One of the things I have been pondering this Christmas is how can singers sing some of our beautiful Christmas hymns about Christ, but yet not believe in Christ. Sort of has me befuddled... Also, what exactly are non-Christians celebrating when they celebrate Christmas?? Do they really just see it as a time to give and get gifts?? That just seems so shallow and pointless to me....Christ gives meaning to so much in my life and especially during this time of the year. I can't imagine Christmas without Christ.
This has come about by us watching an interview of James Taylor. In it he states that he was raised in a home that did not attend any church. We have a Christmas music CD of his that we listen to when we are in Drew's car. Some of the songs he sings are so heartfelt! But yet in the interview he talks of being "spiritual", but that's not the same as being a Christian with a saving belief in Jesus.
He's not the only one. One just has to listen to the radio (or Pandora or iTunes or Spotify) to hear just about any famous (and many not-so famous) people recording Christmas songs. And like James Taylor most seem very heartfelt. But then you look at their lives or read more of them and you just wonder....how do you sing of the Birth of a Savior and not believe in the words you are singing???
Life is an adventure arranged by the Father with Jesus as your seat belt and the Holy Spirit as your guide.
Showing posts with label Jesus stuff. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Jesus stuff. Show all posts
Friday, December 18, 2015
Monday, May 4, 2015
Uncertainties to Certainties
Lately I have been praying for so many of my friends as they walk the road of uncertainties. Problems are every where it seems....job needs....financial issues...children's mental and physical health....all have lead these dear friends to be overwhelmed with uncertainties.
I know something about living with uncertainties. That's just the life of a military wife. And as one of a newly retired military wife, as well. Those months that Drew didn't have a job after he retired from the Air Force were filled with uncertainties. In the mist of it all we didn't know how God was going to work things out. We felt in our hearts we were meant to stay here in Louisiana where our kids were settled and we were close to our families, but we didn't know how God would make it happen. Many days we had to push aside the feelings of being overwhelmed by those uncertainties and chose to trust in the One we were certain about.
And so, with those thoughts of our recent past I pray for my friends going through their current time of uncertainties. Pray that they focus on what is certain...God...the Almighty...
...that lives not only in heaven, but in our hearts...(John 14:2-4; Col 3:1-4;Eph 3:17)
...that gave up heaven to be Immanuel (God WITH us!)...(John 6:38; Matt 1:23)
...that desires us to have joy to the full...(John 15:11)
...that lives in us to direct us....(2 Tim 1:14; John 16:13)
...that who holds all things together - including our very lives (Col 1:17)
...who will be our finest treasure (Job 22:25)
...who is our refuge and strength (Psalm 46:1)
...who is our source of eternal salvation (Hebrews 5:9)
...who is near to the broken hearted (Psalm 34:18)
And mainly, I pray these friends will focus on the God who loves them. (John 3:16, Ro 5:8, Gal 2:20)
I know something about living with uncertainties. That's just the life of a military wife. And as one of a newly retired military wife, as well. Those months that Drew didn't have a job after he retired from the Air Force were filled with uncertainties. In the mist of it all we didn't know how God was going to work things out. We felt in our hearts we were meant to stay here in Louisiana where our kids were settled and we were close to our families, but we didn't know how God would make it happen. Many days we had to push aside the feelings of being overwhelmed by those uncertainties and chose to trust in the One we were certain about.
And so, with those thoughts of our recent past I pray for my friends going through their current time of uncertainties. Pray that they focus on what is certain...God...the Almighty...
...that lives not only in heaven, but in our hearts...(John 14:2-4; Col 3:1-4;Eph 3:17)
...that gave up heaven to be Immanuel (God WITH us!)...(John 6:38; Matt 1:23)
...that desires us to have joy to the full...(John 15:11)
...that lives in us to direct us....(2 Tim 1:14; John 16:13)
...that who holds all things together - including our very lives (Col 1:17)
...who will be our finest treasure (Job 22:25)
...who is our refuge and strength (Psalm 46:1)
...who is our source of eternal salvation (Hebrews 5:9)
...who is near to the broken hearted (Psalm 34:18)
And mainly, I pray these friends will focus on the God who loves them. (John 3:16, Ro 5:8, Gal 2:20)
Saturday, December 20, 2014
A Christmas Quiz
Last Wednesday night at church instead of continuing to teach on the life of Samuel, our pastor gave us a Christmas Quiz. He ended had us "grade" it. And he rewarded(gift cards to the local restaurants) the top ten highest scores - I'm happy to announce that I was one of them! Here's the questions - see how YOU do!
1. Who told Mary and Joseph to go to Bethlehem?
2. According to the Bible, what form of transportation did Mary and Joseph use to get to Bethlehem?
3. Which Old Testament prophet has the most to say about the birth of Christ?
4. Who told Joseph to name the baby Jesus?
5. What does the name Jesus mean?
6. What does the name Emmanuel mean?
7. How did the shepherds find Jesus?
8. How did the Wise Men find Jesus?
9. What were the three gifts given to Jesus by the Wise Men?
10. Who ordered the execution of two year olds and younger?
11. What was the name of the priest who was told he would not die until he say the Savior?
12. Who visited baby Jesus the night of his birth?
13. How old was Caesar Augustus when he died in 14AD? (This was sort of a trick question since the Bible really doesn't say, but the pastor used it as a tie-breaker - we got points for being close.)
(Our pastor, also, added some questions about Samuel since we have been studying him, but I won't add those here.)
Answers:
1. Caesar Augustus to be numbered for a tax; 2. The Bible doesn't say; 3. Isaiah; 4. an Angel (possibly Gabriel, but the Angel is not named); 5. Savior; 6. God with Us; 7. Angels; 8. a star; 9. Gold, frankincense, and myrrh; 10. King Herod; 11. Simeon; 12. Shepherds; 13. 75
So? How did you go?? Let me know!!
1. Who told Mary and Joseph to go to Bethlehem?
2. According to the Bible, what form of transportation did Mary and Joseph use to get to Bethlehem?
3. Which Old Testament prophet has the most to say about the birth of Christ?
4. Who told Joseph to name the baby Jesus?
5. What does the name Jesus mean?
6. What does the name Emmanuel mean?
7. How did the shepherds find Jesus?
8. How did the Wise Men find Jesus?
9. What were the three gifts given to Jesus by the Wise Men?
10. Who ordered the execution of two year olds and younger?
11. What was the name of the priest who was told he would not die until he say the Savior?
12. Who visited baby Jesus the night of his birth?
13. How old was Caesar Augustus when he died in 14AD? (This was sort of a trick question since the Bible really doesn't say, but the pastor used it as a tie-breaker - we got points for being close.)
(Our pastor, also, added some questions about Samuel since we have been studying him, but I won't add those here.)
Answers:
1. Caesar Augustus to be numbered for a tax; 2. The Bible doesn't say; 3. Isaiah; 4. an Angel (possibly Gabriel, but the Angel is not named); 5. Savior; 6. God with Us; 7. Angels; 8. a star; 9. Gold, frankincense, and myrrh; 10. King Herod; 11. Simeon; 12. Shepherds; 13. 75
So? How did you go?? Let me know!!
Sunday, December 7, 2014
Weekend Update
Soccer....
While we won Thursday and Friday night, we lost Saturday morning 5 to 0....which, sadly, knocked us out of the tournament. In soccer the amount of goals counts and when you lose by five, it pretty much is not good. William was pretty bummed.
Melissa...
Melissa was able to make up all the work she missed being out of school Monday afternoon and Tuesday due to mono. She probably should have stayed home at least another day, but she was done being sick. She knew how much work she was missing and did not want it to pile up any more. She did start some steroid medication and it has helped.
Election....
I did work the election yesterday. As I have in the past, I enjoyed myself. The day went by fast since we were very steady for the first part of the day. After lunch it tapered off and was sporadic, but overall we had more voters to show up for this run-off then for the general election in November in our precinct (not sure what it was state wide, but heard it was less than November). I enjoy working and getting to know the ladies at my table. We all are from different parts of the parish, so I'm don't think I would have met them otherwise.
Church....
This morning was the choir's Christmas concert. As usual, they did a great job. But I will say, it's mostly the same music/songs they have done for the last two years. Oh, well. They did sound wonderful...nice way to get in the Christmas spirit.
Kids...
Melissa and Benjamin went to the youth retreat this weekend. They seemed to have a good time, but I'm not sure what they learned spiritually....I guess time will tell if I hear more of the lessons or more of the games and socialization!
While we won Thursday and Friday night, we lost Saturday morning 5 to 0....which, sadly, knocked us out of the tournament. In soccer the amount of goals counts and when you lose by five, it pretty much is not good. William was pretty bummed.
Melissa...
Melissa was able to make up all the work she missed being out of school Monday afternoon and Tuesday due to mono. She probably should have stayed home at least another day, but she was done being sick. She knew how much work she was missing and did not want it to pile up any more. She did start some steroid medication and it has helped.
Election....
I did work the election yesterday. As I have in the past, I enjoyed myself. The day went by fast since we were very steady for the first part of the day. After lunch it tapered off and was sporadic, but overall we had more voters to show up for this run-off then for the general election in November in our precinct (not sure what it was state wide, but heard it was less than November). I enjoy working and getting to know the ladies at my table. We all are from different parts of the parish, so I'm don't think I would have met them otherwise.
Church....
This morning was the choir's Christmas concert. As usual, they did a great job. But I will say, it's mostly the same music/songs they have done for the last two years. Oh, well. They did sound wonderful...nice way to get in the Christmas spirit.
Kids...
Melissa and Benjamin went to the youth retreat this weekend. They seemed to have a good time, but I'm not sure what they learned spiritually....I guess time will tell if I hear more of the lessons or more of the games and socialization!
Monday, July 28, 2014
Growing Up
This week the kids are with the youth group for Mission Week. They stay the night at church and during the day they volunteer at different places around town. Last night as they were getting all their stuff together, we had to gather blow-up mattresses, sleeping bags, blankets, towel....all that fun stuff they need to camp at the gym at church. At one point I asked Benjamin if he had everything he needed. He said yes...that he just needed a quilt. I asked if he was sure and he said was.
As usual when the kids are gone, I get in a cleaning mood to clean their rooms. As I was straightening up Ben's room I saw his sleeping bag. And that's when it hit me why he said he just needed a quilt.
His sleeping bag? It's a Hot Wheels one...not exactly what a 13 year old wants to take for all the youth group to see.
Tonight after I helped cook and serve dinner for the youth group, I went to Target and bought Benjamin a nice plain blue adult size sleeping bag...with not a Hot Wheel in sight. I'm sure he'll sleep much better tonight than he did with just a small quilt. He may be my baby, but he's not longer a baby.
As usual when the kids are gone, I get in a cleaning mood to clean their rooms. As I was straightening up Ben's room I saw his sleeping bag. And that's when it hit me why he said he just needed a quilt.
His sleeping bag? It's a Hot Wheels one...not exactly what a 13 year old wants to take for all the youth group to see.
Tonight after I helped cook and serve dinner for the youth group, I went to Target and bought Benjamin a nice plain blue adult size sleeping bag...with not a Hot Wheel in sight. I'm sure he'll sleep much better tonight than he did with just a small quilt. He may be my baby, but he's not longer a baby.
Thursday, July 24, 2014
Crazy Teens
A few weeks ago, the church hosted a lock-in for the middle school. Benjamin said he had a good time. Last night it was the high schoolers turn with a lock-out. Why, oh, why do teens like to stay up ALL. NIGHT. LONG????
Yes, I did it, too as a teen. But now? No way!
So, after youth meeting last night, they first saw a movie, then bowling, then ate at IHOP, then roller skating, then went swimming at one of the youth's pool. Melissa and William walked in about 6:30 and were in bed asleep by 6:35.
Don't blame them there.
Sadly, they both had ortho appointments at ten. After they got home from that, both went back to bed. Although, William said he really didn't go to sleep....just dozed for awhile. Melissa slept hard until I woke her up at four.
Hopefully, they both will sleep well tonight.
I remember going to several lock-in as a teen. Most were with my youth group, but we rented another church's facilities as they had an in-house bowling alley and let roller skates on their gym floor. I, also, remember going to a few with my Methodist friends. Let's just say the Baptist believed in more supervision than the Methodist did.
Yes, I did it, too as a teen. But now? No way!
So, after youth meeting last night, they first saw a movie, then bowling, then ate at IHOP, then roller skating, then went swimming at one of the youth's pool. Melissa and William walked in about 6:30 and were in bed asleep by 6:35.
Don't blame them there.
Sadly, they both had ortho appointments at ten. After they got home from that, both went back to bed. Although, William said he really didn't go to sleep....just dozed for awhile. Melissa slept hard until I woke her up at four.
Hopefully, they both will sleep well tonight.
I remember going to several lock-in as a teen. Most were with my youth group, but we rented another church's facilities as they had an in-house bowling alley and let roller skates on their gym floor. I, also, remember going to a few with my Methodist friends. Let's just say the Baptist believed in more supervision than the Methodist did.
Tuesday, July 22, 2014
Lazy Summer Day
This is a lazy week for me....not too much going on. Yesterday, Melissa and I went shopping for school uniforms. At one of the local 2nd hand places, we were able to get the rest of the bottoms she needed as well as a nice dress for her cousin's wedding. She still needs a few of the uniform pull-over/polos....hopefully, we'll find some she likes soon. I think both boys are okay.....probably should check on pants for William....but getting either of the boys to go through their clothes is a major ordeal. I'm just not up for it yet. Time is running out though.....maybe tomorrow morning since soccer is cancelled.
Melissa babysat last night for one family and this morning for another family. She'll keep another family for the rest of the week. Good thing too...she was down to $9 in cash! Meanwhile the boys are just hanging out with me at the house....yep, you guess it: playing video games.
I was able to work on a Bible study project this morning and got some sewing done. I started the day off with a slight headache and, so, was not so motivated to work....got a book finished though!
Hopefully, tomorrow will be more productive!
Melissa babysat last night for one family and this morning for another family. She'll keep another family for the rest of the week. Good thing too...she was down to $9 in cash! Meanwhile the boys are just hanging out with me at the house....yep, you guess it: playing video games.
I was able to work on a Bible study project this morning and got some sewing done. I started the day off with a slight headache and, so, was not so motivated to work....got a book finished though!
Hopefully, tomorrow will be more productive!
Monday, July 7, 2014
Independence Weekend
We had a very nice long holiday weekend.....even if there were a few bumps along the way and that it didn't have the best ending.
Thursday afternoon we drove north to Hot Springs, Ark in time to have a nice dinner and to see a magic show. Several years ago, Drew and I were in Hot Springs for a marriage retreat and saw this show - we loved it! What I really loved was how family friendly it was. What a rare find! So many times a show or movie has a comment here or there that you just hope flies over the kids' head so you don't have to explain something you know they (or you!) aren't ready to know just yet. Maxwell Blade keeps in mind who in is his audience. I, also, love how at the very end of his show, he tells how his life was in a very bad place and Jesus saved him. He doesn't hit you over the head with the Gospel, but just says Jesus is the answer. Then he finishes up the show. He just plants the seed and lets God grow it. Love it, love it, love it!!
Based on how attentive my kids were, I think they enjoyed the show as well. They were trying to figure out how all the tricks worked. We think we know how some were done...after all, Drew used to be a magician...but there were a few we weren't too sure about. Good stuff!
Friday the boys just stayed around the hotel, watched tv....stayed lazy...which they all loved! Melissa and I walked up to the main street and went shopping. We both ended up with a few bath soap items. Melissa found a great top for less than $10. Then we meet the boys for lunch and some geocaching. (We found three.) It was just one of those easy - no rush days. We went back to the hotel to watch some of the World Cup....take a nap....continued being lazy...catch some fireworks out of the hotel room window....just a great day.
Saturday we spent at the local amusement and water park. While none of us are big on roller-coasters, everyone enjoyed the water slides. Well, everyone but me. I'm more of a wave pool and lazy river type....that way I don't have to go underwater...which I'm not very fond of...after all, I have no gills so I'll just say on top of the water, thank-you-very-much.
Drew spoiled us by renting a cabana...that even came with a tv....so we got out World Cup soccer games in...along with plenty of shade. So worth the money!!!
Off and on during the day, Melissa said she had a headache....yeah, well, so did I...but I had no meds so we just toughed it out. Once we got back to the car around six in the evening, she took her migraine medicine...but it didn't work. About eight-ish she took some more...and then started to throw up. Thankfully, we had brought a bucket! (One of the things the cabana came with was a bucket with ice and water bottles...while I didn't really want the bucket, I knew it just might come in handy with a child and a migraine. As William said as we stopped along the road to take care of Melissa, "good call on the bucket, Mom!!" See. We moms do know a thing or two!)
After we got home around nine-ish, Melissa just couldn't keep anything down and was still in massive pain. So, after a twenty minute phone call to our insurance getting permission (twenty minutes!! I had to talk to three different people!! I'm trying to focus on the fact that I have great insurance - and I am VERY THANKFUL for that, but it's a loooong twenty minutes when your child is in pain.) to take her to the ER. We got there about 10:45 and got home at 2:30. Not a short trip....but it could have been so much worse, I guess.
(On a side note....there is some weird stuff on the tv that late at night.....unless you believe in alien adductions.....)
They gave her an IV for the dehydration, medicine for the nausea and two different kinds of meds for the pain. About ten minutes after the medicine was given, I asked her how she was feeling I got a "I feel happy!" response in a sort of a loopy voice and a slight smile. Very funny! And she was still feeling happy Sunday afternoon. (I, on-the-other-hand, was not....I should have asked for some of that happy medicine, too. Thankfully, my head is clear this morning. Oh, how I hate migraines!)
So, our weekend ended with Melissa and I staying home from church and sleeping. By supper time we both were functioning almost at normal. While it wasn't a trouble free weekend, it was still a good weekend....just next time I'll take some headache medication with us and try to get her to drink more water. Live and learn.
Thursday afternoon we drove north to Hot Springs, Ark in time to have a nice dinner and to see a magic show. Several years ago, Drew and I were in Hot Springs for a marriage retreat and saw this show - we loved it! What I really loved was how family friendly it was. What a rare find! So many times a show or movie has a comment here or there that you just hope flies over the kids' head so you don't have to explain something you know they (or you!) aren't ready to know just yet. Maxwell Blade keeps in mind who in is his audience. I, also, love how at the very end of his show, he tells how his life was in a very bad place and Jesus saved him. He doesn't hit you over the head with the Gospel, but just says Jesus is the answer. Then he finishes up the show. He just plants the seed and lets God grow it. Love it, love it, love it!!
Based on how attentive my kids were, I think they enjoyed the show as well. They were trying to figure out how all the tricks worked. We think we know how some were done...after all, Drew used to be a magician...but there were a few we weren't too sure about. Good stuff!
Friday the boys just stayed around the hotel, watched tv....stayed lazy...which they all loved! Melissa and I walked up to the main street and went shopping. We both ended up with a few bath soap items. Melissa found a great top for less than $10. Then we meet the boys for lunch and some geocaching. (We found three.) It was just one of those easy - no rush days. We went back to the hotel to watch some of the World Cup....take a nap....continued being lazy...catch some fireworks out of the hotel room window....just a great day.
Saturday we spent at the local amusement and water park. While none of us are big on roller-coasters, everyone enjoyed the water slides. Well, everyone but me. I'm more of a wave pool and lazy river type....that way I don't have to go underwater...which I'm not very fond of...after all, I have no gills so I'll just say on top of the water, thank-you-very-much.
Drew spoiled us by renting a cabana...that even came with a tv....so we got out World Cup soccer games in...along with plenty of shade. So worth the money!!!
Off and on during the day, Melissa said she had a headache....yeah, well, so did I...but I had no meds so we just toughed it out. Once we got back to the car around six in the evening, she took her migraine medicine...but it didn't work. About eight-ish she took some more...and then started to throw up. Thankfully, we had brought a bucket! (One of the things the cabana came with was a bucket with ice and water bottles...while I didn't really want the bucket, I knew it just might come in handy with a child and a migraine. As William said as we stopped along the road to take care of Melissa, "good call on the bucket, Mom!!" See. We moms do know a thing or two!)
After we got home around nine-ish, Melissa just couldn't keep anything down and was still in massive pain. So, after a twenty minute phone call to our insurance getting permission (twenty minutes!! I had to talk to three different people!! I'm trying to focus on the fact that I have great insurance - and I am VERY THANKFUL for that, but it's a loooong twenty minutes when your child is in pain.) to take her to the ER. We got there about 10:45 and got home at 2:30. Not a short trip....but it could have been so much worse, I guess.
(On a side note....there is some weird stuff on the tv that late at night.....unless you believe in alien adductions.....)
They gave her an IV for the dehydration, medicine for the nausea and two different kinds of meds for the pain. About ten minutes after the medicine was given, I asked her how she was feeling I got a "I feel happy!" response in a sort of a loopy voice and a slight smile. Very funny! And she was still feeling happy Sunday afternoon. (I, on-the-other-hand, was not....I should have asked for some of that happy medicine, too. Thankfully, my head is clear this morning. Oh, how I hate migraines!)
So, our weekend ended with Melissa and I staying home from church and sleeping. By supper time we both were functioning almost at normal. While it wasn't a trouble free weekend, it was still a good weekend....just next time I'll take some headache medication with us and try to get her to drink more water. Live and learn.
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Monday, June 30, 2014
More of William
Back in March some time, William along with all other juniors in the State of Lou-zee-ana took the ACT. This was his third time. Yes, that's a lot....and odd, I know, but we had him take it as a ninth grader just to see where he was at (he had taken many classes ahead of schedule, so we felt like he was prepared somewhat)....to know what he needed to work on. At that point he made a 26 - which we were THRILLED about!! It was high enough to qualify for the in-state tuition program. (He was, also, relieved. We have told our children they are responsible for paying for half of their college - hopefully, through scholarships.) He took it again a year late as tenth grader and made a 28. Again, we were thrilled.
If it had been up to me, I would have stopped there. But it wasn't. As I said, all eleventh graders take it during school here - no exceptions. Besides, my tax dollars pay for it. He made a 30. Yippeeee!!!
Now we were beyond THRILLED!!! A 30 would get even more scholarships than that 28. Love it!
But....he made a 26 in the math portion....he wasn't happy about that. If he had gotten a 28, then he would qualify for the honors program at his current school of choice. He wanted to take it again.
Really?? Sounds like torture to me...but hey! Sure, I'll pay the $36.50....on ONE condition: you study math. He knew from his scores he didn't go very well on the basic algebra part (which he took as a seventh grader) nor did well in geometry (which he took in eight grade). I wanted him to work on those sections.
And he did. For two weeks before the test on June 14, he worked out math problems as well as reviewed the English part. Friday night we got his new score: 32 over all and a 32 in the math section!!!!
Once again: BEYOND THRILLED!!
A 32 will pretty much qualify him for a full ride any where he wants to go. He's still leaning towards LA Tech an hour away from home, but it's so nice to know he can have his pick of schools and not have to worry about being saddled down with debt after gradation.
At the end of the night, Drew and I looked at each other and wonder out loud how in the world we ended up with such a smart kid! (If you add my ACT score and Drew's together, you might get a 32....maybe...no promises on that.) The blessings of the Lord are amazing. We are very grateful.
And BEYOND THRILLED!!
If it had been up to me, I would have stopped there. But it wasn't. As I said, all eleventh graders take it during school here - no exceptions. Besides, my tax dollars pay for it. He made a 30. Yippeeee!!!
Now we were beyond THRILLED!!! A 30 would get even more scholarships than that 28. Love it!
But....he made a 26 in the math portion....he wasn't happy about that. If he had gotten a 28, then he would qualify for the honors program at his current school of choice. He wanted to take it again.
Really?? Sounds like torture to me...but hey! Sure, I'll pay the $36.50....on ONE condition: you study math. He knew from his scores he didn't go very well on the basic algebra part (which he took as a seventh grader) nor did well in geometry (which he took in eight grade). I wanted him to work on those sections.
And he did. For two weeks before the test on June 14, he worked out math problems as well as reviewed the English part. Friday night we got his new score: 32 over all and a 32 in the math section!!!!
Once again: BEYOND THRILLED!!
A 32 will pretty much qualify him for a full ride any where he wants to go. He's still leaning towards LA Tech an hour away from home, but it's so nice to know he can have his pick of schools and not have to worry about being saddled down with debt after gradation.
At the end of the night, Drew and I looked at each other and wonder out loud how in the world we ended up with such a smart kid! (If you add my ACT score and Drew's together, you might get a 32....maybe...no promises on that.) The blessings of the Lord are amazing. We are very grateful.
And BEYOND THRILLED!!
Monday, June 23, 2014
Camp Report
My wonderful little duckies came home from camp at two a.m. Sunday. The bus broke down - of course - and so they were two hours late. But at least they are home.
Well. Melissa was home. She left today around 2 p.m. for the elementary camp where she is a counselor. My little girl was so tired! She went to sleep last night around 9:30. I had to wake her up at 11 this morning. While most of her clothes were packed, she still had to gather some of her things and do a few chores before she left. I think she will be totally exhausted by the time she gets back Friday morning. At least this camp is shorter, close by, and since it's with elementary kids, they will be going to be before midnight each night.
Sunday we were able to sit and let the kids tell Drew and I stories from camp week. Several were entertaining.... One night each group were to do a skit and it turned out most did comedy skits based on the staff members of the church. I wish I had seen a few of those! They sounded hilarious!
Of course, being a bunch of teenagers there were some problems. One issue was not new: modesty. One person definition of what modesty looks like is different from another person's....and yes. The teen girls don't like the youth leaders definition. For me, it seems to be an issue of respect. You know the rules of the camp before you paid....so....don't complain. If you don't like the rules, then don't come! Many liked seeing how much they could get away with....such a spirit of rebellion and pride in the end showing it's ugly head.
Then there was Benjamin and his lost wallet. This is not the first time this child has lost a wallet. Luckily, the last two times God had some grace for the child and it was returned to him with every cent still there.
This time?
Nope. Totally lost.
On the way to camp in New Mexico, well over 15 hours from here, they stopped to eat on Monday morning (they left Sunday night at ten and drove all night long....and still didn't get there until after noon on Monday.) After they ate at a fast food restaurant, a few of the boys including William and Benjamin went into the nearby Wal-Mart. Ben remembers having his wallet in his hands as he walked into the Wal-Mart, but doesn't remember what happened to it after that.
Over these last few years I have told the boys time and time again to NOT wear soccer shorts off the soccer field as they have no pockets to keep their wallets in. Being boys that think they know better, they ignored mom.
So.
Benjamin had no where to put his wallet because he decided to wear soccer shorts on the bus ride to camp. And apparently, set his wallet down in the store as he was looking at something. Urgggg......
makes me sick to think of how much money was in there.....he had at least $70 in cash and a few gift cards....absolutely sick to my stomach!!
When I told this story to a friend, she said jokingly that maybe I can get him a "man-purse". Sadly, he had one!!! Each of the boys have an Ole Miss soccer bag. Ben used his to keep his wallet, a few snacks, his Epi Pen, a book...just a few things he wanted with him on the bus. But when they stopped for breakfast he decided to just take his wallet not the whole bag.
Thankfully, I forgot to give him his military ID card, so at least that's not lost (that would have been a huge headache to replace!!!). I'm hoping this will be a lesson to him.
But just in case its not, I have taken all his soccer shorts away. He's not allowed to have them anymore....when soccer season returns, he'll get them back - but not now.
Well. Melissa was home. She left today around 2 p.m. for the elementary camp where she is a counselor. My little girl was so tired! She went to sleep last night around 9:30. I had to wake her up at 11 this morning. While most of her clothes were packed, she still had to gather some of her things and do a few chores before she left. I think she will be totally exhausted by the time she gets back Friday morning. At least this camp is shorter, close by, and since it's with elementary kids, they will be going to be before midnight each night.
Sunday we were able to sit and let the kids tell Drew and I stories from camp week. Several were entertaining.... One night each group were to do a skit and it turned out most did comedy skits based on the staff members of the church. I wish I had seen a few of those! They sounded hilarious!
Of course, being a bunch of teenagers there were some problems. One issue was not new: modesty. One person definition of what modesty looks like is different from another person's....and yes. The teen girls don't like the youth leaders definition. For me, it seems to be an issue of respect. You know the rules of the camp before you paid....so....don't complain. If you don't like the rules, then don't come! Many liked seeing how much they could get away with....such a spirit of rebellion and pride in the end showing it's ugly head.
Then there was Benjamin and his lost wallet. This is not the first time this child has lost a wallet. Luckily, the last two times God had some grace for the child and it was returned to him with every cent still there.
This time?
Nope. Totally lost.
On the way to camp in New Mexico, well over 15 hours from here, they stopped to eat on Monday morning (they left Sunday night at ten and drove all night long....and still didn't get there until after noon on Monday.) After they ate at a fast food restaurant, a few of the boys including William and Benjamin went into the nearby Wal-Mart. Ben remembers having his wallet in his hands as he walked into the Wal-Mart, but doesn't remember what happened to it after that.
Over these last few years I have told the boys time and time again to NOT wear soccer shorts off the soccer field as they have no pockets to keep their wallets in. Being boys that think they know better, they ignored mom.
So.
Benjamin had no where to put his wallet because he decided to wear soccer shorts on the bus ride to camp. And apparently, set his wallet down in the store as he was looking at something. Urgggg......
makes me sick to think of how much money was in there.....he had at least $70 in cash and a few gift cards....absolutely sick to my stomach!!
When I told this story to a friend, she said jokingly that maybe I can get him a "man-purse". Sadly, he had one!!! Each of the boys have an Ole Miss soccer bag. Ben used his to keep his wallet, a few snacks, his Epi Pen, a book...just a few things he wanted with him on the bus. But when they stopped for breakfast he decided to just take his wallet not the whole bag.
Thankfully, I forgot to give him his military ID card, so at least that's not lost (that would have been a huge headache to replace!!!). I'm hoping this will be a lesson to him.
But just in case its not, I have taken all his soccer shorts away. He's not allowed to have them anymore....when soccer season returns, he'll get them back - but not now.
Monday, June 16, 2014
Camp Day One....
Today was the first day the kids were gone to camp...and it was a lot like the first day they were gone on the mission trip during Spring Break: I cleaned. Thankfully, nothing was as dirty as it was during that Spring Break cleaning spree.
Not sure why I'm like this. I think better when my house is clean. Also, I now have five days to play.
I have several sewing/quilting projects I would like to work on.....errands one day.....finish a book start another one.....
Last night we watched Ole Miss play in the baseball College World Series....tough loss. Tonight we are watching the USA play in the World Cup (that's soccer if you're living under a rock or just don't care about soccer). At the moment we are winning....but that second half is a long one.... We scored within 37 SECONDS!! Amazing!! May it happen again!!!
Not sure why I'm like this. I think better when my house is clean. Also, I now have five days to play.
I have several sewing/quilting projects I would like to work on.....errands one day.....finish a book start another one.....
Last night we watched Ole Miss play in the baseball College World Series....tough loss. Tonight we are watching the USA play in the World Cup (that's soccer if you're living under a rock or just don't care about soccer). At the moment we are winning....but that second half is a long one.... We scored within 37 SECONDS!! Amazing!! May it happen again!!!
Saturday, June 14, 2014
The Moment of Opportunity
On Friday we survived the last day of VBS. I finally just gave up trying to get all the preschoolers (anywhere from 19 to 32 in four different classes) to listen to me. Some just can't....too many kids....too much going on...very loud in the gym....and for 15 minutes it just wasn't worth it. But I do think the preschoolers had fun. We did lots of relays....with small balls, with bean bags. We played with the large parachute and played with hula hoops. In the end the main goal of running off some of their energy while the main teachers had a small break was achieved.
Friday as the boys and I were getting out of the car, both boys just jumped out of the van and ran for the church gym practically before I had my door open. I smiled. Yep. They are ready to see their friends. I was very pleasantly surprised to see William turn around about half-way and make his way back to the van to help me bring in the box of small bean bags.
Awww. My heart melted a bit. See!! I AM raising a thoughtful sweet boy!!! I even told him so: "That was so sweet! Thank you for helping me!"
As I walked into the gym a few steps behind William, I see him taking the bean bags out and PELTING his brother with them.
Awww. NOT SO SWEET!!!
Yep. Some times kids can make you look a good. Other times, they are peeing on the car tires at Wal-Mart. (back story here)
Later in the day as I was telling the story to Drew, I asked William if he planned it that way (to throw the bean bags at Benjamin). He said no..."Just took the moment of opportunity."
Yep. That's boys.
Friday as the boys and I were getting out of the car, both boys just jumped out of the van and ran for the church gym practically before I had my door open. I smiled. Yep. They are ready to see their friends. I was very pleasantly surprised to see William turn around about half-way and make his way back to the van to help me bring in the box of small bean bags.
Awww. My heart melted a bit. See!! I AM raising a thoughtful sweet boy!!! I even told him so: "That was so sweet! Thank you for helping me!"
As I walked into the gym a few steps behind William, I see him taking the bean bags out and PELTING his brother with them.
Awww. NOT SO SWEET!!!
Yep. Some times kids can make you look a good. Other times, they are peeing on the car tires at Wal-Mart. (back story here)
Later in the day as I was telling the story to Drew, I asked William if he planned it that way (to throw the bean bags at Benjamin). He said no..."Just took the moment of opportunity."
Yep. That's boys.
Tuesday, June 10, 2014
So Far This Week
It's VBS week here. As I have for the last few years, I am teaching preschool games. Overall, it's probably the easiest job in all of VBS. I arrive late teach four 15 minute classes, then leave early. But mainly, I teach it because I didn't have an excuse not to teach.....not very Christian like I know. It seems that the older my kids get, the less I like little kids. The boys are helping me, so at least I get to spend time with them. This year the first class had 27, the next 16, then 27, and the last was two classes combine with a whopping total of 33 preschoolers.
Woooza!
Yep. That's a lot of kids!! Hopefully, all those 15 minutes will go fast. Yesterday we played golf with a shortened swim noodle and a little plastic 5 inch ball. Today it's the parachute....that usually makes them crazy, so I'm excepting lots of yelling and screaming today...maybe I should grab my ear plugs....
The boys are taking piano lessons this month. As usually, Benjamin has complained at just about every turn. I'm convinced that he complains just to irate me. None of my kids liked the teacher that are assigned to through the school. In fact, Melissa and William quit going to lesson with him. Benjamin would like to, but in this family all kids take piano lessons until the end of 8th grade, then it's their choice. He has one more year. This summer they are taking lessons with one of the youth workers - it's actually William's Sunday school teacher. He's newly married....about 26 yrs old or so...very likable. (The guy through the school is very, very quiet....waaay too quiet....almost no personality quiet.) Both boys like Brian a lot, so I'm hoping this is a good experience for them both. I think William missed taking lessons. I'm really enjoying the house filling with music! (Melissa is not taking due to total lack of interest and how much she is gone this month.)
The kids and I are looking forward to Friday. There's a "food truck round-up" across town and we are hoping to find it on Friday. We've seen several shows on the Food Network about food trucks. Hopefully, we'll find it...and hopefully, the food is as good as the TV host say it is.
While we are across town, we are will, also, be on the lookout for costumes the kids need for camp. Each night of camp there's a dress-up theme. This year it's America, Disney, Fan Night, Dress Your Best, and What You Want to be When You Grow-up. So, we'll be hitting a few thrift stores to see what we can find.
Woooza!
Yep. That's a lot of kids!! Hopefully, all those 15 minutes will go fast. Yesterday we played golf with a shortened swim noodle and a little plastic 5 inch ball. Today it's the parachute....that usually makes them crazy, so I'm excepting lots of yelling and screaming today...maybe I should grab my ear plugs....
The boys are taking piano lessons this month. As usually, Benjamin has complained at just about every turn. I'm convinced that he complains just to irate me. None of my kids liked the teacher that are assigned to through the school. In fact, Melissa and William quit going to lesson with him. Benjamin would like to, but in this family all kids take piano lessons until the end of 8th grade, then it's their choice. He has one more year. This summer they are taking lessons with one of the youth workers - it's actually William's Sunday school teacher. He's newly married....about 26 yrs old or so...very likable. (The guy through the school is very, very quiet....waaay too quiet....almost no personality quiet.) Both boys like Brian a lot, so I'm hoping this is a good experience for them both. I think William missed taking lessons. I'm really enjoying the house filling with music! (Melissa is not taking due to total lack of interest and how much she is gone this month.)
The kids and I are looking forward to Friday. There's a "food truck round-up" across town and we are hoping to find it on Friday. We've seen several shows on the Food Network about food trucks. Hopefully, we'll find it...and hopefully, the food is as good as the TV host say it is.
While we are across town, we are will, also, be on the lookout for costumes the kids need for camp. Each night of camp there's a dress-up theme. This year it's America, Disney, Fan Night, Dress Your Best, and What You Want to be When You Grow-up. So, we'll be hitting a few thrift stores to see what we can find.
Sunday, June 8, 2014
Marking Off
I love it when I can mark people off my prayer list:
...A local friend recently had a double mastectomy, but thankfully, does NOT need chemo or radiation. She'll return to work in the next week or so.
...A dear friend living in the northwest, also, got a great doctor report when her breast biopsy came back normal. On top of this health scare, her husband had already moved to their new base while she and the kids finished out school. School is now over and he's with her to help her pack up the house and move across the country. Very good to know they are back together physically and not just in spirit.
I really looking forward to late August when I can mark off another family off my deployment list....they have these last few months of a year deployment... I remember those last few months of Drew being deployed to Iraq....you would think the last few months and/or weeks would go by fast, but they don't....I think they are worse than the first months. She seems to be holding up well, but I know how long summer came be....
Of course, it always seems that as soon as I mark someone off my list I hear of someone else needed extra prayers. This afternoon, I found out that a couple in our Sunday school class are in the final stages of a divorce. I was speechless!! I had no idea they were having troubles. Very sad. But explains why I haven't seen them together in class in awhile.
...A local friend recently had a double mastectomy, but thankfully, does NOT need chemo or radiation. She'll return to work in the next week or so.
...A dear friend living in the northwest, also, got a great doctor report when her breast biopsy came back normal. On top of this health scare, her husband had already moved to their new base while she and the kids finished out school. School is now over and he's with her to help her pack up the house and move across the country. Very good to know they are back together physically and not just in spirit.
I really looking forward to late August when I can mark off another family off my deployment list....they have these last few months of a year deployment... I remember those last few months of Drew being deployed to Iraq....you would think the last few months and/or weeks would go by fast, but they don't....I think they are worse than the first months. She seems to be holding up well, but I know how long summer came be....
Of course, it always seems that as soon as I mark someone off my list I hear of someone else needed extra prayers. This afternoon, I found out that a couple in our Sunday school class are in the final stages of a divorce. I was speechless!! I had no idea they were having troubles. Very sad. But explains why I haven't seen them together in class in awhile.
Tuesday, June 3, 2014
Diligent
Over the last week or so I have been using one of the reading plans in the You Version Bible app called "100 Descriptions of God". Yesterday one of the words was "diligent" based on Philippians 2:13. Not sure if I have ever thought of the Lord in that light before, but it has stuck with me. And since we are to conform to His imagine, I have to look at my life and see where I'm being diligent....or not...ouch!
While there are MANY areas I want to be more diligent in, one area I am trying to be better at - to be diligent! - is exercising. My neighbor, Alice, and I have been meeting at 7:30 most mornings to walk. Then afterwards, I use my small free weights. I am NOT very good at exercising....never have really liked it. But. This summer? I'm trying to be diligent.
While there are MANY areas I want to be more diligent in, one area I am trying to be better at - to be diligent! - is exercising. My neighbor, Alice, and I have been meeting at 7:30 most mornings to walk. Then afterwards, I use my small free weights. I am NOT very good at exercising....never have really liked it. But. This summer? I'm trying to be diligent.
Thursday, April 17, 2014
The Passion
One of my goals for this Lent Season was to have the kids watch the Passion of the Christ movie. Last Sunday night was the night.
Didn't go over so well....
William refused to watch it...but ended up watching it at school in his Bible lit class.
Melissa walked out within ten minutes.
Benjamin kept his eyes on his computer game.
And Drew & I forget all about the subtitles. And we did fast-forward through some of harder to watch parts.
I'm glad we watched it...even if it was hard to watch.
Friday, March 28, 2014
Ending Spring Break
Drew returned yesterday from his trip and the kids returned this afternoon from their mission trip, so my vacation from life is over. The days of quiet and reading are over and the washer and dryer are already running. All in all it was a good week. Over dinner we heard a few stories of the mission trip...I'm sure in the days ahead we'll hear more. I think they all are just excited to sleep in their own bed and sleep in!
Saturday, March 1, 2014
Our Week
Monday: I worked in my favorite place at the school: the office. It was a good day - not too crazy...busy, but not crazy like it was back in December. That night consisted of chores around the house & all the normal mom things.
Tuesday: I worked on the office again. The big difference on this day from Monday is I took Ben home just before lunch since he was feeling quite yucky. That night Drew & I attended the high school spring play. Once again, the kids did a great job! William & Melissa were in charge of the microphones. (Well, William was in charge & Melissa helped him.) I'm really glad the kids are enjoying this! It's a great program - the teacher in charge does such a wonderful job & knows how to deal with teenagers.
Wednesday: I spent the morning at the doctors with Benjamin. He had not been feeling well since Sunday. It was time to get him checked out. Also, the schools here really enforce the need for a doctor's note concerning any absents from school. The school nurse thought it could be fifth disease or strep. (Yes, what a wide range of options!) But the doctor decided it was a sinus infection so we're on antibodics and steroids. While we were on base, I made a quick dash through the commissary as I needed things for William's birthday dinner.
That night Drew & I went to church. The pastor is going through Ecclesiastes which I think is a very depressing book of the Bible. But this part we went through was encouraging. It's in chapter 5 & talked about it's okay to enjoy the money you earn. Lately it seems that I heard so much about the evil of money & how you should give away all your extra money. So much so I was starting to feel guilty if I bought any thing 'fun' or a 'want' not a need. It's nice it see a verse that says to enjoy your money as it's God's reward to you.
Thursday: Ben was still sick! Hate seeing any of my babies not feel well. While he laid on the couch, I went to Bible study, did chores, got some sewing done, took the big kids to the orthodontist....it was a busy and productive day. A good day other than Ben still felt bad!
Friday: Benjamin STILL not well!! Wondered if and when those meds would kick in! I was hoping he would feel well enough by mid-morning, but no. I was scheduled to work at 11:15, so instead of him going in with me, I changed his meds so and he slept the afternoon away. I decided the sudefed was not working and gave him Benadryl. Which is why he slept the afternoon away. But I think between that & the other meds finally kicking it, he started to feel better.
Friday night we celebrated William's 17th birthday. We had chicken teriyaki, sushi, tempura & cinnamon roll cake. Lots of good! Good food at that! We even pulled out our chopsticks. A nice quite evening - we don't do big birthdays. He got some money from a few family members, an English soccer jersey with his name on the back, and a wallet. His old wallet was a Velcro one. We thought he needed a 'man's' wallet. I think he was happy with it...especially the money tucked inside.
And that brings us today today, Saturday....chores, errands, and if one little boy wakes up well, we'll have a soccer game to yell at.
Just a normal week around here.
Thursday, February 27, 2014
New Song
Sunday during our church service we sang a song I wasn't very familiar with, but as I listened to the lyrics I fell in love with it! I leaned over to Drew and told him this is our story these last two years. In some ways its been a long two years, but neither Drew or I felt like we were alone...or lost. The song is called "Never Once", here's the lyrics: (here's a link a video)
Standing on this mountaintop
Looking just how far we’ve come
Knowing that for every step
You were with us
Kneeling on this battle ground
Seeing just how much You’ve done
Knowing every victory
Was Your power in us
Scars and struggles on the way
But with joy our hearts can say
Yes, our hearts can say
Never once did we ever walk alone
Never once did You leave us on our own
You are faithful, God, You are faithful
Kneeling on this battle ground
Seeing just how much You’ve done
Knowing every victory
Was Your power in us
Scars and struggles on the way
But with joy our hearts can say
Yes, our hearts can say
Never once did we ever walk alone
Never once did You leave us on our own
You are faithful, God, You are faithful
You are faithful, God, You are faithful
Scars and struggles on the way
But with joy our hearts can say
Never once did we ever walk alone
Carried by Your constant grace
Held within Your perfect peace
Never once, no, we never walk alone
Never once did we ever walk alone
Never once did You leave us on our own
You are faithful, God, You are faithful
Every step we are breathing in Your grace
Evermore we’ll be breathing out Your praise
You are faithful, God, You are faithful
You are faithful, God, You are faithful
You are faithful, God, You are faithful
You are faithful, God, You are faithful
Looking just how far we’ve come
Knowing that for every step
You were with us
Kneeling on this battle ground
Seeing just how much You’ve done
Knowing every victory
Was Your power in us
Scars and struggles on the way
But with joy our hearts can say
Yes, our hearts can say
Never once did we ever walk alone
Never once did You leave us on our own
You are faithful, God, You are faithful
Kneeling on this battle ground
Seeing just how much You’ve done
Knowing every victory
Was Your power in us
Scars and struggles on the way
But with joy our hearts can say
Yes, our hearts can say
Never once did we ever walk alone
Never once did You leave us on our own
You are faithful, God, You are faithful
You are faithful, God, You are faithful
Scars and struggles on the way
But with joy our hearts can say
Never once did we ever walk alone
Carried by Your constant grace
Held within Your perfect peace
Never once, no, we never walk alone
Never once did we ever walk alone
Never once did You leave us on our own
You are faithful, God, You are faithful
Every step we are breathing in Your grace
Evermore we’ll be breathing out Your praise
You are faithful, God, You are faithful
You are faithful, God, You are faithful
You are faithful, God, You are faithful
You are faithful, God, You are faithful
Thursday, February 20, 2014
My Radio Circle
I usually listen to K-love...until they start to talk TOO MUCH! Then I change the radio to the local Christian station...until they play a very, very old hymn in the opera style. Then I change the radio to AIR-1 which is a more upbeat - very contemporary heavy metal Christian station...until they play the heavy metal or rap Christian music. Then I change the radio station to a local country station...until they play a twangy/crying in your beer/cheating on your spouse song that reminds me of why I don't like country music. Then I change the radio station to K-love.....until they talk too much...
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