Overflowing With Blessings

Happy Monday!

2012-01-30T07:07:00.000-06:00

Okay, so the pictures in my previous post are horribly blurry. They were taken from my phone, but so were many of the others you've seen on here. I don't know why these were any different. Oh, well. If they made you feel cross-eyed, I'm sorry. They made me feel that way.

I do not love getting up early on Monday mornings. I kept on pushing the snooze button this morning, and finally decided to get up. The dogs are so funny, especially Crash. Andy waits on me to come downstairs everyday, but the minute I turn on the upstairs lamp in the hall, Crash starts whimpering. It's like he's been waiting so patiently, and he is done. It always takes a minute to get to him, because I take all the dirty clothes to the laundry, turn on a living room lamp (because it's still dark) and turn on a kitchen light. Andy just stands and waits patiently, Crash on the other hand...not so much.

I desperately need to go to the grocery store. I have my meals planned out for the week, but I'll post about that later. I need the dinner items and I need lunch box items. I'm so low on things in my pantry that Graham and Drew are buying today. Pitiful. Do you make your kids' lunches every morning? What do you put in them? I'd love to know...I try to switch things up some, so I love new ideas.

I started my latest book last night. I'd been putting it off because I was excited about it. I always do that with the Janet Evanovich books. I love them and always read them in a couple of days. The one I'm reading now is Smoking Seventeen. So far, so good! If you read her books...I have a question? Morelli or Ranger?

To not have a lot of food in my house right now, I was impressed with what I could come up with for Graham's and Drew's breakfast. Cheese toast and turkey bacon. :) They love it.

One of my favorite things to do in the mornings is to catch up on the blogs I love. Which ones do you like to read? Most of mine don't write often enough.

I'm going to get started on my laundry. What I can, anyway, since I'm all out of detergent. Seriously...who (with four kids) runs out of laundry detergent??? Me, apparently.

Happy Monday and love to all.

Sunday Update

2012-01-29T16:27:00.002-06:00

It's been a great weekend. Lots of family time, a little bit of friends...the perfect amount. Friday night, my Mom, sisters, Tricia and Lisa, and I went to see One For The Money. My Mom, Lisa and I have been reading Janet Evanovich's books for seventeen years. We're up to reading number seventeen right now, although number eighteen was just released. So, of course, we had to go see the movie.

I liked it, although, I'm seeing on Facebook that most people didn't. It's a movie that was made from a book, so my expectations weren't all that high. But I was pleasantly surprised, and let's face it...I don't see many movies, so most movies I see, I like. :) In my opinion, they cost too much. I love seeing them, but I do not love spending that money.

After the movie, I came home and did this:

I went back to being brunette. This is very close to my natural hair color, judging from the two inch roots I had showing. I had gotten WAY too blond, and although I loved the highlights at first, I am tired of keeping up with them. I think I'm ready to stay one color for a nice long while. We'll see. It actually looks a little darker than this in person, so it's a little shocking, but I like it. I am counting on kids asking, "Mrs. Goodwin, why did you paint your hair???" tomorrow. Gotta love kids!

Yesterday, Todd, Graham, Drew and Nate (my 5th son) went to Lacrosse practice. I sat around and did laundry and read. So much for cleaning the upstairs. Hmph. The good thing is that the mess isn't going anywhere....so why the pressure to clean right away?

Jonah and Noah did a lot of this:

I love when they use their little imaginations.

When we started getting hungry (around eleven), we were watching a cooking show, my new fave, The Pioneer Woman. I was inspired to make French toast. As I went into the pantry to get the ingredients, I found this:

(Yes the shelf paper is from the eighties, and no my entire pantry does not look like this. This is the chip/cookie shelf.)

Jonah lost his little puppy dog and I found it in the pantry. Makes sense, right?

Lunch was yummy. So was the dinner we had at my mom's house. It's been a good weekend. It's almost time to get back to the real world. Tonight, Drew has to finish writing about his science fair project. It's due Thursday, and the only thing I want him to have to do is to assemble it to the project board. I think he can handle that deadline. Why on earth they feel the need to make a science fair project a requirement is beyond me. Most kids can't do it all alone...although Drew is. And Graham did last year. I am all about them being independent for school. We don't help much, unless it's to explain something.

How has your weekend been?

Enjoy what's left of it! Love to all.

Things That Make You Go Hmmmm

2012-01-26T14:35:00.001-06:00

Sounds like a song, huh?

I wonder if my dog is teething? He is rolling all around on the dog bed, gnawing on a rope. And on the rubber end of it.

I wonder if people could observe themselves, would they act differently?

I wonder if Andy the Wonder Dog hates me. This might be why he randomly get a pb&j sandwich every once in a blue moon. :-)

I wonder if the maid is ever going to get caught up on all her laundry and house cleaning?

I wonder if I'm addicted to carmex?

I wonder if we all just smiled more, what in the world would this place be like?!

I wonder if Frito Lays knows how amazing their cheddar sour cream chips are?

I wonder if people know the power of their words?

I wonder if they DID, would they change them into a softer, non-accusatory tone?

I wonder if I have always known the meaning of being (and having) a friend? A true one?

I wonder if people know how amazing Jesus is. And how He, when we pray, replaces our fears with calm, our upset with peace, and our troubles for joy? But you have to ask. And you have to believe.

I wonder if each one of us continuously poured into just one person, what would happen? (Our church is offering a challenge similar to "each one, reach one".)

I wonder if anyone reads this? Because I don't get very many comments. :-(

Love to all.

What's For Dinner, Tuesday Edition

2012-01-24T20:07:00.000-06:00

Well, there will be other stuff than just dinner on this blog post. Just wanted to warn you.

This morning started off bright and early at the middle school. I had to park far away, so as I was walking, I was thinking how much I will miss seeing this building everyday. (The kids will have a brand new middle school next school year.)

I am such a sucker for historical buildings. I never had the privilege of going to this school back when it was Collierville High School, but all my sisters did grace the hallways with their presence. I have several pictures up on Facebook for them, because I know they like to remember what those days were like.

Yes, I was standing in the middle of College Street. There were no cars coming, though, so no worries.

And yes, I took these pictures with this blog in mind. Crazy, huh? It seems nowadays I have lots to say about lots of different things, and my friend Shari would be proud to know that I enjoy using pictures.

So, after awards were presented this morning for honor roll, we got to eat donuts and have milk. :) Poor Todd can't drink milk anymore, so he had to have water. God love him...milk makes his sinuses go crazy, so he doesn't drink it anymore. After we ate, we got to sit around and visit.

I love these middle school kids. :) These two guys came to sit with Graham as we sat around the lunch table and chatted. Isn't this a great picture?? Todd had just taken my picture with Graham and Thomas (the one with his head thrown back) was making fun of him. (All in good nature.) I told him to keep on doing it. He did. So I took this picture. :) And now it's on my blog. Alex is the boy next to him. I love their expressions...makes me happy to see happy kids. We also go to church with Alex.

Me and my Graham. :) He took this picture with a good attitude. Somebody is just like his daddy and does not like to have his picture taken.

Lastly is dinner! It was yummy. We had pork chops, salad (with homemade ranch dressing), roasted broccoli and cauliflower and bread. I marinated the pork chops in Italian dressing, then seared them in a pan with olive oil until they were nice and crusty on the outside. I finished them in the oven, at 375 for 30 minutes. I scraped the pan that I seared them in and drizzled that on top of them, then poured the leftover marinade over them.

Success! Once again, everyone loved it. Nobody had anything left on their plates. I even have enough leftover for one person to have it another night this week. Awesome!

What was for dinner at your house?

Love to all!

Inspired By A Friend

2012-01-24T14:47:00.000-06:00

Is it hard for you to trust God? When His plans aren't quite what your plans were?

What does it mean for YOU to trust God?

To me, it reminds me of playing the game Spades. In the game, a team member can opt to go "nil" or "blind nil", which means they are going to try to NOT score (mess up). You have to trust that your partner will carry your weight.

One friend on Facebook said that for her, trusting God would be like walking a tightrope with a blindfold on. When all that can get you to the other side is quietly listening for that small, still voice.

What does trusting God mean to you?

Share some love and comment. Love to all!

Tuesday

2012-01-24T07:22:00.000-06:00

I know it's going to be a good day when I wake up before my alarm goes off! It's a good thing, too...since today is hair-washing day. (I don't wash my hair everyday...sometimes I go three or four days without doing it. Washing curly hair dries it out really bad, and since mine is already very dry...and colored...well, you get my drift.)

I have decided that I have a love/hate relationship with Evil Knievel/Crash. I think that dogs just have bad days sometimes. Goodness knows I do...it makes sense for dogs, too. Thank you to my sweet friend, Kathy, that told me this yesterday at work. She works in our school's front office, and she almost always has some kind of wisdom for me...whether it be for my kids or my dogs. She is a foster parent for golden retrievers...so she knows a lot about our furry friends.

Today is awards day for seventh grade. I am glad that Drew is okay with Graham getting one and the fact that he didn't. I just stopped writing to tell him how proud of him I am. I don't need an award with his name on it telling me how smart he is...I already know that he is smart. Unfortunately, a C in reading in the first nine weeks messed it up for him...but he has since pulled that way up. I am proud of them both. :)

I love making lunches for my kids. Today I packed an amazing lunch for Graham and Drew. Salad, chicken tenders for the salad, croutons to go in it, chips and a dessert. They are so excited about lunch today. (And dinner tonight...my kids LOVE pork chops!) I am finding out that the saying "the way to a man's heart is through his stomach" is true.

I have given in and started taking Graham and Drew to school everyday. I am glad, since I found out their bus driver was suspended for cursing a student out. (Not judging her, because I couldn't put up with some of those kids...just thankful that my kids have a nice, calm environment riding to school now.)

I am starting to LOVE Thursdays!!! I never thought I would say that, but I do! Our afternoons are insanely busy, but I love them. We go from picking JUST Jonah and Noah up from school, to lacrosse practice, to the chiropractor, and then to my in-love's house for dinner. I am sucker for traditions...and this one is becoming one of my favorites.

I have to go...must wake up Jonah and Noah and get Graham and Drew off to school. Happy Tuesday! Love to all!

*Lord, I pray that today you clothe me in gentleness, kindness, patience and humility. All for Your glory. Amen.

Goofin' Around & What's For Dinner

2012-01-23T19:58:00.000-06:00

:) I sent my sweet Christa a "helluuuur" picture today of moi. Wanna see it?

I miss that girl. We haven't talked in like fourteen years, so after this picture, she sent me one back and then we scheduled a phone date. :) And proceeded to talk for 45 minutes. I don't think we've talked that long since before she got married. It was loverly.

We were able to talk because I was at an elementary school while Graham's lacrosse team practiced. And all the other kids were out playing on the playground. It was heaven. We decided to end it when my kids started getting back in the car.

So, this week is week TWO of being prepared for dinner every single night. And tonight was a success. :) Wanna see?

This was slap-your-mama good. The fish is tilapia. I baked it at 375 for seventeen minutes. I think the package said 12-14, but I started at 12 and had to add five more. I let it marinade in olive oil, salt, pepper and lemon juice. Right before putting it into the oven I squeezed more lemon juice on it. Yummmmmm.

The kids devoured it. In fact, Noah and Drew had two pieces.

The veggies and cheese you see are oven roasted potatoes and broccoli. I saw Giada do some veggies this way yesterday and thought I would try it. I sprinkled olive oil on the tops of the potatoes and broccoli, then added a little salt and pepper. I roasted them at 425 for fifteen minutes. At the last minute I added cheese, hoping that my picky eater(s) would try it. He did. And said, "I kinda like it.". I'll take that. He also tried some salad and said the same thing. Progress! Can you guess which one is picky?

The other sides are black beans and rice. I don't usually fix two starches, but the potatoes were a last minute add on...and who eats fish without rice? Well, not us. Not since we met our little friends from the Children of the World choir a couple years ago.

Dinner was a hit. I had to take a picture, because I thought it looked pretty. :)

Tomorrow night's menu is pork chops, and oven-roasted broccoli and cauliflower. I might take another picture...but I'll let you know how it turns out. I don't know how I'm going to do the pork chops yet...any recommendations on what you do to them? I don't want them to be chewy and rubbery. Feel free to share the love and comment.

I'll end with a picture I saw on Facebook posted by Women After God. I really like this saying...it's close to what my old pastor used to say. "Attitude is the most important thing you put on everyday."

Enjoy your family tonight. Love to all.

Oh, and the picky eater would be this little guy.

Jonah. Not Nana. I love this picture of her, though, so I thought I would post it.

storms

2012-01-22T19:14:00.000-06:00

"Don't be afraid, for I am with you; don't be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand." Isaiah 41:10

Lord, keep us all safe tonight. In Your name I ask this, amen.

Love to all.

a few of my favorite things (another Sunday edition)

2012-01-22T12:53:00.000-06:00

All of these images were taken from Women After God on Facebook. Happy Sunday. Love to all.

Saturday Morning Random

2012-01-21T10:19:00.000-06:00

I read a friend's blog yesterday and was leaving a comment when I thought of this statement: if you stay in the Word, the Word stays in you. Isn't that true? If we take that time to read God's Word, we will be so encouraged. Especially if you read in the New Testament. Or the book of Psalm.

I actually got up and made breakfast. I know, right? It is Saturday, though. I made turkey bacon and crescent rolls. I don't know what it is with that combo, but my kids love it. And what is UP with me and this cooking binge? My kids like it, though. :)

I am happy when my house is full. I love that my kids love to have their friends over. I think we're pretty fun to hang out with, too. You never know when I might randomly burst into song. :) I make up little ditty's all the time at my kids, and when their friends are here, well...I might as well sing to them, too, right?

I am watching CMT music videos right now. The song God Gave Me You is on right now...by Blake Shelton. I love this song! And yes, I know it's not new...I've heard it plenty of times, I just really like it.

I'm thinking of going back to being a brunette. I know, right? I've lost count on how much my hair color has changed in the past year or three.

So, in watching CMT, I see a commercial for My Big Redneck Vacation? Really? Okay...if I am what I watch, then I might be in trouble.

Todd took Graham to lacrosse practice this morning. The other five boys that are here are in my front yard playing "capture the flag". I looked outside and saw that they were across the street searching in Mr. Dan's flower bed. Yikes...they're at least back on my side of the street now. I wonder if they're frozen yet. They've been outside for 45 minutes, and my computer says that it's a balmy 32 degrees. (It was sixty-five last night.)

Graham and I made cake balls last night. Shut your mouth. They are unbelievably delicious. It's a good thing they're a royal pain in the rump, because I will not be making them again for a long time. You take a boxed cake mix and bake it according to the instructions. Once the cake has been baked and is completely cooled off, you mix an entire container of the frosting of your choice into the crumbled cake mixture. Once that's all mixed (you have to use your hands, which I hated but Graham loved), form them into balls. I made mine a little bigger because I was already over this whole process. Once the balls are formed, you melt any kind of candy coating you prefer. I used all chocolate (cake, frosting and candy coating). Once the coating hardens, enjoy!

They were (still ARE) amazing.

I told you...I'm on this cooking binge. These cake balls are a huge hit with all these boys I have in my house. Well, except for the one (Hopper, we like to call him) that doesn't like chocolate.

Laundry is calling my name. And my nails...I need to redo them all. And my Bible reading...can't forget that. My Youversion app is blinking at me from my phone, so I'll do that first. Enjoy your day! Love to all!

Weekly Meals

2012-01-20T18:02:00.000-06:00

It's Friday and week one of being completely ready for dinner each night was a huge success!

Sadly, we were only home for three nights...well, four I guess, but Wednesday night was so fast that I'm not counting it.

Here's what we had, in case anyone is interested.

Monday night was Herbed Shrimp Pasta and bread drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and dill weed.

8 oz angel hair pasta

1 cup butter

1 1/2 lbs peeled shrimp

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups half and half

1/2 cup chopped parsely

1/2 tsp salt

2 tsp fresh dillweed (optional...I left this out)

Cook pasta according to directions. Drain, set aside.

Melt butter over medium high heat, add shrimp and garlic.

Cook, stirring constantly, 3 to 5 minutes, or until shrimp turns pink.

Remove shrimp and set aside, reserving garlic and butter.

Add half and half, bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes, or until thickened.

Add shrimp, parsely, salt, pepper and dillweed. Stir until blended. Serve over pasta. Yield: 6 servings.

It was so good! I bookmarked it to let me know to cook this again.

Tuesday night we had Creamy Chicken Casserole.

3 cups cooked chicken

1 (10 3/4 oz) can cream of chicken soup, undiluted

1 (8 oz) carton sour cream

1 T poppy seeds

1 1/2 cups crushed Ritz crackers (1 sleeve)

1/4 cup butter, melted

Combine first 4 ingredients; spoon into lightly greased casserole dish (11x7). Combine crushed crackers and butter, and sprinkle over chicken mixture. Bake, uncovered, at 350 for 30 minutes. Yield: 4 servings.

I've made this before, but man was it good again. It's been a while. Jonah wasn't thrilled with it, but he did manage to choke it down. (I know, right?) I served this with salad and homemade dressing, which only Drew and I ate.

Wednesday night we had church, so for that night I made hot turkey and cheese sammy's.

Thursday night we had dinner with my in-love's. Thanks, Phyllis!

Tonight we are having hot dogs and macaroni and cheese...per their request. BUT, the mac'n'cheese is homemade. So yummy!! The ultimate comfort food. If you would like the recipe for that, click here.

Tomorrow night is dinner with my Mom and Bill and Sunday night is...I don't know. Maybe dinner with Travis and Katie? Again?

This has been a successful week, and for that I am thankful. And I'm thankful Jonah is still breathing. Because this kid's eating habits are enough to make a nun curse.

Happy weekend! Love to all.

what's up?

2012-01-20T10:41:00.000-06:00

I love mornings. LOVE them. I have always been a morning person. I get the most accomplished in the least amount of time. Once I eat lunch, I'm not so great. Maybe I would be if I stayed home more, but since I don't...well, you get the drift.

The thing I love most about my mornings right now is the quiet time I've been practicing. Since December 30th, I have made a concentrated effort to have at least 30 minutes of quiet in the morning. It's not necessarily the first thing I do, but once I am awake and my mind is alert, I read my Bible plan for the day and pray. And journal...I've gotten away from the art of journaling, and since I got a new one for Christmas, I have picked it back up.

Turns out I have much to write about.

I write out what I've read for the day (I'm reading the chronological Bible in a year), and I write out prayers. Personal stuff. Why do I do this? Because I want my husband and kids to know how much I pour over their sweet names in prayer and in Scripture. Their names are also all over my Bible.

Why?

Because should anything ever happen to me, I want them to have these letters from me. And I want each of my sons to have at least one of my Bibles.

I am now marking up Bible number four.

Added to this blessed time of Bible reading, I've also been completing my Bible study homework. I'm participating in Beth Moore's newest: James: Mercy Triumphs. I love it. I feel like it was written just for me. Especially today's homework, which was all about wisdom.

The good Lord knows I need it. I'm seeking Him in a couple of areas right now, and it's like He timed this perfectly. I know He did.

So that's what I've been doing in the mornings. I love this time and am unwilling to part with even one of my precious mornings. What have you been up to this week? Comment, and share the love.

Love to all.

Words...Again

2012-01-18T22:14:00.000-06:00

I had a thought today: for those of us on Facebook...does our Facebook activity reflect who we are? It should. I think it says a lot about someone...whether joyful, thankful, sad, full of complaints...I am challenged to watch my words.

I cried over a blog post written by my friend, Marian, yesterday. It was about her beloved dog, Zeus, and reminded me of that day last year when I was convinced Andy was about to die. Seriously...I boohooed. And then today as I told her that at work, I laughed so hard over our dog antics that I almost cried.

My laundry has not been touched since Monday. It's piling up and is close to overtaking my laundry room. Yup, you read right. I am human. But the one thing I have not neglected is reading the Bible! I am so excited over my daily reading...I crave this time. Crave it.

I am in a new Bible study at church. It's the new Beth Moore one on James...it's called Mercy Triumphs. I love the homework so far.

My stomach has been hurting a lot lately...last night, this morning...right now. :-(

Drew had number one of his two part evaluation today at the Southern College of Optometry. It was stated that he does definitely need vision therapy...once a week for anywhere from eight to twenty four weeks. Yowza. That is a LOT of school to miss and a lot of work to have to think about. :-( I foresee a future meeting with my boss. (Did I mention that he is seeing double? His eyes are not working with one another, and we are trying to correct this. My dad had this when he was young, and so did my mother-in-law.)

I am thinking ahead to next year in school...and am in some need of prayer, if you are the praying type. I am praying for guidance and for wisdom and discernment. And clear-headedness.

I made a very judgmental comment tonight watching American Idol, and now I feel bad. :-(

We watched the season premier of American Idol! I loved that last guy, Phillip Phillips. (I know, right??)

I am on a reading kick. As in, cannot get enough time in to read. I came home on Tuesday, read the Bible, completed two days of Bible study homework, and ate lunch so I could finish the amazing book I was reading.

I'm thinking of painting my kitchen. I warned Todd tonight that someday in the distant future he might come home to a new kitchen. :-) And I'm not even telling him the color. My mom and I were brainstorming this morning. Mom is really good at helping pick colors and picking the perfect fabric to make curtains. And she just so happens to be bored right now, so why not???

I also want to paint the playroom...but before that happens, it needs to be cleaned out. This task overwhelms me. Kinda like the attic...same thing. It needs cleaning, but it's too overwhelming!

Birthdays are going to be here before I know it. Exciting!!!

I cannot believe Todd and I agreed upon the fact that Graham could buy a set of drums.

I am in the process of trying to develop a new habit of planning out our entire week's worth of meals...and week one has been a success. :-)

I have to go to bed before my stomach makes me any more miserable.

Love to all.

Pet Peeves

2012-01-17T19:07:00.000-06:00

I have them. I have lots of them. Do you? I thought I would share a few...in case you were dying to know.

Teachers who are mean. I am in the middle of a little "tiff" with one of Graham's teachers. Do they not know and realize the power of their words? You can literally make or break a seventh grader with your words alone...their self-esteems are very fragile at this point in time, and shame on them for not being mindful of that!

The commercial on cable for the new show "Taboo".

Holy socks. (And yes, I know that is not really a word, at least when it comes to socks...but you get my drift.)

Hair on my floor. Dog hair. For all these years I thought Andy's hair was bad. Then came Crash. His little white hairs are all over my hardwood, and it is enough to drive me bonkers!

Chapped lips. Mine are horribly chapped right now, and the only thing that soothes them is Carmex. (Carlips. Grin.)

Mean kids. I am almost to the point of being fed up...I hate how politically correct everything is nowadays, and how mean kids are rewarded for doing good on one day, and good kids (who are good ALL the time) are ignored. Do NOT get me started. I'd better stop right there.

Parents that aren't parents. Get the picture?

Chipped nailpolish. Mine is chipped right now, and driving me nuts. I need to go fix it, but can't seem to find the energy. I am going to read my new Debbie Macomber book instead. :)

Kids that argue. That is all.

Weather that can't decide what to do...today it was almost seventy degrees...tonight, as I write this, my computer says forty-one. Grrrrrr.

That sick, moist/humid feeling. And what my hair looks like on such days. Curly hair only likes cold weather.

The two/to/too, there/their/they're mistake. Learn it, people!!! And you would be shocked at how many people make that mistake.

That's about all I can think of for now (actually, I could go on, but I don't want to seem too down-in-the-dumps!).

What are some of your pet peeves? I know you have them. Leave some love. Comment. I know you read this. Yup, YOU. :)

Love to all!

The Character of my Kids

2012-01-12T21:53:00.000-06:00

Graham. Twelve, going on twenty-two. Legalistic. Leader. Helper.

The first picture was taken when he was eight. I think? Andy is in the backseat, so it's been within the six years we've had him. And yes, he is truly driving that Jeep. The passenger you see is my husband's best friend, Bob. The driving was taking place on Bob's farm.

Drew. Funny. Loyal. Loves to laugh. Friend. Tenderhearted. Compassionate.

Drew was fishing with Big Daddy.

Drew got this shiner by not holding his baseball glove in front of his face. This eye started with a goose egg and ended in the colors of the rainbow. He was so proud of his black eye! And the girls loved it.

I'm pretty sure this was on his birthday. Crazy kid.

Jonah. Helper. Compassionate. Smiley. Bossy.

My favorite picture of Jonah ever...this was taken in Nashville when he and Noah were two years old. :)

Mr. Blue Eyes, himself. And those precious little dimples. And sweet red cheeks. :)

Noah. Sweet. Complimentary. Encouraging. Loves to draw. Quietly reserved.

Sweet, baby Noah.

A really cool park in Nashville.

His favorite jeans ever, and his first time in a pair of ice skates. This was after a Memphis Riverkings game.

Love to all.

Jonah

2012-01-12T07:14:00.001-06:00

He has a special heart. He reminds me of Graham when he was that age. On Tuesday, Jonah was so excited to come home and tell me a story. He had been in class that afternoon when their room's intercom buzzed and an assistant called and asked if Jonah could please come to the office. (Words that would probably scare most kids!)

Once he got there, it was explained to him that the principal had asked for him specifically.

There was a special friend on the playground that they wanted to teach to use the rope climb. Jonah had helped with this friend in the past in the classroom, and he is really good with him. Because of that, the principal knew that Jonah would do good with him on the playground.

So, Jonah went out and demonstrated for him. :) A little bird told me that the friend listened really well to Jonah, and he ended up accomplishing exactly what they wanted him to.

As I walked by our principal yesterday, she stopped me and told me what a great job Jonah had done. I thanked her for choosing him to work with our special friend. I also told her she had made his entire week by singling him out. A funny thing about twins is that usually never happens. I'm glad it did for a day. A little extra attention never hurt anybody.

I am really proud of this special boy of mine. (They're ALL special in their own separate ways...but this day, I am talking about my little Jonah.) It does a Mom's heart good to hear good things about her kids. Especially coming from the principal of the school...who sees literally hundreds of kids everyday and interacts with them.

Thank You, Lord, for the gift You gave me in my kids.

Love to all.

reactions

2012-01-11T14:47:00.000-06:00

We all have them...reactions, that is. Sometimes I am really quick to react in a certain situation. Usually when that happens, I know that I have not done or said the right thing.

Other times, I take a long, deep breath and then pray. :) Because when I ask for God to give me the words, He does. Just because it happens like that doesn't mean I want to scream. I usually do, but it slowly fades.

These times, these instances that cause my reactions are good lessons. Lessons in patience, lessons in how to remain calm, lessons in humility...all of these things are things to learn from.

Some days I learn a lot. :(

Some days I forget to pray this verse that I love to pray:

"May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pleasing in Your sight O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer." (Psalm 19:14)

Some days my intentions are taken the wrong way.

Some days I might seem like I'm boasting.

And then I remember that verse...the one that says (something to the extent of) "if I boast in one thing, may it be in the Lord". And then I have to apologize.

Even when it might be something I've done or said unintentionally. (I always tell my kids, "Even if it's an accident, you STILL have to say you're sorry!") Same thing applies to me.

I am human. I am flawed. But still...I am loved by the Lord. All of us are...thankfully, He doesn't require that we be "good enough" for His love...His love just IS.

How do you react?

Love to all.

Listening

2012-01-10T10:19:00.000-06:00

Wow, God. It's all I can say. Well, except for what I'm about to write. ;-)

I was listening to the Klove morning show as I was getting dressed, and I heard the d.j.'s talking about how the words "restore" and "renew" are being used in the medical field today. In a fad sort of way. Even as I heard them say that, I could think back on recently hearing the words, "renew your mind" in the past few weeks. Have you heard them spoken? Or seen them written?

I'm on day twelve of my Chronological Bible in a year. The only reason I even tell you that is because (without even knowing it) you are my motivation. My accountability. I cannot do something so important to me without some accountability. So, even if you might not have known it until now, thank you. :)

Anyway, in today's reading, I am still in the book of Job. I am shocked at all I am getting out of this book! I've read it all before, but something about it this time around is just jumping out at me, almost every single day. I wanted to share with you what I got today. (And please know that what I am writing is at myself...not you...I don't ever want you to think I'm "preaching" at you. It's usually for me, and I get so excited that I have to share it.)

I read chapters 32, 33 and 34 today. At this point in the book, Job has spoken his peace, his "friends" have spoken their peace, and now it's Elihu's turn to speak up. He's kept silent up till now because of his age. He is much younger than the other friends, and only when they've finished does he speak. And I love what he has to say!

The first verse that jumped out at me was in Chapter 32, verse 8.

"But it is the spirit in a man, the breath of the Almighty, that gives him understanding."

I wish I could give a number as to how many times I have prayed, asking for wisdom and understanding. And I always get it...maybe not the wisdom or understanding that I thought I was going to get...but God's wisdom and understanding. At those times, I have to simply trust Him...that His way is much better than my way. And yes, that is very hard. But He always uses it in some way that I might or might not understand. The key is to trust. Do you?

The next verses are totally appropriate for my blog. I love to write and share what is on my heart. I know that not everyone believes Who and What I believe in, but that's okay. My prayer is that what you read on here will plant a seed in your heart, and that someday you will remember some of God's truth.

Job 32:18 "For I am full of words, and the spirit within me compels me."

Job 33:3&4 "My words come from an upright heart; my lips sincerely speak what I know. The Spirit of God has made me; the breath of the Almighty gives me life."

I have good intentions when I write. I promise.

I love this next one:

Job 33:14 "For God does speak-now one way, now another-though man may not perceive it."

He has the capability of speaking to everyone...the key is to listen. He speaks to me through His word. I have to read it and listen for it, though. I do that by asking Him to give me a word for the day...and most times He does. (John 1:1 "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.")

Are you listening? Some days I really have to strain my ears, and still I don't hear Him. It's all about the condition of my heart for that day. Some days I rush through my quiet time, other days I really soak it up.

This next one is that fad medical term I was telling you about.

Job 33:26 "He prays to God and finds favor with Him, he sees God's face and shouts for joy; he is restored by God to his righteous state."

Be renewed. Be restored. We are all made in His image, and that makes us righteous. (2 Corinthians 5:21 "God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.")

Job 34:4 "Let us discern for ourselves what is right; let us learn together what is good."

He gave man free will. I think that speaks for itself.

Job 34:21 "His eyes are on the ways of men; He sees their every step."

Not just how we are in church on Sunday. Our every step. How we are at home when nobody's watching. How we speak to our husbands. How we speak to our kids. I don't know about you, but that makes me cringe from guilt! I have to pray Psalm 19:14 all the time. "May the words of my mouth and meditation of my heart be pleasing in Your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer."

That one verse covers all the bases...what I say and what I think. Yikes. I am guilty! But He is not done with me.

I'm so thankful for that...He is molding me and shaping me into what He wants me to be. I just have to read His word. I have to seek His will. And in the chaos of my life, I have to listen.

I challenge you to listen for Him today.

Happy Tuesday and love to all!

three little words

2012-01-09T16:59:00.000-06:00

Roll Tide, Roll!

Guess what we'll be watching tonight?

Guess where we'll be eating dinner?

Guess who is NOT going to bed on time tonight?

Answers:

The Big Game

In front of the television, watching all the pregame stuff

Graham, Drew, Jonah, Noah and myself

In case you didn't pick up on it:

Roll Tide, Roll!

weekend recap

2012-01-09T07:12:00.000-06:00

It was amazing, this weekend we had. They usually are. I love family time! Even if we don't "do" anything, I just love us all being together at home. I even love that the dogs and cats are a part of us. :)

Friday night Drew had a friend spend the night. Nate the great, as I still call him...seven years into knowing him. Once Nate got here, Graham, Drew, Jonah, Noah, Nate and I all headed up to church. It was Go Fish night at church. (Go Fish is a free event for kids in first-fifth grade. It lasts from 6-9 and they get pizza, play games and make their own ice cream sundaes. This go round, the kids played Minute To Win It.) I had signed us up to help...Graham, Drew, and I. And Nate. He helped, too.

It was amazing! I love helping out at these...because, ultimately, it's this event that led us to this church. I don't mind working all of them to give back and show my appreciation for all the time and effort that Austin and his crew put into it to make a night like that happen. Guess how many kids came??? 211. Guess how many adults came to help? 50. I know, right?? There were so many people there, that all of us ladies that did registration and check-out just stayed put. We weren't needed anywhere else.

Jonah and Noah took their friend Myles with them from next door. He stayed with the third grade group because he was a little nervous about not knowing anybody. I love when I see the two littles being a good friend to someone. I told them to not leave Myles' side the entire night...and they didn't. Even when they went to the restroom. Funny, huh?

Saturday was spent at home, tinkering around here. I did some laundry, took a long, leisurely shower and repainted my fingernails. I also loaded the dishwasher, started the dishwasher, unloaded the dishwasher and restarted it. Seriously. I am ashamed. We might need to consider firing our maid...she is getting behind on her daily duties.

We went to my Mom's Saturday night. I put her to work after we had dinner. :) She cut Graham's and Drew's hair and mended Noah's jacket. I love having a resourceful mom! I didn't intend on asking her to cut their hair, but the boys had asked me about it, and she jumped all over it. They look so much better...not as mop-ish as they did when we first went over there.

Sunday morning we went to church. It was a great service. Afterward, Graham went home with his friend Gavin, and the rest of us went to Lenny's for lunch. We came home, I took a nap, Todd and Drew headed to Drew's Lacrosse practice, then everyone came back home. Well, Jonah and Noah alternated between being in our backyard to Travis' and Katie's house next door. We had breakfast for dinner, and the boys played the XBOX the rest of the night.

It was fabulous. (And I almost finished my book...plan on doing that today.)

Don't you just love weekends? Family time? I do. Too bad they don't last longer.

Happy Monday! Love to all.

Words

2012-01-08T16:26:00.000-06:00

I was in church this morning singing (in the congregation) and thinking at the same time. (I know, am I talented, or what??)

Some of the songs I really liked...and some of them were so-so.

But do you pay attention to the songs you sing in church? If not, you should! Once I got past the actual song and started paying attention to the words, I was instantly more worshipful.

Isn't that strange, how that works? Worship is an active verb (at least to me it is), and I have to remind myself of that quite often. Does anything hinder you from worshiping? The types of songs you sing? The volume? The people around you? I challenge you to focus more intently on what you're singing...and if any of the above things hinder you...see how it goes away when you focus on the words.

Our church sings lots of hymns.

Yup, these kinds.

At first I kind of didn't like it. Because I come from a church that is known city-wide for their music. And changing to a church that sings hymns really got to me. But then I tried to redirect my thinking and tried to really appreciate more of what we were singing. I am thankful that my kids will know hymns now. When before, they did not. Even if it's a little old-fashioned, sometimes, that's a good thing.

Needless to say, I enjoyed church today. The songs, the preaching, Sunday school...seeing friends.

That's one of the best parts. One friend, in particular, I haven't seen since the Sunday before Christmas. I just love her to pieces. When I was walking by our kids' church room, I saw her and had to sneak in for a hug.

I haven't known her for very long, but I feel like she is a true friend. We connected at kids' camp last summer, and she just wriggled her way right into my heart. Apparently the children's pastor knew that she would, because he put us together. Every week or two I really miss her if I don't see her, so today I was thrilled that she (and her sweet husband) was back. Words can't explain what this precious friend means to me...but her and her sweet family are just amazing.

Sometimes it's just good to draw on someone for encouragement. Maybe that's what she is to me...although, I try to be more of that for her! Funny how that works...we seem to draw it from one another. I consider her one of my gifts in life. :)

Who can you do this for this week?

Find someone! There is always someone in need of this...but if you feel like you can't, don't feel bad. Maybe you should stand back and receive some encouragement. I will try to be that for you this week...on my blog, on Facebook...any way I can. If there is any way that I can pray for you, please comment on here...or you can email me at allboys@gmail.com. I would be honored to do that for you this week.

Another thing I love to do is this:

Yup. I am a self proclaimed hugger. I love to give them, I love to receive them, and I consider myself a great one. Hugger, that is. I hold on tight...and cling to that moment. I don't ever think about it...I just do it. I hug all my friends without even thinking about it...I sure hope they don't mind! I hug my mom, my dad, my sisters, my in-laws, coworkers...the list could go on. I love to hug people, most of all my husband and kids. We've made them into snuggly little fellows and I love it.

How do you connect with people?

How do you handle them when they don't connect the same way you do? Like sometimes people just do not hug. I have felt really dumb a time or two...or three, but I got over it.

Find someone and connect with them this week! I wish you all the best. Love to all!

Blogging with Pictures

2012-01-07T10:16:00.000-06:00

I told my friend that I would try and blog more with pictures. So, Shari, this is for you. (Even if it is a pain in the rump!)

This little (well, not so little anymore) puppy just might be the death of me. I spend my time divided between loving him to pieces and being mad at him. This morning, at 9:57, he has already earned his name...Evil Knievel. That's what Jonah calls him half the time anyway...E.K. I am looking forward to two milestones with him: obedience school and having him "fixed". I pray that those two things calm his little happy self down.

Tricia, I promised that I wouldn't post this on Facebook. And I didn't. But I think this picture of my sister is the cutest thing ever. I love the hat she's wearing, and I love the fact that she was freezing when it was taken, so she pulled her hoodie up over her hat. I caught her when she was laughing...which I'm pretty sure we were laughing at her...and I just love the look on her face. Like, "OOPS!". This was taken on New Year's Day...she had ridden out to my Mom's house with us and was subjected to sitting next to some smelly boys for the ride out there and back.

This is a motivational thing we have going on at school right now. Although, I'm of the belief that kids should be sweet and helpful ALL the time, I am proud that Jonah got his name on the board. It happened before Christmas, in his own classroom. People in the school (teachers, assistants, cafeteria people, principals) wear a Dragon Diamond Award necklace around their neck everyday. If they catch someone doing a good deed, they give them their necklace. They have their name put onto this board, and the student gets to pick an award. The awards are helping in the cafeteria, helping in gym, assisting a pre-school class, eating lunch with a friend...things like that. Pretty cool.

Jonah got his name put on here before Christmas. His class had an auction one day before the break, and Jonah had lots of money (they earn "money" for good behavior, too) leftover. His friend wanted to buy his sister a puppy a calendar for Christmas but had run out of money. Jonah offered to buy it for him. His teacher saw this and took off her Dragon Diamond Award and gave it to him. She was all teary about it, too...and of course I was too as she told me about it later. :) He picked assisting the gym teacher as his reward...and he got to do that on Thursday.

I know the quality is kinda bad, but this hot air balloon was flying over our school Thursday morning. Cool, huh? I think Jonah took this picture.

Can you read what kind of car this is? It's a Chevy Impala. This illustrious person (who cut me off, by the way) thought it would be super fun to add a "P" to the word "Impala"...thus making it a Pimpala. I know, right? And yes, I totally took this picture as proof. And then called my sister Trish to tell her about it, laughing hysterically. ONLY IN MEMPHIS.

Isn't this cool? This was taken last night at Collierville First Baptist church. There is a HUGE cross that can be seen for miles around, and the kids wanted to hop out of the car to go stand underneath it. Noah wanted to take a picture, so I gave him my phone, and this is how it turned out. Pretty cool, huh? I might have a future photography-lover on my hands.

Well...this is our week in a nutshell. With pictures. Ahem, Shari. :) Enjoy your weekend...I know we will! Love to all!

What (My) Boys Like To Do

2012-01-06T10:38:00.000-06:00

It's no secret that I have four boys. Sometimes, all the testosterone in my house is enough to drive me absolutely bonkers, but I wouldn't trade one single, crazy, loud moment for all the money in the world.

I thought it would be fun to share what boys are like...in case you don't know.

They love to:

Compete. EVERYTHING IS A COMPETITION. I wish I had a dollar for every time I said these words: "IT'S NOT A COMPETITION!" But to them, it is.

Make bodily noises. I know, gross. But they do. And we all laugh...except for when it's inappropriate.

Sleep late.

Laugh. Drew and I stood at the kitchen sink, with oranges in our mouths as teeth, and tried to kiss each other for five minutes Wednesday night. We belly laughed together. It was ahmaazing!

Build forts. It never grows old. NEVER.

Play with Legos. Another one that never grows old.

Collect small, odd objects. I wish I could pinpoint a number as to how many little rocks, paperclips, shotgun shells, marbles, rubber bracelets, etc. I've washed. It's a wonder that my washer still functions. And yes...my dear husband is included in this one. I wash his drill bits all the time. So much so that I've been known to have a collection of them for him.

Hug their mama's. I love the hugs...and the kisses...and the drawings...and all the "I love you's". I will never tire of anything of it.

Play sports. Any kind and all kinds. They also love to watch sports, and can tell you everything you need to know about them to understand the game.

ESPN.

Reading what I write about them.

And with that one, I must say goodbye. Love to all!

...even NOW...

2012-01-05T10:09:00.000-06:00

I thought I would share a little of what I read in today's plan in reading the chronological Bible in a year. (Plus, if I blog about it, it helps me be accountable to someone other my furry friends.)

I never really thought I cared much for the book of Job. Who likes all the doom and gloom? But when you consider the character of Job, it's really an eye-opening book in the Bible. If you're not familiar with him, Job had everything back in the day that he lived. He walked with the Lord. He had a wife and children. He had wealth, in that he had a home and land with animals that lived on it.

He was faithful to God.

But then Satan decided to test Job. And God let him, because He knew that Job would remain faithful to Him.

So one right after another, tragedy strikes this man Job. He is tormented because he lost all that he held dear...his children, his animals, his home, his land. All that remained was Job and his wife. (And in my Bible at the beginning of Job, it says about his wife that she not much help to him.)

Chapter after chapter, Job suffers. Friends come to comfort him, but rather than do that they just make his situation seem worse by trying to make light of it.

One part that got me this morning was this:

Job 16:19-21 "Even now my witness is in heaven; my advocate is on high. My intercessor is my friend as my eyes pour out tears to God; on behalf of a man he pleads with God as a man pleads for his friend."

Even now...in the midst of Job's torment, he kept his eyes on the Lord. Sure, he questioned God. He even pleaded with God to just let him die and he regretted the day he'd been born. But somewhere along the way, he remembered that "even now" God was with him. He never left him.

I know people who are struggling daily. I am in touch with some of them on Facebook. I know people who question God regularly on the path their life has taken. I know who people who don't know God at all...and don't really care to because of something that might have happened to them or someone they know.

I wish they knew Him like I do. I would tell them that sometimes God does let things happen to those we love. I wish I could tell you a reason as to why He would allow tragedy to strike them...but I don't have an answer.

However, I do know that even in the midst of trial, God is still God. He never leaves us. He never forsakes us (Deuteronomy 31:6). We have to trust Him and His infinite plan (Proverbs 3:5).

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding."

Trust Him. It's never easy to let go and have that blind faith. But if we live like that, He will reveal little glimpses of Himself.

I call them God-things.

God knows that in life we're going to mourn those we lose, and that is perfectly normal and healthy. He doesn't want us to stay that way forever, though. He wants us to be comforted that if our loved ones knew Him, that they are now with Him...and that someday we will be reunited.

Isn't there a glimmer of hope in that?

I get really emotional when I think of how amazing Heaven will be. I cannot imagine the party that will take place when we all see each other again. Just think of all the people in your life that you've said 'goodbye' to...people that may still be alive, but ones you might never see again. Can you even imagine?

I almost can't wrap my mind around it.

I hope that this reaches someone today who needs it...my prayer is that God uses what I write to minister to you, if that is you. His word will not return to Him empty (Isaiah 55:11).

Who in the world knew all the treasures I would find in Job? In what I thought was one of the more 'blah' books in the Bible? Not me, that's for sure. I'm so thankful that this spoke to me today. It's an awesome reminder of staying focused...of keeping our eyes on what is to come.

Perfection. Bodies made whole. Streets of gold. An image too wonderful to imagine.

Take comfort in this today...in God's plan. He didn't come to harm us, but to prosper us. To give us a hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11). Rest in Him.

Love to all.

Good Thursday Morning

2012-01-05T07:13:00.000-06:00

This week has gone by so fast at school. It always does, so I'm surprised that it surprises me. I don't dislike going to work and my kids going to school, but I prefer the time to go by when they're home with me. It seems to move a little slower while they're here, ya know?

My mornings, in particular, seem to travel faster than the speed of light. I love my time at home when all is silent in the house. This week, I've been spending that time reading my Bible. I started the Youversion chronological Bible in a year plan. I use the app on my phone and then read it in my new Bible. It's easier to concentrate when there's not a lot going on around me. I've also been journaling...in the old fashioned way. Drew picked out a really cool new one for me for Christmas, and I'm working on fillings its pages. There is something so soothing about writing to me. I enjoy the actual handwriting part, too...and I love that my kids will have them handed down to them someday. They will see how many pages and hours I spent praying Scripture over them while they were in school...or how frustrated I was on a certain day...or how thankful I was that the Lord watched over Noah the night he was hit by a car. I love writing all of that stuff down...I occasionally look back over it myself to see what my year past was like. I'm always amazed at Him.

Speaking of Bibles, my sweet friend Kay came up to the school yesterday JUST to give me a really cool highlighter. She had read how much I love to mark my Bible up (or maybe she saw a picture), and she knew I would love this certain kind that she had. It doesn't bleed through the pages and it doesn't smear. Was that not the sweetest thing ever?? It made my day.

Kind of a cool way to end my time in the lunchroom...especially since it started kind of roughly.

Other than that little ten minute spell, it's been a great week back. Part of my job includes dispersing mail that comes in, and anytime after a break there's usually ten-twelve boxes full, although it's mostly junk. It always takes a few days to do, but my sweet friends divided it yesterday and did it for me. That made my day, too...not that I mind doing it, since it's my job, but that they were so thoughtful to use some free time to help me. They easily could have found something else to do. I love little acts of kindness, don't you?

Well. I think I hear laundry calling me. Hope your Thursday is wonderful! Love to all.

Who Are You?

2012-01-04T10:32:00.001-06:00

I can tell you who I am. Wife. Mother. Daughter. Sister. Aunt. Friend.

See those first two? I need to remember to be better at them. Especially the wife one. Do you struggle with this? I know women are the ones who read this, and I want to be real on here. I struggle with being a submissive wife. I'm pretty sure I laughed at that part during our wedding ceremony. I do not like the word submissive, and I don't like the meaning. Or, what I think some people might mistake for the meaning of the word.

I used to think submissive meant being a doormat. Someone the husband would "talk down to" and just get the benefit of being the boss.

But the real definition does not mean that at all! The real definition is this:

To yield. To defer to. (I really like that second one. And thank you, Merriam Webster for this definition.)

See the difference?

The Bible says for wives to respect their husbands. It also says that husbands should love their wives. The kind of love that leaves no doubt in the wife's mind that she is important and valued in the eyes of her husband. The kind of love that would fight hard for her if the need ever arose. The kind of love that makes her feel cherished.

It's funny how we have to respect and they have to love. But for women, to respect her husband IS to love him. Respect means (to me, anyway) putting him before myself. It means showing him that he alone gets the honor of knowing every little detail about me. It means that he is of tremendous worth and value in my eyes. It means showing him that I need him...and not just as someone else to help discipline the kids, but that I not only need him, but can't and wouldn't want to live without him.

Respect goes hand in hand with submit. Don't you think? You can't have one without the other.

I said all this to say that Todd and I are not perfect. We don't have the perfect marriage. We never have and we never will. We argue. Over stupid things. Like where I put his receipts. We even go to bed mad sometimes. (GASP!) And, yes, I know the Bible says not to do that.

We struggle with saying "I'm sorry". We both know that we should, but sometimes we just don't. At least until much later, and usually not face to face. (I know, I'm painting a pretty sad picture here.)

But in reading the Bible this morning, God revealed some fresh truths to me. I was reading in Job, too, which is crazy that I would find something that relates to marriage in this book of despair. One that I found is this:

"In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind." Job 12:10

I know...you're thinking, "What in the world does THAT have to do with marriage??" It has to do with that God created us all. He holds us all in the palm of His hand. All of us. Don't you think He knew of the differences between a man and a woman, since He created them both? He knew that wives needed to be treated a little gentler and that men needed to know that their wives respected and appreciated them. Our very breath came from Him. And with that very breath, we should only speak to each other in a way that will bring honor to Him. We should love and respect.

If He created us and breathed life into us, don't you think He can better our marriages? Or give us the strength to be the Godly spouse He calls us to be? (And I'm not talking about on Facebook, either. I am talking about REAL. Human. Imperfections and all.)

Admittedly, this post is for me this morning. I just thought I would share what God laid on my heart. Surely I'm not the only one this speaks to. Surely someone other than me sees the connection between marriage and Job. Surely.

Oh, and one more from Job:

"To God belong wisdom and power; counsel and understanding are his." Job 12:13

He will give us the strength, the wisdom, the power, the counsel and understanding we need to be who He called us to be.

So, I ask again...who are you?

Or Whose are you?

I am His.

Guess what?

I found my word for 2012.

Committed.

COMMITTED.

To carry into action deliberately. (Thank you, Merriam Webster.)

I am committing this year, 2012, to be a better, more Godly wife. Are you committing to anything this year? Care to share it?

Think about it. Love to all.

My Word For The Year

2012-01-04T06:57:00.000-06:00

I cannot think of one! I will gladly take suggestions from you.

Last year my word was "steadfast". I wanted to be more steadfast in my relationship with the Lord, but He in turn showed that He would be that to me.

I know some of you do this...what are your words?

I'm on the hunt...and I really need to find one before the end of January.

If you have suggestions, throw some my way! Are any of you doing this? I've noticed more and more people are catching on to the idea of this. One of my favorite authors has a whole book dedicated to this. It's called One Perfect Word and it's by Debbie Macomber.

Happy Wednesday to you...love to all!

Things I Love

2012-01-03T21:19:00.000-06:00

JESUS! That's a no-brainer, but He is always first and foremost on my mind. I love Him and want the world to, as well! Life with Him is amazing...I read some glorious Scriptures today about how He can do immeasurably more than we ask or imagine...(Ephesians 3:20 in particular, but I read verses 14-20). He is awesome and perfect and beautiful and love.

My husband. I love that he is constant. I love that we can sit in the same room and not say a word and be totally comfortable. He fills a void in my heart that nothing else can touch. He is also my best friend. I love how he sometimes reaches over and holds my hand. For no reason...except that he loves me. :)

The presence of my boys. I love being with them. We don't get many nights away from them...but because we don't want them. We love being with them and they love being with us. Especially during times that school is out...no bedtime, no wake-up time, eat whenever, do whatever (within reason)...they've got it good. And so do we, as their parents.

My new purple Bible. Thank you, Phyllis...it's perfect.

Sharpie push-top highlighters.

Index cards. I keep a stash in my purse at all times with Bible verses written on them. I'm always working on memorizing verses, and today I started my new set for 2012! The one I am currently memorizing is Numbers 6:24-26: The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace. (LOVE!!!)

Jonah's new attitude. He used to be somewhat shy. But all of a sudden (in the past six months or so), he has come completely out of his shell and is the most outgoing, funny eight year old I've been around in a long time. I especially love how Todd will be on the laptop with the tv on, and he will walk into the living room, grab the remote and say, "I'm just going to change it. I need to find my favorite show." Which happens to be...can you guess?

Cops. Or Coast Guard Alaska.

The simple life. It does not take much to make me happy, and I try hard to stay like that. It's not in my own strength, either, but everything is possible with God! Some passages in Scripture that help me are:

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Matthew 6:19-21

and:

"I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want." Philippians 4:20

The one from Philippians is posted on my laundry room cabinets. I put it there on an index card (SEE? I told you I love those things!!!) several years ago when I was hoping and praying that Todd wouldn't be able to repair my dryer. I was really wanting a set of front-loaders, but lo and behold, the man that I adore was able to repair the blasted thing. I posted it there to remind me to BE CONTENT in all that I have.

I am richly blessed. I tell myself that all the time.

Blogs and Facebook. I especially love TO blog, you all know that I love to write. I also love Facebook, and consider it a great tool to witness to people. I have been praying that God would make me more bold in that area of my life...not in your face witnessing, but in respectfully sharing the love of my sweet Jesus to those I know and love. So...be prepared. :)

Well groomed nails. Duh. Considering my OPI collection. Current favorite color (just in case you were dying to know) is Yodel Me On My Cell. It's a loverly shade of turquoise.

Noah's faux hawk. I love how different my sweet baby boy is and how he is not afraid to be that way. :) I also love his lady-killin' eyelashes. Especially when he bats them at me and smiles.

Movies! I just don't watch them that much, but man do I love a good movie. The kids and I went to see We Bought A Zoo on our break, and it was so good! The ending was perfect...which is also something I love. A movie that ends good.

Music. I love to sing and I so miss helping lead worship. But this morning, I had exactly that in my kitchen. My favorites: Travis Cottrell and Kari Jobe...or Gateway Worship, which is where she goes to church.

Losing myself in a book. I have some books that are on my "to-read" list: The Hunger Games trilogy and The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo...I've heard good things about both. I'm sharing The Hunger Games with Graham and Drew...so I'm letting them read it first. Maybe. Depends on how fast (or slow) they go. Until then, I am pacing myself with easier reading. Is there anything you think I would like that you care to recommend? I'm always up for suggestions!

Clean teeth. I love to floss and brush...especially right before bedtime.

Carmex. I think I might be addicted. (On a sidenote: when Drew was three or four, he re-named Carmex, Carlips. Makes perfect sense, right?)

Decorating! I just don't have all the resources to do it the way I'd like. However, I am the queen of re-purposing and repositioning what I already have out and about. In fact, I feel the need to do this sometime soon...the bug usually bites me right after the first of the year. Consider yourself forewarned; I'll probably give you a photo-tour when I'm done.

Taking pictures. I've always loved taking pictures...and not just of people, but of all things God created.

Pecans. Don't ask.

I'll stop for now (since I've gone on for sweet forever). What do YOU love?

I'd like to know.

Enjoy what's left of your night! Love to all.

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T23:40:00.000-06:00

I only have thirty seven minutes left of January 1, 2012, and I could not let the day end without a blog post for the new year.

How did you ring in yours?

We had some friends over last night...our neighbors and dear friends, Travis and Katie, Myles and Zander and some other of our dearest friends, David and Sunny Stalls, and two of their kiddos, Andy and Holly.

God has been infinitely good to us and has blessed us with some wonderful couple friends...and two of the sets are the ones listed above. I don't take them for granted, either...I hope I express to them how much I love them and how thankful I am for their presence in our lives. Life is not meant to be lived without friends, and we sure do enjoy ours!

In years past, we've gone to another friends' home...Brad and Marcia Coleman. They invited us this year, but since it's kind of a church function for them and we don't belong to that church anymore, we didn't go. I just thought it might be a little less awkward if we gracefully declined this year. So while this was a new way to celebrate for us, it was just as fun. We had yummy finger foods, we played games, we laughed, my hubby and I got in an argument playing cards (because what would cards be if Todd and I didn't argue at least once???), we sang, we danced, we drank Coke from glass bottles and lots of yummy sparkling grape juice. It was wonderful.

Today we slept in. :( I do feel moderately guilty about not going to church this morning. We were actually planning on going...but because I was awake for two hours in the middle of the night, we slept in. I did read my Bible, though. I also have prayed and am pondering a new "word" for my year.

I haven't thought of one yet. I've got some possibilities, but nothing I've decided fully on. Any suggestions? Any of you word-lovers out there? (I consider myself a word-lover. Because I love to read and write, and I LOVE to look in a thesaurus. I know...I'm building myself up for someone to make fun of. But go ahead, I am totally secure in who I am. And in WHOSE I am.)

Moving on.

We had our annual New Years' lunch with my Mom and Bill today. We had ribs, fries (for the kids), black-eyed peas, cabbage, turnip greens and cornbread. YUM.

We came home around four, and Todd took off to ride with the sheriff's department. It being New Years and all (and the fact that I really wanted to see my best friend for at least a little while), I invited my sweet friend Amanda over. Her kids Haley and Eli came with her...and she came bearing food from Carrabba's. (Her hubby manages the one in The Ville.) My kids were in heaven. It's always so fun catching up...and I have fun with her all the time. Whether we're with our kids or if we're alone. She's a great gal, and again...I am so thankful for her friendship.

If you're fortunate enough to have some great gals in your life, be thankful for them. As much as I love my husband and my boys, there is something about the friendship of a woman that fulfills a need in my heart that nothing else can. Don't ever take them for granted...not many women are so blessed. I am especially thankful for this precious lady, because this is the second time God has brought her into my life. The first time was when I was in seventh grade. Isn't that cool?

When her and her kids left, the boys and I decided to have an impromptu game night. We played Spoons. Have you ever played that?

How did you celebrate the new year? Anything fun and exciting? Any traditions?

Well, happy new year to you and yours! Love to all!

The 30th of December

2011-12-30T16:53:00.001-06:00

Wanna know what I did all day?

Read this. I started last night at eight and did nothing but sit and read the majority of the day. I did do a little laundry and I did not neglect Jonah and Noah. Graham and Drew helped me out by sleeping all day, though. By three thirty, I'd finished this book.

For those of you who need something visual, maybe this suits you better:

Do you read her books?

This lady's?

http://www.karenkingsbury.com/

I have read all of her books. All of these.

http://www.karenkingsbury.com/books

Yes, I have a problem. And yes, I need bigger bookshelves.

Not only do I read them, I get other people to read them. If you haven't, I urge you to try them. Although she is a phenomenal author, her writing inspired me to deepen my walk with the Lord a bunch of years ago. Well, six or seven. Coming up on seven. God speaks through the pages that she writes...and He uses her in ways that only He could.

There's a reason her books are called "Life Changing Fiction".

Try them. But have some Kleenex handy. She really brings out the tears. But man, is it worth it.

I was also the recipient of this.

And this.

I know. How blessed am I?

More than words can express.

Thank You, Lord, for Your many blessings.

How has your day been?

Love to all!

The Meaning of Christmas

2011-12-28T09:04:00.000-06:00

We know what the meaning of Christmas is. My kids know what the meaning of Christmas is. One of my favorite Bible verses that I memorized in 2011 (and my very first for the year) is James 1:17: All generous giving and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with Whom there is no variation or the slightest hint of change.

I love what gift giving symbolizes: that God gave us the ultimate gift, His son, so that we could have eternal life.

I love what Christmas time is: family. Lots and lots of family.

It's not rushing around, finding the perfect gifts (although we did some of that too, we just didn't make a big deal out of it). It is about quality time spent with those you love the most.

Like these. And all the other ones in my family I didn't get pictures of.

When I think back to some of my favorite times as a young child, they were always when I was with my family.

It's about being together.

It's about dinners shared around a table.

It's about time spent talking. And laughing. And enjoying one another.

I don't want my kids to remember time spent doing foolish things. I want them to remember how much we loved being with our family.

(And if you're reading this and you're in my family, but not pictured here, please don't be upset. I have other pics of you all, but they're on my phone. And I'm writing this while the boys are all sleeping. Just know that you're included.)

How did you spend your Christmas?

My beautiful niece Amanda is the one that inspired this blog post. She wrote a gorgeous portrayal of her Christmas spent with her husband and my darling grand-niece, Claire. You can click HERE to read what they did to celebrate. Thanks for the inspiration, Amanda. :)

Love to all.

Time

2011-12-24T09:56:00.002-06:00

I'm sitting in my living room in silence. The hubby and kids are still asleep, and the only one downstairs to keep me company is Crash. I haven't even turned on the Christmas tree...but then again, I never do. Noah is the official boy that does that everyday. He started this when he was three.

My furry companion is awfully curious this morning. He's not sure what to think about all the presents under the tree. He's been a good boy, though, and has not messed with the first thing. Ornament OR present. I'm proud of him.

I cannot believe that today is Christmas eve, and in a mere week we will be saying goodbye to 2011. Whatever happens to make time go by so quickly? It happens after you have kids. When you're young, time can't seem to move fast enough, and you're always wishing away those precious years. And then, when you become a parent, you can do nothing but watch it quickly slip out of your fingers. I so often want to just freeze time. I try really hard to enjoy the moment the boys are in. I don't always, but I do always try my hardest. Whether it's the not so fun argumentative times, the times when they think you don't know what you're talking about, or whether it's quite possibly their last year of innocence (as in believing in you know who). I know how important it is to live every moment like it's your last.

Time is precious. I want my kids to remember a loving home...not necessarily one that was the biggest or best decorated, but a home that was filled with love, laughter and warm memories. I was having an online conversation with a friend a few weeks ago who lost two (out of three) of her sons last Veteran's day. She would give anything in the world to enjoy one more Christmas with them. Just one more hug. One more conversation. One more "I love you". She probably wonders if she ever took time for granted, even though I'm sure she didn't. She was exactly the kind of mom that I hope to be for my boys.

I don't want to do that. I don't want to take one single moment for granted. I'm not the best mom. I'm not the most kind or the most patient. I completely fly off my handle sometimes and yell at them. And I'm sure that I will do this again....over and over again, until they're adults. But I don't want them to remember that. I don't want them to think that I talk "down" to them all the time, or that I always talked in a mean way. I want them to feel valued and treasured. Even if the story consists of something that takes Noah fifteen minutes to tell me. I want to be patient with them. I want them to remember that I was a flawed mom...but that I wasn't ever too proud to apologize to them.

Why do we let apologies be so painful? Why do we let wasted time spent in fights consume us so? If we would just stop and say those precious little words, and mean them...how much fuller would our lives be?

I'm so sad to say that my family will not all be together this Christmas. Some are not able to come because of living away, and some won't be there for other reasons. I know that it's hard on parents when all their children can't be with them.

I am challenging myself (feel free to join me) to make the most out of whatever time I am given. Time with my husband, with my boys, with our extended families, even time spent in the company of people I don't know. I'm challenging myself to make good use of that time. With strangers, I'm going to try and be more bold with my faith. I've been doing that this Christmas season, and I hope that I have planted some seeds. I hope that my "May God bless you this Christmas" has taken roots in someone's heart. I pray that God gives me courage to continue doing this all year long.

Looking back over the year, I remember in January that Klove radio station issued a challenge to all its listeners. The challenge was to find a word, any ONE word, and make it your word for the year. I'm sure you remember me talking about this...anyway, after much thought and careful deliberation over my one word (there are so MANY amazing words!!!), I decided on "steadfast".

STEADFAST.

Definition of STEADFAST

a : firmly fixed in place : immovable b : not subject to change steadfast doctrine of original sin — Ellen Glasgow>

: firm in belief, determination, or adherence : loyal steadfast>

I thought that the meaning of the word challenge was to "be" that word. It's funny how we always think one way, and God thinks a whole other way. (“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." Isaiah 55:8,9)

But that wasn't it at all. God showed me this year, 2011, that He was going to be steadfast to me. But in times when I wanted to quit...He wouldn't let me. In times when I wanted to give up, He was there to guide me another way. When I thought my heart would break over leaving our beloved First Assembly, He led us straight into another amazing body of believers...one that we have fit right into and that we now consider "home". When I didn't think I could memorize over twenty Bible verses in a year, He gave me the strength to keep pushing on. When I got frustrated at my husband for nothing at all (except that maybe he was breathing), He showed me that that was not appropriate for a Godly wife...and that I should say "I'm sorry".

He has been amazingly steadfast to me all this year. And He will continue to be steadfast to me, as long as I keep walking in His ways. I don't know why He is so good to me, but He is, and I give Him all the credit. I didn't "do" anything to deserve this unspeakable gift...and you don't have to, either. Grace is a free gift...for any and all who want it. All you have to do is ask, believe, confess...and He's all yours.

I don't really want anything else for Christmas this year. Even though I know I'll get gifts, His presence is the only thing I need. His grace is sufficient for me. It can be for you, too.

Well, I told you that someone would be awake by the time I was finished writing this. It kind of went all over the place didn't it? I just love when God reveals something to me, like He did this morning. He is so gracious to do that...to allow us little glimpses of Him. He's always there, always around....all we have to do is look for Him. I see Him in everything. The outdoors, my kids, sunshine, even in our animals...He is the wonderful Master, Creator of all...and He abides in me.

I hope the best for you this Christmas. I pray that you take the time to enjoy the moment you're in...and that you make some memories with those you love. Merry Christmas, and may my sweet Jesus bless you today, and every other day of your life.

"All generous giving and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with Whom there is no variation or the slightest hint of change." James 1:17

Just Some Stuff

2011-12-21T09:53:00.000-06:00

Our laptop chord bit the dust a couple weeks ago. And the battery was nothing to brag about. And while I do have a smart phone and a touch tablet, it's not quite the same as a laptop. Well, guess what came in yesterday??? Our chord! Woohoo!!! So, back to blogging for me. :)

My birthday was last Wednesday. I think I crossed over into a new age bracket. :( I'm now thirty-five. On the upside, I had a few people tell me I didn't look it. I love them.

I saw a facebook status that I loved this morning and thought I would share. It said: "I'm not ready for Christmas to be here in four days. Why? Because then it will all be over and the sweet spirit of Christmas will be gone. Let's keep the Spirit of Jesus alive all year." Isn't that true?

I am in love with the beautiful color on my nails right now. OPI's Black Onyx with Sephora's Sugar Plum Fairies Gone Wild on top. Black and purply-sparkles.

I am SO THANKFUL that God gave me such an amazing man for a husband. He might not "facebook-write" that he loves me as much as he does, but he doesn't have to. Instead of writing it for all the facebook world to see, he keeps it to himself and shows me every single moment of every single day how much he loves and cares for me. The little things he does on a day to day basis are more precious than almost anything to me. For instance, yesterday I had to call him and thank him for being so awesome. Why? Because he has done most of the Christmas shopping this year. DO YOU KNOW HOW MUCH I DETEST SHOPPING???????????

The "facebook-write" statement was a hit in the head revelation for me yesterday. I am always teasing Todd about how some men write how amazing and wonderful their wife is, and how the only time he writes it is when I hack into his profile. :) He knows I do this, yes. I was driving to get the boys yesterday (and praying at the same time) and all of a sudden, I prayed, "God thank you for a man who SHOWS me his unconditional love each day...not by writing it out on a (non)reality social network so people will see, but by doing all the things he does for me. Big and small. Like taking care of all the Christmas shopping."

I am so thankful for him. He is not perfect, but he is perfect for me. He's my husband, my best friend, and the greatest dad ever. He is always showing us the many ways he loves us. (And he doesn't resort to facebook PDA.)

I know, I know...I'm probably stepping on toes here. I don't mean to, honestly, I'm just writing out my thoughts.

Moving on.

I have read a LOT of Christmas books this year. A lot, a LOT. I love them. My favorite Christmas author is Debbie Macomber. I love all of her books, but her Christmas ones are just plain magical.

I read a funny blog on the Elf on a Shelf. Did you see it circulate on facebook? It cracked me up...and was so incredibly true. I was going to buy one, I'm not going to lie...but my husband (and now I, too) thinks it's the dumbest thing ever invented. How do you explain all the years PRIOR to the elf on a shelf? Hmmmmm?

I have watched a lot of Christmas movies in the past few days. One of which is Elf. I think it might be my all time favorite.

We got a new cable provider this week, and lots of my Christmas movies were deleted. :(

Well, I need a second cup of coffee, Evil Knievel needs to be scared with a newspaper, and my nose is running. Those are all good reasons to stop writing. And my kids might be hungry. But then again, they might not...they're in the dining room playing Life.

Enjoy your day! Love to all!

Tis the Season!

2011-12-11T09:30:00.001-06:00

I love Christmas time.

I love to see churches adorned with decorations.

I love all the red I see on women.

I love the Christmas carrolls we sing in service.

I love to celebrate my sweet Jesus.

Do you?

The Many Faces/Hair Colors of Me

2011-12-10T22:22:00.000-06:00

It's no joke that I get bored with my hair. If I can't change the style, I change the color. This weekend, I was a little in need of some touching up on the highlights. So, we did that. My mom and I. It's a several hour long process, starting with me at my house, then with me at her house. Sometimes I like the color, and sometimes I think, "What in the world was I thinking?"

So, this being the week that I officially hit "my mid-thirties", I thought I would show you what this weekend looked like. From my poor husband's perspective.

This was Friday. And, of course, the color looks good considering I'm about to change it a little.

This was Saturday afternoon. In order to get the blond out, I always have to go darker first. That's the first step. My hair has to be completely dry before we can highlight it.

Next step, Mom's house.

Last step. It's highlighted again (a little more this time, and a different color), and dried. And all the lipstick came off from consuming the yummy dinner we had just finished. (This handsome man is my nephew, Tyler. We share the same birthday, and tonight we celebrated at my mom's house.)

I don't know which I like better...I know I definitely prefer it highlighted. I just don't know for sure if I like all the extra highlights I have this time. It is different, and I do always like that. I'm sure I'll get used to it...it's always just an adjustment. And kind of a shock when I happen to see it in a bathroom mirror in the middle of the night.

I know this post is very different, but since it's the week I hit my mid-thirties, I thought, "Why not?"

Welcome to the many sides of me. Love to all.

My Life is a Comedy

2011-12-07T19:20:00.001-06:00

Seriously. I totally "get" my sister Debi thinking Ashton Kutcher is always hiding around the corner with the crew of that show Punk'd. I get it.

As I write this, Evil Knievel is banned to the dog bed. He's sulking because he's in trouble, and Andy the Wonder Dog is pacing the floor. My downstairs flows from one room into the next, and he's made the circle a good ten times in half that many minutes. Maybe it's because he's a little in trouble himself. He growled at me when I tried to get the bone back that he stole from EK.

(And if you haven't figured it out yet, the pup is EK only when he's been bad.)

I have to admit that I'm a little bothered by Andy when he growls. It's not a little whimper. It's a deep down, from his gut sound that makes my hair stand on edge.

Even though I don't think he would bite me, I smacked him with the rolled up newspaper I was about to smack EK with. Just because I had it handy and because he scared the daylights out of me.

Maybe this is my payback for not going to Bible study tonight.

As much as I love it, I didn't finish the week's homework. And that bothers me. Plus, Jonah and Noah didn't really want to go watch themselves perform their Christmas program. And they would have sat there for 45 minutes doing just that, before moving on to RA's.

Not that I always let them decide what to do, but after my busy week and crazy afternoon, it just seemed like a good idea to stay home tonight. Graham and Drew went, though...I just dropped them off.

It's one of the bonuses of living within walking distance to your church. Amazing, I tell you. Simply amazing.

Anyway...because of the snow, EK is having to take care of his business in the front yard. The back yard is a muddy/snowy swamp. So before I fed the dogs, I asked Noah to take them outside. I fed them, and they came in. Well, Andy came in all nice and calm. EK bounded in like a bat out of hell (not cursing at you, I'm talking about the place), stepped in Andy's dog bowl and managed to get Andy's food all over kingdom come.

All while poor Andy looked on with his little sad eyes.

Thinking (because not only do our animals think, they speak to us), once again, "You got me a new furry friend WHY???".

I could almost hear him sigh in frustration. Hence the pacing.

Noah tried to clean up the dog food, but I finally gave up. So Andy and EK got a little bonus dinner tonight. Or maybe it was doggy dessert. Oh, wait...nope. Dessert was the popcorn that kept dropping to the floor while we ate.

So you see why we were forced to eat this for dinner.

It's got some dairy content, right? And grains from the chips?

Does this go well with the popcorn and hot chocolate they all had at five o'clock?

I know, I know...I'm making you jealous with my mad parental skills. ;-)

Don't judge.

It's hard to believe that something this cute can be so much trouble. But he is sometimes. I know he's a puppy and all, but sometimes he is so mischievous. I keep thinking 'memories, memories, MEMORIES!!!

When I think of the memories we'll have from him and how, someday, he will be a wonderful (non-mischievous) companion, it makes it all worth while.

Sometimes we just have nights like these.

I'm treasuring them. I promise, I am treasuring them. I wouldn't trade one single second of my life for all the money in the world. I know my boys will have wonderful memories of their childhood...not because of us, but because of all the crazy fun we had when they were young.

I know someday I will miss Drew singing a mixed up Christmas carol about why I should be thankful that he likes to play with matches. (Do not freak out. He doesn't.)

I know someday I will miss the sound of Jonah and Noah pooting in the tub while they take a bath.

I know someday I will miss having messes to clean up. Or will I???

All too soon they will not be around for me to have funny stories to write to you about. That makes me sad.

And as for all the above...even if I am going a little bit crazy, this is my life and I love it.

Thank You, Lord, for Your many blessings. I am overflowing.

Love to all.

Let It Snow!

2011-12-07T09:55:00.000-06:00

I woke up to a HUGE surprise this morning!

SNOW!

I don't ever remember it snowing in Memphis before Christmas. It might have...just not that I remember. Isn't it beautiful??

It was like a winter wonderland driving all the kids to school this morning.

I think our house looks the prettiest all dressed up in the white stuff. :)

What a blessing this was today! I only wish they had cancelled school...but there's always the possibility of early dismissal or no school tomorrow. I'm praying!

I hope you all take the time to enjoy it today. I know I will!

This is good enough to make my sister Debi proud...since she's buried under in Colorado. Not that this holds a candle, but for Memphis...pretty good, I'd say!

Love to all!

Blessed

2011-12-06T21:28:00.001-06:00

Apparently, this is yet another title that I use frequently. The blog remembers it, for goodness sake. If that tells you anything.

Moving on now.

I thought I would share why I feel this way right now. Sunday night we were honored to be able to attend the sweetest Christmas musical I have ever been to. It was at our church, and it was all done by kids. It was led by an amazingly talented lady, and the only people in it were kids. Not kids that had perfect voices, or who looked a certain way. Not kids that were hired so that it would be more "perfect". But just precious, simple, everyday, kids.

And two of mine were in it.

Jonah and Noah have never been in an all (and only) kids program. I have to be honest and tell you that they were not thrilled with the prospect of this...but at my prodding, they toughed it out. And by the time Sunday night rolled around, they were so excited about being in it. They were even more excited at all the family that came to see them. We are so blessed to live near family and all these grandparents. With the exception of Mimi, they were all in attendance. (She couldn't come because of the Christmas program at her church.)

I will also admit that I cried through the majority of it. Several little girls sang so beautifully that I was blinking furiously to keep the tears from falling. They still fell, though. I couldn't help it. It was so sweet and pure, and it was from their hearts. Hearts with nothing in mind but spreading the love of Jesus. They weren't focused on perfection and whether or not everything went without any glitches. They focused only on Who mattered the most...and He was glorified during their performance. They were all singing for Him.

The other reason I feel so blessed is that tonight I got to cook dinner for one of the sweetest men I know. Well, actually Graham did the majority of the cooking, but I helped. Today is my sweet stepdad's birthday. Bill is so much more than just a stepdad. He is caregiver, brother, son, chef, friend, husband, Dad and Big Daddy. I am so thankful for the day that my mom met him. Our lives were forever changed that day...and only for the good.

He takes care of my mom. He cooks most of their meals. He provides...not only for Mom and him, but for others. There were times when we didn't know where our next medical bill payment was going to come from, and he came to the rescue. He loves our boys in a way that only he can...and it is mutual. He cooks them their favorite meals, and has almost once a week since they were babies. We've eaten with them weekly since the week after we returned from our honeymoon...it's something we've always enjoyed, and the time we spend with him and Mom is priceless.

Bill was told one time by a complete stranger, that Noah looked just like him...there was no denying HIS grandson. :) He shares his food with them...like the time when Drew told him, "Big Daddy, dip that sandwich in that gravy and give me another bite." (He was eating a French dip from McAllister's.) He just shared the nacho's from there the other night after the children's program. And I'm pretty sure he always gives Drew the better half.

He finally got smart and stopped asking Drew what he wanted in restaurants...and just started ordering him whatever he ordered himself. Like shrimp scampi. Or salmon. Or steak. Yes, he has introduced them all to those lovely expensive foods.

He has been around for meltdowns (mine and the kids), he has seen Todd mad when his team lost, happy when they won, he's witnessed Drew almost falling down a mountain, he's traveled with all of my kids for hours on end, and he's heard them all snore. Or sing in their sleep. Ahem, Jonah.

He has filled in the gaps for me on many occasions in school...like when Todd is either out of town or unable to come to a special event that requires dads.

Saying we appreciate and love him don't do this man justice. But we do. We are blessed to have him in our family. He makes us proud. We are truly blessed. I thank God for him.

Bill, if you're reading this, "Rawr means"...well, you know. We do.

:)

Happy birthday, Big Daddy! RAWRRRRRRRR!!!

Happy (Rainy, Blah) Monday

2011-12-05T10:30:00.000-06:00

Psalm 136

1 Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good. His love endures forever.
2 Give thanks to the God of gods. His love endures forever.
3 Give thanks to the Lord of lords: His love endures forever.
4 to Him Who alone does great wonders, His love endures forever.
5 Who by His understanding made the heavens, His love endures forever.
6 Who spread out the earth upon the waters, His love endures forever.
7 Who made the great lights-His love endures forever.
8 the sun to govern the day, His love endures forever.
9 the moon and stars to govern the night; His love endures forever.
10 to Him Who struck down the firstborn of Egypt His love endures forever.
11 and brought Israel out from among them His love endures forever.
12 with a mighty hand and outstretched arm; His love endures forever.
13 to Him Who divided the Red Sea asunder His love endures forever.
14 and brought Israel through the midst of it, His love endures forever.
15 but swept Pharaoh and his army into the Red Sea; His love endures forever.
16 to Him Who led His people through the desert, His love endures forever.
17 Who struck down great kings, His love endures forever.
18 and killed mighty kings-His love endures forever.
19 Sihon king of the Amorites His love endures forever.
20 and Og king of Bashan-His love endures forever.
21 and gave their land as an inheritance, His love endures forever.
22 an inheritance to His servant Israel; His love endures forever.
23 to the One Who remembered us in our low estate His love endures forever.
24 and freed us from our enemies, His love endures forever.
25 and Who gives food to every creature. His love endures forever.
26 Give thanks to the God of heaven. His love endures forever.

Isaiah 55

8 "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD.
9 "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.
10 As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater,
11 so is my word from my mouth: it will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.

Our weekend...

2011-12-04T08:10:00.000-06:00

It's been another amazing weekend. (Aside from some REALLY strange dreams I've been having.) The parade Friday night was so much fun. My dad went with us, and once we were there, we met up with some friends. I never get tired of watching this...and someday, when my kids are all too cool to go with me, I will probably just go find someone with kids that are still little enough to enjoy it.

I love it.

There was a little boy that got ran over, though...I don't know the whole story, but he got ran over by a float. So, if you think of him, pray for him...I'm assuming he's pretty young.

My mom and I did some Christmas shopping on Saturday...hers, not mine. I helped her shop for the boys, and I picked out my birthday and Christmas from her. :) I came home and did a little bit of cooking for a couple different parties, and we all split up. Jonah and Noah went next door to our neighbors, Graham and Drew went to a Wyldlife party, and Todd and I went to our (new) Sunday school class party. It was a really fun night...I think we finally found a good match for us in Sunday school. Before we started coming to our new church, we had not attended Sunday school in two years. Not because we couldn't get there, but because there wasn't one that we felt like we fit into. At our new church, there are tons of options in classes, and you're encouraged to visit as many as you can. Because sometimes it takes a long time to find that one that "fits".

I think we found it, though. :)

After the party, we gathered up our kids, and I went over to my best friend's house. Just for some girl time. We're trying to make more of an effort to get together more often...even if it's in short amounts...because it's really important. And who doesn't need time like that??

Today we have church, and tonight is Jonah's and Noah's Christmas program. I cannot wait! I don't know how excited they are, but I'm thrilled. For those of you who know Jonah, this is a huge step for him...he is such a behind-the-scenes kind of kid. Like his daddy. For him to willingly get up on a stage with a big group of kids and sing, all while people are watching him, is a huge milestone. He did this one year a few years ago at our old church, and there was a boy who was cutting up behind Jonah. All the bigger kids watching were laughing at that boy, and Jonah burst into tears, thinking they were all laughing at him. It was awful. Todd had to go up to the stage, pick him up, and carry him out of the chapel.

God love his little heart.

So you see how huge this is for him. I'm so excited...and I will be praying for my sweet little Jonah bug this afternoon...for him not to be nervous or apprehensive.

Well, that's about all we've done...our weekend in a nutshell. It's been a great one...and it's not even over yet. :) Hope you've all enjoyed yours. Love to all!

Chore Problems? Anyone?

2011-12-01T19:15:00.000-06:00

I've had a killer headache all afternoon. :-( Which is probably why, when I came home from work, I did nothing but sit in my recliner and watched t.v. I watched this week's episode of Glee, then watched an hour of Friends. Graham and Drew had a basketball game at school that they stayed after for, and my neighbor picked up all the kids.

It was blessed silence.

Well, kind of.

Dinner cooked in the crock pot all day, so all I had to do was add the veggies and potatoes to make it complete. We ate together, and my sweet hubby cleaned the kitchen for me afterward.

So...the chore issue mentioned in the title...it's no secret that we have four children. And messy ones, at that. They're required to take care of the animals (at least help with it...but this is something we all do), and they're required to carry all their (folded) laundry upstairs and to put it all away. They're responsible for keeping their rooms clean, and recently I've made them start cleaning their own bathroom. Because it's gross and why in blue blazes would I want to do that???

Ugh. At least I can hit the water. That's all I'm sayin'.

They also have to change the little boxes and clean the backyard.

Lately, they've slacked off in this area. One thing they have NOT slacked off from, though, is having fun. There are ALWAYS extra kids in this house...whether they're some of the ones I pick up in the the afternoon, or friends...it doesn't matter. They love having friends over, and it's almost always a party in either my yard or the playroom. So tonight, we decided we're going to have to start grounding them from the phone. Todd even threatened to put an auto-reply for all the texts they get, saying why they're grounded from the phone.

Sound mean?

We are officially over it. There's no reason why any of these boys should walk by a full trash can and not take out the trash. Or bring the trash can up the driveway on trash pickup day. And I don't want to have to tell them. I do enough talking as it is, without me having to remind them of what they should be doing.

Is that so unreasonable???

I feel they should take responsibility. Because we're not just raising boys. We're raising future husbands and fathers. And this is life. As much as it kills me to say this, we are not superheroes. ;-) We are hard working people that require the kids to pull their own weight. I do all the cooking and (most of the) cleaning, I wash, dry and fold their clothes, and I make sure that things stay organized enough so they will know where to put their belongings.

It's not that difficult to stay that way.

So, now that I have completely and totally vented on you...I'm thinking it's better that I wrote this instead of screamed it at them. ;-) Is it my headache that's making me feel that way?

I don't know. But tonight, when I go to bed, the upstairs will be all nice and clean. It's better to work on that tonight rather than the weekend, don't you think?

Do you have problems with this in your house? If so, share! I am always looking for new ideas.

Enjoy what's left of your night. Love to all!

P.s. In case you don't think that I ever completely and totally lose it with the boys, I'm thinking today I lived up to the sign that rests above my bedroom door. The one that my sister Lisa handed down to me. The one that reads:

Beware of attack mother.

:-) I'm telling you...I have bad days.

Goings On

2011-12-01T07:13:00.000-06:00

Happy Thursday! We are officially on countdown mode till the weekend. :) Are you? I feel like I'm always counting down to something...although, I promise, I am NOT trying to rush through this life of mine! I'm usually counting down until we're out of school. Like for the weekend, a long break, or summer...stuff like that. I love being with my family. Bet you didn't know that, huh?

I'm so excited about the parade tomorrow night. Even though it will be freezing. That just makes it better!!! We will definitely be loading up on the blankets, gloves, coats, and hats. I'm sure Todd will be dressed up in his hunting coveralls. I love that man. I love him even more because he is manly and he is a redneck. I tell him all the time that he's my favorite. :)

So after yesterday's fun with Beth Sansone's Elf on a shelf, I'm totally thinking about buying one. I had way too much fun messing up her classroom! I'm hoping they're still available...so then I can home and mess up some things downstairs before all the kiddos get home from school. I'm pretty sure I can enlist Graham and Drew to help me. They love doing stuff like that now that they're older and know "the secret".

So, Graham and Drew keep talking me into driving them to school in the mornings. And I keep giving in. Not that I mind. I actually enjoy the extra time with them in the mornings, and they enjoy not having to rush to get out the door. I guess next year, they'll just be car riders all the time. Since they'll be in a new (farther away) school.

You will be pleased to learn that our puppy is doing better. For the moment. He really is a cute little thing, and I love the joy he brings my husband and boys. Todd, especially, LOVES him. He told me so last night. As the pup was asleep on his chest, snoring quietly. I think even Andy the Wonder Dog loves him. He sure does enjoy chasing him around in the backyard every morning. It's nice that he has a (sometimes annoying) playmate.

Well, I need to go fold clothes and dig out some jeans for Graham to wear today. I hope all of you have a blessed day. Love to all!

Things That I Love

2011-11-30T16:58:00.000-06:00

Pinterest. At least this one's semi-productive. There are all kinds of ideas on this website, but be prepared to spend a LOT of time looking. I only do it when my kids are in bed or occupied with something else.

Beth Sansone. She is the most amazing teacher. E.V.E.R. Today she asked me to be the Elf on a shelf she has in her room. Oh, the fun!!! That naughty Elf stacked chairs on kids' desks, tipped over Mrs. Sansone's chair, scattered water bottles, threw a yoga ball away...he was one naughty little fella!

Time with the boys after school. Right now, Drew and I are enjoying a nice conversation. He's telling me what they're doing tonight in youth. Which happens to be the wheel of doom. Think Fear Factor...and that's what they're doing tonight. :) I love our church.

Bible study. I am so thankful for a group of ladies that continue to meet!!! I already know that after Christmas, we're starting Beth Moore's newest one. James: Mercy Triumphs. :)

My amazing family. I love my parents (all 6 of them). And my step parents. And my sisters. And my niece and nephews.

Cold weather. I am telling you...I could live in Alaska, and I would be in Heaven.

Well...I gotta fix dinner. Love to all.

What's More Important?

2011-11-30T14:53:00.000-06:00

A perfect house, or a messy one filled with laughter and love?
Time with family, or time spent doing trivial things?
Taking the time and participating in traditions, or making sure everyone is in bed on time every night?

I am only asking these rhetorically. Of course, I know which is more important in each question, but my point is this: I have to remind myself of this daily. I so easily get "sucked in" to needing to have a ~~spotless~~ really clean house. I also feel the need to spend countless amounts of time doing things that don't matter. Facebook, blogging, reading...instead of spending quality time with my kids. Doing things that they ask me...like reading their favorite stories to them, or taking them to the library, or for ice cream...things like that.

My goal is to say "yes" more to them. Like when they beg if they can please, please, please sleep in the playroom, because it's a special night. Yes. Or when they want me to make them hot chocolate. Yes. Or when they want to leave the house at 7:30 with a cat and both the dogs and go drive around looking at Christmas lights. Yes.

Get my drift?

I'm nowhere near the perfect mom. I say " no" too much. I am guilty of all the things I listed above. I pray every single day that I will enjoy the moment I am in with my kids...and I thank God that I have them here on earth with me. I don't ever want to take a moment for granted. Not one single moment.

Do you want to join me in saying "yes" more? This is the perfect time of year to start. Why not start some new traditions? I know that before long, these days will be nothing but a memory. Why not live a little?

Love to all.

:-(

2011-11-28T07:13:00.000-06:00

I'm sad because our blessed Thanksgiving break is over. It was, indeed, blessed. The day was so incredibly peaceful. I woke up to the sound of Crash whimpering at 6:30, so I took advantage of the time alone and got a jump start on breakfast. I enjoyed some coffee by my lonesome and did some praying...mostly, some thanking.

The family started coming downstairs one by one, and slowly, our day began. We watched the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade, and before we knew it, it was time to go to my sister's.

Where we ate way too much. But it was oh so yummy!

We went to some friends' house for that night...our friends David and Sunny invited us out to her mom's house. It was a nice touch being with friends on that day...and there were lots of kids there, so of course, they all had a blast.

The next day we decked our halls. :-) We ended the day at Zoo Lights, which was amazing this year.

The whole break went like that, though...unrushed, peaceful, and full of quality family time. We are so blessed.

And then, at church yesterday, we had communion...which was the perfect end to this time off. I absolutely love the way Brother Chuck does communion at our church. He makes the whole service about the importance of communion, and I have never taken it there without crying. I'm pretty sure the people next to me thought I was loco. I was doing really well with keeping the tears in, until he had us close our eyes to pray. The minute that my eyes closed, the tears started falling. And falling and falling.

It was just so touching, and I really felt an anointing in the sanctuary. It's always so reverent. It's a beautiful time together, as a church body.

So, I think I'll end on that note. And maybe my sad face title should be a happy face. Because, really, God is so good. I can't even comprehend His goodness sometimes. But He loves us faithfully, unconditionally and completely.

Spend some time with Him today...and be blessed. Love to all.

traditions

2011-11-26T08:27:00.000-06:00

I love them. I have my favorites that we do during this time of year. Do you?

What are yours?

One of ours started last night. We celebrated Thanksgiving with my Dad and Sandy. We always go out to his house the Friday after Thanksgiving at around four and eat an early dinner. The boys always play football outside while we clean up inside, and they walk around, admiring his thousands of Christmas lights. After everything is cleaned and leftovers have been divided, we head to the Zoo for Zoo Lights. And last night, we were not disappointed.

They were beautiful. It seemed so much better this year...so if you are thinking about going, then I encourage you to go. There were more lights, I think maybe because News Channel 3 sponsored it, and there didn't even seem to be that many people there. I'm sure there were...but it didn't seem like it. They used to give carriage rides, but when they brought in the ice skating rink they did away with that and made the tram free for everyone.

It was wonderful. :)

Some more of my traditions start this week. Tuesday night is the Christmas tree lighting on the square, and Friday night is our parade. I'm bummed because Todd is working on Tuesday night. He even asked me about it ahead of time, but I answered without looking at my calendar. I don't know if he can change it or not, but I'm going to see if he can. If he can, then great. If not...then we'll be okay, although I will miss him. (Sniff, sniff.)

I'm hoping to see my best friend this week...I might ask if her and her kids will go with us Tuesday night if Todd can't change it and if her husband is working. I know her daughter is older...but I ran into them last year, so hopefully that will work out.

So yesterday was the most wonderful day ever. :) My sweet hubby started helping me get Christmas decorations out of our attic the minute he was dressed. (He'd gone out at eleven and again at one-something, not returning until three a.m.) We got most of it done...the important stuff, anyway. Our tree is up and all the living room is finished. I have some tweaking to do in the kitchen and dining room, and we have to put up our staircase bannister holly and get the outside finished. And I need to pull out the Christmas dishes. :) I love this time of year! Love, love, love it. It is my most favorite.

Speaking of this time of year, I recently heard about a book that I'm going to buy today. It's called Untangling Christmas. You can go HERE to take a look and see what's about, if you're interested.

It's all about getting organized and realizing and focusing on what is important this Christmas season. There's even a section on "traditions" and some ideas for new ones.

Right up my alley.

Some of our other traditions include driving around looking at Christmas lights, and special seasonal events that will (hopefully) take place at our (still kinda new) church.

What are some of your traditions?

Feel free to share them.

Until then...I have to go. I have pies in the oven for some of our shut-ins from church. We're delivering Thanksgiving meals to them today.

Enjoy your day! Love to all!

black friday, schmack friday

2011-11-24T21:38:00.000-06:00

I don't get what the big deal is about black Friday. All I do know is that I heard a lot of talk about this today. Much more about this subject, in fact, than about the love of Jesus. That makes my heart so incredibly sad.

I kept on thinking to myself, "What if people got this excited about sharing the love of God? What if we made it a planned effort to make sure people did know about Him?" Or what if, at the very least, we let people see Him alive in us? In the way we live, speak, think, and act?

I'm not bashing black Friday...at least I don't mean to. I know that it is super exciting for some people to save so much money on some big ticket Christmas gifts. But the whole thought of all of it just makes me more than a little sad.

When did finding the perfect gift take such priority in our lives? When did conversations revolve around asking everyone what they wanted for "the big day"? What ever happened to just giving a gift...and if you liked it, great...and if not, then you'd better act like you did?

I guess I'm like this because I don't like to shop. I know for some people it's a rush, saving all that money, and there have been years that Todd has participated in those deals. I never have...because of my dislike of shopping. And those years, it was great that Todd could save money, so that it stretched what we had to spend. At those times, I was thankful for a husband who would brave the crowds for his kids...because if it were left to me, I would just pay full price rather than having to deal with the throngs of people.

But still, I don't get it.

One of my favorite parts of gift giving is taking my time and picking the perfect gift for one of my loved ones. How do you like to give gifts?

I know that I am different. I know that my mind works differently than most people's. I'm thankful God made us all that way. It's just that I'm a very simple person. That's all.

Don't hate me for this post...I'm just speaking my thoughts. After all, that's what a blog is for, isn't it?

Are YOU braving the crowds tonight? Tomorrow morning? If so, I will be thinking of you while I rest peacefully in my warm, cozy bed. ;-)

What are some things your kids are asking for this year? Mine have their lists all ready for Santa...and I am happy to say that they are pretty simple this year. They even put candy on their lists, if that tells you anything. I am grateful for a simple year. That is what I love the most...a list free of crazy, electronic gadgets.

The thing I have on my agenda that is at the top of my list for tomorrow is my house...and getting it all prettied up for Christmas! I have tomorrow and Saturday to do just that...part of both days. I intend to use them to my advantage.

Love to all.

Turkey Day!

2011-11-24T11:54:00.000-06:00

I am so thankful for this day...a day to give God thanks for Who He is in my life.

He is love, joy, peace, comfort, healer, physician, provider, friend, fortress, strength, the only One I can always turn to. The gift I am most thankful for is the one that only He can give...life everlasting. Life will never come without its ups and downs, but I am thankful that He is there to carry me through when I can't walk on my own.

He is the best Friend I have.

He alone can satisfy my every need.

He is the One who created this amazing family that I have...my sweet husband, my kids...and the blessing of good health.

He knew how boring we would be if He created us all the same, so He made us all with unique qualities and characteristics...and my crazy kids keep us laughing.

He gave us many (many, many) people to love on in our extended families.

He gave us the gift of friends...my heart is so happy and full of love for all the dear ones in my life who've sent me 'happy Thanksgiving' texts this morning.

I hope you have a wonderfully blessed, happy Thanksgiving. I know I will. Love to all, my friends!

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-23T22:19:00.000-06:00

At this moment, all is quiet in my house. I'm watching Something To Talk About with Julia Roberts and Dennis Quaid. I think it's from the mid-nineties. The music is terrible, but it's something to make noise in my quiet living room.

Todd is working tonight. Graham, Jonah and Noah retired to the upstairs to watch one of their recorded shows. Drew is laying down with a cool rag on his forehead (his stomach hurts), waiting on me to wake him up so he can move to Todd's side of the bed until he comes home.

Even all the animals are sleeping. And yes, that includes Evil Knievel. Speaking of him...is it mean to rename a dog after he's three and a half months old? I really don't like his name...which is still Crash. EK is just a nickname. And if it's not mean...do you have any mischievous looking dog name recommendations?

If so, send them my way. I really can't force myself to call him Evil. And Crash isn't much better.

Other happenings...I am on ebook number three!! I absolutely LOVE not having to have a light to read my book! The other day I was multi-tasking...folding laundry and reading at the same time. I've gotten some free books off Amazon, and I've bought three now. The most expensive one so far was $10...the other two were less than $5. Not bad, huh?

Tomorrow morning includes several traditions for us. One is the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. I am such a child at heart...I still get so excited over this parade. :) Love it! The other is our Thanksgiving day breakfast. It's cheese and sausage biscuits...which taste almost exactly like sausage balls. Yum! I can't wait for tomorrow. I wonder if I'll be able to talk the hubs into a Thanksgiving night movie?

We'll see, I guess. I don't know how he'll feel about that. There are a couple that I want to see, one of which is Jack and Jill, the new Adam Sandler movie. I love him, and I've heard it was okay for kids to see.

As much as it kills me to admit it, the puppy is growing on me. He proved himself to me all day yesterday while I was home, sick on the couch. He stayed by my side all day...and never had one accident during that time. He also loves to cuddle. I hope he stays little enough to do that, though...he's grown in the two weeks we've had him. And three different people have commented on how big his paws were. Yikes. I really don't want him to be big. Especially because he loves to sleep on the couch.

If I don't write again tomorrow, I hope you all have a blessed, happy Thanksgiving. I know I will. Love to all!

I'm thankful for...(part 2)

2011-11-23T16:17:00.000-06:00

the sound of my kids' and their friends voices in my front yard playing a brisk game of flag football.
a cozy (clean!) home to come home to after spending an afternoon with the crazies driving around.
a son who knows where the sausage is in Kroger. And that he likes to go in alone. :)
answered prayers over my family...immediate and extended.
God's provision for our safety today as a lady pulled right out in front of me, almost making me rear end her.
kids that like to bake.
chocolate cupcakes. :)
friends.
boys that will help me out around the house without complaining.
the question, "Mom, can I do anything for you?".
a husband who works tirelessly to provide for our family. I will miss you tonight, honey!
a quiet evening at home. I'm thinking we might find a movie to watch and have some yummy comfort food.
pets. Our lives would be so boring without Andy the Wonderdog, Twinkles, Skippy and Evil Knievel.
books! We just got home from the library. :) My happy place. I got a whole bag full.

And lots more...but once, again, I'll stop for now. Enjoy your evening! Stay warm and kiss your babies tonight. Love to all.

I'm Thankful For

2011-11-22T19:16:00.000-06:00

a loving husband that takes care of me when I feel under the weather.
a mom who understands why I can't help her cook tonight, and is not mad at me.
a sister who stepped in and took my place at Mom's house tonight.
a mom-in-love who works in the school's health room every Tuesday.
a mom-in-love who leaves the health room to come pick up the boys' lunches when I call in sick.
a puppy who cuddled with me all day on the couch while I took my many naps.
chex mix. It's the only thing that tastes good to me right now.
a good book to read.
a comfy couch to sleep on.
a warm bath when I am freezing. (Last night, not right now.)
a tenderhearted boy that picks up on when I'm not feeling good and keeps on coming to check on me.

And lots more, but for now, this is all. Love to all.

You know your day might not be the best when...

2011-11-22T06:48:00.001-06:00

You're up half the night with a stomach ache. :-(

Your eyes pop open at 4:48 a.m., realizing that, yup...you still don't feel great.

Evil Knievel has been out of his kennel for ten minutes, and he is already on your last nerve.

You see that it's raining. Pouring, actually. Again.

You wake up your kids 20 minutes early (because they tell you to), and they don't get up. And they're still twenty minutes late coming down the stairs.

You consider treating the pup like a baby and laying him down for his nap every couple hours. Just because he bugs the daylights out of me. And Andy the Wonder Dog.

You look forward to a night out...with your mom, cooking for the big Thanksgiving meal on Thursday. :-)

Actually, I think it'll turn out okay. At least, that's what I'm praying. Happy Tuesday and love to all.

Thanksgiving Feast and Monday Stuff

2011-11-21T20:01:00.000-06:00

Today was a blessed, fast day. We were really short handed at work, which made for a very fast-paced day. I'm so thankful that two of the amazing assistants insisted on being with me the entire time...and eating their lunches after all the kids' lunches were over. They even let me sneak out five minutes early so I could be at Jonah's and Noah's Thanksgiving feast. I love the people I work with. I'm blessed to be a part of an amazing school.

Jonah's and Noah's Thanksgiving feast was so much fun. The only thing missing was their sweet teacher, Beth. She had to stay home today because she is sick. I feel so bad for her...this is one of the funnest things they do in third grade, and she had to miss it. I was happy to see another teacher's mom in there subbing, though. She is the sweetest lady and reminds me of my mom. She's a fun sub and the kids love her. Jonah and Noah even gave her a goodbye hug before I checked them out early.

GASP!

Yes, I am so that mom. I love checking my kids out early any time I can. I can't let them "skip" certain days anymore, since I work there and all, so this makes up for it. I will take any excuse I can get...field trip days, field days, class parties...I'll take any day I can get. I love checking them out early. Today it was a whole two hours. Especially since the teacher wasn't there...all the more reason. :)

I cooked dinner tonight...an actual thought-out, time-put-into-it, dinner. Too bad it's making me feel sick to my stomach. :( I think I need some Prilosec. Or Pepcid. Something like that. BLAH.

Well, our first Christmas movie of the season is almost finished. The boys were channel surfing earlier, and saw that Snow Buddies was on...so, Todd and I are watching it. Yup, you read right. Todd and I. Not any other humans. Just the furry ones, Todd and I. They're all upstairs playing a video game. Since it's been rainy today and all.

Enjoy your evening! We will. :) Love to all!

Rain, Rain, Go Away

2011-11-21T07:15:00.000-06:00

I used to not mind the rain.

And then, we were bombarded by a puppy's life.

So now, I'm not so crazy about the rain.

It's also going to make for an interesting day of all the little third grade Pilgrims taking all their food items into school this morning. And the car line...oh my goodness gracious...the car line. I might as well plan on leaving at 8:30, because it's always backed up on rainy days.

But you know what? I love my life. The Lord has blessed us richly...way more than we could ever ask for or deserve. I'm so thankful that we don't have to earn His love. Because if we did, we would never earn it. I am so thankful for His love. I am so thankful for my family. I am thankful that we get to spend a rainy, yucky Monday together. It doesn't get much sweeter.

Hope you all have a blessed day. Love to all.

James 1:17 All generous giving and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or the slightest hint of change.

Thank You, Lord.

a little fun, a little disappointment, a little sick

2011-11-20T19:13:00.000-06:00

It's been an okay weekend. I have a sinus infection that is hanging on and making me feel a little blah. In spite of that...I am thankful and I am blessed for my beloved family. I'm also incredibly thankful for friends who invite BOTH the older boys over to spend the night even though technically, her son is Graham's friend. It came at a great time, because combined with that and my four hours of sleep the night before, I was exhausted. (And yes, Breaking Dawn Part I was totally worth the four hours of sleep I got. It was ahmaaaazing!)

But guess what I did??? I went to bed at nine and read my book on the Kindle app I have on my tablet...and I didn't even have to turn the bedside lamp on! I know, right? I love reading books on that thing...so much so that I finished my first book and bought my second one this morning before church. :) LURVE!!! (Yes, I still love and occasionally talk like Madea.)

The boys and I went to my dad's house to help him and my sister finish putting up his Christmas lights. I was so sad to discover that we won't be seeing him for Thanksgiving this year. :( Him and my stepmom decided to go to Branson to see all the Christmas lights, and they'll be leaving after lunch that day. It won't quite be the same without the tradition of eating with him that Friday after Thanksgiving and going to see the Zoo Lights. I'm a sucker for some family traditions, for those of you who know me. I know I see him all the time, and for that, I am thankful. This year is, apparently, just a year for change.

Graham and Drew have a new business venture. They're making and selling survival bracelets. You can buy them for $10-12 and they're selling theirs for $5. So, if you would like one, you can let them know. Or me, since I'm the mom. :)

Well, that's about it for our weekend. I am so excited for our two day week this week! Jonah and Noah have their third grade Thanksgiving feast tomorrow. They will be going to school dressed as pilgrims. Jonah said, "Mom, there is no way I can wear a long sleeved shirt all day. Can I take something I can change into?" My words back to him: "Deal with it."

He is such a turkey.

Speaking of...can't wait to eat mine on Thursday! Woohoo! I hope you all have a wonderful Monday. Love to all!

A Little Weird? Anyone?

2011-11-17T14:31:00.000-06:00

My puppy, when I claim him, is cute. And spastic. He also pees on the floor quite often, which makes me mad. But now that I bought more paper towels to clean up with, maybe I won't be quite as frustrated. Anyway, the puppy (whom I've considered renaming Evil Knievel) likes to chew on the rubber handle of his rope toy. Most puppies like the rope...not EK, though. He likes the handle. Weird.

Today is Thursday. I was short on help at work today, but thankfully I had two moms who came to volunteer. Kids were loud. Ketchup was splattered to Kingdom Come. And I left the cafeteria with a smile on my face and a "thank You, Jesus" in my heart. Weird, huh?

Andy the Wonder Dog is currently napping upstairs. He didn't bark when I came home. I think he's sacked because of all the playing him and EK did in the backyard this morning. They were chasing each other. And ended in a Mexican standoff, until EK ran under the trampoline. I don't know if Andy is tired or just mad at me still. I feel like I've somehow betrayed him by getting another dog. I know. It's weird.

I had another little darling give me a chocolate Lindor truffle today! I'd eat it right now...if it weren't in the pocket of my apron at school. :-( That one's not so weird, but I thought I would share it with you.

I like to come home every day and watch the cooking channel on television. My favorite show is the Giada show...Everyday Italian. I am planning on using one of her recipes when we make Big Daddy his birthday dinner next month. Graham likes to watch these shows with me. He loves to cook and will actually be doing most of the birthday dinner himself. Another not-so-weird one.

In the few minutes that I've been writing this post, Evil Knievel has stopped gnawing on the rubber handle to watch a Macy's commercial on tv, and he came over to lick the bottom of my shoe. I don't even want to know why he wants to do that. Weirdo.

Well...I am going to take a little siesta so that I don't pass out in the middle of the movie tonight. :) Love to all.

Happy Thursday!

2011-11-17T07:11:00.000-06:00

I know I don't say that often...the Thursday part, I mean. With my aversion to them and all. After yesterday, I know that today will be the turnaround. :)

Have I mentioned that we watch Home Improvement in the morning? I love this show. And Tim Allen. It's gotta be the all-boys thing. I love how he's always getting into trouble of some sort. It reminds me of a couple of people in my house. Maybe that's why we like it...because we can relate.

I'm glad we stayed home last night. I went to bed early (for the third night in a row, right around nine). I finished up the series of books I was reading from the library, so I started reading my first book on my new touchpad. :) I like it. Love it, actually...I can adjust the font and the size of it, I can even adjust the background color. I was only able to read for about fifteen minutes once I laid down, because I was already falling asleep.

I'm hoping I can hold myself together all night tonight, because I have plans at midnight!!!! Any guesses?

My best friend, her daughter and I are going to see the 12:02 showing of Breaking Dawn. :)

Just because we're cool like that. And it's funner at midnight. Drew asked if he could go. (Smile)

Well, laundry is calling my name. Again. It does that a lot. I also have to wake Jonah and Noah up a little early so that I can drive Graham and Drew to school. Drew's ankle hurts really bad and he doesn't feel up to walking to the bus stop this morning. (Because of his fall yesterday.) So, I'm driving them.

Have a great day! Love to all.

a little run through of my (now) comical day

2011-11-16T17:24:00.000-06:00

My alarm clock went off. Once. Twice. Three times. On the fourth go-round, I finally managed to roll out of bed.

Breakfast was easy...but quick, since I wasn't the only one who couldn't get up. (Ahem, Drew.)

I dropped the older boys off at school at 7:05 for FCA.

I drove home.

And turned around, when Drew told me he forgot his backpack in my car.

Smile.

I woke up Jonah and Noah. And let the dogs out in the backyard for the fourth time since 6:20 or so. (My floors are a muddy mess...or were, anyway.)

Breakfast was easy...and laundry was calling me, so it was a quick affair. I had a little gentleman offer to carry the basket up the stairs for me. Since right now, going upstairs involves stepping onto a chair and climbing over the baby gate that is keeping Evil Knievel from going up them to further torment the felines that are living up there.

I dropped the boys off at school....after turning around to get the jackets that Jonah and Noah forgot...and lecturing a couple extra's on when it's appropriate to laugh and cut up...and when it's not. This morning was NOT appropriately timed.

I came home and settled down to finish up my Bible study homework. And was having a grand 'ole time, when the phone rang. It was the middle school, informing me that Drew had fallen down the stairs. :-( He was okay, but shaken up. I took him some sweet tea and gave him two Motrin's. He didn't want to come home...just wanted some medicine because his already bruised leg was hurting him.

I finished part of my Bible study homework and had to set it aside so I could eat lunch before work. Then I got to work and noticed that today was their Thanksgiving meal day. And I had already eaten lunch. Part of the problem of my job is that I never get notified of anything.

Work was uneventful (if you can call a room full of hundreds of kids uneventful).

A little angel brought me a Lindor chocolate truffle. And she gave me the best hug ever. :-)

Then, another little angel brought me some of her sweet mommy's homemade salsa and chips. And I got another sweet hug.

My day was brightened. Smiles and hugs have a way of doing that. Things get forgotten and suddenly, there is a bright spot.

God is so good that way. He knew that I needed to be loved on (just a little) today, and look what He did. Kids don't bring me things very often...but today, I was blessed doubly.

A coincidence? I don't believe in them. A God thing? Most definitely.

He cares about every little detail of our lives...the stressful, the mundane, the stuff that makes us crazy...and when we earnestly pray and seek His word about how to handle a tough situation, He turns things around. Not always in the way we plan, but in the way He plans. And His plans are far greater than ours.

Today in my Bible study homework, I read about how He is enthralled by us.

I don't know about you, but I feel treasured and loved by Him.

I also feel in desperate need of some quality family time. We have been gone every night this week, and the same will be true for tomorrow night as well. So, because my hubby doesn't feel well, and because I just think we need it, we are staying home from church. I plan on making an easy dinner, and a pot of decaf coffee. We might watch a movie. We might not...but whatever we do, we will do together.

Sounds like Heaven. Hope you enjoy your evening as much as I plan on enjoying mine. Love to all.

(Disclaimer: Don't feel bad for me regarding my day...I was just letting you get a glimpse into my "real", crazy, not-at-all-perfect life. I am thankful that I can write all this with humor, and with a heart that is thankful that this is all I have to deal with in my life. I know that this is not at all the case for many of my friends, and I am not downplaying that at all. I realize that my life is blessed, and I am humbly thankful for that.)

to love or not to love

2011-11-15T10:39:00.000-06:00

Please be nice to me. Especially when I am nice to you. Even when I don't feel like it. (This is meant for the people I don't know who are rude to me when I tell them our policies at school regarding lunch visitors.) You can hate the message, but don't hate the messenger.

I do NOT love cupcakes for birthdays. At school, I mean, for birthday treats. I love the cookies and little individually wrapped treats. And donuts...we love donuts! So easy to pass out...and not messy.

I don't love red drinks. They stain floors...just think of what they do to the insides.

I love having the opportunity every day to love on my kids. And all "my" other kids. Well...most days, anyway. ;-)

I love the sounds of a puppy snoring. It means he's not doing anything bad at the moment. I also love friends who loan me their dog kennels. This thing has been a lifesaver.

I love that my kids have jam packed calendars. Most of which takes place in the mornings or afternoons before school. I am so thankful that my kids love going to school.

I do not love hearing about some of the ugliness that goes on. I pray that God will always guard their hearts, their minds, their eyes and their ears. As I write that, I'm thinking of a song I sang as a child.

"Oh be careful little ears, what you hear!
Oh be careful little ears, what you hear!
For the Father up above
is looking down in love.
Oh be careful little ears what you hear!"

I know He will guard them. I pray they always walk with Him and in His ways.

Well, I have to go sign people in as lunch visitors. Love to all.

updates

2011-11-14T17:18:00.000-06:00

Crash (the dog) had a really bad night Thursday night. It resulted in my sweet stepdad seeing me very frustrated and a teary phone call to my husband. I wanted to take him back. He was torturing Andy the Wonder Dog and he kept peeing all over the downstairs. I had had it, and Todd told me he would get in touch with his previous owners. Which he did...and then couldn't get again. I think they were avoiding us. I agreed to give the mutt one more week's worth of chances and make a final decision after the week is over.

He's done much better, and I'm managing to tolerate him. Sometimes. When he starts bugging Andy, I put him in his kennel.

Friday was a holiday. We made our annual trek downtown to watch the veteran's day parade. :) It was so much fun...and our friends even went with us, making it even more fun. I took lots of pics, but I'll have to share them later.

We did the usual weekend things over the weekend, ending with a middle school youth bonfire last night. Except that it was extremely windy outside and the bonfire had to be held and contained in fire pits. It worked, though, and the kids didn't mind at all. They still roasted hot dogs and marshmallows for s'mores, then they all ran around and played hide and go seek.

Good times were had by all.

That brings us to today! I need to go to the grocery store for lunch and dinner things, but I'm going to try and stretch what we have until midweek. I am sure my husband will appreciate my efforts of not spending a small fortune at the grocery store. :) I am dressed and waiting to go to a Young Life banquet that we were invited to tonight. I can't wait for some adult time...and with my husband and good friends, too! My sister, Lisa, is taking care of the boys. We're going to drive by and get Wendy's for them to eat, then they're going to eat at her house.

What have YOU been up to? I am so excited for Thanksgiving...it'll be here before we know it, and I can't wait to spend some quality time with family and friends. I also can't wait for the five day break that comes with it!

Enjoy your evening at home...and I will enjoy my evening out. :) Love to all.

Happy Wednesday!

2011-11-09T07:13:00.000-06:00

We have a new member of our family. His name is Crash. As in Crash Bandicoot...from the Mario and Sonic games?

I am not sure how I feel about him. I smacked his nose so hard yesterday that I might have bruised my fingers internally. :-( He was tormenting Andy the Wonder Dog, and he is NOT going to do that.

He's actually doing pretty good with going outside, though. Only a few little accidents here and there, and at least that's on hardwood.

So, what else is going on...

I have a field trip today with Jonah and Noah. We're going to the zoo!

Graham also has a "field trip"...it's an emerging leaders conference for FCA. He's either coming home afterward or going to a friend's house until after the other boys get out of school.

Poor Drew will be the only one in school all day...but Graham said it's like payback, since he was absent two days last week while all the other boys went.

Tonight is church and I am so ready! We missed Bible study last night because the DVD was all scratched up. I have missed doing Bible study homework this week...I'm always ready to jump back in after a little break.

I cannot wait until Friday! It's Veteran's Day, and we are doing our annual parade downtown with my sweet Daddy. I'm sad that my sister Trisha can't go with us this year, though.

That's about it...laundry is calling!

Love to all and Happy Wednesday.

Scripture

2011-11-04T10:23:00.000-05:00

James 1:17 All generous giving and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or the slightest hint of change.

James 2:1 My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism.

Isaiah 26:3 You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You.

Romans 8:35, 37-39 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Philippians 4:6,7 Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and mind as you live in Christ Jesus.

Colossians 2:6,7 And now, just as you have accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow Him. Let your roots grow down into Him, and let your lives be built on Him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.

Psalm 91:2,4 This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; He is my God and I trust Him. He will cover you with His feathers. He will shelter you with His wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection.

Isaiah 46:10 Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.

Psalm 37:4 Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart.

Psalm 37:5 Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust Him and He will help you.

Proverbs 16:3 Commit your actions to the Lord and your plans will succeed.

Galatians 6:9 So let's not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't give up.

John 8:12 When Jesus spoke again to the people, He said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.

1 Corinthians 10:23 Everything is permissable, but not everything is beneficial. Everything is is permissable, but not everything is constructive.

Colossians 3:23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.

Proverbs 15:4 Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.

2 Chronicles 30:27 ...and God heard them, for their prayer reached heaven, His holy dwelling place.

Psalm 25:15 I continually look to the Lord for help, for He will free my feet from the enemy's net.

Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control. Against such things there is no law.

Hebrews 11:6 And without faith, it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.

no title Thursday

2011-11-03T07:15:00.000-05:00

This week is going by so fast...as usual in my house. We've had a couple sick kids. Tuesday Graham came home sick, and yesterday Drew stayed home. I don't know if it's a stomach virus or not...but the only symptom is nausea that comes and goes.

I am keeping Drew home again today. :-( Hopefully his teachers will take pity on him and be kind to him when he gets back to school. They were the other couple of days he missed earlier in the year.

Hopefully today will go by quickly and Drew will be better. I don't like it when any of my kids are sick, but when Drew is sick it's really quiet around my house. He is the loud one. :)

On to other things now...

Today is a brand new day...and with it the opportunity to be a blessing to someone. I pray this all the time...that God will work through me and allow me to be a blessing or an encouragement to someone in need. I have days that I am so the opposite of that, though. But every day is a new start. Every day we have the chance to love on someone. Whether it be through a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, a helping hand...we have the chance to be or do something kind.

Isn't that awesome??

I love the idea of "paying it forward".

I am making this my goal through the months of November and December. I love a challenge and I am challenging myself to do or say something kind to someone at least once every day for the next two months.

One group of people I am targeting the most is my own family. Did you know that it's a proven fact that we are nicer to complete strangers than we are to our own families that we live with? How sad is that??? Don't forget to start with them!

Care to join me? I thought I'd do a different spin on the "I'm Thankful For...". It's not hard and it doesn't have to cost anything. The best things in life are free, after all.

Think about it...and comment on here if you're interested.

Love to all.

Happy Monday (&Halloween)

2011-10-31T06:58:00.000-05:00

I am blessed to wake up to a new day. Even when it's a Monday...really, don't you think the "Monday syndrome" is just a state of mind? Every day has the potential of being a great day. It's all about attitude.

(That's what I always remind myself and my kids.)

I am so thankful for each and every day I get to spend with my kids. I pray that the Lord helps me to enjoy each and every moment. Even the chaos of Halloween on a Monday. Even when I have yet to figure out exact costumes for everyone. (We do not buy costumes...we always make our own out of what we have.) Even when I haven't even bought our candy to pass out yet. :-//

I will embrace my crazy, loud job. I will remember to be understanding when they get so loud that my eardrums feel like they're about to burst. I will remember what it was like to be a kid who LOVED trick-or-treating for Halloween.

I will not stress about the state of my house, or the dog hair that I occasionally see float up as the kids run by. The mess will always be here...the kids will not.

I will not try to make gourmet meals for my family. I will try my hardest to make them what they like.

I will love, love and love some more on each one of my family members. I will not be short-tempered, and I will take the teasing that is so easily dished out to me with a better attitude. I will remember that I live in a house full of boys. I will remember that their brains work much differently than mine.

It's going to be an amazing day. Thank You, Lord, for the many blessings You have given me.

(Thank you, Rene, for inspiring this blog post.:)

Tears in my Soup

2011-10-28T10:40:00.000-05:00

I cannot stop crying...for several reasons, but the biggest one of all is the fact that my high school friend's wife went home to be with the Lord this morning at 4:18. I (and so many others) was praying for God just to take her as peacefully and as quickly as He could. I am so glad she is no longer in pain, and that she has met Jesus face to face.

But as a Mom, my heart is completely broken.

How many times do we complain about making lunches? Going shopping for groceries? All the homework? The dinner we have to think up and prepare? The cleaning, the laundry...I could go on.

I know I do. But we are among the blessed.

April would have given anything in the world to have a lifetime more of nothing but those things. I can't help but feel incredibly selfish at all the moments I've taken for granted.

I've only met this woman once, but I will think of her every single time I am about to complain about something. I wish all of you could read her and Sam's facebook pages...the lives that have been changed because of the example of her faith are incredible. I cannot stop reading them...thus, I cannot stop crying.

And hence the title, tears in my soup. I couldn't even eat my lunch because I keep crying. Tomato soup with crackers loses its flavor when mixed with salty tears.

Please continue to pray for both the families...the Kelly's and the Lowe's. April leaves behind her husband Sam, Madily, Ainsley and Owen, a mom, a dad, two sisters, and all of Sam's family. She was a wife, mom, daughter, and friend to many.

Love to all.

Heavy Heart

2011-10-25T15:00:00.000-05:00

All funny stuff aside, I write this with a very heavy heart.

I have a friend from high school who could really use your prayers. Not only for him, but for his beautiful wife and their three precious children. His name is Sam Kelly, and his wife April is dying of cancer. Sam and April are fine, Christian people...and their journey through April's illness has been nothing short of inspiring.

Even in the midst of her terminal illness, they want others to come to know their Lord and Savior. April is a beautiful young woman...way too young to be fighting such a vicious cancer...who was first diagnosed a couple years ago with breast cancer. She underwent chemotherapy and was in remission for about a year. But then it came back, this time with a vengeance. It is now ravaging her frail body.

She's been able to be at home, in a hospital bed these past few weeks. Things have gotten progressively worse.

Today they are moving her to the new hospice home here in Collierville.

They had to tell the older kids last night as simply and in an as uncomplicated way as possible, what was happening to their beloved mom. Their youngest is still a little too young to really grasp what is going on. The girls are only 7 and 6, and the youngest is only 2.

I cannot even imagine what this precious God-loving family must be going through...but if you are the praying kind, would you please join me in praying for the Kelly family?

Her latest Caring Bridge journal entry asked specifically for prayer during the transport to the hospice home, and for no extra pain or anxiety for April.

God be with them all...I know that somewhere in all of this, God has a plan for them. It's hard to understand during times like this, but something good will come out of it. He never does things without reason. Please, please join me in praying for Sam, April, Madilyn, Ainsley and Owen Kelly. If you want to read more about her story, go to CaringBridge.com and type April Lowe Kelly into the search feature.

It's looking like she's not going to be healed, so I am praying for a quick and as painless as possible release from this earth into the loving arms of her Jesus.

Life is so short, friends...never take one single second for granted. Hug and kiss your babies tonight.

Love to all.

"The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." Psalm 23

What To Write?

2011-10-25T07:11:00.000-05:00

Camping trip
the huge tarantula we saw
sleeping in the bathroom (in chairs) with Noah
the taco soup that spilled all over everything in the trailer
how much laundry I did on Sunday
catching up on Bible study
missing my mom's in touch meetings for the entire month of October
friends
my recent pet peeves
making my two older boys car riders instead of bus riders
Bon Qui Qui...Drew's latest obsession (making his Auntie Debi super proud, I'm sure)
reality tv
sitcoms

These are all the things rolling around in my brain and somehow I just can't put the thoughts in a cohesive order to form a blog post.

Maybe later.

It'll depend on how much Bible study homework I get done today.

Until then...Happy Tuesday. Love to all.

Fall Break...Time to Leave!

2011-10-19T08:50:00.000-05:00

We spent a good part of the evening last night loading the trailer. Yes, we go camping pulling a trailer. If we didn't pull the thing, we couldn't take all that we have to take.

Todd and Travis were fooling around with the trailer hitch, so I was told that I could come in. So I did. To a huge mess of what looked like pee all over our kitchen floor. We promptly got Andy out the door (because only he could produce that much) and started cleaning up. Bless Drew's and Jonah's hearts. They did most of the cleaning and I supervised, standing by with the washing machine lid open.

We got it all cleaned up, though.

I came in the living room to sit down and get on the computer for a minute. Noah asked if he could have a glass of tea. I said yes, so off he went. Only to come right back and ask me could I please make some more, because there was only a tiny amount left. Thinking that surely couldn't be right, I sent Graham in to double check. (I had just poured another gallon in our new pull-out pitcher thing that Todd bought me. That meant that when we ate dinner, there were 2 and a half gallons of tea in that thing.)

Guess what? Noah was right. And the huge mess that we thought Andy had made all over the floor was actually tea. Not only had it been on the floor, it was also in the refrigerator. And in the shelves in the door.

The good news is that now my refrigerator is very nice and organized and clean. :)

The bad news? Well, all of the above.

Graham had poured our tea at dinner, and after you're finished filling the glasses, you have to make sure you push it back on the shelf before you shut the door. If you don't, the door will bump the little spout, thus spilling tea all over sweet kingdom come.

I'm done now.

I'm enjoying a little quiet before I get up and start moving around. I'm about to refill my coffee, and then I'll have to finish up on the last bit of laundry, then Todd and I have to pack. I've made all my lists and checked them twice. Have I mentioned how much work is involved going camping? I'm trying very hard not to forget anything. I keep adding little minor things...you know, like towels for when we shower.

Well...I don't know when I'll write again, unless I can do it from my phone. Which is quite possible, but I'm probably not going to do that while we're gone. Enjoy the rest of your week (and your break, if your kids are off)! I know we will. I hope we don't freeze our tails off! It was cold here last night, and that was all I kept thinking...

We'll be making some memories, for sure! Love to all.

Fall Break, Day 2

2011-10-18T14:57:00.000-05:00

Today dawned bright and early...again. :) I'm having to wake up a little early because of my two little extra's. No big deal, though...it just gets me up earlier to enjoy my first cup of coffee.

I know...but I'm serious, unfortunately. I think I'm getting old...when I look forward to going to bed at night so I can have that first cup of coffee the next morning.

Anyway, moving on. It is much cooler today (46* as I write this) and rainy. The rain didn't come until closer to lunch time, though, thankfully. Since I had seven kids in my front yard playing football. (Graham, Drew, Jonah, Will, Drew C., Ethan, and Collin) The other three were upstairs playing a game on the Wii.

My dad called and rescued us from staying home...and invited us to lunch at Backyard Burger. I love their blackened chicken sandwich...yum. And Drew is in love with their chili. Perfect for this cool day!

Now we're back home, nearing the end of a movie. For anybody who hasn't seen this, it has to be the strangest movie I've ever seen. Tron Legacy?? It's entertaining Noah and Myles, though.

I'm about to leave and take Myles and Zander to get their hair cut. I offered to do this since I have a little more spare time than my neighbors, Travis and Katie. On the agenda for tonight is an easy dinner since we'll be spending part of the evening loading up the trailer for tomorrow.

That's about it for today. It's been a great day so far...we're all just counting down until tomorrow when we leave for our camping trip! We're all so excited we can hardly see straight. Love to all!

Fall Break, Day 1

2011-10-17T20:04:00.001-05:00

It was a great day. Our neighbors, Myles and Zander are hanging out with us today and tomorrow, as well. Today, the only plans I had were to get out and enjoy the beautiful day that God blessed us with. So, after some minimal housekeeping things (dishes, laundry, neatening up), we packed up our lunches and headed out.

I need to stop here and give Graham and Drew the credit for getting us out the door in a timely manner. While I was finishing getting dressed, they were packing our chips, desserts and drinks. :)

We went to Cameron Brown park, because it's not THAT far, and it's our favorite park. We are creatures of habit, and we always start at the first playset and then end at the one near the exit. They ate, they swung on the swings, they ran...I would say a great time was had by all.

We came home afterwards so Zan could take a nap. While he napped, the other boys played Lego Starwars and Drew and I watched Paul Blart Mall Cop. Until I got frustrated enough to turn it off because of our super sensitive blue ray disc player. I think they finished it upstairs on the Wii...thank you, Netflix Instant Queue. :)

After that I made our first night's dinner for our camping trip. Taco soup. With an extra dose of spicy. It's going to taste great with the extra spice and the cold (close to freezing) weather. I cannot wait. Have I mentioned I'm excited???

I never in a million years would have guessed that I would become a camping junky.

With this being said, I will leave you with some pictures from our last camping trip. I can't wait to add more memories to our next great camping adventure! Love to all!

Too Many Subjects to Come Up With a Title

2011-10-17T08:59:00.000-05:00

It's been a busy weekend! We got our Fall break started off with a faculty and staff bonfire and hayride out at our plant manager's farm. Mr. Ronnie and his sweet wife are precious to go to all that trouble for us. There were a bunch of people there...if I had to guess, I would say there were definitely over a hundred of us...maybe even closer to one twenty. Plus kids. A whole lot of kids. It was a great time to sit and get reacquainted outside of work. The weather was perfect, cool and crisp...and only one kid jumped off the hayride. The one who's mom had just told him not to jump off. ;-)

We left Mr. Ronnie's and headed toward the airport. As I was passing through Collierville (Mr. Ronnie lives in Moscow), I realized how early we were. I got off the interstate and we made a pit stop at Sonic. Everyone got a snack and we had to visit their bathroom before getting back on the interstate.

We made it safely to the airport, but I got so confused in the parking garage. A lot of it is under construction, so certain parts are open and some areas are closed. For instance, the American Airlines entrance into the airport was roped off...so I tried to find a good spot that was well lit and close enough that we wouldn't all be freaked out.

Do you know how freaky the airport is at night? When you're the lone adult with four kids? At ten o'clock at night? Creepy. The kids were all on the verge of freaking out, and Drew had to pee four times in the 30 minutes we waited on Todd. He does that when he's nervous...and for some reason, he was.

We finally were down to the last ten minutes, and we walked up to area that you can look out the windows. We watched Todd's plane land...it was really cool. Jonah said, "I knew that was his plane, I could see Daddy with my mind."

Sweet. Never have I been so glad to see a person in all of my life. I am so thankful that he doesn't travel often. I would go nuts if he did.

Saturday we slept in and hung around home for a long time, then we met up with the neighbors to talk about our upcoming camping trip. We got all of our food ideas nailed down, and we put together a huge shopping list. And yesterday, thanks to my awesome hubby and neighbor, Travis, they did just that. Shopped their little hearts out. I won't talk about the amount, though...it was enough to make my heart skip a beat. Yikes.

Yesterday we helped out in First Kids Church. I love this time every month! The praise and worship is amazing, and the teaching was so good yesterday that I forgot I was in "kids' church"! Our leaders are amazing, wonderful people...with a deep love for our kids. It's obvious when you meet them. And they are so humble...my heart was blessed richly yesterday morning.

Last night, my best friend, my mom, my sisters and my niece and I went to see Footloose. Oh my GOODNESS GRACIOUS. If you aren't planning on going to see that movie...you need to rethink that decision. It was amazing. I sang the entire time and laughed my head off. I'd forgotten how funny parts of it were...it was definitely worth the $9.50 it took to get us in the door. And coming from a gal that doesn't go to movies much (not because I don't love to, but because I don't love paying that price), that is saying a lot. I would do it again in a heartbeat.

So, here we are to Monday. I have a few things to accomplish around the house today....laundry and cooking for our upcoming trip. I think we're planning on breaking away at lunch time to go to the park. I have two extra ones today...Myles and Zander. I am praying we have a fun two days while I get us ready to go camping for four days and three nights. I have lots to do, but hopefully the kids won't mind me being busy while they hang out.

Speaking of our trip...I am ready!! Now that everything is bought, it's just a matter of packing all of our personal stuff and getting it all loaded up and ready to go. I have lists that have other lists. I think I'm pretty well organized and know what all is going with us. I hope so, anyway. I guess if something gets forgotten, we don't need it. ;-)

Well, I need a refill on the coffee. And something just came on The Today show that I want to watch. So, I'm going to go do that. Love to all!

wEdNeSdAy

2011-10-12T10:09:00.000-05:00

It's going by fast! Our last week of school before our fun and glorious upcoming Fall break.

It's been crazy, and Todd is missing so much this week. Why does that happen?

Last night was Open House at the middle school, and since he was gone, my mom went in his place. She got to meet all of their teachers and walk the halls where 3 out of her 4 girls once walked.

I'm the one one in four that did not attend there. ???

I guess even back then, I had to be "different".

Anyway, my sister Debi and niece Nicole got in from Colorado last night. :) It's been a whole year (almost) since I've seen them. The boys always love getting an excuse to hang out at Auntie Lisa's. And last night was no exception, although better than usual because of Nicole. I get the feeling her and Drew could get into some trouble if given the chance. ;)

We stayed out past their bedtime and finally had to leave because of unfinished homework. I cannot BELIEVE teachers give homework on Open House night. Seriously???

Mom stayed with us last night. Bill was supposed to have gone out of town, but that changed at the last minute. He just so happens to be filling in Todd's shoes this Friday for Dad's day. (See? He's missing that, too.) I'll stop with the "he's missing that, too", because, really...I could have a whole pity party.

On like how I hate sitting by myself after the kids go to bed.

And on how even though he would normally not be here in the daytime, I am somehow bored. And my house is even clean. Well, mostly, anyway.

And the fact that when I remembered to call him last night, I was about to fall asleep from exhaustion.

And the way I miss his voice late at night when he tries to talk softly.

And how he's not here to make my coffee. (It's Biblical...He brews. Hebrews. :)

Or how he's not here to give me hugs right before I go to bed.

And how I even miss his laundry...our loads are so much smaller without his clothes to fill up the washer.

Really...I'm done now.

See? I'm starting to feel sorry for myself. I prefer to be the one to travel...not the other way around.

Anyway, I'm going to go drown my sorrows in a bagel with cream cheese and a diet coke now.

Love to all.

Umm?

2011-10-10T19:15:00.000-05:00

No title. Again.

Just another "all over the place" post. (I use the word 'random' too much, so I'm trying to refrain.)

It was a great weekend. Kind of. Saturday was miserable, but yesterday was on the up and up. We spent the majority of the day with my sister, Trish. The boys begged to go to her house, so we actually missed church and went over there instead. (Don't tell anybody, okay?)

She spoiled them with the food they love and lots and lots of attention. She even gave me her spot on the most perfect-est nap couch I've ever slept on. Squishy pillows and all.

Almost makes up for the evil cats that live with her. Almost.

We went to church last night. Jonah and Noah had AWANA, and Graham and Drew had youth. I was by myself, going into a chili dinner, in a fellowship hall filled with people that I don't know. I was desperately looking for someone to sit with...and finally, some friends walked in. Curtis and Kitty let me sit with them and even introduced me to a new couple. If only I could remember their names. We had a time of hearing testimonies after the chili dinner (free and I didn't have to take a thing!), then ended in the big sanctuary to watch a sweet 6th grade girl get baptized.

That's also where I picked up Jonah and Noah. After Austin (the kids' pastor) baptized the girl, Noah leaned over and said, "Mom, I want to do that."

:) So...I guess we'll start talking about it and praying about it and meeting with Austin about my sweet baby boy getting baptized.

Today was a great day. The weather was beautiful...sunny and in the upper 70's with an amazing breeze. Perfection. I hope it stays like this all week!

The boys came home from school and have been outside almost ever since. Noah came in and said, "Mom, I feel like I want to get ready for Halloween." I didn't really know what that meant, but he finally told me he wanted to put out some pumpkins. So we (THEY) brought in all the pumpkins we acquired from Tom's farm Friday night and I put them on the fireplace hearth.

My neighbor Katie came over and motivated me to get started on the decorating, so I asked Graham to help me get all the stuff out of the attic. And proceeded to make Noah one happy little camper. :)

As I sit here writing this, there are pumpkins and scarecrows all around me, and I have a couple of Fall candles burning. :)

Happy sigh inserted here.

Enjoy your night! Love to all.

Happy Friday!

2011-10-07T10:38:00.000-05:00

Hmmm. Apparently I've used that title quite a few times. When I typed it in, Blogger remembered it. Oh well. It is! A happy Friday, that is.

I went to the Walmart this morning after I dropped the boys off at school. I had to get our yummy fixin's for tonight's time at Tom's farm. Hot dogs, buns, graham crackers, Hershey's candy bars, chips, dips...my kids are so excited. We're going with three other families...the Stalls, the Dickson's and the Norman's.

Heck. Who am I kidding? I'm probably more excited than them.

I just really, really, REALLY want to get through this day in a big hurry. I wish I could fast forward through the part when my kids are at school.

Today, shopping for the s'more fixin's reminded me of how excited I am for Fall break. We're going on an all-inclusive (exclusive, actually), relaxing, adventurous, three night, four day...

Camping trip!

I am reminded of our most favorite picture book ever, A Camping Spree with Mr. Magee.

I kinda feel like him sometimes. When things are just so crazy and funny...

Anyway, this time around we're traveling close to 4 hours, to Blanchard Springs in the Ozarks. This mama is so excited she can hardly stand it. I was browsing their website yesterday and noticed that there is a 'black bear warning'.

Hmmm.

Jesus, please keep the black bears away!

I say this all with tongue in cheek, because this is just adding memories for the boys. :) There are caves to explore, water falls and rivers to explore...I cannot wait. C.A.N.N.O.T. W.A.I.T.

:)

Well, lest I go on and on and on about this, I'll stop.

For now.

Happy Friday to all of you! Love to all.

"I Bless Your Name"

2011-10-06T10:26:00.000-05:00

There's a song that we would sing when I was in choir at First Assembly by Brooklyn Tabernacle called, I Bless Your Name. I've been singing it all morning and just cannot get it out of my head. Maybe a God thing? I don't know...but in case it is, I don't want to pass up the opportunity to share the story with you.

It's taken from the book of Acts, found in chapter 16, verses 22-26.

"The crowd joined in the attack against Paul and Silas, and the magistrates ordered them to be stripped and beaten. After they had been severely flogged, they were thrown into prison, and the jailer was commanded to guard them carefully. Upon receiving such orders, he put them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks. About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everybody's chains came loose."

Are you struggling with something that you need to cry out to God about? Do it...He's right by your side...just waiting for you to give it to Him.

I hope you enjoy the song. Love to all.

Mixed Emotions

2011-10-06T07:07:00.000-05:00

I am so thankful that today is Thursday and we're almost to our weekend. However, I'm sad that on Saturday, Todd will be leaving for a week. I always dread when he leaves because of how hard it is on the kids. Remember that line from Steel Magnolia's when Dolly Parton's character tells M'Lynn that she doesn't let anyone cry alone? That's me.

If they cry, I cry. As I was praying this morning, I got teared up just thinking of what is to come.

One good thing is my sister Trish is going to ride with us when we take Todd to the airport on Saturday, and then she's spending the night with us. She's so sweet...I think she's trying to make it less sad for the boys. I'm thankful for her thoughtfulness.

I know the week will go by really fast...mine always do, but especially the week he's gone. My other sister, Debi will be coming home that week, and that will make the time really go fast. The boys LOVE her (they love all their aunties!!!), and always look forward to when she comes home. And she's bringing my beautiful niece, Nicole, who just happens to be Graham's and Drew's age. Mike and Austin (her teenage son) can't come this time.

Speaking of the sista's...if you are local to me in The Ville and reading this, the sista's and I are hosting a Girls' Night Out...a come and go jewelry party. Debi sells Silpada and there will be drawings for prizes every 20 minutes. Come on by and hang out...I created an "event" on facebook that gives the time and location.

Well. I guess I'd better get off the blog and get busy with my morning routing. I hope you have an amazing, blessed day. Love to all.

What's On My Mind

2011-10-05T16:44:00.000-05:00

Fall! I love this time of year (well, if the weather would get cooler!). I love the changing of the leaves, the crisp air in the morning, how dark it is when I wake up...I love all of it. Mostly, I love our traditions. This Friday night, we're going to Tom's Farm for the fifth year. I think we've been with our friends David and Sunny every year except for one...gotta love some good couple friends, right??

I love making new friends. I've spent the better part of the afternoon texting with a sweet new friend...Shari. :) If you're reading this Shari, then know that I am so thankful for the chance to get to know you more this year! I'm looking forward to breakfast with her soon...hopefully one day next week.

Church. I am such a church girl. Love everything about it...the sermons, the fellowship, the feel of family I get from there...I love all of it and I can't wait till tonight! Youth for Graham and Drew, M&M's for Jonah and Noah and Bible study for this mom in need of some refreshment.

Singing...I love to sing and miss it. Well...I miss being on a praise and worship team. Our church does things a little differently, and there is not one of those. But also, as much as I love to sing, I felt like I needed to be in a Bible study more at this present moment. And I am loving it...so don't feel sorry for me. This was my choice.

Oreo's...and how happy they make Noah. Especially the Halloween ones...the stuffing is orange! He's in heaven.

Tattling...I hate it. Absolutely, completely and totally h.a.t.e. it. My kids drive me nuts sometimes...and sometimes when they think I'm not around, they're mean. Like Graham...I cannot stand his attitude and how he thinks he can just be mean because he's the oldest. And trust me...we are going to have a little talk about this with Dad tonight after church. We have some attitude adjusting that needs to be done around here, and it's going to be done before Todd leaves me for a week this Saturday. ://

Well...I have to run. I guess my kids want to eat before church...and if they do, I need to get busy! Love to all.

Lots of Good Things

2011-10-04T10:15:00.000-05:00

I love candles. Do you? I love this one, especially (it's my newest). I bought it last week. It's a fall one, which makes it even better. The reason I'm lighting candles in my home is because of a blog that I read called Women Living Well. If you want to check her blog out, scroll down the "What I Love to Read" column on the right and find her blog.

Courtney (the writer of the blog) gives a 31 day challenge for us to make our homes more peaceful. I almost wrote peace-full...I think that would be more appropriate, don't you? Every time I light this candle (at least once a day), I pray for God to remain the light of our lives...in our hearts and in our home. I pray that God will keep our home warm, inviting and full of His glorious peace. I pray that God will bless all of those that walk through our door. I pray that God will remind us to keep the peace as parents, and to soften our tones of voice. I pray that He will rule in our hearts and in our home for all the days of our life...that we never know even one day without Him at the center of us.

If you want to, join me in this 31 day challenge...it's changed my way of thinking and it's reminding me to pray more over my home. Our sanctuary. Our refuge...our safe place.

Today is our fifteenth wedding anniversary. I can't believe we've been married for all those years...that's a pretty big number. Especially because we're still young. -Ish. :) Our marriage has had its ups and downs, but God's grace was sufficient, and He brought us through it all. I was talking to my Dad on Friday about all the amazing things God has done in our lives. He's restored our marriage, He healed Todd of who knows what...he had a tumor in his stomach that I believe God shrunk. God has provided for us financially when we couldn't think of a way out. He's been our Healer, our Sustainer, our Prince of Peace when there was conflict. He's been infinitely good to us...much more than we deserve. For this and a lot more, I am thankful.

The picture (above) is because that was what was waiting on me on my bathroom vanity when I woke up. And the "Jenny" is a name that only he is allowed to call me. Nobody else ever calls me that. (Well, sometimes Tricia does, but mainly it's Todd's name for me.)

This picture is part of a God thing. I love God things! What I mean by that term is something only He could do. No other explanation fits these little (and sometimes HUGE) moments. I lit my candle this morning and was praying for the peace that exceeds anything we can understand (Phil. 4:6 and 7) to rule in our home this day. After my prayer was done, I opened to day 4 of my Breaking Free Bible study homework. Check out that title: To Experience God's Peace.

Isn't He something? I took that as a word from Him today...my precious Savior, my Redeemer.

Lastly, this is a picture of one of today's verses in my homework. In case you can't read it, I'll write it out.

"Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed," says the LORD, who has compassion on you. Isaiah 54:10

If you get nothing out of this random post but one thing, let it be that God's peace for those who walk with Him will NEVER be removed from us. He alone is our peace. Our safety. Our refuge. No matter what comes your way, He is right there beside you...if you believe in Him and if you walk uprightly with Him.

Isaiah 57:2 "Those who walk uprightly enter into peace;...

Do you know Him? Are you walking with Him? Is He your One, your Only? Your Savior? Your Redeemer? Have you asked forgiveness? Have you asked Him to abide in you all the days of your life?

I hope so. I really want all of you in Heaven with me someday. Love to all.

I'm Thankful

2011-09-28T10:10:00.000-05:00

For the freedom I have in Christ Jesus. I don't have to worry about saving myself, or seeming perfect in the eyes of the world...I get to be me...flawed, broken and in constant need of His hand in my life.

For a Christian radio station. I seriously do NOT know what I would do without the blessing of Klove.

For a day that my kids get to meet other kids around the flag pole at their school and pray for their friends, their school and their city.

For the promises that comes from God in His word...just this morning I read in Isaiah about the ministry of Jesus Christ. He came to preach the good news to the poor, to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to comfort all who mourn and provide for those who grieve, to bestow a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of despair. (Taken from Isaiah 61:1-3)

For the right to be able to pray with a group of amazing friends. My Mom's in Touch group has blessed my life in so many ways...and if I need someone to pray for something...then I can call them. These ladies love the Lord with all their hearts, souls, minds and strength. God is so good for bringing them into my life.

Quiet time in the morning...my favorite way to spend my morning is in God's word...and I am loving the new Bible study I started last Wednesday night at church. I love the homework more than anything...it brings me so much closer to God and I feel like I get to know Him better through it.

Praise and worship cd's. Enough said. Current favorite: Gateway Worship. Ahmaaaaaaazing.

Being able to help out in First Kids' Church...and worshiping alongside almost 200 kids this past Sunday morning. Those little guys bless my socks off...and make me wish I could rewind and go back to First Kids' Camp. I am counting down till next year.

My amazing family. I love them so much it hurts. I am so blessed to be able to drive them to school, to make their lunches, to cook dinner for them, to buy their favorite foods for them, to be able to be home with them when they come home from school...I love the honor and privilege of being a wife and mother. I was called to do exactly this...my daily life. I praise God that He has shown me the effectiveness of that calling and I am blessed because of it.

Well...I must go. Love to all.

Remember Me?

2011-09-25T16:37:00.000-05:00

I'm in a writing funk. Life is great, and all is well with us, I just haven't been in the mood to write.

I will tell you that this weekend was amazing. We've spent lots of time at church, and I have been so blessed (once again) by all the love poured into our kids' lives. :) God is so good, and our church is doing great things to make sure kids everywhere know Him.

Random thing of the weekend: it's sunny outside, 80 degrees and we're under a tornado warning. Which never happens this late in the year. Weird, I know. Welcome to Memphis.

I don't have much for now...hopefully this little bit will inspire me to write more later.

Love to all!

Happy Friday!

2011-09-09T06:53:00.000-05:00

It's my favorite week day! The weather this week has been ahhhmaazing! High's in the mid-upper 70's, lows in the 50's...perfection. Right now it's a cool 52*...and I cannot wait to sit out in this amazing-ness tonight at the CHS football game.

And we are finally getting to have our redneck campfire after the game! We invited some friends over after the game tonight. I. CANNOT. WAIT. :)

Before tonight, though, after I drop all the kiddos off at school, I am heading to Chik-Fil-A to meet a friend that goes all the way back to my elementary years. I'm excited about seeing her after all these years...we graduated together, but by the time high school came around, we had grown apart. Another girl was supposed to join us that we graduated with, but she's unable to make it. I'm excited about catching up, though...it's been ages.

My sweet Daddy comes over today. I think he's coming to the game with us, too...he's been itching to get back into a football game. This is his favorite thing...high school football. We used to go every single Friday night when I was a young girl. He didn't come with us last week because he wasn't feeling well, but this week, all is good.

It's going to be an awesome weekend...and I can't wait to get it started. I hope all of you have a wonderful Friday...get outside and enjoy this amazing weather! Love to all.

Tough Conversations

2011-09-08T10:45:00.000-05:00

I read a blog post this morning from a wife and homeschooling mom named Courtney. If you're interested in reading what I'm talking about, go HERE and check it out for yourself.

Let me start by saying that I love how she so graciously responds to some pretty vicious attacks. The article is called, 'My Conversation With an Atheist'. In this post, she lets us in to see how her daily walk with the Lord makes her a target for condemnation and slander.

I am considering buying the book she talks about in the article, Evidence Demands A Verdict, by Josh McDowell. Why? Because I want to be prepared to answer some pretty tough questions, should the need ever arise.

And I think that we are at the point that we need to be prepared. In the South, where we're still known as 'the Bible belt', we don't see quite as much adversary as people in the North. (And yes, I do believe your location makes a difference.)

I think that more and more issues are going to pop into our lives on a daily basis...and we as Christians need to be equipped to answer some of those questions.

The only way to do that is to stay in the Word.

Second Timothy 3:16 and 17 says that "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."

Every 'good work'...sharing with others all about Jesus. How He was born a man, and was the only perfect man to have ever walked this earth. How He was innocent...yet died a sinner's death on a cross. For us...so that we could live eternally with Him when we leave this earth behind. How death could not keep Him...three days after His burial, He rose again. And now He sits at the right hand of God the Father.

He loves all of us. No matter the sin we've committed, He loves us all the same. Aren't you glad that you don't have to depend on yourself to get you by in this life? I'm so thankful that I have One that I can look to for guidance, for wisdom...I trust Him. Do you?

It's funny that my dad and I were talking about this very subject last Friday. We laughed at a story he told me about the vacation they just got back from. They met a nice waitress from Japan while they were in Montana (Oregon? Wyoming? It doesn't matter.). Dad asked her if she had ever heard of Elvis.

Then he thought, "ELVIS??? Shouldn't I have instead asked her if she knew JESUS?"

It was funny to both of us. (The girl had never heard of Elvis Presley, by the way. Hopefully she has heard of Jesus.)

But it was sad to both of us, as well. Why do we talk endlessly of some things and not nearly enough of the subjects that matter. Like where we're going to spend our eternity. I don't want any of my family and friends to be left behind...I want them all in Heaven with me. I love them all so much...I don't want to think about them not being there.

Dad and I agreed to pray for one another to be bold in our faith...bold, yet loving. Some Christians come across as 'in your face', and I don't want to be like that. I want to be kind, gentle, loving, yet firm in my faith and my beliefs. Don't you??

I'm thinking that my dad's prayers are coming to fruition in me. I pray that I always answer any question in love and kindness. All for His glory...for His kingdom...so that all of my loved ones can be with me in our life eternal.

Jonah and Noah talked about Heaven yesterday. I love their simple, child-like beliefs. You know we're called to be like children. The Bible talks about the faith of a child...to me that means to just believe. To know. To trust. To have faith in Him. And He'll do all the rest. Anyway, we talked about Heaven yesterday. Noah wanted to know if we would see Sambo someday in Heaven. I don't know if animals will be in Heaven, but I don't think so. But I didn't say that to him...I told him that we might. And we might...we really might. I don't know anyone that's still alive that I can ask. ;-) We talked about angels that are all around us, and the streets of gold that Heaven will have.

I love my life on this earth...I am blessed to be a wife and mom of some pretty amazing short people. But when I think of Heaven and what it will be like reuniting with all those who've gone on before me...my heart gets all fluttery with excitement. I cannot imagine the worship that will be taking place. I cannot wait to see the glorified bodies of my precious God-fearing grandmothers, my grandfathers (one of whom I've never even met), my aunts, my uncles, my niece Ashley...

I want to be prepared. Do you?

Can I pray for you? Or for a family member? A friend?

I would consider it an honor.

I hope you have a blessed day. Love to all.

Worship

2011-09-07T10:09:00.001-05:00

My Mornings

2011-09-07T06:51:00.000-05:00

They're my favorite.

Especially when I'm able to jump out of bed easily and shower in a reasonable amount of time.

I love waking up while everyone is asleep and coming downstairs while the it's still dark.

I love watching the sun slowly makes its way up in the sky every morning.

I love that first cup of coffee...don't you? It's the best.

I love sitting in my chair, or at the kitchen table, with a cup of coffee and an open Bible. That time is precious to me. It sets the tone for my entire day.

I love mornings when I don't have anything going on until work. I can come home, pack Jonah's and Noah's lunch, and spend more time in the Word.

I love popping in one of my favorite worship cd's and worshiping my little heart out...right in my very own kitchen. Some of the best 'church' I've ever had has taken place in there.

I love seeing the completed task of folded laundry.

I love that the boys try their best to get up in time to make their beds each morning. (Although I don't think it happened today. But it's okay...I'm always pleasantly surprised when they do.)

I just love the routine of our mornings. I LOVE routine. :) I know...I'm a nerd.

What do YOU love?

If you were a fly on our wall tonight....

2011-09-06T20:19:00.000-05:00

You would have seen Drew licking his plate like a dog. Seriously. It was brown gravy and rice. And hamburger steak with gravy, green beans and black eyed peas. And garlic bread.

You would have heard some Christmas music being played in my kitchen.

You would have heard how Jonah told us that (once again) the tooth fairy forgot to bring him money last night.

And how a girl in his class at school doesn't get $1 for a tooth, but $2 a tooth.

You would have seen Todd almost spit his food out to keep from laughing out loud.

You would have heard me threaten to smack Graham when he said, "I need to speak with the chef."

You would NOT have heard the television.

You would have heard the sweet music of kids voices playing outside and using their creative little imaginations.

You would have overheard a couple of sweet phone calls I had with some teachers...Jonah's and Noah's, and Graham's. :)

You would have heard me being everything BUT the Proverbs 31 woman. Open mouth...insert foot.

Don't judge.

G'night.

Blessed

2011-09-06T07:06:00.000-05:00

It's been a great weekend. We had a couple of little 'setbacks', but all is good now. My car decided to start acting all weird Saturday night at my sister's house, but my personal mechanic got it all working properly again. ;-)

We were able to watch some Friday night football...CHS Dragons vs. Houston Mustangs. The Dragons won. In a sit-on-the-edge-of-your-seat ending, no less.

Yesterday we had friends come over for a cookout. We were going to get a fire going in our fire pit and roast marshmallows for s'mores, but it was too windy.

We still had a great time, though. We just played cards instead.

I'm thinking tonight we might have to have that fire. :)

The weather is ahhhmaaazing this week. High's in the mid to upper 70's, lows in the lower to mid 50's...perfect! I just wish we were on a camping trip.

That's okay, though...hopefully we'll have one of those soon. It's weather like this that is the perfect camping weather.

I'm looking forward to another great week...I hope you all have one as well.

Love to all.

the usual weekly random

2011-09-01T20:00:00.000-05:00

The kids lost their minds in the cafeteria today. Seriously. I had to get mean a couple times!

I no longer hate Officer Smiley. I just moderately put up with him coming in and bugging the kids.

Graham's teacher is amazing. She was confused by a weird email I dictated to him and just said, "Call me..." with her number at the end of it. LOVE HER. P.S. That doesn't happen nowadays. Teachers never give out their numbers anymore. Not that I would ever abuse it, but still...made my heart all happy.

Drew is bummed because Mr. Zoska is moving up to seventh grade.

Graham is excited because Mr. Zoska is moving up to seventh grade. :)

I have not felt very nice all day.

I cannot WAIT to enjoy a long weekend. Big plans...lots of things going on...so, so excited. And God bless all the teachers...I know they're as ready as my kids!

I heart Jonah's and Noah's teacher. I feel like she's my best friend...I'm that comfortable with her. And so are they.

The dinner I made tonight almost made me sick to my stomach. More on that later. Maybe. It is very damaging to my pride and I'm feeling fragile tonight.

My sister turns 43 tomorrow!!! And Trishy, I'm sorry for revealing your age on here.

I had a pity party last night...and it was so lonely in my head. :( More on that later, too...maybe.

I love my family. L.O.V.E.

I don't like my hair. Especially today.

How many episodes of Wipeout can there be??? Seriously...they're all the exact same, yet to my boys, it never gets old.

I need some nail polish therapy. Gonna go paint my nails now.

Love to all.

tonight

2011-08-30T21:36:00.000-05:00

I had such a nice evening tonight. I was honored to be able to go out and eat dinner with two beautiful, Godly friends from my old church. I love them so much...and miss them terribly. I'm fortunate that my sweet husband doesn't mind if I go out with them every month or so.

We're aiming for that...dinner out once a month.

One of the ladies is my accountability partner. I cherish her friendship and her honesty with me. I love that we can pray for each other and hold each other accountable to staying in God's word. We might not talk on the phone much (hardly ever, actually), but we do email and text. A lot.

I love the 'seasoned' friends God has given me. By that I mean the kind of women who have lived a little bit longer than I have and can help keep me on track. I love that we're so very different...but so very much alike, living our lives for one purpose: to serve and glorify HIM.

I'm so blessed by my precious friends. Dinner was heavenly. We had Japanese and I tried sushi for the second time. And liked it so much more than my first attempt at it.

Thank You, Lord, for Your many blessings. I don't know why I'm blessed...but I am. All praise and honor and glory to You. Forever and ever.

Psalm 145

2011-08-30T10:10:00.000-05:00

1 I will exalt You, my God and King, and praise Your name forever and ever.

2 I will praise You every day; yes, I will praise You forever.

3 Great is the LORD! He is most worthy of praise! No one can measure His greatness.

4 Let each generation tell its children of Your mighty acts; let them proclaim Your power.

5 I will meditate on Your majestic, glorious splendor and Your wonderful miracles.

6 Your awe-inspiring deeds will be on every tongue; I will proclaim Your greatness.

7 Everyone will share the story of Your wonderful goodness; they will sing with joy about Your righteousness.

8 The LORD is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love.

9 The LORD is good to everyone. He showers compassion on all His creation.

10 All of Your works will thank You, LORD, and Your faithful followers will praise You.

11 They will speak of the glory of Your kingdom; they will give examples of Your power.

12 They will tell about Your mighty deeds and about the majesty and glory of Your reign.

13 For Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom. You rule throughout all generations. The LORD always keeps His promises; He is gracious in all He does.

14 The LORD helps the fallen and lifts those bent beneath their loads.

15 The eyes of all look to You in hope; You give them their food as they need it.

16 When You open Your hand, You satisfy the hunger and thirst of every living thing.

17 The LORD is righteous in everything He does; He is filled with kindness.

18 The LORD is close to all who call on Him, yes, to all who call on Him in truth.

19 He grants the desires of those who fear Him; He hears their cries for help and rescues them.

20 The LORD protects all those who love Him, but He destroys the wicked.

21 I will praise the LORD, and may everyone on earth bless His holy name forever and ever.

Happy Thursday!

2011-08-25T10:36:00.000-05:00

It's a gorgeous day outside...the temp is only *78 for the moment and the sun is shining. It's another day that we are all alive and well. And I am thankful. And blessed.

I love what the pastor at our old church used to say~"Your attitude is the most important thing you will put on everyday."

What kind of attitude are you putting on?

I am speaking to myself, here, so just bear with me. If you wake up thinking it's going to be a bad day...then it is. If you wake up thankful for the new day God has blessed you with...well, it's hard to have a bad day with that mentality.

I was hit with these thoughts on my way home from Walmart this morning. I was listening to Klove when I got the thought. I also heard a really amazing quote that I shared on facebook:

"Don't tell God how big your problems are. Tell your problems how big your God is."

He is...there is nothing too great, nothing too small.

He loves us and He cares for us. Every single little detail in our lives.

Just thought I'd share some of my thoughts with you. I hope you all have a wonderfully, blessed day. Love to all.

What are you called to be?

2011-08-24T09:52:00.000-05:00

Nehemiah was called to be a builder. (He's the one that was responsible for rebuilding the wall around Jerusalem.)

Esther was called to be queen "for such a time as this" (Esther 4:14).

Daniel was called to be a man of integrity and a prophet.

Noah was called to build the ark.

What are you called to be?

For this time in my life I am called to be a child of God, a Godly (submissive) wife and mom to my boys, and a friendly face in the cafeteria at our elementary school.

I am called to be an attentive ear, a lady that gives hugs to kids that hold their arms out to me, a friend they can talk to, a glimpse of my sweet Jesus. In fact, I might be the only glimpse of Jesus they ever see. Am I always happy? No. But I try to put a smile on my face just for them.

I am called to be a daughter that honors my mother and father, a praying friend, a loving sister, an ever-praying aunt.

No matter where you are in life, there is nothing that is unimportant. We're called to do our best at all that we do. I love this verse and pray it over my kids every single day:

"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men." Colossians 3:23

I don't care if you're a lawyer, a doctor, a teacher, a sanitation worker, a maintenance person, or a mom of wee ones.

Whatever you do...work at it with all your heart.

I remember feeling so useless when my kids were all under the school age. I felt like the only thing I did day after day was sit in my house, stare at the same walls, clean the kitchen and any other mess, and clean them up. I was sad that I didn't have friends that were walking through the same thing. This was during a time that we were not faithful in attending church. You see the dilemma I faced.

Looking back, I see the root of my problem...it was that we were not being faithful to God. We had Him kind of on the side line...there when we needed Him, but forgetting about Him when things were going great. We prayed only when we remembered and we were not involved in church. We went one time a week. On Sunday mornings, and we didn't even stay for Sunday school.

If only I had those days to do over...I would have mothered with much more love and kindness. I would have played outside with them more, I wouldn't have made them ask me to go to the park for a picnic.

But I don't have those days to do over. The only thing I can do now to make up for all that I lacked back then is to move forward. To give my husband and my boys my very best. To cover them in prayer any and every chance I get, to love them with my entire being.

And (even more importantly) to love God first.

Because when I love Him first, everything else just falls into place. When I take the time to pray and spend time reading in His written word, I am communicating with Him. I'm letting Him guide me through life. And He speaks to me during this time. Through His holy word. He and His word are the foundations of my life.

I am called to be His daughter. His treasured possession. His bride. A Godly wife. A Godly mom. A taxi driver that hauls kids to and from school, who is known to read devotions and to pray over a whole slew of kids that don't belong to me, all done while in the car. A praying friend. A respectable daughter. A holy example of what my Savior looks like.

What are you called to be?

"And the LORD has declared this day that you are his people, his treasured possession as he promised, and that you are to keep all his commands." Deuteronomy 26:18

Spend some time with Him today. Determine what you're called to be.

Love to all.

It's Almost Friday...With A Little Bit of Random Thrown In

2011-08-18T07:23:00.000-05:00

It's been a great week, so don't get me wrong...for that I am thankful. I'm just always ready for Friday. This week will be a little different because my dad won't be coming over when I get off work. Him and my stepmom left for a two week vacay in and all around Montana. I think they're starting in Chicago, going into Montana and up into Canada. And get this...it's an Amtrak trip. :)

I live vicariously through my dad's vacations. I want to be just like him when I grow up.

Anyway, it's probably going to be a busy weekend. My hubby and I have a date night tomorrow night. It's been a while, so I'm excited. We're going to Bonefish and after that...who knows? Todd's parents are taking the boys to the Orpheum to see the Wizard of Oz. They're excited about that...they've all seen the movie and love it. Saturday night our best couple friends are coming over to eat and play cards...it's been way too long, and we're always so excited to get together with them. These sweet friends would be the parents of Graham's and Drew's best friend in the world, DC.

My sweet little kindergarten friends have been with us in school all week. Each day is getting a little bit better. But God love their little hearts, some of them come into the cafeteria crying everyday. Some even get out of their cars in the morning crying! It's enough to make me want to sit down beside them and cry right alongside them. I just keep praying for them...I almost can't bear to hear them cry like that. I'm so thankful that I'm able to pray for them while I'm there...I hope all their mom's know how much each of those kids is loved. By their teachers, by the sweet assistants we have, by me...we're blessed to be able to work with such precious angels!

Precious and wonderful...in the words of the infamous Mrs. Miles...how I miss that sweet lady! She was Jonah's kindergarten teacher who moved to Florida last year...I always think of how much she LOVED kindergarten! Moving on now...

I almost couldn't get out of bed this morning. I even went to bed at 9:30. :( I don't know why, but I couldn't seem to wake up. This is one of the days that I couldn't get to my coffee fast enough! Thank the Lord for coffee, right??

Well, I need to get the littles up and moving about. I hope all of you have a wonderfully blessed Thursday! Love to all!

Friends

2011-08-16T07:29:00.000-05:00

They're a blessing from God. I know you probably get tired of reading that...but they are. I haven't always made friends easily. I was always shy in high school and I didn't like most of the girls. (I said "most", not "all".) I don't really know when that changed, but my shyness disappeared, and all of a sudden I was outgoing.

Not crazy outgoing, but a lot more than I used to be. :) I still hate to stand in front of a group, and I still consider myself to be on the reserved side of things, but I'm not shy anymore.

Back to friends...I love the ones that God has placed in my life. They're the "iron sharpens iron" kind of friends. I'm fortunate to be able to either see them or at least talk to them on a regular basis. I know this is something a lot of women struggle with...finding a special friend you can be yourself with. Trust me when I say that I do not take them for granted. I always thank God for them...and for the reasons he brought them into my life.

That being said...I'm looking forward to this morning when my best friend comes and haves breakfast with me. I've known this sweet girl since we were in 7th or 8th grade. I love the time we have together...and it might not be all too often that we see each other, but we always pick right back up where we left off. And the hour and a half we have together feels more like 5 minutes. I could talk to her all day.

If you're reading this and you've got some special women in your life, thank God for them. And remember:

"Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." John 15:13

Apples of Gold

2011-08-15T07:22:00.000-05:00

My kids have had some amazing teachers over the years. That still rings true this new school year. We are so blessed to have had so many God-loving teachers.

I love, especially, the beginning of a school year. I love when the teachers make themselves "real" to our kids...and talk about their families, their furry children, their careers, their hobbies...and I love the enthusiasm that my kids have to learn about them.

I'm blessed to have children that love school and do well. They love getting to know new teachers, and I hope their teachers enjoy getting to know them. For instance, Jonah's and Noah's teacher had her daughter come up to the school one day last week to help out in the classroom. She's a junior in high school, so this was a pretty cool thing in the eyes of third graders. Jonah came home that afternoon and told me that "she was beautiful". His words, not mine.

I'm so thankful for our teachers this morning...and in light of Mom's In Touch being this morning and saying special prayers over them for this week, I thought I would share this word.

"A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver." Proverbs 25:11

For all my sweet teacher friends: thank you for what you do. I'm praying for you today.

Love to all.

a few of my favorite things (Sunday edition)

2011-08-14T08:02:00.000-05:00

Sunday mornings...and quieting my heart before we go to church
The first cup of coffee in the morning
A quiet house first thing in the morning
Reading my Bible early, when there are no other sounds anywhere
Church
Singing and worshiping the Lord...He is so worthy of all our praise!
Sitting next to my husband and older 2 boys in church
Taking notes on the pastor's sermon
Flipping through the pages of my Bible and reading what God has done through His word (yes, my Bible is all marked up!)
When Brother Chuck tells us to turn our Bibles to a certain place, there are a few moments when the only sounds are the pages being turned.
Sunday naps :)

I love everything about Sunday. The best part of the whole day is that it's the day we focus on God. You don't have to go to church to get into Heaven, but God meant for us to have fellowship with a body of believers. I love church family...and cannot imagine my life without them. I am a much nicer person when I'm faithful in church.

If you're thinking about not going today, I encourage you to go anyway. You will be blessed, I assure you. I'll be at Collierville First Baptist...why not join us (if you're local and looking for one?)? I hope you all have a blessed day in the Lord! Love to all.

Sweet Family Time

2011-08-13T21:46:00.000-05:00

It's priceless, don't you think?

We were on our way home from Nana's and Big Daddy's tonight, when I heard Graham say, "Hey, remember that time we were downtown at the Veteran's day parade? And Noah saw the homeless man and said, 'hey there's a hobo!'?"

It made my heart so happy to hear my kids talk about a memory like that. Not that that was a great moment, but it was pretty funny. And Noah was only five, so he really didn't know better yet. Luckily, the poor man (not literally) was across the street and didn't hear us.

We experience sweet family time tonight. We are so richly blessed, my friend. All of us.

Love to all.

August 13 of Jesus Calling

2011-08-13T09:33:00.000-05:00

I loved this morning's devotion from Jesus Calling, so I thought it would share it with you. All of the below is written by Sarah Young.

***************

Learn to enjoy life more. Relax, remembering that I am God with you. I crafted you with enormous capacity to know Me and enjoy My Presence. When My people wear sour faces and walk through their lives with resigned rigidity, I am displeased. When you walk through a day with childlike delight, savoring every blessing, you proclaim your trust in Me, your ever-present Shepherd. The more you focus on My Presence with you, the more fully you can enjoy life. Glorify Me through your pleasure in Me. Thus you proclaim My Presence to the watching world.

Matthew 1:23 “The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel which means, God with us."

John 10:10, 11 "The thief comes only to steal, kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for His sheep."

***************

That spoke volumes to me today. I am always super aware of people's faces. I try to be aware of mine, too. In working with kids, I try to keep my face "open" and friendly. I try to put myself in their shoes and think whether or not my face reflects my personality. If I have a frown, then I'm going to come across as un-friendly. If I have a pleasant expression, I am showing to them that I am nice and that I care about them.

Now, trust me, there are plenty of days when I frown. But for the most part, I try my best to smile.

Have you ever met someone who frowned all the time? Our faces reflect our words. And our words have the power to tear down or build up. I choose to build up.

I also love the part in the devotion that says in walking through our day with childlike delight, we are reflecting our trust in the Lord.

My challenge for all of us today is to be aware of ourselves...our facial expressions, our words and our behavior. For most of us, there are little eyes and ears that follow us wherever we go.

Happy Saturday and love to all. :)

Happy Friday!

2011-08-12T07:26:00.000-05:00

The first weekend of the school year! We made it!! The first week is always the hardest. I always feel if we can make it through the first week, that we're good to go. We've done some changing around and some modifying with transportation, but other than that, we are good to go!

So last night, I totally went to bed at 8:30. I told you I was beat. I fell asleep by 9:15. :) I think this week has officially gotten to me.

I have no clue what we're doing tonight...but whatever it is, I am just glad we will all be together.

I'm praying Drew remembers his new schedule today. I'm sure he'll be fine. They're both super excited because they're walking home with friends today. Our bus has been so late everyday that I changed them to 'walkers'. I'm meeting Graham at his friend's house, and Drew is going home with his friend to hang out for a little while.

Big boys. So fun, but so sad for their momma.

I hope you all have an incredibly wonderful, blessed Friday. Love to all!

Blessed

2011-08-11T20:13:00.000-05:00

I feel so blessed. Today was a great day. (And before you question, even on bad days, I am still blessed.)

Drew had an issue with his schedule that Todd was able to resolve today. The administration at middle school is great about that...jumping on things quickly. Mr. McCain was very nice about the whole thing, and when Todd walked out, he had a copy of it in his hand.

With the schedule change came 2 changes: his math and social studies teachers. He now has the awesome Mr. Zoska and the sweet Ms. Zanone for math. He is one happy camper.

On top of all that, we completed the night with Jonah's and Noah's third grade parent meeting. I (we all) absolutely adore his teacher. She's also a friend of Todd's and his brother's from high school. She's young, fun, and brilliant. She also has a "smart board" that we were amazed at. She lets the kids go up to it and write on it. (Think giant iPad.) It's the coolest thing ever...it's called a premethean, and she's the only teacher in third grade to have it.

And...to make the day even better, we visited my sweet friend and chiropractor, Tammy. She is making my back feel better and better. Hopefully tomorrow I will be (at least close to) pain free.

Well...I'm about to hit the sack. Yup. At 8:11, I am completely and totally exhausted. Happy almost Friday! Love to all.

Conversations

2011-08-11T07:22:00.000-05:00

It's been interesting finding our way back into a schedule. Along with that comes the need to find time for conversations. For instance, last year when Graham got home, he would come in and get a small snack and drink, then we would head up to the elementary school to get in car line. We had a good, uninterrupted 25 minutes every single day. Unless he wanted to stay home, which only rarely happened.

This year, neither Graham nor Drew has wanted to come with me yet.

So we're finding time to talk at random times...like in the mornings. This morning we just sat and talked while they waited to go to the bus stop. I've also been hanging out in their rooms at night, reading stories, praying and talking to them.

It's important that we take the time and have these conversations with our kids. Not just talking AT them, but talking WITH them.

There's a huge difference in those two words. Don't get me wrong...sometimes as parents, we have to talk "at" them. But the times when we don't have to do that...and we have the opportunity for a good conversation, we need to jump all over it. I know the older they get the less this might happen, but if we form good habits early enough, they're more likely to continue them as the teen years approach.

Our time with them goes all too quickly. I personally think my kids are pretty cool little guys. I love getting to know more about what they do and what they love at school. It's a neat opportunity to see them from a different angle. My friend made a great point at camp...she said that if parents could only see their kids away at camp, they might be shocked. I don't know if she meant "shocked" in a good way or a bad way, but she was right.

It's our job to help mold them into people. I don't want to take a single moment for granted.

Love to all.