Christmas Questionaire

Here is a glimpse of our Christmas blog style...

1. real or fake Christmas tree
Fake...I have enough trouble keeping us healthy without envoking the help of alergies!

2. favorite ornament
I don't have a specific favorite. But I enjoy unwrapping the ones of our first Christmas, the kids' first ornaments, the picture ones, the ones of places we have been (that is our souveneer that we shop for on trips).

3. favorite Christmas song
I love this time of year on the radio! Not so much for SweetHeart--I'll be singing along with harmony, and he says, "Let me guess, you sang that in show choir." Yep! I guess one of my favorites right now is Sandi Patti's Come Let Us Worship the King. I have been practicing signing it for church and it just sets my heart ready to worship! Travis Cotrell's new Christmas CD is high on the list too!

4. favorite tradition
Being with family, whether it is just the five of us or with 25-50 of our closest relatives (yes, seriously). I am thankful for a husband whose family cherishes family too and all are willing to share us with the other side when it is their turn. Other traditions come and go or modify, but this one is constant. If it is the five of us at home, we wear pj's all day, play with new toys, and watch movies.

5. favorite gift ever received
I have thought and thought about this one. I have received many wonderful gifts over the years, but not in particular is jumping to mind (except a razor!). My favorite is watching everyone else open the gift that we got them. The smile on their face or that "this is something I wanted but wouldn't get for myself" look. The kids are great at that "I wanted this my whole life" surprise look. (And they know I love it, so now if I miss it initially they just pose until the flash of the camera!) That is my favorite!

6. favorite Christmas meal
If we are with my side, we usually have the traditional dressing and all the fixings. (Mom makes the best cornbread dressing!) With hubby's side, we might have Mexican pile on because we have traditional meal at Mamaw's the day before. If it is just us, we have pizza! At this point in life, that is my favorite--easy prep, easy clean up, and no complaints!

7. favorite Christmas cookie
Mom, brother and I used to make "Judy's cut cookies" that are the best! I like them before they are iced. My kids like to make "painted cookies." Same cookies, just a different name! YUM! I also look forward to Muddy Buddies (aka Puppy Chow), and chocolate covered pretzels!

8. favorite place to be
With family. We have gone to grandparents', great-grandparents', skiing in another state, or home and we have a good time together.

9. favorite memory
Singing carols with my cousins. SweetBoy telling the Christmas story with the VeggieTales nativity scene, complete with lights off for the scene changes!

One of the funniest memories was going to cut our own Christmas tree with Sweetheart, one of my cousins and her husband. I'm not sure exactly how many rules we broke, but we had a tree that, well, looked better in the forest at dusk! And then there was the year that Sadie, our dog, got sprayed by a skunk on a bitter cold night, so she couldn't stay outside. This year we can add our journey to and from to the "yea! memories" list--tummy troubles and flat tires! It is odd that I try so hard for everything to be perfect and smooth, but the ones that stick in my memory are the ones that weren't so perfect.

10. favorite Christmas movie
White Christmas... and Court Jester. I know, that isn't a Christmas movie, but that is one of the first things I did with the whole last name family when we were dating and it was Christmas time. So it is one that I enjoy seeing this time of year!

OK. I'll have to quit there or I'll get out the picture albums and stir too many memories to tell! It is a very hectic season, but the best part is sharing it with family, and refocusing on what is really important. Jesus, God with us, came to this earth for a purpose. Now what am I going to do with His gift? That should be my focus. More on that tomorrow!

Now where were we

Ah yes, a season of thanks. The last thing I wanted to put on my list, at least for now, is my family. And it is still relavant because in the last month we have seen more of our aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents, great-grandparents, and friends than we have had the opportunity to in several years. We've met new little cousins too! We had a good time visiting, playing games, and catching up with extended family. It is such a priviledge to be part of a wonderful family--on all sides. We are so blessed, and I'm so thankful.

Between holidays, SweetHeart and I made a trip to the coast for a conference. It was nice to get away, but it was as cold there as it was at home! We have literally been from one end of the state to the other!

It has been such a busy time with mile-long to-do lists, as I'm sure you know. Now I'm thankful for a few days of rest before it is back to the routine of school and stuff.

I do love Christmas and didn't mean to skip over it here, I'll share a little more but right now my hubby wants to watch a movie. I'll get the popcorn!

Thankful for my kiddos!

1. The Word of God


2. living in the USA


3. change


4. living in this time period


5. disposable diapers!


6. friends


7. teachers


8. great deals


9. health


10. house


11. income

OK, you knew it was coming. But I just had to wait until one of those days when I could write out of true thankfulness and not trying to convince or remind myself amongst refereeing that this is a blessing! (And I better hurry and get it down!) I love their excitement about the little things when they discover them for the first time. I love their smiles and giggles. I love watching them learn and grow, when they can reach something for the first time. I love their hugs and sugars. I love that my touch or voice can calm them down. I love that they make me laugh. The latest is shopping with the little ones and SweetTate asked for goldfish. We made our choice of packages and he said with everything in him, "I wuv this one!" (That was much more enjoyable than the last time we were in Wal-Mart and SweetDoll's flip flop came off and SweetTate threw it up. It was inches from landing on top of the top row of the canned veggies! God knew I would never have been able to reach that! I can laugh about it now, but that day I was not laughing!) Through it all, I am thankful and I am so incredibly blessed by three wonderful gifts!

Thanks--pass the tissue!

1. The Word of God
2. living in the USA
3. change
4. living in this time period
5. disposable diapers!
6. friends
7. teachers
8. great deals

Today I'm getting over a cold and I'm very thankful for cold medicine and Puffs! I slept good last night so today looks brighter!

I'm thankful for our house and steady income. For so many these days, that is not a certainty. I'm thankful for a warm, safe place to be, for my kids to come home to, and to invite friends to. It is not a mansion by any means, but it is what God provided and we are so blessed.

More thanks

• Word of God
• living in the USA
• change

What am I thankful for today? Several things have come to mind...

living in this time period. I am so glad I have a dishwasher, washer AND dryer, and a microwave! I can not imagine trying to get everything done by hand! And a vacuum cleaner! For Jen it is her hairdryer. For me I think when I'm vacuuming because I can't hear the chaos going on around me. The disadvantage in that is it is usually just once a week! (Today is a cleaning day, can you tell?)

disposable diapers! I almost put it in the previous one, but I think they deserve their own bullet point!

FRIENDS! Over the weekend I had the privilege of getting together with some high school buddies. We had a good time visiting and going to the football game. God has blessed me with some good friends back then and now!

My kid's teachers. Last night was open house at school. I am so thankful for the great job SweetBoy's teachers do preparing him for his future. When he was born, I began praying for the best teachers for him. Who knew that would lead us here! But they are great! The principal isn't too bad either! ;)

Great deals! I have been couponing for about a year now, but I love free stuff! The Preacher's Wife is having a book give away this week. And then she had a link to a jewelry give away from Ellinoelle Designs this week too! How fun!

That is the list so far. I'll be back later with more!

Thankful for change

What am I thankful for today?

1. The Word of God
2. Living in the USA
3. Change

Change has been a buzz word the last year or so, and I never in a million years thought I would actually say I was thankful for change! When we moved to this house, SweetBoy's birthday party was 5 days after we moved. Just before the party, Mom unpacked the trinket box in the living room. We put things on shelves fast and furious and that is pretty much how they have stayed! My husband on the other hand seeks change. He looks at me and says, "Are you ready to move?" I offer to change the furniture around just to satisfy his itch for change!

God knew we would need change and He planned the change in the seasons and weather. I was afraid we would not have a very colorful fall, but the trees this week are showing their magnificent reds, oranges, and golds! It is beautiful! And I am thankful for the change! I'm ready for cooler days after the hot summer, and I'm ready for refreshing rain.

Not all change is good or wanted. And changing just for the heck of it or because it is a problem some other place but not here, is frustrating! Whether it is a move, a change in family dynamics, a change in leadership, or change in season, it is good to know that somethings rarely change and Someone never changes! I am thankful for my God who is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. I am thankful that His mercies are new every morning--no matter what that morning brings. And if He brings change into my life, it has a purpose.

Just in case you were wondering...this is not an endorsement of the president-elect's change he has been selling all campaign. Honestly, I am feeling a little down about the decision that has been made by our country. Only because I don't agree with the things he stands for, it has nothing to do with his race. But today is better, and these ladies had some wise thing to say about the situation: Lisa on the disapointment, Amy on teaching our kids, Beth on what to do now, Jen with a practical solution--chocolate! And yes, I have hope and believe that God has a purpose in this change too.

Thanks for the vote

These are in no particular order, but here is what I am thankful for today...

1. For the Word of God
2. That I live in the best country in the world

Today SweetDoll and I were discussing the election and why it was a big deal to go vote, and why I was choosing the presidential candidate that I was choosing. It made me realize, again, what a priviledge it is to live here. To have organized, fair elections, where each one has a voice in the decisions made. To know that even if the one I choose isn't elected, God is still in control. (Check out this great reminder of that fact from Beth Moore on this election day.) And I have the freedom to believe in the One True God and worship Him in this country. What a priviledge to live here! Thanks to all the military men and women who made it possible and still make it possible. And thanks to their families!

Season of Thanks

I heard this idea a while ago, and I might actually do it this year. Let your kids cut leaf shapes out of different colors. Then everyday (or when I think of it) in November, have the family write something they are thankful for on a leaf and decorate the house/room with the leaves. In this culture of gimme and over-abundance, I want to focus on the blessings we do have.

So today what am I thankful for?
1. God's Word--that it is so helpful, relavent and applicable to my life today! That it is a love letter to me from my Creator. That I can depend on it and He never changes. That it has all the warnings I need to know to live successfully, and is full of the wonder of God. But not all the wonder...there is always more to discover. Amazing!

Boo!

My friend, Jen, just booed me in honor of the season!

Now, this is how the Blogging Boo will work. Go to as many friends as you want and tell them they've been "Boo-ed". Have them link back to your blog to pick up their Halloween Treat (picture) and tell them to "Boo" their friends. Then, put the picture in your side bar so everyone knows that you've already been "Boo-ed" and to send the pic to someone else.
So, are you scared yet!!?? BOO!!
Okay? one more time......

1. Take picture, put on sidebar
2. Tell people they have been booed
3. Link back to who booed you

Okay- Get to BOOING!

Here is a story for those of you not playing the bloggy game...When SweetDoll was born, Granny was here helping. She and SweetBoy went to storytime at the library and they talked about pumpkins. Then when they went to Wal-Mart...wouldn't you know! They had pumpkins for sale and Granny never says no! ;) So we tried our hand at carving a pumpkin. He affectionately became known as "Barney the smooky jack-o-lantern." (SweetBoy didn't quite get the spooky part!) So, 5 years later, here is "Barney the smooky jack-o-lantern 2!" We have some cousins who are pros at carving! Seriously! But this little guy will have to pose as our masterpiece this year! Happy Fall!

Pumpkin time!

This is my favorite pumpkin bread recipe because it is so easy! Amanda, at Baby Bangs, raved about these pumpkin chocolate chip cookies that sound really good. And this recipe was the on the siesta site recently. Enjoy the season!

Pumpkin Bread

3 cups sugar
3 1/2 cups flour
1/2 tsp. baking powder
2 tsp. soda
1 tsp. cloves
1 tsp. nutmeg
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 1/2 tsp. salt
4 eggs
1 cup cooking oil
2/3 cup water
2 cups pumpkin (I use the little can and just add a tidge of applesauce to make the rest of the 2 cups.)

Mix all ingredients well. Place in 2 large loaf pans or 1 bundt pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour and 30 minutes. (This must be for a bundt pan, because in loaf pans it doesn't seem to take this long--maybe an hour.)

What we have been up to this fall

Well, first of all we have had a birthday girl! Sweet Doll turned 5! Her big gift was a 2-wheeler bike with training wheels, she calls it SeaStar. When I purchased the smallest one, I didn't think there was any way it would be too little. It was! So the next day we had to exchange it. Now we are rockin' and rollin'!

Biking is something we have been doing more lately. I brought my old bike home from my parents' house and had it fixed up. Then our neighbors were getting rid of their toddler bike trailer--perfect for Sweet Tate! We enjoy riding our bikes to go pick up Sweet Boy from school. (Every little bit saving gas helps!)

This fall our community center offered a dance class for Sweet Doll's age and a science class for Sweet Boy's age group. They have had a good time with it. I meant to take a picture of Sweet Boy in action, but I kept forgetting my camera. They did things like Mentos in Diet Coke, microwaving Ivory soap, and concocting corn starch and water--too fun! It all reminded me of my brother!

I went with Sweet Boy's class on a field trip to the pumpkin patch.

And we went camping with Granny and Papa. Since we missed our annual big camping trip this summer, the kids were really looking forward to this weekend trip. It was a nice get away. And have I mentioned the weather has been gorgeous!

Then there is the annual festival at SweetHeart's hometown. Mmm...Mamaw's corn chowder. If I ever get the recipe, I'll have to pass it along! We had fun with the rides and walking around the booths. And of course, seeing family! (Sweet Boy was the photographer here. Sweet Tate is in the back and Sweet Doll is in the front.)

Sweet Sadie

I just realized after looking at Jen's blog that it has been a month since I posted! I've been writing them in my head, they just aren't making it to the computer. And we have been quite busy. I'll fill you in on some of that next time (mostly because I know it might be a while before I post again and I'd rather that stay up than this). For this one I have to share some sadness. I realize this is probably more for me than anyone, but this is where I am right now.

Last week we had to put our Sweet Sadie to sleep. She had been our dog for almost 12 years. SweetHeart said, "You knew this day would come." To which I replied, "Yes, but I had not planned on her being my dog!" When we got her in January 1997, we knew that SweetHeart would be gone a month in the summer for school and I had to stay home for school, Sadie was going to be my guard dog and companion. And she always was. Nobody came near the house that we didn't know about it! Or her arch enemy...the vacuum cleaner! She always wanted to be where I was. Unless she decided I was moving around too much, then she got in her favorite spot, which much to my dismay was my bed--usually under the covers! But when I did land somewhere, she was always there beside me. When the kids came along, if there wasn't room beside me, she patiently waited until they were asleep and then it was her turn! I have teased that I can handle three kids. It's the dog that pushes me over the edge! Because inevitably I would get everyone settled, and Sadie would need to go out or need food or need in. I am realizing now how much she helped. I never had to sweep under the table because she picked up all the crumbs. This week I have seen how messy we really are! One of our favorite stories is when Sweet Boy was about 2, he was eating a snack in the living room and I was in the other room. He called for Sadie two or three times, and I said, "Honey, Sadie is outside." And he said, "Oh. I'm going to need a napkin then, Mom."

So this week has been sad. I vacuumed for the first time in 12 years without attack dog charging in to save us. The garbage truck came without her watchful eye. I haven't opened the gate to her room or the back door to let her out. She isn't there to say bye to as I walk out the door, or greet us when we get home. I dropped food when I was cooking and didn't hear her scamper into the kitchen when I said "Oops." (She was so well trained!) She is not at my feet as I type this, and tears roll down my cheeks. It has been very wierd because I don't know how to feel or react or how others might react. I know it is not like loosing a child and I would never compare it to that. I've been in a family with that happening, so I want to be so careful what I say. But there is a hole in our family. A being I'm not caring for anymore. A level of protection gone. A missing companion. And I didn't expect to be so heartbroken.

So here is the God-thing of it all. Friday morning before the decision that it would happen that day was made--before I even knew I needed it, a friend called and asked my two little ones to come and play. So they were gone and taken care of. That was such a blessing of friendship and provision that God took care of so I could be there and so I could loose it. You know you just can't cry and loose it with little ones around. It's a God-thing that I know He cares about me and understands my heartache more than anyone and I am safe with Him. And this may be a little bit of a stretch, spiritually speaking, because I know dogs don't really have a will. They don't have a choice to do God's plan for them or not. They are just dogs. But Sadie glorified God because she did what she was made to do. I want to bring glory to my Heavenly Father because I did what He made me to do.

Here are some pictures (big surprise!). Last year on Mother's Day the kids and I posed for a picture and Sadie came a posed too! It was so funny! We teased that she was the fur-child. And we have teasingly said that we made all our parenting mistakes on her! Ha! I wish that were true!

Did I mention she liked to nap with anyone anywhere? Here she and the kids are cuddled up in the tent--all asleep!

This is the last picture I took with her in it. She was just always in the background...and we miss her. Sweet Doll said, "Sadie was such a good dog." And she was. Thank You, God, for blessing us through Sweet Sadie.

Early Text Messages

I must preface this with this fact...I am so not techno savvy. I have no idea how to send a text message! But here is the story. I was watching SweetTate play with a calculator the other day and remembered the day when we would try to write words with the numbers. Do you remember doing that? Then when I started working, I got a pager as part of the deal. It was nice. SweetHeart could page me when he had a minute, and if I was free, I could return his call. Sometimes he would just put in "777." That was just a "Hi, love you" message.

So one weekend, Mom and Dad were coming into town. I told her she could page me with "303" because you know, sideways that spells mom. When they arrived, Mom didn't remember the exact numbers I had said so she used the letters on the phone to spell mom. Well the page I received read "666". My first thought was Boy, I must have really ticked SweetHeart off this morning! But I was expecting Mom's page and soon figured it out. Now it would have come through clearly, but back in the day it was a good laugh! Happy texting!

Aaaah! Routine!

I am one of those people who really needs a little structure but can't stand to be tied to it. But there is just nothing like the lazy days of summer to make you appreciate the routine that school brings! We have a 2nd grader now! SweetBoy just stepped back into school and never missed a beat. I am amazed at how the world opens up as they begin to read efficiently.

I can't believe this is SweetDolls last year at home before school starts! It is really hitting me this week how big she is getting. This week we will go back to storytime at the library, and she is starting a dance class offered through our community center. And let me tell you, she is so excited!

SweetTate is potty training--not my favorite phase of childhood, but we are surviving. And we had the end of an era at the Sweet house this week...for some reason, SweetBoy decided it was time for SweetTate to get a big boy bed and take the crib/converted toddler bed out of their room. That meant fruit-basket-turn over with furniture over the weekend. I wasn't particularly ready for the switch. I hadn't purchased coordinating bedding or pshyched myself up for my baby to make that next step or to move the crib out. For the past 8 years we have had the baby bed up with a child in it or anticipating one to be on the horizon. I am satisfied with our family of five; it is just feels odd.

So here we are with the familiarity of school, storytime, football games, and the change of growing children. It feels good for a time, but you can bet that by next May we will be ready to bust out of the routine!

Speaking of May, here is a funny story I'll try to relate in print, but I'm sure it will loose something--just use your imaginations. SweetDoll's birthday is coming up, so she will often ask how long until her birthday. Well, SweetTate has to do everything Sister does, so he asks in that cute toddler-speak, "When my birday is?" I tell him the date of his birthday to which he replies with a big smiling, "Oh!" "What do you know about birthdays," I ask. And he says loudly with big hands (I wonder where he gets that), "COOL!" Already he has figured out that birthdays are cool!

Olympic dreams

Ok. I know the olympics are old news, but I had this post in my head I just didn't get it down until now. Do you know how that goes? I love watching the olympics from opening ceremonies to closing. I like the pagentry of the home country culture (and wasn't it spectacular!), the bio-stories of the athletes, the close races (men's swimming relay!), the realized dreams (Nastia and Shawn--women's gymnastics), the surprise medal finish (men's gymnastics)... I don't like to see it, but it is part of the games--the disappointment of unrealized dreams so close. When I was younger, I wished that I could do something like that. Now that I'm older and wiser, I know there is no way I'll ever reach olympic gold. And I'm fine with that as I watch my kids practice sprints up and down the hall, timing themselves as they train for thier olympics! We'll see!

I may not reach a gold medal, but I do have dreams. I have three precious children that it is my job to train and prepare for life. After the Israelites left Egypt, wondered in the dessert, finally entered the Promised Land, and defeated their enemies, it was time to inhabit their Promised Land. Joshua sent them out with this charge:

But be careful to obey all the commands and the instructions that Moses gave to
you. Love the Lord your God, walk in all His ways, obey His commands, hold
firmly to Him and serve Him with all your heart and all your soul.

Joshua 22:5

When I send my kids out on their own, they need to know these things. Am I living the example? Am I intentionally teaching them God's Word? These are my training days that I need to put in the work no matter who is watching. And one day, they will be mature adults who love God, walk in His ways, obey Him, hold on to Him and serve Him. That will be my realized dream moment.

Moms have a hard job and much of it goes unnoticed and unappriciated. If I can encourage you, my fellow moms, along the way, I would say keep doing what you are doing--God sees! I had seen this story in an email before, but Nicole Johnson brings it to life so well.

Love my Siestas!

Wow! What a weekend! I have no idea who these girls are, but I thought it was a neat picture of the weekend. They may not have even known each other face to face before Friday, or they may have known each other for years! But that is what Siestas do...walk together under the umbrella of God's love through life's rain.

The teaching, the worship, being with the siestas, putting faces with screen names (like The Preacher's Wife and BooMama), spending time with Jen, my bff from high school, and my mom was great. But most of all I have been with Jesus! A couple of cool things...I made some cards for my roomies before we left and one of them was Psalm 16. After we sang incredible worship with Travis (one song in particular was In Christ Alone), Psalm 16 began to scroll on the screen. Then Beth said turn there for our main passage, I just got goosebumps! Then I flew home Sunday just in time to make it to church with my family. Guess what we sang...In Christ Alone and Enough! It was like God was saying, "yes, we had a sweet time in San Antonio, but here is where I have your lot set for now and for a purpose." Talk about God Stops! I just love it when He shows up personally like that!

The things they say!

My kids are notorious for saying silly things. And maybe it is just my sense of humor that finds them funny, but here is one of the latest...

SweetDoll was playing the boxing game on the Wii, and she was really into it--fists flying, feet moving, red cheeks. "Mom, I'm fighting like a prairie dog!" I didn't know that prairie dogs were known for their intense boxing skills! And at our house we have a running joke of school mascots that are just hard to picture. You know, it is easy to see the "fighting Tigers, " but the "fighting Zebras"? So if ever we are in a position to pick a school mascot, my vote might very well be...the prairie dogs!

Favorite Things--summer edition 2008

Jen suggested this post...

1. We usually get Blue Bell, but summer is the time for homemade vanilla ice cream!
2. Getting together with family--family reunions, camping trip, just-for-because trips
3. Escaping the heat to cool Colorado (missed that one this year)
4. The sound of my kids squeals of joy playing in the water
5. Yes, continuous spray sunscreen!
6. PJ/movie days when it is too stinkin hot outside!
7. reading
8. Air Conditioning--Are you seeing a theme here? We routinely walk in the house and say, "Thank You, God, for air conditioning!"
9. A slower pace where we don't have to be someplace every day.
10. SweetHeart's schedule relaxes and he is home for lunch most days.
11. Fresh garden veggies
12. Summer Bible study with the girls! (Have I mentioned that No Other Gods by Kelly Minter is incredible!)
13. In early summer the fireflies come out. I still think God really outdid Himself with those creative creatures! They just fascinate me!

Where did July go?

Hey! Long time no see! I'm sorry it has been a while since I last put up a post. Let's see...we have had a birthday boy! Happy Birthday, SweetBoy! And an All-Star Baseball tournament, visit from cousins on my side, Cousin Swap '08, trip to hometown, and I have had a cough that won't quit!

Let me just explain a little about Cousin Swap...this is what SweetBoy wanted for his birthday party. It is where all 11 of the lastname cousins, ages 15 to 2, come to our house for 24 hours. (Jen, the one on the left was the baby at our wedding!) The swap part is that next time it is one of the other families' turn to host it and we get 24 hours to ourselves! We had so much fun! We are blessed with some pretty great kids!

And I believe on the last post I mentioned a book that I wanted to tell you about. It is called The Love Languages of God by Gary Chapman. (He also wrote The Five Love Languages books.) The five love languages are pretty profound when applied to earthly relationships. If you have not read it, I highly recommend it. If you haven't read it yet, here are the 5 primary love languages he suggests: quality time, words of affirmation, acts of service, gifts, and physical touch. He takes those same love languages and applies it to your relationship with God. "How do you feel most loved by God?" The answer to that question will most likely fit right in with your primary love language. For me that is quality time and words of affirmation, and I feel most loved by God when I spend time in His Word. I've always known it was important to read my Bible, but for me that really satisfies my soul and now I understand why! Then the author turned it to show how we can express our love for God in the various love languages directly to Him or to His children. Sorry I left you hanging so long, but I just had to share it. Great book!

Then I had a doctor's appointment and picked up a little book that would fit in my purse. It was The Secrets of the Vine by Bruce Wilkerson. It is an indepth look at John 15 where Jesus teaches about He is the Vine and we are the branches. Hmm...it has some rich stuff! Another good quick read!

All of that to say...at the beginning of the year Jen asked what the theme of the year was. I said it was "giving my best." God is continuing that theme through the summer with what I'm hearing from pastors and teachers and what I'm reading and studying (No Other Gods by Kelly Minter--WOW!). He wants more of me, and I have to have more of Him. Unfortunately I get bogged down in the mundane of motherhood, but He can take that and make it valuable if I do it with the right attitude. I have no idea what tomorrow holds, but I'm holding on to Him knowing that He will show me the way!

That has been my summer reading! I did read a pleasure book too that was fun. Oh, and a book about coaching your kids to be leaders--very interesting too. I don't remember the last time I have read so much--before kids I'm sure!

Whew! The summer rolls on!

Well, we have had


a great-grandmother's 94th birthday celebration,
a last name family reunion,

a trip to hometown with grands and great-grandparents and on to visit other greats (it was so fun to watch my kids play in the house and with the toys that my brother and I used to play with, we played Fast Track, and Great-Granddaddy made the big kids stilts!) and back to hometown...

while we were there, we had fun on the Bonzi Blaster and played in the pool,

riding horses (some of Granny's friends have two horses that they let us ride for almost an hour--the kids loved it!)

Mema always enjoys the kids coming to her house for coffee break and playing or reading stories with her.

The big kids and I went for a hike to see a national monument one day. And camping in the camper in the backyard with Granny and Papa was a big adventure!

Then we came home to VBS at our church! Then a weekend of All-Star baseball! I know, "Makes me tired just thinkin' about it."

And this week, SweetDoll had a sleepover at a cousin's house, and SweetBoy stayed with Meme and Granddad. SweetTate stayed home, and Mom took a deep breath! This month looks like it will slow down, thankfully. I read a book I want to tell you about and I just started a really good Bible study...until next time! Enjoy your summer!

Let the Summer begin!

First of all, we have a birthday boy! Happy Birthday, SweetTate!

One of my goals this summer...string fun days together for a fun summer. Here we go!

What more can you ask for in the hot summer than fun in the water!

SweetBoy purchased a balloon kit, thankfully it included a pump! We spent the afternoon attempting to get them blown up and create something...before they popped! SweetBoy made some snails. Then I became the balloon sword craftsman and repair shop! Can't you just hear those giggles!

The Mom Paparazzi

As I sat on the sidelines with another mom with her camera, we teased that we are the Mom Paparazzi! Following our little celeb's every move and documenting their every accomplishment, ordinary days, and silly moments. Yes, that is part of my job description--Mom Paparazzi! Here are a few snapshots of my sweet celebrities that I have caught on film lately.

SweetDoll was seen at a friends dress up tea party doing a little spin on the stage.

SweetBoy had a great baseball season contributing to his team with many hits and rbi's.

The whole family worshiped together at church Easter morning before gathering with the rest of the family at Mamaw's for lunch and the big egg hunt.

Anyone for a campout inside?

What Mom? I'm just playing like Brother & Sister. This way I can reach the goal!

14 years and counting!

This month we celebrated our 14th anniversary! Wow, have things changed in 14 years! Three degrees, 8 jobs (between the two of us), 6 apartments/houses, 6 vehicles, 1 dog, 3 kids... and many more changes to come! Love you, SweetHeart!

One of those days...enjoy the moments

This is a "steal magnolias" post.

My day (yesterday) started with SweetTate walking into my room, wet from neck to toe! I striped him down, cleaned him up, and got a new diaper. Then I went to his room to change the sheets, but his bed was completely dry. How could he be that wet and his bed be totally dry? About that time SweetDoll said, "Eew!" as she leaned on Brother's bed--SweetTate had gotten on Brother's bed and it was all wet. So I started stripping the bed and cleaning the carpet. I went into my bathroom to get a rag for the carpet job and found SweetTate spraying bathroom cleaner all over the bathroom! Finally got ALL that cleaned up and got breakfast ready. Thankfully I had just put the lid back on the very full bottle of purple grape juice because SweetTate pushed it off the cabinet! Then SweetDoll proceded to spill the milk in her cereal. To which I responded in a loud, stern, frustrated mom voice, "Sit down, eat your breakfast, and stop goofin' off!" SweetDoll replied in a loud, stern, frustrated daughter voice, "Is that the way you talk to your daughter?"

We finally made it through breakfast. Mom called to tell me something that I checked out online (more on that in a minute). While I was on the computer, I heard sounds in the bathroom. I found SweetTate picking up a wad of toilet paper out of the potty, sqeezing it, and dropping it back in the potty. I really think he dropped it because I scared him when I yelled, "Gross! Gross! Gross!" (I'm praying it was clean water that he put clean paper in there!) Got that all cleaned up...again gross! Later I was holding him and kissed his forhead and his hair was wet. I thought Oh, I hope that was just sweat! And it wasn't even lunchtime yet!

Mom had called to see if I had heard the news about Steven Curtis Chapman's family. His baby daughter, Maria, who just turned 5 was killed in a car accident. Their story was so similar to our family's that I was just sad all day and cried several times. As I recounted my day to SweetHeart, I laughed about it. And then cried because I'm sure my Mom, as well as the Chapman family, would treasure another potty diving day, and I spent the day being frustrated with my kids.

Two songs come to mind. One is by 2Moms called "These Days"
(chorus)
These days are here, these days are now.
Help us treasure every day somehow.
Don't look back or up ahead, but live and love today.
These days are here, and then they're gone.
Help us be content they won't last long.
For we only have these days.

And Steven Curtis Chapman's "Cinderella". The funeral is tomorrow. Please pray for the children who inspired this, the momma who loves them, and the daddy who penned these words...
She spins and she sways
To whatever song plays
Without a care in the world
And I'm sitting here wearing
The weight of the world on my shoulders

It's been a long day
And there's still work to do
She's pulling at me saying, "Dad I need you
There's a ball at the castle and I've been invited
And I need to practice my dancing
Oh please, Daddy please"

So I will dance with Cinderella
While she is here in my arms
'Cause I know something the prince never knew
Oh, I will dance with Cinderella
I don't want to miss even one song
'Cause all too soon the clock will strike midnight
And she'll be gone...

No matter if it is going to college, getting married, or going to heaven "all too soon the clock will strike midnight" so enjoy today with your kids, even if it is just over the phone. :)

I've been reading other's blogs about this. One just said "no words" can express my feelings. The Preacher's Wife had a very good post that blessed me. Lysa TerKeurst lost her sister also and put words to the "deep grief."

I know that I know!

I'm doing Beth Moore's David: 90 Days with a Heart Like His devotional book. This is one of the questions this week and I wanted to throw it out here to see what you know too.

What are some things you know to be true about God?

I know that He is good, faithful, and truth. He can be found. He is holy. I can be in His presence. He is my guide, my source of joy, my friend, and my teacher. I know He is sovereign. (Then I ran out of room in the blank!)



How could these bold, unchangeable declarations speak hope and encouragement into your life today? What current situations would look different through this kind of lens?

I don't know about you, but for me that is certainly encouraging for any situation! Beth said, "In confusing times, recounting what we do know refreshes us." That helps us too because "in times like these, we find out whether we have based our faith on who God is or on what He does." I want to know Him more!

Your turn!

I'm glad I'm a mom because...

Recently Jill Savage had a contest "I'm glad I'm a Mom because...". I didn't enter, but it did start me thinking about it this Mother's Day season.

I'm glad I'm a Mom because...When SweetBoy crosses the plate to score in his baseball game, he looks to the stands and flashes a big smile and thumbs up...at his mom. When SweetDoll gives me a great big hug for no reason and says "I love you, Mom!" When SweetTate walks through the dark hallway to my room in the middle of the night with his blanket and pillow in tow to crawl in bed...with his mom. All the kids did this, right now it is SweetTate's turn...when we pick him up at the nursery, he runs from wherever he is straight to...his mom's arms for a big hug. I'm glad I'm a Mom because I have the sweetest kids! And I'm glad I'm a Mom because God has taught me so much about Himself as my Heavenly Father. He is my biggest fan. In His Word, He daily gives me a big hug and tells me He loves me. And no matter what the situation, I know I can go to Him to cry, complain, celebrate, or just rest. I am so blessed to be a Mom!

D O L L A R S

I don't know about you, but with the price of gas, groceries, and everything else going up, lately I have been looking for ways to stretch our dollars. I have not been one to clip coupons or be organized to do that, but stories of my friends saving so much and bloggers spending $50-60 a week to feed their families inspired me to try saving money in our grocery budget. Here are some resources that I have found to be very helpful:


Don't want to clip all the coupons, but still use them efficiently?...CouponMom is the sight for you! Just starting out understanding an efficient way to use coupons this is great information! And it is free!


Want to know the grocery deals for your favorite store?...check this out! BeCentsAble has the Grocery Gathering each Monday and Thursday. When the sale circulars for the stores come out (Sunday or Wedensday), look here to find the best deals. They include where to find the coupons even! And it is free! I like CouponMom, but the Grocery Gathering includes mores stores. And I just found info about MyGroceryDeals on this sight--very helpful to making that grocery list of deals!


Need a little inspiration and information? This blog is a real mom stretching some dollars in practical ways. I want to get our groceries down close to $300 a month. So far I'm at $170. I'll let you know how it goes!

One of those days

Have you ever had one of those days that you just need chocolate and a visit with a good friend? Me too. Grab your KitKat, Oreo, or favorite Hershey...or all of the above. This is what has been happening around here lately.

• baseball games--SweetBoy got a hit and scored in their first win of the season!


• field trips and PTA programs


• I'm feeling the need for major spring cleaning. This is the longest we have ever lived in one house, so I've missed the moving clean out...and added two kids! Enough said! I've got to get busy! Maybe I do a before and after for motivation!


• helping friends out by keeping kids, picking kids up or making meals. After a lonely season, I'm so glad to have friends!


• SweetDoll went with me to a Mother/Daughter banquet. All of the Lastname granddaughters were there!


• SweetTate has decided he wants to be a big boy and sit with us instead in the high chair. Our house looks less like a baby lives here!


• spring flowers, beautiful...spring alergies, annoying!

We were at a place where a lady did face painting. Can you tell? On the way home they told tales of Tiger Boy and Kitty Kid with their rival Snake Arm and Bug Boy! Too funny!

At the end of the day there is still time to enjoy a good book with Mom! (It is about time to move to the couch!) Hope you enjoyed your chocolate! I look forward to hearing from you too, friend!

What Mom Doesn't Need That!

A few weeks ago I read this passage, made some notes in my journal, and in the margin I wrote What Mom doesn’t need this! Then a few days later my Mom-in-law calls and says, “Do you have something you could share at the Mother/Daughter banquet we are having at church?” Um…Yes! I just love it when He works that way!

The first verse of this is one of my favorite Scriptures, but when I read it this time, the verses after it really caught my attention too. (Don’t you just love God’s Word!)

Colossians 1:9-12
For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have
not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of His
will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. And we pray this in
order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please Him in every
way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God,
being strengthened with all power according to His glorious might so that you
may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully giving thanks to the Father,
who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom
of light. (NIV)

Vs. 9
Have you ever wanted to know what God wants to do in your life? This verse tells us we can ask Him for a complete understanding. Need wisdom? He can make us wise with spiritual wisdom. Make this personal and pray this for yourself. Pray this for your husband, your children, your pastor, missionaries…continue to pray. What Mom doesn’t need that!

Vs. 10-12
These verses describe a life worthy of the Lord that pleases Him in every way.
* Bears fruit in every good work (vs. 10) -- No matter where or what you are doing, continue to do good, kind things for others glorifying God.

I recently finished Beth Moore’s study on the Patriarchs—everything Jacob worked at prospered because of God. Just ask Joseph in jail, it might not look like success by the world’s standards, but he continued to do good and God blessed him even in prison.

This isn’t how much work I do; it is how much I let God participate and guide my work.
I have a saying on my kitchen wall that says, “Anyone can count the seeds in an apple. Only God can count the apples in a seed.” We all have children—physical children and/or spiritual children. We need to diligently and intentionally nurture those apples God has given us with God’s Word. We have no idea what God may have in their future—how many apples with more seeds may be there for them.

* Knows God better and better (vs. 10)
When SweetBoy was little, I was overwhelmed at the responsibility to teach him God’s ways. Then one morning SweetHeart's Bible was on the table, and SweetBoy asked, “Read me a story.” And God whispered my answer, “Just let My Word be part of his every day.” The same is true for all of us. Whether you read a devotional book, an in-depth Bible study, or read your Bible and journal yourself, let God’s Word be part of your every day and you will know Him better and better.

* Let God strengthen you with all power according to His glorious might (vs. 11)
I can not do it in my own power. When Jesus fed the 5,000 plus people, I imagine that the disciples passed out a handful, then had to go back to Jesus for more. He was the Source. He still is. It is a choice. I can choose to seek His strength and allow Him to do His thing, or I can choose to do it myself. Sometimes it is hard for me to ask for help, even from God, but look at this.

Psalm 89:17
You are their glorious strength. Our power is based on Your
favor. (NLT)
(One version says “It pleases You to make us strong.”)

What Mom doesn’t need that!

* Strengthened so that you may have… (vs. 11)
· Great endurance—not just a little bit, great endurance!
· Great patience—not just a little bit, great patience!
· Joyful thanksgiving to the Father -- At the end of the day, there is strength enough to say thanks to the One who is working in you. Joy because of what God is doing. Joyful thanks is praise!

Psalm 50:23
But giving thanks is a sacrifice that truly honors Me.

Endurance, patience, reminder to be thankful…What Mom doesn't need that!

Vs. 12
Yes, we will be judged for what we do. But it is not me or my work that is good enough to get the inheritance. It is God who qualifies me for the inheritance. So here is my motivation for working…

Colossians 3:23-24
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as for
working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an
inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are
serving.

And we can count on this promise of reward.

Revelation 22:12
“Behold, I [Jesus] am coming soon! My reward is with
Me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done.”

So much of what we do as women, moms, sisters, wives, daughters is not noticed or appreciated. Know that what you do is important and lasting and pleasing to God. Hang in there--the reward is coming. What Mom doesn’t need to know that!

Father, please fill us with the knowledge of Your will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. Guide us to live lives worthy of You that we may please You in everything we do. Help us to diligently and intentionally bear fruit. Draw us to You that we can grow in our knowledge of You. Thank You for Your glorious strength and the great endurance and patience that comes from You. Thank You for qualifying us for the inheritance of Your Kingdom. Thank You for Your Word and its wonderful promises that You give us. You are so faithful! In Jesus’ name we pray…Amen.

Let the Games Begin!

Last night was SweetBoy's second baseball game. And I'm ashamed to say that I have forgotten my camera at both games! He has moved up a league, it is amazing the difference in the skill level a year makes! One of our players even caught a pop fly for an out! (At this level that is super exciting!) SweetBoy got a double last night--his first hit of the season. It was such an exciting game! Our team lost by one in the last inning, but, oh, it was fun to watch!

We are headed to our favorite home pro team in a few weeks! I can smell the hot dogs and hear the crack of the bat! It is officailly spring now!

Not normal, but blessed!

This week just didn't go like a normal week around our house--and I was so blessed. A friend called last Sunday that her mother was not well at all and they flew her to the Big City hospital. It turned out that her mom had an anurism. A little background...my friend has CP--very intelligent, very loving young lady trapped in a body that just doesn't cooperate and is basically bedridden. Her mom is not only her care taker, but her best friend. My friend and I talk on the phone often, but we don't see each other that much. On Tuesday my friend called and said they had decided to take her mom off the respirator the next morning and asked if I could come be with her at home. I made arrangements to be there. Then she called and said the time was moved up; it would be that afternoon. I left my vacuuming half done, laundry on the floor, gathered my two little ones to take to Meme's, and headed out the door.

I had no idea what to expect. When I arrived there were mutual friends there already praying and loving her. She shared with us that the pastor called from the hospital, and he put his phone where her mom could hear. My friend talked to her and prayed for her. And the peace of God filled the room in a very real way that was noticeable. Their dogs had been nervous and active even calmed down. And a family member at the hospital texted to say that the mom's heart rate calmed while her daughter prayed. What a gift to a daughter who could not be there! There was a circle of friends and family members with my friend and a circle of friends and family members at the hospital. The body of Christ is amazing!

In that time we visited, laughed, cried, prayed. And my friend never once gave up hope that if God chose to, He could heal her mom. All the while knowing that if there was not healing on this earth, there would be in Heaven. I learned later, in the last moments, her dad embraced her mother close, praying in her ear. And the pastor said, "Look at her face. She is looking for you." And her eyes were open and she had a tear. Then she was gone. (The pastor asked a nurse if it was normal for people to open their eyes like that. She said it was very unusual.) I left her house feeling very blessed to be a part of the body of Christ and see Him at work. To know He was so compassionate and met a very real, personal need in a very real, personal way. To see His faithfulness to my friend and know that He always was, always is, always will be faithful and He knows me too.

Today at the funeral, my friend did get to be there. She had taped a message she wanted to share. It was so full of faith strength, peace, hope, and love that so clearly came from the Father. I told her that the pastors who spoke did a fine job, but it could have been over after her part! Grieving with hope--I have heard that, but never seen it so clearly. Yes, this is a terrible situation, but my God is good and He loves His kids and is with them through it all.

No, my week didn't go like normal--but I have been blessed because I've been with God and His children and I know it! Glory to God!

Happily Ever After at the Dinner Table

I can handle the big, bad wolf (at least in the stories I read to my kids), but the vultures that begin to circle my dinner table every night squawking "What's for dinner?"...Aaaa! Like to plan meals, cook, grocery shop, and clip coupons? Me either! This is the information for a breakout session for a ladies event that I gathered. These are practical tips that have helped streamline the process for me. Enjoy!

1. Planning meals

• Make a list of the meals your family ususally has
• Plan it on the calendar making allowances for busy days or company (you might plan for a week or two, maybe the whole month--whatever works for you)
• Have a plan B--have a list of restaurant deals!
• Resources--Once-a-Month Cooking by Mimi Wilson and Mary Beth Lagerborg (there are two editions, the latest one has more "family friendly" recipes), these two websites have recipes and ideas for make ahead meals Busy Cooks and 30 Day Gourmet, Relish! will give you the recipes and grocery list for the week for a subscription (there is a free trial)

2. Grocery shopping

• Organize your list by the order of the store aisles.
• Print your list off the computer and mark off what you don't need OR print it off and highlight items as you need them instead of making a list. It is much easier to mark off a list than try to remember everything you need.
• Resource--My Grocery Checklist will let you customize your grocery list by checking the items you want and print it (free)

3. Clipping coupons

• There are lots of online coupon helps, like The Grocery Game, that have a subscription fee.
• I use this one--If you don't like clipping all the coupons, try Coupon Mom for a list of what coupons are in which circular and clip what you need
• Stores that double and triple your coupons are the best deal
• Also check you grocery stores' web site for printable coupons. For the session, the area grocery store is United.
• Even if you just save $10-15 a trip, if you saw $10 on the ground, would you pass it by?

4. Saving time in the kitchen

• Make ahead what you can
• If your family only eats half of a recipe and aren't good at eating left-overs, freeze the other half for another time. This saves time and money.
• If a recipe is easy to double, make two--serve one and freeze one.
• Resources--again the Once-a-Month Cooking book is a great resource to learn this method even if you don't use all of their recipes. If you have the money, but not the time, there are places like Super Suppers that have the ingredients ready for you to come in and assemble, take home and freeze.

Here is one of my favorite make ahead meals from Once-a-Month Cooking.

Chicken Packets
From Once-a-Month Cooking by Mimi Wilson and Mary Beth Lagerborg

2 cups cooked, chopped chicken
1 3-ounce package cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon chopped chives
2 tablespoons milk
Salt to taste
½ cup crushed, seasoned crouton crumbs *
2 8-ounce packages refrigerated crescent rolls *
¼ cup (1/2 stick) melted margarine *

Mix chicken, cream cheese, chives, milk, and salt in a medium bowl (mixing with hands works best) to make filling, and store in a 1-quart freezer bag. Put crouton crumbs in another 1-quart bag, attach it to bag of chicken filling, and freeze. Refrigerate crescent rolls.To prepare for serving, thaw chicken mixture. Preheat oven to 350. Unroll crescent rolls. Each tube will contain 4 rectangles of dough with a diagonal perforation. Press dough along each perforation so that the rectangle halves will not separate. Place about ¼ cup of chicken mixture into the center of each rectangle. Fold dough over the filling, and pinch at the edges to seal tightly. Dip each packet in melted margarine, and coat with crouton crumbs. Place packets on a baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Packets are good either hot or cold. (Serve early in the month before date expires on crescent rolls.) Makes 8 packets.

Snow Again!!

Snow for the second time in a week! Maybe there is something to this "global wierding" weather! Thursday's snow was the best snowman making snow ever! It was so fun! By the time I got SweetTate bundled up and ready to go, SweetBoy and SweetDoll already had the base of their snowmen in place!

SweetBoy getting his just right.

SweetDoll's snow girl that she did herself!

I even got in on the action! Mine is the one on the right--too fun!

I'm so glad I have kids, so I have a good excuse to get out and play!

After supper SweetHeart made snow ice cream. YUM! It was interesting...we always think of milk being so white, but when he poured the milk on the snow it looked yellowish. It reminded me of Isaiah 1:18:

"Come now, let us argue this out," says the Lord. "No matter how deep the
stain of your sins, I can remove it. I can make you as clean as freshly
fallen snow. Even if you are stained as red as crimson, I can make
you as white as wool."

Thank You, Jesus, that You make me completely clean in the Father's eyes. Thank You for the beautiful reminder with the snow this week. Thank You for Your grace and love. Thanks for the fun with my sweet kids!

SNOW!!

This is what crazy people do in the south when yesterday it was about 75 before a cold front came through...warm enough for thunderstorms and hail last night. Then the temperature continued to fall so that we have rare significant snow tonight! (Significant being it covers the grass!) So here are the Sweet Kids bundled up playing in the snow in the dark! Before it warms back up to the 50's tomorrow!



Several Christmases ago our Michigan relatives gave us the cutest snowman building kit, but we haven't had an opportunity to use it. Here is our snowman, Aunt Jeri! We tried! We'll see if there is more snow tomorrow before it warms up.

UPDATE:

We woke up to a winterwonderland! School was delayed so we had some time to really play! It was a wet snow and it stacked on everything so beautifully, but it wouldn't stick together very well. Daddy said our snow man looked more like a snow pile than a snowman. Oh well, you work with what you got!

Uncalculated Costs

You have probably seen the email that calculates the cost of raising a child--something like $185,000. I expected the monotary costs of food, clothes, housing, doctor visits...the unmonotary costs of the loss of sleep, privacy, time... Well as was vacuuming this morning, I sucked up 2, almost 3, rubberbands that I didn't see in time to save. And wouldn't you know the one I did see was broken! Since kids entered our house it seems that we never have rubberbands, paper clips, or tape! Tape! I went to wrap presents this Christmas and ran out of tape! (One year I was out of tape and used rubber cement! That was a hoot!) I put up the Christmas tree and didn't have any masking tape to secure the box. Scotch tape wouldn't hold it, and I couldn't find the duct tape! With creations like this...

it's a wonder we have any tape at all!
(I'm not sure what it is, so don't ask!)

With my mom it was clothes pins. We were always using her clothes pins to make a tent somewhere. With my Mema it was nails. My Papaw is a master carpenter, and we loved to "hammer" with his scraps. I'm sure they wondered where that new box of nails went to on more than one occasion! Of course, kids are so worth it. It just sometimes makes me laugh at the little things we run out of! So what are some of the uncalculated costs of parenting for your family?

My Best

I am not athletic, but my husband is--at least was, and now is a spectator. And I am one of those wives who decided to enjoy the game with him than be without him. Before we married, I already enjoyed football, and now I am into baseball too. And I try to stay current so I can have an intelligent conversation about what is happening in the sports world. I love to get points for my man because I like sports. When we lived in Cleburne, we were in the adult choir and one practice we were playing a game. One of my questions was, “Who are the Texas Rangers baseball announcers?” When I responded, “On the radio or TV?” and knew all four, Eric got Wow! Where did you find her? looks! I have to be careful though. Two of the brothers let me in on a fantasy baseball game because they planned on three people and the other brother couldn’t do it. Shh…don’t say anything, but I beat them! All of that to say, this girl really enjoyed the inspiring football movie Facing the Giants and that is where this is coming from.
In the movie the football coach has a change of heart where he decides winning isn’t everything and he will give God his best and praise Him no matter the outcome. He gets this concept across to his defensive line leader by asking him to death crawl (crawl on his hands and feet while carrying another player on his back) blindfolded as far as he can down the field. The player thinks he can go 30 maybe 50 yards at the most, but the coach says, “You just do you best and leave it all on the field.” And he starts. The entire way the coach is encouraging him. And when he wants to give up and it hurts, the coach is crawling right beside him encouraging him, “Don’t quit! Your best! Don’t quit!” And when he finally stops, the player asks, “Did I make it to the 50? I had to have made it to the 50.” The coach takes the blindfold off and says, “Look. You made it to the end zone. Don’t tell me what you can’t do. All things are possible with God. Give Him your best.”
This year (2008), God has asked for my best and praise Him no matter the outcome. And when I am in His Word everyday, I can hear Him encouraging me right beside me every step of the way!

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you
and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will
call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. You will
seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart. I will be found
by you,” declares the Lord…Jeremiah 29:11-14a

Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and
night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you
will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be
strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the
Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua1:8-9

Search for the Lord and for His strength, and keep on searching. Psalm
105:4

In Your strength I can crush an army; with my God I can scale any wall….God arms
me with strength, and He makes my way perfect. Psalm 18:29; 32

He gives power to those who are tired and worn out, He offers strength to the
weak. Isaiah 40:29

You are their glorious strength. It pleases You to make us strong.
Psalm 89:17

As soon as I pray, You answer me; You encourage me by giving me strength.
Psalm 128:3

So do not throw away your confidence, because it has great reward. For you
need endurance in order to do God's will and to receive what is promised. (New
English Trans.) Hebrews 10:35-36

For nothing is impossible with God. Luke 1:37

Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all
things are possible.” Matthew 19:26

I can do everything through Him who gives me strength. Philippians
4:13

I want to live in a way that I can say as Paul did…

I [Paul] have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the
faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the
Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but
also to all who have longed for His appearing. 2 Timothy 4:7-8

And don’t forget…

Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good. His love endures forever.
Psalm 136:1

That death crawl scene in the movie was just a test to prove to the player that he had more than he thought he did. Then later in the movie when the championship game was on the line, depending on him to lead the defense to hold the opposing team inside the 5 yard-line from getting a touch down, he was tired and weak. The coach said, “Four more downs. You can do it! We just need four more.” He knew that he had more strength than he thought possible. If it is hard, ask Him for help and direction! He promises over and over that if we seek Him, we will find Him. He wants to be found. He wants you to be in His will. He will show you. Be in His Word consistently and look for the answers. When SweetBoy was a baby, I had no idea how to be a mom. So I asked Him to show me what a good mom looked like. He did. He continues to. I was looking for the answer and when I found part of it, I wrote it down. Have a system of writing down the answers He shows you. You will need it for game time! There may be a pattern or theme that you can see in the answers that you might miss if you just read it and say, “Oh that is good.” Write it down! There might be more!

Whatever I may be carrying—my children, relationships, a difficult situation, job, health concerns—give God my best and praise Him no matter the outcome. My best. Because with God all things are possible, and He is with me every step of the way—through the test and through the game!

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not
for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a
reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Colossians 3:23-24

We are the Children of God!

A few weeks ago Mom called and said Steven Curtis Chapman is coming to town, do you want to come? Um...let me think about it...YES! He is one of those musicians who write songs that just speak to my life every time! From "Great Adventure" going to college, "I'll Be Here" duet with SweetHeart at our wedding, "Fingerprints of God" on the walls of SweetBoy's nursery, "Dive," "All Things New," "Believe," "One Little Heartbeat" lost in mommy-hood, to "We Are the Children of God." When we got his latest CD for Christmas, the kids loved "Children of God" and ask for it every time we get in the car. I told SweetDoll that we were going to the concert and she needed to practice and be ready to sing it with SCC. And boy was she ready! She doesn't typically sing very loud. But when Steven started playing the song, her eyes lit up! When our part came to sing, I could hear her, even with the band rockin' out! What a blessing to have a blast with my girl, and see her light up about being in God's family! What fun! Not to mention I cried, again--I do everytime, during "Cinderella." I thought of SweetHeart when Steven sang "I will be Here," and SweetBoy during "Fignerprints." SweetTate was in my arms as we sang "You are Loved." Oh, I want my kids to grow up knowing that the Father sings over them and loves them more than they can know!

Blessed "Between"

Ahhh! The brief respit between football and baseball seasons (with a little March Madness to hold us over). I have always enjoyed watching football, but nothing like living for it like SweetHeart does. And our TV was fuzzing out for the big game! Luckily we were able to go to family's house to watch the last quarter, and watch the big finish! Now baseball is just around the corner--the teams report to spring training this week! Growing up I remember especially my Papaw watching baseball games. And I would go find something else to do--watching baseball was so slow! I wish I had paid more attention! SweetHeart loves baseball! When we were dating, he took me to a game and I was hooked. Then he taught me how to score a game. Don't mention fantasy games--I can hold my own with the boys! Now we tease that we could be the commentator team calling the game! In recent years we have made it to Opening Day. This year our favorite team is away, so we will get there as soon as we can in April. But for now we will just relax and enjoy no "must see TV" at our house!

Loyalty

One of the things I wanted to blog about when I started was what God is teaching me lately. It seems like I get stuck on a word, and as I read my Bible or do a Bible study, that word just pops out. Right now it is loyal.

Last fall when all the TV shows started their new seasons, God used His Word to really get my attention that I didn't need to watch a particular show. The season before I would schedule to watch it, the kids had to be down a little early, and if I missed it, it was available to watch online--which I did. It was one of those that everybody was watching and talking about. And my Father wanted me to give it up.

The next day I read Psalm 51:10 in the New Living Translation. David is saying, "Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me." (empahsis mine)

Being a little different than I know it, the loyal stuck out to me. Loyal--God was asking me, not just to obey, but choose His side, follow His rules, be set apart, and be identified as His.

At first I thought it would be hard to avoid the show. I had no idea what I would do instead. You know, I felt like I had to do something "spiritual" or something! But God let me work on my scrapbook. Oh, I enjoyed it! I have been praying for Him to make me wise about time, and this is a project that I never set aside time to do. What I thought was going to be a punishment was really freedom! Then I read this verse in Philipians 2:13, "For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases Him." He makes it easier too!

So now it is winter and the shows are starting their new episodes again. Isn't it just like the Father to give us a booster when we need it! I'm studying The Patriarchs by Beth Moore and she gave us a little word study on "covenant kindness" and "loyal love." She said,

Through the covenant relationship we've entered by the blood of Jesus
Christ, the God of all creation is loyal to us.

2 Timothy 2:13 says it this way, "if we are faithless, He will remain faithful, for He cannot disown
Himself."

Wow! I knew He loved me first, but He promises to be loyal to me, even when I'm not. I agree with Beth when she continued, "[God's loyalty] drives me with urgency to be faithful in return. He staked His Name on our relationship. Realizing that, how could we do anything but cleave to Him with our whole hearts?" Give up a TV show? Sure, look what Jesus gave up first for me! I'm looking for more ways to show my loyalty to Him.

What's in a number

For Christmas we got a wii, which I must say even for this non-gamer, it is very fun. The whole family gets into it. SweetTater hears the little ding at the beginning at comes running from wherever he is! SweetBoy is a "pro" at boxing already. SweetDoll gives us a run for our money too. SweetHeart, being the gamer of the family, is surprised by the challenge we are to play. No matter what we play, if I want SweetHeart to play again, I have to beat him. I don't win all the time, but I can hold my own. The other day he told me I could back off! All of that to say, it is fun!

So part of the game, you can take a fitness test. It gives you three exercises on the game to play, and then it gives you a wii age from 20-80. Of course, at first I was on the old side. Now I finally got it lower than my real age! There are days that it says 61, and I feel 61! But with a birthday coming up, it feels good to see something that says I'm younger!