All About Me

I'm in a mood tonight, and I should be in bed, but I feel very talkative. So, I'll share about something someone I know very well: ME!

And since I like lists, I thought I'd do one of those 100 things about me lists. I don't know if I'll make it all the way to 100, but I'll give it a go. Oh, and I will be adding pictures as I go along.

1. I consider myself to be a very shy, painfully, awkwardly shy person. But I don't think people who know me would say the same thing.

2. Once you get to know me, I never shut up. I can talk and talk and talk and talk, well, you get the picture.

3. I love my hubby dearly, but he can annoy me more than anyone I know.

4. I can remember the first moment I ever laid eyes on Hub.

5. We worked together at JCPenney. He was sitting in the break room. He was wearing khaki pants, a light blue shirt, and a navy blue jacket.

6. I pursued him.

7. We were friends for several months before I finally got him to ask me out on a date.

8. We went to dinner at Applebee's and saw "The Santa Clause".

9. Why, yes, we started dating close to Christmas. Why do you ask?

10. I am a goofball.

11. I also don't lie. I am really a goofball. But a shy one.

12. I will act silly for my kids and close friends and some family, but I tend to keep more to myself when around large groups or people I don't know very well.

13. But I am willing, however, to make a complete idiot online. Just ask my APTCH friends.

14. They are my girls, my bff's. We met online when we were all pregnant. Me with Monkey; them, well, not with Monkey. With their little ones.

15. Back to Hub. We dated for several months and then moved in together.

16. Looking back now, not one of our better choices.

17. And in keeping with not a better choice, I should have put God up higher on this list.

18. I am a Jesus loving, literal Bible believing, creationist, daughter of the Most High King, so thankful to be saved, every day sinner, but most joyful to be washed by the blood Christian!!

19. That should have been number 1.

20. Hub and I lived together before we got married though we both knew it was wrong.

21. Did I mention I am a sinner?

22. And a goofball?

23. I bought my own engagement ring. Sorta.

24. I still worked at JCPenney. Diamonds were on sale. A flyer came in the mail. I told Hub that with my discount and the huge sale, it would be a good time to buy a diamond. So we bought one that night, April 18, 1997.

25. Then Hub went and asked my parents for my hand in marriage. He's old fashioned like that.

26. We got married about 6 months later, almost exactly three years after our first date. It was a beautiful day. The leaves had turned such a pretty color and there was snow on the mountaintops.

27. My father performed the ceremony.

28. Did I mention he's a Methodist minister? He graduated from seminary when I was 6 weeks old.

29. I'm not entirely sure he's really saved.

30. And there's too much history there for me to get into tonight.

31. After Hub and I were married, I decided what I wanted to be when I grew up.

32. I got a two year degree from the local community college.

33. Then decided I wanted to get my bachelor's degree.

34. So we moved back home for me. Or close to back home. Where all my parents lived at the time.

35. My mom and dad divorced when I was 2. Well, they split up then anyway. My mom was pregnant with my brother at the time.

36. I do not recommend growing up in a divorced household. There is not one good thing about it.

37. Even though I got good step-parents, I still wish I'd never had to have gone through that.

38. Hub came from a non-divorced home. It was a big hurdle for us to overcome. Me coming from a divorced home, that is.

39. I went to school to become an accountant.

40. Something my mother told me to do when I was 18.

41. I waited until I was 29.

42. I wish I had listened to my mother.

43. I listen to her much better now.

44. My first born son changed my life.

45. While trying to get pregnant with him, Hub and I decided that we had been idiots and quit running from God.

46. We started going to church together a few months before conceiving Dino.

47. No surprise to me now that we had been trying for almost 2 years, but just a short three months after we got back into church I got pregnant.

48. My fall semester of school started in August 2002 and I was almost 8 months pregnant. I really thought I could finish the semester.

49. I dropped out a week later.

50. Dino was born a week after that; 4 weeks early.

51. He had to stay in the NICU for 6 days. The day I left the hospital without my baby was one of the hardest days of my life.

52. The other two were the day I left Frog at the hospital after he was born and had to be in the NICU. And the day I had a miscarriage.

53. I took a semester off school when Dino was born and started back when he was 5 months old.

54. Hub and I decided to try to have another baby before I graduated so that when I went to get a job I wouldn't have to immediately go on maternity leave.

55. That expression "Know how to make God laugh? Make plans." or something like that. Well, it's so true.

56. By the time I was pregnant with Frog, when Dino was about 16 months old, I had decided to be a SAHM and homeschool.

57. But I finished school anyway.

58. I graduated in May, six months pregnant, with a Bachelor's degree in Accounting. I had a Distinction in Accounting and graduated Cum Laude.

59. Not too shabby.

60. I really love accounting.

61. If I could just go to school all the time, it would be a great career for me.

62. But being a mom is what God wanted me to be.

63. Hub was asked to resign from his teaching job a month after I graduated from school.

64. And for those keeping track, I was 7 months pregnant with Frog at the time.

65. God knows what He's doing even when we don't. Hub was never meant to be a teacher. Unfortunately it took him 8 years to figure it out.

66. We moved in with my mom and step-dad two days before Frog was born.

67. I do not recommend moving at almost 9 months pregnant.

68. Frog stopped moving the day he was born.

69. I panicked but the nurse on the helpline said everything was probably fine.

70. She was wrong.

71. But I listened to my intuition (God's actually) and went to the doctor's office anyway.

72. Frog ended up being fine, but he was sick, and needed to be born that day.

73. Loved being a mama to my two boys. But it was hard at first cause Hub had no job.

74. Took a ton of faith to not run out and find the first accounting job a newly graduated, high honors student could find.

75. But God had bigger plans. My job is to be a mother to my boys. And their teacher.

76. Hub eventually found work. Even now, still not what we would like, but he supports his family well.

77. Still wanted more babies even while living with my parents. Had a miscarriage, and then welcomed Monkey into our lives.

78. Did NOT enjoy the last month of Monkey's pregnancy.

79. Gained 20 pounds in 2 weeks and bought a one way ticket to the hospital.

80. False alarm. Not pre-eclampsia, but close, and closely watched for the rest of the pregnancy, which ended up being only two weeks,

81. Was contracting for a few days; went for a check-up; scheduled my c-section for two weeks later even though I told the doc (a newbie) that I was  might be in labor. She just smiled and told me I was 3 cm.

82. Had a NST and another doc said I needed to go to the hospital since I'd had 2 c-sections already and it looked like I might be in labor.

83. Went to the hospital and the doc who had examined me earlier and declared me not in labor, examined me again and said I was 5 cm and "in labor."

84. Even through the contractions, while waiting for Hub to get to the hospital, and being prepped for the section, I played Sudoku. I love numbers.

85. This is more fun than I thought it would be. But it's 12:30 and I should be in bed.

86. At 9 pounds 10 ounces, and three weeks early, Monkey was my biggest newborn.

87. But he's my tiniest little fella now. Dino and Frog are always at the top and off the charts for height and weight since they were around a year old. Monkey has consistently been 25% for weight and just now got to 50% for height.

88. Frog takes after me, dontcha think?

89. So, now we live in a three bedroom house with me, Hub, our three boys, and my parents. Oh, and I forgot to mention, my step-brother.

90. He lives in the shed.

91. No, really. It's a huge shed and one end has been made into a bedroom. Fully insulated and wired for electricity. We even have wireless so Bro can play his RPGs in his room.

92. We aren't your typical family.

93. Be we love each other and we love the Lord. Still praying that Bro will eventually see that he needs God, but he sees the love we have everyday.

94. Since I had kids, I have started to have a passion for Jesus and being the best witness I can.

95. I hope I'm successful.

96. But time and time again, God has made it clear that the number one mission field I work with, and my number one priority, is sitting right in my house.

97. Golly, I sure love these guys!!

98. And I love being a stay at home, homeschooling mom!!

99. And I do love to talk!

100. Whew! I'm exhausted!

Oh be careful little eyes what you see

I homeschool because I believe it is what God would have me do. I believe it deep in my soul; I can feel it in my heart. I look at the world around me and I know that I don't want my children to grow up and think that this is right and good. Our world is falling apart. There is little of value in it anymore.
I used to love to watch tv. I even got TV Guide in the mail. I had a subscription to People magazine. I stayed on top of the entertainment industry. But now my eyes are wide open, the veil has been lifted and I see it all for what it is: Satan's way to keep us from God.
Take a look at the top 10 tv shows right now:

1. American Idol- a show about singing. Just that seems fine, but when you watch it, you will find rude and mean-spirited judges, sexual innuendo that should make everyone blush, and an emphasis placed on fame as the be-all-end-all of life.
2. American Idol- it's on twice a week, and both times make the top 10! While this show isn't as bad as many, I still think it places value on the world and not on God.
3. Football- okay, not a big deal. But don't look too far under the surface; do not allow your children to use the players as role models.
4. Desperate Housewives- ugh. I've never seen the show, so I don't know that this statement is completely accurate, but I don't think there is anything of real value on this show.

Okay, I can't take any more. I just don't think tv is good for much these days. And for the record, the rest of the top 10 list is: Grey's Anatomy, Two and a Half Men, House, Dancing with the Stars, CSI, The OT.

I am just amazed that this stuff really makes it on to tv. There is nothing there. I find most of it morally bankrupt. I do not want my children to think it's okay to watch things of this nature. I find much of what there is to watch totally inappropriate for my children, for any children at all. And much of it is geared directly to children. I just keep going back to that old children's song, "Oh be careful little eyes what you see (ears what you hear), oh be careful little eyes what you see, for the Father up above is looking down with love, oh be careful little eyes what you see."

I picked up a movie one day for the boys to watch. We were going to be traveling to visit family and in the car for two days. I was hoping to keep them entertained with some new movies. So one I picked up was Happy Feet. All I can say is I am glad I decided to watch it before I let them watch it. The sexual innuendo is astounding. I could barely watch it and I was amazed that this is a movie marketed to kids. And I know that many people have no issue with it.

It is my job to keep my children focusing on God. If I allow them to watch much of the mainstream tv programs and movies, I am essentially telling them it's okay to behave that way. And as I grow closer to God, I am realizing that I am getting further and further away from the world. I do not find much of what there is out there appropriate. For me. For my children. For anyone.

And in public school, most kids have seen all of the top 10 tv shows I listed. They have seen many of the shows on tv that Hub and I do not allow our children to watch. They behave in ways we would never let our children behave. I just can't imagine letting my children believe it was okay.

Yes, I know this post was all over the place. I needed to write and this is where it went. Typically I do this. And even if it isn't understandable to others, it helps me.

*Okay, I found this blog after I finished this post. This is what I wanted to say. The blogger even used the same children's song I did. I wish I could get my thoughts out as well as she did, but I do intend to keep trying.*

A week (or two) in review

Week 2 of school down, and I think it's going well. We've sort of established a routine. School starts at 9. I am very lucky to have my mom. I start with Frog and she starts with Dino. Monkey runs around a bit. We begin with Language Arts stuff. Frog is done in short order and Dino needs more time. Each boy gets a bit of a break, depending on how long they take to finish their work, and how long each one fusses and complains before starting. (sigh) Then we have some math time.

I started Dino on Singapore Math this year. So far, I have really liked it. It has been review so far, but I like how the concepts are taught. It's an interesting way to look at math. I am a math person. When I was in middle school, they started offering algebra to students who seemed to need more depth in math. I think that's when I first realized that math is fun! Then in high school, I took geometry, algebra II, pre-calculus and calculus. And not once did I lose my interest in all things math. And when the sudoku puzzles came on the scene, I was definitely hooked.

Dino seems to have my talent for math, but he doesn't really like it yet. But I feel like he will do very well. And parents know best after all, don't they? (wink) My mother told me that I should go to school for accounting way back when I was 18 and I laughed. It only took me until I was 25 to realize she was right. And I was 33 by the time I finally graduated from college with an accounting degree. Really wish I would've listened to her sooner. Not that it matters now. I wouldn't change where I am now for anything!

So, back to school. After math, we have a snack break, which is the boys favorite time. Then comes some history. I am thrilled with Sonlight's books on history. I like that the focus is on world history. Dino, and even Frog to some extent, have an amazing grasp on the fact that we here in the US are not alone in this world. We discuss missionarys quite a bit, too, so the boys are able to see that though we live here, the entire world is our mission field. And they love to learn more about other cultures. I am really pleased with the fact that they are enjoying history.

Science is another big hit with them as well. But who doesn't love to learn about God's beautiful creations? We love to go outside and explore and find creepy crawlies and butterflies, and especially praying manti mantis' mantises (?).

Then, let's see, Bible reading brings us up to nap time. Each of the boys reads a bit from the Bible and they each have a memory verse a week. Frog really enjoys this just about the most. He loves to read the Bible. And yes, that makes me so happy!

This schedule leaves out a lot, but there are little things here and there that just fit into one of the other categories. Like when Dino reads from one of his readers. Right now, he's reading books set in the 1800's in America. So even though our history is focused on the world, while learning to read, Dino is also learning about US history. And I love listening to him read. I am amazed that he seems to have picked it up so quickly but my mother assures me that most kids do once they get going, and that my child isn't spectacular at this. But I know that he really is. ;) I am also amazed that I taught him to read. Me!!!! And I am amazed that more people don't think they can homeschool. It's not really all that difficult. If you can find a program that works for you, it's not hard. And I get to watch my children's faces light up when they learn something new. It's a wonderful feeling!

We have also picked back up our habit of reading in the evening. Right now, we are reading "Red Sails to Capri" and Dino begs for "just one more chapter" every night. I love that they are learning to love reading. Reading opens the doors for so much and I truly want them to read with a passion.

So, I really only have one more thing to work on to make it all go smoother, I need to get to bed earlier! And, I haven't acomplished that tonight, but I don't have to teach tomorrow either! But I am working on it. So, with that, goodnight!

Is the Bible just a good book?

Due to some discussions I have been reading lately here in internetland, I have been thinking a lot about what it means to be a Christian. I believe that first, a person must believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and that He died for their sins and rose again. And they must accept Him into their heart and truly desire a relationship with Him.

Having a relationship with Jesus is the tricky part. He asks us to follow Him and to try to live as He did. And while it is actually impossible to live exactly as Jesus did, as a Christian, I strive to do so daily. The only way I can even try to live like Him is to follow His Word. God loved me so much that He wrote the Bible (through men) just so I could have something that told me how to live a Christ-like life. Without it, I would be stumbling around in this dark world, just trying to live a good life. But the Bible is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. Psalm 119:105 The Bible shows me the way.

So it is with much confusion that I wonder why so many call themselves Christian and yet say that the Bible is just a good book. I've heard people say that it was a book written by men who wanted to control people. And some of these same people will then call themselves a Christian. I even once read online a person saying that homeschooling is a bad idea. He went on to say that he and his wife were Christians but they didn't "allow that to pervade every part" of their lives. I was so dumbstruck by that statement. I can't see how you can truly be a Christian without letting God "pervade" every part of your life. And I also don't see how someone can be a Christian without believing that the Bible is the Word of God. After all, all Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Not only is the Bible profitable (yielding advantageous returns or results) for doctrine (a principle in a branch of knowledge or system of belief), for reproof (criticism for a fault, rebuke), for correction (a bringing into conformity with a standard), and for instruction in righteousness (acting in accord with divine or moral law : free from guilt or sin) but it is also given by inspiration (a divine influence or action on a person believed to qualify him or her to receive and communicate sacred revelation)* of God.
Peter also has this to say about the Bible:
And so we have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts; knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit. 2 Peter 1:19-21

It seems very clear that the Bible is the Word of God; that He decided what was to be written and He chose who it would be that wrote it. I mean "holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit." They didn't speak on their own; the Holy Spirit spoke through them.
If I believe that God created the entire universe, why is it such a stretch to believe that He also was able to make sure that only what He wanted was included in the Bible? He is the great I AM. How could He not be powerful enough to ensure the rightness of the Bible?

Another thought that keeps coming to me is that so many people say the Bible is full of "stories" that teach morality. Well, so is Aesop's Fables and I don't see people running around calling themselves an Aesopian. There are tons of good books that teach morality. But the Bible isn't one of them. The Bible teaches us how to live as God wants us to live. How God, the creator of the universe, the One who put this whole thing we call life into motion, how He wants us to live. And if He says something is a sin, you'd better believe it's a sin. There will come a day when we will be standing face to face with Him and have to explain why we didn't believe what He said. How many people won't have a good answer for that?

Ultimately, we can look directly to Jesus Christ, the One who gave us the name Christian. He relied on the Bible as the Word of God. Jesus quoted scripture time and time again. If He relied on it and used it to show faithful living, how can we doubt its authenticity?


* all definitions from Merriam-Webster

School Days

Well, today was day two of the new school years around these parts. And if I didn't have a cold, I think it would be going better. And if I weren't wrapping presents and making a cake, I think things would be going better. Dino's birthday is tomorrow and we're having his special dinner (pizza, which I am so thankful for since it means that I don't have to cook) and cake and presents tonight. And I'm tired.

But really, school is going well. It's an adjustment this year. Dino is in 2nd grade and Frog has started Kindergarten. Last year, we were much more informal. I was able to fit Dino's work in here and there. But now, his is much more detailed and Frog needs much more attention than last year. Which all leaves Monkey out in the cold. He is not happy. But he will adjust, we all will, and we'll find a routine that suits us all.

One thing that hindered our progress today was that we forgot the most important thing of all. We forgot to pray this morning before we started. In only two days of school, I have already learned the most important lesson: Everything works better when started in prayer.

*Update*

I just finished the cake.


Can you guess what Dino wants to be when he grows up? Or why his nickname here is Dino?

Sigh

Well, once again I seem to be at a crossroads. I am really trying to figure out what I want to do with this blog. I would love to think that I could reach one person who doesn't know the Lord. But, alas, I do not think it is meant to be. I mean, very few people read it anyway. And most of them (okay, all 2 of them) are close friends of mine.
So, then I wonder if I even need to keep it. I know that I do. I feel it deep down, this need to have a blog, to type things and share with others. I know that God does have a purpose for it, but I don't know what it is yet. I do know though, that part of the purpose is tied up in me actually, oh, I don't know, blogging. Heh.
That is my goal, to actually blog more than once a month. I don't know when I will achieve that goal, but there you have it.
I tidied up a bit around here tonight and blogged this bit of nothing. And tomorrow I have decided I will blog a bit more. It will happen; something will happen. I just know it.

Second best

Dino said I was the second best mom in the world. We won't discuss the fact that I was making oatmeal chocolate cookies at the time.
I did ask him who was the best mom, ya know, cause I was curious. He thought for a minute and said "Mary."
me: "Mary?"
Dino: "Yeah. Mary." dramatic sigh "Jesus' mom."
Ahhh, that Mary. I guess it's okay that I'm only the second best mom in the world since I'm second to Jesus' mom.

Simply

I received an email from a dear friend a few days ago. I wanted to share it here. It simply tells of how awesome our God is.

Dear Prayer Warriors,

I have began many emails today, looking for the right words to share the latest in the update of cancer attack. And as AWESOME and BIG and FAITHFUL our God is, I have realized today that when the enemy attacks us with complexity, He is just SIMPLY GOD!

So, forgive me for this SIMPLE report that is yet AWESOME and BIG and FAITHFUL.

God has SIMPLY stopped the twitch aka sjorning seizures.

God has SIMPLY stopped the headaches I have suffered from since 2001.

God has SIMPLY restored my blood pressure to a normal range without the use of medicine.

God has SIMPLY stopped the daily and often nose bleeds.

God has SIMPLY stopped the daily and debilitating leg cramps.

God has SIMPLY restored my blood sugar levels to a normal range without the use of insulin.

God has SIMPLY restored my neurogenic bladder to a normal 'I know when I need to go pee' state.

God has SIMPLY caused 19 pounds to fall off my body practically overnight without any medicines or change of diet.

AND, God has SIMPLY removed from the MRI scan and doctors report the 13 oligodendroastrocytoma tumors from my brain and brain stem. They are just SIMPLY gone.

He is just SIMPLY MIRACULOUS and I have the scans for confirmation!

Thank you all for praying with us and EXPECTING THIS MIRACLE!

We Love You and Bless You!


And I feel extremely blessed and humbled that God saw fit to allow me to witness this miracle. Words cannot adequately describe how simply wonderful and marvelous He is.

Wordless Wednesday (a tiny bit early)

I love these boys!!!

Wordless Wednesday

Who me?

Frogs

I have this desire to write absolutely brilliant, funny, witty, thought-provoking posts like so many others I read here in the blogsphere.

Then I remember that I am me.

So, I will dazzle my imaginary world with the usual stuff that I have rolling around in my head. And feel better for having done so.

Today was a nice day. Got some menu planning done, which is always something I push waaaaay to the end of the to-do list. But we got some fresh veggies and I didn't want them to go bad like they seem to so often around here. So later in the week, they will be put to good use.

We also got some more work done on our floors. We are ripping up carpet and laying down laminate flooring. What has been finished so far looks wonderful. I am very glad to be done with carpet. When we pulled it up, I was appalled at the amount of dirt that was underneath. Dirt that we breathe in every day when we walk on the carpet. Dirt that will be ever-so-much easier to clean up from wood floors than carpet. I just wish we were already done. It's hard to live in a house where your living room furniture is in the kitchen and/or vice versa. But how wonderful it will be when it's done. Ahhhhhhh......

The best part of the day today was this:

We went outside after supper tonight and just had some fun. And there were these teeny, tiny frogs outside. I happened to look down when I was in the driveway and noticed something on the gravel. I picked it up and showed the boys. Then I went inside and got my camera. It took a couple of pictures, cause it's so darn cute, and then let it go in the clover grass.

That's when I noticed there were dozens of them in the yard. Every time I saw the grass move, I would look and spot another one. And another, and another, and another, well, you get it. Then the boys started to catch them.



They had a marvelous time. Everywhere you looked, there were frogs. So much fun!

Except of course, the fact that Monkey kept squishing them.



He really enjoyed it, though.
I love being able to be with the boys all the time. I love that I can go outside with them and enjoy God's wonderful creation. I love that we can pick up frogs and play and have fun and just be able to enjoy life, together.
I imagine that it would be so much different if I had to go to work every day, all day long. There would be so much I missed. I love that I get to stay home with my children, to teach them, to help guide them to find the men they will be someday.
That reminds me of a saying I have on a cross in my room. Children are not a vessel to be filled, but a lamp to be lit.
And I like the fact that I am the one to light that lamp, er, those lamps. I am so very blessed to have three faithful, fanciful, fast, fearless, feisty, fantastic sons, ones who absolutely adore frogs!!!!
And I adore them!

Babies, baseball, boxes, boys, and bunnies, oh, and chickens!

So, things have been crazy here this week. I got a new niece. And got to have her brother and sisters visit for a couple of days. They came on Sunday and left on Tuesday. On Monday, one of the girls went with my mom to feed chickens at a neighbors house. (This is something we do every day. We get most of the eggs and our neighbors get to not have to worry about feeding the chickens. Works well!) Mom and S are at the coop and Hub and I are getting ready to go to Dino's last baseball game of the season. His team finished second in regular season and they were playing the final end-of-season tournament game.

Mom was gone in plenty of time to feed the chickens and come home before we had to leave for the game. But she didn't come back. Hub ended up leaving and I was still home with the remaining four children. Mom didn't show and didn't show and I got worried. And truthfully, a bit peeved. I was imagining missing the last game and feeling sorry for myself. But she finally got home and my niece was filthy! And a bit upset. She had locked mom in the coop and mom was stuck for over an hour! The neighbors finally came home and heard mom beating pans together. Funny story we'll share in our family forever, but it doesn't seem to come off so funny here. Oh well.

So that was the fun of Monday. Tuesday, the cousins left and then I got some boxes in the mail. Box Day!!!!! I have been looking forward to this for months! Ever since I decided to go back to Sonlight, I have been looking forward to getting some new stuff. It was so fun to open the boxes and look at all the books. Oh my, if you are a book lover like I am, it was delightful!! Even the boys loved it.

Before I could even get a good look, they were right in the boxes.

One book after another was picked up and oohed and aahed over.

Until finally, one was picked to look at more closely.

I truly hope that I am raising some life-long readers here. I love to read and I think it will be wonderful if my three little critters will be the same.

I was thrilled that they were so happy to get some new books, even "school" books. We even had to start reading Charlotte's Web right away.

One of my favorite times is our evening reading sessions. We started when Dino was about five. We have read some wonderful books. This is one of the best things about Sonlight for me. It gives me an excuse, and a reading list, so I can sit down every night and snuggle and read to the boys. It's something I will treasure always.

And to bring this all over the place post home, I will talk about the bunny. (In my head, I am singing a VeggieTales song right about now. And now, just cause it's so funny to me, I have to link to it. VeggieTales ) (and boy, I really wish I knew how to embed this video in my post...)

We found a baby rabbit outside today. Don't know if it will live, but we are giving it a try. So far, things are looking good. We got him (don't know if it's really male, but we call him him) to eat good for us this evening. It would be wonderful if he made it and we could set him free in a few weeks, but we'll see. It has made me ready to get the boys a pet of some kind, other than our outdoor cat. Something small, in a cage, a hamster, guinea pig, or something. We'll see.

But the bunny, well, he's adorable!

Yikes!

Well, ahem, it seems as if I once again have forgotten that I actually have a blog.
Silly me.

I have a lot of stuff floating around in my head, but it is stuff that must wait for another post.

I am excited about homeschool next year. I just ordered all our books. I spent a lot of moolah, but I added to what I had from last year and purchased everything for second grade. So, now I am set for K, 1st and 2nd for all three boys. And I cannot wait for everything to arrive! I am so excited!!
(I did order everything from Sonlight again this year. A surperb product line and wonderful company!)

And before I forget, I have gotten some comments to posts I've made. Not many, but every single one has made such a difference to me. I am too tired right now to link to everyone who has commented, but believe me when I say I am touched that anyone takes the time to comment. It means a lot.

And now, without saying nearly as much as I want, I must go to bed before my head drops here on the desk.


*Update* Oh my goodness!! I just ordered my Sonlight materials last night, late, and they sent an email this afternoon telling me that it has been shipped!! I can't believe it! Talk about great customer service! Now I can't wait until Wednesday......**

Oh Happy Day! Now times two!

I am over the moon right now!! There's a new baby to love in this world!
A dear friend just called and her second daughter was born late last night.
What a great birthday present for me!
I'm so excited for the entire family.

Dear sweet baby girl,
I am so glad to know that you are here and that you arrived safely. It has been my great privilege to know your mother and be able to walk with her through the journey of you. You are a very loved little girl. I am looking forward to getting to know you over the years. Happy birthday little one!!
Love you tremendously,
Me


*** And now, I am tickled pink (and blue) again!! On Friday, another friend had her family get even larger. She welcomed twins, a boy and a girl. And as with the other sweet girl, I am so looking forward to getting to know these two little ones. I have been blessed to know their mother and can't wait to watch them grow! ***

What I really think about it...

I am tired of reading so much hatred against Christians. And I am tired of trying to fit into this world that seems to dislike me just for my beliefs. My first priority in this life is to live it as Christ would have me live it. And I have the manual He wanted me to use. It's a manual that isn't always easy to interpret, and many interpret it differently than I do. Some, many, interpret it wrong. I even do sometimes.
I have been struggling with how to live in this world and survive with others who don't share my beliefs. And I find myself losing sleep over the fact that others just don't "see" that I am not a bad person, but that I am trying to live as God wants me to. I was in the car and heard someone give a verse. And when I looked it up, a light bulb went off.

Galatians 1:10 Now am I trying to win the favor of men, or of God? Do I seek to please men? If I were still seeking popularity with men, I should not be a bond servant of Christ.

Wow! Guess if I had been paying more attention to what the bible had to say, God wouldn't have had to take me behind the woodshed!

I am a Christian; I believe that the bible is the inspired word of God and as such, every single word in it is true! Even when I don't understand why, it is still true. And to claim to be a Christian and not uphold the scripture would be a lie.
I don't get why some things are considered sin. There are a lot of things I have done, every single day, that are considered sins. But I am trying to learn and be aware and do my best not to commit those sins over and over again. Which is why, as a Christian, I cannot condone anyone doing anything that is a sin. While it is not my place to judge what is in someones heart, I can read what the bible has to say about something and decide how God would have me act.

For example, (and this is just an example, one that seems to be everywhere these days) In the bible, God is very clear about sexual immorality:
1 Corinthians 6:9-10 Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God.
And I believe that. So I cannot do anything that might condone that kind of behavior. Does it mean that I haven't committed those sins? No. I have. But because I am washed in the blood of the Lamb, I have asked for forgiveness and am now forgiven. If I continue to live in the sin, I will not be forgiven. But I cannot do anything that might cause another to fall into that sin. So, just from a worldly view, when things like politics come into play, I have to vote with my faith. It cannot be separated from who I am. If a political leader wants to legislate adultery, I would have to vote that it is a sin, and should be a crime. Maybe not punishable, but at least, if there was a situation where two people had an issue, the one who was not the adulterer should be given a leg up. The same goes for homosexuality. I know that people who are homosexuals can be wonderful, loving people; good parents; good friends; productive members of society. But God says that homosexuality is wrong. And for me to say that it's okay would be like slapping Him in the face. In this world, it would be easy for me to turn my head and act like nothing is a big deal. But it is to God.
I don't always get it but it's hard to argue with the bible.

I also want to add one more scripture.
Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

Regardless of what may be acceptable to the world, if something isn't acceptable to God, I am against it. I have to be. I couldn't live with myself if I weren't.

He's Alive!

God With Us – Mercy Me
Who are we, that You would be mindful of us?
What do You see, that's worth looking our way?
We are free, in ways that we never should be.
Sweet release, from the grip of these chains.
Like hinges straining from the weight, my heart no longer can keep from singing.

All that is within me cries.
For You alone be glorified Emmanuel, God with us.
My heart sings a brand new song.
The debt is paid these chains are gone.
Emmanuel, God with us.

Lord You know, our hearts don't deserve Your glory.
Still You show, a love we cannot afford.
Like hinges straining from the weight, my heart no longer can keep from singing.

All that is within me cries.
For You alone be glorified Emmanuel, God with us.
My heart sings a brand new song.
The debt is paid these chains are gone.
Emmanuel, God with us.

Such a tiny offering, compared to Calvary, nevertheless we lay it at your feet.
Such a tiny offering, compared to Calvary, nevertheless we lay this at your feet.

All that is within me cries.
For You alone be glorified Emmanuel, God with us.
My heart sings a brand new song.
My debt is paid these chains are gone.
Emmanuel, God with us.


Wow! I can not ever say enough to begin to compare to what God has already given me through His son, Jesus. Words won't ever be enough. I can praise Him all my days, and live my life for Him.

Lord, all that I am, I give to You. I want to serve You in whatever way You want me to; to praise You every day; to talk to You without ceasing; to love You with all that I am.

Filed under general

Just felt like doing a general update kinda thing. Or rather, just felt the need to clear my head.

My little monkey has been a bit under the weather lately. He has been extremely clingy and mommy-oriented. And while I am loving all the extra cuddle time, the whining and throwing monster temper tantrums has gotten a bit much. Today, I brought him in from the porch and he threw himself on the floor, kicking, flailing, screaming at the top of his lungs, and generally pitching the biggest tantrum I have ever personally experienced from one of my children. It was so not fun. I ended up holding him in my lap to calm him down. I begged, I pleaded, I sang, I tried everything I could think of to get him to stop (for the love of all that is right in the world, and my ears, oh my goodness, the screaming was loud) except the one thing I knew would work- taking him back outside. I refused to give in; I do have my standards after all.

But finally, when it occurred to me to sing a different song, he quieted. The song that worked for the king of all tantrum throwers? Larry Boy. Not the original theme song, but the one from the Bad Apple. It used to be Monkey's favorite movie. Now, he only likes the song. I had forgotten exactly how much. Once I started singing, only a few words in, he got completely still. It took singing it four times through before he was finally calm enough to actually get off my lap.

And then, after bath, he fell asleep in my arms, almost an hour before bedtime. Sigh, I guess I didn't realize how under the weather he's been feeling.

Isn't he precious?

Then, there's my stubborn middle son, Frog. Last night, I told him to go take a bath, and he said he wanted to take a shower. But I told him I already had the bath water so it was a bath night. He started crying like his world was falling apart. I took his clothes off and put him in the tub. Then I went and got my mother because I was at the end of my rope with him. He's really hit a stage of "I want to be in charge" and I don't like it so much. But then, he can be so very sweet. He gives me kisses and cuddles all the time. He is definitely my touchy-feely boy. He has a blanket, oh my, is it worn. But he loves it. That and his thumb. I'm trying to get better about not letting those two out of the bedroom. So far, I'm not winning. I'm thinking about trying one of those ointments that you put on the thumb that tastes bad, but I think Frog is too hard-headed. He'd probably just go wash it off.

He started soccer a few weeks ago. The first practice, he sat on the ground, leaning on Hub for the first half of practice. The second practice, my mom took him. She got her first taste of being the weird homeschooler. One of the moms was talking to her and school came up. Mom said we homeschooled, and she said that the other woman didn't reply and walked off. Niiiice.

Mom said he was slow to warm up to practicing that time, too. So, when he had his first game last Saturday, I wondered whether he would actually play. Imagine my surprise (and delight) when he turned out to be a ringer. This is the first time he has played any sports, and he played like he had been doing it all his 4 1/2 years. He scored two goals in the first 3 minutes of the game! He had a blast! Hub and I aren't sports people, so we wondered what the boys would be like in that respect. Dino is probably going to be like his parents but the other two, not so much. In any case, I am just glad Frog enjoyed himself.

We have been doing some schoolwork here and there. I have a pre-K curriculum for him from Sonlight. He likes it. We don't do it on a daily basis. Sometimes, we do several days at once, sometimes, we go a few weeks without doing anything. But he is eager to learn right now, though a perfectionist. He will sit and work on writing the alphabet and if a letter isn't perfect, he will try again and again. When he was first learning to write his name, he would get so frustrated because he couldn't make the S come out the way he wanted. Even now, the S is backwards, but he has learned to let that one slide.

And I am learning to let some things slide, too. I keep comparing Frog to Dino. Logically, I know they are different, but I keep saying (to myself and Hub) Dino could/couldn't do this at this age. I do it more with the school work because I remember doing some of the same worksheets with Dino and he was not as physically coordinated at this stage. And I am realizing even more that they are different and Monkey is, too, and that as their teacher (and especially as their mom) I have to remember and appreciate their differences, and learn what their strengths and weaknesses are in order to help them. I'm getting there.

Then there's my Dino. Oh my, how much that boy is growing up. And he's getting so independent. He wants to do so much for himself. Not always things I want him doing for himself, but wow! The fact that he wants to is so amazing! The thing that makes me nuts right now is going to the bathroom (in public) by himself. Ahhhhh!!!!! I only let him at church, and even then, I am right there. I'm not sure at what age I will feel like it's safe for him to go into a mens room all alone, (8, 10, 12, never?) but I don't think 6 is old enough. It is hard that he looks much older than six, but I still think of him as my little baby.

And goodness, he's not a baby anymore! Next week, he'll be taking his first year-end school test. Legally, I haven't even had to register as a homeschooler (will do that this summer), but I wanted to go ahead and test him to just see where we are. At the moment, I can't remember which tests we're using. A friend, who is our homeschool group's unofficial leader, ordered the tests and will be administering Dino's. I'm nervous for him, but I know that he will be fine. He is one smart little fella. I talked to a friend who teaches first grade in one of the local schools. From what she said, he is right on track, if not a bit ahead in some areas. Being that I am so new to homeschooling, I have been worried that I am not doing everything I need to, but I am starting to realize that sometimes, I just have to chill out. I need to trust that I am doing it right. I trust that God has let us know that this is the right decision for our family, so I have to trust that He knows I can do it.

And Dino is so bright! He wanted to read to us tonight. He got out his Bible Reader and went to the Resurrection story. (something we have not read yet) He didn't know every single word, but he has an amazing ability to get a word using context. Tonight, he read "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you." We had never gone over receive and he got it anyway, first time!

I'm telling you, I have three jenious jenius genious genius sons!!!

Know One God

Ever heard of Wordle? It's really neat. You put in a lot of words and it gives you a word cloud. I can sit for quite awhile just messing. Tonight, I put in my blog url and got this word cloud:





I was struck with the biggest three words and how they jumped out at me.

Know One God

How awesome is that? I couldn't have planned it better if I tried. And I have tried before with wordle. ;)

Had to play some more, cause I am a bit picky. The first wordle wasn't quite right. This one is a bit better.

Someday

Someday soon, I am going to get around to a few more posts I have brewing in my head. One on homeschooling; one on having faith in the tough times; one on changing the way I react to something rather than expecting the other person to change; you know, just some light and easy topics!
Right now, I'm just so stinkin' excited that the new Sonlight catalog is out, and on its way to me!!!
I am thinking about switching back, after a year away, and now that I've almost 100% made up my mind, I can't wait to get the catalog so I can make my plans! And let me tell you, there is nothing like opening up a box with new curriculum and a bunch of books!!!!!! I wish I could order stuff right now! I love books!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Seriously!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm getting nuts just thinking about it!!!!!
I haven't read as much to the boys this year. Last year, when Dino was in kindergarten, we read almost every night before bed. There were some awesome read-alouds with Sonlight's CoreK curriculum. And we picked out some extra books ourselves as well. But this year, since it wasn't laid out for me very specifically with the other program we picked, I wasn't as disciplined. And knowing that, I have to switch back. I love Sonlight and because I had such a good experience with Pre-K and K, I can't see any good reasons not to use it. Hub and I talked and agreed that since the main reason we even switched for first grade was the money, it wasn't worth it to not switch back.
Oh, I'm talking in circles. I just wish I could convey how exciting it is to me to envision that big box of books I'll be getting once I place my order. Do you know how much I love to read? And how much I love a new book? Can you tell??????!!!!!?????
Have I used enough exclamation points in this post??
And did I just do the homeschooling post I was talking about in the first paragraph?
Ummm, yeah. And I should really be in bed since it is after midnight, and I am making no sense anymore!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Remembering Sam

A dear friend has gone through something that I wish no mother ever had to, not once, but twice. And the day that she lost her first beautiful little one, Sam, is fast approaching.

I find myself wishing I could do something, find some way to make it easier for her. But I don't know what. I will still, always, pray. There's not much more I can do.

Back when her second little one was lost, (before I knew his name was Benjamin), I was praying one day while Dino was doing schoolwork. I took a pen and wrote on our dry erase board. In my way, I felt the need to see the names of those little ones, to remind myself that they will always be remembered.

And in this second one, I noticed that even though I had erased their names, I could still see them. And I was like, wow! That's what it's like! Though they were both here for only a short time, they are still here, remembered in our hearts.

And when I think of my friend, my heart flips and flops. I cannot begin to fathom the pain that she must feel, knowing that she will never get to hold Sam or Benjamin this side of heaven. And again, all I can do is pray.

I did read something in the bible that really spoke to me. From The Message Bible,

Psalm 42:9-11 Sometimes I ask God, my rock-solid God, "Why did you let me down? Why am I walking around in tears, harassed by enemies?" They're out for the kill, these tormentors with their obscenities, taunting day after day, "Where is this God of yours?" Why are you down in the dumps, dear soul? Why are you crying the blues? Fix my eyes on God— soon I'll be praising again. He puts a smile on my face. He's my God.

And I think, that's it. Even in my darkest hour, the hardest stretch of road I face, as a believer, I know that soon I'll be praising again. And I know that you will, too, Mrs.B.

Words

I'm not sure what I want to say tonight; I just feel the need to say something. The more I cruise around online these days, the more I realize I am not the "norm" anymore. I'm a nutjob, a freak, a hater, in a cult, a sheep, and not very smart. Well, at least from the world's viewpoint.
The closer I get to God, the more I learn to lean on Him, the more satisfied and fulfilled I become with my life, the more it seems that the world thinks less of me.
I struggle with this. For most of my life, I wanted to fit in, to be one of the in crowd, to have everyone like me. So, now, when so many don't like anything that I stand for, it is odd. I am not actually bothered by not being one of the group anymore. I don't want to be like them. But now, my focus has shifted to sorrow; I am grieved by the fact that there are so many lost people in the world. And they truly don't realize that they are.
Me? Well, I may not always know exactly where I am at every single moment, but I sure know where I'm going. I know whose I am!! And I am no longer ashamed of who I am. I am a daughter of the King, a joint-heir to the throne, a literal Bible believing, Spirit-filled, lover of Jesus!
I believe in God, not a god, the God, the one true God, creator of all.

Rest in His Shadow

I have spent much of my day today in prayer. Stellan has been in my mind and on my heart all day. I wish there was more I could do, but I know that prayer is what is needed right now, and wow, can prayer work wonders!


Here is my attempt at showing my heart. A picture for Stellan and his MckMama:

I am praying... tonight, tomorrow, next week, next month, as long as is necessary.

Stellan

I know that very few people ever read my blog, but I need to get this down. Prayers are needed for Stellan, a sweet little baby who is very sick right now. His MckMama has a way with words and I have been reading her blog for quite some time now.

God is mighty and He is listening.

I have been praying for Stellan all day today, and now, I want to add this prayer for his mom.

I am claiming Psalm 91 for her and her family.

1 He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High

Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

2 I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress;

My God, in Him I will trust.”

3 Surely He shall deliver you from the snare of the fowler

And from the perilous pestilence.

4 He shall cover you with His feathers,

And under His wings you shall take refuge;

His truth shall be your shield and buckler.

5 You shall not be afraid of the terror by night,

Nor of the arrow that flies by day,

6 Nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness,

Nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday.

7 A thousand may fall at your side,

And ten thousand at your right hand;

But it shall not come near you.

8 Only with your eyes shall you look,

And see the reward of the wicked.

9 Because you have made the LORD, who is my refuge,

Even the Most High, your dwelling place,

10 No evil shall befall you,

Nor shall any plague come near your dwelling;

11 For He shall give His angels charge over you,
To keep you in all your ways.

12 In their hands they shall bear you up,

Lest you dash your foot against a stone.

13 You shall tread upon the lion and the cobra,

The young lion and the serpent you shall trample underfoot.

14 “Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him;

I will set him on high, because he has known My name.

15 He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him;

I will be with him in trouble;

I will deliver him and honor him.

16 With long life I will satisfy him,

And show him My salvation.”

And over at Knowing Norrah Stellan's name gallery is back up and running. I sent a picture to MckMama back last summer for Stellan, to let her know I was praying.

There is power in prayer.

Why?

I am so sad. I just read a post about adoption in the blogsphere. And I am crushed.
Why do so many people think it's okay to have an abortion? Seriously. Why?
The post I read was about a woman who had given up a child and had had an abortion as well. She said that the abortion was much easier. And then proceeded to go on about how hard adoption is.
Okay, I get it. Truly. I can't imagine the pain of having to give up a child for adoption. I cannot ever imagine how truly heart wrenching it must be. I'm not stupid. I know, too, that adoptees don't have it easy.
And I wish I had some magic pill that made it easy all round. But I don't.
I do think that people should think before they speak. And yes, I can see that people saying "just put the baby up for adoption" have no idea what they are talking about. It can't be an easy fix.
And my heart breaks for any woman who is ever put in a position where she has to consider adoption, abortion, or how on earth she will be able to keep and raise a child. I've never been pregnant when I wasn't trying to be pregnant, so I can't really get what it must be like.
But why, why does that make it okay to kill a baby?
Never once has anyone been promised an easy life. There are always going to be choices in life that will affect your life forever. I'm not trying to say that one persons pain and grief are any less than anothers. But I have never understood the argument that because one person may have to live with an awful reality (like giving up a child for adoption) another persons life should have to end.

I know, I know, not everyone believes that an unborn child is a person. But I can't even stomach that idea right now. So I'll save that discussion for another day.

And I really get mad when I hear that a pro-life person isn't concerned with the mother, just the baby. The person who wrote the post basically said that all pro-lifers cared about was forcing a woman to give birth. And that after that, they didn't care about the baby or the mother.
I don't know what pro-lifers this woman has met, but that doesn't sound like any I know.
I know many, many women who have put their hearts on the line and have reached out to other women. I know many people (men and women) who have helped out at crisis pregnancy centers, before and yes, even after the birth. I have also known many people who have adopted children, who have helped others adopt, who generally care about other people and just help out any way they can.
I, myself, am involved with a group of women and we are trying to get a ministry started. It is a ministry that we hope will involve all kinds of people but the first leg of our journey is to minister to women and girls who find themselves pregnant and don't want to be. We want to give them true choices and offer help and guidance and hope.

I wish I were a more eloquent writer so that I could really get my point across. But this will have to suffice.
I care; I care about women; I care about babies; I care about children; I care about people. And I cannot help but feel pain about women justifying pro-choice. It's just not a reasonable choice.

Just a moment...

I only have a minute, it's late and I must sleep.
But I am trying to make this blog something. I really want to write down what is going on in my life. And I keep pushing it to the side.

But so much is going on here right now.
My mother in law passed away on February 10. Thank God that Hub was able to be there with her. We got home over the weekend, and Hub went back to work on Monday, the 16th, only to be laid off. Niiiiice.

We've dealt with sickness since then, and just plain old bummed out feelings. And then, tonight, Hub got a call that his uncle, his mom's last sibling, died today. Hard to take it all in.

God is taking care of us; we are, as always, in the palm of His hand. Things will be okay. We are loved.