fingerprints on the Glass

From Happy New Year to Happy August

2011-08-01T13:16:00.004-05:00

It is hard to believe that I haven't posted since January. We had a wonderful spring. Summer has been a blast!

We went to North Carolina with both sets of Grandparents. Benjamin and my mom got a little off the trail. He spotted a baby bear. Really, if you know my mom that is hilarious! She suggested making lots of noise and getting on some stumps. You can look for her on the next round of Dual Survivor. :) We went tubbing down a mountain stream-the coldest water I have ever been in to date. I screamed and laughed the whole way! The boys are all brave little dare devils! We also rode a train through the mountains. We loved the Hemlock Inn. Thanks mom and dad for a great trip!!!!!!!

In July, Ben surprised me with a 10 year anniversary trip to SeaSide. We went there on our honeymoon. He made friends with the proud owners of a YoLo board. Really fun! I am too scared of sharks, but he did great! Wow! 10 GREAT years. That needs to be a whole different post. I am truly blessed with absolutely the best husband! He is a true picture of Christ to me.

We just returned from a trip to the Grand Hotel in Fairhope. We ate dinner at sunset while the boys played croquette. There were ping pong battles, cannons fired, kayaking in the bay, going out on the catamaran, Wii music tournaments, putt putt, water slides, lazy rivers, pole fishing, bicycle riding, and lots of fun! Thanks Pop and Mama Sue!

Ben got a canoe for his birthday. That has been a lot of fun for our family. It is a bit like a kayak that seats 5 people. We found a little spring that is really, really, really deep. The boys like to dive to the depths and explore the underwater world. I was really amazed when Benjamin jumped in with no one else. Way braver than I am! I mean this water is coming up out of the earth! REALLY DEEP. Ben did get in with him, but we let him exert his manhood a bit and head in first. I sometimes think that parenting all boys (at least for the type like myself) means praying and simply closing your eyes....and asking Ben are you sure this is okay?!?!?

Just the swimming pool is an exercise for me not to squelch that need little boys have to conquer, or prove that they have what it takes. I am convinced that life's lessons could be taught on the diving board. I often just have to bite the inside of my cheek and smile. That leads to a whole different post too!

By the way, school supplies are in our closet and I am giddy with excitement!

Maybe I will get around to posting again before Christmas.

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T16:09:00.003-06:00

We have traveled to Missouri. We loved every minute.

We have enjoyed around 5 different family Christmas Celebrations.

We celebrated New Year's Eve with dear friends and their families.

We have undecorated our house.

Our children have become a bit of what I would describe as wild. Sweet; oh so sweet. BUT wild. You know it's the whole 3 little boys thing. Lots of energy and today was rainy. I feel the need for boot camp. Does anyone else feel that way?

Happy New Year to you and your family!

thank you flickr.com

When the checklist gets off

2010-12-22T19:48:00.007-06:00

Um, okay. Deep breaths. Today, I didn't get the cleaning done! :( I know you think no big deal, but it is. To me. So, I will try to get it done tonight. Sweet Ben is actually folding the laundry as we speak. We laughed at the quantity of clothing tonight! The blessing- ALLLLLL of those little shirts and pants! Miss matched socks galore. All due to the blessing of a full quiver!

I have been experiencing ADD cleaning. You know what I am talking about unless you are a super woman and seriously organized. But for the vast majority of us-this occurs during the times we need to have our cleaning done ASAP. ADD cleaning results when too many returned Christmas cards that you have no addresses for pile on your calendar, cardboard boxes that Christmas gifts were shipped in became a fort, a garage that is beginning to look like it needs a yellow caution sign around it, and the Christmas baking done on Tuesday didn't get cleaned up last night all needs to be tended to BEFORE you can EVEN BEGIN CLEANING-please say AMEN so I know I am NOT alone!
So, I did get the garage cleaned out today. I didn't clean the house; not yet anyway. If all else fails, we'll eat Christmas Brunch in the garage. Hugs and caffeine as we await SATURDAY!

Tis The Season

2010-12-21T09:15:00.005-06:00

Hi Gals! Well we are on the Count down to Christmas aren't we? I can't believe how quickly it has come! This is my favorite time of year. Isn't it amazing that the Son of Heaven came and put on skin-wow! Emanuel-God with us! I was so fortunate to share this with a third grade class this year with a friend of mine, Jennifer! WE had a BLAST!!!! Talk about getting into the Christmas spirit! Going into a secular school and sharing the history Christmas is breathtaking! Their faces are priceless, their hearts are truly beautiful, their souls-hungry for truth. Aren't we all! Whether you know Jesus or not, we all hunger for Truth. Jennifer and I really were the ones that were blessed as we shared-a reminder of WHY we celebrate Christmas! I think the point I came away with was Emanuel-God with us!

My mom treated me to a weekend away and we had a soul spa-a Deeper Still conference in Birmingham. One of my brother's friends got us a ticket and boy was it great! The three speakers were Kay Arthur (she still blows my socks off), Priscilla Shirer(the chic has it going on), and Beth Moore (need I say more...no pun intended-lol). The week before we left, mom gave me the Michael W. Smith cd- A New Hallelujah. Check out the song Deep In Love With You. Beautiful. Now you girls go grab that thing put it on your iPod and tell me thank you later. You will have your own little praise time; I promise!

Now, here are some of my steps to a sane Christmas.

It begins today.

1. Bake ONLY 3 different goodies. Mine happen to be: sugar cookies, Muddy Buddies (not overly Christmas like, but who doesn't LOVE this stuff?), and Buck Eyes.

Sugar cookie is from a mix and the boys will decorate.

Muddy Buddies-easy. The boys can shake the bag!

Buckeyes-I remember these as a favorite "goody" that came our way at Christmas. The boys can roll these little chocolate gems.

2. While baking, I will run laundry. House will be messy and that is OKAY!!!!! My only goal for today is baking and washing clothes.

Wednesday:

1. Cleaning house. Boys have Christmas decorations to make, so they will work on this while I clean. We'll see how it pans out. :)

2. Weds. night I will do the Christmas Cooking grocery run. Maybe. I am getting older you know, so I might exert all the energy I have cleaning. Grocery may have to be pushed to Thursday.

Thursday:

1. Iron-MAYBE

2. Paint ornaments with the boys. We bought the plastic, clear balls from Michaels and some cute ribbon and paint. I will let you know what we come out with! I am a craft gal that doesn't have a plan, just throw some supplies out and let the kiddos go at it! They usually do better than I would have anyway!

3. Grocery-I am TRULY A WALMART gal. Sorry you Publix fans, I tried. I really did. I watched my receipts and I save about $25.00 at least(actually that is a generous figure) at Walmart. I will tell you I DO NOT get my meat at Wally World. I like Sam's or our friends Suzanne and Jeorge for organic meats. You really HAVE to try their homemade jams! I ordered jams for stocking stuffers for family this year.

Friday:

Sip coffee, enjoy family (my brother Brad is coming and we are sooooo excited!), and prep food for a fun and hopefully tasty Christmas morning brunch with all of our family-except we will miss Aunt Brooke and Uncle Daniel, but they will be enjoying time with her sweet family.

Saturday:

Rejoice with family about Jesus' Birthday-I surely need a Savior!

Sunday:

We'll be on the Big Jet in the sky on our way to see Daddy George, and our FABULOUS cousins! We can't wait!

Now, a confessional. We are Dave Ramsey fans. We are not overboard, but thankfully, he has helped us shape our finances very early on in our marriage. I am not sure, but I don't think I am doing my best in this area. Is that weak or what? Okay, I am sure I am not doing my best. We are hitting the envelopes again next week. I really love the envelope system. From what I hear you can do it online, but if you know me well, you know it's a stretch for me to download pictures. :) So, I am actually excited to have the envelopes going again. It is called Financial Peace for a reason.

Now, girl go get yourself that cd or download A New Hallelujah and get going. I am off to start the laundry mountain. I think I need to be secured by bungee cords in order to do this! LOL!

Get your Christmas lights plugged in, turn your music up, and by all means, dance a little as you do your work!

Recipe for Extraordinary Ohio Buckeyes:

1 cup creamy peanut butter

1/2 cup margarine

1 3/4 cup powdered sugar

2 cups semisweet, milk chocolate chips

Toothpicks for dipping

Line cookie sheets with wax paper and set aside. Mix peanut butter and butter until creamy. Add sugar a little at a time. Refrigerate for 30 minutes. Roll peanut butter mixture into 1-inch balls. Place on wax paper and freeze for 30 minutes or until firm. In microwave-safe dish, melt chocolate chips in microwave on high for about 30 seconds. Stir. Repeat until chips are melted. Do not scorch. Insert toothpicks into frozen peanut butter balls and dip balls in chocolate. Let cool on wax paper. Store in cool place. Makes about 100 buckeyes.

I am Here!

2010-12-08T12:58:00.003-06:00

Hello my friends! We have been in a busy place in our lives. Do you know about that? I bet you do. So, if you are a bit busy-here is a hug from me to you. {{{{}}}}} Take a deep breath, go get a warm blanket, cup of tea or coffee, and don't read here any more. Go get your Bible. That's right. Let's get our eyes on Jesus. I am going to do that right now. I miss you all! Leave me a note. I'll be back to posting in a few days.

The 22nd

2010-09-22T15:45:00.002-05:00

Today is a special day for these two. Our David is 4 and my Daddy George is 88. There is 84 years between these two fellas, but man do I love them both!!!!! I am so thankful that they share the same birthday!

David,

What a joy you are to all that meet you! You are full of energy and wit. You love K-3 and dance around as you get ready to go to Preschool. Your smile is contagious and your laugh warms my heart. Daddy, Benjamin, Luke, and I are praying that you will know what it means to put your trust in Jesus an early age. You often ask me where God is. I smile as I tell you He is all around. You look for Him as I tell you this and I know soon, you will see Him too. You have a warm heart that loves others. Daddy and I pray that you will love Him with your whole heart! We love you so much! We are so proud of you. Happy 4th Birthday!

Love,

Mommy and Daddy

Alarm

2010-07-28T10:33:00.004-05:00

This morning I set off our alarm. :)

It is so loud, but I like to play a game with myself.

First, you have to know, that I would have loved to have been in the FBI.

Undercover. So, when I set the alarm off, I like to see how calm I can be while I get it turned off. I guess somehow in my mind proving I would have been a great undercover agent.

You know the alarm is loud, really loud. It BLARES loudly in my ear. I just lock my eyes on that keypad and tune out the noise. I am good at tuning out noise. I live with three loud boys.

In order for me to blog about something, I wanted to think how that experience relates to life.

I came up with the world as the alarm and God as my keypad. If I focus on Him and tune out the noise of the world, I am focused and intent on my purpose. What if I took my eyes off of the keypad and tried to enter my code without looking? The alarm would get louder and the chance for me to become frazzled would occur. As long as I focus where I need to and keep my purpose clear, I can with GREAT accuracy disarm my alarm. If I take time to dilly dally and allow my ears to pierce and my mind to panic about what the code is or if I will remember my password when the security company calls I will inevitably get distracted, lose time, and begin punching in the wrong thing. I can't think about a security password for a phone call that hasn't happened yet. I just have to disarm immediately and handle the step I'm on before jumping to the next one.

God desires our gaze to be fixed on Him. He wants my soul, my very innermost parts to rest quietly in Him. He wants me in the midst of BLARING noise to remain stedfast and quiet. To be steady and purposeful-to handle only the step He has brought me to.

May our day be quiet-in the midst of the BLARING noise of the world.

9

2010-07-21T17:33:00.001-05:00

Happy 9th Anniversary Ben.

I love you!

The Supplies are Done

2010-07-20T09:06:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, something exciting happened.

We got our school supplies!!!!!!!!

We hit Walmart and The Pencil Box.

Everything on the list is in stock right now. Rollback prices. Good deal on the budget.

I was VERY excited with what we spent for two children at the Big School.

They are very excited.

It's beginning to smell like freshly sharpened pencils and BRAND new crayons.

I am getting so excited for school to start for me too. I love this part of the summer when we still have summer, but are excitedly anticipating a new year. New beginnings.

David got his school bag yesterday. We had to review the way to hold it. Not around your neck. It's a bag that goes over your shoulder. :)

We went to Fairhope, AL this weekend. We stayed at the Grand Hotel.

I got a massage. Shhhhhhh.

We went out on a catamaran in the bay.

Rode bikes.

Ate.

Swam.

And of course, shopped.

Pictures will follow.

Now, we're off to work in my room at school. :)

Enjoy your Tuesday.

By the way. I am doing flylady cleaning. I'll fill you in on how that's going later. Let's just say, I have flown, flapped, and flopped, but all in all, I like it. Check it out here.

To Clarify

2010-07-19T10:41:00.003-05:00

In my last post, you may or may not have seen that it was I that missed out when the gal came by my house. Thus, leaving me with lukewarm mop water and the feeling of lukewarm faith.

I know that God can work in any person's life with or without me. He is far bigger than I am! However, I was so saddened that I passed up the opportunity to get to know this girl a little bit better. YES, the lesson was completely for me. I had prayed that morning that God would direct my day and surely in His providential plan, the doorbell rang at the appointed time. It was I, that all too quickly shut the door. She didn't see Him in me that day, that is my regret.

2010-07-14T22:54:00.004-05:00

Dear Door To Door Book Sales Woman,

Yesterday I prayed that God would direct my day.

Then, I filled up my mop bucket.

I also got the laundry going and had a momentary lull of noise.

Then, you rang my doorbell.

It was not good timing. My hot, soapy water was waiting. My kids were actually quiet. And you were at my door.

I quickly told you I wasn't interested in what you had. I didn't explain to you gently I had not budgeted to buy your books or allow you the courtesy to do your job. I abruptly stopped you before you got to start. My soapy water was waiting. You were interrupting my day. The one I asked God to direct. True as it may be, I didn't need your books. But perhaps, you needed to see Jesus in our home yesterday. I don't say that to make me sound like I am what you needed, but my Redeemer is. We all need Him.

So, I am sorry. I am sorry that I missed an opportunity to be patient with you while you were visiting the country I love. I am sorry that you didn't see a difference in the way our family lives because of WHAT JESUS has done in our hearts.

I am thankful that your salvation (if you aren't saved) doesn't depend on my actions and what I did or didn't do. I am thankful that the Lord will work in your heart at the appointed time, but I do regret that I missed an opportunity.

My soapy water was luke warm by then anyway.

Pray for Hannah Grace

2010-07-14T22:46:00.002-05:00

Please continue to lift up Hannah Grace. They just had a princess party for her. She is truly a princess. You can follow more of their story here.

2010-07-13T08:35:00.003-05:00

Abbeville

Do you ever find it difficult to have peaceful faith? There are situations and seasons that fly into our lives uninvited and catch us off guard. The difficult times produce growth in my faith. However, the day to day circumstances can often be the biggest hang up for me. Not to say I soar victoriously through the "big" trials of life-oh no. I just mean that today, out of the blue I was slammed into a spiral of inner-conflict that did not remain so inner (I should say). Just ask my dear sweet husband. :)

I know that my peace comes from the Lord. He is my Rock, my Hiding Place, and the gentle whisper I hear in the morning breeze. He is peace to me. I sense it early in the morning on my back porch while I talk with Him or in my "special" room where it is quiet and cozy for even a few moments. I just wish I would savor the peacefulness and gentleness that hovers in those moments of quiet throughout the day. How quickly I can become unravelled. How fast my temper or fears will grip me. I wish I would call upon my Shepherd with more haste so as not to let the one whom is seeking my destruction like a hungry lion a moment of temporary victory.

It shined

2010-07-12T10:59:00.004-05:00

David and Luke were playing in the playroom. Then, Ben and I heard THE scream. If you are a parent, you know the sound of THE scream. It is a sound like no other. The volume, the emotion, the pitch-all bundled together to create THE scream. It pierces your ears and tears apart your heart. You hear it only occasionally, but you know THE scream means business. Real business. It marks disaster and reverberates in your mind. It echos through your ears and freezes time.

The two boys were playing dog. David was the dog and Luke was the master. Luke found a bungee cord with a plastic hook that looked just like a leash. Somehow, it snapped David in the face. Directly under his eye and it split open. Thus-THE scream was sounded and we met him on the steps. Luke was as calm as possible and took good care to tell us what happened. How thankful we were to find out that his eyeball was not damaged and that he only needed strips to piece the skin back together. I still can hear it-THE scream.

A call to pray

2010-07-02T09:38:00.004-05:00

Today has met me with difficult news.

Hannah Grace, whom we have prayed would be healed, found out that the tumor is back in her brain along with several spots.

Somehow in this dark place, God is whispering to them His presence. My heart is heavy and I would ask each of you to pray. Please.

Life Lately

2010-06-27T16:42:00.007-05:00

We have enjoyed heading here to pick blackberries lately. Ben's parents own a farm in Abbeville.

Recently, we had a Lemonade Stand in front of Bellamia. The boys worked so hard in spite of the heat to raise money for a church in Haiti.

We actually flagged cars down on Westgate. A humbling experience, if you've never tried it before. :)

There were a few "sample" cups for the workers. :)

Luke and Amanda were flagging here. She was a cheerleader in high school, a helpful skill for times such as this.

Benjamin and Joseph also had a lemonade stand in front of our house for Haiti.

They worked for a couple of hours. Diligently and selflessly.

With treats like frozen yogurt to help the day feel cooler.

This is a picture of brotherly love. They may have been wrestling immediately after the shot, but here is a glimpse of their hearts.

Luke and my dad are playing golf. Dad is an awesome golfer and is giving Luke lessons. Thanks Dad! We love you.

We'll Be Here Friday Night!

2010-06-21T20:56:00.001-05:00

I would love for you to join us!

Gaucho Farms

2010-06-17T09:02:00.004-05:00

Meet George and Suzanne-again. They are good friends of ours. You may remember our day at their farm with the lambs. I am proud to say they are participating in the Poplar Head Farmers Market. I hope you get a chance this weekend to go by and visit their award winning booth!

Here is information about what will be found this weekend at the Gaucho Farms booth!

Our Mix-n-Match Vegetable Baskets were a big hit, so we’ll be offering those again this week.
Choose whatever you’d like from our selection of pesticide and herbicide-free vegetables grown from organic seed. The idea is that you can have a better assortment of the items you like best. Pile as much as you can in the basket for only $3. Be sure to wedge in a bunch of fresh herbs, too.

As the garden peaks, we’ll have a good selection including:
Three varieties of squash,
Three varieties of snap beans,
Three varieties of peppers, including pesticide-free bell peppers!
Eggplant,
Cucumbers,
Okra!

Free Bush Scallop (Pattypan) Squash Recipes
These little round squash are a delicious summer squash. They are really great stuffed – similar to a stuffed pepper. Pick some up this week, along with a free recipe card with three great recipes.

Baked Goods – We’ll have samples!
Super-healthy Banana/Blueberry Nut Bread – no white flour in this one, and sweetened with honey and raw sugar
Pineapple Sage Poundcake – moist and satisfying with the refreshing flavor of pineapple
Dark-Chocolate Brownies

Jams and Jellies
Did you know that we pick and can the same day? That’s why our jams and jellies taste so fresh and flavorful.
We’re adding super fresh Very Blueberry Jam to our Just Peachy Jam, Strawberry Jams and Pepper Jelly.
Add a cellophane bag and a little raffia, and our jams and jellies make a great gift.

Meats and Poultry – Order Soon to Guarantee Availability
We’ve had great response to our 100% grass-fed beef and lamb and pastured poultry.
I hope some of you have had an opportunity to try it! Those who have ordered chickens can pick them up this Saturday or next Saturday at the market.

Many of you have mentioned that you plan to order bulk beef, lamb, or holiday turkeys.
I just want to let you know that we have 3 steers left for this season. We have 8 lambs left. The next opportunity for bulk beef won’t be until December or January. And the next opportunity for lamb will be next September. We ordered a total of 50 turkeys for Thanksgiving and 25 for Christmas. We expect to have some losses as turkey poults are challenging to get started.

If you are interested in bulk beef, lamb or turkey, we encourage you to order soon, as orders will be filled first-come, first-serve.

Heirloom Tomato Plants
It’s not too late to plant some heirloom tomato plants in a large container or in your garden. These old-variety tomatoes like Brandywine, Cherokee Purple and Abraham Lincoln won’t disappoint when it comes to flavor. This week buy 2 for $6 or 4 for $10.

We appreciate your support so much, and please feel free to call with any questions.
Best regards,
Suzanne Wright Sanchez
Gaucho Farms
Slocomb, AL
334-886-9736

A thought for today...

2010-06-15T09:34:00.003-05:00

andi.

"Thou hast made us for Thyself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they find their rest in Thee."

St. Augustine

Sundays and Adventures

2010-06-13T13:09:00.009-05:00

I know if you are a parent, you will understand when I say, " Often, training a child in church is exhausting." YOU know what I mean!!!! We are bringing David into big church and it is going okay. Not great, but okay. It isn't just my three year old that tries me, but my older ones too. But I know there is a promise; God's word does not return void. We are commanded to train up our children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. We love worship. We love involving our children in worship. THEY just don't always love it. Not yet. So until then, boys, mama and daddy are doing our best to love you and teach you to worship, not to be perfect, but to worship. It isn't about being perfect, 'cause I am certainly not that in the pew myself(I may not be wiggling, talking or drawing on my brother), but I have sin issues. I just hope for you to experience true worship. The reverence, the beauty, the freedom to be who you are and come before the Lord of all and worship.

We would love to take a family mini vacation. So, I am going to try to plan a weekend trip for July. Ben and I have tossed around some ideas for an adventure, but would love some ideas for fun get-aways that your families have done. I can't wait to hear some of the fun places you've found! :)

Ben's Birthday Night

2010-06-10T07:22:00.003-05:00

Not to brag, but my husband is HOT and an awesome ball player. I have a hard time typing the word softball in connection with Ben. I guess it's sort of funny that this guy doesn't play baseball, but softball. He played on our church league this spring. That was interesting to be honest. There were occasionally heated words from my end since we were trying to juggle two OTHER ball teams (Ben also helped coach one) and The Ball Field MONSTER (David). I'll be frank, I wasn't always the smiling happy wife sending her champion off for a great game of ball. The Three Musketeers, The Three Amigos, or The Three Stooges (whichever you call them) often wanted to go cheer on their Daddy, but instead of watching, they would do this:

Therefore, we limited our spectating. When I talked to the boys about running around when we were supposed to be watching the game Luke replied cooly,"You don't really mind. You must like it (running) because you take pictures of us." OOOOOOPs. My BAD!

Ben, we are proud of your ability to send the ball out of the ball field!

This little dumpling melts my heart. She wrinkles her little nose when she smiles at you and she ALWAYS seems to greet me with a smile. We were among her VERY FIRST babysitters.

This little gumdrop took a liking to David. He loved it!!!!! They rolled the ball back and forth. Precious!!!! She has just learned to walk.

There were a few dugout kisses.

A few dugout pep talks.

Followed by Molten Cake. It was a party in our mouths.

An email lesson for mom given by Ben who may be the only one with enough patience to teach her to email. No offense mom, we're just proud of you for trying. I don't think she has checked her email since it was set up and her "trial" email sent.

Happy Birthday Ben!

2010-06-09T08:02:00.002-05:00

I love sweet little dirty boy feet! These are David's little feet.

If you live in Dothan, AL you are familiar with these bad boys. If you would like to see more of them dead than alive at your house keep reading. I don't like to contract with a pest control company. I do, however, support pest control. A friend of mine, Katherine, gave me THE RECIPE. You don't call it the roach recipe, you put emphasis on THE. :)

1/8 cup sugar

8 ounces Boric Acid (the kind you get in the pharmacy - I've only gotten two 4 oz. bottles - @ $2.50 each)

1/2 cup flour

1/2 of a small onion

1/4 c. bacon grease

Mix up a dough and use a little more bacon grease if you need to. It will be a dry powdery kind of dough that you can make little pea size balls with and stick it everywhere a roach might go or be! Especially get outside - patios, closets, garage etc. and inside get windows, doorframes, under cabinets, fireplaces, etc. Just hide it around. No more roaches!

2010-06-07T06:12:00.001-05:00

The boys and I made a trip to the Public Library. The trips to the Library are a bit like releasing bulls in a china cabinet. Not quite that bad, but so close. HOWEVER, this trip was a great one. Benjamin and Luke are involved in summer reading for school. Benjamin is also reading for Bucks For Books. I found this book. A gem of a book if I do say so myself. A diamond in the rough (as in some of the other books). This book has been our delight since the day we brought it home. The boys and I cuddle up, partaking of a time long ago while we glean from it the lessons of cultivating little men. The book is about an orphan who goes to live at a school. It is a precious story of one less fortunate, full of moral tidbits. I am going to implement one of the ideas I read about. A notebook called a Conscience Book. A notebook with a page per week for each child. A page only that child may see, but one that has on it the behavior both good and bad for the child. One day a week(we may do it each evening), the teacher/boarding mother reviews it with the child. They will feel delight over the positive remarks and hopefully agree to focus on the areas of weakness.

Have you heard of Margaret Hillert? She writes books full of sight words. They are great for beginning readers. If you are in Dothan, these books can be found on the first shelf to your left in the Children's Library.

This is an autograph. One that my boys treasure. You may have not heard of Beth. In fact, you probably haven't. She isn't famous. Our church had the children collect autographs from the missionaries during our missions conference. I am humbled and grateful that Beth translates the Bible into other languages and helps create written print from only spoken languages. She has probably never been asked for an autograph before. Beth, thank you for being a hero to my boys, but moreover, a hero of the faith.

2010-06-05T15:23:00.008-05:00

This is the story of boyhood. It is everything magnificently simple. It is an understood code in the heart of each boy; it is the training ground for future men.

There is something about Benjamin and Danner playing and looking up at the flag that puts a lump in my throat. It is the idea of the future of our nation, the possibilities of Godly leadership, the reverence for what is good and right; all of this, incapsulated in little hearts. To me that is awe inspiring.

2010-06-04T14:15:00.003-05:00

2010-06-04T10:39:00.002-05:00

IMG_6155, originally uploaded by ben and andi.

2010-06-04T10:30:00.001-05:00

IMG_6156, originally uploaded by ben and andi.

2010-06-04T10:25:00.002-05:00

Thoughts about midlife

2010-06-01T13:37:00.004-05:00

I am not sure if I am at midlife or not, no one really is since it is a varied age for each person. However, I have a checklist if you are approaching midlife, in the midst of it, or perhaps have kept yourself there. :) enjoy.

1. Use sun damage creme. Spend a lot of money on it.

2. Use a good moisturizer. Spend a lot of money on it too.

3. Try the collagen repair lotion for cellulite. Spend a lot of money on this.

4. Buy a pilates dvd series. Only Windsor Pilates will do, it is a lot of money.

5. Quit wearing long shorts, buy cute short ones. Spend money on these too.

6. If you don't look good in the shorter shorts, don't worry. There are things you can do about that too, but you have to spend a lot of money.

7. Hang around younger people, they keep you young and they like to spend a lot of money because they haven't figured out that money doesn't grow on trees.

8. If you want my personal opinion, midlife just costs a lot of money.

I am not sure what just came over me, but for some reason, I feel the boldness to go ahead and hit publish post button, as I am finding this amusing to even myself.

Happy Birthday Ben!

2010-06-01T07:39:00.004-05:00

Happy Birthday Ben!!!!!! I love you so much and am happy to be your wife. :) I am listening to you sing happy birthday (again) to the daddy to yourself with the boys. You make me smile!

I hope you have a wonderful day!

HAPPPPPPPYYYYY BIRTHDAY~

Survival Swimming

2010-05-27T06:09:00.003-05:00

David was so sad he couldn't play ball this year! Being able to see under the helmet surely is a requirement! :)

Here David is doing Pilates in my socks! The heals are up to his calves!

I don't know if they call it survival swimming due to the fact that the mothers make it through or that the children learn to kick themselves to the side and pull themselves out of the pool.

I honestly, have been pleasantly surprised to my bundle of energy, fit throwing, full speed ahead 3 year old. David has done AWESOME this week. We are on day two. He is still sinking when told to get to the side, but hopefully, he will improve throughout the week. David had a great time today and so did I. We kept making each other laugh when we went under at the same time! He told me he was full in the middle of the lesson and sure enough that boy's belly was poking out...full of water!

I made corned beef for dinner. We love it! It is a super easy meal that is crock-pot prepared. I put it in this morning and added cabbage to the pot this afternoon. I like to make reuben sandwiches with the leftover meat.

Today we went downtown and went to the train depot and watched a crane load a freight car with scrap metal. A most exciting day! Tomorrow, we are planning a visit to our Art Museum. They have a GREAT new area for kids. I must admit, I love it too! Check out all they have to offer here. I'll post pictures of our time.

Linger over your coffee, go ahead and throw that load of stinky clothes in the dryer (the one we left in the washing machine on accident or on purpose), and enjoy your day!

Lots of things and Monkey Eggs

2010-05-25T08:48:00.005-05:00

This was taken by the Leon Loard Portrait studio. Thankfully this is NOT the portrait shot we chose, but it made me laugh!

For my own memory, or lack there of, I am recording some verbiage that has come forth in our home.

I bought Monkey Bread for breakfast. David apparently was a bit confused and called it Monkey Eggs. A gross mistake, but absolutely hilarious.

Benjamin has shown an interest in deodorant. He loves putting on Ben's before school. We are just glad he has an interest in NOT stinking. A bit premature, however, we'll take it when we can. I am going to switch us all over to aluminum free due to the health concerns that have continued to linger with this ingredient. Any tips on some for men, women, and boys under 8 would be appreciated. :) Okay not the eight year old, but I had to throw that in there!

Luke is now an official first grader. He no longer will be with me in the little bubble where I work. Although, we are thrilled with the big school he will attend, it pulls at my heartstrings to watch this little fellow go without me. I teach K5 and we snuck hugs on the playground, waved at each other during chapel, and of course were just there together! How I will miss you Luke, but I know you will do great next year! I do have to say Luke, you are a diligent little boy and you have worked hard this year. I am so proud of you!

This is Luke(2 1/2) and Benjamin (3 1/2) how quickly time has gone!

I can't believe Benjamin is about to be a second grader! We were looking at his baby pictures yesterday. Where has the time gone? He just finished coach pitch baseball. He really enjoyed it. He quickly realized it was more difficult than T-Ball, but it warmed my heart to see him warm up at bat and stop and ask Jesus to help him. He would just pause, look down, and I knew what he was doing. He has also begun to confess to us when he has been disrespectful to us. It often happens after bedtime. I am thankful for this step, as he is recognizing his own sin. He is sorrowful and honest. It is a blessing to reassure him that we love him no matter what, encourage him to talk to God about it, and to offer our acceptance and forgiveness. I am thankful how the Lord is working in his life and that this began WITHOUT Ben and I prompting him. I am hopeful that I will remember this down the road...the Lord works in his life as He sees fit.

A friend of mine, Christy, shared this with our Bible Study:

There was a family that was blessed with a very obedient and tender hearted child. She grew up to serve the Lord and honored her parents.

In the same family there was a son who became very rebellious in his teenage and young adult life and broke his parents heart. Of course they loved him unconditionally and trusted the Lord with this child. The mother asked her husband what they did wrong.

He replied, "Do you take credit for what the Lord did in our daughter's life?"

She said, "No of course not. That was the Lord."

He said, "In the same way, we cannot take the choices our son has made and take the blame or take the credit for the wise choices of our daughter. We have parented them in the same way. Not perfectly, but the Lord has a plan for each of them. And we will trust him with them each."

Isn't that a good reminder that as we serve the Lord and look to Him for guidance in our parenting, it ultimately isn't about us as parents. We are sinners. He is bigger than us and has a plan for each of our children.

Describe and Define

2010-04-21T15:06:00.003-05:00

I was listening to a great radio program today on the way to get Benjamin. I heard two contrasting words that I often interchange; Describe and Define. As women, we often place the two together don't we? What describes us-mother, wife, daughter, teacher, etc. is not what DEFINES us. Fabulous thought isn't it? Not mine, but this lady named Liz on 90.3 FM. Anyway, it sparked some thoughts and led me back to an all time favorite book Hinds Feet on High Places. If you haven't read it, I highly recommend you pick it up, check it out, our go borrow it IMMEDIATELY. It penetrates my soul. I love it. The book is an allegory and is amazing.

There is a chapter in the book called Encounter with Pride. I feel that it brings to home that which defines us, perhaps more so what defines us.

"From the very beginning the way up the mountains proved to be steeper than anything Much-Afraid had supposed herself capable of tackling, and it was not very long before she was forced to seek the help of her companions. Each time she shrinkingly took hold of the hand of either Sorrow or Suffering a pang went through her, but once their hands were grasped she found they had amazing strength, and seemed able to pull and even lift her upwards and over places which she would have considered utterly impossible to reach. Indeed, without their aid they would have been impossible, even for a strong and sure-footed person.

(Much-Afraid has an encounter here with Pride. The rest of the quote is after Pride attacks her.)

"Before Pride could realize what was happening, Much-Afraid uttered a desperate cry for help and was calling up the mountain. "Come to me, Shepherd! Come quickly! Make no tarrying, O my Lord."

There was a sound of loose rattling stones and of a prodigious leap, and the next moment the Shepherd was on the path beside them, his face terrible to look at, his Shepherd's staff raised high above his head. Only one blow fell, and then Pride dropped the hand he had been grasping so tightly and made off down the path and round the corner, slipping and stumbling on the stones as he went, and was out of sight in a moment.

"Much-Afraid," said the Shepherd, in a tone of gentle but firm rebuke, "why did you let Pride come up to you and take your hand? If you had been holding the had of your two helpers(Sorrow and Suffering) this could never have happened."

"For the first time, Much-Afraid of her own free will held out both hands to her two companions, and they grasped her strongly, but never before had their hold upon her been so full of pain, so bitter with sorrow."

"She learned in this way the first important lesson on her journey, upward, that if one stops to parley with Pride and listens to his poisonous suggestions and, above all, if he is allowed to lay his grasp upon any part of one, Sorrow becomes unspeakably more unbearable afterwards and anguish of heart has bitterness added to it. Moreover, for a while she limped more painfully than ever she had since leaving the Valley. Pride had trodden on her feet at the moment she called for help and left them more lame and sore than ever."

Do I allow my situations and encounters with Pride to describe me? Am I trying to write my own description and define myself? Or will I allow the Author of my life to write the story. Will I embrace the times of suffering and sorrow and allow them to define my character or will I resist their aide in my plight upwards and my struggle with fighting off Pride?

Today, I stand thankful that My Shepherd loves me for who I am in His beautiful Son Jesus. My description is not written by what I do, but my defining moment was when my life was wrapped in the cloth of His salvation. For that alone, is more than I ever deserve.

He is to me...

2010-04-02T07:32:00.005-05:00

Jesus is many things. Right now, I am thankful for His faithfulness. I have to be careful not to feel that as long as things are Zippity Do Da, that He is faithful then; but to really know His faithfulness and BELIEVE His faithfulness regardless of my earthly state. If Jesus never did more for me, but purchase my salvation on a cross, that would be far more than I ever deserved (took this quote from Alicia). It is easy to fall into an "I deserve" or "God is faithful, see everything turned out my way" mentality. Andi, is owed nothing by God, BUT He loves me. He does because His body was put in a grave and the grave could not hold Him. Jesus did for me what I could not do for myself; save me.

I would love for us to share with each other, whoever reads this, what Jesus is to you. Tell me because there are times when I wonder, "Did this all really happen?" Then, I go back and think of how He has worked in my heart!!! It builds my faith to see His faithfulness over the course of my life. Tell me, what is He to you?

Life is...

2010-03-26T14:12:00.002-05:00

You all may have seen the Life is good shirt. Luke was sporting his shirt and I asked him what it said.

"Life is not fair!" :)

Good ol' boy! He is too precious.

Rain Days

2010-03-25T16:52:00.002-05:00

Rainy days can be full of fun! The boys love playing on the Plasma Car. To be honest, I love to ride on it too!!!! Our garage also doubles as a race track. :) I just back my bus out and voila, a race track!

David is a bit strong-willed. He got a bike for Christmas and didn't want anything to do with it. Then, all of the sudden, he likes it. He is also really into riding his "bitricycle". :)

Our eggshell grass is growing GREAT! They are happy little eggs with happy little grass sprouts!

Such Fun!

2010-03-22T13:06:00.003-05:00

We enjoyed our time together over Spring Break! We loved getting to bop around Dothan and enjoy things like the Art Museum (which has a WONDERFUL children's gallery with hands-on-fun!!!), Landmark Park, and home. :)

I loved watching the boys have fun at Landmark! There is always so much to see and hear. I loved mostly, watching them be boys. It makes my heart happy to see the older two care for the youngest one. I love little hands in the dirt-feeling life! Throwing caution to the wind (safely)and hang upside down just for fun. I love how they take it all in!

Dear Boys,

I love each of you so much and can't wait to see your friendships grow in the years to come. We love laughing and making memories with you. You guys keep us on our toes, that is certain! Luke, we have been praying for David's salvation and you did a GREAT job explaining what it means to be a Christian. David isn't ready yet, but at the right time, the seed you have planted will be watered by Heaven, and it will grow. Just like we talked about. Daddy and I love how you and Benjamin are growing in your faith. We are thankful. David, we are thankful for how your understanding is increasing and we trust that at the Lord's timing, the Holy Spirit will touch your little soul too.

Do you see the picture of David's shadow? I want each of you to see your shadow and enjoy your boyhood. The small shadow will all too quickly get bigger. For now, embrace every little speck of dirt under your fingernails. Feel every bit of swinging upside down, the wind whipping across your face. LOVE life. Leave your handprints on lives, touch them. Because it is not merely your handprint you leave, but your Maker's. Make colorful music. Sing the song of life as loud as you can!

I love you more than you will ever know. You make my life song beautiful.

A Moment of Silence-Spring Break 2010

2010-03-17T15:34:00.005-05:00

We are growing grass via cracked, WASHED egg shells, thanks Darby for the idea to use eggshells for Easter decorations. This was our science activity for the day.

Breakfast this morning was HUGE GREEN pancakes!

Shhhhh.

They are all ASLEEP.

A few years ago, my mom gave me wise counsel to nurture my own boys friendship with each other. So, many a day it is just the three of them. They are fortunate to be involved in sports, school, and church where wonderful extended friendships flourish, however, the rule at our house is=Your brother IS your best friend. Period. As in you are sticking by each other through thick and thin. Today, has been a day devoted to them. Their friendship, brotherly fun.

Here it is in pictures.

Rethinking

2010-03-15T10:16:00.002-05:00

So, after I read Misty's comment, I realized something.

It doesn't have to be all or nothing.

I tend to be a black and white thinker.

I felt since I didn't have time to post pictures and do what I felt was a good job blogging, I just should not do it.

But I felt sad when the boys did something over the last few days that I thought should "make the blog."

THANK you for reminding me girls that I can be simplified WITHOUT giving up what I enjoy.

I am so a work in progress.

I will be sporadic in posting, but that is okay. I love that I can look back over the last couple years and read about our family. Little snippets from our life, our everyday comments, thoughts and pictures. I am in the midst of a really busy time. I want to make the most of the next few months with Luke before he goes to first grade all day and enjoy my time with David after school. Perhaps it has more to do with our stage of life. It is a FANTASTIC stage of playing ball with Benjamin and Luke(which is funny to watch me), trying to find ways to intertwine spiritual life lessons in the everyday moments, discipline in a meaningful way, as well as type a post with David on my back (actually happening at present).

Thanks.

Good Bye

2010-03-10T14:12:00.002-06:00

I am thinking based on my lack of posts lately, it might be time to hang it up.

I have no nappers in the nest anymore.

I have many baseballs to throw, dirt to sweep out of the house, bugs to catch, and spray N wash to use.

I have loved sharing our lives with you; the funny, precious moments! It is hard for me to think about doing something in a kinda way. Thus, I have the need to explain what I intend to do and how it is I came to this.

Right now, I don't have the energy (at least not when I need to wake up) to stay up late to post. My afternoons need to be spent doing sight words, cleaning out my car, and pretty much getting the laundry put away.

I have loved your comments and getting to meet new friends as well as catching up with old ones!

I have loved reading about many of your families.

I will miss blogging so much, but my little guys and my big one need my attention. I have learned this in the last few years- I don't want to do it all. :) Not to mention, I can't do it all. So, that which God has called me to, is what I want to do best. PLEASE don't go thinkin' that I am some great Christian woman with her ducks in a row.....I dare you to look in my car, or my house for that matter, not to mention my heart! Many of you gals have a ministry of encouraging other women through your blogs and you are able to use it in great ways!!!! Please don't feel that I am saying blogging is wrong. By no means. This is where I am now, for me, for my family.

Here are some closing quotes from a Bible study I am doing on Becoming a Woman of Simplicity:

"In seeking the Best we soon find that our enemy is our good things, not our bad. The things that keep us back from God's best are not sin and imperfection, but the things that are right and good and noble from a natural standpoint...very few of us debate with the sordid and evil and wrong, but we do debate with the good." Oswald Chambers

"O Lord, may I be directed what to do and what to leave undone." Elizabeth Fry

"Because I'm less concerned with what others think, my schedule is less crowded with things I once imagined would earn me recognition and fill my empty heart. I now enjoy the freedom to say yes to opportunities that produce gladness in my heart and a greater freedom to say no, even if it's a good thing I've been invited to do. This doesn't mean that I'm less busy. It simply means that there's time now for things I was always hoping before to squeeze into my schedule." Fil Anderson

Wow!

2010-03-02T17:02:00.005-06:00

Long time; no speak.

Bulleted remarks from a slack blogger:

*New York was wonderful! Wicked rocked my world!!! I would LOVE to be able to sing and dance on stage! That is why I teach Kindergarten! They think I can sing!!!!!

*I have a story that is written, not edited and probably at this phase of my life will hang over my head until summer.

*Today is Dr. Seuss' birthday, so cuddle your favorite kiddo and enjoy some fun Seuss books tonight!

*Dolly Madison is perhaps one of my newest interests. As of last night.

*I just finished 3 FABULOUSLY WONDERFUL books about the character of Mr. Darcy. Written after Pride and Prejudice, but keenly aware of the original time and characters with the development of new story lines! Highly recommend it!

*Happy Birthday to my favorite (and only) sister in law and brother in law!

*Laundry tip for winter: Put a load in when you wake up to wash, transfer to dryer at noon, fold by afternoon and put a load in washer, put in to dry after dinner and fold following morning! I have been keeping up with the laundry this way!!!!!! AT LEAST for now I should say! :)

ATTENTION Moms and Teachers:

GREAT website alert:

hubbardscupboard

Great resources for moms, teachers, and homeschooling parents~

Downloading pictures will/may come later!

Hello

2010-02-08T20:42:00.002-06:00

Hey strangers!!!! We have been swamped down here. It is a busy season for our family. I leave this week for New York with my mom. We celebrated her 60th birthday last week and we are continuing to do so as we make our mark in the Big City. ;)

I have been reading like a mad woman. I love to read, love it!!! I want to be in a book club and enjoy tea and crumpets while reflecting, maybe one day soon.?.

I have just finished Help. An unforgettable story of life in the South through the eyes of different women in the 60's. Creatively written from different perspectives; a story of piercing truth that all truly need to feel. Prepare to weep and smile.

Today, I am thankful for sunshine. I am thankful that I woke up and that today is simply, a normal day. I know that is bizarre, but when so many things can happen in your day that change so much, one becomes thankful for normality.

Now, I am off to eat some chocolate cheesecake. Cause life is normal and cheesecake should be a part of a normal day.

yep

2010-01-27T13:26:00.002-06:00

Follow up post.

1. Got house cleaned in two parts-downstairs late Saturday night.

Upstairs before church Sunday.

Should I call it a day

2010-01-23T21:48:00.003-06:00

I like to plan.

I like to think about what I am going to do, then, in good planning mode, do it.

So, today I planned to do a lot. Ben was gone and I felt a little excited about the potential "cleaning out" possibilities that lurked behind a good Saturday.

I planned for a great afternoon of clean out and clean up. HOWEVER, I am the type that gets ansi after awhile in one spot, which leads to another project. It drives Ben crazy. I tend to have LOTS of projects going at one time-all of which are undone. I am a bit compulsive, so they get done before the end of the day, my day, which may not be the same time frame as others. It suits me just fine, but tonight it is 9:52 and I AM SOOOO TIRED. I planned on cleaning out a space in the major living quarters of our home AND having it clean by tomorrow. NORMALLY I would push through and get it done. I got Most Dependable in high school-go figure.....Most Compulsive would have worked (LOL) so I AM HAVING A REALLY HARD TIME LETTING IT GO. The boys are in beds with no sheets. :) I dare say, I want to put my sheets on and read......

You'll have to wait and see what I do. I know you are biting your nails. That leads me to a whole 'nother post.

I would like to add that I scrubbed my tile (has white grout) on my hands and knees and I don't know if anyone in this life will ever appreciate that except my mother. I thought of it as good exercise.

We were walking into the older boys' basketball game this morning. My lovely three year old saw a darling twoish year old with beautiful blonde hair. We were still unloading when his eye caught sight of her and he said, "Oh, she's cute." SERIOUSLY I almost fell out. I had to ask Luke if he heard that too. We couldn't believe it! David is the one that asked to be "checked out of Mother's Day Out early." Oh brother, he is truly the younger brother. Except the older two can't stand pink and are so NOT into girls-who knows where David comes up with these things!

I feel rather shallow sharing my dilemmas after all that has happened this week in other people's lives throughout the world. I think many of us are struggling with our day to day and how it compares to the ones that have lost the dearest to them. Sweet Jesus, bind them up and carry them closer to You than they ever thought possible. The boys and I were talking tonight about how amazing human beings can be-people all over the world are working together to help the people in Haiti. How quickly we will help one another and just as quickly turn on each other.

Today

2010-01-21T17:15:00.004-06:00

Today my husband left at 4:30 a.m.

Today a fallen soldier was carefully placed on a plane.

Today my husband was on a plane with someone dear to the fallen soldier.

Today a mother and father met their fallen son.

Today someone has such grief I can not comprehend.

Today someone on the other side of the world is putting their life on the line for mine.

Today I can be thankful for the soldiers serving our country.

Today there was a moment of silence.

Tomorrow I....

2010-01-05T20:49:00.002-06:00

Tomorrow, I set the alarm.

Tomorrow, I exercise.

Tomorrow, I get out of pj's before noon. Who's kidding, before 3:00.

Tomorrow, I hustle my children through breakfast.

Tomorrow, I enjoy coffee and Bible study early in the morning.

Tomorrow, I send my boys off to learn what they need to equip them for life.

Tomorrow, I teach children who will impact our world.

Tomorrow, has the potential to make a great difference on lives that are young.

Tomorrow, I teach future mothers, fathers, doctors, lawyers, presidents, ambassadors, bankers, nurses, foresters, preachers, chefs, artists, teachers and writers.

Tomorrow, I invest in the lives of those that will impact our world.

Tomorrow, Sweet Jesus, show me in my home how to impact my children for you.

Tomorrow, may I teach in a way that will leave lasting, life long lessons on my students' hearts.

Tomorrow, may I draw out the gifts that you have given each child that I teach.

Tomorrow, holds much promise.

I throw in the towel

2010-01-04T21:05:00.004-06:00

Around these parts, there is a feud.

You might have some ideas conjuring up in your head.

It is a heated debate.

Like the one about the parents that don't find out what gender the baby is until the baby is born....I was just not one of those people. Many of you are and I am glad for you. I am also glad for me because I love to know what I am having before the arrival. I am just as happy as can be.

HOWEVER, that is NOT the debate.

The hot debate in our neck of the woods is Walmart vs the up and coming Publix. I am/have been a loyal Walgal now for some time. Have you heard of Dave Ramsey? We are big fans. I am on a grocery budget. Have been for years. I am also proud to say if there was a day when I went over budget, I went right on through the line and over to Customer Service and returned excess. I am a budget lover. I love to be nerdy like that. Nothing like a good spread sheet working out just right. Math is not my strong suit, so going over happened more than once, but could be taken care of and the bottom line was the right number-right on budget.

HOWEVER, there is a new store coming to town. You might know it: Publix. Darby has told me I will love it. Amanda has introduced me to some great sites for coupons. Gals, I think, I am in; I will be a Publix girl. I have looked, compared, and tonight was the straw that broke the camels back. I spent $140.00 on groceries with very little to show for it at Walmart.

I am getting down to business-it is by no means an easy job to feed all these youngens on a budget. Plus, I don't want to feed them garbage. That means it is so much more expensive. You know what your mama said, "It is harder {more costly} to do the right thing." I am going to start couponing. I am official. I am awaiting Publix with great anticipation. I see a new dawn rising.

Here are some sites you won't want to miss.

Check out this site for a great give away!!!!!

Other sites I have visited today:

iheartpublix.com

fiddledeedeemom.com

Now then. You have emailed and facebooked about the trip to New York.

Details:

Mom and I leave in February. Some hotels we are looking into include:

Waldorf

Sofitel

Thoughts on that?

Wicked is our play of choice this go round. We have been fortunate to see Les Mis, Phantom, and Cats some in NY and some off Broadway.

Some funny insight on me.

I thought Broadway was one magical, huge theater. Like what I remembered from Annie. When I went to New York about ten years ago, I was so disappointed that my legs barely fit in the space provided. I couldn't believe that there were a bunch of different theaters. I thoroughly enjoyed the show anyway.

Can't wait.

Getting a little stressed and sad about leaving the boys. I know, I know. I am guessing if you have left your little people you know how I feel.

I am bound

2010-01-03T19:01:00.004-06:00

mom with ben and david

My mom and I are New York bound in February!

I can't wait!!!!!

Have you been there? What did you do? What plays did you see? Of course, where did you eat? Do tell shopping secrets too!

Confessions

2009-12-31T10:59:00.003-06:00

Confessions of a busy blogger:

1. I told you I was going to give you a list of darling Christmas books. I might. In May. :)

2. I am taking down Christmas. Need I say more?

3. It is New Years Eve. We are staying home. I am excited.

4. The boys have all watched T.V. Too much. Way too much.

5. We just flew in yesterday from a wonderful trip to Missouri to visit my precious Daddy George (My grandfather). We got to see my Aunt, Uncle, and cousins along with their adorable peeps. We had a blast. However, I am mad at the airlines for charging $20 per bag. They made a lot of extra money on us this week. Your sentiments?

6. I am writing this post to escape the craziness of Christmas take-down, 3 boys, and a few suitcases that need to be unpacked.

7. I am incredibly thankful for the blessings we have food and shelter, loving family, and three healthy, precious sons along with the best husband in the whole world.

8. Happy New Year. My resolution: EXERCISE.

Um. I am a little busy.

2009-12-17T19:49:00.004-06:00

We're on the countdown at our house.

How about you????

Today, I had my classes party and Luke's Christmas party, AND David's Christmas party.

Tomorrow, I am coordinating Benjamin's Christmas party and leaving to go out of town.

Tonight I baked cakes for Benjamin's class to decorate during their party-it is a Happy Birthday Jesus Party(stole the idea from someone else). 'Cause that IS what we are celebrating. Not what we buy, or how we wrap it, or what we make, or how we decorate. It is not. Will not. Nor ever be. We celebrate because our Savior was born. I am a bit burned out with ALLLLLLLLL of this extra that I am DOING for the approval of others!!!! You may be perfect and not struggle with that(I am being sarcastic). But my PRIDE keeps pushing me.

Let's make a pack. You and me.

Let's promise to not let our pride of presenting what we "do" at Christmas get in our way of just loving those we are around.

If your family has noticed you are stressed, or you seem short- May I offer you what I am learning(note-NOT learned, in the process of)....you are doing too much and it isn't enjoyable for anyone. If I step on your toes, I am sorry, but from one sinner to the next, let's lay our pride down.

You in?

Feeling the need for disclaimer~~~~~I LOVE Christmas!!!! I love the festivities and I love doing special things for people.

Feeling the need for additional disclaimer~~~~~I think my pride encouraged the first disclaimer. :)

Few words

2009-12-11T17:43:00.001-06:00

Two words.

It's FRIDAY!!!!!!

That sums it up-oh glorious day!

I am coming back soon with wonderful books for Christmas~

So Snappy

2009-12-08T17:48:00.004-06:00

Last year's Christmas card attempt #113.

If you are like me you will go to the ends of the world trying to get "THE" Christmas card picture. In my book, "THE" Christmas card picture does not have an unattainable criteria, unless you are trying to photograph 3 toddlers ages 6 and below. So, for you newer mamas that are wondering IF you can ever get your children to look at the camera, I will offer you Andi's photography 101.

1. Toddlers don't like cameras-some toddler divas might, but most despise getting their picture taken. HOWEVER, some far and few between toddlers DO indeed love the instant satisfaction of seeing the photo that they{you} worked so hard to get! SO, show them the picture. They probably won't like one of themselves like the one above.

2. Portable DVD players do in fact WORK! Have your husband hold it above your head with a favorite video playing, get a sweet, happy, zoned out photo, or when the movie gets funny; capture a full fledged belly laugh.

3. Be persistent. Don't stop ever. Even under fire. Snap woman, snap. Like your life depends on it. Start in July when vacationing at the beach-that MIGHT BE THE CARD. Keep on shooting in the fall-THAT MIGHT BE THE ONE. Don't panic, you CAN ALWAYS try for a few hours for one in their Christmas p.j.'s. Snap, I say, Snap.....................

I can not be held responsible for any exaggerating in this post. Christmas Card photo attempts have a tendency to wipe out any and all clear thinking- as if that even occurs in December.

How to Read

2009-12-07T21:16:00.007-06:00

Today, I was working with Luke on the computer.

If you have a toddler or preschooler, may I suggest a great website it is called Starfall. I teach kindergarten as many of you know. I have taught K-5, first, and second. Today, however, Luke "schooled" me about the proper way to read. He informed me, " {he} knew everything about reading and should get to play games on the computer and not Starfall." That was BEFORE he got to design himself and make me with tan eyes and funny hair on Starfall. He had a blast and had fun reading!!! As I mentioned Luke helped me out with reading techniques. They are quoted by Luke below:

1. Read slowly.

2. Take your time.

3. Don't read grumpy.

Now it just doesn't get any cuter. Grumpy reading! I love it!

You can click on the website link to visit starfall.org. Enjoy!

Boys

2009-12-06T14:56:00.004-06:00

photo courtsey of mr. fretts

Got Pink?

2009-12-03T16:09:00.006-06:00

Mary Sue, This one is for you gal!

For those of you that don't know, my mother in law, Mary Sue, is a Breast Cancer Victor (I like that better than survivor, cause she kicked it in the you know what)!!!!! She was the victor, by God's divine plan.

This video rocks! The music is so fun, but what is amazing is the love that is behind it- the unity to find a cure. Turn it up loud-your kids will love jamming to it. I did!

Click here to rock on!!!!!!!!

We all know someone who is battling breast cancer, or you are about to.

Got pink?

Today

2009-12-02T14:20:00.005-06:00

David turned 3 in September

Luke's Thanksgiving Party.

Benjamin turned 7 in November.

The tree that fell today...

Yippee. Got my Christmas cards ordered. Getting them tomorrow. Happy me.

A tree fell and missed our house today. Much excitement. My wonderful, strong, husband, (a.k.a. John Henry) swung his ax for hours today to take care of it. Have you seen his biceps? They are huge and I am thankful.

2009-12-01T13:45:00.004-06:00

treats by SweetTooth Creations party favors

So I saw this great idea. I, however, can't wait to whip up something yummy to share with our friends....for a fraction of the cost!

Want to know what it is?

Make some rice crispy treats. Cut into rectangles and insert a popsicle or sucker stick.

Dip in melted chocolate-like baker's chocolate and cover the WHOLE thing.

Let dry. Then, pipe an icing snowman, Christmas tree, or star, and embellish with sugar sprinkles or sprinkles...

Happy bake and take!

A fun twist-add some peanut butter and a little corn syrup to your rice crispy treats and then cover with melted chocolate and decorate..........Can I say YUM!?!

Thankful

2009-11-25T09:01:00.004-06:00

You might think I am about to do a traditional thankful post. That is true in part, but just wait until you read what I am thankful for and feel free to smile at the innocence of children.

Last week the boys and I were snuggled up on the couch watching a Christmas movie on ABC. A commercial came on and I got a little uncomfortable as the cell phone man was surrounded by Sierra and her crew as they appeared. Not only were they suggestively dressed in all leather, they were dancing-REALLY dancing in a circle around the guy.

Luke said in a disappointed voice, "Oh, well I thought it was going to be J.I. Joe."

The Fleece and His understanding

2009-11-16T16:09:00.006-06:00

This morning, I read the story of Gideon.

Perhaps you are familiar with it. Perhaps you have heard of him. Or perhaps like me, you knew something about him but maybe the Lord has something sweet for you to take away from it as He was so gracious to allow me to do this morning.

May I share with you? I found this in Judges 6:11-40.

"Then the angel of the Lord came and sat under the oak that was in Ophrah, which belonged to Joash the Abiezrite as his son Gideon was beating out wheat in the wine press in order to save it from the Midianites. The angel of the Lord appeared to him and said to him, "The Lord is with you, O valiant warrior." Then Gideon said to him, "O my lord, if the Lord is with us, why then has all this happened to us? And where are all His miracles which our fathers told us about, saying, 'Did not the Lord bring us up from Egypt?' But now the Lord has abandoned us and given us into the hand of Midian." The Lord looked at him and said,"Go in this your strength and deliver Israel from the hand of Midian. Have I not sent you?" He said to Him, "O Lord, how shall I deliver Israel? Behold, my family is the least in Manasseh, and I am the youngest in my father's house."

But the Lord said to him, "Surely I will be with you, and you shall defeat Midian as one man."

So Gideon said to Him, "If now I have found favor in Your sight, then show me a sign that it is You who speak with me."

"Please do not depart from here, until I come back to You, and bring out my offering and lay it before You." And He said, "I will remain until you return."

The passage goes on:

"When Gideon saw that he was the angel of the

Lord, he said, "Alas, O Lord God! For now I have seen the angel of the Lord face to face."

The Lord said to him, "Peace to you, do not fear; you shall not die."

In verses 36-40 of chapter 6 we read of the sign of the fleece.

I had so many thoughts as I read these verses that I am afraid of even trying to write them as they will probably come out a little chaotic. But, I'll give it a shot.

First of all, you see Gideon going about the next thing in his day to day life. We are brought into his day as he is beating the wheat. I can't imagine that to be too exciting. Probably in haste as the Midianites would have targeted him if they had found him. That is probably why he was threshing in a wine press and not on the hill-for cover.

So, his life was interrupted with a visit from an angel of God. We're not sure which angel. But, in any case an angel came and sat under the tree AND called him valiant warrior. Can you imagine? As you are doing your daily task; looking up and seeing an angel (one that calls you valiant warrior) as you are ducking around threshing wheat in inconspicuous places. Then, being commanded to go and defeat your enemy. Sweet Gideon, often gets blasted in present day for his lack of faith, but I have to say, I can really relate to his unbelief at the situation. Isn't it precious that God didn't blast Gideon for his lack of faith by asking for a sign, but instead graciously worked not once, but twice to reassure Gideon? I am thankful that Jesus understands me for the sinful way that I am and loves me enough that when I question Him, He is gentle with me, but doesn't allow my questions to come in the way of His working. He loves me enough to allow times in my life that seem impossible or bleak to teach me what it means to sing at midnight. That doesn't mean I am happy with the trial, but it means learning to REJOICE in my salvation ALONE even if there was NOTHING else to rejoice in. He has blessed me so abundantly, but sometimes life isn't all happy days. There are the days when we feel like Gideon and we are so small, but then God comes along and says, "Valiant Warrior." And O how patient and tender He is-powerful and mighty yes, but He spoke to me in this with His great tenderness. Let me know how this passage speaks to you.

A little Sympathy

2009-11-13T06:44:00.002-06:00

I have a HORRIBLE sinus infection.

I can't open my jaws.

I HAVE to get to my kindergarten class today because we're talking about Indians. The buffalo came up in our conversation and they really don't have a clue as to what that is since my description really didn't do this massive creature justice, I must take them a picture.

Perhaps I have lock jaw.

Did I mention I hurt? Not all of me. Just draw a line down the middle of me and it is the left side of my head. It is like the epidural that didn't block on both sides. The Tylonel cold and sinus is working on the right side.

I am on a Z pack.

I think I need to be knocked out.

I remember a few posts ago I said, but life is good. It is. Even though I hurt-REALLY bad. I am thankful. Some people hurt all of the time. I am thankful for medicine and a comfy bed and sweet little boys who bring me Diet Pepsi and a cup of ice. Yesterday, Benjamin came into my room and prayed for me. Thankful for my parents who brought our family Chic Fil A and for in laws that helped out this week with the boys!

All that being said, I am still in pain, but I have much to be thankful for.

Talking

2009-11-11T16:08:00.003-06:00

So, an area that the Lord has really been working on in my life is the area of prayer; I shared that with you before. I have always wanted to pray regularly. However, I think I have really been missing out on what prayer CAN be-not something to do, but a relationship.

I know this sounds silly, but I wanted to have things just "right" to pray. You know, boys asleep, coffee in hand, house picked up, life as it should be. OR the opposite way my prayer life looked was in the midst of a trial, offering those whispers of help and that would be all I could get out, or just crying out at God. But, I am learning to view prayer as conversation-dialogue. That means there are sentences from me and then times when I am quiet (those that know me in real life might start to laugh at that one). I haven't taken time to talk with Him this week, not really. I have talked at Him. He knows I have toddlers and what my life looks like and He isn't angry that I haven't talked WITH Him more. Oh no. Not Jesus. He is waiting and inviting me to come and practice the blessing of visiting with Him. No agenda. Sharing with Him my heart, my struggles, my sin-can you believe He wants to help me with that? What a precious Friend...and when all I can get out is the whisper, "help," He is all over it interceding where I can't go, cause I am not Him, but man am I thankful for this blessing I like to call conversational prayer. It is powerful folks...

Hey Friends!

2009-11-09T18:09:00.003-06:00

I hope you are all doing well. I have missed you!

I am busy baking some yummy desserts for tomorrow night's ladies coffee and dessert extravaganza, so I will be brief.

Life is full, but how thankful I am for a full life. Can you believe it is almost Thanksgiving!!!???

That leads us to Christmas! You won't believe it, but I actually got a pain free photo this year! Whatever will I do with all of my hours saved?????? Work on our card. I have some ideas dancing in my head. Don't get too excited, I am not crafty.

My house is a wreck. I am serious, but I am working on that tonight after my tater tots hit the hay and the house is quiet and there aren't messes being made after one cleans up.

Like I said life is full, but so good.

Last night, David heard me say I was tired and achy. NO I don't have the flu. However, he started whimpering at dinner that he was icky. He said he was so full and icky. :) lol

We have the boys doing chores in the morning. I am a fan! That provides something productive to do besides hitting your brothers or making MORE mess and it really helps me out. So, here is the low down. One makes the beds. They are not perfect, but that isn't the point. They are made. The other cleans the playroom. You'll note I have jobs for two. David is still asleep. I just switch the chore each day so they both get a turn doing each. They can earn a little Wii time after homework in the afternoon if they complete their job by the time the timer goes off. You might hear me singing the Hallelujah Chorus down the block. The biggest blessing is that you hopefully won't hear me YELLING at the children down the block. Note I said "hopefully."

Luke has a broken collar bone.

They all need haircuts and it is going to rain this week.

Sounds like a messy week to me, but life is good.

The Struggle

2009-10-20T20:19:00.004-05:00

As I return to the real world, my heart is torn.

I am in the midst of a ragging war within my being-to be still versus to be in control.

The beach was one of the most restful times I think we have ever had with our boys.

A blessing that I do not want to take for granted.

However, the peace that was surrounding our unhurried pace does not seem to exist in day to day life.

At least not completely, but I think the peace can transcend the shores to our home.

I desire that peace to surround us. Always-even when we were supposed to be out the door five minutes ago...

I have a hunch that it has a lot to do with talking to Jesus all throughout the day. As in a conversation. To be raw with Him-blatantly honest. And mainly, yielded to the Potter. I am afraid that I am the clay that has to be spun around and around on that cool little machine because I keep wanting to jump off and make myself into a tray or something. Ahhhh, He has our good and His glory at heart.

He IS working for my good. I certainly don't deserve it. I stink at being a good little piece of clay. But, He is a skilled potter, the best and I am hopeful that my time on the spinning machine will produce something that makes my potter smile.

Thoughts from the shore

2009-10-13T16:23:00.004-05:00

We are enjoying a delightful family vacation.

We needed a time of togetherness. We desperately needed a time devoted to family and fun. We are getting just that.

While we've been here, I have had some thoughts. Not many since it is vacation, but a few that I would like to share with you.

1. When I gaze at the horizon from the shore, I feel like I somehow meet God's eyes.

2. How in the world does all of this water, sand, people, etc. stay on a sphere? I know the answer is gravity, but allow your mind to wander away from the laws of Newton and all of those other really smart folks and seriously ponder it. No wonder our skin gets stretched out.

3. Boys need their daddy. Period. It makes them into men. I am extremely thankful for the husband Ben is to me and the daddy he is to our boys.

4. Mommas are good at herding. I have found that I have consulted Ben numerous times during this trip as to what normal is in a pack of boys. My new official title for myself is Boy Herder-you don't ask them to "come here," when you have multiple boys, you herd. There is simply no other way to put it.

5. The ocean forces me to think about my book. It helps me sort out ideas and the rhythm allows for lines to come.

6. I have found that pivotal surrenderings take place for me while the smallness of myself is mesmerized by the vastness of the sea.

7. I am reminded by God to fear not.

8. It is a gift from God to rest, not to hurry, and to just be...I hope that even if you are not at the ocean right now, you will this day, this minute allow yourself to rest, to just be and to fear not. We are somehow suspended on this little sphere orbiting in space with water that doesn't splash off. Trust me, He has it all under control, whatever it is.

Well, I am Here, Maybe

2009-10-05T21:29:00.004-05:00

Howdy. I know you have been waiting on pins and needles anticipating my next appearance.

SO KIDDING!!! :)

Well, so I don't feel terrible, my sweet baby David had a third birthday. I will do an entire post for him, but not tonight.

In fact, right now I am supposed to be sitting in the family room listening to the rain while I grade papers. However, I just couldn't bear the thought of NOT posting AGAIN! So for the sake of knowing I have documented something of the crazy wonderful life we lead-we are simply busy. Busy with wonderful things: field trips, projects for school, sight words, Star Wars(pretending), spelling tests, fall decorating, and just doing. However, I am trying to let go of that which does not HAVE to be done in order to enjoy the more mundane events of my day. When there is joy in the little things, I find there to be joy in one's life. When the mundane are bothersome, due to overload, one must step back and dust off the shelf of her life and do a bit of "fall cleaning."

I miss you all and the events of your day to day. You know what I mean, busy and trying to simplify. Check out the new Bible Study called, Becoming A Woman of Simplicity. It is a Cynthia Heald book and I bet you'll enjoy it too!

what if...

2009-09-16T15:27:00.005-05:00

What if I prayed because I wanted to talk with Jesus?

Not just at Him with my to do list.

What if I prayed as if my very existence depended on it?

Instead of thinking I am strong enough to figure things out.

What if I prayed like I was at Atlanta Bread talking to my friend?

Not just a stuffy forced journal entry.

What if I prayed and was quiet enough to hear the whisper?

Not just moving on to the next thing.

What if I prayed realizing I am a beloved child of the King?

Not an orphan.

What if I prayed and for a moment could pause and sense the angels singing Glory to God in the Highest?

Instead of thinking about my wish list for God.

What if I prayed in sweet communion with the Living Creator of the Universe, who is working for my good; the good being to make me more like Jesus and I really talked to Him?

What if I really made time to pray, to really talk with Him and slow down enough to enjoy my visit with Him?

What if my prayers became more like a visit with Him?

What if my prayers affected my life because I was changed and refreshed by my time with Him?

May it be so.

time keeps on ticking...

2009-09-06T15:41:00.002-05:00

Busy! Happily, busy.

The house has to wait.

The dust gets thicker.

The laundry is clean, but not put away.

Time keeps on ticking.

I want to be wise.

The house won't last.

The kids are getting bigger.

The time is getting shorter.

Time keeps on ticking.

The floors have drool.

The windows have fingerprints.

The floor has crumbs.

It is a house lived in.

The little people are getting bigger.

The time is getting shorter.

Time keeps on ticking.

The toys are left out.

The legos are hotels.

The books are left open.

The sounds are happy.

Time is ticking.

The house doesn't live.

The people within the walls do.

Invest in them wisely.

All too soon,

It will be quiet.

Don't Hold The Phone

2009-08-31T20:04:00.003-05:00

I wanted to share briefly how God is working in my life. Recently, He has really ministered to me through a couple of people that have said, "I am thinking about you." Last week, I got a text on my way to school that was from a dear friend, Susie, who wanted me to know she was praying for me because she was thinking of me. Notice the phrasing: she prayed for me because she thought of me. My mom called Friday and said, "What can I do for you today? I want to help you."

Another was a phone call today from my friend Katherine. Her kind voice was music to my ears: "Hey I was thinking of you...." No one specifically had anything to call about or reason other than they were thinking of me. Their thoughts were controlled by our Heavenly Father. Isn't He so gracious to encourage us through His Spirit prompting others to speak words of love? The words I don't think matter as much as the connection to the "doing." I didn't just cross their minds briefly, they acted on their thought intentionally.

Isn't that what we are called to do as Christians? To love one another? These precious friends took the time to personally contact me. We live in such a hurried society. On to the next thing, it easily becomes a game of how much we can actually fit into the rectangle on our daily planner and even BETTER is to CHECK IT ALL!!!!!

Do we make time to care, to love? I am so thankful for these friends who, by their actions, have reminded me to slow down and ask the Lord to show me who He wants me to speak to-intentionally, without hurrying, without an agenda, to just say, "Hey, I was thinking about you."

We Began

2009-08-19T17:04:00.005-05:00

I am the M and my sweet friend/aide is G. :)

My two guys are in full swing at school.

Benjamin has declared he needs a holiday.

Luke got to bring home the Morning Message today. He was so proud of it, he wanted to hang it on the wall. It will have a place of honor.

So, there you have it.

They are all smiles. We enjoyed special dinners of their choice before their first night of school. They get to pick the menu. :) Benjamin picked spaghetti and meatballs and Luke picked homemade mac-n-cheese. Last night, a dear friend invited us to their home for dinner so I wouldn't have to cook. HOW SWEET IS THAT???? Thanks Suzanne!!!!

After orientations, I take them individually for dinner or lunch. That my friends, is priceless time. Lots of encouraging can happen: for the mommy and the child. :)

I am busy getting to know a new group of precious students. We had orientation Monday night and what a sweet, sweet group of loving parents! What a joy it is to partner with parents and pray together at an orientation for their children and for our year together.

It was really hard for me to realize Benjamin was at school all day.

I LOVE 2:30 when we load up to go get our Buddy! It is such a fun time for the boys to come home and be together. The first day, I cried because this is the next step, but mostly because I know I am entrusting him to others for longer than I get to have him. I love school, obviously; I am a teacher. However, it was really hard to know we would never go backwards to the "at home" days with naps, walks, and playing ball in the mornings. I know we have the summer, but this is a new chapter for our family. I am really trying to be intentional in the afternoons with Luke knowing next year, he'll fly off to the Big School.

It was a GREAT Day!

2009-08-12T16:54:00.002-05:00

First grade rocks.

My first grader is one happy camper.

He didn't even mention coming home at lunch.

I am glad to say....

He enjoyed his day tremendously!

Carline was a breeze. I just hopped in line and followed the person in front of me. Whew!

I miss checking in with you folks! I am so busy getting our family geared up for school and getting my classroom ready that I haven't been able to read your blogs lately!

I will be back with pictures hopefully some time this weekend.

Getting Ready!

2009-08-11T13:46:00.002-05:00

Hey folks! Remember me?

I have been getting my kiddos ready for school.

Truly a delight and honor. We LOVE our schools! One of my boys is a bit nervous. Actually, really nervous about spending a full day at school. He wants to come home and eat lunch with me. I personally like the idea, but it is time.

My room is ready with new names, my students from last year are in their new rooms. That pulls on my heartstrings too! Like I said to another mom, "Once one of my students, always one of my students."

I am hopeful that each one of you embraces this season of new beginnings. May the force be with you as you conquer the phenomenon known as car line.

A Goal and A Dream

2009-08-05T14:59:00.013-05:00

photo complement of flickr

I have a goal. I have desired to do this for years. For about fifteen years.

The hard part is actually doing it. It is daunting. Much bigger than myself. I have the desire and the drive to do it. To climb this mountain. I am just sizing it up right now. I have sat under experts and continually stand amazed at their gift. I have tried different times, to no avail. I feel like the time is right. Now. How does one begin a larger than life project? Well, at the beginning. Lots of reading and listening. Mainly dreaming. Oh the dreams are big!

Isn't that so fun? I think as a wife and mom, I benefit my family by stretching myself. Stretching would be an understatement at this point. I am probably more like Bambi on ice. I believe God has given me this desire to push myself out of my comfort zone and go for it. I might not achieve any Caldecott honors or awards, but I am going to do my best. I am going to climb this Mount, Lord willing. Words last. So, to my boys, I will leave a legacy to them from me.

I guess you could say, fingerprints on the paper.

I want to weave words. To make stories that capture the minds of the children and take them to the places they dream of. Mainly, I want my children to know the power of words. I want them to know their thoughts and ideas are important. I want them to know the beautiful art that it is. The music that can flow from the line of a written message. To me, a story is a song in and of itself.

It is a little scary to actually write these words. It seems I am now acknowledging my dream of writing and failure is quite likely. So, perhaps the process is more profitable than the end result. I imagine I will learn more about myself through this experience. I am learning persistence, I am learning the importance of sizing a mountain before the climb and planning, but the dream is what I hold to when the mountain top has hazy clouds around the top and is out of sight. The dream is big. I can just close my eyes, dream, and sing a song through words on paper knowing there is a mountain top even though I can't see it. Yet.

Singing At Midnight

2009-07-28T07:57:00.008-05:00

Photo: Courtesy Library of Congress

Midnight sun in Advent Bay, Spitzbergen, Norway

This week I have been discouraged. I was spending time with the Lord this morning and here is what He showed me:

"But about midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns of praise to God, and the prisoners were listening to them; and suddenly there came a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison house were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone's chains were unfastened."

Acts 16:25-26

You may be familiar with this story from Acts. Paul had just called out a demon from the slave-girl whose masters were profiting from her fortune telling. The men, whose profits were gone as a result, seized Paul and Silas. Without a public trial, they were beaten, imprisoned, and placed in stocks. There was nothing fair or right about what happened. Paul and Silas were doing the work of the Lord. They were pursuing righteousness. Following the course set for them, they were arrested and thrown in prison after being beaten. I rather imagine, they endured it quietly, without hampering their witness. However, at the end of the chapter, in verse 37, the truth was known. They knew where their strength came from; Paul had just utilized the power of the Living God when he called out the demon from the slave girl.

When they were bound in prison, surely their share of doubts came. God, why don't you get us out of this? Why are we in here Lord? Don't you care? You are the One that told us to come to this city and now we're in prison. Do something. Those would be my questions. But we see something distinctively different in this story of Paul and Silas. We see them praise at midnight. They were keenly aware that while they were chained, they were surrounded by the Living One and True God. They were not forgotten, they were not bound because of past sins (remember Paul's past), they were not bound because of something they did wrong. In fact my friend, they were bound to glorify God. The Lord God accompanied them to this place of imprisonment. He led them there. He called them to this place for this very hour of praise. For with the stocks came praise at midnight. The Lord shook the foundations of the jail and their chains were unfastened, but none left. As a result, the jailer was saved along with his household. Glory to God.

Whatever has your feet in stocks, wherever you are imprisoned, praise him. Praise Him, PRAISE HIM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Praise him at midnight when the hour looks its darkest. Praise him when you don't see His hand working. Praise Him when the circumstances look like the exact opposite of what you are praying for. Praise Him because He is the One that shakes the earth...Praise Him when the hour looks darkest. You are surrounded by a heavenly host resounding the Sweet Name of Jesus. Join in the singing and my friend, at midnight we'll be singing together.

My Life is Richer

2009-07-25T10:16:00.004-05:00

One of Tonja's precious sons giving her a rose on her last performance night. Pretend it is a clear picture. Although, blurry is how we all saw it there because we were crying. :)

Meet my friend, Tonja.

If you know Tonja, you are smiling. If you don't, you will smile by the end of this post because she has that affect on people.

She has just lost her cheerleader, her friend, her mama. Her heart is heavy, sad, and weary. Now, Tonja is one strong lady. She can look adversity square in the eyes, smile at it while remembering that she is the Tonjanator(what Ben and I call her) and kindly ask it to move over. Her sweet faith is strong and trusting in her Savior; that is why adversity doesn't scare the T-jator. She knows where her strength comes from. It doesn't mean there isn't hurt or pain, but there is assurance.

She and I have a wonderful time working together! In fact, when it was time for me to go back to work and the boys were having a hard time with it, Tonja explained that we are all part of a family and that each person in the family does what they can to help the other people in the family. She just knows how to explain the things in life that aren't easy. I saw on her blog, a friend said they accidently wound up being friends and her life was richer because of it.

So, my dear Tonja, it is through tears that I say to you that my life is richer for knowing you. The Lord is working for your good. Your smile warms my heart and your shoes make me dance. The Lord smiles over you and loves you! Your life adds music to those you are around! Thank you for making me sing and not look to see who is watching.

To My Most Uncommon Hero,

2009-07-21T09:05:00.006-05:00

*Please click on the song Uncommon on the playlist in the box to the right(it should begin automatically) and make sure your volume is on, hopefully you'll be encouraged as well by the words.*

Dear Ben,

Today we celebrate our eighth anniversary. You are so many things to me. I listened to the song yesterday Uncommon and you exhort me to strive for this. More importantly, you are uncommon. Your life is different. Your life speaks volumes. You have so much character. You are pursuing things in life that count. That last. For eternity. You take the road less traveled. I am along for the ride. You remind me to trust, to let go, and to feel the very presence of God. What a sweet breeze to my soul you are.

I know I often resist letting you into my heart. That is such a scary place for me. I am thankful that as I have opened up, you hold my heart and soul gently. I know I often retreat back and put up walls. I guess that is what love is. Un-guarding. Oddly, we spend so much of our life learning to not trust, to not let go and then I met you. Trustworthy, faithful, loving, forgiving, and most of all, safe. I think a gentle breeze is the best way to describe your affect on my soul.

I know you are not perfect, but I can honestly say you are amazing. I am more proud of you today than ever. My love has truly grown and grown. You are leaving a legacy. One our boys will be proud and honored to say is Uncommon.

Today, I celebrate our love, our commitment, our covenant. I am so thankful for you; you have my heart. All of it. For as long as we live.

The Blame Game

2009-07-15T09:25:00.003-05:00

Today, David was in the living room scolding me for playing the piano. He can't stand it. He gets his little finger and flings it around in the air while commanding a halt of the music. I told him I liked to play the piano and that he needed to relax. To this, he flung himself into the wall and proceeded to turn on the gas fireplace. I quickly stopped playing (gas over music any day) and now that I am typing this, I see his thought pattern. Little turkey! He knew I would quit playing if he turned on the fireplace!!!!!! Unbelievable.

Anyway, as Dona would say, I am spiderwebbing.

I think I scared him as I yelled to never, NEVER, NEVER turn on the fireplace. He tripped over my lovely candles I have on the hearth. :(

He ran and hid under the dining room chair. His little head was popping out and he just watched as I picked up the glass.

I calmly picked it up. I like to put out pretty things. So, I put them out and if they break, so be it. I am not one to put everything I like up out of reach. Different strokes for different folks. I teach the boys to respect our home, the contents, and when there is an accident, to take responsibility and help clean it up (not glass though). Honestly, we have had very few things break. It happens, but not too often. There are no off limit rooms, however, we respect where we are and the behavior in the room needs to be appropriate.

WOW!!! I am getting way off the subject!!

So, David keeps repeating, "Lukey broke it."

I am not really paying much attention due to the annoying sliver of glass in my foot that is a cross between pain and an itch.

After all was cleaned up, I found him in with the older two. I asked him what he needed to say. All he could come up with was, "Lukey broke it."

When that one didn't work with me, he changed it to, "Jenamin broke it."

That didn't fly with me either. So, he mumbled, "Sorry Mommy."

It got me thinking. How many times do I hear great truth and in the back of my mind think, "Boy do I wish so and so would hear this." Or, read convicting passages in the Bible and instead of looking at myself and the sin that God is trying to show me, think of how much so and so needs to read this passage. If I were focusing on the areas God is trying to deal with me, the application from the Truth, would fall on my shoulders and my eyes would not be so much on others, but on myself.

Quotes

2009-07-13T16:40:00.004-05:00

This was Benjamin on the first day of K4

This little guy cracks me up with the things he says!

To Luke he chided, "Luke, you sound like a whiny lady."

Last week as we were driving in the car. Our family was talking and apparently Benjamin became frustrated at the lack of attention he was receiving. To which he replied, "Some people get all the love."

Benjamin climbing a tree (one of his favorite things to do) at Gaucho farms in June of 2009.

Rainy Day and the News

2009-07-06T14:38:00.005-05:00

This is Uncle Daniel, Ben's brother. I have some news! He is getting married! He asked Brooke(click here to visit her site) to marry him, and guess what? She said, "Yes!" Congratulations Daniel!

About the new header:

The hands are Benjamin's and Luke's on glass doors we have going into our living room.

I was able to do some really fun editing stuff at this site (click here to try it out).

We have enjoyed our rainy day today.

We home schooled (we do this in the summer) this morning. I absolutely love getting to teach them. I know the time is so short and we will look back on that fondly.

After that, we went and did a little (emphasis on little) work in my room today.

I always start to get excited thinking about the upcoming school year!!!!!

Then, we went to Barnes and Noble. We had so much fun there, until it was time to leave.

We enjoyed an indoor picnic at home today since it was so rainy. How thankful I am for the rain!!! Our little vegetable garden is smiling.

The Conference, The Fountain Drink

2009-07-02T09:06:00.004-05:00

I just returned from Samford University. I am a graduate of Samford and have been blessed to attend a Summer Institute for Teaching Excellence with my dear friends and fellow teachers. I am beyond thankful for our friendships that we have at the preschool where I teach-it really is a God thing!

On my way home, I stopped at a Chevron on highway 231.

I was thirsty. From singing. That tendency can drive my boys batty. The iPod was invented for people like me. Now I can just sing any time I want to!!!! And sing I do. Aren't you proud Tonja?

So, the need to quench my thirst was great and I pulled into a nice clean facility to get a little gas and a GREAT BIG FOUNTAIN DIET COKE! You know there is nothing better.

I had cash.

Apparently, cash is becoming like a thing of the past in America.

I kept pushing the help button. To no avail.

I pull up to another tank since I am now wet with sweat and REALLY thirsty.

I notice signs on all of the other tanks. IF you have cash, pay inside. Oh.

I just wish the little lady inside would have used her little microphone to let me know I was looking like an idiot.

I headed inside to pay CASH for my gas and to purchase my icy, big, refreshing Diet Coke.

As I filled my cup, the cola ran out and was only the carbonated water-OH NO!!!!! I mention to the little lady the problem- thinking she would quickly switch the tanks. Not so much. She stayed where she was and said she would have to change it-her body language insinuated later as opposed to earlier.

Get this-I said,"Well here is my cup, I guess you just want me to throw it away?"

I said it like a question, but what I really meant was-sorry about the cup, I am not waiting for the Diet Coke tank change.

BUT YOU WILL NOT BELIEVE WHAT SHE SAID!!!!!!!!

"No don't throw away that cup, it is my inventory. I will just rinse it with a little Clorox."

Do you get what she is saying?

She was going to swish a cup that I handled, filled with some liquid and put Clorox in it and put it BACK OUT FOR SOMEONE ELSE TO BUY!!!!!

I looked at her in disbelief and said, " Ma'am that is GROSS!!!!!!"

photo courtesy of flickr.com

A little mishap

2009-06-28T09:00:00.002-05:00

Meet Coal. He is a great dog. Given the opportunity, Coal doesn't mind taking the scenic route.

I was watering our flowers the other day. Several hours later, I noticed Coal was not on the porch. He is an outside dog. As you know, it is about the temperature of Mercury around here lately. I figured he was long gone since it had been so long. The kids were all asleep for their naps and I couldn't go look for him.

I opened the garage door to call for him and I found him resting on the mat in the garage. Too hot even for a dog to run away with a wide open gate!

A little over a year ago, I got a call. Very early. Like something was wrong early. A sweet little lady just wanted me to know that Coal was in her laundry room. She complemented him and told me what a good dog he was. I couldn't take it all in when she was telling me, as I was still in shock that she told me OUR dog was in HER laundry room. Apparently, he went in through her doggie door. Nice.

Faith

2009-06-25T09:00:00.002-05:00

Last night, Benjamin asked me if he had faith now.

When he was in K4 he prayed to put his trust in Jesus. We believe he sincerely understood his need for a Savior, truly childlike faith.

When he asked me this last night I reminded him of this verse,"Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." Heb 11:1

This morning I have been thinking a lot about faith. I have put my trust in Jesus and am painfully aware of the GREAT need I have for a Savior. My faith is not in myself for salvation, but in Christ alone. God showed me that while my trust for salvation is in Him alone, am I relying on Him in the daily occurrences with that same trust? Don't get me wrong, I firmly believe once saved, always saved. I just think we often live a watered down life of faith. That is NOT what God has for us...He has so much more.

All that said, there are those times that my flesh, struggles to trust. I have found when situations arise that cause fear I can go back to my journals and see God's marvelous way of working. Today, God showed me a chapter in Hebrews I have read numerous times, but today, it came alive.

Today, something really hit me. In Hebrews 11:1-40 the author, instructed by the Holy Spirit, listed men and women of faith. My heritage, my example, God's people-from so long ago that He knew would impact me, and you. Keep in mind, these examples are humans, sinful by nature, but forgiven because of their FAITH and trust in a Savior. The old Testament Christians were saved by putting their trust and acknowledgement of their need of a Savior-by looking ahead to the Promised Coming Messiah. The New Testament believers, were saved by placing their trust in the The Messiah, Jesus, the Son of God.

So, now let's look at God's Word and examine faith, trust me, it is chilling-in a very holy sense. May God grant our eyes to be open and hearts to understand the promise He wants us to see.

"...And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him. By faith Noah, being warned by God about things not yet seen, in reverence prepared an ark for the salvation of his household, by which he condemned the world, and became an heir of the righteousness which is according to faith. By faith Abraham, when he was called obeyed by going out to a place which he was to receive for an inheritance; and he went out, not knowing where he was going. By faith he lived as an alien in the land of promise, as in a foreign land, dwelling in tents with Isaac and Jacob, fellow heirs of the same promise; for he was looking for a city which has foundations, whose architect and builder is God. By faith Sarah herself received ability to conceive, even beyond the proper time of life, since she considered Him faithful who had promised...."Heb.11:6-11

****The next verse is AMAZING, please keep reading!

"All these died in faith, without receiving the promises, but having seen them and having welcomed them from a distance, and having confessed that they were strangers and exiles on the earth." Heb. 11:13

***Skip down to verse 16,

"But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God; for He has prepared a city for them."

Chapter 11 goes on to list numerous people of faith. "By faith....", "By faith...", "By faith...".

I want to point out again in verse 13, it notes, they died without receiving the promise.

God desires more for us to grow in our love and faith in Him than He does for our earthly comfort. Remember at the end of verse 13, it says, "having confessed that they were strangers and exiles on the earth."

Now, I'll be the first to say I like comfort. I don't so much like the thought of exile life, but I am a pilgrim. I am NOT of this world, my promise is in my eternal home. Is my life reflecting that faith, is my faith full of grace and truth that shows the world a RADICAL difference?

I can't get to that place of faith like the Hebrews 11 hall of fame on my own effort, but that is what I want to be in Him. It is only by His grace and the equipping of the Holy Spirit that will shape my life to look like that. I first have to be willing to trust and let go of what seems to be my earthly comfort, and trust Him to be the Perfecter of my faith.

Oh God, by Your grace, may my life be one that is full of faith. Not in myself but in You, unshakable. Not that any would see me, but that Christ would be glorified. Perfect I am not, and never will be until heaven. Forgiven, I am and free to trust You. For You alone are trustworthy may my life say "By faith..."

Tickling The Ivory

2009-06-23T18:00:00.003-05:00

So our church was giving away a piano that was in the youth building. You might be wondering what condition a piano that a church is giving away might be in, that is a wonderful question.

The only stipulation was for the recipient to move it. Sounded GREAT to me. Just moving the little piano out and we get a FREE piano! Why NOT???

My husband, precious man that he is, was not so excited about my suggestion.

I do LOVE to play the piano and I hope I can teach my boys a couple of things on the right hand about playing too. I don't know the left too well, so I'm sticking with what I know. I don't really read the music that great, but like to make up songs. You know reading music is difficult when you really only can read what one hand plays. So, I just make up the songs. Not that I am that good at it, I just enjoy it. Long story is getting longer as opposed to shorter. Bottom line: he said yes.

Remember Gaucho Jorge? Ben recruited him to help us move the little piano, which didn't turn out to be little. It weighed a lot. Like about 600 pounds. I am not kidding.

They are strong. There were veins popping out of necks and grunts and man, a lot of sweat!

But, do you see that SMILE on Ben's face??????? What a guy!

I thought a little of this would shine her right up! It did. Very nicely.

This made me smile. Doesn't it look pretty!!! We think so. Now to get it tuned and to fix...

THESE! THEY ARE YELLOWISH DIRTY AND A BIT CHIPPED AT THE TIPS!!!

But I don't mind that, remember it is FREE!!!!!!! I was just wondering if any of you folks out there could help me know what to clean the keys with in hopes to restore them to the lovely white of days gone by. Locals, does anyone know of someone reasonable to tune it?

The Men

2009-06-22T07:34:00.008-05:00

This is Daddy George. He is so amazing. He serves so many people. He has tutored numerous adults and has taught them to read. He is a successful businessman and a wonderful Granddad and Great Granddad. He is married to Granny Hannie and even though she is not with us anymore, his life reminds me of her. Thank you for loving Granny and modeling a lasting, life-long marriage Daddy George.

These three men are the three men that I hope our boys turn out to be like. Ben, you love people well. I think you show Christ in so many ways to others through the humble life you lead. You seek to glorify the Lord in all that you do and reflect Him beautifully.

Van, thank you for loving me like a daughter and training your son, Ben in the way of righteousness.

Dad, thank you for modeling for me a loving marriage and what a loving husband looks like. You are a great dad and I love you.

Dear boys,

Daddy loves you and mommy more than you will ever know. He works for us and as unto the Lord. He is a wise man. He is a man of prayer. He also desires to serve and lead our family. I respect him greatly and pray that as you grow in "wisdom and stature and in favor with God and man," that you will watch Daddy and follow his example. He is a good man, he fears and loves the Lord.

Daddy loves to spend time with you boys doing fun things~

Daddy is also a fisherman. He loves to go to Colorado and fly fish. He is a patient man. He enjoys the challenge of the waters and the preparation it takes for a successful trip. He can tie his own flies, a hobby that we hope you boys will enjoy together with Daddy. Watching Daddy fly fish is truly beautiful, an art.

This is also beautiful to me. The loving relationship between a father and his son. Pop, we are thankful for your wisdom in raising Ben.

Ben, thank you for your love for our boys and me too. You are teaching each of them what it means to love the Lord our God.

"The place where God calls you is the place where your deep gladness and the world's deep hunger meet."

Frederick Buechner

Ben,

God has called you to be the Father for Benjamin, Luke and David. It is with great joy that I participate as your helper and my great honor to watch you guiding them. It is amazing to watch you lead them hand in hand into boyhood and eventually, manhood. For I know the One that is leading you, is supernaturally using you as we prepare Men of God. May His grace continue to abound in your life.

You are loved.

"If we would endeavor, like men of courage, to stand in the battle, surely we would feel the favorable assistance of God from Heaven. For he who giveth us occasion to fight, to the end we may get the victory, is ready to succor those that fight manfully, and do trust in his grace."

-Thomas A Kempis

We headed to the Farm:

2009-06-17T20:30:00.002-05:00

We like to have school over the summer. My boys love it. They do. I promise. However, we like a LOT of fun in our summer too, so....

Our learning for the day went HANDS ON!!!!

A chic flew the coop with her three boys!

We went to see some of these!

What fun it was to ride and play with our friends Jacob and Daniel! They have really cool toys.

May I introduce farmer Jorge. He is actually a gaucho. He and Suzanne took us for a hay ride with popsicles!!!! I mean who could beat that?

This is Jorge's wife, Suzanne. She is a doll!

Benjamin wanted to check out their amazing crops that put our vegetable garden, or should I say patch to shame!

They got to hold some of these. Luke did not want to actually hold it (he knows what they do) but enjoyed petting it!

Then we went for a walk on their VERY OWN boardwalk. Can you imagine? It was truly amazing.

We saw a snapping turtle lay her eggs.

If you look closely, you can see the ALLIGATOR. May I repeat, ALLIGATOR. We were not far off the swampy water. Like definitely in jaws reach. Yep, in jaws reach. But I had to get a picture. That made Luke mad. He was afraid that the Mama Gator would appear. She didn't.

This just makes my heart melt. Have you seen this little man sit so still and happy for a picture? Like it just doesn't happen.

And my heart keeps right on melting,

While my heart was melting, so was Luke's popsicle.

Thank you Jorge, Suzanne, Daniel, and Jacob for a WONDERFUL memory and a fabulous time. Here is proof we played hard: Got Dirt?

WE DO!

Coupon and The Farmers Market!!!!

2009-06-16T08:13:00.007-05:00

If you live where I do, chances are, you love this store!

The owner, Katie, is a friend of mine and is offering Coupon Monday!

That's right, Coupon Monday! So, hurry over here(click) and print this little bad boy and have yourself a good ol' morning at Bellamia! Then, come on back and report what you found! We ALL love a good sale!

THANKS KATIE!!!!!!!

Another local happening is taking place downtown. Thanks to Lindsey, I found out about this(click here). The local artists and the farmers are joining up for fun Saturdays downtown! I mean how great!!!!!

Can You Be Serious?!!?!

2009-06-15T14:45:00.003-05:00

I am so disappointed.

I scheduled a massage that I had a gift certificate for on Tuesday.

I was going to lunch and then planned to get a nice, relaxing massage.

How much fun!

No, the gift certificate is expired.

I don't have many days that I can schedule something like a massage.

I am disappointed and well, angry.

My brother gave me the gift certificate and now I CAN'T USE IT!!!

The recording that came on while I was on hold (checking to see if they would honor the gift certificate) was calm and said that they hoped I was having a good day. BUT if I wasn't, to meditate on why I wasn't having a good day. Really, that is what it said. Not good timing in my opinion.

I know it has something to do with the way that you pay people, but I am BUSY. REALLY BUSY. I simply didn't realize it expired as I kept it in a safe place waiting for the right day to use it. In my opinion, she got paid for something she DID NOT DO!!! Now I am in real need of a massage. UGHHHH! Bummer.

Sorry, I know one should not rant on the blog, but I HAD to share this disappointment with you. Tell me you feel my pain...

Scone Saturday, Chantilly Cream, and the Garage

2009-06-12T15:03:00.005-05:00

Don't you think that scones and the garage sound like they go hand in hand?

They don't. However, we have a very handy Pop. He is heading our way to help "us" organize the space that we affectionately refer to as the Pit.

Since he is so kind to volunteer his time and energy, I want to treat him well. Thanks to Abby(click here for the recipe) I have a new yummy scone recipe to try for a work break Saturday morning.

My dear friend and FABULOUS cook, Mary Lise has a wonderful compliment for scones. It is called Southern Clotted Cream. It might be that my Missouri raising steps in here, but there is something about the word "Clotted" that is not appetizing. So, I believe I have heard of Chantilly Cream. That I like. Doesn't it sound fluffy and nice and not clotted?

I am posting the recipe below:

Southern Clotted Cream OR Chantilly Cream

2 cups heavy whipping cream

¼ cup confectioner’s sugar

1 teaspoon almond flavoring

Put bowl and beaters in freezer for up to 30 minutes to cool. Beat heavy cream and gradually add the powdered sugar.

Add the almond flavoring as the mixture begins to thicken. Beat until mixture holds shapes and forms peak.

Will keep covered in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Serve in a crystal cordial glass. Top with a dried or fresh flower.

I can't wait to share with you all about our Thursday~It is a bit lengthy and my battery on my camera is dead. :(

We would LOVE for you to join us tonight at 6:30 for a concert with Paul Coleman(click here for more information)!!!!!

Come by First Presbyterian to enjoy a free concert with this Grammy nominated singer/songwriter.

Happy Friday~

The Recipe and David

2009-06-08T21:30:00.008-05:00

Thanks to Angie B. my beloved pediatrician and dear friend, we have a STREAKLESS cleaner that was recommended to her by the granite man she used.

Let me know what you think!

Here is the "secret recipe:"

1 part denatured alcohol (found in the paint section of Wal-Mart, etc.) to 16 parts water (found in your tap). The denatured alcohol is about $5 for a quart and lasts literally years! I got a spray bottle marked up to 18 oz so its easy at the dollar store. Love it! Works like a charm and cheap!

So, we had a little rain last week. One evening as we were about to sit down for a nice little family dinner, we noticed David was missing. If you have been reading about this three ring circus long enough, you know that is NOT unusual. We knew he was in the backyard or perhaps the play room. I sent Ben to hunt down the child and this is what he found:

When Ben asked him what he was doing, he replied I just playing. This is why I am graying earlier than I would like. Between the child and his umm, let's see how to phrase it, uninhibited ways along with the time it takes to download the video onto Blogger- just look for me to be a full head of white by July.

Come On By Folks!

2009-06-08T10:11:00.005-05:00

This Friday night we are getting together to enjoy music by the Grammy nominated Singer/Songwriter, Paul Colman(click here to go to his website)! WE would love for you to join us for this FREE concert! It will begin at 6:30 Join us at First Presbyterian Church Dothan. There is a nursery for kids 3 and under. I hope to see you there!

The Sale!

2009-06-06T12:53:00.003-05:00

OH Wow!!! What fun we had today! Thanks Emily, Kristen and Ellen for a super fun morning. :)

Well, now that the sale is over, my home is CRYING for attention. Ben has the boys pickin' a little bit of this and a little bit of that today, so I am cleaning solo! What fun I'll have! You might just find me doing a little happy dance as I mop or dust! We have a date night too with some friends! What a FABULOUS Saturday!

Lord, may our home be one of laughter.

May it be a sweet haven from the world in which we and others focus on you while in its walls.

May it be a light for You on our street(even though we yell at our children AND occasionally each other and most DEFIANTLY the dog)...

Oh Lord, more than anything may it be a place where my boys become men of God.

May we glorify You in all that we do and may we be refined to be more and more like Jesus.

Amen!

Ohhh yes! I almost forgot, I am going to post a WONDERFUL recipe for homemade granite cleaner that my friend Angie is sending for ALL OF US! IT IS STREAKLESS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Look for it Monday!

Garage Sale~

2009-06-04T17:18:00.003-05:00

Did you know you needed a permit to have a garage sale?

You do!

So, to avoid a $10 to $500 fine or possibly jail, we got one thanks to some friends~!

I never knew that.

We'll be pricing tomorrow and getting ready for our sale!!!!

Come on by 307 Riveredge Parkway Saturday morning!

Summer Fun

2009-06-03T21:25:00.003-05:00

I am relaxed.

My house is not clean and the cleaning fairy is no where to be found.

VBS is EXHAUSTING but so fun!

It is summer.

My kids were up until almost 10:00 last night. Just because.

We did things. Fun things- like play baseball in the yard,

go to Waffle House for dinner(we can feed 5 there for $20 and we LOVE it), we just made fun summer memories.

My Favorite Person

2009-06-01T19:03:00.001-05:00

Ben,

You are my favorite person. You remind me of my Savior, Jesus. You are so much fun to be around as well as being kind and loving. You are a leader, a humble leader. You don't demand to be in the center, but you are willing and glad to do things even when no one sees. I admire you for your servant leadership both in and out of our home.

I loved meeting you in Jamaica. What fun it was to serve alongside you while we did missions there. I loved our conversations about life and what it means to be sold out for Christ. I loved watching you work! You are SOOOOOO strong (and REALLY HOT) so it was REALLY hard for me to keep focused on my purpose in the Deaf Village. I loved washing the Team's dinner dishes with you in the heat as we sang out a joyful noise. Then, the airplane ride back- talking and talking. I was SOOOOOOOOOOO hoping you would call me, but I DID not want to appear forward so I tried to act nonchalant. I thought I would fly out of my car when you asked me to breakfast the next morning and the rest is history! That was the beginning of August 2000, we were engaged that December and married in July! What a whirlwind! What a blessing to walk through the dark days of this life with one like you, strong and unwavering. What fun times we have too!!!!

I am thankful for your life. I pray that this next year will be one filled with growth spiritually as you lead our family. It is my desire that as you pour out your life, Christ through His Spirit will fill you. You are my best friend. I love you. Happy Birthday!

Love,

Andi

Yard Sale and The Winner

2009-06-01T14:34:00.006-05:00

The winner is KAT!!!!!

Congrats!!!!! Kat gets to pick between a gift card to Starbucks or Atlanta Bread Company!

Benjamin was eating ribs for lunch. Hence the greasy name card! :) I wish I could give EACH of you something. I appreciate when you comment so much and am thankful that I have you all in this little thing we call a bloggy family.

So.....

There is a BIG garage sale this weekend. Some of us Gals are pulling together and cleaning out in hopes of great returns for our effort. We would LOVE for you to come "buy" (I could NOT resist that pun)!!!!!!

It's right off of John D. Odom----

307 Riveredge Parkway.

There are lots of things. For any of you mamas that would like a double Schwinn Jog stroller, mine is leaving me and heading to the sale. It actually makes me really sad. Granny Hannie and Daddy George gave it to me as a baby gift when I had Luke. I used it, A LOT. We made lots of good memories while walking. In fact, that is a post to come.

One Last Chance!

2009-06-01T07:40:00.002-05:00

Today is the last day(post by noon) to put your name in for a gift card for Atlanta Bread Company or Starbucks. Even if you don't do coffee, grab lunch or a coke on me. Just my way of saying that I am thankful for you~I'll post the winner this afternoon and will mail the gift card of your choice!!!!

Even if you don't have a blog, go ahead and comment to win, just click post a comment and go under anonymous. Just put your name on the comment so I know who you are!!!

Happy Day to you~

Today is our first day of VBS! I am teaching 2nd grade. I taught 2 grade back in the day and I am looking forward to it.

Hey, guess what! Remember that class I took at Troy? I got an A! :)

Now, the BEST part of this post!!!!!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Ben!!!!!!

More to come on my favorite person this afternoon. I love you!e

You can Pick

2009-05-28T11:08:00.003-05:00

Several of you got it....

I want to give you a Happy Day Surprise.

So, post a comment by Monday at noon along with your email address.

The winner can pick a gift card from Starbucks or Atlanta Bread Company.

I am Back, Sort of

2009-05-27T14:30:00.002-05:00

We have had a TERRIFICLY full May! I will post a recap and pictures later. I am supposed to be folding laundry right now. I did just finish polishing the silver and I have a couple of closets asking to be cleaned out.

So, do your kids have a "song?"

My boys have been singing,"Jingle Bells, Batman smells Robin laid an egg" for way too long. Months. Each time one of them sings it, the others just die laughing. I am S.I.C.K. of the song. I started saying no jingle bells songs until Christmas, but that just won't stop the earworm (that is what you call a song that you can't get out of your head). Boys.

I am behind on reading your blogs!!! I hope you all are having a wonderful summer so far and to the faithful few, I would love to have a drawing. More to come on that later too. It will be for one of my favorite things! Can you guess what it might be???????

Behind the Clouds

2009-05-19T06:45:00.004-05:00

This post is taken primarily from aTim Keller Study on Joy and Peace. I wanted to share it with you today!

Jesus says,"My peace I give you. Not as the world gives it, do I give it to you. Don't be troubled or afraid." John 14:27

What is the peace Jesus gives us?

The Hebrew word for peace is Shalom. It is multi-dimensional flourishing and fulfillment-spiritual, physical, emotional, social and cultural.

Peace has to do with wholeness in relationships.

There was a barrier between God and humanity, but Jesus paid the debt and now there is peace. This peace cannot increase or decrease.

Though in ourselves we are actually wicked, in Christ we are justified and accepted. (Romans 4:5)

So we have legal standing before God through Christ Jesus. We are holy and blameless in His sight. Col. 1:22

Shalom is the restoration of all of these relationships under the power and reign of God.

We are without peace when our relationship with God is broken, leading to psychological, social, and physical alienation.

I love this quote:

"There, peeping among the cloud-wrack above a dark tor high up in the mountains, Sam saw a white star twinkle for a while. The beauty of it smote his heart, as he looked up out of the forsaken land, and hope returned to him. For like a shaft, clear and cold, the thought pierced him that in the end the Shadow was only a small and passing thing: there was light and high beauty forever beyond its reach. His [courage before] had been defiance rather than hope; for then he was thinking of himself. Now, for a moment, his own fate and even his master's ceased to trouble him...Putting away all fear he cast himself into a deep untroubled sleep."

-J.R.R Tolkien

Whatever troubles you today friend, I say Shalom. I will say the same to myself. For the Shadow that lurks and seems so permanent, is but passing overhead and behold when it passes the view of the heavens is so rich it causes my heart to sing. Peace to you today as you rest in Christ Jesus alone. We are meant for more---this is merely preparation for all eternity.

"Then sings my soul!"

Questions:

2009-05-16T15:28:00.003-05:00

Luke: Mommy what keeps our hair on?

Me: What do you think keeps our hair on?

Luke: I think they glue it on.

Me: Who glues it on Luke?

Luke: You know, God.

This was a reminder...

2009-05-13T21:28:00.003-05:00

I went back to read some old posts. I came across this one today. I needed this reminder. If you would like to read the whole post, you can read it here.

This is what spoke to my heart again tonight:

I got in the car and drove silently for a moment. Then, I began my apology to the Holy Creator of the universe. I felt so sad that in a moment over lost coffee and music, I would blame my Heavenly Father. I talked with Him for awhile, I confessed my pride and anger. Then, He whispered, "I am working for your good."

fingerprints on the Glass

From Happy New Year to Happy August

Happy New Year!

When the checklist gets off

Tis The Season

I am Here!

The 22nd

Alarm

9

The Supplies are Done

To Clarify

Pray for Hannah Grace

It shined

A call to pray

Life Lately

We'll Be Here Friday Night!

Gaucho Farms

A thought for today...

Sundays and Adventures

Ben's Birthday Night

Thoughts about midlife

Happy Birthday Ben!

Survival Swimming

Lots of things and Monkey Eggs

Describe and Define

He is to me...

Life is...

Rain Days

Such Fun!

A Moment of Silence-Spring Break 2010

Rethinking

Good Bye

Wow!

Hello

yep

Should I call it a day

Today

Tomorrow I....

I throw in the towel

I am bound

Confessions

Um. I am a little busy.

Few words

So Snappy

How to Read

Boys

Got Pink?

Today

Share

Thankful

The Fleece and His understanding

A little Sympathy

Talking

Hey Friends!

The Struggle

Thoughts from the shore

Well, I am Here, Maybe

what if...

time keeps on ticking...

Don't Hold The Phone

We Began

It was a GREAT Day!

Getting Ready!

A Goal and A Dream

Singing At Midnight

My Life is Richer

To My Most Uncommon Hero,

The Blame Game

Quotes

Rainy Day and the News

The Conference, The Fountain Drink

A little mishap

Faith

Tickling The Ivory

The Men

We headed to the Farm:

Coupon and The Farmers Market!!!!

Can You Be Serious?!!?!

Scone Saturday, Chantilly Cream, and the Garage

The Recipe and David