Thursday, December 28, 2006
Monday, December 18, 2006
Christmas readiness
Trying so hard to prepare for Christmas. I think there's a song by Frank Sinatra about Christmas that goes, "It's the most won-derful time of the year." I've re-written that song many times:
It's the most, stren-uous time of the year
The kids are all greedy
the charities needy
I've had it to HERE!!!!
It's the most, stren-uous time, of the year!
Except my kids aren't really greedy. For that, I am thankful. Ok. . .. maybe Ty's greedy, but he's so darn cute about it. (Yes Allie, if you read this; even when they're 17 you still think they're so darn cute.)
I have two "class" parties to get through tomorrow, then Wednesday we are meeting two students from Korea! I have emailed them, but I haven't heard from them. I'd like to call them, but I've heard they don't speak much English. I'll have to hope for the best.
So students are arriving, and the room they're staying in is a MESS. The bathroom they'll be using is A MESS. The kitchen, from today's class parties, is A MESS. The living room and dining room were carefully decorated by my daughters and look beautiful! I am grateful.
I have not finished Christmas shopping, and I still have things to mail. Ack.
(Did anyone else read Bloom County comics and remember Bill the Cat? He's the one to blame for the Acks.)
It's the most, stren-uous time of the year
The kids are all greedy
the charities needy
I've had it to HERE!!!!
It's the most, stren-uous time, of the year!
Except my kids aren't really greedy. For that, I am thankful. Ok. . .. maybe Ty's greedy, but he's so darn cute about it. (Yes Allie, if you read this; even when they're 17 you still think they're so darn cute.)
I have two "class" parties to get through tomorrow, then Wednesday we are meeting two students from Korea! I have emailed them, but I haven't heard from them. I'd like to call them, but I've heard they don't speak much English. I'll have to hope for the best.
So students are arriving, and the room they're staying in is a MESS. The bathroom they'll be using is A MESS. The kitchen, from today's class parties, is A MESS. The living room and dining room were carefully decorated by my daughters and look beautiful! I am grateful.
I have not finished Christmas shopping, and I still have things to mail. Ack.
(Did anyone else read Bloom County comics and remember Bill the Cat? He's the one to blame for the Acks.)
Friday, December 08, 2006
ACK!
I know there's a million and one things I'm supposed to be doing to prepare for Ty's graduation, but WHAT ARE THEY??? Arrgh!
Yes, I've started getting his photos together.
Yes, I'm making sure he takes the correct classes.
Yes, I've kept track of everything.
What else? Announcements? Purchase a cap and gown? Plan a party? He turns 18 in April and it's hard to read what he'd like for his birthday. I don't know if he'd like a party or not. :-( He'd probably like to go play paintball.
I feel like I'm holding down 6 or 7 volleyballs under water, and one of them is about to get away from me (the detail I'll have forgotten, I'm sure). Time to Pray!
They've also moved VBS up to the first week in June so the high school can go on a mission trip to Mexico. This means I will be dealing with Ty's graduation, have one week to prepare, then have VBS. I hope it goes well.
Yes, I've started getting his photos together.
Yes, I'm making sure he takes the correct classes.
Yes, I've kept track of everything.
What else? Announcements? Purchase a cap and gown? Plan a party? He turns 18 in April and it's hard to read what he'd like for his birthday. I don't know if he'd like a party or not. :-( He'd probably like to go play paintball.
I feel like I'm holding down 6 or 7 volleyballs under water, and one of them is about to get away from me (the detail I'll have forgotten, I'm sure). Time to Pray!
They've also moved VBS up to the first week in June so the high school can go on a mission trip to Mexico. This means I will be dealing with Ty's graduation, have one week to prepare, then have VBS. I hope it goes well.
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Tired
Went to the "Shoot Straight" shooting gallery last night with friends to celebrate Stacie's birthday. What an interesting place! I wonder what would happen if PETA found out about it. Dead animals everywhere. Still, I thought it was kind of cool. . . never realized how large a giraffe was, or how fierce a javalina can look. I should have taken pictures but I wasn't sure if I were allowed.
Here's the group of us. Julie is expecting her 7th child this month! She looks incredible for a woman with so many children, ages 12 to (soon to be) newborn. Her second youngest is 2.
We ate at a restaurant at one of the Disney hotels. It was delicious! Fun group of gals. We always enjoy each other. Ty suggested we go paint balling for someone's birthday, but only a few of the gals liked that idea. I think Stacie, Kim, and Beth Anne would be game. :-)
Monday, November 27, 2006
PNG
This is a picture of (towards the back) Chad, Janeene, and Elijah Mankins, plus their partners, Kellie and Jason Knapp, and their children. They are all serving as missionaries in Papua New Guinea among the Tobo. I have a link to the web blog kept by the Knapps to the right, titled, "Clay Pots." What's happening among the Tobo is so incredible! I highly recommend you read it.
The Madness Begins
Thanksgiving and the horrid "Black Friday," where everyone rushes to the mall and retail stores, is over. Now comes all the crazy Christmas shopping. Arrggh!
Last year, my Dad felt horrible because he was unable to buy gifts for everyone. There are signs promoting "Christmas Loans" so people can aquire debt at low interest rates for the holidays. When did celebrating the birth of our Savior become this, and what can I do to stop the madness?
For several years now, our family has hosted an international student or two (or four!) during Christmas. It's been fun to have them in our home and see what they think of Christmas in America. . . .we often wait to decorate our tree with them, buy them a small gift, but we especially tell them about the birth of the Savior being just a step to the Cross. We have never regretted doing this.
This year, however, we're not sure we'll be hosting a student. We've yet to be able to sit down as a family and discuss this! We're always so busy, and Tyler's schedule is crazy. In fact, there's usually only one night per week where we can have dinner together.
On another note: Here's a picture of the gang at paintball. They went for Danny Gines's bachelor party, or something like that.
:-D Looks crazy to me, and John had to ice his back for hours after he got home!
A few of my friends and I try to do something "Different" for our birthdays. Tyler has suggested we do paintball. I may have to take him up on that, though the thought scares me to death!
Last year, my Dad felt horrible because he was unable to buy gifts for everyone. There are signs promoting "Christmas Loans" so people can aquire debt at low interest rates for the holidays. When did celebrating the birth of our Savior become this, and what can I do to stop the madness?
For several years now, our family has hosted an international student or two (or four!) during Christmas. It's been fun to have them in our home and see what they think of Christmas in America. . . .we often wait to decorate our tree with them, buy them a small gift, but we especially tell them about the birth of the Savior being just a step to the Cross. We have never regretted doing this.
This year, however, we're not sure we'll be hosting a student. We've yet to be able to sit down as a family and discuss this! We're always so busy, and Tyler's schedule is crazy. In fact, there's usually only one night per week where we can have dinner together.
On another note: Here's a picture of the gang at paintball. They went for Danny Gines's bachelor party, or something like that.
:-D Looks crazy to me, and John had to ice his back for hours after he got home!
A few of my friends and I try to do something "Different" for our birthdays. Tyler has suggested we do paintball. I may have to take him up on that, though the thought scares me to death!
Sunday, November 19, 2006
Bourne Supremacy
Friday night John was at the men's retreat, the girls were staying the night with the Walters, and Ty was at work. I decided to put in a movie after chores.
Hmmm. . . Pride and Prejudice, or Bourne Supremacy? Since I had recently watched Bourne Identity, I chose the latter.
Big mistake.
I realized a schnauzer would be no protection against someone wanting to bust into the house to extract the secret information from me. Look how easily they got past security in the movie!
Only problem was, I really needed to take a shower.
I started the movie over from the beginning so there'd be some "noise." I locked the door in the bathroom and hopped into the shower. I did as much drying off and dressing as I could in the bathroom, then I covertly unlocked the door. With my hand on the doorhandle, I jerked the door open quickly and ran into my room, hoping to catch anyone "waiting to attack me" off guard. I think I may have even added a "HAAAH!!!" for good measure.
No one. Of course.
Tyler came home after 11:30 pm and I was sitting on the couch, grading papers, and letting the movie play itself out. Happy to see him home, I peacefully went to bed.
Next time, I'll choose Pride and Prejudice.
Hmmm. . . Pride and Prejudice, or Bourne Supremacy? Since I had recently watched Bourne Identity, I chose the latter.
Big mistake.
I realized a schnauzer would be no protection against someone wanting to bust into the house to extract the secret information from me. Look how easily they got past security in the movie!
Only problem was, I really needed to take a shower.
I started the movie over from the beginning so there'd be some "noise." I locked the door in the bathroom and hopped into the shower. I did as much drying off and dressing as I could in the bathroom, then I covertly unlocked the door. With my hand on the doorhandle, I jerked the door open quickly and ran into my room, hoping to catch anyone "waiting to attack me" off guard. I think I may have even added a "HAAAH!!!" for good measure.
No one. Of course.
Tyler came home after 11:30 pm and I was sitting on the couch, grading papers, and letting the movie play itself out. Happy to see him home, I peacefully went to bed.
Next time, I'll choose Pride and Prejudice.
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Tangles
Last night, John had to stay over in Sarasota for work. I climbed into the unmade bed and slept with the sheets gloriously tangled and out of order, finding the little niches of warmth where one end was still tucked in. I could pull the blanket over my shoulder and knew no one would roll over and pull it off again.
This morning, I of course woke with cold feet. It was fun while it lasted, but I felt a new determination to make the bed with fresh sheets and have everything nice and neat for him. How does he do that? How does he make me feel his presence when he's not even here? I made the bed not because he's a tyrant who refuses to sleep in wrinkled sheets, but because I know he appreciates "life's simple pleasures," like a freshly made bed, so much.
I played hooky from the Bible study last night and I accomplished so much! Laundry is practically caught up, kitchen and dining room are clean, bills are made out and paid. I'm ready to do school with Glenna, and later with Ty and Kelly. The band is coming over to practice today and I have plenty to do in my room while they occupy the living room. Oh! And I even cleaned out the corner behind the futon in our bedroom! I can step directly to my side of the closet now! Glory!
This morning, I of course woke with cold feet. It was fun while it lasted, but I felt a new determination to make the bed with fresh sheets and have everything nice and neat for him. How does he do that? How does he make me feel his presence when he's not even here? I made the bed not because he's a tyrant who refuses to sleep in wrinkled sheets, but because I know he appreciates "life's simple pleasures," like a freshly made bed, so much.
I played hooky from the Bible study last night and I accomplished so much! Laundry is practically caught up, kitchen and dining room are clean, bills are made out and paid. I'm ready to do school with Glenna, and later with Ty and Kelly. The band is coming over to practice today and I have plenty to do in my room while they occupy the living room. Oh! And I even cleaned out the corner behind the futon in our bedroom! I can step directly to my side of the closet now! Glory!
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Once again
Here I am, the same place I was last year when I realized I had to step down from the music team.
Laundry is not getting done, meals are not prepared as they should, and one of my children is "flying under the radar" with school. Of course, I don't notice until I check everything for the monthly grades I have to turn in!
Unfortunately, the thing I realize I'll have to let go of is the Bible study at Bonnie Lisech's. I don't know if it's because it moved to Tuesday nights instead of Mondays, but it's so much harder to do this year! (Gee, the three English classes, plus co-op, plus US History, plus AWANA JV that I teach couldn't have anything to do with it!
I have been giving one of my daughters the least of my time, and it shows. The other daughter and I had precious evenings together after I left the music team, and now that's gone. I actually said to my husband Sunday night, "I'm sorry, but I simply cannot listen to you right now. I MUST get this done!" Ouch. I'm dreading the approaching Sunday School quarter where John and I teach together - I'm thankful it's the 3-k's and a small class.
"Teach us to number our days aright, that we might gain a heart of wisdom." I think that's in 2 Timothy somewhere.
Laundry is not getting done, meals are not prepared as they should, and one of my children is "flying under the radar" with school. Of course, I don't notice until I check everything for the monthly grades I have to turn in!
Unfortunately, the thing I realize I'll have to let go of is the Bible study at Bonnie Lisech's. I don't know if it's because it moved to Tuesday nights instead of Mondays, but it's so much harder to do this year! (Gee, the three English classes, plus co-op, plus US History, plus AWANA JV that I teach couldn't have anything to do with it!
I have been giving one of my daughters the least of my time, and it shows. The other daughter and I had precious evenings together after I left the music team, and now that's gone. I actually said to my husband Sunday night, "I'm sorry, but I simply cannot listen to you right now. I MUST get this done!" Ouch. I'm dreading the approaching Sunday School quarter where John and I teach together - I'm thankful it's the 3-k's and a small class.
"Teach us to number our days aright, that we might gain a heart of wisdom." I think that's in 2 Timothy somewhere.
Sunday, November 12, 2006
It lives!
The tree outside John's window, a Golden Rain Tree (thanks, Phyllis!), is spouting tiny branches near the top. The stump is still about 9 ft. tall, and at the very top of a 2" stub are sproutings.
John is threatening to cut them off. :-)
Yesterday we had beds moved around, so the house is chaotic. My friend Cindy found a beautiful headboard and footboard for Kelly, so Glenna gets her old bed to make into the bunk beds. Glenna has a place for her "stuff" AND a place to sleep now, Kelly's in a new bed, Ty's in a new bed. Life is good. I remain chained to the washer and dryer.
Once again I know I've bitten off more than I can chew. John and I will be teaching the next Sunday School quarter, and that's fast approaching (Dec - Feb). Mark Liebert asked me to take care of music this week since the men will be on retreat. I realized just now I haven't graded papers for the intermediate class yet. I'm so sleepy lately, I've been taking a nap daily! Not just a light cat-nap, either, but crashing pretty hard for an hour or so. Makes me wonder what's up, because other than that I feel fine.
John is threatening to cut them off. :-)
Yesterday we had beds moved around, so the house is chaotic. My friend Cindy found a beautiful headboard and footboard for Kelly, so Glenna gets her old bed to make into the bunk beds. Glenna has a place for her "stuff" AND a place to sleep now, Kelly's in a new bed, Ty's in a new bed. Life is good. I remain chained to the washer and dryer.
Once again I know I've bitten off more than I can chew. John and I will be teaching the next Sunday School quarter, and that's fast approaching (Dec - Feb). Mark Liebert asked me to take care of music this week since the men will be on retreat. I realized just now I haven't graded papers for the intermediate class yet. I'm so sleepy lately, I've been taking a nap daily! Not just a light cat-nap, either, but crashing pretty hard for an hour or so. Makes me wonder what's up, because other than that I feel fine.
Monday, November 06, 2006
Festival Update
The Festival was so great! There seemed to be so many people we didn't know. About 10 people that we know of indicated a decision for Christ! An entire little family did! WOW!!!
I got to play bass guitar again (thanks Matt!), which was fun. Definite Zero rocked like they do. I had so many people come up and tell me how amazed they were with Tyler's playing. I know, because I'm amazed every week when he plays here at home. Sometimes I'll sit on his bed or the couch (wherever the drums happen to be) and just watch his feet while he plays. How wonderful to do something so complicated and make it look so fluid and effortless.
Even more fun was being on stage with Himself again. I guess I miss that part of not being on the music team anymore - participating in something with John. During the sets on Saturday I could turn around and look at him, and I know we were both thinking the same thing. "Isn't this so cool?" The music and songs in the second set were so wonderful, I couldn't help but worship God as we sang about Him.
I got to play bass guitar again (thanks Matt!), which was fun. Definite Zero rocked like they do. I had so many people come up and tell me how amazed they were with Tyler's playing. I know, because I'm amazed every week when he plays here at home. Sometimes I'll sit on his bed or the couch (wherever the drums happen to be) and just watch his feet while he plays. How wonderful to do something so complicated and make it look so fluid and effortless.
Even more fun was being on stage with Himself again. I guess I miss that part of not being on the music team anymore - participating in something with John. During the sets on Saturday I could turn around and look at him, and I know we were both thinking the same thing. "Isn't this so cool?" The music and songs in the second set were so wonderful, I couldn't help but worship God as we sang about Him.
Friday, November 03, 2006
Festival
Tomorrow's the Festival! I hope and pray there's a good turnout. There's so many great things going on this year!
You know, I don't even care if people come to this festival and then don't start coming to our church. I hope they come, hear the gospel, and are saved.
Definite Zero is playing (my favorite band). :-D I hope the teens have invited friends who aren't churched, so they can come and hear the gospel! How wonderful would that be?
Right now I just survived a 4.5 hour practice. I need sleep and a shower, and I think it will have to be in that order.
You know, I don't even care if people come to this festival and then don't start coming to our church. I hope they come, hear the gospel, and are saved.
Definite Zero is playing (my favorite band). :-D I hope the teens have invited friends who aren't churched, so they can come and hear the gospel! How wonderful would that be?
Right now I just survived a 4.5 hour practice. I need sleep and a shower, and I think it will have to be in that order.
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
HA!
Yesterday, after staring out of his office window and seeing nothing but a bare, ugly trunk, my husband sheepishly confessed, " You were right about the tree."
(See post titled, "October".)
I want to go outside with a Sharpie and draw a smiley face on one of the branch stumps for him. :-)
We have a cold front today! Thank you, Lord! I can wear long sleeves and MAYBE a sweater!
(See post titled, "October".)
I want to go outside with a Sharpie and draw a smiley face on one of the branch stumps for him. :-)
We have a cold front today! Thank you, Lord! I can wear long sleeves and MAYBE a sweater!
Monday, October 23, 2006
Surprise Party Photos
Here are some pictures from my surprise party on September 22nd. I had so much fun! I especially enjoyed the comments from my "older" friends who assured me 40 was extremely young.
Me, laughing and crying at the same time.
Hug from John, biggest sap.
Tyler's confession of why he didn't go to work that night!
Beth Anne and Stacie, my dearest friends and conspirators. :-)
October
It's so hot. We've even reached 92 degrees! There's supposed to be a cold front moving in this week. I PRAY it's true. I feel nothing but hot all the time.
October heat is the worst, because it's SUPPOSED to be fall!
The neighbor cut down a beautiful tree between their property and ours. Kelly enjoyed looking at it from her window. I enjoyed the tiny yellow flowers it would produce, then these pink blooms would follow. (I know you who are horticulturally minded would be able to tell me the name of the tree. They're quite common in Florida. I only know it's not a crepe myrtle.) Anyway, what Kelly and I saw as beautiful, the menfolk saw as a "messmaker" and decided it should come down. Now there's nothing but a bare trunk outside the window, which I'm sure they'll gleefully dispose of once a chainsaw is found.
Time to prepare for English students.
October heat is the worst, because it's SUPPOSED to be fall!
The neighbor cut down a beautiful tree between their property and ours. Kelly enjoyed looking at it from her window. I enjoyed the tiny yellow flowers it would produce, then these pink blooms would follow. (I know you who are horticulturally minded would be able to tell me the name of the tree. They're quite common in Florida. I only know it's not a crepe myrtle.) Anyway, what Kelly and I saw as beautiful, the menfolk saw as a "messmaker" and decided it should come down. Now there's nothing but a bare trunk outside the window, which I'm sure they'll gleefully dispose of once a chainsaw is found.
Time to prepare for English students.
Saturday, October 21, 2006
School Room
John received a quarterly bonus, so at last we can begin finishing the garage! We have already installed new windows, a new roll-up door, and new French doors. Now we need to buy furring strips, insulation, and sheet rock (in Cali we call it drywall). Oh, and all the electrical stuff.
There are currently six classes taking place in our home; three English composition, one Spanish 2, and one US History. Oh, and I have co-op with two other families on Monday afternoons.
Is it selfish to want school stuff out so I can have a HOME again? I don't know how Kathy Robertson has done it all these years, teaching classes out of her living room. I know she's taught my own kids for 6 or 7 years, and she's still teaching Kelly this year!
Our hope is to convert the garage into a classroom, and when we're finished with this school stuff it can be a guest house or an office for John. He's using our guest room as an office currently.
I can't wait for work to begin!
There are currently six classes taking place in our home; three English composition, one Spanish 2, and one US History. Oh, and I have co-op with two other families on Monday afternoons.
Is it selfish to want school stuff out so I can have a HOME again? I don't know how Kathy Robertson has done it all these years, teaching classes out of her living room. I know she's taught my own kids for 6 or 7 years, and she's still teaching Kelly this year!
Our hope is to convert the garage into a classroom, and when we're finished with this school stuff it can be a guest house or an office for John. He's using our guest room as an office currently.
I can't wait for work to begin!
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
October
Well, we're back to being warm. As I recall, I've sweated during Thanksgiving before, so we're not into the coolness yet. Phyllis Hunsucker says they have snow! I don't think I want to be THAT cold, but a cool breeze would be lovely.
John got the promotion and they'll be paying for him to go to school. They want him to have a bachelors in business. I think he's starting to come around to school being a good thing. I also hope we can find a private college who can help us turn some of his life experience into college credits. After all, he has owned and operated his own business for many years. That should be worth something!
I have hit the crazy time of year where I feel I'm not doing the things I'm supposed to do. This means I have taken on too many projects, probably. It's hard to say no when it's all good, though! Or maybe I just need to learn to delegate. I wonder to whom I could delegate the laundry?
Tyler, Kelly and I are studying the Old Testament for their "Bible" credit. We've decided to do Jewish History, so we're starting with Abraham! I'm in no hurry. . . they'll get a year of Bible, we'll have a blessed time in the Word, and they'll get a high school credit to boot. I'm making them take notes so they have something to put in their portfolio.
Time for AWANA!
John got the promotion and they'll be paying for him to go to school. They want him to have a bachelors in business. I think he's starting to come around to school being a good thing. I also hope we can find a private college who can help us turn some of his life experience into college credits. After all, he has owned and operated his own business for many years. That should be worth something!
I have hit the crazy time of year where I feel I'm not doing the things I'm supposed to do. This means I have taken on too many projects, probably. It's hard to say no when it's all good, though! Or maybe I just need to learn to delegate. I wonder to whom I could delegate the laundry?
Tyler, Kelly and I are studying the Old Testament for their "Bible" credit. We've decided to do Jewish History, so we're starting with Abraham! I'm in no hurry. . . they'll get a year of Bible, we'll have a blessed time in the Word, and they'll get a high school credit to boot. I'm making them take notes so they have something to put in their portfolio.
Time for AWANA!
Monday, October 09, 2006
At last!
There's coolness in the air in the mornings! Real coolness, without the humidity to go with it. Could this be the swing toward fall that I've been waiting for? I think I'll refill the coffee cup and work on my Bible study outside. I love this time of year!
Friday, October 06, 2006
Job Watch part 3
It looks like John doesn't have to go to Cleveland after all. The guy he was to interview with came here instead. I'm glad of that, though Cleveland could have been an adventure for him.
John will be getting an offer either today or tomorrow on the promotion. He will become the Property Services Representative for the STATE of Florida. He had trouble sleeping last night, with so many things going through his head! We all know he has been training for this job since he was 19 or so. . . it's amazing how God has gone before him in this.
The other thing they told him is to go back to school at their expense. He's not as happy about this as I am, but I think he's just intimidated. They want to invest in him, so they want him to have a Bachelors in Business. I told him he'd be a FOOL not to do this! Especially when there are so many on line courses he could take, there's no reason/excuse not to go back to school.
I'm so proud of him! He's worked so hard all his life (so far). I'm talking hard, physical labor! Now that his back is no longer able to do that, God has given him work suited to him. I'm so thankful.
John will be getting an offer either today or tomorrow on the promotion. He will become the Property Services Representative for the STATE of Florida. He had trouble sleeping last night, with so many things going through his head! We all know he has been training for this job since he was 19 or so. . . it's amazing how God has gone before him in this.
The other thing they told him is to go back to school at their expense. He's not as happy about this as I am, but I think he's just intimidated. They want to invest in him, so they want him to have a Bachelors in Business. I told him he'd be a FOOL not to do this! Especially when there are so many on line courses he could take, there's no reason/excuse not to go back to school.
I'm so proud of him! He's worked so hard all his life (so far). I'm talking hard, physical labor! Now that his back is no longer able to do that, God has given him work suited to him. I'm so thankful.
Thursday, October 05, 2006
Is it Fall Yet?
I felt a hint of fall when I went outside yesterday, but today is back to being warm. I'm so looking forward to tea or coffee on the front porch, or in the back yard! I'm looking forward to NOT hearing the hum of the air conditioner. Of course, opening the house means closing the sinuses to allergies. :-)
I had an epiphany yesterday when the girls and I were out looking at a black racer snake in the back yard. It was zipping along through these tiny, white flowers (called weeds!), and around the tiny, yellow flowers falling off the neighbor's tree.
In the back of my mind were all the thoughts of what I "needed" to be doing. Laundry, preparing an AWANA lesson, journaling, writing thank you notes from my birthday, correcting English papers, preparing for a history class, getting dinner going, clearing off my cluttered desk, teaching Glenna about beavers, etc. It's my heart's desire to do all those things, and yet I hardly do any of them well.
And yet, here's perfectly shaped, miniscule flowers crafted by God. A black snake races along without any legs, also designed by God. Two beautiful girls (designed by God) laugh and swing on the tree - designed by God. Not one of these things are less than His exact design and purpose.
I can't do everything well.
God does ALL things well.
I am not God.
Thank God.
I had an epiphany yesterday when the girls and I were out looking at a black racer snake in the back yard. It was zipping along through these tiny, white flowers (called weeds!), and around the tiny, yellow flowers falling off the neighbor's tree.
In the back of my mind were all the thoughts of what I "needed" to be doing. Laundry, preparing an AWANA lesson, journaling, writing thank you notes from my birthday, correcting English papers, preparing for a history class, getting dinner going, clearing off my cluttered desk, teaching Glenna about beavers, etc. It's my heart's desire to do all those things, and yet I hardly do any of them well.
And yet, here's perfectly shaped, miniscule flowers crafted by God. A black snake races along without any legs, also designed by God. Two beautiful girls (designed by God) laugh and swing on the tree - designed by God. Not one of these things are less than His exact design and purpose.
I can't do everything well.
God does ALL things well.
I am not God.
Thank God.
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
Life
I was talking to my kids yesterday and said, "Isn't life so incredible right now?"
The older two shook their heads, indicating that it wasn't. They could see how life would be really good for ME at this stage, but for them it's all about SCHOOL and therefore less than stellar.
I refrained from giving them the, "I wish I were back in school, doing it all over again!" I think they were relieved.
I don't wish I were back in school, though. Especially with crazed gunmen now targeting schools, girls in particular, for their murderous schemes. I am more thankful than ever to have my children home for school! Kelly wants to visit a school today with her youth group as a service project, to tutor and mentor elementary kids. It's all I can do not to grab on to her and not let her go!
So, can I trust God in ALL things, or just SOME things? We all know the answer to that.
Life is so wonderful right now. . . it's the rest of the world that's scary.
The older two shook their heads, indicating that it wasn't. They could see how life would be really good for ME at this stage, but for them it's all about SCHOOL and therefore less than stellar.
I refrained from giving them the, "I wish I were back in school, doing it all over again!" I think they were relieved.
I don't wish I were back in school, though. Especially with crazed gunmen now targeting schools, girls in particular, for their murderous schemes. I am more thankful than ever to have my children home for school! Kelly wants to visit a school today with her youth group as a service project, to tutor and mentor elementary kids. It's all I can do not to grab on to her and not let her go!
So, can I trust God in ALL things, or just SOME things? We all know the answer to that.
Life is so wonderful right now. . . it's the rest of the world that's scary.
Monday, October 02, 2006
Migraine Blues
I had to stay home from church yesterday with migraine. I can usually stop them if I catch them within 15 minutes, but I woke with this one and it was too late.
I really wish I knew what caused them! I feel like I'm always on the verge of one and constantly on Excedrine. I really need to get to a doctor and make sure there's not something simple I could do or avoid.
Speaking of doctors. .. I don't know why I haven't gone. I finally have medical insurance, have had it for almost two years, and I still haven't gone! Why is it so hard to pick up the phone and make an appointment? This is ridiculous!
Maybe it's because I haven't had insurance so I don't know what to do with it? Plus, everyone's schedule is getting so crazy, I have to make sure someone is home with Glenna. Yeah. That's it.
That's my excuse, anyway.
I really wish I knew what caused them! I feel like I'm always on the verge of one and constantly on Excedrine. I really need to get to a doctor and make sure there's not something simple I could do or avoid.
Speaking of doctors. .. I don't know why I haven't gone. I finally have medical insurance, have had it for almost two years, and I still haven't gone! Why is it so hard to pick up the phone and make an appointment? This is ridiculous!
Maybe it's because I haven't had insurance so I don't know what to do with it? Plus, everyone's schedule is getting so crazy, I have to make sure someone is home with Glenna. Yeah. That's it.
That's my excuse, anyway.
Saturday, September 30, 2006
Budgeting Blues
Arrrgghhh!!!! I'm so tired of dealing with money. I'm really no good at it! I always spend too much on things like FOOD.
I feel like we need to go back to the Larry Burkett envelopes. Grrrrr.
I feel like we need to go back to the Larry Burkett envelopes. Grrrrr.
Thursday, September 28, 2006
He Did It!
John was able to save an important account for his company! He's the current "Golden Boy" and we'll ride the enjoyment of that as long as we can. His boss was wanting to take him to dinner, golfing, etc. . . told him to take the rest of the day off. He received kudos from the top of the company on down. I keep saying, "Cross our palms with gratitude!" ;-D Truly, God has used this company to more than meet our needs. We are so very thankful.
My Dad called from Arkansas yesterday and we chatted for about 30 minutes. His double-wide trailer had arrived and he was sitting in the shade, watching them put the two halves together. He talked with me about his plans to build a deck by the end of next week, where the garden will go, and other items. I'm beginning to feel thankful that he's out of California at last and at least a LITTLE closer to me. I'm currently talking to the family about driving out and seeing Dad at Christmas. That would be great!
Anyone know anything about Harrison, Arkansas?
My Dad called from Arkansas yesterday and we chatted for about 30 minutes. His double-wide trailer had arrived and he was sitting in the shade, watching them put the two halves together. He talked with me about his plans to build a deck by the end of next week, where the garden will go, and other items. I'm beginning to feel thankful that he's out of California at last and at least a LITTLE closer to me. I'm currently talking to the family about driving out and seeing Dad at Christmas. That would be great!
Anyone know anything about Harrison, Arkansas?
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Tea for Me!
I just love how God cares about the smallest details in our lives.
This summer, we vacationed with two other families in North Carolina. Us ladies visited the Biltmore House and had high tea at the Biltmore Inn. I had this jasmine tea that was so heavenly. .. tastes like herbal tea, but with each sip you breathe in the aroma of jasmine. We wanted to find out how to buy it, but left before the waitress could give us the web site. I was disappointed!
Flash forward to my birthday. Ruby Bowyer gave me this adorable tea infuser and [drum roll] a container of Jasmine tea! OH, heaven! She said she found it in California. Since most of the writing on the tin is in Chinese characters, I'm going to check out the local Asian market to see if they carry it. I LOVE loose-leaf tea, and the weather WILL eventually turn cooler so I may enjoy it on the porch.
Thank You, Abba!
This summer, we vacationed with two other families in North Carolina. Us ladies visited the Biltmore House and had high tea at the Biltmore Inn. I had this jasmine tea that was so heavenly. .. tastes like herbal tea, but with each sip you breathe in the aroma of jasmine. We wanted to find out how to buy it, but left before the waitress could give us the web site. I was disappointed!
Flash forward to my birthday. Ruby Bowyer gave me this adorable tea infuser and [drum roll] a container of Jasmine tea! OH, heaven! She said she found it in California. Since most of the writing on the tin is in Chinese characters, I'm going to check out the local Asian market to see if they carry it. I LOVE loose-leaf tea, and the weather WILL eventually turn cooler so I may enjoy it on the porch.
Thank You, Abba!
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Job Alert 2
Well, John's going to Cleveland in a couple of weeks for interviews. This is for the Property Services Manager position for Florida, the job he originally wanted before this other thing crops up. His feeling is that he'll be doing both jobs until one starts to demand more than the other (not impossible, I hope!).
This is so exciting for him! He's headed to Cleveland for all the interviews, which means this promotion is really happening (truly, he's the one his boss has slated for the job). I've been calling him "Executive Man" all week, formerly known as "Substrate Man." I'm excited for him!
I know we'll help keep him grounded and real, as will all his friends. He knows that with one word from me, his buddies will be on him like [enter favorite John saying here] and snap him out of it.
This is so exciting for him! He's headed to Cleveland for all the interviews, which means this promotion is really happening (truly, he's the one his boss has slated for the job). I've been calling him "Executive Man" all week, formerly known as "Substrate Man." I'm excited for him!
I know we'll help keep him grounded and real, as will all his friends. He knows that with one word from me, his buddies will be on him like [enter favorite John saying here] and snap him out of it.
Monday, September 25, 2006
Oops
I was obviously still sleepy when I wrote the blog below. I meant MONDAY, not MODAY. Just what IS a Moday, anyway?
Moday
What a great weekend with my family! I feel like we celebrated my birthday all weekend long. Now I have to do extra chores around the house to make up for it. Still, I feel so blessed!
It's Monday, and that means back to the grind. I love the English class I have today. . .they're all 5th and 6th grade and they're so cute! They don't talk nonstop (or pass notes, or WHATEVER) like my intermediate class. I love them.
Thought I'd post this picture of Kelly and her friend, Kate. It's too cool.
It's Monday, and that means back to the grind. I love the English class I have today. . .they're all 5th and 6th grade and they're so cute! They don't talk nonstop (or pass notes, or WHATEVER) like my intermediate class. I love them.
Thought I'd post this picture of Kelly and her friend, Kate. It's too cool.
I wish she had gotten her eyes from her Mamma!
Saturday, September 23, 2006
Wow!
A surprise party for me! I was completely blown away!!! I'm still (obviously, it's almost 1 am) excited about it!
I can't thank everyone enough for coming. Beth Anne and Stacie did such a fabulous job! I had NO idea.
My favorite gift has to be "Splat the Cat." The Rigels made a cat, complete with wounds and tire marks, to honor my Free Cat picture. I'm so glad someone else's sense of humor is as twisted as mine!
Matt Snyder was my personal photographer. Can't wait to see the pictures.
The Eulogies were hysterical!
A million thank yous to everyone who came, for the gifts and gift cards. . . .I've truly never had a birthday like it!
I can't thank everyone enough for coming. Beth Anne and Stacie did such a fabulous job! I had NO idea.
My favorite gift has to be "Splat the Cat." The Rigels made a cat, complete with wounds and tire marks, to honor my Free Cat picture. I'm so glad someone else's sense of humor is as twisted as mine!
Matt Snyder was my personal photographer. Can't wait to see the pictures.
The Eulogies were hysterical!
A million thank yous to everyone who came, for the gifts and gift cards. . . .I've truly never had a birthday like it!
Friday, September 22, 2006
Wasp, Yellow Jacket, or Hornet?
I don't know the difference between the three, exactly, but one of them stung me yesterday and my arm is still hurting. I have much more compassion for Mark Liebert and Ty who were both stung repeatedly on our vacation (I think Scarborough was stung, too). There was a nest under our mailbox and when I shut the flap, it flew out and stung me! My bug lady took care of it for me (happened to be coming that day) so the mailman was safe.
Ty has been stung about 6 times in his lifetime. Ouch! It's nothing like a bee sting or an ant bite!
Ty has been stung about 6 times in his lifetime. Ouch! It's nothing like a bee sting or an ant bite!
Thursday, September 21, 2006
One thing more
I have the girls up. Here's Ty - Senior picture. Thanks, Shaan Ware!
Ty has a concert this weekend in Kissimmee. Go Definite Zero! www.myspace.com/definitezero
Ty has a concert this weekend in Kissimmee. Go Definite Zero! www.myspace.com/definitezero
Trek
We have such a young group of JV kids at AWANA this year. We have averaged 11 kids per night, and only 4 of those are 8th graders. Wow. It makes for a different dynamic, but it makes it interesting!
I'm thankful for Zach, Matt, and Tyler playing worship music for us before we start. I hope these kids get a glimpse of the joy of worshipping God through music! JVers are so self-conscience. . . it will take them a while to loosen up, I'm sure.
Stephen Gann has also been incredible! He's much more friendly with the kids this year. I appreciate him so much!
Now we just need a director. I still feel the majority of the burden falls on me, though I was hoping to only teach and listen to verses this year. I don't want to sell these kids short by giving them a so-so club year.
I'm thankful for Zach, Matt, and Tyler playing worship music for us before we start. I hope these kids get a glimpse of the joy of worshipping God through music! JVers are so self-conscience. . . it will take them a while to loosen up, I'm sure.
Stephen Gann has also been incredible! He's much more friendly with the kids this year. I appreciate him so much!
Now we just need a director. I still feel the majority of the burden falls on me, though I was hoping to only teach and listen to verses this year. I don't want to sell these kids short by giving them a so-so club year.
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Job Watch
So, John comes home and talks about this new job possibility with his current company. Evidently, he came up with some brilliant ideas that his company wants to pursue. There will be only 4 people on this team nationwide, and he'd be one of them. This would probably mean a lot more travel for him.
So far, his company has delivered on all its promises. This is both exciting and scary! I don't know why I haven't learned to trust God in all things yet. I know full well I can trust him with this as well. I can't help but fear the unknown a little. As he was describing all of this to me, I suddenly invisioned myself as a single parent (not because he'll leave us, but because he'll not be home). His job is pretty consuming right now and I already feel 85% (or more) of the burden of raising our children, because I'm home schooling, I guess.
Part of me feels I'm his "Helper Suitable" and I'm here to enable him to do whatever he needs to do. This could be an exciting career move for him! I know he'd be doing what he loves the most, and he'd do what he's been training to do for the last 20 years.
The other part of me feels like this has danger potential. I know how driven he can become. I know how hard it will be for him to take time off regularly. I'm concerned about it damaging our relationship as well, which is just beginning to mend over a pretty rough year.
Psalm 3:5, anyone?
So far, his company has delivered on all its promises. This is both exciting and scary! I don't know why I haven't learned to trust God in all things yet. I know full well I can trust him with this as well. I can't help but fear the unknown a little. As he was describing all of this to me, I suddenly invisioned myself as a single parent (not because he'll leave us, but because he'll not be home). His job is pretty consuming right now and I already feel 85% (or more) of the burden of raising our children, because I'm home schooling, I guess.
Part of me feels I'm his "Helper Suitable" and I'm here to enable him to do whatever he needs to do. This could be an exciting career move for him! I know he'd be doing what he loves the most, and he'd do what he's been training to do for the last 20 years.
The other part of me feels like this has danger potential. I know how driven he can become. I know how hard it will be for him to take time off regularly. I'm concerned about it damaging our relationship as well, which is just beginning to mend over a pretty rough year.
Psalm 3:5, anyone?
Monday, September 18, 2006
New Mexico
I thought I'd put some pictures up from our New Mexico trip. If I had my way, we'd go out there every Thanksgiving. It was so good to be home! (See previous post.) This is Kelly and Glenna on the trail at the Catwalk in Glenwood.
This is Glenna near the water at the Catwalk. If we had thought ahead, we would have brought better clothes to swim in.
The girls and I with Dad (Grandpa Jeff). We're at a canyon area just south of Glenwood. Compared to Florida, NM is so brown. Trust me when I say it has a beauty all its own!
Brother
Yesterday was my brother's birthday. I rarely have a phone number for him, nor do I know where he is right now! It's hard. . . but I know he's doing better than he has been in a long, long time. Happy Birthday, Boyd! Wherever you are!
Sunday, September 17, 2006
Lost
Ok, so we got hooked on the show, "Lost."
We don't have TV, so we rent DVDs or borrow them from the library. We've watched Alias this way, plus the first season of 24. It's great! No commercials, fast forward through the stuff we don't want to see.
The second season of Lost came out and we've already watched all of it. Well, John and I have. The kids are each on their own episode. None of us seem to be home at the same time to watch it together! The 3rd season has just started on TV, so we have to wait even longer for it to be released on DVD. What a cliff-hanger, too!
It would probably be best to find a series that has started and ended, so we can watch it all.
Or, we could find something more constructive to do. Like underwater basket weaving.
We don't have TV, so we rent DVDs or borrow them from the library. We've watched Alias this way, plus the first season of 24. It's great! No commercials, fast forward through the stuff we don't want to see.
The second season of Lost came out and we've already watched all of it. Well, John and I have. The kids are each on their own episode. None of us seem to be home at the same time to watch it together! The 3rd season has just started on TV, so we have to wait even longer for it to be released on DVD. What a cliff-hanger, too!
It would probably be best to find a series that has started and ended, so we can watch it all.
Or, we could find something more constructive to do. Like underwater basket weaving.
Saturday, September 16, 2006
He's here!
We didn't have to wait, since Jeremy and Allie's beautiful son, Iain Mark, arrived at 6:00 am Friday morning. His pictures are so beautiful! I can only imagine how dreamy-soft his skin is. John calls me the "baby hog" and is surprised I'm not over there yet to pig him up.
He should know better! Us ladies at church have our own sneaky ways of seeing the baby. . . we bring a meal. ;-)
Congratulations, Jeremy and Allie!
He should know better! Us ladies at church have our own sneaky ways of seeing the baby. . . we bring a meal. ;-)
Congratulations, Jeremy and Allie!
Thursday, September 14, 2006
Our turn to wait!
One of my favorite people in the world is in labor right now with her first child. I haven't heard any information since 10:30 last night, when her mother called to say she was in early labor. I'm certainly praying, without ceasing!
When we first came to Circle, Allie and her sisters Kelsey, Jenna, and Haylee took special interest in my children. Since John and I were both on the music team and Glenna was still so young, Allie would sit with her until we would finish our set. Most times, Glenna would fall asleep on her and either sweat or drool all over her, but she never minded! Glenna loves Allie so much to this day!
I love you so much, Allie! You and Jeremy are going to be such terrific parents. I can't wait to hold your little one and let it fall asleep on me or drool all over!
Praying and praying. . . . .
When we first came to Circle, Allie and her sisters Kelsey, Jenna, and Haylee took special interest in my children. Since John and I were both on the music team and Glenna was still so young, Allie would sit with her until we would finish our set. Most times, Glenna would fall asleep on her and either sweat or drool all over her, but she never minded! Glenna loves Allie so much to this day!
I love you so much, Allie! You and Jeremy are going to be such terrific parents. I can't wait to hold your little one and let it fall asleep on me or drool all over!
Praying and praying. . . . .
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
This picture has caused mixed reactions from my friends. I found it hysterical. . .not because the poor cat got run over (darn owners. . . keep your cats at home!) but because someone actually stopped and put a sign there!
Plus, those who know me, know how I feel about cats. ;-)
The house across the street, the house next to that one, and the house behind us all have cats. We're the cat highway. They're constantly coming here to use the bathroom, lounge on my bench cushions and leave their hair, and we're their trysting place. I can't tell you how many times we've heard the horrible yowling on our front porch! I've yanked open the door and sent them on their way.
It's time like this I miss Blaze the most. I would say, "Blaze! Get the cat!" and she'd lumber her 85 pound frame to her feet, charge to the door, and "escort" the cat off our property. I can't really send Jack, the schnauzer, since he's less likely to return in a timely manner.
Monday, September 11, 2006
Home
Took me forever to figure out how to make a new blog. This is crazy. I must be missing something.
I'm fighting a migraine today (dull but painful ache right now) and weird things go through my mind when that happens. For one thing, I can't for the life of me remember the name of the lady who sang in The Sound of Music. I keep wanting to say Sandy Duncan, but I know that's not it. It's not Florence Henderson either.
The Women's Retreat was wonderful. I don't like going to retreats (takes weeks to catch up on sleep) but as a discipline, I make myself go. I KNOW God has something for me there and I would hate to miss it.
Julie Andrews. Her name was Julie Andrews, right?
Anyway, I'm home, or as much as one can call it home. It's home because the ones I love the most live here!
I was "home" in June, though, when the girls and I flew to New Mexico. I've never actually lived in New Mexico, but my family is from there (only by next older brother and I were born in CA, everyone else was NM) and it will always be home to me.
My Glenna was given a pair of Durango boots for Christmas, and when we got to Mom's ranch she was presented with a pair of spurs. She immediately took them off and wore them the entire time we were at the ranch. In Glenwood, this is not an uncommon sight! When we drove over to the ranch of our life-long friends, John and Cathy Murphy, John said the most hysterical thing when he noticed Glenna's spurs: "So, Glenna. Have you been topping off the rough string this morning?" :-D I laughed so hard!
When we got back to Florida, I repeated this hilarious account to my friends.
No one got it.
No one knew what a rough string was, much less how to "top off" one.
At that moment, I felt I had come so far from home. I was so homesick!
Back in New Mexico, I was surrounded by family, friends, and the culture of my youth. Here, I am surrounded by beloved friends alone.
I don't want to leave Florida, but I DO, just a little bit, want to go back to my roots and the "suit" that fits me best.
Yes, I'm going country.
I'm fighting a migraine today (dull but painful ache right now) and weird things go through my mind when that happens. For one thing, I can't for the life of me remember the name of the lady who sang in The Sound of Music. I keep wanting to say Sandy Duncan, but I know that's not it. It's not Florence Henderson either.
The Women's Retreat was wonderful. I don't like going to retreats (takes weeks to catch up on sleep) but as a discipline, I make myself go. I KNOW God has something for me there and I would hate to miss it.
Julie Andrews. Her name was Julie Andrews, right?
Anyway, I'm home, or as much as one can call it home. It's home because the ones I love the most live here!
I was "home" in June, though, when the girls and I flew to New Mexico. I've never actually lived in New Mexico, but my family is from there (only by next older brother and I were born in CA, everyone else was NM) and it will always be home to me.
My Glenna was given a pair of Durango boots for Christmas, and when we got to Mom's ranch she was presented with a pair of spurs. She immediately took them off and wore them the entire time we were at the ranch. In Glenwood, this is not an uncommon sight! When we drove over to the ranch of our life-long friends, John and Cathy Murphy, John said the most hysterical thing when he noticed Glenna's spurs: "So, Glenna. Have you been topping off the rough string this morning?" :-D I laughed so hard!
When we got back to Florida, I repeated this hilarious account to my friends.
No one got it.
No one knew what a rough string was, much less how to "top off" one.
At that moment, I felt I had come so far from home. I was so homesick!
Back in New Mexico, I was surrounded by family, friends, and the culture of my youth. Here, I am surrounded by beloved friends alone.
I don't want to leave Florida, but I DO, just a little bit, want to go back to my roots and the "suit" that fits me best.
Yes, I'm going country.
Sunday, August 06, 2006
New Beginnings
I'm not so sure about the myspace thing anymore, so I decided to go to straight journaling. I love to write and hope to use this as a creative outlet. Who knows what will become of it? Who knows if anyone will really read it.
Of course I can't write now. John's talking to me.
:-)
Of course I can't write now. John's talking to me.
:-)
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