Life Does Not Stop For Christmas...but we'd better

It's true it's a busy time of year, and nerves tend to get stretched, along with the budgets. I keep saying, "Life does not stop for Christmas", and it is so true. You have more baking, more spending, more events to attend, and more more more, but you still have laundry, dishes, appointments, children, bills, etc... Life does not politely get out of the way so you can celebrate. But isn't that sad?

Shouldn't our hearts be in better shape than this? I know I have not had the greatest Christmas spirit lately. I am no busier than anyone else, it's just that healthwise, I just don't stretch that well. I get overwhelmed to the point of not really being present. I don't know if that describes you at all, but if it does, you're not alone.

I have enjoyed all the things we've done lately, like the trip to Frankenmuth with my parents. The Christmas concert at Warriner, the Bethlehem walk at our church, the party with our friends, and the many more things to come. Really, I have enjoyed them, it's just that it has crowded my spirit. Do you feel this way too? Crowded? Like, where is Jesus in all of this? That's the way I feel. I need some time to be alone with God and thank him for being the Giver and the Gift. It's time to put away everything else and focus on Him. Or why do all of this at all?

That's my old sled from childhood. I took our annual Christmas card photos yesterday, and the sled was a great prop! The girls were in great spirits, being silly as usual. They are so much fun at Christmas time. I took several pictures and it was so much fun. This has become quite a tradition. At the concert Tuesday night, an old photo of my girls flashed on the big screen during a song called "Christmas through the eyes of a child". I saw Serena at 4 years old, with her head on her sister's shoulder, and I sat there and blubbered. Yes, this is what the Christmas season does to me. No sleep. Stress. Crying at the silliest things. So embarassing. Anyway.......

Oh, and if I hear one more person tell me my "kids are looking so grown up", or "wow. They are getting so big!" or "what are they--15 now?" If I hear one more reference to how fast my girls are growing up, I will either scream or have a nervous breakdown. SO PLEASE, to spare my heart from further ripping, do not tell me how old my little girls look. I just can't take it anymore!

I hope that you will take some time and enjoy this season and what it means to you. I hope you will get the kids together watch Rudolph or Charlie Brown with them. (2 of our faves). I hope you will stop baking long enough to call a long lost friend and say Merry Christmas. I hope you truly feel the spirit of Christmas in all that you do this season. I hope it is all you dreamed of and more, and I hope you stay healthy through it all.

God bless you and MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Snowed In?

It was no surprise to see all the new snow on Wednesday. After all, we do live in Michigan. It's hard to surprise us with any change in the weather. Tomorrow could be balmy. Who knows? So, yesterday was dicey, but it wasn't all the weather's fault. Steve left the house at 5am on his way to MBS. He was headed on a 3 day tour (think Gilligan), starting in Philly. I was a nervous wreck about him leaving. Maybe it's because I don't like him leaving so close to Christmas. Maybe it's because I knew the storm was coming. Whatever the reason, I didn't want him to go this time. I called his cell to make sure he made it safely to the airport, and he was just waiting to board. I couldn't get back to sleep, so I got up and headed out to shovel the driveway. We do have a mammoth snow blower, which I've never learned to use. Besides, the snow was wet and heavy, and it's hard to blow that kind of snow. I had a headache and wasn't feeling great, school had been canceled, so the burden of having to get the girls around was lifted, but oh, shoveling that snow was going to be a bear! It was about 7am when the girls pajamed into the kitchen. I guess their alarms went off. OOPSY. Thought I shut them off. Must have turned them on. :)

Serena was so excited about the snow that she was pulling on her outdoor wear, already planning her snowman. I smiled at her and said, "hey, sweetie, it's pitch black out there. why don't you wait a bit?" She followed me out to the driveway, where we took turns moving that heavy snow out of the way. I was expecting a UPS delivery too, so I had to do the front walk. With my headache and a night of bad sleep, I was feeling pretty rough, but having Serena's cheerful company made my temperament improve. Serena couldn't resist throwing herself down backwards into the snow several times between her turn to shovel. I was surprised she could move any snow at all. It was so wet and heavy. The Christmas lights looked gorgeous and it was absolutely quiet out here in the woods. Two slow cars went by and I said a prayer for both. In the midst of the storm, it was peaceful.

We came back in for hot drinks, and the phone rang. The plane was going to be delayed by several hours. The Philly airport was having some ice issues too. I breathed a sigh of relief and kept praying for the whole trip to cancel. I got my prayer answered about an hour later, when they decided to postpone the whole trip. So, after I could finally relax, I made a big pot of chili and put some finishing touches on my decorating. Natalie couldn't wait to get out and build a special snowman on the deck for me to see from the kitchen. Isn't she clever??

This is Nat's way of saying, "hey, mom, could you bake us some cookies??"
Sunglasses, tanning lotion and a lei make this snowman feel warm all over. We're not sure why they're faceless. Must be a new snowman trend the girls are setting!

Just one of the many white pines that line our driveway. It was a gorgeous walk to the mailbox! I took my camera with me and snapped a bunch. I had to dodge the snow sliding off the heavy branches. As it slid off and plopped all around me, I thought what a great sense of humor God really has. I did get tunked a few times!

Not only was I worried about Steve traveling, but I knew if the snow plow went by too many times, my driveway entrance would be blocked, and my snow plow guy had left. I knew the power could go out, and even with a trusty generator, that puts me over the edge! It all worked out and my worries were for nothing. Steve got home, plowed the driveway, ate the chili and tucked the girls into bed. I have a new appreciation for single moms, widows, and families with dad in the services. I am so blessed to have my hubby!

Thank God for answered prayers!!

Snow Buddies

Serena saw the snow on Saturday morning and could not help herself. She threw on her winter gear and headed out to build a snowman. Don't laugh! That girl can build a snowman out of 3 flakes!! She patiently collected enough snow to build a baby snowman. I think it took her quite awhile, as she came in pretty rosy-cheeked, begging for hot cocoa! I had a plate of cookies waiting for her, and a hot steaming mug of cocoa with extra marshmallows!

She poses with her little snow baby.
Almost ready!

So cute, with his (or her?) carrot nose, tiny stick arms and geranium hat! She placed him on the table on the deck...today I found him lying motionless on his back. That just means it's time for it to snow so Serena can create again!

Since Allison started posting again, I wanted to respond to her plea by posting a few pictures now and then. Sounds like a good compromise to me!

Takin' A Break!

Goodbye for now, readers, whoever you are.....I am taking a major break from my blog. It is that time of year where I need to be uber-focused on a million things, and some things just have to take a backseat!

As much as I love the Christmas season, I do not enjoy running from one event to the next, feeling tired and rushed. As much as I love to give gifts, I do not enjoy shopping. As much as I enjoy my kids' activities, there are too many right now. I am easily overwhelmed by it all. I love to bake, but I don't like to feel pushed to do so. I love wrapping gifts, but sometimes all I feel is the sting of overspending. We get more huge bills in December than any other month. We have more obligations in December than any other month. It's no wonder that it is difficult to remember the meaning of Christmas. It is no wonder I have to work at enjoying Christmas. I don't think I'm alone in this feeling. I admit it, the "busyness" of Christmas does get me down. I just want to stop. Think. Relax. Enjoy. Remember. Love. Rest. Give.

So, to help me remember the meaning of Christmas, I am going to do all of the above. I will start with Give. Whether I have a little money, or some extra, I will find a way to give. I will love where I didn't think to love before, and I will enjoy my friends and family. I will find peace in the "busyness", because all of those activities glorify the Lord. The Holy Walk we are attending tonight. Our traditional family trip to Frankenmuth tomorrow. Natalie's first band concert. Serena's first choir concert. The Night in Bethlehem event at our church, my dad's birthday, the annual Christmas party with our group of friends, the Christmas parade in town, and on and on. We do these things in honor of God and the gift of His Son, not because we need more to do.

All else is just "fluff" when you think of it that way. So while I will miss your hundreds of comments (tee hee...I know, I don't comment much either), I am taking a break for now, and will probably be back in January, after spending some time with my girls.

Have a wonderful Christmas and a happy, safe New Year. I will be thinking of you! One of the gifts I really want is for Allison to start blogging again. Hope Santa delivers!! :)

A Reminder From Ken

Ken Davis is one of those people who can have me on the floor, holding my sides, laughing hysterically as I lose my bladder control. (okay, maybe not the last part....yet) So, when I'm in need of some laughter, I pop in one of his DVD's or I grab one of his books.

I admit, I've been a little touchy about some things lately, and there is not really anyone to blame. There are times I just get a little annoyed with the world or myself, whichever comes first that day. This morning, I was trying to sleep and many annoying thoughts were bothering me.

So, I jumped out of bed, let Sophie out, put the coffee on, and began making pancakes for my family. Take that, rotten thoughts! I am doing something good here!

My mind wandered over to Ken Davis, who we've been blessed to see in person. His life is far from perfect, in fact, he deems himself as "not right". He's kind of the Christian version of a Robin Williams type, lots of humor, but you know there's some pain in there somewhere. He has chosen to take his pain, and his faults and turn them into valuable life lessons. The humor is a bonus, but it's only when you can laugh at yourself that you "lighten up"!!

I think I do that for the most part, but I noticed that when I am annoyed or irritated at someone, I have a major creative block! I don't feel much like laughing or joking. Hmm....see the connection there? I certainly do. It's not until I let go of that that I get the breakthrough and the lesson, and the peace that comes from learning. Peace. Yah, that's just what I've been looking for.

check out more Ken at www.kendavis.com

Ah, It's Here Again....

'Tis the season......to be what? Are you going to be a major grumpola because you have to wait in line for 10 minutes? Are you annoyed that your Christmas lights are tangled or broken? Are you already complaining about the cold weather? Commercialism? People who don't say "Merry Christmas at the stores? Please! Spare me! No more complaining! I don't care how righteous it sounds. What I am doing right this second is also complaining. I'm complaining about complainers!

I don't hate democrats. I don't hate republicans. I don't hate anyone for that matter, yet how many emails do I get in a day that hates one of those, I can't even tell you. I don't care about Jon and Kate, Adam what's his name, tiger woods, or even who shot J.R. I simply want to live my life in peace, enjoy my blessings, stick my graying haired head in the skirt of my Christmas tree, and thank my God that I'm alive.

I don't really want to know what is ticking you off right now. I just want to hear all the good stuff that you are keeping from me. I don't want to hear the latest slam on a celebrity that I will never meet, nor do I ever care to. I would love to hear something that I want to repeat! Something good. Something helpful. Something positive. Something real. A something that can only come from your heart. Love, maybe?

Why am I so annoyed already? I can just feel it coming, and this time I am prepared. Not only do I not want to sweat My small stuff, I don't want to sweat anyone else's either. I am taking a stand against whiners, complainers, and grumpy gomers!

Really, some days I can tolerate this, and some days it just gets me. I guess as I gaze at my Christmas lights and come off an absolutely blessed weekend with my family, I really don't have room for negativity. This is a crazy mixed up world, it's true, but we aren't to be a part of that, are we? Isn't there something better than this world and all it's trappings? I think so.

So, I remind you again, as I did last year. Do not be offended when someone says Happy Holidays. That is what it means. It has nothing to do with our God. It is simply an all emcompassing greeting to cover 2 holidays in one. Please don't assume that every one and every school and every business is against God. They simply are not. If we continue to think that way, we are doomed to find something wrong with everything and everyone. If it really gets under your skin, then YOU be the person that stands in the cold, ringing a bell, and YOU say Merry Christmas as loud as you want to. You be the example!

Please try to have a meaningful Christmas this year. Find your blessings, be a blessing, and if you catch me being a grump (and I can be,let me tell you), please print this out and hand it to me with a great big smile on your precious face.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you and yours!

Fruit Salad Life

It's been a little bananas for us lately, as all Novembers seem to be crazy busy! Rewinding for a moment, last week we went down to visit Steve's Grandma, who is temporarily living down the road with Steve's parents. She's 90, and pretty sharp, just needs hot meals and lots of company. She loves dominoes, so we went down to play a few games with her. She won, of course! We've been told her eyesight isn't very good, but the way she played dominoes, I would beg to differ! The girls really enjoy playing with Grandma Bailey, but she frequently beats them in every game! She's a good apple, that Grandma!

During the week, we had decided that we would put up our outdoor Christmas decorations, since we missed it last year due to the very early snow. I turned on the Christmas tunes and sang in the front yard as I untangled string after string of lights, and stopped only to play a little basketball with Natalie. Natalie and I did a pretty good impersonation of Elvis, while singing "Blue Christmas". We do a pretty mean air guitar as well. Of course, Steve occasionally jumps into our basketball games, and that's where I take a time out. He's brutal, but Natalie can keep up with him! Way to go, girl! Serena just cracks us up with her basketball antics. We spend so much time laughing....I am so very blessed to have them in my life. I should have posted the pictures of the three of them playing. They are a bunch of fruit loops!

We also enjoyed a couple dinners out over the weekend....Steve handed us out some ballots and we all had to vote on where we wanted to eat. The girls and I won, and off to Fazoli's we went! It's just a great place to go with family.

Fast forward to today....Serena's 4th grade class had their Thanksgiving program and feast today. The parents all brought food...so much food! The kids sang and just did a great job! I made a giant roaster full of mashed potatoes, and worried that I'd bring most of them home (it happened before!), but I brought home a very empty roaster! Yay!

I spent the rest of what was left of my day baking for the bake sale. I also have shopping and cooking to do for Thanksgiving, then a birthday cake and party to plan for Steve on Saturday. I think every week and weekend is booked from now until January. All good stuff, mind you, but a bit busy for my taste.

So, while life is a bit busy, the things we do are producing quite a nice fruit salad to share with anyone who comes our way!

Eye Can

I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something. I will not refuse to do something I can do.

Helen Keller

Lately I've really been focused on what I can do, since I am constantly reminding my girls that the word "Can't" is not allowed in our home. I cringe when Serena says, "I can't dribble so I don't like basketball." So, one morning when I had her all to myself, I began a dialogue with her about what we "can" and "can't" do and why. (by the way, she can dribble a basketball!)

Come to find out, she doesn't "like" basketball because she has a fear of messing up and being embarassed. Well, I could have told her that, but I wanted her to discover it on her own! Like a lawyer, I asked lots of leading questions until she had to say out loud, "I guess I'm just scared."

I don't know if it will make her want to play basketball, and frankly, I don't care if she does or doesn't play, but it has to be for the right reasons! We bring so much of our own childhoods into our parenting, and for me, it has been a positive thing. I was afraid of my own shadow as a kid. I was pent up, inhibited, scared to death of being embarassed, noticed, teased, etc.... It wasn't until Jr. high that I began to leave that behind. But oh, all the things I missed in the process! What a regret I had for not trying something just because I was scared. I told Serena how paralyzing fear is and that it shouldn't stop us from doing what we really want to do. I remember wanting to try something so bad that my heart would race, and I let myself down by not doing it out of fear.

I can already see that she's nothing like I was as a kid, and I'm so very proud of both of my girls. I can see that fear will have a harder time of tripping them up than it did me. God really used my fearful childhood to make me a better mom for my kids. I can teach them many things because I already walked through that and I'm sensitive to the signs.

At our house, we have a can in the pantry (until it gets used) that has eyes drawn all over it. When someone says, "I can't", they get the "eye can". I've even been handed the can a few times! Oops! Can they do everything? Of course not, and I don't expect them to, but what they "can" do is t-r-y before they give up!

I have started something recently that I've always told myself I 'couldn't' do, and it's like laughing fear right in its face. I'm doing it out of love, and so my fear is being replaced with the "eye can". I always thought I shouldn't turn people down when they ask me to do things that I know I can do, but sometimes I know it's just not the right thing for me. I find out later that I was needed for something else, something more difficult, and I knew my time had to be spent doing that instead.

One of my power verses has always been Philippians 4:13...I can do ALL things through Christ who strenthens me. He is working in my life and I can see Him working in my family. I am keenly listening for Him and following His lead for my life. That is something I CAN do for sure! No excuses!

Be blessed and get busy making yourself an "eye can" or better yet, have the kids help....it's fun!

A Breck Girl Moment

Wow. What a difference a few curls in your hair can make! I haven't had my mane cut in awhile (part of my money-saving strategy), so today I went in for a good trim. Nikki decided again to give me a curly "do". Then she said, "there you go, hot tamale! Call your husband and have him take you to lunch!" Well, we missed the lunch, but we did make it for dinner instead. I had a meeting up at school for "Count Me In" which interfered with Wed. Night class, so I met Steve uptown at one of our favorite spots, Pizza Man's. He took one look at me and it was va va va voom. Well, not really. He actually wasn't feeling well and has been fighting a cold all week. Through his glassy tired eyes, though, I think I caught a twinkle! :)

Anyway, I went up to pick the girls up from church and ran into a friend of ours who said, "hey, I really like your hair....it makes you look really young!" Oh, Fred. You are on my Christmas list for sure! Then as I was leaving, dear Allison caught me and said, "I love your hair! It makes you look about 10 years younger!" Whoa....was that a conspiracy or what? Okay, all flattery aside, now I'm thinking, just how old did I look before?? Hmmm....

Anyway, we're headed back to the salon tomorrow for the girls' haircuts and I will ask my stylist personally if she is curling my hair because I am looking old these days! :) She's so stinking sweet she'll just smile and say "no way..you're a hottie!" I must tip well, eh??

Okay, enough hair talk.....here's a cool idea for that Christmas party you're planning.....

At Steve's work, they are doing this really cool gift exchange game. Maybe you've heard of it. I hadn't and thought it sounded really fun. You draw names with your co-workers, Sunday school class, family, group of friends, Bible study group, etc.... You pick a toy for the person whose name you drew, but not just any toy. It has to be a toy that you think that person would have liked as a child. Then you open the gifts at the party, tell the person why you thought of that toy, then all the toys are donated to charity!! Isn't that cool?? I so want to do that! It really puts the meaning back into giving for me.

Thanksgiving is coming and I am thankful. For what? Oh, everything! Good, bad, and in between. It's all good. I hope you are just as thankful for your life and all that it holds. A grateful heart is a happy heart!!

Be blessed, and hey, go curly!

All in a Day's "Work"

Wow. What a busy Monday. It started off by getting the girls off to school, then heading over to my mom's to meet my sister for our first Bible study together. I am both honored and terrified to be teaching her about the Lord. I am being stretched, for sure! It went well, and I hope next week goes even better. After our study, I ran home to throw in some more clothes from Mount Stinky, then began to plan dinner. Natalie had an honor society meeting, so I had to run to get Serena, bring her back home, work some more on Rachel's scrapbook for Jonathan, and make some calls. I also volunteered to help the three girls below with their science project, so I brought them home with me as well, planning to run them all back that evening. Whew. That was after getting all their supplies, listening to Brit Nicole at top volume, and making them Mama's Pizza Pasta with Rustic garlic bread for dinner. Do I sound tired? Actually, it was fun!

Here are the girls working on their ecosystem diorama. They had to make a rainforest. They began by painting a landscape on the back of the box. I was thoroughly impressed! Each girl was able to incorporate her unique idea to the project making it truly a collaborative effort. I really tried to stay out of the way, only suggesting one or two things. I couldn't help myself, guys.

There is the finished project! I just know they will get a high score for their efforts! It was a joy to see them be so proud of the work they had done. Now the big question...who gets to keep it? I suggested a three way custody split, then giving it to whoever has the cleanest room. Won't be Natalie, I'm sure!! I love that girl, but oh, my goodness!! :)

Just Call Me Grace

I've been a bit busy since my last post! On Thursday I had a ton of housework to do, then some running I had to do at night for several upcoming things....birthdays, science project, etc...

We couldn't find my mom's birthday gift where she said she saw it, so we ended up going home without it, planning another trip in the morning. I had big plans to take Mom over to Loafer's Glory for lunch, so I had a lot to pack in that day. We also planned on going over that evening to share her b-day with her.

Well....so much for plans! Shortly after 10pm Thursday night, I started feeling sickish, starting with yes, a migraine. Ugh. So, with no sleep that night, it was safe to say I was in for it. I had a bad headache for much of the day Friday, and although I was fatigued, I couldn't sleep. Here's the kicker.....don't laugh now.....

I heard the girls' fans running upstairs, and I was annoyed that they left them on. I dragged myself upstairs to shut them off, saw their overflowing laundry baskets in their rooms, and thought, hey, I will probably feel like doing that later, I'll take them down now. Did I mention how woozy I'd been feeling before this?? I took one step down with the laundry basket and next thing I knew, I was skidding down the stairs with my left leg bent completely under me. I banged up both arms pretty good too! At first, my foot was burning and I thought for sure I broke it. I stopped panicking and tried to stand on it. Good news. Nothing broken but my dignity! I picked up the basket and the clothes that flew down the steps, limped on down the rest of the staircase, and muttered the only word to describe myself at that moment. Idiot! The bad thing was, I still had my migraine, and now I had a sore body to match, and a mountain of laundry too!

I was a bit sore on Saturday and my arm didn't want to bend right, but as the day went on, I began to feel normal again. Good thing. The headache was gone, but I was feeling really tired. We had a pretty busy Saturday with the girls' activities and another visit from Patty and Regan! We ran some more for the science project and the shoebox toys Saturday night.....it's no wonder I am tired today!

So, we just got back from celebrating mom's late birthday. She wanted to watch a movie with us, so we watched "UP". She made us dinner and we shared a yummy cake. Did you catch that? She made her own birthday dinner! Oh, mom....

Mom also came over while I was sick. She walked into my room where Sophie and I were resting, patted my hair, and told me there was chicken soup and vernors on the bar. She kissed my forehead and told me to sleep. For a second, I felt 10 years old again. Isn't it just like a mom? We really are at our best when our kids need us most. I squinted up at her, said, sorry about your birthday mom. Love you. Thank you. Then I shut my eyes and felt like crying. Only I won't cry with a headache. It makes it worse!!

So, happy birthday mom, and thanks for all your love.

Be blessed, my friends, and let nothing stand in your way!

God Bless the Veterans

I am safe, warm, and comfortable. I have everything I need. I know where my family is and I can pretty much do whatever I want. Never a day goes by that I take that for granted. The men and women of this country make it possible for us to live our lives freely by giving their lives freely.

So, to all the veterans, including those in my family, to all the soldiers and their families....

God Bless You! Thank You! We love you!! Most of all, we won't forget what you've done and what you do!

Scrapapalooza

Well, last Saturday was our Crop day at church, and a whopping 4 of us showed up. Of course, Jenn and I put it together, so actually 2 showed up. Kinda disappointing, not because people weren't there, but because it has been nearly impossible to find anyone who enjoys scrapbooking. It really is an art that is fun to do with someone else who enjoys it. I don't know how much Jenn got done, but I didn't scrapbook at all! I sat there and caught up on my correspondence, messed around with my laptop, and put tab dividers in my sister's new Bible. Then I actually did a layout for Rachel, who is putting a book together for her son for his upcoming graduation. She despises scrapbooking of any kind, but wants him to have a book of his own. So, the three of us took her photos and are working on her layouts at home.

I have to say, I have not had a passion for scrapbooking for about the last 4 or 5 years, although I used to be quite addicted. I'm hoping through working on Rachel's pages that the passion will reignite in me so I can finish the many scrapbooks I started for my girls.

They will be treasures one day! It's not just the book they enjoy, but seeing their mom sitting for hours working on pictures of them, adding journaling and titles, it really makes them feel special! They would walk by while I was working on my pages and just get big smiles on their faces! I always enjoyed showing Steve my finished work. Actually, I did make him a nice scrapbook for Christmas last year. I forgot about that. It is one of his favorite gifts from me, and is at his office so he can see it whenever he just needs to feel better.

So, I guess my hobby needs to become a gift again. To me and to those I treasure most. It is what connects me to my friend Patty, whose continual encouragement makes me want to grab the glue tabs again! It is what connected me to Jenn, as I watched her working on her beautiful, and I mean, beautiful works of art!

Jenn is passionate about sharing her gift with others, and I hope it catches on so she has that opportunity to teach us something really special!!

Now if I could just hook her up with Patty....oh, wouldn't that be a fun day??

IPS +SOS= GOD

Life is getting busier and busier as the holidays approach, so I may be a bit absent now and then. Of course, many of my fellow bloggers have been AWOL for some time too. It's just cyclical, I guess. (or a better commitment to Facebook...you know who you are!)

November is getting full of activities and obligations, and believe me, I will try to stay positive, but my IPS is screaming. IPS. That's "Internal Positioning System". A whole new abbreviation for the 20 somethings to steal. That means internally, I am spinning around while the outside of me appears somewhat normal. "Calgon, take me away" won't even cut it !

So, after I just deleted the 3 paragraphs that originally followed the above, I will leave you with this.

"Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me. For I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matthew 11:28

Jesus said that! God didn't give His Son for me so that I let the troubles of life, people, and situations get the best of me. He will provide all I need to handle it all. What I can't do, He will take from me and carry it on His shoulders. He will then comfort me and make it possible for me to do the work He laid out for me to do, unhindered by this world.

You're wondering what those 3 paragraphs said? It was nothing that would have lifted you up, encouraged you, or helped you in any way. Really, we all know life is challenging, and it's often the little things that really irk us, but the bigger picture is that God knows what we go through and what we need and we need to trust that He will provide the rest, strength, and patience that we need! Venting is something to be careful of.....instead of throwing a fit, use that energy to tell God what's on your mind and why. He will settle you down! He says to me, "Hey, little missy, settle down!!" He speaks my language, and I know He speaks yours too! Just quiet your heart, open your ears, and let it in.

We all have reasons to be upset or disappointed, and we do need to share those with people and share the burdens that we bear. God allows us to help others by sharing what we go through, and it is important to do that. However, sometimes I just feel better by taking a few minutes to think about how God has blessed me. I then take some time and pray about someone who needs God in his or her life, and it takes the focus off me altogether. What I was "snitting" about suddenly pales in comparison and I feel like a spoiled brat! God's spankings are sometimes the best!! :)

I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me. (Phil. 4:13)

You can too!!

Yes, Connie...I Share Recipes!!

I'm sorry, but I think people who have a great recipe and won't share it are just mean. That's right. Mean! It's like the kid who has a giant chocolate bar and says, "Neener neener, I have something yummy and you'll never have it unless I decide to give it to you! " I mean, come on, food is to be enjoyed and shared, right? Who cares if someone wants to make your Grandma's famous cookies? I think you should be honored that someone loves it so much that they want to pass on the tradition of making it for the ones they love. No, recipes should not be coveted. They should not rot in the bottom of your recipe drawer long after you're gone. In fact, I'm pretty sure that if there are people out there not sharing recipes, that soon the "Recipe Paparazzi" will be following you around! You better guard it with your life. They will get you and we'll be eating whatever it is you are too stingy to share. I'm being funny, please withhold your hate mail.

Okay, with my speech being said, here is a recipe that I borrowed from the famous Taste of Home magazine. It was sent in by an obviously gracious lady, Nancy Roper from Etobicoke, Ontario, wherever that is. There. With credit being given, knock yourself out, Connie, here it comes! Thank you, Nancy, for not being stingy!!

Creamy Cranberry Coffee Cake (from Feb./Mar. 2003)

2 cups all purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1-1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 egg
3/4 cup orange juice ( use the good kind)
1/4 cup butter, melted (not margarine)
1 tsp. vanilla (mexican, if you have it)
2 cups coarsely chopped fresh or frozen cranberries
1 T grated orange peel

Cream Cheese Layer :

1 8oz. pkg. Philadelphia cream cheese, softened (the full fat kind, of course)
1/3 cup sugar
1 egg
1 tsp. vanilla

Topping:
3/4 cup all purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup cold butter (not margarine)

In a large bowl, combine the first four ingredients. Combine the egg, orange juice, butter, and vanilla; stir into dry ingredients until well combined. Fold in the cranberries and orange peel. Pour into a greased 9" springform pan.

In a small mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add egg and vanilla; mix well. Spread over batter. (lick spoon) Combine the flour and sugar; cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle over top.

Place pan on a baking sheet. Bake at 350 for 70-75 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes before removing sides of pan. (Loosen belt and get a fork)

Yield: 12 servings

Enjoy, enjoy. It is a keeper. Everywhere I take it, people swoon and their eyes go back in their heads. It is a time-consuming recipe for sure, so give yourself lots of time to prepare. Oh, and if you're still being stingy with that recipe. Just give it up. I'm tired of your "neeners", and I will probably get tired of your "special dish" before too long as well!!

Family Fun

It's been a family tradition for the past few years for us to have a little party on the Friday before Halloween. We carve our pumpkins, bob for apples, eat and play games all night. This year, we changed it up a bit and invited grandma and grandpa to come. I had organized a scavenger hunt (yes, in the wind and rain), and it turned out to be a lot of fun for the girls.
This is the pizza snake that I made. Yes, me, big ole scaredy cat me. I despise snakes. Even pizza ones!

Here's just a bit of the yummy spread. We had "arachnamole" (guacamole), eye of newt (wraps), "mummy dogs", cider with a floating hand, a brownie spider web cake, caramel popcorn with gummy worms, pumpkin seeds, and so much more! It was such a fun party. I know mom and dad loved being with us. We played dominoes and laughed a bunch. It took me two days to put this little shindig together, but it was well worth the effort.

We made time to get over to Maxwell's Pumpkin Farm again. Another tradition we've had for a long time. The girls still enjoy picking out their pumpkins. You're never too old for a pumpkin farm!

There's Miss Gypsy. Serena enjoyed this costume for the sheer fact that she could wear giant hoop earrings and look "pretty". She was quick to correct those who called her a fortune teller. She doesn't think too highly of them, obviously!

Oh, what a great day at the Lazy Day Spa. Natalie didn't really care to get candy, but she enjoys dressing up and hanging out at Grandma's. They live in town and get hit pretty hard, so she likes to watch all the cute kids come up the steps for candy.

Between the church trunk n treat party, the party at school, the party at home, the actual visiting on Halloween, and the football dinner on Sunday, we are pretty partied out!

Actually, we never get tired of parties, and we never get tired of having fun as a family. I enjoy every minute I get to spend with my family no matter what we're doing! Oh, my costume, you ask?? I went as "Steve's girlfriend". I wore Steve's old varsity jacket from high school and chased after him all night. :)

A Dandy Candy Holiday

I am pro-chocolate, pro-candy, pro-(cute and funny)costume, and pro-kids! While I understand some of the reasons people are anti-halloween, I don't understand them all. I for one, refuse to give evil any special recognition! You'd think, oh, well, then don't celebrate Halloween. No, it 's actually in reverse, at least for me. I choose to make Halloween all about fun, pumpkins, candy, and all things good! If all the Christians shut their porch lights off, then I guess all the kids have no choice but to knock on doors in the dark. I would rather greet them with a happy smile and give them candy. After all, it is all about the candy. At least it is for my family. And since we enjoy dressing up and acting silly, this is the one day you have license to do that without appearing crazy. (not that it should stop anyone)

Evil exists out there every day of the week, not just on Halloween. Just look around you. Churches that put on carnivals and fun activities for Halloween have the right idea. Don't take it away, but change the meaning. We aren't celebrating darkness unless we have darkness in our hearts. You don't need a holiday for that. It's just that knocking on doors for candy in July is well, just plain weird!!

So, whatever your opinion of Halloween, remember to at least eat some chocolate. And if you really want to make someone happy on a typically scary day, take your kids to the local senior centers and nursing homes. They absolutely love to see all the kids come in. It does wonders for their spirits!!


Be blessed, and don't be afraid to let your (jack o lantern) light shine!

Stream of Consciousness

A creative mind wanders all day long. A creative person is often a daydreamer, has an imaginary friend as a child, sees images in the clouds and in their hot cocoa that no one else sees. A creative person begins as a creative child, who makes up songs and jokes, dresses up or pretends to be an animal. Have you ever felt uplifted by just coloring with crayons next to a child? Do you ever just enjoy watching them play or getting involved in their play-acting? I spent so much time with my girls just playing house or store, having "classy" tea parties, or doing jungle rides in the wagon in the backyard. Creative people are often avid readers, ask lots of questions, seem more fascinated with basic things that most people take for granted. They often seem "artsty fartsy" or "weird" to others who "have it all together", but to me, they are the coolest breed of people around. They are living in technicolor, while the rest remain in black and white!

Life in this world can be a lot of things, but it should never be boring. I am always skeptical when someone tells me they are bored. How can a person be bored? I don't get it. I'm guessing the mind of that person may be asleep for whatever reason. There is so much to be enjoyed and experienced, and you don't have to go anywhere to get it. I believe God created us to have wonderful positive thoughts, so what happens? When you start relying on the world to entertain you, you're going to have problems and yes, you will be bored.

I spent a lot of time alone as a kid, so I had countless opportunities to create in my mind. I was the kid with the imaginary friend. I wrote poems and stories, drew pictures out of scribbles and read countless books. I made everything up as I went along. It became a place of escape, where I could create every situation and every outcome, completely suited to me. It was survival then, and it is survival now. I don't mind being alone, I am never bored, and life rarely gets me down. I guess my mind never "parks" for very long, and that has been a saving grace for me.

I can see why many creative people in history went a little bonkers. Their minds must have been going about 200 miles per hour. Sometimes my mind races like that, but it's usually things I want to do or accomplish, or ideas that I am excited about. If my mind is going to race, I'd like it to be about things that are positive, things of God, and things that matter.

I could go on and on about the mind. It really is a terrible thing to waste. It's something we have to be careful with, as it is the enemy's target. Joyce Meyer wrote a great book about the mind, called "Battlefield of the Mind". It's a good read.

In one of my college writing classes, we did an exercise called "stream of consciousness". It was a way of writing down every thought that came to mind, usually to help you with a concept or even come up with a title for your piece. I have never forgotten it, and I use it sometimes to come up with creative ideas. I think it could be used to start your day off in a positive light as well. Get your thoughts going on a concept, like "goodness" for example. Let your mind go to all things good, starting with God, and what He is doing for you. Keep it going all day long! I promise you won't be bored and I promise you will feel more creative.

My stream today will be about thinking of one good thing about everyone I know. It should be an all day thing, but it will keep me focused on the positive and not all the negatives I have avoided talking about so far!!

Be blessed, from the tip of your toes to the top of your mind!! :)

Something To Remember

In my studying of pride and humility this week, I've been reading a lot of the Old Testament, mostly 1 Samuel and 2 Samuel. Whew...this is tough on a New Testament girl!! Anyway, I wanted to share something you've all read before, but it is worth remembering. Here goes...

People are often unreasonable and self-centered.

Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind, people may accuse you of ulterior motives.

Be Kind anyway.

If you are honest, people may cheat you.

Be honest anyway.

If you find happiness, people may be jealous.
Be happy anyway.

The good you do today may be forgotten tomorrow.

Do good anyway.

Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough.

Give your best anyway.

For you see, in the end, it is between you and God.

It was never between you and them anyway.

Mother Teresa

And the most important thing to remember? The "people" she speaks of? That means us too!

Be blessed and "never tire of doing what is right." (2 Thess. 3:13)

Pumpkin Fever

The leaves are falling, the ladybugs are crawling, but all is well because no one is bawling. Do you see what happens when I don't get a good night's sleep? Silliness all day, that's what. I had strange dreams of friends singing on PBS specials, their mouths looking larger than their heads...these dreams just get weirder and weirder. I thought I heard a terribly loud noise sometime around 2 am, so I was pretty much awake from then on, just dozing from strange dream to stranger dream. Since I'm not on medication, I have to wonder if it's a pumpkin overdose.

Because of my love of all things Fall, I am obsessed with pumpkins. That's right....I can't get enough pumpkins. I have the real thing lining the front sidewalk, pumpkin candies in the candy dish, pumpkin flavored pudding in the refrigerator, pumpkin decorations all over the house, and then my new obsession... I call it Pumpkin Cappi-Latte, my coffee combination of powdered french vanilla cappuccino mix with Pumpkin Spice Latte mix. Add hot skim milk, and there you have it. Another way to enjoy pumpkin. I also put pumpkin pie spice in with my coffee grounds in the morning. Add to that a piece of pumpkin bread or a pumpkin muffin, and wowie!

I have a mean pumpkin cheesecake that blows the socks off my family, I have pumpkin recipes galore and I love them all. I can't wait to carve some pumpkins just so I can roast the seeds. Have I gone far enough yet? I think you get the idea, my little pumpkin.

And speaking of my "real pumpkins", they are still asleep! No school for the rest of the week due to all the creepy cruds going around. I haven't gotten it yet. Maybe it's because of my pumpkin intake!! :)

Enjoy your day, enjoy the fall, and please, enjoy the pumpkins!

Focusing on the Gift that Matters

We're beginning to plan for Christmas, which includes getting an idea of what we can afford this year. Notice I said "includes". I hope it goes without saying that Christmas is far more than presents under the tree! But, we do have 2 girls who are getting older and with that comes more pricey tags. We're careful with our spending, as my choice to be home to raise the girls means one income. There's nothing wrong with cutting down whether you have one income or two, or whether or not we're in tough economic times. What matters is the condition of your heart when it's gift giving time.

I've been thinking a lot about Christmas and some things I haven't enjoyed about it because those are things I don't want to repeat. I've thought about the word "gift" and what that means. To me, it means giving of your own accord and giving when you really truly have it in your heart to give. Another way of looking at it is if you have to pull out a credit card to please someone else, that's not a true gift at all. When it endangers your economic status and goes against your beliefs, or you're doing it to fit in or to please someone else, that's just not a gift.

With that said, let me flashback a bit. In Steve's family, we have been known as the "black sheep" when it comes to Christmas. I was the only one who chose to be a stay at home mom, and our spending was very limited. While they drew names and had what I considered too high limits for spending, we had to pass. We felt pretty horrible when they gave our children gifts. We just couldn't buy 11 kids Christmas presents! How fun was that, you ask? Oh, not at all, and it certainly didn't gain us (mostly me) any brownie points at the time. My suggestion to do a "chinese" auction was met with a not so welcome reception. I tried. I truly didn't want to shake things up, but no matter what I did, I looked bad. I say "I" because you know the in-law usually gets blamed for everything. It's okay, I can take it.

When I was worried about how I was going to pay for gifts for my OWN children, I couldn't possibly be worried about spending another $60 on a sibling who seemed to have way more than I had in the first place. See, it just brought out some ugliness all the way around. It got ugly when we refused to go along with it, but I knew in my heart that we had done the right thing.

Isn't it sad that when we sit around and talk about Christmas parties or gatherings, that there's always a story like this one? Wouldn't it be nice if everyone understood and respected someone else's financial situation? Wouldn't it be nice if we focused on family and God and the birth of our Savior and let that be the gift on the table, under the tree, and in our arms??

In my family, we don't exchange gifts with my siblings. We bring a favorite dish to pass, we have a wonderful meal, we talk and catch up, laugh, play games, and take pictures. There is no pressure to walk through that door. You don't need to worry if your arms aren't loaded with gifts. You only need to worry if you're on a diet!! Some years, when all can handle it, we will do an auction, but if times are tough, we leave it out. NO big deal!! Just come so you can be hugged!

Now in Steve's family, they do a chinese auction. I'd like to say I told you so, and I guess I just did, but at least we can walk in there and not feel the pressure of walking in without gifts. Sometimes it just has to be someone else's idea. Whatever works.

Make sure when you are giving a gift that you really want to give it. Don't do it out of obligation, guilt, or even spite. You're not doing yourself or anyone else a favor by being a big ole phony. Christmas means One thing to me. That is the focus I choose to have. It makes the difference between having a stressful holiday, or a holiday full of joy. I choose the latter.

Be blessed as you enter the holiday season and keep your eyes on the GIFT!

Pride is the Master of Disguise

Here's a little something I want to share about this "little" thing called Pride. I hope it hits you where it hit me.


My name is Pride. I am a cheater.
I cheat you of your God-given destiny...because you demand your own way.
I cheat you of contentment...because you
"deserve better than this."
I cheat you of knowledge...because you already
know it all.
I cheat you of healing...because you're too full of
me to forgive.
I cheat you of holiness...because you refuse to
admit when you're wrong.
I cheat you of vision...because you'd rather look
in the mirror than out a window.
I cheat you of genuine friendship...because
nobody's going to know the real you.
I cheat you of love...because real romance
demands sacrifice.
I cheat you of greatness in heaven...because you
refuse to wash another's feet on earth.
I cheat you of God's glory...because I convince
you to seek your own.
My name is Pride. I am a cheater.
You like me because you think I'm always looking
out for you. Untrue.
I'm looking to make a fool of you.
God has so much for you, I admit, but don't worry...
If you stick with me
You'll never know.

(Taken from Praying God's Word, by Beth Moore)

The Bible tells us that God hates pride. That's a pretty strong word, coming from God. I think we'd better listen. Pride is the end of many homes, relationships, lives. It is the enemy of churches and marriages, friendships, and joy. If you're full of yourself, you can't be full of the Spirit of God. Sounds to me like Pride would be a pretty good tool for the enemy.
What is the opposite of pride? Humility. If we don't humble ourselves, guess what? God will humble us. He won't put up with that very long at all!

In this book, Beth also provides scripture-based prayers specifically for help in dealing with the issue of pride. One simple one goes like this: "Father, help me to understand that the pride in my heart is deceiving me." (see Jeremiah 49:16)

I think pride is so deceptive that we don't even realize that it's our main problem! It's taken me a long time to recognize certain thinking patterns and behaviors were just pride in disguise. It's a daily prayer of mine to ask God to help me keep only the pride that is acceptable to Him, and toss out the rest!!

Busy Crazy Germy...My Weekend

With sick kids all day Friday, I knew I had little time to prepare for my photo shoot with Cassie, our niece, on Saturday. I scurried around, cleaning, hanging sheets on the line, disinfecting everything, taking temperatures, and preparing to have company all day. What surprised me was how well it all turned out, despite all the things I was trying to do in a day. Cassie is pretty laid back and wasn't too crazy about being out in the cold shooting pictures, but we laughed a lot and made it very fun. She was pretty happy with the first few shots we did, but I kept encouraging her to let me do more! We ended up with about 85 pictures, which to me is nothing! We walked quite a bit of the property, looking for "the perfect birch tree", and ended up in the side yard for most of the shots! Cassie is beautiful, with big happy dimples, which she tried to disguise! What? I used to eat lemons as a kid, thinking it would make me have dimples! I know, I know...

This was one of our favorite shots, and she really likes black and white, although the colors were really pretty on Saturday. Some of our backgrounds were so pretty it looked like a Sears backdrop!

While Cassie, mom Rona, and brother James were here, Steve's mom and dad stopped by, and we all had a nice time visiting. The doorbell rang as they were preparing to leave, and there on the porch was Patty and Regan, surprising us with a visit! The phone rang twice, with calls from friends as well. When it rains, it pours around here. After having cabin fever for 2 weeks, I welcomed all the hubbub! That, and my house was clean!

On Sunday, the girls still had low fevers, so we spared the public of our germs and stayed home from church. Patty, Regan, and Taylor stopped by on their way back to Vicksburg for a short visit around noon. The migraine started about 12:30....an unwelcome visitor, for sure. Anyway, through it all, life is good and I am blessed. There isn't too much I can complain about at all.

The weather will be warm today, dinner is already planned, the dog is well and frisky, and I have nothing but praise to utter! As I tell my girls when they exit the van, "don't let anyone steal your joy. Don't let anyone get in your knickers. Don't let anyone poo in your ice cream. If someone tries to bring you down, pray God's favor on them, and feel sad that they don't know Him." I don't know about them, but it sure makes a difference in the way I handle people!

Enjoy your day. I know I will.

Creepy Crud

Well, the dog has healed for the most part, but now both girls are sick. We're not sure exactly what they have, but we're hopeful that it isn't the dreaded H1N1 virus. There has been one case in our school so far. Pretty scary stuff. However, God is watching over them, we are sure of that.

I have been quite the nurse these past 2 weeks, which sometimes makes me wonder if I haven't missed my calling. Although having sick kids can be stressful because you're always worried about the fever spiking in the middle of the night or worse, I do enjoy taking care of them. They love the constant attention, special trays, getting to use a straw, and the surprises I bring them. They are enjoying being pampered, although being sick really isn't all that fun. I keep their "charts" nearby so I can track every medication dose, every temperature, and any other info. I might need. Since I wasn't feeling too well myself these past couple of days, Steve worked from home again, and made the popsicle run this morning.

Of course, this couldn't have better timing, as I'm doing the photo shoot for Cassie tomorrow, plus Patty and family have arrived from Vicksburg for a visit. She is staying about 4 miles from here, which is a safe distance from our germs, I guess. I've put together a goodie basket for her and her family, which I will probably spray with Lysol and leave outside my door for her to find!

So, that's what's going on in my world today. I hope you are feeling well and your kids (if you have them) can escape the creepy crud going around. I'll be praying for all of you to stay well and healthy!

Ozzie and Patty: The Next "Marley and Me"...

First a Sophie update....then some amusing things to share about my friend Patty and her new puppy, Osgoode (Ozzy). Sophie is doing well. I gave her a much needed bath yesterday, and I probably won't go into great detail about that. Let's just say it was an interesting experience. She's still a bit wobbly, but able to walk on her own, go to the "bathroom", and her begging skills are top notch! She's looking and smelling better every day.

Patty is coming up here Friday and Saturday, so we've been chatting a lot this week. It seems Michigan has not been as friendly to her as she'd hoped. Her experience at the DMV was less than successful....she walked in to get her new license and plate, carrying nearly every piece of I.D. she had. After waiting for a very long time, she was told they also need her marriage license. So, back home, back to the DMV for another long long wait. That was Monday. On Wednesday, she attempted to use her bank for the first time. She asked to get a bank card in her own name, as the only one they had was her husband's. Nope, the teller says, can't give you one. Why? Your husband has to be here too. What?? Okay, then just cash this check for me. Sure. I'll just have to charge you $10 to do that. What?? The lady was less than friendly and less than helpful, leaving my dear friend in quite a frazzle. The whole reason she needed cash was because she and her new friend, the neighbor, were taking the kids to a pumpkin farm after school that day. So, her new friend offers to let Patty write her a check and she would just cash it and give her the money. Problem solved. Except that it didn't quite work that way. Patty brought the cash home, put it on the kitchen counter, then left to run some more errands for the day. She came home to her son saying, 'mom, I don't think Osgoode (the puppy) wants you to go to the pumpkin farm today'. Why is that? Patty asked. 'well, I found your money all chewed up all over the floor'. Oh....where is he? Looking at her from his comfy perch on the living room chair, where he is not supposed to be.

Sure, she wanted to wring his neck, but after all the hassle she had gone through that week, all she could do was laugh! Yes, laugh. What else can you do?? So, she and the friend went BACK to the friend's bank and traded the shredded money in for new. Patty has quite a sense of humor, and when used on strangers, it sometimes flies over their heads. She said to the helpful teller (where she will now move her account), "I was planning on taking Ozzy to the pumpkin farm, but I'm not taking him now" (she was just kidding) The lady says back, "well, I wouldn't take him either!"

This is just one of the Ozzy stories, and just a couple of the Michigan stories she has shared with me so far. Through it all, she manages to laugh. Of course, I can't wait to hear what happens next because I can always use a good laugh!

Enjoy your day and remember to laugh through the hard times. Next time you need a good laugh, ask me about the bath experience with Sophie. That's if you have a strong stomach. :)

Updates

Wow. I don't know what I pushed, but the text is blue and underlined. Hmmm....must be mice in the keyboard again....

There's sweet (oh, text is normal now...weird) Sophie in her makeshift bed. She's doing much better!! She is now able to get up and walk. Still a little unstable and a bit clumsy, but definitely showing improvement. I'm still watching to make sure she doesn't fall and break a leg. She has arthritis in her hips as well. Aging isn't too easy on pets, and even harder on the owners.

We were able to sneak in a fall photo shoot, though it was very cold. I know my camera removes red eye, but I wonder if it removes "red nose" too! I gotta tell ya...I like the Nikon D60, but I will never like it better than my Minolta Maxxum regular ole 35mm film camera!! Film is still better than digital any day, sorry digi fans!!

Those girls are growing up too fast! I've done these "shoots" since they were babies. I'd put them in their red wagon with straw and pumpkins. I still do lots of jumping in the leaves pictures because let's face it, you're never too old to play in the leaves,right? Just watch out if you have a dog. There may be a surprise or two in the pile!! Ew, I know. Those girls love to pose...I think I took about 160 shots of them!

Thanks to all of you who prayed us through our Sophie emergency. It means a lot to know that people understand how much we love our dog and get that she's a part of our family too!

Have a blessed week...prepare for cuddling. Snow is on the way!

A Woeful Wednesday...

I awoke early on Wednesday morning to my very restless dog. It was about 4:30 am and it seemed she wanted to go out. In her old age, she has been doing this nightly wake up thing for a while now. For some reason, I put on my slippers and wrapped in a blanket and followed her outside. I then noticed her stumbling and tripping, unable to walk a straight line. She made it back to the steps and just as I ran to her, she collapsed.

I quickly scooped up my 49 pound baby and ran into the house, straight into the bedroom to wake Steve. He was already awake, having seen the lights turn on. I was already crying, scared to death of what was happening to her. She was alive, but clearly not acting normal.

We put her down and watched as her head turned to the side repeatedly, and she seemed to stare at nothing, all the while not being able to stand. She didn't seem to be in pain or other distress, and as it was so early in the morning, I couldn't call the vet. So, I curled up on the floor next to her and tried to comfort her as much as I could. I prayed, of course, and I panicked, all at the same time, however impossible that may seem.

We couldn't see the vet until later in the afternoon, but upon talking with the vet, it seemed she was having some kind of dizzy spell. I guess it's common in older dogs. He said to give her a dramamine to help with the nausea and it would help her sleep. Well, we both needed sleep at this point. I made her a comfy bed next to the couch and tried to lay down with her. She kept picking her head up to look for me, so I finally laid down on the floor and put my head next to hers. Mind you, we have a hardwood floor in the living room. I didn't care! I was so exhausted and all I wanted to do was fix her, so I fell asleep right there with her, hard floor and all.

Because I have so much trouble lifting her, and I knew I couldn't deal with the unknown diagnosis without someone there, I asked Steve to take her to the vet. I couldn't go with him because of the kids' activities, and on short notice having no one to help us. My mom has been sick and I didn't want her to know what was going on. Well, Steve has had some pretty rough days at work with certain things going on and the last thing he needed was to leave work in the middle of it, but he did. For Sophie and for me. Probably not the easiest thing to do, but I have to say, Steve is a family man first, and I am so grateful for that.

Serena decided to help Daddy open the doors since he had to carry Sophie in his arms, so she went along to the vet. I asked him to please keep her in the waiting room during the exam, just in case. By the time I got back from Volleyball with Nattie, they had already returned. I didn't know if this was good news or bad, and I had already taken something to calm me down, preparing for the worst.

It turns out, Sophie has what is called "vastibular syndrome". In other words, her equilibrium is off, and she is extremely dizzy. It is common in dogs her age, it should go away within a few days to up to 2 weeks, and it is extremely rare for it to be permanent. Good good news!!!

I was so relieved at this news, as the whole day I spent crying over her, thanking God for 13 special years with her, and wondering if the day of decision had come. I was a wreck, as I told my friend, who graciously prayed for me that day.

She is still very unstable, and I have to assist her in everything, including bathroom duties, which is interesting and I won't go there! She's pretty heavy, but I carry her everywhere and let her ride with me to school so she doesn't think I left her. It has been difficult, but I am thankful I am home for her, because I would probably lose my job by now if I worked. I hate to say this, but I don't think I'd care!!

So, today is our 15th anniversary, and I made a turkey dinner. We won't be going out, and no cards will be exchanged. I've never really cared about cards and gifts on our anniversary. I am just thankful we're still happily married! I'm sure once my mom is well enough to take the girls and our dog has recovered, we will go out and have an evening together. Some things just have to be first. A good marriage can handle that and a whole lot more!!

Woeful Wednesday ended up being Thankful Wednesday, by the way.

Hello, Deer

The day I canned tomatoes, these little visitors came sneaking out of the woods into the yard. I snapped these through my bedroom window...I actually took about 15 shots. Dad asked me why I took so many, and I told him I would take 100 pictures to just get one good one! That is dedication!

And speaking of dedication, do you have a hobby? Something you enjoy doing alone or with others? I used to be pretty serious about scrapbooking, but building this house made me stop for about 4 years now. I know, it's sad.

However, something in me is awakening again, and an opportunity to scrap among friends has arrived!! Jenn Bovee and I are putting together a scrapbook day at the church on Saturday, November 7th from 9:30 am- 3:30 pm. We are very excited!!

What would be even more exciting is to see you there! Whether you scrap or not, I always look at these things as an opportunity to learn. If I didn't feel creative, I would just take my photos and spend the day organizing and labeling them, putting them into books. While I worked on that, I visited and enjoyed the creativity of others. Sometimes it's more about the fellowship than the layouts. At least that's the way I look at it.

So, you don't have to be creative or even a scrapbook nut to come. You can scrapbook so many things besides kids! You can do travels, wildlife sightings, hunting, friendship, family, favorite things, blessings...the possibilities are endless! Like quilting groups, scrapbookers tend to form a close bond with one another. It's a good thing!

Do I have you hooked yet?? I'm not even sure I'm hooked all the way yet, but I will be there with bells on, and I will enjoy the day. I've invited my uber-creative friend, Patty....pray she'll make it. Hey, all we need to make it even better is for HANNAH to come too!!!

Have a great week, my "deers".....

A Change is Coming

I am a card-carrying, self-professed lover of all things Fall!! The colors, the air, the coziness, the frost, pumpkins, apples, donuts, scarecrows, orchards, roadside stands, etc.. you get the idea.

The trees surround my house in a rainbow of fall colors, mixed in with the green of all the white pines...it's so gorgeous here in the woods. I'm a bit like a squirrel, as I get into a bit of a scamper mode, trying to get the harvest in, trying to get the lawn stuff put away, and planning for next spring. So much to do. And yet, in a few months, sooner than we think, the leaves will fall, the woods will sleep, and it will get very very silent here in the neighborhood. Ahhh....I almost can't wait. Weird, I know.

I am a type of person that kind of needs a forced slow down. I am always doing something and find it hard to take time out to just enjoy life. When my kids were home sick from school, I wondered why I enjoyed it so much. It wasn't that I wanted my kids to be sick, it's that I sat with them for the whole day. I watched movies with them, read them stories, folded warm laundry while they rested their feet on my lap. It was a quieting time for me and I couldn't imagine being anywhere else, no matter what I should have been doing chorewise.

So, I have been forcing myself to take some time out each day to do something deliberately relaxing. I began watching a movie today, but I didn't finish it. Hmm....tried to read a bit, but the sun was shining, so I moved on to something else. Hmm... I know this is weird, but the relaxing thing I did today was a 45 minute cardio workout. I felt super great and relaxed afterwards, then took a hot shower, using all my stinky bath stuff I got for my birthday. Super relaxing.

Yes, I do know how, I just sometimes don't know when. I hope to figure this out soon, because relaxing does feel pretty good.

How do you relax??

Life is One Big Chemical Reaction

Sigh...as I sit here in silence, I should be relaxed and quiet. The truth is, I don't really know how to relax unless I am exhausted and I fall into bed. I am being honest. I do not know how to lay on the couch with a blanket and watch a movie. Nope. It's just not in me. I have to be doing something every minute. I may blog a bit, or play a computer game for a few minutes, but I'm not even relaxed at that moment. I'm always thinking there is something else I should be doing. When I'm shopping and I've stayed a bit too long (like at Michael's), I start to get a weird feeling in my stomach, almost like an anxious feeling that tells me it's time to go home. Though I can have a laid back attitude, I'm probably not as laid back on the inside as I should be. That's my confession for today. Take it or leave it.

This has been a challenging week for someone who doesn't relax. The kids are both in after school activities, church has started up again, and Steve has been frazzled about work, to say the least. Do you ever remember hearing about the chain of reactions when dad has a bad day? Dad comes home, gets mad at mom, mom gets upset at the kids, and the kids kick the dog? Well, it wasn't that drastic here, but I could clearly see how letting the stress of life can really mess everybody up in an instant. We were running late, Serena ran around in the dirt in her socks, couldn't find her study paper for science....we just had little annoyances that felt like they were building and building.

I tried in vain to keep a good attitude, I read scriptures, I took deep breaths, but I could see just how hard that was going to be to maintain. Some days are just like that! We live in a screwed up world where people don't do what you ask them to do and it causes a big problem. I call it life's chemical reaction. Hold out your cup of baking soda, and people pour in just a little vinegar....too much, and it will overflow!! However, we can stop the reaction process with ourselves!!

I've said it before and I'll say it again..we can have peace when there is no tangible reason to have it. We can have it because of the peace God has already given us. We can trust that he will work things out for our good, no matter how big or small they are. We can lean on Him when our day is not going so swell, and know that He will use all of our stumbling blocks for a higher purpose. Dirty socks too? Yes. Serena will be handwashing her own socks after tennis tonight, in my effort to show her that it is more work for me when she doesn't respect her clothes. How can that be a "purpose"? It is one more opportunity to teach her something of value. It's annoying when the kids leave stuff all over the house and I have to step over it until they decide to pick it up. But the lesson I teach them is worth letting it sit there. Yes, it is painstaking work. Just like trying to make it in this world.

It is harder to do what is right, but so worth it. I am so glad Pastor Dave is doing a Wed. class on "Boundaries", because as parents, the stress of life sometimes causes us to let the boundaries blur a bit. We just can't do that! By the way, there are so very few of us in this class....PD has put together a great class. I know he doesn't mind doing it for 4 or for 40, but it is such a valuable class that it's a shame more parents aren't coming. So, tell everyone you know about it! It's not just a class about kids....it's about our own boundaries. Good stuff. Last night we even discussed politics, and I'm so glad because it wasn't about R's and D's, hatred and narrow minds, but about keeping ourselves informed and thinking for ourselves, which I wholeheartedly believe in. PD has some great wisdom in this area. I usually cringe at political discussions, but I actually walked away from this one feeling better. Good job, PD!

I pray that you're not letting stress steal your blessings as it tried to steal mine. Stay on your knees when this is happening on your life. Keep your eyes up and keep making lists of what you are grateful for. That is one way to keep the vinegar out of your cup!!

Weekend Happenings

On Friday night, we headed over to the Mt. Pleasant football game...Oilers vs. Dow Chemics... What a fun game to watch! Both teams have some great players, making for an even competition. Lots of nail biting. The Oilers won, 28 to 13! Go Oilers!

There's Alex, our nephew, heading back from a play. He's a go-getter!

Alex runs with the ball and all the other players just fall down! I just love football games! The crisp air, the band, the fans, the smash of helmet smacking helmet, my father in law getting so excited he nearly shakes me to pieces. Ah, yes. I can't wait for Friday again...Farwell vs. Beaverton. We're rooting for our nephew Travis and cousin Derrick on the Eagles team. That's Farwell, in case you had forgotten.

These are the four, count them, four Honeycrisp apples that grew on our tree that we just planted in the spring. The spring! The actual tree looked more like a glorified twig. We finally picked the apples after church on Sunday. Such excitement. Such anticipation. Our first apples ever. And Honeycrisps to boot!

Delicious! Serena and I gave the tree a little kiss for all the hard work it did all summer to bring us just one juicy crispy apple to enjoy. I just love Fall, don't you?

You'd have to have straw for brains not to love fall. Here we are standing in the front yard...ya gotta just love fall!

Shh....

Have you ever responded to a yelling child with more yelling? Where did (or does) it get you? A pretty big headache- that's about it. Oh, and a child who still won't listen in some cases.

Has someone ever yelled their beliefs at you a bit too strongly and you felt the urge to pull back? That's what happens to me when I feel someone is forcing their beliefs on me, whether it is a political stance, a religious one, or just a really strong opinion. To me it doesn't matter if I think you're wrong or right, I just don't care to have them thrown at me with no regard to my thoughts at all.

Like the child, I clamp my hands over my ears and you get a headache.

Yes, you will get more flies with honey. I will listen to you if you speak to me quietly and respectfully. If you raise your voice, become shrilly, or over-emotional, you have lost my attention. If your statement is drastic, irrational, or not backed up by actual unbiased facts (big mouthful), I will not hear you at all, like the child screaming while you scream.

Perhaps this is why the following was said....

"To aspire to be quiet or calm is the responsibility of every believer...it is the responsibility of every believer to desire with all their heart to be quiet and calm." Watchman Nee- The Spiritual Man (from a Joyce Meyer program)

Who do you know that is an example of quiet and calm but gets your attention? This is what we should aspire to be. In this time where beliefs threaten to divide us more than ever, we have to remain at peace inside when the storm is brewing everywhere else.

Do you want to be right? It's a lonely place. Strive to be at peace and joy will be your company!!

What's on My Mind

I'm still here, unlike Allison, who seems to have broken up with us and moved on to Facebook exclusively. Sigh...can't win them all, it's true. Miss ya, buddy.

So, I've been doing a lot of my usual fall stuff, which keeps me off this extremely slow computer. I sure wish my life was as slow as this hunk of plastic.

I've been apple picking, which resulted in a lot of applesauce, and I have even more apples to make into the promised apple pie this week. Not sure when I'll get to that, but hopefully soon. The freezer is getting full of all kinds of goodies and for that I am grateful.

I've been doing some encouraging, which blessed me last week and continues to do so. All I can say is never give up on that loved one....God is still working on them even if you feel it's impossible. We should know better, but sometimes we forget.

My buddy moved to Vicksburg and is feeling a bit lonely, so we've had some great conversations full of lots of laughter as usual. It is wonderful to have a friend who really makes time for you, and I have that in Patty. No matter what is going on in her busy life with 4 children, she makes time for her friends!! I can learn a lot from her, I suppose.

We have a load of dirt in the front yard again....I have a bedroom to paint....carpets to steam...a deck to finish (still didn't get that done)....a closet to organize....and on and on. Each day I am so grateful to be home doing all of that instead of dealing with the stress of an outside job. I'll take this any day, pitfalls and all.

This coming Saturday, I have the honor of photographing our niece, Cassie for her senior pictures. I say that so calmly, but I'm a bit of a nervous wreck. I'm not a professional. I feel I just get really lucky with my shots sometimes. I am hoping for a beautiful day full of color and that the light is "just right" for her beautiful face! So, another thing to do this week is scope out places to photograph her in the best possible way.

I will finally make it back to Pearls tomorrow after having to miss the first two. Of course, fearless leader Barb will not be there, but I'm sure Jenn will have something good. I'm helping to do an icebreaker tomorrow, which will be fun. Since leaving the Women's Ministry, I had started feeling a bit out of the loop! Oh well, there's always a loop for me somewhere, right?

Especially here, where I am never out of the loop. I'm the family manager, home manager, and dog manager. I'm the one who knows all, hears all, sees all, and cleans all. I wouldn't change a minute of it, believe it or not. Although, I truly would like to spend more time with friends and at least connecting with someone else besides my Kenmore and my beloved dog.

So, that's what's on my mind today. What's on yours? What's for dinner tonight? Any suggestions for my pictures of Cassie? Got time for coffee next week?

Love to all...have a blessed week!

Wow Moments

It's been a weird week. Steve is incredibly busy at work with all kinds of issues flying at him, which makes him later getting home, and of course, school is in full swing. What better time for me to get a migraine? Yup. Missed Serena's field trip. Made Steve have to leave work so someone could get Natalie to volleyball, Serena home from school, and pick Natalie back up at 5:00. When I'm in bed with a headache and I can't do my normal duties, I just want to scream!

BUT, the enemy would enjoy that way too much, so instead, I pray. Not for me, but for anyone and everyone who needs it. That is how I spend my sleepless hours of pain. Then the nyquil kicks in and I am finally pain free for awhile.

Monday morning came with a phone call that really blessed me. My sister, who recently gave her heart to Jesus, left me a message, an urgent message to call her right away....she thinks God has given her a purpose! I smiled as I dialed her number upon returning from school that morning. Yes. The headache had already started, but I just knew I had to call her. He indeed had given her a purpose, or maybe a project to do, and the passion and excitement in her voice was contagious! We began a wonderful conversation about our Lord and all He means to us. She asked questions, and I flipped through my Bible as I tried in desperation to find just the right words and scripture to back me up. It was there, right where I needed it. She told me how proud of me she has always been and how much she loves me. She tried to give me credit for her finding the Lord, but I told her God gets all the glory for that because He drew her to Him! She just finally turned around and said "Hello". I wasn't sure I was going to share this with people, but I am so blown away by this transformation, that I know God would want me to tell it on the mountain! My sister has that passion that every new Christian has. They want to tell everyone what they know. They want everyone to feel the excitement and the love of God. They don't care who they tell, they just want to tell! Praise God is really all I can say!

So, we ended our conversation and the phone rang right away...my friend, Patty, who recently moved to Vicksburg. I was still pretty pumped about my conversation with my sister. Patty and I go way back, and she probably knows more of my family history than anyone, so she knows why this was so exciting to me. She listened as I went on and on, and I know Patty is a believer, but she's pretty low key, so I was probably driving her nuts. Or was I? Was that God's way of getting me to open up more to her? I'm usually a little more careful in my "God speak" when talking to her...I never really knew why...Did he use my excitement over my sister to witness to Patty? Oh, why am I even asking. I know He definitely had a purpose in both of those calls.

Why I had the headache, I don't know. Why I dumped a pan of tomatoes on the bottom of my oven while on the phone, I don't know that either. I do know tomatoes stink while they are burning on the oven floor. I know stepping in tomato slime is not good for white socks.

Later, when I came out of my headache, my darling devious daughter Natalie was cleaning up the dinner dishes while Dad ran out to pick up Serena from a friend's house. I thought she looked so sweet while helping her poor sick mom. Note the previous use of the word devious....
She headed up to get ready for bed and I was talking with Steve when he got back. I went to turn on the kitchen faucet and got a sprayerful of water right in my face! Darling daughter had taped the sprayer in the "on" position for the unsuspecting fool who turned on the faucet. That was kind of a "wow" moment in itself. Now she is sleeping with one eye open, as my paybacks are you-know-what!! She couldn't contain her giggles when I told her the faucet hadn't found her sister, but had gotten me instead...the poor girl. She couldn't even fake being sorry because she was so proud that her gag had worked and worked well! She is so me!

So, wow moments. The week isn't even over and they just keep coming. I'll keep you posted on more wow moments, because I do have more to tell! Stay tuned....