Wordless Wednesday--Reflections of July

More Sad News....

OK...it seems like when it rains, it pours, you know?

I got a call this morning from a very dear friend of mine. Her daughter is 30 weeks pregnant. This has been a high risk pregnancy from the start due to many many health issues of the mother. She has miscarried several times in the past. This baby, though, little Ben, has "made it" to this viable part of the pregnancy.

Yesterday, Ben and his mother, were admitted to our local hospital. She was diagnosed with Toxemia and they began medication to lower the blood pressure.

I just got the evening update from my friend. The doctors are "not concerned" about Ben. They are pumping her with steroids in an effort to help develop his lungs for this early delivery. They are saying that Ben weighs 4 pounds. Now, they are VERY CONCERNED about Ben's mother. Her kidneys are starting to shut down and there is swelling in the brain.

PLEASE...PLEASE...PLEASE say a prayer for this family!!!!!! They need a miracle. My heart is heavy for all of them. Please pray that little Ben's delivery goes well and the doctors in the NICU are able to care for him. Pray for Ben's Mom.

I appreciate it. Thanks to all, in advance.

A Sad Story

I am feeling like my blog is getting really deep this week. I learned about a family at my school yesterday and it has broken my heart. The Mother was out of town at a conference. Dad stayed home with his two daughters (1st and 3rd grade).

Mom came back to town on Saturday morning and stopped by her work for something. While there, she got a call from one of the girls who said, "Mommy, will you come home and make us some breakfast? We're hungry."

The Mother told the girls to go get Daddy to make breakfast. The girl said, "He's asleep and he won't wake up." Mom replied, "Well, try to wake him up again." The little girl did. Hearing the girls try to wake up their Dad, the Mother began to panic and went straight home only to find her husband had passed away sometime in his sleep.

This just breaks my heart! He was only in his 40's. The girls are confused and don't know what to think. And to top it all off, I found out yesterday that the family had no life insurance.

If you are visiting here today and find it in your heart to do so...please whisper a prayer for this family. Many many people in our school community are reaching out to them with support.

This is the third family at my school to lose a parent in the last 6 months. One girl called 911 when her Mother died in the Spring. One boy's Dad was shot while running from police. And we wonder why they can't sit still and learn the things we need them to in class.

It's hard to blog when you are sad.

More things on my mind...

Yesterday's post stirred some thoughts and comments in the blogging world. So, I have been doing some more thinking.

I love blogging. I love reading other people's blogs. And I love it when people come and visit my blog. As some of you know, my brothers have recently started their own blogs. I also read the blog of my SIL and my cousin. I know that my Dad, Stepmother, and In-laws all read our blogs and often comment on them. This is a GREAT way to keep up with family for sure. In fact, when my Dad and I were talking about it recently, he said, "It's a neat way to keep up. I just don't know why you would want to read a stranger's blog." I could try to explain it...but I am not sure I can really help him understand.

I feel like I "know" so many of you. I look forward to visiting your blogs and seeing what is happening with you. Of course, I am sure that things would be different in real life. But I really have blogs that I check on everyday just so I can see how you're doing. And just like real life, there are some that I check on every day and feel "closer" to. There are others that I may drop in on occasionally because it is more of a casual acquaintance. And, quite honestly, there are some that I have never revisited after a first time through.

So, here's my thought:

If we met each other in real life, would we be friends?

I would hope that for many people whose blogs I read regularly, the answer would be "Absolutely!" Sadly, though, I am not so sure this is true. Making friends takes time. Friendship has to be cultivated. It is a two way street...as each person determines if the relationship is one that is worth investing in and as each person reveals more and more of who he or she is.

The thing that blogging does (in a strange way) is remove those little judgements that we make about a person's mannerisms and general behavior (OK, maybe you don't, but I have been known to do this.) as we journey together. While the "first impression" is still there in a way...it really isn't. With those stumbling blocks removed, though, I am sure I have given some people in cyber-space more "attention" than I might have given someone in my personal life. In fact, I may be a "better cyberfriend" at times.

No, I can't explain this strange world of blogging. But, I'm glad I'm in it. And I'm glad that many of you are in it, too!

Some of you have been blogging much longer than I have. I know that some of you have arranged to meet in real life and have had a wonderful time getting to know those people that you keep up with regularly. I hope that this happens for me someday with some of my "cyber-friends".

In the meantime, I hope that you'll feel free to "stop in and visit occasionally!"

:-)

An Interesting Interaction...

This morning at church I had an interesting interaction with someone I have never met before. It has had me thinking all day, so I thought I'd share it here.

This woman, K, came over and said, "I hear you are the Pastor's wife. I wanted to introduce myself to you. I was hoping to get to know you. I'm K."

I said hello and shook her hand. Before I could say or do anything else, she launched into a whole story about how they ended up at our church. I stood quietly and listened. I learned a lot in those few minutes, but I spoke VERY little. When I would take a breath to interject or ask a question, off she'd go again without me having to say anything. At one point, she did ask me about my kids...and when I showed her three of them and explained that the fourth was in the praise band...it was as if I had said nothing because she immediately started telling me about her kids. A few minutes later, she asked me how many kids I have...as if I had never said anything to begin with!

I was quite exasperated by the time she left. The entire exchange was about 7 - 10 minutes long and I literally listened and nodded most of the time.

Here's what has had me thinking. When she came to me, she said, "I was hoping to get to know you." Really, she doesn't know anything about me. The entire conversation was about her family and how they ended up where they are now. I DO know quite a bit about her.

This is not to be judgemental. It simply reminded me that the person who is doing the most talking is really not learning much at all. It takes listening to learn. If you want to know something, you have to be quiet. You have to listen. You have to ask the questions. You have to observe. Certainly, you can talk...but it's a delicate balance, isn't it?

I have been like this before. I have monopolized a conversation. I have shifted the focus to me or something about me rather than really focus in on the other person. I know it.

K is a nice person. I can tell she's had a lot of experiences in different kinds of churches. I know that she really enjoys the worship at our church. I know about her family. And that's OK.

I think this exchange served to remind me that I need to practice the art of listening and learning. I think there's a lot of wisdom in it.

Wendy Wing's Emmy Gown

My cousin, Lynn decided to participate in Mysterious Lady's effort to find Wendy Wings a gown for her trip to the Emmys. Since I am quite jealous that someone I "know" (even if it is via blogging) gets to go to the Emmy's....I thought it would be fun to participate in this little challenge. I know I am signing on late...I have seen some beautiful gowns picked out already...but here is the one from Alberta Ferretti that I found:



There are so many pretty gown!! I can't wait to see what she actually picks!!

Ribbit...ribbit

Some of you read my story about my FIL coming over to rescue me from the dreaded tree frog. DS 4 (our animal lover) has not stopped talking about this new pet!! He and dh researched keeping them as pets. They have talked about it...and planned..although no progress was made on it yesterday. Actually, I thought the idea might "die" (not the frog) and we might convince DS 4 to put the frog out in our pond....

This morning, I slept in. The house was strangely quiet for 9:30. Usually I can hear DH or DS 4 since they are early birds. I looked around and couldn't find them. My car was gone. I thought, "Maybe they just went up to the store...." Although I didn't know why they would do that since DH made a grocery run last night.

TWO HOURS passed. With every minute passing, I knew this could NOT be good. DH does NOT like to shop. He is quick about it. DS 1 woke up and called his Dad. When asked what they were doing, DH replied, "You'll have to see when we get home."

Not long after the phone call, DH and DS 4 enter the house with a new Bunny Cage (to replace the cage we already have), a new picture of a whale, a Hershey Kiss Fondue Pot and............YEP, you guessed it right......an aquarium for the frog.

Now, DS 3 has taken to research on the Internet (as if we need more research) to identify it. Ten minutes ago, I walked out to find DH, DS 4, and DS 3 claiming, "We think it's a girl." Ppppuuuulllleeeeaaazzzeee!!!!! Why does this matter? DS 3 assures me that it DOES matter because it's the "boys who sing."

I can take almost anything. Nothing really surprises me anymore. Now we have to go buy crickets or meal worms for this frog to eat....although if you buy mealworms, you have to make sure they are dead because otherwise they grow in the frog's stomach and kill it. And, by the way, you should NOT put small pebbles in the bottom of the cage because it might accidentally eat one....I am actually starting to wonder how they survive in the wild...you know, without human intervention!

As I said before, I hate these things. I go to great lengths to avoid them in the evening. I NEVER would have dreamed that I'd have one living in MY house.. I guess it comes with the territory (I mean FOUR boys). Oh well, they can figure out how to care for it and feed it.....Maybe DH knew that if he "cared for" and "fed me" with his Garage Sale finds, that I would warm up to the idea.

So, with that thought in mind, I think I'm going to have some melted chocolate now and try to forget about it!!! ;-)

The Quiet Nights are Over

If you read my blog regularly, then you know that my three older DSs have been gone to a Youth Retreat this week in Daytona Beach. DH was gone one day and I was out three days. But when we were home, it was quiet. Tonight the three older boys returned. I am amazed at how the energy level changes when you throw just three more bodies into the mix. It may be the testosterone. It may be that they are all teens and preteens....but it's energy, nonetheless.

I like it though. In fact, I think it's rather dull without them around. We got an update on their week away.

DS 1 is now in his room recording music that he has "in his head". He really enjoyed the music at the youth week and is excited about writing his own music to share with youth groups.

DS 2 just finished watching the video of the World Cup Final Game. He came home and immediately asked, "Is there a way that I can earn $40/month?" I wondered why...and he quickly pulled a picture out of his suitcase of a young 6yo boy from a third world country. He wants to sponsor him until he is 18. Then, he wants to pay the $350/month to send him to college....He assured me that by this time, he would be out and making money on his own.

DS 3 immediately began looking up some of the great pictures they were shown this week of outer space. The speaker showed them some amazing pictures and connected it to the wonder of God. Actually, when I looked at some of them, I was again reminded that all of this (Earth and Space and all it's wonder) did NOT happen by accident...there is just no way.

DS 4 was glad to welcome them home. He is definitely my social child. He loves having brothers to talk with...even though he drives them crazy sometimes.

So everyone has settled into their own place in our home tonight and it is a peaceful thing. Even though the energy is up...and the noise level is too...I am calm. I love knowing that all is well in my "nest".

Until next time!

Answers to the Name that Tune Thursday Thirteen

I had fun doing this post...I think I may try it again in the future. The only one that no one guessed throughout the day was Buttercup...other than that, I think the entire list was guessed via several people. Thanks for playing!! :-) Susan

1. SWEET CAROLINE (NEIL DIAMOND) "Where it began, I can't begin to know when. But then I know it's growing strong. Was in the spring, then spring became the summer...."

2. SOME ENCHANTED EVENING (SOUTH PACIFIC) "...And somehow you know, you know even then, that somewhere you'll see him again and again."

3. SUMMERTIME (PORGY AND BESS...OR JANIS JOPLIN) "One of these mornin's, you's gonna rise up singing' then you'll spread yo' wings an' you'll take to the sky..."

4. OLD MAN RIVER (ROGERS AND HAMMERSTEIN) "He must know somepin', but he don't say nothin'...He just keeps rollin', he keeps on rollin' along...He don't plant taters, and he don't plant cotton...And them what plants 'em is soon forgotten"

5. AMERICAN PIE (DON MCLEAN) "A long long time ago...I can still remember...How that music used to make me smile..And I knew if I had my chance
That I could make those people dance..And maybe they'd be happy for a while"

6. COUNTRY BOY (JOHN DENVER) "Now the simple kind of life never did me no harm, raisin me a family and workin' on the farm..."

7. THAT'S AMORE (DEAN MARTIN) "When the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie...."

8. SEASONS OF LOVE (RENT) "How do you measure, measure a year? In daylights, in sunsets in midnights in cups of coffee..."

9. OH WHAT A BEAUTIFUL MORNIN' (OKLAHOMA) "All the cattle are standin' like statues. All the cattle are standin' like statues. They don't turn their head as they see my ride by..."

10.LIGHTS (JOURNEY) "Oh there's been mornings out on the road without you, without your charms...oh my my..."

11. FRIENDS IN LOW PLACES (GARTH BROOKS) "I guess I was wrong. I just don't belong. But then, I've been there before..."

12. BUILD ME UP, BUTTERCUP (THE FOUNDATIONS) "I'll be over at ten", you told me time and again. But you're late, I wait around and then I went to the door, I can't take any more. It's not you, you let me down again."

13.EDELWIESS (SOUND OF MUSIC) "Small and white, clean and bright, you look happy to meet me."

Thursday Thirteen # 24

Thirteen Song Lines SUSAN Heard In Orlando This Week...Can You Name That Tune? I went to Susie's Blog yesterday and found a great meme on there using her iPod. Since I don't have an iPod, but I loved the idea about the meme, I decided to steal (ahem) BORROW the idea and modify it here. Can you name these tunes? 1. "Where it began, I can't begin to know when. But then I know it's growing strong. Was in the spring, then spring became the summer...." 2. "...And somehow you know, you know even then, that somewhere you'll see him again and again." 3. "One of these mornin's, you's gonna rise up singing' then you'll spread yo' wings an' you'll take to the sky..." 4. "He must know somepin', but he don't say nothin'...He just keeps rollin', he keeps on rollin' along...He don't plant taters, and he don't plant cotton...And them what plants 'em is soon forgotten" 5. "A long long time ago...I can still remember...How that music used to make me smile..And I knew if I had my chance That I could make those people dance..And maybe they'd be happy for a while" 6. "Now the simple kind of life never did me no harm, raisin me a family and workin' on the farm..." 7. "When the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie...." 8. "How do you measure, measure a year? In daylights, in sunsets in midnights in cups of coffee..." 9. "All the cattle are standin' like statues. All the cattle are standin' like statues. They don't turn their head as they see my ride by..." 10. "Oh there's been mornings out on the road without you, without your charms...oh my my..." 11. "I guess I was wrong. I just don't belong. But then, I've been there before..." 12. ""I'll be over at ten", you told me time and again. But you're late, I wait around and then I went to the door, I can't take any more. It's not you, you let me down again." 13. "Small and white, clean and bright, you look happy to meet me." HINTS: Here are two of the places I visited: Jelly Rolls and Bergamo's.

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A Not So Wordless Wednesday....

OK, I was planning to share a little of this on my blog closer to my next birthday in August. But tonight HAS to be the night...

Some of you who know me in real life---and especially those of you who know my Father-in-law know about my "WONDERFUL" coupon! Others don't.

A little background:

About 6 years ago, I had a shift in job responsibilities at school that included test coordination and more work with student data. My FIL retired from our school district as the head of Research and Assessment. In addition to this job, he worked at the collegiate level teaching Research and Statistics.

This new job description was NO WHERE near my area of expertise! In fact, I pretty much used to run from numbers.

On my birthday that year, my sweet Mother-in-law gave me a card that included the coupon (shown above). The only thing that I didn't know until later was that my FIL did not know it until after it was sent.

Notice that the coupon has no expiration date. It also says "infinite". I may not be a numbers girl, but I KNOW the meaning of those two things.

Here we are six years later and I HAVE, in fact, used my coupon for many, many "consultations" in both work and home. Everytime my FIL asks for the "coupon back"...I tell him, "OK when Mom says." (She hasn't "said" yet--thank goodness.)

This coupon has "covered" many things over the years from babysitting, venting, handywork, data consulting, transportation for kids, among other things.

Tonight, we took the coupon to a whole new level. DS 4 found a tree frog the other day and decided that he needed to make it a "habitat". DH said he was totally serious about this frog. He took it over to Grandma and Grandpa's since he stayed there while DH and I were out of town this week.

Tonight I picked DS and the frog up to come home. Immediately upon entering our house, DS took the frog into the bathroom to replace the water. He lifted the basket off the "habitat" and the frog made a leap up the bathroom mirror. I heard DS scream and holler for help.

I need to interject here...I HATE FROGS!!! I am deathly afraid of them and will go to great lengths to go no where near one...especially this kind with the suction cup toes. As you can imagine, I was NO HELP at all although I did bring DS a broom and a big bowl to try and trap his little "friend". This effort, though, was to no avail.

Yes, I am a wimp. I know it. All the older boys are gone for the week. DH is down at church. I am thinking that sitting sentry in our bathroom tonight until his Dad gets home to catch it is probably not what DS 4 wants to do.

SO....I called in that coupon ONE MORE TIME!!! I called my FIL and admitted that I am, in fact, a wimp and told him the frog was loose in the house. He came right over (about a ten minute trip) and contained it for us. He told me what a "good frog" it is and how it just sits right on his arm. (OK, that almost made ME turn green!)

I know that I should have been able to contain this little "critter". I have critter issues and this man, who gives without ceasing, didn't mind giving one more time. I know that coupon or not, he would have done it. I am thankful for that.

But, it IS nice to know that the coupon is tucked away for "safe keeping" just in case. If I haven't stated it clearly before, I'll say it now: Thanks, Mom, for the coupon!!! And thanks to both of you for being you!!

OK, I might be a redneck, too!!

Last week or so, my brother Greg wondered aloud on his blog if he was a redneck.

Here I am staying at an upscale resort on the Disney property wondering the same thing. This conference is being paid for by the state. Since I am speaking, I get to stay at the convention hotel which is one of the nicest on the property. I have my own room on the 7th floor. It has a wet bar, the snacks (that are WAY over-priced) and all. Last night when I was in the dressing area, I noticed a silver canister on the floor under the counter with a plastic bag in it...I thought, "Oh,how nice, they have left a wine bucket in here in case you decide to buy the bottle of wine in the wet bar (again, way over-priced)." Not that I was going to buy a bottle of wine, but a lot of honeymoons take place here too. I thought, "It really is pretty---silver (plated) and all." It was a fleeting thought that soon passed.

This morning, as I stood in the dressing area preparing for the day, I needed to throw some trash away and looked for the trash can---which I thought should surely be in that area. Then, it dawned on me, my beautiful wine bucket was just a TRASH CAN!!!

BUT, if I were a redneck....I am certain we could throw some ice in there and chill down some wine (or would it be beer??)!! ;-)

My Weekend Window

It was kind of a quiet weekend here. I worked all day on Friday. It was nice to just come home and relax on Friday evening.

Saturday, I went to the nail salon (my indulgence). After that I went to the Scrapbook store to find stickers for my snorkeling pictures (another indulgence). I also returned the tent that I purchased last week. I thought we would need more sleeping space at the river and so I bought it with that in mind. We did not use it. So, back it went.

Yesterday was church. We heard part two of the Jonah story. Last week, dh talked about facing your fears. This week, he talked about what you do when you're in a big "fish" and you get spit up onto dry land. The idea was that when you ask God to help you out of the mess you're in...you're often still "messy"---like you would be if a fish spit you out on the shore. But, we can get "cleaned up" as we move in the right direction. It was a good thought.

Then, just before the torrential rain fell...I got my car washed. Yep, you read that right. The guys at the car wash (who were bored because NO ONE gets their car washed when it's gray outside) told me that the rain doesn't fall at the car wash. Anyway, they cleaned it up and out (which is what I needed most.

I came home to watch World Cup Soccer with my family. Cleaned the house and prepared to leave for a three day workshop in Orlando.

Today, I am leaving for that trip. It is a Literacy Coaching workshop. I present tomorrow. I am very excited to be going. DSs 1, 2, and 3 are off to Daytona for a week-long youth camp at the beach. They will get to hear Chris Tomlin (dove award winner) among others. DS 4 is going to work with dh today...that should be interesting. He will spend the night at Grandma and Grandpa's tonight and tomorrow as DH flies out to Texas tomorrow to discuss working with a district out there.

That's pretty much the comings and goings for us. It's summertime and the livin' is....well...it's not bad but it's also not so easy this week (I'm not seeing naps in my future this week, Mary)! But, then it wouldn't be my life if it weren't just a little busy!!! ;-)

Have a great week!

Face Your Fears

DS 4 is a "fretter". He frets over things long before they happen. I don't know where he gets it...maybe his Mother...but he does it nonetheless. I have tried to help him see that what we worry about usually doesn't happen. We went scalloping this week. Some combination of my family usually goes to join my extended family at "The River" to go on this adventure in July each year.

Last year, DS 4 went, but he decided that he did not want to go "out"...so he stayed at the house and fished off the dock. He was not a confident swimmer then and has only begun to develop into a more able swimmer recently. Still, he has been fretting over scalloping for this year since early Summer. We have been talking about this trip for quite some time.

So, as the week rolled around, the fretting escalated. He told me on the way up there, "Mom, I don't know if I am going to scallop or not. I may just fish." Knowing that sometimes you have to push them past their fretting, I told him, "No, this year, you are going to go scalloping. We have "noodles" to float on and there will be a lot of us out there. You'll be fine." The first day out, he got right in the water fins, mask and all. Once he discovered the undersea world, he really didn't want to come back into the boat. He had a ball swimming around the boat hunting for scallops, sponges, crabs, and starfish.

After about four hours of searching for scallops...only to find about 20 (see Greg's Blog about this)...we returned to shore. On the way back in, DS 4 was sitting in my lap with the wind blowing in our faces.

He was quiet as if he was trying to soak it all in. Then, suddenly, he turned to me and said, "You know Mom, you were right, I should have scalloped this year. It's kind of like Dad said yesterday."

Not really understanding what he was talking about, I asked, "What did Dad say yesterday?"

He replied, "You know, he said, 'you've got to face your fears.' And I have plenty of fears to face."

I was suddenly reminded that DH preached on the story of Jonah and the Whale during church the day before. He talked about Jonah being afraid to go to Ninevah and running from God. His point...you have to face your fears. You cannot run from God or your circumstances.

I called DH at home that night to tell him that at least "one little person was listening to his sermon yesteday."

I sat reflecting on this 7 year-old boy who has grasped such wisdom...He's right, you know, we DO have to face our fears!

We're BACK from our long weekend...

Thursday Thirteen #23

Thirteen things SUSAN remembers about July 4ths and Summer Vacations in the 70’s and 80’s:


1. July 4, 1974/5—We went to Riverhills Park for the city’s July 4th festivities. This used to include a parade followed by a day of entertainment and food and ending with fireworks. Because I cannot handle loud noises (including popping balloons) I would go across the street to my friend Judy’s house every hour on the hour to avoid hearing the giant cannon that they would fire.

2. Summer, 1976—I remember traveling to Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, Virginia and West Virginia for the Bicentennial year. We visited many historical places and learned a ton about the birth of the United States.

3. July 4, 1977—My friend, Susan W., was at our house. I bought earplugs for the first time and went to the fireworks in Riverhills park. In years past I simply plugged my ears with my fingers until they were sore. The earplugs worked OK, but I still ended up holding them in with my fingers. We went swimming at Marie H’s. after the fireworks. I remember the water being hot (almost like a bathtub) because the outdoor temperature was SO HOT!

4. Summer of 1977—I am pretty sure this was also the summer we went to Atlanta to see Stone Mountain. We camped in a pop-up camper on top of a hill. There was a storm that seemed as if it would throw us right down either side of that hill. The thunder was the loudest I EVER heard as it echoed off of Stone Mountain.

5. Summer of 1978—My Mom took us to Ohio for a visit. I remember missing my friends at home so much! It was those awkward teen years when you really would rather be anywhere but with your family. I had a Burt Reynolds tee shirt that I wore much of that summer. We stayed at my Uncle Ron’s house…and I soon got over missing my friends and enjoyed visiting family.

6. Summer of 1980—I turned 16 in August and had a 16th birthday party. We held it at a friend’s condo pool and clubhouse. Several people from school came. There was a DJ spinning---YES---45 records! (For those of you who are too young to remember those, it was a type of record NOT the number of records).

7. July 4th, 1981—I worked at Busch Gardens as a ride operator. It was this day that we went to the beach and I fell asleep out there. I was burned to a crisp! It was one of the most painful sunburns I ever had. I was also taking a summer class, Problems in American Democracy (which was really a class on Communism), at my high school.

8. July 1981—By the end of the July 4th week, we realized the reason I had fallen so soundly asleep on the beach is because I had mono. I had to go to my Grandparent’s house to rest because my Mom said the phone was ringing and I wasn’t able to sleep and get the rest I needed. I learned to cross-stitch that summer at Grandma’s as I sat and watch Lady Diana marry Prince Charles.

9. Summer, 1985—I drove with two friends straight through from Florida to Pennsylvania for a Christian festival called Creation ’85. It was several days of teaching and bands playing. We camped out in a tent. It was a great event that I truly enjoyed attending…although I can’t believe we drove like that up barren I-95 with NO CELL PHONES or real contact with home. I am sure I gave my Mother a few gray hair’s that summer!!

10. Summer, 1986—I went on my first cruise with Dad and Carolyn. We went to celebrate my college graduation. It was Premiere Cruise Lines (the Big Red Boat)—which does not exist anymore. The cruise went to Nassau, Bahamas and also to some out islands. It was great fun.

11. July 4, 1987—I had just moved to Lexington, Ky. to be closer to my fiancé (now husband). We went to watch the fireworks in downtown Lexington. He was sweet enough to park far enough away so I could sit in the car and watch them from there. I remember it was VERY HOT…but the fireflies were out and it was perfect in so many ways.

12. July 1988—Dh and I were still living in Ky. We had a newborn baby (only eight weeks old) and we decided to go to Mammoth Cave. I have pictures of DH carrying DS 1 through that cave. DS 1 was great inside the cave…but when we brought him out…he wailed the rest of the afternoon! I am sure it had something to do with the heat outside (over 100 degrees) and the cave temperature (a constant 54 degrees) playing with his body temperature. We were young, what can I say?

13. July 4, 1989—We watched the July 4th fireworks in my hometown from the parking lot of Zayer’s. I could sit in the car and enjoy while the rest of the family could watch them like “normal” people do. I was 7 months pregnant with DS 2…and while I don’t remember the particular heat of that day…I am certain it was blazing hot in that car!!!

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After sifting through pictures...

DS 2 and I just went through 700 pictures on a CD that the mission organization sends home with each team member and I dug up a few more pictures to share with you. I only saved 200 on my computer and plan to have those printed for their albums. They are going to make a more comprehensive newsletter to share their experiences with many of you very soon. In the meantime....here are a few more glimpses into their week...

DS 2 tells me that he and DS 1 are on chairs stacked about 30 high (in the picture below). I'm glad I know about this AFTER the fact!!


Here is DS 2 with their bus driver. He says the same person drove them around all week long:


Here is DS 1 in a game of Frisbee Football. They painted the inside of this church and played with the youth and kids in there as well.


Here is DS 1 giving out trinkets and toys at a block party in San Pedro.


Son 2 is showing off his soccer tricks in this photo.


There are many many pictures that shows the exciting work they accomplished while in Belize. I am proud that they want to serve. I hope that this experience will help them see the opportunities around us each and every day to be the hands and feet of Jesus whether we're overseas or in our own backyards.

They're BACK!!

DSs 1 and 2 are back from their mission trip. They arrived home last night around midnight. Both said they had a great time. They have pictures, which I hope to be posting very soon. It was great to listen to them share about the people they met and the things they did while on this mission. They both loved the service as well as the sightseeing. I think they got a good balance of both.

I'll update soon.

Snakes, Worms, and Raccoons....OH MY!!

Hopefully you read my snake story from yesterday. Today the "fun" continued around here. DS was SO excited because he caught an earthworm tonight. Now, I know that is "no big deal" for many of you....and especially those of you who have a lot of nature around your homes. But, for him, it was a big deal. He named it. He put dirt and leaves in the bowl for it. And then told dh that he decided to "let the little critter go".

As he was releasing his new found friend, we heard him announce from our garage (with the door up)...."Dad, we have a raccoon!" You see DSs 3 and 4 just finished a pizza and the remains along with the box were already in our garbage. Mr. Raccoon thought he'd help himself to what was left. Dh went to the garage and did some "splainin'" to Mr. Raccoon...and Mr. Raccoon backed slowly up from the garbage cans and left the garage. DS 3 and dh shut the door and came inside talking about how "cute" they are...and how it's too bad you can't domesticate them. Ok but....they're WILD animals!!

I have had my fill for a few days. Heck, I think I'm pretty good for say....a LIFETIME!!

On a more serious note...DSs 1 and 2 were to return from their mission trip last night, but their plane got cancelled...so the airlines put them up in a hotel in Cancun with free food. The boys said that the hotel had five huge pools...so a nice luxurious way to end a week of service. They are finally on the ground and heading back to our side of the state. I look for them to call anytime now and say they are heading north from the church to our house. I can't wait to see them....and hear all about their week's adventures.

My Thursday Thirteen is Below...

SNEAKY SNAKE...

Now, most people probably don't remember this song...but my brothers will. They have both blogged about summer memories recently and Tom T. Hall was always on our summer vacations with us (it seems). Tonight I am thinking about the words "Sneaky Snake" for a totally DIFFERENT reason!

Tonight I had to go to church to meet our new Children's Church coordinator. I went into the bathroom before I left and GUESS what was there to greet me????? Yep, a "SNEAKY SNAKE"!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It was small...and looked like one of the boys' toys at first. I actually thought maybe they layed it there to scare their mother. Then, I realized that it was REAL and nearly DIED!

Thank goodness, dh was home. I don't know what I would have done if he was not...probably called my FIL and exercised my coupon (an upcoming blog)...

Anyway, I left dh and DSs 3 and 4 to rid my bathroom of the critter. Then I left them with STRICT orders to check EVERY nook and cranny in our house to make sure there were no more. Dh thinks it got in through a drain, so I also had DS 3 boil hot water and pour it down every drain in our house.

I have no idea how it got in my house. We DO live in Florida, so there ARE snakes...but I have lived here almost 40 years and I can tell you I have NEVER had one in my house!!!!! And believe me, the house I grew up in was much more "open" than this house is...we had no air conditioning in my childhood home, so the windows were always open.

Anyway, I am dreading turning lights off tonight. I am probably going to have visions of SNEAKY SNAKES in my bed all night.

Hmmm...I wonder if dh checked under our sheets???? I gotta go strip my bed!!

Thursday Thirteen--Happy Birthday Dear Blog!!

Thirteen Things about WHY SUSAN BLOGS 1. My SIL, Heather started blogging a little over a year ago and I started reading hers. I thought it would be a great way to share with family, release some of my own thoughts and feelings in writing, and simply "grow through journaling". 2. I have met some incredible people along the way! Three of my favorite blogging "buddies" that I have never met IRL but check in on EVERY DAY are: Mary, KT, and Amy. 3. Other people in my family are now blogging and I LOVE IT. My Brother, Dan,. My Brother and SIL, Greg and Christie. And my cousin, Lynn. {Secretly, I am wishing MORE would start as it is a great way to keep updated. 4. There are non-blogging family members who read my blog. My FIL and MIL, my Dad, my Grandma, my Stepmother, and my Aunt have all read at one point or another. 5. I love working out my thoughts on paper. 6. I like learning the "little bit" of html code that I have learned. 7. I LOVE my new look (which is now my "old" look since it's been here a while) designed by another blogger, Susie who is an absolute delight to work with!! 8. I love putting pictures up...which I didn't learn until mid-year. 9. I love reading blogrolls and finding new places to visit. 10. I am encouraging teachers to use kid-friendly blogs in their classrooms. I think it would be a GREAT venue for writing. 11. The number of bloggers in the world is staggering...and will be multiplying at an incredible rate this year. 12. My boys read my blog and say, "Mom, we learn more about you on your blog!" It's a good way for them to "learn about me" I suppose. 13. Heck...it's just plain FUN!!!! Happy Birthday, Dear Blog!!!

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!


The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

View More Thursday Thirteen Participants

Wordless Wednesday--Who SAYS They Have to Grow Up??

What's for Dinner???

Do you ever get in the "what's for dinner" rut? It's like you make the same things all the time. Now I know some of you that read my blog are "into" the whole cooking and meal-planning thing. I'd be lying if I didn't say that makes me a little jealous...Sometimes the best way to decide what's for dinner is to ask other people what their favorite dinners are....I thought I'd just throw the question out there with NO parameters, but then changed my mind. Here is the question:

What do you like to make for dinner?

It must be somewhat "easy"....somewhat "quick" (don't want to take all day)...mostly healthy...and most important....TASTY!!

Can't wait for YOU to answer...I'm going to try one of the menus that I get either today or tomorrow.

Zing Repellant PLEASE!

As I get older, and I continue to watch people at my workplace, at my church, and in general life settings, some common human behaviors continue to pop out at me. Some I see played out in situation after situation. And as I watch, I try to be more self-reflective so that I don't copy negative behaviors. I also seek out the positive that I want to emulate.

In the past few weeks, I have become more aware of a phenomenon that I don't want to replicate. You see, I have discovered that there are people who I like to call "zingers". Now you may be wondering just WHAT a zinger is. Here is "my" definition. This is someone who, in the midst of casual civil conversation, throws a sudden and unsuspected "dig" to someone else via his or her words. It's usually a quick "seemingly innocent" comment that is meant to elevate the zinger to a level of "more than", "better than" or "smarter than" the person being "zinged". And most of the time, zingers seem to smile when they are zinging someone. It has elements of passive-agressiveness at its core. And there is NO QUESTION in my mind that the "zinger" often suffers from poor or low self-esteem.

As I have watched this phenomenon throughout the years, I realize that there are times in my life when I, too, have been a zinger. In fact, at one time, I was quite adept at this skill. I find that I am prone to "zing" when I am uncomfortable...and when I feel a bit inferior. I know that there are times when I have been "cutting" at someone else's expense and usually with that tell-tale smile that tries to bury the bitter in the sweet. And often, when I have sent a zinger someone else's way, I didn't really INTEND for it to be hurtful to the receiver. I only said it to put myself in a "more safe" or elevated position. It's something I have worked to rid myself of as I have aged...and I will continue to battle it as it creeps up from time to time. I am often amazed at how words will pass my lips and be on the ear of the receiver before my brain registers exactly what I have said!!

But, lately, rather than being the "giver", I have been the "recipient" of a few "zings". My initial response is almost as if I have been bitten by a pesky mosquito. I want to swat it away and brush it off as "nothing really".. And often, I do this with a nod or a smile. Just like the mosquito that bites, though, I find it often bothers me a bit later. It can even fester and start to hurt. And I don't think the zinger really intended to "hurt" me or anyone else that got "zinged". In general, I think it is, as I said earlier...an attempt to elevate the "zinger" to a different level. Or perhaps it is intended to hide the flaws of an imperfect person.

As I think about how to deal with zingers (those who zing), I really want to exercise grace and patience. I know none of us is perfect. We all have flaws. I want to let the hurtful words roll off my being as a mosquito would respond to repellant. I want to "take the high road". It's just hard sometimes. I wrestle with zingers, zinging and my response to both "being" one and "receiving" ones.

I know that I am a work in progress and I am thankful that God is gracious with me. I also hope that the next time I am tempted to throw a zing, that I recognize it for what it is and stop short of "biting someone else". I also pray that the next time I am the recipient of a zing that I WILL be able to recognize it for what it is and not let it "itch" me so bad.

So, maybe my prayer should be....

As I travel through my life, Lord, a little "zing repellant" all around, please!?!

My Weekend Window

It's been a while since I completed a Weekend Window. This weekend was busy, busy, busy...so I thought I'd share.

On Friday morning, I went with my SIL, nieces, nephews, and DSs 3 and 4 to the waterpark, lunch, and bowling. It was fun watching the kids play. They enjoyed visiting with the cousins that they do not get to see all that often.

Friday night, DS 4 went over to spend the night at Grandma and Grandpa's with the cousins. He had a great time. I am sure that Grandma and Grandpa enjoyed all the pitter patter of little (and big) feet around their house for a while!!

I went to meet a friend with whom I have been working on Friday evening. We have had this evening planned for quite some time now. We were able to talk work and just "chill" a bit. I love just visiting with her. It was an enjoyable and relaxing evening. As I told my SIL, it's a great way to decompress a bit.

Saturday, was pretty much a quiet day. Dh took DS 4 to sign up for soccer. I did get out to the local Scrapbooking store---like I NEEDED to!?!?! It was nice to go see all the new stuff in the world of scrapbooking, though.

Yesterday, we went to church. Of course, many many people who have been following the trip progress of our youth missions (see post below) wanted to know just what I thought of DS 1's hair. I told them the story that I printed in my blog. It was good to hear what progress other parents had heard about from their own kids.

Right after church, the boys (DSs 3 and 4) and I jumped in the car and drove straight to Tampa in the rain. It really rained all day here....but that's another story. Anyway, we went to Tampa because my friend, Jayne, who is a poet and an author was doing a book tallk and signing her new book at a local book store.

I picked up my Mom (and left the boys at my Dad's to swim) and we headed to the bookstore in a torrential downpour. By the time we arrived there, it had let up. We had a wonderful visit. The bookstore is in an old home in Hyde Park. It really has character and makes you want to "sit a spell" and just browse all the treasures that are there. We got to hear Jayne read her poems from her new book and talk about their inspiration. She is an inspiration to me for sure.

After that, we all went back over to my Dad's to visit with he and my Stepmom, my Mom, my brother, his wife, and THEIR 3 children. It was a great relaxing time. The kids swam in between rainshowers. I enjoyed visiting with my nieces who have put an order in to come back down to my house and go to the waterpark. We planned our upcoming trip to go scalloping at the river (over July 4th). And, of course, we ATE!!

Last night, I took DS 4 over to his Sarasota Grandparent's home to spend the night. I am working today, so he will spend the day with them. We had a very nice visit, too! I love being able to just sit and talk with them.

I'd say this weekend was family-filled! It was busy, but it was good! Have a GREAT week!!

Belize Mission Trip Update

There is a website that is posting updates for the Youth Mission Trip. I thought I would share some of the photos and updates here. The following picture is of the entire group on day 1. They look ready to go, don't they?


The following picture also appears to be day one. DS 2 is in the middle with the water bottle. DS 1 is standing behind him in the hat.


This picture shows DS 2 on a roof. On this day, the group repaired the roof and painted the house of a pastor in Belize. The pastor's wife has been diagnosed with cancer and there is nothing else doctors in Belize can do. They are seeking help in the states. The website reports that this day was a true blessing to the pastor and his wife.



OK, I'll be quite honest, when I woke up and clicked on the pics this morning and saw this one, I thought: "Oh my goodness, WHAT has DS 1 done to HIS HAIR now!?!?!" So I consoled myself by saying, "well, at least they LOOK sweaty!" DS 2 looks real proud here, doesn't he? Before anyone thinks anything different...hair is hair in my book...it is a battle that I simply am not willing to fight...I want my boys to be able to be comfortable with who they are and if it means braiding your hair, well then so be it.....after I reminded myself that this IS what I believe...I clicked the next photo....


And there I saw DS 1 sharing a Bible with a boy from Belize (below). They visited the juvenile detention center and the orphanage. The guys played soccer and baseball, while the girls fellowshipped, sung and painted each others nails. The team really ministered to the Belizean youth through a Bible study at the end. The day ended with laughter and tears. The team played and sung with the children of King's Kids Children's Home.

And below is DS 2 on that same day:


This is DS 2's girlfriend, C. You can also see DS 1 (thanks to those braids!) behind her coloring with a little boy.


And finally, here are the guys after they played and ministered to the boys down there. I love this picture. It really captures the spirit of what they are doing. Please continue to keep them and their work there in your prayers.

New Bloggers in the Neighborhood

Yesterday, I linked to my brother Greg's blog.. My cousin Lynn left a comment to tell me that my link wasn't working. So, the link above is fixed...my oversight...and a code issue. My brother, Dan has also REjoined the blogging world.

If you get a chance, stop by and say "hello"...

It's great to have so many family members joining us here in the blogging world...it's a great way to keep in touch on the comings and goings of family.

I'm off to visit my SIL Heather and her beautiful children. I'll blog more later.

Thursday Thirteen

Thirteen Things on Susan's Mind 1…. My boys (DSs 1 and 2) that are on their mission trip in Belize with 11 other youth and adults from our church. 2. Finishing my book and getting the last bit of information to the publisher so it can get printed. 3. A contract for a new book that I am writing with two friends where we will split a whopping 8% commission!! 4. Visiting with my SIL and her children tomorrow. Our time has been weird between me being out of town, the older boys leaving town and her being in town...and other comings and goings. But she graciously is making another trip down here so we can get the kids together tomorrow. 5. Going to small group tonight. It has been three weeks since we met and I miss these ladies terribly. They keep me solid!! 6. School...I met with our leadership team today to talk about next year. There really is not a summer anymore. It seems like we are always thinking about the next new thing and how to improve. 7. Scrapbooking that is coming up...HOORAY!! 8. Getting my car in for repair...just update stuff mainly. It turned 106,000 on our trip. 9. Preparing a workshop that I am doing later in the summer. 10. Sending out invoices for consulting I have already done. This is definitely a weakness of mine. I forget to do it! 11. Getting up to see my extended family...who I have not seen since Memorial Day. 12. Finding time to just spend alone with my dh... 13. Thinking of thirteen things for this list since I couldn't be "outdone" by my brother Greg who just joined the blogging world this week and completed BOTH a Wordless Wednesday AND A Thursday Thirteen!!!!

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!


The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

View More Thursday Thirteen Participants

Wordless Wednesday: And They Call it Puppy Love....DS 4 in Amish Country

It's Tuesday...Do I Know Where My Kids Are?

I know that is a strange title...and the answer is "yes, sort of."

My younger two are here in our house still sleeping. Gotta love some peace and quiet in the morning!

The older two, however, left yesterday morning for a mission trip to Belize. They traveled to Cancun in the morning via airplane and then took a 10 hour bus ride to Belize. We know there are photos somewhere of them entering the bus...but we haven't seen them posted on the Internet yet. When they are, perhaps I can share them here.

I am excited for them. They will be working with some teens and children while they are there. They will be re-roofing some buildings. They will be sharing in and/or leading several church services. It sounds like a GREAT mix of serving.

Another neat thing they will do is visit the palace of the president of Belize. He came to their youth group (long story) a few months ago and spoke. He knew they would be going to his country and doing this mission work. So, in addition to all their sweat and hard work, they will have some royal treatment for at least a moment of their trip.

I know they were both VERY excited when they left. And I was excited for them.

I can't tell you how good it feels to know that we have two teens who WANT to stay involved and do this type of work. Something is just "so right" about that. It makes all the days when you wonder if you have "raised them right" sort of melt away.

If you think about it, whisper a prayer for their time there. So, while I don't know EXACTLY where they are...I know WHO they're with, WHAT they're doing, and WHY they are doing it. Perhaps those are more important questions anyway!

Did I Ever Tell You...

About our trip to Amish Country in Ohio?

On our recent trip to Ohio, I took the boys up to Amish Country. We went to a cheese making factory, an amish farm, an amish restaurant and to the "world's largest cuckoo clock". As we drove on the backroads through Holmes County, we saw many many amish buggies and families working in their fields. The boys loved seeing this different "simple" lifestyle.

As we drove on some very windy backroads from one point of interest to another, we continued to see farm after farm with children playing outside. It was serene and inviting. I was mesmerized by the whole thing.

The funniest one, though, was when we rounded a corner and there was a buggy parked in the driveway near the street. We saw a little Amish girl climbing up into it with an older sibling's help. And suddenly as we looked at this sweet picture...two or three kids peeked their heads out of the buggy sides and began soaking my car with water cannons!!!

It was totally unexpected and a funny reminder that kids are kids no matter what their upbringing!

I hope to post actual pictures from our vacation at some point in time.

Father's Day is Here....

I told you on Mother's Day that these holidays are not my forte'. I don't know why. I love them...I just forget to send out cards and buy gifts. It DOES NOT, however, mean that I don't think about those who are special to me. I know that I need to do better. I want to honor those Dad's in my life who are special to me today:

To My Dad:
I know that memories are so important as we go into our own families and pass along the stories of our past. I am thankful that you have given me plenty to pass along. I remember being "buddies", singing me to sleep as a child, family vacations, the support that you have given each time I start on a new endeavor, stories you have passed along, and so many other things for which I am greatful. Thank you for being there and supporting me as I have grown. I love you.

To My Husband:
I am so greatful that God gave me a man that is such a wonderful father and husband. I am proud to be raising our kids with you. I thank you for the many ways that you set the example of being a wonderful father and husband for them. I know this is something they will carry into their own families...and I am glad. I love you!!

To My Father-in-law:
It's hard to believe that so many years have passed since that first night that I slept on your floor!! I am thankful that you are always ready and willing to give a helping hand. I have enjoyed the memories we have made together. I am also thankful that you treat me as if I have always been a part of your family. That is special and doesn't go unnoticed.

To My Brother--G:
As I have watched you start your own family over these past few years, I want you to know that I think you are an amazing Dad! Your kids are lucky to have you...thank you for all you do for them and for us!!



Happy Father's Day to each of you....YOU ARE LOVED!!!

Thursday Thirteen

Thirteen Things SUSAN has done since her last blog...




1. Drove to Lebanon Indiana

2. Set up for a presentation

3. Went to Office Depot (on someone else's money) and spent $838 in 30 minutes for the presentation!!

4. Delivered two inservice workshops for teachers.

5. Sat through two excellent inservice sessions....and ONE HORRIBLE one!!!!!!!!

6. Went bowling and reminded myself that I simply am NOT a bowler!!

7. Went to an urgent care clinic due to a rash on my leg...only to find out that they want me to use over the counter medicine.

8. Took four boys (ages 11 - 14) to the mall in Indianapolis alone!! (I shopped while they played at the arcade...pretty good deal.)

9. Visited with my dear friend Suzi.

10. Learned about small town politics in a visit with some educators...it's really not much different than anytime you get a group of people together. There's always someone who is in it for themselves and spreads ugliness in an organization.

11. Finished reading the book, "Tales of Desperaux" by Kate DiCamillo.

12. Learned what the word "perfidy" means...it's woven throughout her book...you'll have to look it up like I did.

13. Once again packed up my stuff and will drive (as soon as I finish this) back to Ohio to reclaim DS 4 and return Lynn's DS 1 to her....although he and DS 3 have been wonderful and really would like to forgo the switch!! ;-)





Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!


The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

View More Thursday Thirteen Participants

Burned popcorn!?!?!

Tonight I switched kids with my cousin Lynn, the "saint". She took my DS 4 and I took her DS that is the same age as my DS 3. We are going over to Indy to do some training and DS 4 is going to stay with her for a few days. I say she's now a saint...because I think she got the shorter end of the stick.

Anyway, I am sitting here in our hotel room with the two preteen boys (who really giggle a lot) and preparing for my workshops...and answering email...when the fire alarm went off! It was LOUD!! The boys and I picked up my purse and the laptop and proceeded down the three flights of stairs to the ground floor. Other people just stood in their doorways wondering if it was "for real". Maybe it's the teacher in me, but I figure I'd rather find out if a fire alarm is for real once I know I am at the ground floor and out of the building safely.

Right as we reached the outside...the alarm went off and we went back in the door. A family was making their way down the stairs just behind us and the mother (who looked a bit frazzled) said, "It was us." The front desk guy showed up about this time and the complete confession was made. She said, "Sir, it was us. We burned a bag of popcorn." In the meantime we went back to our room.

Almost immediately as we reached the top of the stairs, we heard the firetruck. The boys went back downstairs.

Now, I can smell the remnants of burned popcorn....UGH! As I once again relax in my room....I must admit one thought crossed my mind...THANK GOD IT WASN'T MY KIDS WHO BURNED IT!!!!

Country Roads Take Me Home

And our trip in the midwest continues....

This week we have been staying in the town where I was born. It's a small town (compared to my own) and has many of the "flavors" that I spoke of in my Thursday Thirteen yesterday. I love driving around and looking at all the pretty homes and farms. I usually stay on the roads with which I am familiar, though.

For some reason, this trip, I have spent more time driving unfamiliar country roads than I normally do when we visit. DS 4 keeps saying, "This looks familiar!" It's only because there are cornfields, wheatfields, silos, and barns everywhere you look when you are driving in this area of the country. I am usually pretty good with directions...but I have no bearings in this area. One field leads into another and the sun really is no help either unless it's dawn or dusk. At least at home, I can say, "I know the beach is *that way*" and then I can tell where north, south, east, and west are. (Hey, maybe there is an advantage to living on the coast!)

As I drive the country roads, I am constantly reminded just how important it is to pay attention to the signs. Sometimes the roads are well-marked and other times the signs sort of creep up on you. Last Wednesday, I found myself going eight miles in the wrong direction because I followed my own instinct vs. thinking out what was logical and "right" and following the directions I had been given.

It's really no different than our lives, is it? We have to stay aware of the signs that God gives us and trust that He will lead us in the right direction...even when it doesn't feel right. And we have to rest assured that despite twists and turns and potholes and such that the "country roads WILL lead us home."

Thirteen ReasonsSUSAN could live outside of Florida...and ONE reason she can't... As some of you may know, I have been traveling this week in the midwest. I don't necessarily want to move to the midwest, BUT I have always dreamed of living somewhere other than Florida that is more "country-like". Here's why.... 1. Seasons...we really don't get change of seasons. I LOVE the different colors that each season brings in places north of my state. My favorite season is FALL!!!!!!! 2. Soft grass...I LOVE walking barefoot in the soft grass. We simply don't have that in Florida. The softest grass we have is "golf course grass" and it's more like astroturf in many ways. I love the tickle-your-toes and smells-so-fresh grass that is found in other places. 3. The house styles...I love the wrap-around porches. The siding that makes them look so quaint and inviting. And I enjoy the rocking chairs and porch swings that invite family and friends to come and "sit a spell". 4. The landscape...Where I live, it's flat and "palmetto-y". I love hills, mountains, and open spaces. 5. The stars...when you are away from the city, the display of stars is fantastic and refreshing. 6. The "safety" factor...now I know that "bad things" happen everywhere. But I know that small town's often have less crime than other places. When dh and I lived in KY, the worst thing that happened in the small town near our home was the tool shed had been robbed and some tools had been taken. That was the worst thing in TWO years!! 7. People wave at you whether they know you or not. Where I live, there is a lot of hustle bustle. And people don't generally wave at all....it's like everyone walks around with blinders on. 8. The slower pace....enough said. 9. The familial feel...and the smell...there's a smell that is in the grass, the flowers, and landscape that simply isn't found in Florida. 10. The quiet...peaceful feeling that often accompanies smaller towns 11. The history...often smaller towns in other states have preserved their past in its structures, town squares, etc. 12. More house for your money....enough said! And ONE big reason I can't move to a house in the mountains....or any other country place outside of Florida. 13. Family....Our immediate families live in Florida. I can't imagine living away from any of them. It's important. I learned this lesson when dh and I lived away in our early marriage. The experiences and memories you can make and pass on to your kids is priceless... Who knows? Maybe I'll be able to become a seasonal resident somday!!

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!


The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

View More Thursday Thirteen Participants

Tales from the Road....

Today we went through Lexington, Kentucky. Dh and I lived there for a while when we were first married. DS 1 was born there. We visited our old "hometown" and the seminary town, Wilmore. They both have grown some...but they retain their small town flavor.

On our way out of Wilmore (where the seminary is) we noticed a sign on the side of the road by a horse farm. It said, "Birthplace of Barbaro". Barbaro was the Kentucky Derby winner this year who was injured a couple of weeks ago. Attached to the sign was a "Get Well Soon" balloon. Horses are BIG BUISNESS in Kentucky. DH and I were in some stables that were more luxurious than some of the homes I have been in....they are simply amazing.

Now we are in Ohio and will start seeing family tomorrow. I think DS 3 is a bit tired of being couped up in the car with DS 4 for two days. He was a bit testy tonight. I am now typing this at the pool while DS 4 swims off some of his energy and we give his older brother a quiet break in the hotel room to watch a little TV.

The boys both noted when we arrived in my birthplace in Ohio..."this is so familiar. It's almost like coming home." Yeah, except if this were home, we wouldn't live in the Fairfield Inn!!! At any rate, I am glad that they like coming to visit and enjoy this place.

Hopefully we'll have some fun while we are here and they will add to their memory bank!!

Monday Memory

I have been traveling with DSs 3 and 4 today. We are on our way to Ohio. Tonight we stopped in Knoxville, TN. I have told you before that I am a music fanatic. I love most of it and really have to carefully plan music to bring on the trip. Believe it or not, some of the music that I like to bring is nostalgic in that it is the very same "stuff" that I had to travel with as a child...before I truly appreciated it.

Today, while traveling up I-75, I was going back in my mind. I was wondering exactly how many times I have made that journey. I think I can safely say dozens. I have done it with my Mom and brother, Dad and family, DH and I alone, DH and kids, and Some configuration of my own children and me. I have done it at least four times in the last 12 months.

And while I know flying is faster....I LOVE certain "touchpoints" on this journey. The music is one. Some of the "music from my past" that I have listened to today included:

* Jim Croce (I just realized today that the song "You Don't Mess Around with Jim" says, "You don't spit into the wind..." and not "You don't speed into the wind.") Not bad for listening to it for 30+ years!!

* The Statler Brothers (I know some of you are blown away by this). I love the songs "Countin Flowers on the Wall" and "Susan When She Tried". Today I realized just how "obsolete" some of their songs are as they recount "heroes" from the first half of last century...and talk about fads and trends that I have only "heard" about and for which I have no schema of my own.

* George Jones and Tammy Wynette...I just got this one. It's one of those that we "had" to listen to when we traveled. I thought I'd enjoy memory lane a bit more...but found myself forwarding this one quite a bit.

* Peter Paul and Mary...now we didn't listen to this in the car (that I am aware of) when I was a child....but my kids have grown up on this CD and I love listening to it and singing along in the car...I even shared with DS 3 today that Puff the Magic Dragon used to make me very sad because at the end he "slips into his cave"....

* Journey....another one that would have NEVER played on our trips...but I LOVE it anyway. My favorite?? "Lights" and "Open Arms."

* Cher...her greatest hits. We didn't really listen to this on our roadtrips...but I do remember getting to our destinations and singing her songs with my cousins.

* Songs from the Loft (Amy Grant)...this is one that DH and I listened to in the car and enjoyed with the boys when they were younger. It's always a joy to bring it back out.

I am sure there are some I forgot...afterall we drove more than 600 miles today.

On the menu tomorrow...

* Ray Stevens...gotta love "The Streak" and "Mississippi Squirrel Revival".

* Donny Osmond...again my addition to the family trip music...he sings broadway and we love it.

* Love Songs and Inspiration....one of my favorites as it makes me sappy and think about DH.

Well...that gives you a bit of an uppdate on the Here and Now and the There and Then....

It Happens Every Year at this Time...

It's June. In our denomination, that means it's time for our annual conference. This is a time when all the clergy and lay leaders from churches all over the state come together. It usually lasts three to four days. They talk about issues and trends. They celebrate new ordinations and other things. It seems in the past three to five years, however, there is a new "tradition" at annual conference...and it's NOT FUN.

Every year they begin with a clergy only session. This is the time when they bring up more clergy-related things and I think make decisions on leaves and such. The session goes on for about half the morning. It seems like every year for the past several, I have received a call from dh with "the news." The news, each year, more and more frequently is someone else who has resigned "under charges." And for the past several years, we have personally known the clergy person (or persons) that has been forced to resign.

I don't get it. Yes, they are vulnerable. Yes, they are fallible. But, it seems to be running rampant in our denomination...for that matter, I think it's running rampant in Christianity period. The charges can be anything from misappropriation of funds all the way to adultery. I am afraid that the latter seems to be prevalent these days. It breaks my heart. Unfortunately, I also think "these names represent those who have been caught." It seems the lines of morality are blurred in our society even for those who should "know better."

Certainly, my heart breaks for fallen clergy....but it also aches for the spouse who doesn't understand...the congregation who may be led astray...and anyone else who loves to look at Christians and cry out "hypocrisy!" And I don't want to sound like ALL clergy are out there playing with money that isn't theirs OR worse a spouse that isn't theirs...I just know that the stumbling blocks are there and they are real. I fear in our denomination that there is no real restoration process. It seems resigned clergy just fall into the abyss somewhere and it's sad.

Here I sit, reading the appointments for our conference...it's sort of my way of catching up on the whereabouts of those with whom we have served...and realizing the growing number of names that we won't see there anymore...the growing number of God's children who may be out there wandering in their own wilderness.

And I am reminded that each of us sometimes spends time in a wilderness of sorts. We find ourselves wandering and perhaps running away from God. Yet, I know that even during those times of misjudgement, poor choices, and out and out sin...that God beckons us back to Him for restoration and reconciliation. I think He wants us to reach out to the fallen and nurse them back to health. I pray that somehow these men and women realize that and that they receive a new measure of AMAZING GRACE that is available to all of us regardless of past performance. And may we all be on the lookout for the opportunity to reach out to the lost and hurting.

The Girls are Back in Town....and so are the ELEPHANTS!?!

Two of my nieces came to spend the weekend with us. They are ages 4 and 2 and SO FULL OF LIFE!!! Yesterday we went to the waterpark. This is a great place that is at our local YMCA. It is a playground in water. We had a great time. No one got burned as we were greased up in Sunscreen.

On the way home, we passed a cow pasture and there was a HUGE bull in the corner. Youngest niece squealed and pointed, "Look! It's an ELEPHANT!"

They are so much fun. They love hanging out with the boys.

We are getting ready to go out again today. Who knows what we might see out there....

Lions, and Tigers and Bears, OH MY!!

My Absenteeism....and Confession

Sorry for being gone the last few days. I worked Tuesday and Wednesday and really wasn't in the mood to blog either of those two days. By way of confession, though, I must admit that I have spent quite a bit of time on You Tube as well. (Warning: not everything on there is "clean" so you have to monitor your searches.)

As I told you, my favorite part of the American Idol finale last week was when Clay came out and surprised that guest. I found the video of it on another blog and put it on my own blog. I have been a fan of his since he was on season 2. I think he has a phenomenal voice. He's not the only one that I have enjoyed from previous seasons. I loved George Huff, Carrie Underwood, Ruben Studdard, and more. I started investigating You Tube and found out that you can find video clips from concerts and interviews from just about any "star" you'd like to see. I was mesmerized. I rarely go to concerts...but found that I could almost attend an entire concert of any one of these people via these video vignettes. AMAZING!!

DS 1 reminded me that artists don't like those videos going out on the net because they are not getting compensated. I understand copyright. I understand royalties (a bit from book sales). I also think, however, that this is a venue that "could" help an artist. In some ways, it keeps them before their fans. As a result of my time there, I want to go out and buy Carrie's album, George Huff's album, Clay's album (when it's available) and the AI 5 album. I even checked out tickets to the American Idol Summer Tour---they are in Tampa the night before my birthday!

I don't know why I was drawn to watch so many videos. I think it's because I absolutely LOVE music! I always have. It is in my blood. My cousin, Lynn blogged about her old 45's yesterday. Many of them I had and/or loved as well. Imagine what a different world it is for the kids of today to be able to "see" their favorite artists sing at the click of a mouse! We were just excited to stare at "Tiger Beat" pinups. It is definitely a new world...and I've been trolling around it for a few days.

So, there you have it, my confession. I did keep checking up on my blog---almost as if it were going to generate its own post!! I just haven't made the time to post (until now). I must say, I miss being on here. I miss checking my blogroll. I missed Thursday Thirteen!! But, now I am back...here in my own reality. Another thing sruck me this morning...multi-tasking is part of our daily lives. I didn't have to trade blogging for listening to (or even viewing) music. I can listen to the music while I post here. Shoot, I can even shrink the two windows and post and watch at the same time!!

For now, I am off to the music store...some new music would be good for my upcoming trip to Ohio. Until next time...

Memorial Day

Until the last year or so, I never knew that people wore poppies on Memorial Day and I never heard (or read) the poem, In Flander's Fields. I understand that many people had to memorize the poem during their school years a few decades ago. It is a beautiful poem that sums up the day. I have decided to share it here:

In Flanders Fields
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.
- John McCrae

I looked up the meaning of this poem and found two great sites to visit. This one explains Memorial Day.

This one explains the story behind the poem.

This week, our local radio station granted wish #8 of a 20 wish program they are sponsoring. It was timely as the wish was for a 20 year old widow who's husband was killed in Iraq. She is pregnant (due in July) with their first child. He was killed the day before his 24th birthday. Here is the story of his funeral. Finally, here are the pictures of her receiving the wish made by her Mother and an Aunt. If you go to this page, click "Wish #8" to view the pictures. The community is pouring out love to her by giving her a baby shower. They furnished a nursery already and have donated literally thousands of items for this young woman. It was a sobering reminder that this war is real and can be very hurtful.

No matter what you are doing today, may we all stop to remember the sacrifices that have been made in the past. And may we also remember those that are being made even as we celebrate with picnics and parties over here.

Happy Memorial Day!!

My Favorite Part of the AI Finale....

I just found this online and thought I'd share. I thought this was GREAT. There is no way that contestant knew that Clay was going to come "help him" get through that song!! His reaction is priceless...as was, for that matter, Clay's new look.

Summertime and the livin' is.....

BUSY!

Some people think that summertime is marked by lazy, hazy, days. Porgy and Bess thought that the livin' was "easy" in Summer. Yes, it slows down some here. But it is also BUSY!

This Summer I will....
Visit my family in Ohio and a dear friend in Indiana
Conduct five full day workshops for teachers (although not consecutive days)
Get to see my Arizona SIL and her children at the end of June
Take the kids scalloping
Work at my school to prepare for next year
Attend a leadership academy training at the end of June
Hand over the Children's Church reigns to a new leader (Praise God!)
Watch my nieces and nephew for a day or two
Workout at the YMCA
Take the kids to the waterpark at the YMCA
Write 45 teacher's guides for this publishing season
Finish the publishing process on a new "teacher book"
Write a new professional book for 3rd - 5th grade educators
Go on a scrapbooking overnight with a friend

Yep, we're going to be BUSY!!! But, we're going to have FUN too!!

Summer????? Bring it on!! :-)

A Reminder....

I didn't need anything to remind me just how special it is being a Mom this week. I have had plenty to keep this at the forefront of my thoughts. But I got a reminder anyway....

Last night, I watched a dear friend in pain over some choices her child is making. I sat with her and tried to help her process what was happening. I tried to think about what I would do in her situation...I can honestly say I don't know the answer. She is a single mother doing the best she can to raise this child in a loving Christian home. And her child doesn't see it. I don't think she needed "answers" from me...more a listening ear.

Of course our children all go through times when they think we are the WORST parents in the world. I try to tell my boys that contrary to what they (or their friends) might believe, parents do NOT sit around and ask themselves: "So, how can I make this one miserable this week?" We are all doing the best we can. Sometimes we do well and sometimes we don't.

I guess the reminder I got through my friend's pain is just how blessed I am that my children are making good choices right now. It also helped me whisper a prayer of thanks for my dh who helps me do the parenting in our family. I know being single can make it much more difficult. It's tiring and can make you grow weary.

My friend is kind of at the opposite end of the parenting continuum from where I am this week....I've been on the "UPside" of the experience and she is not. And truly if she didn't love her child it wouldn't hurt her so much and be so painful.

I was reminded how deep the love the parents that I know have for their children. And I was reminded that sometimes parents just need to wrap themselves in the arms of the ultimate parent, God, and let Him hold us as we walk the journey of parenting our children.

Happy Birthday DS 1!!

Thirteen Things about Susan's DS 1 on his 18th Birthday

1. I went into labor right after a visit to the OB's office and hearing the news that it would probably be another week or so...

2. I think it was the Mushroom Burger at Ruby Tuesday's that "did it"! We called EVERYONE from our hospital bed just 20 minutes after he was born...it was a VERY special day!!

3. He has had stitches at least once, has been bruised and bumped, but has never broken anything.

4. I was his Kindergarten Teacher...which I loved.

5. He graduated from High School last week after spending a semester in college classes and finishing a nursing program.

6. He was part of an awesome (and loud) concert last night for the Middle School Youth Group.

7. He surprised me with an incredible bass solo on the last song...and I was equally surprised to see him fling the guitar around his neck a few times and dance up a storm on stage.

8. We call him his Dad's "Younger Twin"...although he has also developed much of his own unique personality as well.

9. He is a gifted speaker.

10. He loves music of all kinds. I love that he is open to listen to anything and accepts it for the art that it is.

11. He is going on his first mission trip this summer to Belize.

12. He is fun-loving and funny at times. I appreciate his humor and enjoy just spending time talking to him and listening to him and his dreams.

13. He is VERY special to his family...and especially to his Mother. I love to see the twinkle in his eye...his general willingness to try new things...and his drive! I know he is making a difference in the world...and I am extremely PROUD of him!!

Happy Birthday, Son! I love you!!

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