Saturday, November 29, 2008
The Legacy Lives On
On Thursday my parents came over and we had a yummy meal together and, of course, played a little cards after dinner.
I am struck more and more by how much my oldest son looks and acts like my father. Now, I love my Dad very much, but their is definitely good and bad in this comparison.
My Dad has never had an opinion that was not expressed. He is very vocal and this can get him into trouble at times. He can also be VERY sarcastic, and if you are not used to this particular form of humor you may get your feeling hurt every once in a while. Our oldest son has many of these same traits. Of course he think his grandpa is fantastically funny and wonderful. They are truly two peas in a pod.
Samantha made a tree with branches out of construction paper and hung it in the window of our dinning room. Everyone traced and cut out a picture of there hand and we were suppose to write what we were thankful for on it and tape it to the tree, thus the hands were the leaves. Here is what it is suppose to look like.
After everyone had completed writing on their leaf we went around the table and told what we were thankful for. Most of us said things like our family, friends, good health, a God who loves us no matter what, good job, food to eat, etc.
This is what my father said: I am thankful I only have 5 grandchildren.
Umm, excuse me, next Thanksgiving you will have a couple more unless something unexpected happens in our adoption process.
So, I said something. I asked what he was going to do when he had a couple more through adoption next year? "Well, then I will be thankful that I only have 7 grandchildren."
You see, my sarcastic father couldn't say what he really meant.
I am thankful for my five grandchildren. That is way to boring. So he had to make it sound like an insult of sorts.
You need thick skin in our family, and I am glad I didn't overreact. My Dad is a very loving person and I have no doubt he will love our new children just as much as the 5 he likes to tease and joke around with right now.
Now, you may be asking, what did Zachary write down? Well, his thankful hand was carefully written to annoy his Dad as much as possible. This is one of Zach's favorite past times.
Zachary wrote: I am thankful for my family. You know, 50 cent, Usher, B-rad, Beyonce, and grandma Oprah. I am also thankful for Barac Obama and Hillary Clinton (she is the hottest chick ever). Lastly, I am thankful for Sarah Palin because she is really Hot too!
When his Dad sent him the red daggers of death across the table he sweetly turned his hands over where you could see what he had actually written. He was thankful for his family and his dog Sydney.
Yes, I'm afraid the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. Lord, help me, please!
I am struck more and more by how much my oldest son looks and acts like my father. Now, I love my Dad very much, but their is definitely good and bad in this comparison.
My Dad has never had an opinion that was not expressed. He is very vocal and this can get him into trouble at times. He can also be VERY sarcastic, and if you are not used to this particular form of humor you may get your feeling hurt every once in a while. Our oldest son has many of these same traits. Of course he think his grandpa is fantastically funny and wonderful. They are truly two peas in a pod.
Samantha made a tree with branches out of construction paper and hung it in the window of our dinning room. Everyone traced and cut out a picture of there hand and we were suppose to write what we were thankful for on it and tape it to the tree, thus the hands were the leaves. Here is what it is suppose to look like.
After everyone had completed writing on their leaf we went around the table and told what we were thankful for. Most of us said things like our family, friends, good health, a God who loves us no matter what, good job, food to eat, etc.
This is what my father said: I am thankful I only have 5 grandchildren.
Umm, excuse me, next Thanksgiving you will have a couple more unless something unexpected happens in our adoption process.
So, I said something. I asked what he was going to do when he had a couple more through adoption next year? "Well, then I will be thankful that I only have 7 grandchildren."
You see, my sarcastic father couldn't say what he really meant.
I am thankful for my five grandchildren. That is way to boring. So he had to make it sound like an insult of sorts.
You need thick skin in our family, and I am glad I didn't overreact. My Dad is a very loving person and I have no doubt he will love our new children just as much as the 5 he likes to tease and joke around with right now.
Now, you may be asking, what did Zachary write down? Well, his thankful hand was carefully written to annoy his Dad as much as possible. This is one of Zach's favorite past times.
Zachary wrote: I am thankful for my family. You know, 50 cent, Usher, B-rad, Beyonce, and grandma Oprah. I am also thankful for Barac Obama and Hillary Clinton (she is the hottest chick ever). Lastly, I am thankful for Sarah Palin because she is really Hot too!
When his Dad sent him the red daggers of death across the table he sweetly turned his hands over where you could see what he had actually written. He was thankful for his family and his dog Sydney.
Yes, I'm afraid the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. Lord, help me, please!
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Thankful
I am thankful for this family I prayed for as a little girl and which God has provided me.
I am thankful my husband has abundant patience and love for me even when I know he doesn't really want to. (I know you might be shocked to find out that some times I am actually an unlovable individual).
I am thankful that I only paid $1.84 a gallon for gas today.
I am thankful that I live in a country where I can go to the grocery store and buy the food I need (and some I don't) to feed my family, and I can be assured the shelves will be abundantly stocked at all times.
I am thankful that my husband has a good job which allows us to have the money to buy groceries, and health insurance, and a home of our very own.
I am thankful that my parents are still living and going strong even though I was there "late baby" being born when my mom was almost 45 years old.
I am thankful that our family will most likely have another family member(s) this time next year with which to share our joys, heartbreaks and love with.
I am thankful for all my bloggy friends which bring such joy to my life and never cease to make me think hard, smile widely or have a good cry over their daily antics and trials.
I am thankful that I do not have an extended family that is feuding or not getting along. We may have our difference's but we are pretty good at agreeing to disagree.
Lastly, I am thankful for my in real life friends who bring me so much joy and love on a daily basis. I love you all very much.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone, enjoy your day!
Labels: holidays
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
A Change In Plans
I wanted to take all of the kids to Disneyland today. They are all decorated for Christmas already and it snows every night after the fire works on main street. Truly magical, and I love it.
I had told the older boys that they didn't have to go to school today so they could go with us. Their Daddy didn't like this very much. He thinks I am way to lenient and let them miss to much school for fun days. He may be right, but I can't resist spending time with them. I love it when we are all together.
So, I broke the news to them that they would be going to school and we would make another trip soon (we have passes) when we could all go together. They were not happy and whined that none of their friends would be at school because everyone was headed out of town for the long weekend. I told them that their Dad was right and I do let them miss to much school. They would have to go.
Hubby and I have very different opinions on this subject. Our kids get excellent grades and are blessed with the ability to breeze through school with very little effort. So, I see no reason why they can't miss a day now and then (like once every six weeks) for a fun family day. He thinks I am teaching them bad habits and if it is a school day they should be in school. Lets just say we agree to disagree. However, in front of our children I support my husbands view, and let them know he is the final authority. Then we go into the bedroom where we talk privately and I plead my case because I am the biggest kid of all and want a day off to go and play. lol.
So, last night the older boys were at the kitchen table sulking while doing their homework. I had to laugh when their younger siblings would tease them that IF THEY were homeschooled they could go on our field trip to Disneyland.
A while later I walked through the room again and noticed they weren't looking quite as sad. I thanked them for being good sports about the whole thing when Zach chimed in that Dad had told them that if they did homework for 90 minutes without complaining they could go with us.
What a softy.
Unfortunately when we woke this morning rain was pouring down outside and we had to change our plans. Instead we are spending the day cooking yummy food for tomorrow, playing games together, arguing as only siblings can, and being happy we are all together.
We have the added bonus of having Hubby home with us. I think he is finally seeing the wisdom in my point of view. No work for him today. Just a day of family fun.
I had told the older boys that they didn't have to go to school today so they could go with us. Their Daddy didn't like this very much. He thinks I am way to lenient and let them miss to much school for fun days. He may be right, but I can't resist spending time with them. I love it when we are all together.
So, I broke the news to them that they would be going to school and we would make another trip soon (we have passes) when we could all go together. They were not happy and whined that none of their friends would be at school because everyone was headed out of town for the long weekend. I told them that their Dad was right and I do let them miss to much school. They would have to go.
Hubby and I have very different opinions on this subject. Our kids get excellent grades and are blessed with the ability to breeze through school with very little effort. So, I see no reason why they can't miss a day now and then (like once every six weeks) for a fun family day. He thinks I am teaching them bad habits and if it is a school day they should be in school. Lets just say we agree to disagree. However, in front of our children I support my husbands view, and let them know he is the final authority. Then we go into the bedroom where we talk privately and I plead my case because I am the biggest kid of all and want a day off to go and play. lol.
So, last night the older boys were at the kitchen table sulking while doing their homework. I had to laugh when their younger siblings would tease them that IF THEY were homeschooled they could go on our field trip to Disneyland.
A while later I walked through the room again and noticed they weren't looking quite as sad. I thanked them for being good sports about the whole thing when Zach chimed in that Dad had told them that if they did homework for 90 minutes without complaining they could go with us.
What a softy.
Unfortunately when we woke this morning rain was pouring down outside and we had to change our plans. Instead we are spending the day cooking yummy food for tomorrow, playing games together, arguing as only siblings can, and being happy we are all together.
We have the added bonus of having Hubby home with us. I think he is finally seeing the wisdom in my point of view. No work for him today. Just a day of family fun.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
I Love You, You Love Me, Were a Happy Family....
We pulled out the Christmas boxes yesterday. The kids found the Christmas movies I had packed away last January 1st.
Paige was excited by the large stack of new movies she had no memory of. She quickly picked up the Barney movie "Waiting For Santa". This movie has been much loved by all of our older children. They all went through their Barney stage and the Big Purple Dinosaur was very popular in our household with all but one person.
That person would be the Daddy who lives in this house.
He was very thankful his youngest daughter had skipped Barney and preferred much more sophisticated cartoons like Sponge Bob and The Wonder Pets.
He had to catch a flight yesterday morning at 6:00 a.m. to Arizona for an early morning meeting and flew home immediately after. He walked in the door at 8:30 last night understandably hungry and tired. Paige greeted him enthusiastically at the door where she immediately took his hand and wanted to show him what she was doing in the play room. He was met with the sound of the purple dinosaur singing Christmas songs on our television screen.
We still have this movie, he asked me, with a rather irritated look in his eyes?
Yes, honey, I responded. I couldn't get rid of it, it is part of our Christmas tradition.
How many times has she watched it today, he asked?
Four times.
Oh.
Then an older child piped in with these words.
She really likes Barney Dad so were going to let her watch him tomorrow morning on TV. We already looked up the times.
I'm sorry honey. Maybe her Barney phase won't be as long as the other kids.
We can only hope. Sigh.
Paige was excited by the large stack of new movies she had no memory of. She quickly picked up the Barney movie "Waiting For Santa". This movie has been much loved by all of our older children. They all went through their Barney stage and the Big Purple Dinosaur was very popular in our household with all but one person.
That person would be the Daddy who lives in this house.
He was very thankful his youngest daughter had skipped Barney and preferred much more sophisticated cartoons like Sponge Bob and The Wonder Pets.
He had to catch a flight yesterday morning at 6:00 a.m. to Arizona for an early morning meeting and flew home immediately after. He walked in the door at 8:30 last night understandably hungry and tired. Paige greeted him enthusiastically at the door where she immediately took his hand and wanted to show him what she was doing in the play room. He was met with the sound of the purple dinosaur singing Christmas songs on our television screen.
We still have this movie, he asked me, with a rather irritated look in his eyes?
Yes, honey, I responded. I couldn't get rid of it, it is part of our Christmas tradition.
How many times has she watched it today, he asked?
Four times.
Oh.
Then an older child piped in with these words.
She really likes Barney Dad so were going to let her watch him tomorrow morning on TV. We already looked up the times.
I'm sorry honey. Maybe her Barney phase won't be as long as the other kids.
We can only hope. Sigh.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Our Little Miracle
Well, I didn't get the Christmas decorations up this past weekend. I did get a lot of cleaning done so I am happy about that.
Because I am the principal of our little home school I have declared this week Fall Vacation. We are not going to do school (as in book work) we are going to learn all about what it takes to get the house ready for the holidays. The kids are actually excited about this. Paige is off of school until the first of the year (this is her off track time) and since she has been asking to put up the Christmas tree since last July we are going to make her very happy today when we tell her what we are going to do.
Speaking of Paige, there are things I have been meaning to share with you about her progress in school but haven't quite been able to find the words to do so. The change in her over the past six months has been nothing short of a miracle. A year ago she was speaking in one or two word sentences, or not speaking at all. She seemed disconnected and not really present in the moment. All of this has changed.
I don't think I fully understood how much growth she had experienced until my sister came back into town after a six month absence. She could not believe the change, how mature she was, how much she talked, how ALIVE AND PRESENT in the moment she seemed.
It truly is a miracle.
I have prayed and cried over this child for several years. Ringing my hands in worry. The low point came 18 months ago when we were told she was Autistic. Thankfully we had knowledgeable friends and family around us who did not believe that for one minute.
This past week they had their first award ceremony for the entire school. Her special ed Kindergarten class was included and Paige received the Super Star Student of the Month Award. When I saw her proudly walk up on stage to accept her little certificate I almost burst out bawling. She received all Outstandings on her report card (she has a modified curriculum), she has learned the first sight word list, can write her name, knows all her colors and shapes (even the hard ones) and is just soaring in so many other areas. Her teachers are so pleased and so are her Dad and I.
None of us understands this sudden and amazing change in her behavior. She still has speech and language difficulties, however, she makes progress each and every day and her vocabulary has grown by leaps and bounds. My heart swells with happiness when I think about it.
So, I wanted to thank God publicly on this little old blog. I know his hand is behind all of this. It truly is a miracle and I am so thankful for this answer to prayer. I know He has great things planned for her life, you can just tell by the twinkle in her eyes. She may never be "perfect" by the worlds standards but to me she is the most precious gift I have ever received. Thank You, Heavenly Father, for entrusting me with this very special little girl and for letting me be her mommy. Amen.
Because I am the principal of our little home school I have declared this week Fall Vacation. We are not going to do school (as in book work) we are going to learn all about what it takes to get the house ready for the holidays. The kids are actually excited about this. Paige is off of school until the first of the year (this is her off track time) and since she has been asking to put up the Christmas tree since last July we are going to make her very happy today when we tell her what we are going to do.
Speaking of Paige, there are things I have been meaning to share with you about her progress in school but haven't quite been able to find the words to do so. The change in her over the past six months has been nothing short of a miracle. A year ago she was speaking in one or two word sentences, or not speaking at all. She seemed disconnected and not really present in the moment. All of this has changed.
I don't think I fully understood how much growth she had experienced until my sister came back into town after a six month absence. She could not believe the change, how mature she was, how much she talked, how ALIVE AND PRESENT in the moment she seemed.
It truly is a miracle.
I have prayed and cried over this child for several years. Ringing my hands in worry. The low point came 18 months ago when we were told she was Autistic. Thankfully we had knowledgeable friends and family around us who did not believe that for one minute.
This past week they had their first award ceremony for the entire school. Her special ed Kindergarten class was included and Paige received the Super Star Student of the Month Award. When I saw her proudly walk up on stage to accept her little certificate I almost burst out bawling. She received all Outstandings on her report card (she has a modified curriculum), she has learned the first sight word list, can write her name, knows all her colors and shapes (even the hard ones) and is just soaring in so many other areas. Her teachers are so pleased and so are her Dad and I.
None of us understands this sudden and amazing change in her behavior. She still has speech and language difficulties, however, she makes progress each and every day and her vocabulary has grown by leaps and bounds. My heart swells with happiness when I think about it.
So, I wanted to thank God publicly on this little old blog. I know his hand is behind all of this. It truly is a miracle and I am so thankful for this answer to prayer. I know He has great things planned for her life, you can just tell by the twinkle in her eyes. She may never be "perfect" by the worlds standards but to me she is the most precious gift I have ever received. Thank You, Heavenly Father, for entrusting me with this very special little girl and for letting me be her mommy. Amen.
Labels: christmas, Developmental Delays
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Pondering
I'm thinking about pulling out the Christmas boxes today and decorating the house so it will be done before Thanksgiving. I would love to have everything up and ready to go without the worry of it all.
I'm feeling in the mood to put on some music and start decorating my mantle. I am kind of amazed by this fact given it is still 90 degree's outside here. Can we get a little cool weather, please?
Do any of you decorate this early? My family thinks I am crazy.
I'm feeling in the mood to put on some music and start decorating my mantle. I am kind of amazed by this fact given it is still 90 degree's outside here. Can we get a little cool weather, please?
Do any of you decorate this early? My family thinks I am crazy.
Labels: christmas
Thursday, November 20, 2008
When Different Personalities Collide
I promised you I would post about the trying times we have had these past few months with homeschooling. I probably should have skipped that promise as today was one of the most challenging days yet. Maybe I jinxed myself?
When I decided to home school I read this book. I found out that Samantha was a Perfect Paula type of learner. Very organized, likes a lot of structure, and could work independently for hours on end. He brother Garrett, however, is a Wiggly Willy. He is just about as opposite of a Perfect Paula as you can get. He has a short attention span, does not like book work, and prefers to be outside looking for bugs instead of looking up research information in an encyclopedia.
I knew if I wanted to do most of their subjects together this would be a challenge, and let me tell you, at times this has been an understatement.
Here is a recap of today:
1. Breakfast
2. Garrett practiced piano while Samantha did her math online.
3. Garrett is suppose to now be doing his math online as Samantha works in her math book doing problems. Garrett instead decides he needs a break and starts bouncing his basketball on the wood floors to annoy his "Perfect Paula" sister who is trying to finish her work.
4. Samantha starts screaming that Garrett isn't letting her do her work. I am upstairs putting laundry in as I feel I shouldn't have to remind Garrett 100 times a day what it is he is suppose to be doing.
5. I come downstairs, restore order, and watch him start his math. Which he does for three minutes before bouncing the ball again.
6. After about 40 minutes of this I send Garrett upstairs with a bucket of cleaning supplies and tell him to clean the boys bathroom to help get all his excess energy out of his system. He starts crying and yelling that I am so unfair and if I really loved him I would let him go outside and play basketball instead of doing school.
7. During this time Samantha starts to cry because she REALLY wants to do her math and can't concentrate with all the yelling and hollering going on.
This all took place in the first hour of our school day today. Yep, good times, good times.
When I get up early and get all my chores done before the kids get up our school day goes so much better. Although I can give Samantha something to do and she is happy to work alone, Garrett is not. If I stay in the room with him for the first 90 minutes and encourage him along we get a lot done. When I try and go off and do some of "my work" while he is suppose to be doing school I run into problems.
Today I thought I might have to call social services to protect my child from his own mother. I was almost at the end of my rope with him not listening. However, I find that I am not the one listening. I know what he needs and I need to provide it. When I don't all heck breaks lose.
The day before yesterday was a good day. This was our schedule that day;
1. Bible reading and prayer (about 10 minutes)
2. One child practices piano while the other is on computer listening to math lessons. Then they switch. I am also downstairs grading papers while this is going on. (45 minutes total)
3. We have a snack and we read a chapter together in our Zoology book and made a field guide to record all of our finding when we go to the park on Friday. I let them listen to an Adventure in Odyssey radio broadcast while they are working on their field guide. (60 minutes)
4. They go off and do their silent reading (Garrett loves this and can read for hours just like his sister) while I make lunch and check emails (OK, read a few blogs, you caught me)
5. Lunch ( I give them an hour break, they ate and then went out and played basketball together, very sweet)
6. What we do after lunch changes depending on what day it is. We either do History/Geography, or a new lesson I just started on writing and spelling. We also go to the library one day a week and they spend an hour with the piano teacher one day each week also. Our school day ends about 2:15 when I have to go and pick up Paige,
Now, obviously this is just a guide. What I love about homeschooling is you can mix things up a little. Sometimes we are crazy and do math in the afternoon. lol.
So, I guess what I am trying to say is that when I try and deviate from what I know works we have problems. That is when we have the meltdowns and the days when mom feels like she has to go in the bathroom, close the door, and scream at the top of her lungs for a few minutes.
When I sit down with them, we work together, get it done, give encouragement, we have a good day. When mom isn't really present in the moment, not so good. I am learning.
I would be interested to hear from any of you who have kids with completely different learning styles. Have you found ways to blend them together some how? How do you make it work?
p.s. Our wonderful moments by far out weigh these bad moments. However, I didn't want you to think it has been all peaches and roses. It's hard....but oh so worth it. I wouldn't change the fact they are home with me for anything! I really am loving it (and Garrett is getting really good at cleaning the bathroom).
When I decided to home school I read this book. I found out that Samantha was a Perfect Paula type of learner. Very organized, likes a lot of structure, and could work independently for hours on end. He brother Garrett, however, is a Wiggly Willy. He is just about as opposite of a Perfect Paula as you can get. He has a short attention span, does not like book work, and prefers to be outside looking for bugs instead of looking up research information in an encyclopedia.
I knew if I wanted to do most of their subjects together this would be a challenge, and let me tell you, at times this has been an understatement.
Here is a recap of today:
1. Breakfast
2. Garrett practiced piano while Samantha did her math online.
3. Garrett is suppose to now be doing his math online as Samantha works in her math book doing problems. Garrett instead decides he needs a break and starts bouncing his basketball on the wood floors to annoy his "Perfect Paula" sister who is trying to finish her work.
4. Samantha starts screaming that Garrett isn't letting her do her work. I am upstairs putting laundry in as I feel I shouldn't have to remind Garrett 100 times a day what it is he is suppose to be doing.
5. I come downstairs, restore order, and watch him start his math. Which he does for three minutes before bouncing the ball again.
6. After about 40 minutes of this I send Garrett upstairs with a bucket of cleaning supplies and tell him to clean the boys bathroom to help get all his excess energy out of his system. He starts crying and yelling that I am so unfair and if I really loved him I would let him go outside and play basketball instead of doing school.
7. During this time Samantha starts to cry because she REALLY wants to do her math and can't concentrate with all the yelling and hollering going on.
This all took place in the first hour of our school day today. Yep, good times, good times.
When I get up early and get all my chores done before the kids get up our school day goes so much better. Although I can give Samantha something to do and she is happy to work alone, Garrett is not. If I stay in the room with him for the first 90 minutes and encourage him along we get a lot done. When I try and go off and do some of "my work" while he is suppose to be doing school I run into problems.
Today I thought I might have to call social services to protect my child from his own mother. I was almost at the end of my rope with him not listening. However, I find that I am not the one listening. I know what he needs and I need to provide it. When I don't all heck breaks lose.
The day before yesterday was a good day. This was our schedule that day;
1. Bible reading and prayer (about 10 minutes)
2. One child practices piano while the other is on computer listening to math lessons. Then they switch. I am also downstairs grading papers while this is going on. (45 minutes total)
3. We have a snack and we read a chapter together in our Zoology book and made a field guide to record all of our finding when we go to the park on Friday. I let them listen to an Adventure in Odyssey radio broadcast while they are working on their field guide. (60 minutes)
4. They go off and do their silent reading (Garrett loves this and can read for hours just like his sister) while I make lunch and check emails (OK, read a few blogs, you caught me)
5. Lunch ( I give them an hour break, they ate and then went out and played basketball together, very sweet)
6. What we do after lunch changes depending on what day it is. We either do History/Geography, or a new lesson I just started on writing and spelling. We also go to the library one day a week and they spend an hour with the piano teacher one day each week also. Our school day ends about 2:15 when I have to go and pick up Paige,
Now, obviously this is just a guide. What I love about homeschooling is you can mix things up a little. Sometimes we are crazy and do math in the afternoon. lol.
So, I guess what I am trying to say is that when I try and deviate from what I know works we have problems. That is when we have the meltdowns and the days when mom feels like she has to go in the bathroom, close the door, and scream at the top of her lungs for a few minutes.
When I sit down with them, we work together, get it done, give encouragement, we have a good day. When mom isn't really present in the moment, not so good. I am learning.
I would be interested to hear from any of you who have kids with completely different learning styles. Have you found ways to blend them together some how? How do you make it work?
p.s. Our wonderful moments by far out weigh these bad moments. However, I didn't want you to think it has been all peaches and roses. It's hard....but oh so worth it. I wouldn't change the fact they are home with me for anything! I really am loving it (and Garrett is getting really good at cleaning the bathroom).
Labels: Home Schooling
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
The Blessings of Home Schooling
I'm happy. The kids are happy. Life is good.
I cannot express to you enough how thrilled I am that I stepped out in faith this school year and kept Samantha and Garrett home. God has been present Every. Step. Of. The. Way. and I have never felt closer to him.
I knew the transition to homeschooling would be a hard one for our kids. The public school is all they have ever known. I was so worried they would feel isolated and angry and it would take months for them to come out of their funk.
Well, only 10 weeks into our adventure and I feel like we have all settled in nicely. The kids love their schedule of not starting school until later in the morning and the fact that we don't have to do the morning rush anymore. God has sent them some homeschooling friends who live very near to us that they have already made wonderful bonds and memories with.
I was saying something to Samantha yesterday about how she wouldn't have had all these wonderful experiences if she was still going to "normal school" and she ACTUALLY agreed with me. God is good.
I wanted to write this all down and share it with you as encouragement. If you feel God tapping you on the shoulder in this area I want to encourage you that if I can do it, truly anyone can. My kids are total social butterflies and I was a little concerned about the isolation. However, we have not experienced any isolation. Just the joy of spending time together, learning new things, making new friends, and overall having a great time learning together. I would truly love to have our high school kids home with us also. I am working on that one.
If your kids are in public school I am in no way telling you to take them out. I am not the homeschool police. My kids had a good experience in public school and they were always blessed with Christian teachers.
This post is for those of you who have been thinking about it for a while. You know who you are. I was one of you not to long ago. I loved reading blogs written by homeschooling families and soaked in all the information they were giving out. If you have been feeling lead to homeschool then go ahead and take the leap of faith. I totally believe it is a decision you will not regret.
Garrett started playing basketball for our local Christian homeschool sports organization last week. He had a great time and it was good for him to see all those kids that were homeschooled just like him. Samantha didn't want to play. She is really not a sports girl and has felt kind of discouraged whenever she has tried organized sports. Well, yesterday one of the mom's emailed me that they were starting a new 12 and under girls team and would Samantha want to play? She really didn't want to but I encouraged her to give it a try. Last night was her first practice and she had a blast! All the girls were so nice to her, encouraging her, helping her learn how to play. They made her feel comfortable, like one of them, and I could tell by the spring in her step that she was really happy she had tried.
My kids have had experience after experience like this in the past 10 weeks. I have no doubt God has orchestrated it all.
Tomorrow I will share some of our not so pleasant memories over the past 10 weeks. The good has definitely outweighed the bad, but in the interest of keeping it real, I will share some of the bad with you also.
I'm off to make breakfast, have blessed day my friends.
p.s. Thanks to all of you who prayed for the wildfires to be put out. Our town is no longer in danger and for that I am very thankful. The weather is still in the 90's here so some cooler weather would definitely be appreciated by the fire crews that work this area. Thanks again for all your kind words and concern.
I cannot express to you enough how thrilled I am that I stepped out in faith this school year and kept Samantha and Garrett home. God has been present Every. Step. Of. The. Way. and I have never felt closer to him.
I knew the transition to homeschooling would be a hard one for our kids. The public school is all they have ever known. I was so worried they would feel isolated and angry and it would take months for them to come out of their funk.
Well, only 10 weeks into our adventure and I feel like we have all settled in nicely. The kids love their schedule of not starting school until later in the morning and the fact that we don't have to do the morning rush anymore. God has sent them some homeschooling friends who live very near to us that they have already made wonderful bonds and memories with.
I was saying something to Samantha yesterday about how she wouldn't have had all these wonderful experiences if she was still going to "normal school" and she ACTUALLY agreed with me. God is good.
I wanted to write this all down and share it with you as encouragement. If you feel God tapping you on the shoulder in this area I want to encourage you that if I can do it, truly anyone can. My kids are total social butterflies and I was a little concerned about the isolation. However, we have not experienced any isolation. Just the joy of spending time together, learning new things, making new friends, and overall having a great time learning together. I would truly love to have our high school kids home with us also. I am working on that one.
If your kids are in public school I am in no way telling you to take them out. I am not the homeschool police. My kids had a good experience in public school and they were always blessed with Christian teachers.
This post is for those of you who have been thinking about it for a while. You know who you are. I was one of you not to long ago. I loved reading blogs written by homeschooling families and soaked in all the information they were giving out. If you have been feeling lead to homeschool then go ahead and take the leap of faith. I totally believe it is a decision you will not regret.
Garrett started playing basketball for our local Christian homeschool sports organization last week. He had a great time and it was good for him to see all those kids that were homeschooled just like him. Samantha didn't want to play. She is really not a sports girl and has felt kind of discouraged whenever she has tried organized sports. Well, yesterday one of the mom's emailed me that they were starting a new 12 and under girls team and would Samantha want to play? She really didn't want to but I encouraged her to give it a try. Last night was her first practice and she had a blast! All the girls were so nice to her, encouraging her, helping her learn how to play. They made her feel comfortable, like one of them, and I could tell by the spring in her step that she was really happy she had tried.
My kids have had experience after experience like this in the past 10 weeks. I have no doubt God has orchestrated it all.
Tomorrow I will share some of our not so pleasant memories over the past 10 weeks. The good has definitely outweighed the bad, but in the interest of keeping it real, I will share some of the bad with you also.
I'm off to make breakfast, have blessed day my friends.
p.s. Thanks to all of you who prayed for the wildfires to be put out. Our town is no longer in danger and for that I am very thankful. The weather is still in the 90's here so some cooler weather would definitely be appreciated by the fire crews that work this area. Thanks again for all your kind words and concern.
Labels: Home Schooling
Saturday, November 15, 2008
15
At last count 15 houses have burned to the ground in our town.
The fires are still blazing. There are not enough firemen and crews to go around.
I am sure they are feeling as frustrated and helpless as the rest of us.
The fire started this morning around 9:00 a.m. not to far from our house.
The winds were strong and heading to the west which quickly sent the fire into the other neighboring towns where it jumped the freeway this afternoon and has created such destruction it is almost unbelievable.
If the winds had been blowing to the East this would be a very different post because my house could have looked like this one.
or this one.......
While I am feeling lucky and blessed, I am also feeling like a bad person for being thankful that someone else's house has burned down instead of my own. I really didn't want that either. I just wish the heavens would open up and rain would pour down to help out these poor tired fire crews.Those of us who don't live in the heavily wooded area's have always felt safe. Yes, fires raged all around us but we didn't have a lot of brush to burn and we had tile roofs. Our tile roofs would surely save us.
Wrong.
All it takes is for the embers to get underneath the eaves and take hold and your house will burn from the inside out. That is what is happening tonight.
As we drove home from the mountains this evening the night sky was lit up and you could see the flames still burning brightly. Our children asked tentatively if our house was OK, wanting reassurance that their lives had not been turned upside down in a matter of hours.
I wonder how many children can't say that tonight? As of this writing more than 100 houses have burned to the ground.
Labels: California Wildfires
My Gas Tank, Home Schooling & The Fires
First off, thanks to all of you who left comments about the gas pumping. My family and I had fun reading them and my boys learned about different ways to be a servant to their spouse. I must say that I was surprised to see how many of you have husbands that take care of getting your gas for you. I think it is great. My son told me he would get my gas for me if I wanted him to. Ahhh. Melt my heart.
Secondly, I have been so blessed this week with wonderful new friends. Our home school group went to a candy factory on Thursday night to watch them make home made candy canes. The owners were Christian and they shared their testimony with the kids. I also met some more home school mom's that I just loved, I was so excited. Last night six of us met at the Borders Book Store for coffee and fellowship. I spent two hours with these very experienced homeschooling moms having my tank filled up and getting all kinds of words of wisdom. The really fun part was that they all have different philosophies and styles and yet I did not detect any judging on each others parts. Just encouragement. IT. WAS. FABULOUS.
God has been so good to me throughout this journey. I was really scared and unsure at first, but he keeps sending me people to encourage me and walk along side our family. He has made my heart happy and secure. I am so very very thankful.
Lastly, you may have already heard, but our State is on fire again. We have several family members who's home's could be in danger from these fires. Please pray for the safety of the men and women battling these fierce blazes and the wind (oh my, the wind, you just wouldn't believe it), and pray that they are able to get the fires under control as soon as possible. Hundreds of people have already lost their homes, it is so very very sad.
Have a great Saturday my friends. Our family is headed up to my sisters cabin in the mountains for a day of fun. Anyone else have a family fun day planned?
Secondly, I have been so blessed this week with wonderful new friends. Our home school group went to a candy factory on Thursday night to watch them make home made candy canes. The owners were Christian and they shared their testimony with the kids. I also met some more home school mom's that I just loved, I was so excited. Last night six of us met at the Borders Book Store for coffee and fellowship. I spent two hours with these very experienced homeschooling moms having my tank filled up and getting all kinds of words of wisdom. The really fun part was that they all have different philosophies and styles and yet I did not detect any judging on each others parts. Just encouragement. IT. WAS. FABULOUS.
God has been so good to me throughout this journey. I was really scared and unsure at first, but he keeps sending me people to encourage me and walk along side our family. He has made my heart happy and secure. I am so very very thankful.
Lastly, you may have already heard, but our State is on fire again. We have several family members who's home's could be in danger from these fires. Please pray for the safety of the men and women battling these fierce blazes and the wind (oh my, the wind, you just wouldn't believe it), and pray that they are able to get the fires under control as soon as possible. Hundreds of people have already lost their homes, it is so very very sad.
Have a great Saturday my friends. Our family is headed up to my sisters cabin in the mountains for a day of fun. Anyone else have a family fun day planned?
Labels: getting away from it all, Home Schooling, Mom Stuff
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Am I A Wimpy Wife?
We had a conversation tonight in our family that made me wonder how things work in your families?
When I turned 16 my parents bought me a car. My Dad would fill up my tank once a week. I never asked, he just did it. He didn't think a girl should have to pump her own gas. This was a perk I greatly enjoyed.
When I was 18 I met my husband. One day we were out driving and I needed gas. I pulled into the gas station and he jumped out to pump my gas for me. Later I told him it was a good thing he was with me because I had no idea how to pump gas.
I could tell by the look on his face that he thought this was ridiculous.
Needless to say I have pumped my own gas for the past 23 years, unless we are in the car together and then wonderful husband does it.
I find myself, at times, missing the days when my father would just take care of this for me. My mom HAS NEVER pumped gas.
Now, lest you think my husband an ogre, he does pamper me in other ways. He lets me sleep in on Saturday mornings, brings me coffee just the way I like it, and lets me escape for a little time alone whenever I feel the need. He is a great guy.
He just doesn't pump my gas.
I was telling my sons that there is something very romantic about Grandpa making sure Grandma's gas tank is always full and ready to go. They of course rolled their eyes at me. I was trying to explain to them, that while I am all about being self sufficient, it is very nice to feel so nurtured and loved. That Grandpa is showing his love by taking care of this little detail in our lives. It brings him joy.
My boys were amazed that a girl would actually care about something as "stupid" as this. They can understand about buying flowers, and opening doors, but pumping gas.....come on.
I was trying to explain to them that it was about having a servants heart and I shared the Bible Verse to them about how a man is to love his wife as Christ loved the church.
They still were not convinced.
So ladies, this is your chance. Lay it on me. Would you like for your husband to take care of this mundane chore for you, or perhaps he already does? Let me know. My boys and I have a little wager going on this one, and it involves chores, so I am hoping to be the big winner.
Not that I'm trying to influence you in any way. I would NEVER do anything like that. Hee Hee.
When I turned 16 my parents bought me a car. My Dad would fill up my tank once a week. I never asked, he just did it. He didn't think a girl should have to pump her own gas. This was a perk I greatly enjoyed.
When I was 18 I met my husband. One day we were out driving and I needed gas. I pulled into the gas station and he jumped out to pump my gas for me. Later I told him it was a good thing he was with me because I had no idea how to pump gas.
I could tell by the look on his face that he thought this was ridiculous.
Needless to say I have pumped my own gas for the past 23 years, unless we are in the car together and then wonderful husband does it.
I find myself, at times, missing the days when my father would just take care of this for me. My mom HAS NEVER pumped gas.
Now, lest you think my husband an ogre, he does pamper me in other ways. He lets me sleep in on Saturday mornings, brings me coffee just the way I like it, and lets me escape for a little time alone whenever I feel the need. He is a great guy.
He just doesn't pump my gas.
I was telling my sons that there is something very romantic about Grandpa making sure Grandma's gas tank is always full and ready to go. They of course rolled their eyes at me. I was trying to explain to them, that while I am all about being self sufficient, it is very nice to feel so nurtured and loved. That Grandpa is showing his love by taking care of this little detail in our lives. It brings him joy.
My boys were amazed that a girl would actually care about something as "stupid" as this. They can understand about buying flowers, and opening doors, but pumping gas.....come on.
I was trying to explain to them that it was about having a servants heart and I shared the Bible Verse to them about how a man is to love his wife as Christ loved the church.
They still were not convinced.
So ladies, this is your chance. Lay it on me. Would you like for your husband to take care of this mundane chore for you, or perhaps he already does? Let me know. My boys and I have a little wager going on this one, and it involves chores, so I am hoping to be the big winner.
Not that I'm trying to influence you in any way. I would NEVER do anything like that. Hee Hee.
Labels: Mom Stuff
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
The Funny Things Kids Say
Yesterday afternoon I had to run to Sam's Club and pick up a few things before the party last night. Paige enthusiastically spoke up and said she wanted to go to Sam's Club with me, so she did.
Unfortunately, Sam's Club wasn't all she had hoped for. Here is our conversation in the car.
Paige: I can't wait to get to Sam's house to play with him.
Me: Do you mean Sam's Club?
Paige: Yes, Sam's house. He has a Club House were going to play in together.
Clearly, this child was very confused. Poor thing, you should have seen her face when we drove up and parked.
"You mean were going to the grocery store" she asked unhappily.
I almost felt a little guilty for laughing.
***********************************************************************************
My mom's birthday party was a huge success. Lest you think I am unkind please understand that I am not mad at the person who forgot to order the food. I was annoyed, but totally over it now.
The food was great and the company even better.
My sisters in-laws came with her and her husband. My mom was so excited. She would rather play cards than do almost anything and she knew once she saw Bill and Shirley that there was some card playing in her future.
A few mad games of Pinochle followed and the light in my mom's eyes made me so incredibly happy.
I have some wonderful picutes to share but I still havn't gotten a new charger for the laptop so they will have to wait.
You will not believe how incredible my mom looks for being 89 years young!!!
Unfortunately, Sam's Club wasn't all she had hoped for. Here is our conversation in the car.
Paige: I can't wait to get to Sam's house to play with him.
Me: Do you mean Sam's Club?
Paige: Yes, Sam's house. He has a Club House were going to play in together.
Clearly, this child was very confused. Poor thing, you should have seen her face when we drove up and parked.
"You mean were going to the grocery store" she asked unhappily.
I almost felt a little guilty for laughing.
***********************************************************************************
My mom's birthday party was a huge success. Lest you think I am unkind please understand that I am not mad at the person who forgot to order the food. I was annoyed, but totally over it now.
The food was great and the company even better.
My sisters in-laws came with her and her husband. My mom was so excited. She would rather play cards than do almost anything and she knew once she saw Bill and Shirley that there was some card playing in her future.
A few mad games of Pinochle followed and the light in my mom's eyes made me so incredibly happy.
I have some wonderful picutes to share but I still havn't gotten a new charger for the laptop so they will have to wait.
You will not believe how incredible my mom looks for being 89 years young!!!
Monday, November 10, 2008
Why Sometimes It Is Just Easier To Do It Yourself
Today we are having my mom's 89th birthday party at our house. We will be having about 20 people over for dinner.
My niece had offered to split the cost of ordering Mexican food from this moderately priced restaurant so I wouldn't have to cook. I really didn't mind cooking, but it sounded nice to not have to worry about it. I would have spent about the same at the market on food as it was costing for us to cater the dinner so I was really happy about that.
Knowing I didn't really have any prep work to do this past weekend for the party I happily cleaned out the cupboards of my kitchen. Yesterday afternoon my niece calls to tell me there is a problem. The restaurant requires 24 hour notice for catering and when she went to call them yesterday she discovered they were closed on Sunday.
Why she waited until the day before I have no idea.
So, yesterday at 3:00 p.m. I stood in my kitchen, where I had begun cleaning out another cupboard, frantically trying to figure out what I was going to feed all these people? I was not happy.
We decided to have another Mexican restaurant cater the dinner. I just didn't have the energy to plan a menu and go shopping last night.
Of course, this will cost us twice as much as the original restaurant.
I hate to feel this way, but this is why I don't like to let others take care of details for me. It seems like I am always trying to clean up others messes. Maybe it is just the control freak inside of me.
Either way, we will have a nice dinner tonight, and no matter how much it costs my wonderful mom is worth it.
However, next time I will be calling the caterer myself.
My niece had offered to split the cost of ordering Mexican food from this moderately priced restaurant so I wouldn't have to cook. I really didn't mind cooking, but it sounded nice to not have to worry about it. I would have spent about the same at the market on food as it was costing for us to cater the dinner so I was really happy about that.
Knowing I didn't really have any prep work to do this past weekend for the party I happily cleaned out the cupboards of my kitchen. Yesterday afternoon my niece calls to tell me there is a problem. The restaurant requires 24 hour notice for catering and when she went to call them yesterday she discovered they were closed on Sunday.
Why she waited until the day before I have no idea.
So, yesterday at 3:00 p.m. I stood in my kitchen, where I had begun cleaning out another cupboard, frantically trying to figure out what I was going to feed all these people? I was not happy.
We decided to have another Mexican restaurant cater the dinner. I just didn't have the energy to plan a menu and go shopping last night.
Of course, this will cost us twice as much as the original restaurant.
I hate to feel this way, but this is why I don't like to let others take care of details for me. It seems like I am always trying to clean up others messes. Maybe it is just the control freak inside of me.
Either way, we will have a nice dinner tonight, and no matter how much it costs my wonderful mom is worth it.
However, next time I will be calling the caterer myself.
Saturday, November 08, 2008
Nesting
I think I am nesting.
I cleaned out about 3/4 of my kitchen cupboards. I moved things around. I scrubbed out all the crumbs, and then put it all back.
No one can find anything because I moved the food pantry over to the other side, and then moved the glassware and dinner dishes into the food pantry.
They are rolling their eyes at me tonight.
I figure if it takes six months to get a referral my house may be the cleanest it has ever been by the time we bring our little ones home.
I'm hoping I stay this motivated, and my energy doesn't give out.
What did you all do today?
I cleaned out about 3/4 of my kitchen cupboards. I moved things around. I scrubbed out all the crumbs, and then put it all back.
No one can find anything because I moved the food pantry over to the other side, and then moved the glassware and dinner dishes into the food pantry.
They are rolling their eyes at me tonight.
I figure if it takes six months to get a referral my house may be the cleanest it has ever been by the time we bring our little ones home.
I'm hoping I stay this motivated, and my energy doesn't give out.
What did you all do today?
Friday, November 07, 2008
Mother Of The Year
Half an hour ago Paige (5) came to me saying "Mom, I am really hungry".
Really, I thought? She usually doesn't want anything to eat until around 10:00 a.m..
I thought about what she had for dinner last night. I couldn't remember feeding her.
I was shocked to realize that I had FORGOTTEN TO FEED MY CHILD DINNER.
No wonder she was hungry.
Our evening was kind of off because we had a fellow homeschooling family over for a few hours. They left about 6:00 p.m.. I had made dinner in the crock pot and everyone just served themselves. The boys were watching a movie in the playroom together and Samantha and I watched the Dancing With The Stars Results Show we had taped the night before.
In this change of routine no one fed the five year old.
I have no idea what she was doing or why she didn't ask for food.
Still, I should have realized.
I am feeling like an awful mother this morning.
Please tell me one of you has done something like this at one time or another. Please.
Really, I thought? She usually doesn't want anything to eat until around 10:00 a.m..
I thought about what she had for dinner last night. I couldn't remember feeding her.
I was shocked to realize that I had FORGOTTEN TO FEED MY CHILD DINNER.
No wonder she was hungry.
Our evening was kind of off because we had a fellow homeschooling family over for a few hours. They left about 6:00 p.m.. I had made dinner in the crock pot and everyone just served themselves. The boys were watching a movie in the playroom together and Samantha and I watched the Dancing With The Stars Results Show we had taped the night before.
In this change of routine no one fed the five year old.
I have no idea what she was doing or why she didn't ask for food.
Still, I should have realized.
I am feeling like an awful mother this morning.
Please tell me one of you has done something like this at one time or another. Please.
Labels: Mom Stuff
Thursday, November 06, 2008
The Happiest Place On Earth
Yesterday Samantha and I had a hair appointment in the early afternoon. We got very little school done in the morning and then headed off to our appointment. Some days it seems like we get so much done, and others not so much. I guess it all evens out in the end.
Anyway, after our hair appointments it was already 1:30 so we decided to go get Paige out of school a little early and spend the rest of the day at Disneyland.
This is one of my favorite things about homeschooling, I love how spontaneous your life can become. I'm trying to finagle a way to buy a RV so we can take off on trips and go explore when ever we want to. That, however, will not be happening until after we pay for our adoption.
Speaking of our upcoming adoption.....the referrals seems to be really pouring in the last few weeks. I'm pretty sure we won't get a referral until after the first of the year but it is really exciting to celebrate with all the other families.
I have been having some of the "normal" anxiety and doubts about this adoption lately. Will I feel an immediate connection to these children like I did my biological children? What will they think of me? Will they bond with there new siblings? I have been reading a lot and know all of these questions are normal. Ninety percent of the time I am excited and can't wait, and then there is the other ten percent when I worry and fret.
When I was pregnant with the other children I always had crazy dreams about my delivery. They were always awful. I would deliver and the doctor would hand me my baby. The baby was always a puppy or rabbit, etc. I was always so upset, insisting THIS WAS NOT MY BABY, but the people around me would insist it was and coo over how cute our new child was. I would wake up in a panic, crying and upset. This happened all five times I have had a baby.
Thankfully, each time I was handed an actual baby and not some furry creature after delivery.
The other night I was laying in bed with my doubts and fears, praying to God for them to go away. I drifted off to sleep and began to dream. Our entire family was in Ethiopia to pick up our little girl. We were all excited and sitting in a little room waiting for them to bring her in. A woman dressed like a nurse came in with this cute little bundle in her arms. She handed her to me. When I drew the blanket back there was a MONKEY inside. Dave and all the kids started oohing and ahhing over this cute monkey and I of course threw a fit and wanted to know where my daughter was. They all thought I was crazy and were so happy with there new little sister, I was not.
I woke up crying and upset just like I had the five times before. However, this time I smiled. Was this God's way of letting me know it was going to be OK? Things were not that different. He had our child/ren all picked out for us and they were the ones that were meant to be our children, just like the other five that we had been blessed with before.
I have never been more happy to give birth to a MONKEY. However, I warned my family that if we go to Ethiopia and they hand me a furry creature they better be just as upset as I am.
They, of course, think I am crazy. An assumption, I am pretty sure, the rest of us have already confirmed is true.
Anyway, after our hair appointments it was already 1:30 so we decided to go get Paige out of school a little early and spend the rest of the day at Disneyland.
This is one of my favorite things about homeschooling, I love how spontaneous your life can become. I'm trying to finagle a way to buy a RV so we can take off on trips and go explore when ever we want to. That, however, will not be happening until after we pay for our adoption.
Speaking of our upcoming adoption.....the referrals seems to be really pouring in the last few weeks. I'm pretty sure we won't get a referral until after the first of the year but it is really exciting to celebrate with all the other families.
I have been having some of the "normal" anxiety and doubts about this adoption lately. Will I feel an immediate connection to these children like I did my biological children? What will they think of me? Will they bond with there new siblings? I have been reading a lot and know all of these questions are normal. Ninety percent of the time I am excited and can't wait, and then there is the other ten percent when I worry and fret.
When I was pregnant with the other children I always had crazy dreams about my delivery. They were always awful. I would deliver and the doctor would hand me my baby. The baby was always a puppy or rabbit, etc. I was always so upset, insisting THIS WAS NOT MY BABY, but the people around me would insist it was and coo over how cute our new child was. I would wake up in a panic, crying and upset. This happened all five times I have had a baby.
Thankfully, each time I was handed an actual baby and not some furry creature after delivery.
The other night I was laying in bed with my doubts and fears, praying to God for them to go away. I drifted off to sleep and began to dream. Our entire family was in Ethiopia to pick up our little girl. We were all excited and sitting in a little room waiting for them to bring her in. A woman dressed like a nurse came in with this cute little bundle in her arms. She handed her to me. When I drew the blanket back there was a MONKEY inside. Dave and all the kids started oohing and ahhing over this cute monkey and I of course threw a fit and wanted to know where my daughter was. They all thought I was crazy and were so happy with there new little sister, I was not.
I woke up crying and upset just like I had the five times before. However, this time I smiled. Was this God's way of letting me know it was going to be OK? Things were not that different. He had our child/ren all picked out for us and they were the ones that were meant to be our children, just like the other five that we had been blessed with before.
I have never been more happy to give birth to a MONKEY. However, I warned my family that if we go to Ethiopia and they hand me a furry creature they better be just as upset as I am.
They, of course, think I am crazy. An assumption, I am pretty sure, the rest of us have already confirmed is true.
Labels: Adoption, Ethiopia, Home Schooling
Tuesday, November 04, 2008
Trying to Remember.....
these things even though the election did not go my way.
1. The Bible will still have all the answers.
2. Prayer will still work.
3. The Holy Spirit will still move.
4. God will still inhabit the praises of His people.
5. There will still be God-anointed preaching.
6. There will still be singing of praise to God.
7. God will still pour out blessings upon His people.
8. There will still be room at the Cross.
9. Jesus will still love you.
10. Jesus will still save the lost when they come to Him.
...and God approves this message!
1. The Bible will still have all the answers.
2. Prayer will still work.
3. The Holy Spirit will still move.
4. God will still inhabit the praises of His people.
5. There will still be God-anointed preaching.
6. There will still be singing of praise to God.
7. God will still pour out blessings upon His people.
8. There will still be room at the Cross.
9. Jesus will still love you.
10. Jesus will still save the lost when they come to Him.
...and God approves this message!
Labels: politics
Monday, November 03, 2008
Halloween, A Birthday, and The Election Tomorrow
I have all these really cute Halloween pictures that I wanted to post but oldest son broke the charger to my laptop so I can't download them. I am not speaking to him.
After the excitement of Halloween on Friday we had Zach's birthday celebration on Saturday night. Here is a tip for all you moms; if you tell your child he can invite a few friends over for a party be sure and give him an actual number. We ended up with 13 high school juniors sleeping on our floor Saturday night, and let me tell you, those boys can eat!
We didn't get to "sleep" until 3:30 a.m. and then Paige woke up at 6:30. All of the boys were up by 8:00 and thankfully their parents came by 9:30 to pick them up. We made it to church for the 11:00 a.m. service and then came home and fell back to sleep for the rest of the afternoon. The boys had a blast, Dave and I have decided we are really to old to do all nighters any more. I was seriously pooped out.
Today was spent having a challenging school day with my ten year old and trying not to feel anxious about the election tomorrow. I am trying to remind myself that God is still in control no matter what happens.
We have two very important propositions on the ballot for our state tomorrow. The first is Prop. 8 which would again make gay marriage in our state illegal. I went out with Zach tonight to pick up some food and the Yes on Prop 8 people were yelling and screaming on one side of the street and the No on Prop. 8 were on the other side yelling and screaming. The police were in between them trying to keep order. It made me sad that we are all so divided on this issue. There is no one that seems to be neutral, including myself, which makes for a very volatile situation.
The other proposition involves parental notification before a minor can have an abortion. My mind cannot fathom how my child cannot take a Tylenol to school without being threatened with expulsion but a teacher could take my underage daughter to a clinic during school and bring her back without her parents knowing anything had gone on. Does this make sense to you?
I have been praying very hard for both of these laws to pass tomorrow, and if we don't win, I know I will have a 24 hour period of feeling very very sad. I almost don't want tomorrow to come.
Pray for our country my friends, I am so afraid we are going to head down the wrong path tomorrow.
p.s. I'm only kidding, I'm talking to Zach, though I am very annoyed. This is the second time this has happened. Grrrrr.
p.s.s. After I posted this I clicked over here. True words of wisdom were spoken and I felt much better. God truly is in control.
After the excitement of Halloween on Friday we had Zach's birthday celebration on Saturday night. Here is a tip for all you moms; if you tell your child he can invite a few friends over for a party be sure and give him an actual number. We ended up with 13 high school juniors sleeping on our floor Saturday night, and let me tell you, those boys can eat!
We didn't get to "sleep" until 3:30 a.m. and then Paige woke up at 6:30. All of the boys were up by 8:00 and thankfully their parents came by 9:30 to pick them up. We made it to church for the 11:00 a.m. service and then came home and fell back to sleep for the rest of the afternoon. The boys had a blast, Dave and I have decided we are really to old to do all nighters any more. I was seriously pooped out.
Today was spent having a challenging school day with my ten year old and trying not to feel anxious about the election tomorrow. I am trying to remind myself that God is still in control no matter what happens.
We have two very important propositions on the ballot for our state tomorrow. The first is Prop. 8 which would again make gay marriage in our state illegal. I went out with Zach tonight to pick up some food and the Yes on Prop 8 people were yelling and screaming on one side of the street and the No on Prop. 8 were on the other side yelling and screaming. The police were in between them trying to keep order. It made me sad that we are all so divided on this issue. There is no one that seems to be neutral, including myself, which makes for a very volatile situation.
The other proposition involves parental notification before a minor can have an abortion. My mind cannot fathom how my child cannot take a Tylenol to school without being threatened with expulsion but a teacher could take my underage daughter to a clinic during school and bring her back without her parents knowing anything had gone on. Does this make sense to you?
I have been praying very hard for both of these laws to pass tomorrow, and if we don't win, I know I will have a 24 hour period of feeling very very sad. I almost don't want tomorrow to come.
Pray for our country my friends, I am so afraid we are going to head down the wrong path tomorrow.
p.s. I'm only kidding, I'm talking to Zach, though I am very annoyed. This is the second time this has happened. Grrrrr.
p.s.s. After I posted this I clicked over here. True words of wisdom were spoken and I felt much better. God truly is in control.
