I am a homeschooling mom. I have very strong opinions about homeschooling. And I am going to share some of those opinions. So fasten your seat belts and get ready!
I watched a video last week. It knocked my socks off!! It's by Voddie Baucham and it's titled "The Children of Caesar: The State of American Education". My absolute favorite line from it was "If we continue to send our children to Caesar for their education, we need to stop being surprised when they come home as Romans." That is it! That's the reason I had a secular worldview for so many years. I had a light go off in my head watching this video.
One of the statistics used was that 90% of Christians don't have a biblical worldview. I finally realized why I am starting to feel so outside the norm these days; I am now in the 10% category. And that's only talking about Christians; it's not including non-Christians. Wow! And Mr. (Pastor? Rev.? I'm not sure which) Baucham said that we are losing 70-88% of kids from evangelical families by the end of their freshman year in college. But 90-95% of homeschool kids kept the faith of their family. Does that paint a clear picture or what??
There is so much more about this video I was amazed by, but I don't want to just sit here and quote the whole thing. If you are even slightly considering homeschooling or you are a Christian parent unhappy with public school but don't think homeschooling is right for you, watch the video. It is worth it.
The HSDLA has many statistics about homeschooling. Homeschoolers outperform public schoolers on all standardized tests. There was little difference between boys and girls; household income level had little impact; the education level of the parents showed a difference, but still test scores were much higher than for public schoolers; whether the parents were certified teachers made no difference; and the extent of government regulation (by state) had no impact on test scores. Homeschoolers made an average of at least 30 percentage points higher than public schoolers across the board. As for socialization, the main concern many voice about homeschooling, it is not the issue detractors want to make it out to be. In a recent study, the socialization myth has been shown to in fact be just a myth.
From the article:
"When measured against the average Canadians ages 15 to 34 years old, home-educated Canadian adults ages 15 to 34 were more socially engaged (69 percent participated in organized activities at least once per week, compared with 48 percent of the comparable population). Average income for homeschoolers also was higher, but perhaps more significantly, while 11 percent of Canadians ages 15 to 34 rely on welfare, there were no cases of government support as the primary source of income for homeschoolers. Homeschoolers also were happier; 67.3 percent described themselves as very happy, compared with 43.8 percent of the comparable population. Almost all of the homeschoolers—96 percent—thought homeschooling had prepared them well for life."
I just don't see why so many people are against homeschooling. At the very least, why are so many people concerned about me homeschooling my kids? I have had many people question my choice. (By the way, when I say my, and me, and I throughout this blog post, know that Hub and I made these decisions together. Together we listened to what God had to say about this and chose to make the decision we feel He is most pleased with.) I have had many people question whether I was doing the right thing by my children. I have even (online, not in a face to face setting) had people say that I am abusing my child by homeschooling. Well, any intelligent person can look at the statistics and see that homeschooling does not harm children. And all someone has to do is come to one of our homeschool group meetings to see that my children are far from unsocialized.
I am responsible for raising my children, not the government. One day, I will have to stand in front of my heavenly Father and account to Him for all that He gave me in my life. He gave me three beautiful children, but He expects me to raise them His way. I sure don't want to fail. I want to be able to hold my head up high and say that I accomplished the task. And I personally feel that in this day and age, I would not be successful if I sent my children to public, government controlled school.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Monday, February 22, 2010
Well...
Been awhile, huh?
Again I seem to not be able to keep up with this blog. It is truly my desire to make something of it, but I can't seem to get it together. Truth be told, I dream, and I do mean dream, like deep, deep down dreaming, that someday this could be a great blog. But I am also practical enough to know that at this point in time I don't have it in me.
So, this little corner of the blog-o-sphere will just have to stay as it is for the moment.
Tonight, I am in the mood to discuss the weather. We have had a particularly different winter this year. Hub and I moved to this area almost 10 years ago. I grew up about 30 minutes from where we live now, but it is over a rather large mountain chain, so living here can be quite different than living 30 minutes from here.
In any case, the weather since we have lived here has been mostly mild in the winter. The first two winters we had were not very memorable. There might have been a trace of snow. Then the year Dino was born, there were one or two snows that actually produced something you could play in, and make snowmen. From that point on until this year, I can count on one hand the inches of snow for those 6 winters. So, that is all to say that we don't usually get the white stuff around here these days.
Which means that this winter, with the almost 30 inches of snow so far, you could say things have been extremely different. It's been an adjustment. I am, quite frankly, sick of the snow. We still have some on the ground from the last big one, almost a month ago. Not only have we had snow, but we have had cooler temperatures as well.
Which, between me and you, makes me what to shout "Global warming, schlobal schmarming." But I won't. Because that would be dumb.
And I am not dumb. Mostly. Sometimes. Oh alright, I can occasionally be dumb. But wanting to stick out my tongue and say nanner, nanner, boo, boo to those who say we are in the midst of global warming isn't too smart.
First of all, let's use the term they prefer now, climate change. I understand that many believe that even though we are having a much cooler winter than has been experienced for the last several years, we are still in a global warming trend. And that the weather is actually strange and crazy which lends itself to the weirdness that is climate change.
But I gotta tell ya, I don't buy it. I just don't think that this is really what is the truth. I think the truth is that we are living in one of the cycles that the earth normally goes through. Just another cycle that God designed. Once, the earth was very cold, then it warmed up, then it cooled down again. Now we're in the warming phase again. And for that matter, depending on the study you read, it looks as if we are already back in the cooling cycle again.
And let's get real, if you want to find a study that backs up your claims, no matter which side of the fence you sit on for this issue, all you have to do is take some time and Google will find something to suit your preference.
And truly, around here we are getting a lot more snow and cooler temps than we have in the past, but it's not really all that alarming. Because, there have been times where it has done this before. It's been 20 or 30 years, but back then, getting snow off and on all winter was normal. The lack of snow over these past 20ish years was considered unusual at first. Then we got used to little snow so it just seems like an unusual winter this year. But in the bigger picture, it's not.
So, I have chosen to not get all up at arms about the whole situation. It does make me giggle when I see so many scramble now that things seem to be cooling. And when someone like me, you know, "the dummies", make an "I thought we were in global warming" whilst standing on a pile of unusual snow quip, I love to watch the climate change people froth at the mouth. It's kinda fun. And I have done it once or twice just to watch them spin. Oh joy!!
But, to me, it doesn't really matter anyway. The earth might be warming, it might be cooling, it might be just planning on rolling over and playing dead. I really don't care. God is in control. I trust Him. I trust that if the earth really is warming up to such a degree that life here is becoming dangerous, well, all that really means to me is that it won't be long until I get to see Jesus. Because He will be making an appearance on this earth again before it's all said and done. And if the earth is on its last legs, well, then, Jesus will be here soon.
And that thought makes me happy. I can't wait to stand face to face with Him.
It does mean that I need to get myself in gear. Because, believe it or not, I would love for all these liberal, global warming, excuse me, climate change, there is no God, but we should take care of mother earth people to come to a saving knowledge in Jesus Christ. I have some dear friends and family members who don't know Him and I would rather they did. So, if the earth is in danger, I need to do what I can to make sure not one person I know and love is left without knowing Jesus. I can't save anyone, but I can make sure that they have been told.
My work is cut out for me. And even if I babble til the cow come home, and only one person reads this blog and it makes a difference, well then, it's worth it.
So babble along I will.
Again I seem to not be able to keep up with this blog. It is truly my desire to make something of it, but I can't seem to get it together. Truth be told, I dream, and I do mean dream, like deep, deep down dreaming, that someday this could be a great blog. But I am also practical enough to know that at this point in time I don't have it in me.
So, this little corner of the blog-o-sphere will just have to stay as it is for the moment.
Tonight, I am in the mood to discuss the weather. We have had a particularly different winter this year. Hub and I moved to this area almost 10 years ago. I grew up about 30 minutes from where we live now, but it is over a rather large mountain chain, so living here can be quite different than living 30 minutes from here.
In any case, the weather since we have lived here has been mostly mild in the winter. The first two winters we had were not very memorable. There might have been a trace of snow. Then the year Dino was born, there were one or two snows that actually produced something you could play in, and make snowmen. From that point on until this year, I can count on one hand the inches of snow for those 6 winters. So, that is all to say that we don't usually get the white stuff around here these days.
Which means that this winter, with the almost 30 inches of snow so far, you could say things have been extremely different. It's been an adjustment. I am, quite frankly, sick of the snow. We still have some on the ground from the last big one, almost a month ago. Not only have we had snow, but we have had cooler temperatures as well.
Which, between me and you, makes me what to shout "Global warming, schlobal schmarming." But I won't. Because that would be dumb.
And I am not dumb. Mostly. Sometimes. Oh alright, I can occasionally be dumb. But wanting to stick out my tongue and say nanner, nanner, boo, boo to those who say we are in the midst of global warming isn't too smart.
First of all, let's use the term they prefer now, climate change. I understand that many believe that even though we are having a much cooler winter than has been experienced for the last several years, we are still in a global warming trend. And that the weather is actually strange and crazy which lends itself to the weirdness that is climate change.
But I gotta tell ya, I don't buy it. I just don't think that this is really what is the truth. I think the truth is that we are living in one of the cycles that the earth normally goes through. Just another cycle that God designed. Once, the earth was very cold, then it warmed up, then it cooled down again. Now we're in the warming phase again. And for that matter, depending on the study you read, it looks as if we are already back in the cooling cycle again.
And let's get real, if you want to find a study that backs up your claims, no matter which side of the fence you sit on for this issue, all you have to do is take some time and Google will find something to suit your preference.
And truly, around here we are getting a lot more snow and cooler temps than we have in the past, but it's not really all that alarming. Because, there have been times where it has done this before. It's been 20 or 30 years, but back then, getting snow off and on all winter was normal. The lack of snow over these past 20ish years was considered unusual at first. Then we got used to little snow so it just seems like an unusual winter this year. But in the bigger picture, it's not.
So, I have chosen to not get all up at arms about the whole situation. It does make me giggle when I see so many scramble now that things seem to be cooling. And when someone like me, you know, "the dummies", make an "I thought we were in global warming" whilst standing on a pile of unusual snow quip, I love to watch the climate change people froth at the mouth. It's kinda fun. And I have done it once or twice just to watch them spin. Oh joy!!
But, to me, it doesn't really matter anyway. The earth might be warming, it might be cooling, it might be just planning on rolling over and playing dead. I really don't care. God is in control. I trust Him. I trust that if the earth really is warming up to such a degree that life here is becoming dangerous, well, all that really means to me is that it won't be long until I get to see Jesus. Because He will be making an appearance on this earth again before it's all said and done. And if the earth is on its last legs, well, then, Jesus will be here soon.
And that thought makes me happy. I can't wait to stand face to face with Him.
It does mean that I need to get myself in gear. Because, believe it or not, I would love for all these liberal, global warming, excuse me, climate change, there is no God, but we should take care of mother earth people to come to a saving knowledge in Jesus Christ. I have some dear friends and family members who don't know Him and I would rather they did. So, if the earth is in danger, I need to do what I can to make sure not one person I know and love is left without knowing Jesus. I can't save anyone, but I can make sure that they have been told.
My work is cut out for me. And even if I babble til the cow come home, and only one person reads this blog and it makes a difference, well then, it's worth it.
So babble along I will.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
That's enough
That's it! I've had it! I am so tired of just settling because it's what everyone else is doing; because it's just the way that it is; because they're going to do it anyway; because it's not really a big deal; because it isn't really hurting anyone.
Well, crap! (And yes, I know that I said crap. I'm mad!) It is hurting someone; it's hurting God. And it's hurting me and my family. And millions of other people in this world.
I just watched a movie on Lifetime, "The Pregnancy Pact." I knew from the previews what it would be about but I still wanted to see it. And I am so steaming mad right now. I am so tired of people cramming it down my throat that having sex isn't really that bad. Just give kids protection and it's fine to let 'em have at it. (And while we're at it, let 'em drink until they puke, too. -But that's a topic for another day.) Cause they're not hurting anyone, everyone does it, what's the big deal?
When did we lose our self-respect? When did it become okay to trample on God's word and call it harmless fun? Everywhere you look now it's considered just one of those things that everyone does. Sex sells. It's everywhere, in your face, on billboards, commercials, magazines, children's shows!! You can't go into a store and buy girls clothes without being bombarded by sex. Being sexy is the "in" thing to be.
This movie had an ulterior motive as well. Let's get rid of abstinence only programs and offer contraception to all the kids. Cause, you know, they're already doing it so let's make sure they're protected. Well, crap. (There, I said it again.) That is such faulty logic. (And something I used to spout myself) Just because someone is doing something wrong does not mean we should say well, okay, here- do it some more. And if any of my kids comes to me and says they are having sex, do I want them to be safe? Well, yes. But I believe the only way to be truly safe is to not have sex until you are married. Why is it such a bad thing to teach children? And why not say that if you've already had sex, it isn't too late to protect yourself now. Just start over. Try abstinence again. Bristol Palin is doing that. And she's getting skewered for it. And I just don't get it.
I don't see how anyone can say that people having sex with whomever they want, whenever they want, as often as they want is not a bad thing. The truth is, I can't say too much about it from experience. I had sex for the first time at 20, with a guy I was madly in love with and he was living with his girlfriend and their daughter at the time. (They were also living with his mother and brothers and sister. And I was living there, too. Crazy times.) I wanted to have sex with him; it's all I thought about for months. And afterwards, (A month or two afterwards) all I could think is "Why?" Why on earth did I lose my virginity to him? And then it was easy to keep to myself until Hub came along. Now, again, I didn't do the right thing. Hub and I had sex before we got married; we even lived together. But the fact that I am the only person he has ever had sex with is something I treasure. I wish I could have given him such a wonderful gift.
And there are other things I did in my past relating to sex that I am not proud of. Things that have hindered my relationship with the Lord, and with my wonderful Hub. I spend time even now being ashamed of my body and things I've done with it and it affects my sex life now. And yet, I hurt no one by having sex before marriage????? That's what the world is trying to tell me. And it's a load of crap.
God is the only pure, perfect, Holy being there ever was. And He says that it's wrong to have sex outside of marriage. And even if we don't understand why He says that, it's true. He does not lie. And it's something we should obey. I don't think that obedience is saying it's okay if people have sex, since they're already doing it, since they're going to anyway, since it isn't hurting anyone. Allowing it to go on is wrong. We should be taking a stand and teaching our children that God created sex. He created it to be a pure, perfect, wonderful thing to be shared between a husband and a wife. And if it is done the right way, in the right time, it is such a beautiful thing. And I'm tired of letting it become perverted. And regardless of what the world thinks, my children will be taught that sex should be reserved for marriage, the way our Lord and Saviour intended it to be.
Well, crap! (And yes, I know that I said crap. I'm mad!) It is hurting someone; it's hurting God. And it's hurting me and my family. And millions of other people in this world.
I just watched a movie on Lifetime, "The Pregnancy Pact." I knew from the previews what it would be about but I still wanted to see it. And I am so steaming mad right now. I am so tired of people cramming it down my throat that having sex isn't really that bad. Just give kids protection and it's fine to let 'em have at it. (And while we're at it, let 'em drink until they puke, too. -But that's a topic for another day.) Cause they're not hurting anyone, everyone does it, what's the big deal?
When did we lose our self-respect? When did it become okay to trample on God's word and call it harmless fun? Everywhere you look now it's considered just one of those things that everyone does. Sex sells. It's everywhere, in your face, on billboards, commercials, magazines, children's shows!! You can't go into a store and buy girls clothes without being bombarded by sex. Being sexy is the "in" thing to be.
This movie had an ulterior motive as well. Let's get rid of abstinence only programs and offer contraception to all the kids. Cause, you know, they're already doing it so let's make sure they're protected. Well, crap. (There, I said it again.) That is such faulty logic. (And something I used to spout myself) Just because someone is doing something wrong does not mean we should say well, okay, here- do it some more. And if any of my kids comes to me and says they are having sex, do I want them to be safe? Well, yes. But I believe the only way to be truly safe is to not have sex until you are married. Why is it such a bad thing to teach children? And why not say that if you've already had sex, it isn't too late to protect yourself now. Just start over. Try abstinence again. Bristol Palin is doing that. And she's getting skewered for it. And I just don't get it.
I don't see how anyone can say that people having sex with whomever they want, whenever they want, as often as they want is not a bad thing. The truth is, I can't say too much about it from experience. I had sex for the first time at 20, with a guy I was madly in love with and he was living with his girlfriend and their daughter at the time. (They were also living with his mother and brothers and sister. And I was living there, too. Crazy times.) I wanted to have sex with him; it's all I thought about for months. And afterwards, (A month or two afterwards) all I could think is "Why?" Why on earth did I lose my virginity to him? And then it was easy to keep to myself until Hub came along. Now, again, I didn't do the right thing. Hub and I had sex before we got married; we even lived together. But the fact that I am the only person he has ever had sex with is something I treasure. I wish I could have given him such a wonderful gift.
And there are other things I did in my past relating to sex that I am not proud of. Things that have hindered my relationship with the Lord, and with my wonderful Hub. I spend time even now being ashamed of my body and things I've done with it and it affects my sex life now. And yet, I hurt no one by having sex before marriage????? That's what the world is trying to tell me. And it's a load of crap.
God is the only pure, perfect, Holy being there ever was. And He says that it's wrong to have sex outside of marriage. And even if we don't understand why He says that, it's true. He does not lie. And it's something we should obey. I don't think that obedience is saying it's okay if people have sex, since they're already doing it, since they're going to anyway, since it isn't hurting anyone. Allowing it to go on is wrong. We should be taking a stand and teaching our children that God created sex. He created it to be a pure, perfect, wonderful thing to be shared between a husband and a wife. And if it is done the right way, in the right time, it is such a beautiful thing. And I'm tired of letting it become perverted. And regardless of what the world thinks, my children will be taught that sex should be reserved for marriage, the way our Lord and Saviour intended it to be.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
A Little of This...
You know, I don't really know what I want to say right now. I had plans to come sit down at the computer tonight and that somehow the words were just going to flow. But I did a little of this and a little of that and I never made it here. And now, eh, I'm really not in the mood.
But I feel like there's something I need to say. I'm scratching my head and still coming up empty. Maybe just posting tonight will get me back in the swing of blogging and then I'll figure out what I really want to say. Who knows.
I will talk about what's been going on around here. I've been doing a ton of reading. I'm reading a couple of books for group discussions; we started back to school after an almost 4 week break; and I started a new bible reading program: Read the Bible in 90 Days. So, umm, yeah, a lot going on just with me. I don't know what I am thinking committing to so much at one time. I'm a bit crazy, but I am actually enjoying every minute of it.
The two books I'm reading are Crazy Love by Francis Chan and Living With Confidence in a Chaotic World by David Jeremiah.
Crazy Love is wonderful!! It's actually an easy read but it makes you (me anyway) look closer at your life, see if you are loving God with the kind of crazy love you should be. (For the record, I'm not. But I think that if I said I was, I would be satisfied and I don't think I should ever be satisfied with how close I am to God. I should always desire to be closer to Him.)
One part that is touching me right now is when it's talking about how we just add God on to the end of the day. We pray for a few minutes right before we go to bed, or we give a few dollars on Sunday after spending hundreds during the week. We serve Him leftovers. But this line touched me so much: "But the fact is that nothing should concern us more than our relationship with God."
I think we forget about that way too often. We put so many other things first. Often, we're doing good things. It's not bad to teach our children about God; it's not bad to be at church every time the door is open; it's not bad to say yes every time someone asks for help. It's easy to think that we are doing exactly what God wants us to be doing. It's also easy to see that neglecting our families, stealing, lying, lusting, and all those "big" sins are wrong. It's a lot harder to see that little things that we do that make us put God in second place, even when those things are good, well, that's called sin. No pretty way to say it. It's sin, and God hates sin.
So, ummm, yeah, I should be doing everything I can to put God first, and all the "stuff", even when the stuff is important stuff, it needs to be second. God should always be first. He's the reason I live, it's the least I can do to put Him first.
Now, for those two readers that I have that aren't Michelle ;-) head on over to her blog and read the wonderful post she just made. It literally brought me to tears. God has given her a gift. And she is using it to His glory. I admire you Michelle, and I am trying to find out what gifts God has given me so that I may use them like you have. You've got some crazy love going on and it's beautiful to see!!
But I feel like there's something I need to say. I'm scratching my head and still coming up empty. Maybe just posting tonight will get me back in the swing of blogging and then I'll figure out what I really want to say. Who knows.
I will talk about what's been going on around here. I've been doing a ton of reading. I'm reading a couple of books for group discussions; we started back to school after an almost 4 week break; and I started a new bible reading program: Read the Bible in 90 Days. So, umm, yeah, a lot going on just with me. I don't know what I am thinking committing to so much at one time. I'm a bit crazy, but I am actually enjoying every minute of it.
The two books I'm reading are Crazy Love by Francis Chan and Living With Confidence in a Chaotic World by David Jeremiah.
Crazy Love is wonderful!! It's actually an easy read but it makes you (me anyway) look closer at your life, see if you are loving God with the kind of crazy love you should be. (For the record, I'm not. But I think that if I said I was, I would be satisfied and I don't think I should ever be satisfied with how close I am to God. I should always desire to be closer to Him.)
One part that is touching me right now is when it's talking about how we just add God on to the end of the day. We pray for a few minutes right before we go to bed, or we give a few dollars on Sunday after spending hundreds during the week. We serve Him leftovers. But this line touched me so much: "But the fact is that nothing should concern us more than our relationship with God."
I think we forget about that way too often. We put so many other things first. Often, we're doing good things. It's not bad to teach our children about God; it's not bad to be at church every time the door is open; it's not bad to say yes every time someone asks for help. It's easy to think that we are doing exactly what God wants us to be doing. It's also easy to see that neglecting our families, stealing, lying, lusting, and all those "big" sins are wrong. It's a lot harder to see that little things that we do that make us put God in second place, even when those things are good, well, that's called sin. No pretty way to say it. It's sin, and God hates sin.
So, ummm, yeah, I should be doing everything I can to put God first, and all the "stuff", even when the stuff is important stuff, it needs to be second. God should always be first. He's the reason I live, it's the least I can do to put Him first.
Now, for those two readers that I have that aren't Michelle ;-) head on over to her blog and read the wonderful post she just made. It literally brought me to tears. God has given her a gift. And she is using it to His glory. I admire you Michelle, and I am trying to find out what gifts God has given me so that I may use them like you have. You've got some crazy love going on and it's beautiful to see!!
Hi
Hi!
I've not dropped off the face of the earth. Just not been in a blogging mood. But tonight, ah, tonight I have great plans.
Let's see if they materialize...
I've not dropped off the face of the earth. Just not been in a blogging mood. But tonight, ah, tonight I have great plans.
Let's see if they materialize...
Friday, December 25, 2009
Happy Birthday Jesus!
And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.
Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.
So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:
“ Glory to God in the highest,
And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger.
Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.
Luke 2: 1-20
Friday, December 18, 2009
Oh the weather outside
Is delightful!! For the first time in years, we have a measureable snowfall in our yard!! I'm as excited as the kids! We have had a wonderful snow day. Now, I am just praying that no trees go down and cause damage. One fell already this afternoon, but it was one that was leaning anyway and just fell in the "woods" in our yard. (we have no actual woods, just a place with more trees, but we call it the woods)
Our power has blinked several times this evening. I'm less concerned about the power going than something falling and hitting the house or one of the cars.
But God will take care of us.
I took pictures throughout the day. Here is a series of the tree we had on the porch for Christmas.
We got about 9 inches here, and areas around us got 10, 12, and more. The weather forecast is for a few more inches overnight. Should be interesting tomorrow.
Thank God that Hub was able to make it to and from work today. And we pray that the roads will be fine for him tomorrow.
In closing, here is one last picture. It is my favorite of the day. I could just squeeze each one of those pink cheeks!
Our power has blinked several times this evening. I'm less concerned about the power going than something falling and hitting the house or one of the cars.
But God will take care of us.
I took pictures throughout the day. Here is a series of the tree we had on the porch for Christmas.
8 am:
10 am:
12 pm:
4 pm:
7 pm:
We got about 9 inches here, and areas around us got 10, 12, and more. The weather forecast is for a few more inches overnight. Should be interesting tomorrow.
Thank God that Hub was able to make it to and from work today. And we pray that the roads will be fine for him tomorrow.
In closing, here is one last picture. It is my favorite of the day. I could just squeeze each one of those pink cheeks!
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Wordless Wednesday: Christmas Edition
The tree
All our nativites:
My favorite nativity:
My mother's churches:
Me being silly:
Monday, December 14, 2009
It's not about the presents, it's about His presence
It's Christmas again. And I have a confession to make. I bought too much for the boys. Sigh. Every year I say I'm going to back off and make Christmas be what it should be about, and every year I fail.
It's easy to get down on myself and think that I am not a good enough mom, that I haven't done enough for the boys. But then I listen when they pray. And I watch as they help each other out, and are kind to one another. Then I tell them we need to get rid of some of their toys, and they tell me who I should give this one to, and this one to, and can't we find something to give to so-and-so. And they always want to give more money at church. They will find coins and want it for the offering. And they are eager to go to the neighbors house and take her mail. There are so many ways they show their heart.
And that is when I realize that I am not failing at this mom thing. I can definitely do things to improve, but I am not failing.
I will always strive for ways to help the boys (and myself) know that what really matters is the presence of Jesus. As long as He is in our lives, we can do anything, we can handle anything, we can survive anything. His presence brings meaning into our lives. And as long as I have Him, I will continue to strive to be the best mom I can be. And one day, my boys will know without a doubt that it's not about the presents, but it's about the presence of Jesus.
It's easy to get down on myself and think that I am not a good enough mom, that I haven't done enough for the boys. But then I listen when they pray. And I watch as they help each other out, and are kind to one another. Then I tell them we need to get rid of some of their toys, and they tell me who I should give this one to, and this one to, and can't we find something to give to so-and-so. And they always want to give more money at church. They will find coins and want it for the offering. And they are eager to go to the neighbors house and take her mail. There are so many ways they show their heart.
And that is when I realize that I am not failing at this mom thing. I can definitely do things to improve, but I am not failing.
I will always strive for ways to help the boys (and myself) know that what really matters is the presence of Jesus. As long as He is in our lives, we can do anything, we can handle anything, we can survive anything. His presence brings meaning into our lives. And as long as I have Him, I will continue to strive to be the best mom I can be. And one day, my boys will know without a doubt that it's not about the presents, but it's about the presence of Jesus.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
What in the World is Going On?
I just got home. I'm tired. But I feel the need to at least put something on here. It's the tenth of December. It's been awhile since I wrote anything. Well, I did write one thing but it was more therapeutic so I did not publish it. But, I'm babbling.
So, tonight I was at my weekly Bible study with some friends. We just started it back up a few weeks ago after a several month hiatus. And it feels so good. We've been watching some dvd's right now and when we finish, we are going to move to a more hands on study of the Bible.
But the dvd's we've been watching have been very good. It's David Jeremiah's What In the World Is Going On? I have really enjoyed it. I like to listen to David Jeremiah; I like the way he talks. And the information he is giving is fantastic. I don't know much about prophecy, some but not a ton of detail. So I have learned a lot. And if he and so many others are right, we are living in the end times. And it is soooooo exciting!
The Lord may not be coming back soon, but He is coming back at some point. And if it is now, WOW! He chose for us to be alive for it! Don't you just get chills thinking about that? I do!
So, tonight I was at my weekly Bible study with some friends. We just started it back up a few weeks ago after a several month hiatus. And it feels so good. We've been watching some dvd's right now and when we finish, we are going to move to a more hands on study of the Bible.
But the dvd's we've been watching have been very good. It's David Jeremiah's What In the World Is Going On? I have really enjoyed it. I like to listen to David Jeremiah; I like the way he talks. And the information he is giving is fantastic. I don't know much about prophecy, some but not a ton of detail. So I have learned a lot. And if he and so many others are right, we are living in the end times. And it is soooooo exciting!
The Lord may not be coming back soon, but He is coming back at some point. And if it is now, WOW! He chose for us to be alive for it! Don't you just get chills thinking about that? I do!
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Ostrich
I'm being an ostrich again. I tend to do this when I go through another depression cycle. I hide from people. In my real life, that's mostly easy to do. Having three kids and homeschooling leaves little time for much else. So I can just stay home like normal. Works out fine. ;-)
But online, when I get to this place, I shut people out. I may visit the same places and offer short thoughts, but for the most part, I hide. Tonight is a perfect example. I have three main places I go online and talk to true friends. Two of the places I've been for over two years; the other is newer. One of the old places is my home. It's where I truly can be me and have some close friends. I love my girls.
The other older place is mostly people I like, and car about, but I don't let the real me free.
And the new place is one where I know that there is potential for some real, tight, true friendships, but while I am getting very personal with some, I am still guarded a bit for now.
So, in my ostrich mode, guess where I've been spending most of my online time?
Did ya guess yet? Hmmmm?
Well, it sure ain't the places I am more the real me. D'uh.
Yeah, I have been spending time with the casual friends. It's so much easier. I don't even have to think about it. Then I wonder what that says about me. And I just don't know. I think that sometimes I just need to...
...well, I don't even know how to finish that. I just can't be me sometimes. And not really that, I just can't be deep sometimes. My close friends know me to be deep, faithful, trying to be holy, trying to have a Christ-like spirit (yes, Terri, that's for you) and sometimes it's too hard. I feel like I'm putting on a front. And it's actually stupid, because these are my true friends, and they love me in the way that matters, in the true spirit of love. So why I feel the need to hide, I just don't know. I do know that it passes faster now than it used to.
It used to stick around for months at a time. But now that I am closer to Christ, I find the strength to go on; He gives me the strength.
So, while I am an ostrich today, maybe tomorrow I'll be a swan!
But online, when I get to this place, I shut people out. I may visit the same places and offer short thoughts, but for the most part, I hide. Tonight is a perfect example. I have three main places I go online and talk to true friends. Two of the places I've been for over two years; the other is newer. One of the old places is my home. It's where I truly can be me and have some close friends. I love my girls.
The other older place is mostly people I like, and car about, but I don't let the real me free.
And the new place is one where I know that there is potential for some real, tight, true friendships, but while I am getting very personal with some, I am still guarded a bit for now.
So, in my ostrich mode, guess where I've been spending most of my online time?
Did ya guess yet? Hmmmm?
Well, it sure ain't the places I am more the real me. D'uh.
Yeah, I have been spending time with the casual friends. It's so much easier. I don't even have to think about it. Then I wonder what that says about me. And I just don't know. I think that sometimes I just need to...
...well, I don't even know how to finish that. I just can't be me sometimes. And not really that, I just can't be deep sometimes. My close friends know me to be deep, faithful, trying to be holy, trying to have a Christ-like spirit (yes, Terri, that's for you) and sometimes it's too hard. I feel like I'm putting on a front. And it's actually stupid, because these are my true friends, and they love me in the way that matters, in the true spirit of love. So why I feel the need to hide, I just don't know. I do know that it passes faster now than it used to.
It used to stick around for months at a time. But now that I am closer to Christ, I find the strength to go on; He gives me the strength.
So, while I am an ostrich today, maybe tomorrow I'll be a swan!
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Crazy Love
I just started reading "Crazy Love" by Francis Chan tonight. I am already blown away. And humbled by the fact that the God who created everything in this universe, everything that ever was and everything that ever will be, that He loves me, He cares about me.
There is nothing I have ever done or will ever do that can make me good enough for Him. I am sin; I am dirt; I am unlovable. But because of Him, because Jesus came to earth to take my punishment, I can become white as snow, pure, holy, righteous. Because I know Jesus, I am free. I am saved.
Not one part of me is worthy of that. But how amazing is it that in spite of everything that I am, God loves me and accepts me?
Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only that, but we rejoice in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us. Romans 5:1-5 (I typed that from memory. Part of a study I'm doing and I memorized it.)
He gave me a mind. He wants me to use it to think. And most importantly, I should use my mind to find Him.
For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools, and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things. Romans 1:20-23
He created everything knowing that we would look to the creation to find Him. There are so many who look at creation and refuse to see Him. That is so sad to me. He's everywhere, we only have to look to see.
The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmament shows His handiwork. Psalm 19:1
God, the one who was and is and is to come loves me. It cannot get any better than that.
There is nothing I have ever done or will ever do that can make me good enough for Him. I am sin; I am dirt; I am unlovable. But because of Him, because Jesus came to earth to take my punishment, I can become white as snow, pure, holy, righteous. Because I know Jesus, I am free. I am saved.
Not one part of me is worthy of that. But how amazing is it that in spite of everything that I am, God loves me and accepts me?
Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only that, but we rejoice in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us. Romans 5:1-5 (I typed that from memory. Part of a study I'm doing and I memorized it.)
He gave me a mind. He wants me to use it to think. And most importantly, I should use my mind to find Him.
For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools, and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things. Romans 1:20-23
He created everything knowing that we would look to the creation to find Him. There are so many who look at creation and refuse to see Him. That is so sad to me. He's everywhere, we only have to look to see.
The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmament shows His handiwork. Psalm 19:1
God, the one who was and is and is to come loves me. It cannot get any better than that.
Friday, November 27, 2009
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Being thankful
Thankful: conscious of benefit received; expressive of thanks; well pleased.
Thanks: kindly or grateful thoughts; an expression of gratitude.
Thanksgiving: the act of giving thanks; a prayer expressing gratitude; a public acknowledgment or celebration of divine goodness.
Psalm 50:14 Offer to God thanksgiving, And pay your vows to the Most High.
Psalm 69:30 I will praise the name of God with a song, And will magnify Him with thanksgiving.
Psalm 95:2 Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving; Let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms.
Psalm 100:4 Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.
Psalm 107:1 Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.
Psalm 30:12 To the end that my glory may sing praise to You and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks to You forever.
Psalm 79:13 So we, Your people and sheep of Your pasture, Will give You thanks forever; We will show forth Your praise to all generations.
Colossians 1:12 giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light.
1 Thessalonians 5:18 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
Revelation 11:17 We give You thanks, O Lord God Almighty, The One who is and who was and who is to come, Because You have taken Your great power and reigned.
I have many blessings. I am so thankful for them all. But the one that matters the most is Jesus. My salvation is the biggest blessing in my life. Hands down. Nothing else even comes close. Praise God.
And just for information, my favorite thanksgiving blog post is at Knowing Norrah. Wonderful.
Thanks: kindly or grateful thoughts; an expression of gratitude.
Thanksgiving: the act of giving thanks; a prayer expressing gratitude; a public acknowledgment or celebration of divine goodness.
Psalm 50:14 Offer to God thanksgiving, And pay your vows to the Most High.
Psalm 69:30 I will praise the name of God with a song, And will magnify Him with thanksgiving.
Psalm 95:2 Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving; Let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms.
Psalm 100:4 Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.
Psalm 107:1 Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.
Psalm 30:12 To the end that my glory may sing praise to You and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks to You forever.
Psalm 79:13 So we, Your people and sheep of Your pasture, Will give You thanks forever; We will show forth Your praise to all generations.
Colossians 1:12 giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light.
1 Thessalonians 5:18 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
Revelation 11:17 We give You thanks, O Lord God Almighty, The One who is and who was and who is to come, Because You have taken Your great power and reigned.
I have many blessings. I am so thankful for them all. But the one that matters the most is Jesus. My salvation is the biggest blessing in my life. Hands down. Nothing else even comes close. Praise God.
And just for information, my favorite thanksgiving blog post is at Knowing Norrah. Wonderful.
The one where I just babble
Okay, so I am not going to post anything with real meat. But how about some pictures? Pictures are always good. Here are some that the boys insisted I take of their blocks.
Frog was so proud of his "castles". He made several. And Dino made the ones below. It's so amazing to me how different they are. Frog made 3D creations and Dino's are flat. But they are all wonderful!
Okay, this one I just couldn't resist because, I mean seriously, doesn't he look like just the cutest little redneck boy you've ever seen, wearing his daddy's shoes and hat? And didn't I just write the longest run-on sentence in the world?
And for good measure, one more of the hawk. Which still isn't gone, but I haven't spiked it up lately. Hub says it looks like Dino has a dead squirrel on his head. It will be cut tomorrow.
Happy Thanksgiving!!
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Not too shabby...
So, I've made 15 (well, today makes 16) days out of 24, which is 67% of the month so far. And, even if I don't post again for the whole month, it will be a 53% success rate. Not bad.
Buuuuuutttt, if I post more, my percentage will rise. Hey, if I post every day til the end of the month, I will end with 73%. Not too shabby.
So, what do I want to share tonight? Well, I have been in an online Bible study with some wonderful ladies. We have been studying in Romans, specifically chapter 5, verses 1-5.
Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
Our latest assignment included drawing a representation of the verses. This is my picture:
The foundation is faith; without it, there is nothing else. The Holy Spirit is represented by the white pitcher, and it pours out God's love into our hearts. Our hearts are able to be filled because Jesus saved us. As soon as we believe, have faith, we are saved through Jesus. And at that point, God pours His love into our hearts and we are indwelt with the Holy Spirit.
Man, am I so glad to be saved!
Buuuuuutttt, if I post more, my percentage will rise. Hey, if I post every day til the end of the month, I will end with 73%. Not too shabby.
So, what do I want to share tonight? Well, I have been in an online Bible study with some wonderful ladies. We have been studying in Romans, specifically chapter 5, verses 1-5.
Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
Our latest assignment included drawing a representation of the verses. This is my picture:
Man, am I so glad to be saved!
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Nearly Wordless Wednesday
Crazy hair night at AWANA resulted in this:
The red washed out very easily and the mohawk will be allowed for about a week. After that, Hub said it was enough. We'll see what Dino thinks. I hope it will be out of his system by then. If not, it's only hair.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Yes, it actually does happen just like that!
I don't claim to understand it. Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. Proverbs 3:5 I don't claim to know why. “ For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” says the LORD. Isaiah 55:8 But I do claim that it's true. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. James 5:16
I spent most of last night in the emergency room. We went to church last night like always. The kids were in their AWANA groups. Hub came late because he had been at work. I went into the sanctuary at 7 for the evening service. About 20 minutes later, someone came in and got my friend and took her out. Then one of the deacons came in and told us that they thought her husband had had a heart attack. After prayer, I went outside.
In the other building, Henry had been playing ball and complained of feeling dizzy. Then he fell to his knees and grabbed his left arm and fell to the ground. Someone called 911 and then the prayer started.
The ambulance came within a couple of minutes of me going outside. Then I watched from outside as they wheeled Henry out and into the ambulance. When Jen, his wife, came out, I joined the other ladies and we prayed with her. We got the kids taken care of and then I went with Jen to the hospital.
Once there, we realized that Henry had not had a heart attack. After several hours and several tests, he was told it was vertigo and a migraine.
At one point, the nurse was in and Jen said, "I think he had a heart attack and we were at church and everyone prayed, and God took care of it." The nurse laughed and said, "I don't think it actually works like that." He said it with just enough sneer that I knew he wasn't a Christian. And as he walked out the door, I said, "Well, we know it does actually work just like that."
We will never know this side of heaven whether Henry had a heart attack last night, but we do know we serve a mighty God. And He answers our prayers. Always.
I spent most of last night in the emergency room. We went to church last night like always. The kids were in their AWANA groups. Hub came late because he had been at work. I went into the sanctuary at 7 for the evening service. About 20 minutes later, someone came in and got my friend and took her out. Then one of the deacons came in and told us that they thought her husband had had a heart attack. After prayer, I went outside.
In the other building, Henry had been playing ball and complained of feeling dizzy. Then he fell to his knees and grabbed his left arm and fell to the ground. Someone called 911 and then the prayer started.
The ambulance came within a couple of minutes of me going outside. Then I watched from outside as they wheeled Henry out and into the ambulance. When Jen, his wife, came out, I joined the other ladies and we prayed with her. We got the kids taken care of and then I went with Jen to the hospital.
Once there, we realized that Henry had not had a heart attack. After several hours and several tests, he was told it was vertigo and a migraine.
At one point, the nurse was in and Jen said, "I think he had a heart attack and we were at church and everyone prayed, and God took care of it." The nurse laughed and said, "I don't think it actually works like that." He said it with just enough sneer that I knew he wasn't a Christian. And as he walked out the door, I said, "Well, we know it does actually work just like that."
We will never know this side of heaven whether Henry had a heart attack last night, but we do know we serve a mighty God. And He answers our prayers. Always.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Can't pull myself away.
I tried to make a post last night but had computer issues. And that bothered me so much.
I know this isn't a big deal, and it really doesn't matter in the grand scheme of things, but I wanted to make it to 30 days of posting. I try my best to be true to my word. So I want to do my best to make some kind of post every day, even if it's just a picture. But if it doesn't happen, well, that's okay, too. The main thing is I want to do my best.
So, NaBloPoMo Take 2.
And I'll even try to have a good post tomorrow.
I know this isn't a big deal, and it really doesn't matter in the grand scheme of things, but I wanted to make it to 30 days of posting. I try my best to be true to my word. So I want to do my best to make some kind of post every day, even if it's just a picture. But if it doesn't happen, well, that's okay, too. The main thing is I want to do my best.
So, NaBloPoMo Take 2.
And I'll even try to have a good post tomorrow.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
I give!
Alright, I give up! I cannot do this NaBloPoMo! I'm not cut out for it!
That is all.
I will be taking a few days off and who knows when I'll be back.
Ugh!
That is all.
I will be taking a few days off and who knows when I'll be back.
Ugh!
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