My boys are "into" Iron Chef contests. They have these contests regularly with the neighbors in my house. They pick food and then make it together. I think it's because they like our extensive spice cabinet. Tonight, they are having a contest. I think there are two pans involved as there are two "chefs" cooking. Whatever they are cooking is so spicy that my eyes are watering and I am not even in the kitchen!
With tears in my eyes, I tell myself: "At least they are in OUR kitchen...they are not out creating havoc anywhere (except maybe on my counters)....and they are having fun...." What more could I ask?
Current report from the kitchen: "That's GOOD!"
I'll just keep sitting here with watery eyes and remember that one day I'll look back and reminisce about the stuff they used to do in our kitchen! Then my eyes will water for a different reason!
Sunday, January 01, 2006
Saturday, December 31, 2005
Happy New Year Everyone!
Here I sit on New Year's Eve updating my blog....We are celebrating quietly this year. Dh is going out in a little bit to get us Outback Carry Out. We'll have steak, watch football games, and just enjoy a quiet evening here at home. Actually, I am planning to catch up on some much needed "crop time".
Two of the boys are going out. DS 1 and his girlfriend are going to a concert nearby and will be back just after midnight. DS 2 is going to his girlfriend's house for a party and will join us at church tomorrow. DS 3 is playing a computer game online. DS 4 is just playing...
It's quiet...and I'm glad. I think I like going quietly into a new year.
I wish you all a wonderful New Year's Eve and Peaceful 2006!
Two of the boys are going out. DS 1 and his girlfriend are going to a concert nearby and will be back just after midnight. DS 2 is going to his girlfriend's house for a party and will join us at church tomorrow. DS 3 is playing a computer game online. DS 4 is just playing...
It's quiet...and I'm glad. I think I like going quietly into a new year.
I wish you all a wonderful New Year's Eve and Peaceful 2006!
Friday, December 30, 2005
You Can Do This Too!
OK here is another nature photo that I took earlier this year. This lizard was shedding its skin on a bush outside my Dad's house. I couldn't resist the urge to photograph it.
I am reminded when I see it, though, that we can do that too. We can take off the old and put on the new. It's scriptural. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!"
This is especially appropriate as we head into the New Year. It's that time of year when we make empty promises in the form of resolutions. It's that time of year when we learn that most of us don't have what it takes to keep a resolution.
And yet, God (who always keeps His promises) made a promise to us long before the ball was falling in Times Square. It's time to shed the old and put on the new.
May 2006 bring each of us HOPE and NEWNESS of life!
Thursday, December 29, 2005
Isn't this cool?
The boys took this photo when we were in Ohio this fall. I just thought it was so neat.
Just Wait...
I was struck emotionally at the tragic loss of Tony Dungy's son, James. In one article recounting the funeral message Tony shared some of his daughter's comments about their loss: "My daughter Tiara said it best the other day. She said: `I just wish he could have made it until he was 20. Because when you're 17 or 18, sometimes the things you guys say to us don't always make sense. ... When I got to 20, they started making sense again."' This is such a wise statement.
I was reminded just how many times I tell my teenagers, "Believe it or not, your parents do NOT sit around at night and think 'how can we make their lives miserable.'" Parents, in general, try and do the best they can with the information they have. We truly DO make decisions and suggestions based on trying to guide our children on the best path. We also try and help them avoid the same mistakes that we made. It's easy to see on this side of it.
Coach Dungy noted: "As he got a little older, like all teenagers, he was searching for who that person was inside of him. Who he was going to be. ... And like most of us, I think he went through a time as a teenager that he wasn't sure his parents always had the best advice. He wasn't sure that we always had his best interest at heart," the coach said.
My dh often says that while he was in college his parents went to "smart school".
I remember being 17 and 18 and being in the conflict of having a foot in my childhood and trying to open the door to my adult life. That is where my two oldest are right now---at the threshold of their adult lives. I continue to pray that we will be able to help them enter it with grace and dignity. So far, it's going pretty well.
Rest assured boys, we DO have your best interest at heart.
I was reminded just how many times I tell my teenagers, "Believe it or not, your parents do NOT sit around at night and think 'how can we make their lives miserable.'" Parents, in general, try and do the best they can with the information they have. We truly DO make decisions and suggestions based on trying to guide our children on the best path. We also try and help them avoid the same mistakes that we made. It's easy to see on this side of it.
Coach Dungy noted: "As he got a little older, like all teenagers, he was searching for who that person was inside of him. Who he was going to be. ... And like most of us, I think he went through a time as a teenager that he wasn't sure his parents always had the best advice. He wasn't sure that we always had his best interest at heart," the coach said.
My dh often says that while he was in college his parents went to "smart school".
I remember being 17 and 18 and being in the conflict of having a foot in my childhood and trying to open the door to my adult life. That is where my two oldest are right now---at the threshold of their adult lives. I continue to pray that we will be able to help them enter it with grace and dignity. So far, it's going pretty well.
Rest assured boys, we DO have your best interest at heart.
Wednesday, December 28, 2005
Welcome Nephew!
My third nephew was born yesterday! He joins his two sisters C-almost 4, and K-2. They LOVED their new little brother. He is absolutely adorable...but then I think that about all of our nieces and nephews.
As I was holding him last night, my Dad, my Brother and I were reflecting just how much he looks like my Grandfather. He definitely has features of that side of the family. It was kind of amazing.
I thought though...we DO pass so much along in our families. We pass genes down from generation to generation. We also pass down our personalities, our stories, and pieces of our lives. It IS our job to leave a legacy in the lives of those who come behind us.
I pray that God would continue to help me stop and think about the young people in my life. May He help me pass along those things that I want to continue. And may He also help me stop the stuff that needs to stop and not be perpetuated.
May each little child remind us that we are sowing into their lives. And they will reap what we sow. Let's sow well!
Welcome, little Z! You are a blessing!!
As I was holding him last night, my Dad, my Brother and I were reflecting just how much he looks like my Grandfather. He definitely has features of that side of the family. It was kind of amazing.
I thought though...we DO pass so much along in our families. We pass genes down from generation to generation. We also pass down our personalities, our stories, and pieces of our lives. It IS our job to leave a legacy in the lives of those who come behind us.
I pray that God would continue to help me stop and think about the young people in my life. May He help me pass along those things that I want to continue. And may He also help me stop the stuff that needs to stop and not be perpetuated.
May each little child remind us that we are sowing into their lives. And they will reap what we sow. Let's sow well!
Welcome, little Z! You are a blessing!!
Monday, December 26, 2005
And Speaking of Time....
Ds 4 met a new friend last week. We'll call him "K". K is quite outspoken and articulate. He doesn't hesitate to tell you exactly what he wants and when he wants it...but in a very polite way. They are the same age. K just moved from Chicago and France with his family. The boys hit it off right away.
Today, K and DS 4 are on a marathon play day (after all they have been two whole days without seeing each other due to Christmas activities). They have been back and forth between our two houses all day long. They have played hard and had fun. About 4:15 they came back home and DS 4 got in trouble for something and had to do some work and a timeout before proceeding his play. K cried. In fact, I think he was more heartbroken that ds 4! K did not want DS 4 to have to stay inside. He wanted him to be able to continue whatever it was they were doing. DH talked to K and explained that DS 4 had to do this and that he would be able to come back out at 5:00.
About 4:25 I was surprised to see K just walk in the front door just like he lived here! He said, "Is it 5:00 yet?" Then he told me he would "just wait outside". Knowing how six year olds work, I know that 30 minutes can seem like a lifetime. I wondered for a minute how he would pass the time. I showed him on his new watch how long it was going to be and sent him back outside.
At 4:45 he knocked on my door because there was a "five" in the time. I explained once more that it had to be "5-0-0". And he returned to our sidewalk to wait. At 5:00 sharp...he knocked on the door and said, "I kept the numbers on the sidewalk come see!" He did not let up until dh went out there to see what he had done.
In HUGE chalk numbers starting at the bottom of our sidewalk and leading right up to our front door, we saw:
4:51
4:52
4:53
4:54
4:55
4:56
4:57
4:58
4:59
You have to admire that determination and stamina, don't you? K and DS are outside playing once again and I think all is right in the world...at least in their world.
Today, K and DS 4 are on a marathon play day (after all they have been two whole days without seeing each other due to Christmas activities). They have been back and forth between our two houses all day long. They have played hard and had fun. About 4:15 they came back home and DS 4 got in trouble for something and had to do some work and a timeout before proceeding his play. K cried. In fact, I think he was more heartbroken that ds 4! K did not want DS 4 to have to stay inside. He wanted him to be able to continue whatever it was they were doing. DH talked to K and explained that DS 4 had to do this and that he would be able to come back out at 5:00.
About 4:25 I was surprised to see K just walk in the front door just like he lived here! He said, "Is it 5:00 yet?" Then he told me he would "just wait outside". Knowing how six year olds work, I know that 30 minutes can seem like a lifetime. I wondered for a minute how he would pass the time. I showed him on his new watch how long it was going to be and sent him back outside.
At 4:45 he knocked on my door because there was a "five" in the time. I explained once more that it had to be "5-0-0". And he returned to our sidewalk to wait. At 5:00 sharp...he knocked on the door and said, "I kept the numbers on the sidewalk come see!" He did not let up until dh went out there to see what he had done.
In HUGE chalk numbers starting at the bottom of our sidewalk and leading right up to our front door, we saw:
4:51
4:52
4:53
4:54
4:55
4:56
4:57
4:58
4:59
You have to admire that determination and stamina, don't you? K and DS are outside playing once again and I think all is right in the world...at least in their world.
Saturday, December 24, 2005
Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?
As we are in the final frenzied hours before Christmas Morning, I had to make a run to Walmart. Upon my arrival home, the boys and my dh were having a conversation. They wanted to "do Christmas" this afternoon. Well almost everyone. DS 3 was adament that you cannot "do Christmas" unless it is the 25th.
His argument, "Do you dress up for Halloween on the 30th?" To which DS 2 replied, "You might." He was obviously passionate about this plan. DSs 1 and 2 did NOT agree and the discussion escalated a bit.
Of course, I know that you can "do Christmas" anytime you want and it would be the joy, the giving, the being together that makes it Christmas...not the fact that it is the 25th of December. But, you know what? I agreed with son 3, I didn't want to do it today either. I love waking up on Christmas morning with the anticipation. I think somehow on the 25th, I am still a kid. I love it. I love all of it.
The result of our discussion? DS 3 won. We will open gifts early tomorrow morning before we go to Church. We will give dh the remainder of this presents tomorrow morning...we went ahead and did some this afternoon.
Whenever you celebrate...I hope that this Christmas is as magical for you as it might be for DS 3 and for me.
His argument, "Do you dress up for Halloween on the 30th?" To which DS 2 replied, "You might." He was obviously passionate about this plan. DSs 1 and 2 did NOT agree and the discussion escalated a bit.
Of course, I know that you can "do Christmas" anytime you want and it would be the joy, the giving, the being together that makes it Christmas...not the fact that it is the 25th of December. But, you know what? I agreed with son 3, I didn't want to do it today either. I love waking up on Christmas morning with the anticipation. I think somehow on the 25th, I am still a kid. I love it. I love all of it.
The result of our discussion? DS 3 won. We will open gifts early tomorrow morning before we go to Church. We will give dh the remainder of this presents tomorrow morning...we went ahead and did some this afternoon.
Whenever you celebrate...I hope that this Christmas is as magical for you as it might be for DS 3 and for me.
Friday, December 23, 2005
Holiday Peace?
Today I went to the mall again. I went to pick up the last couple of things that I needed to finish gifts so that I could come home, sit in the pile, and wrap!
It was relatively calm there. There were the usual last minute shoppers trying to find the perfect gift. I noticed Dads with their sons out shopping for Mom's and other girls in their lives. Perhaps the funniest was the man in Bath and Body Works who noted that you could buy a gift and you didn't even have to wrap it because they have such pretty gift sets! The teenage boys behind him were wide-eyed as they learned how to "shop like a man" (sorry for any of you who are great shoppers).
Most disconcerting though were the number of people I watched bickering. Blood pressure obviously up...I saw grown Daughters yelling at Mothers. Grown sisters at odds over what gift to buy for Mom. Sons and Mothers who differed as to who had spent more money on a gift so far. I heard one Mother explode at her teenager and say, "If you don't get me out of here righ this instance, I am going to lose it!" I thought: "Toooooo Late!!!"
It was sad. These same people are going to sit together most likely on Sunday and share gifts. They are going to try and be cheerful about a holiday that obviously was causing them much stress.
Yet, didn't the angels proclaim "Peace on Earth, Goodwill to Men" at the birth of Christ. Peace. Goodwill to all. I pray that it happens in each of our lives in a powerful way that sends the message that we serve the "Prince of PEACE"! Maybe, just maybe, it will make the difference in the eyes of someone who is watching.
Peace.
It was relatively calm there. There were the usual last minute shoppers trying to find the perfect gift. I noticed Dads with their sons out shopping for Mom's and other girls in their lives. Perhaps the funniest was the man in Bath and Body Works who noted that you could buy a gift and you didn't even have to wrap it because they have such pretty gift sets! The teenage boys behind him were wide-eyed as they learned how to "shop like a man" (sorry for any of you who are great shoppers).
Most disconcerting though were the number of people I watched bickering. Blood pressure obviously up...I saw grown Daughters yelling at Mothers. Grown sisters at odds over what gift to buy for Mom. Sons and Mothers who differed as to who had spent more money on a gift so far. I heard one Mother explode at her teenager and say, "If you don't get me out of here righ this instance, I am going to lose it!" I thought: "Toooooo Late!!!"
It was sad. These same people are going to sit together most likely on Sunday and share gifts. They are going to try and be cheerful about a holiday that obviously was causing them much stress.
Yet, didn't the angels proclaim "Peace on Earth, Goodwill to Men" at the birth of Christ. Peace. Goodwill to all. I pray that it happens in each of our lives in a powerful way that sends the message that we serve the "Prince of PEACE"! Maybe, just maybe, it will make the difference in the eyes of someone who is watching.
Peace.
Monday, December 19, 2005
Power Shopping!
Every year we do it. We brave the mall during this, the last week before Christmas. The boys really seem to enjoy it. Usually, the group includes my extended family and us. Occasionally, though, it has just been the boys and me. Today was the latter.
The boys and I left for the mall around 1:00. We divide and conquer. I am pretty much done with shopping...so today was my day to help them.
Round 1: Ds's 1 and 2 go off alone to do whatever teenage guys do when they shop. Ds 3 decided HE (at 11) is quite OK going out on his own. (So I gave him my cell phone with strict orders to call dss 1 and 2 if he needed anything.) DS 4 and I went shopping...for the brothers and his Dad. I am not sure how I drew the short straw in this round, but I did. (I say that with love, really I do.) It's just that ds 4 wants to stop and look at all the other 6 yr. old distractions that are in the mall. He actually tried to convince me that he needed to just take the money that he had budgeted for today and put it in his bank...then everything would be OK. One hour later, round 1 ended.
Round 2: DS 2 takes DSs 3 and 4 to shop for Mom and Dad while DS 1 and I go and find a gift for his girlfriend. This is no picnic either! He is conflicted because she has put parameters on the gift. She wants "no jewelry"..."no cheesy stuffed animal" and yet wants him to find something meaningful. DS 1 tells me, "Her favorite color is yellow..." NOW THERE'S a lot to shop on! During this round, I realize just how FEW YELLOW meaningful gifts are in the mall! We found something though and Round 2 ended.
Round 3: DS 1 and I get caught in the food court getting a bite to eat by all other DSs. They join us and DS 1 and 3 go off together. DS 4 now needs to shop for me and so DS 2 helps. I WIN this round as I get a few minutes of quiet time to browse a few stores in the mall. DSs 1 and 3 are done in record time...but I still win because the oldest drives and they call me and tell me they are heading home. During my quiet browsing...another call comes in. It's DS 2 who calls and says, "Mom, can you talk to DB 4 and tell him that you DON'T want a football for Christmas!" So, I am in the clothing store talking loud because of a bad signal saying, "NO son, I DON'T want a Buccaneer football for Christmas!" It took a bit of convincing...but I think it worked. I did notice a few snickers from the people around me, though.
Round 4: DSs 2 and 4 and I are done and we make our way to the mall exit. On the way, DS 4 announces, "Mom, DB2 wouldn't let me get you a Gator football blanket." No offense to you Gator fans, but I don't even LIKE the Gators. DS 4 proceeds to tell me that he tried to tell his brother, "it doesn't matter the team...because Mom just likes football." That is true...I DO like football....
As we leave the mall, I whisper a prayer of thanks. Thanks for four wonderful sons who can even spend time in a mall without fighting. Thanks that they are helping steer each other in the right direction. Thanks that ds 4 knows his mother well enough to know that she likes football (I'll report on what I ended up with after the big reveal)! And thanks that THIS powershopping trip came to a successful end!
Happy Shopping Everyone!!
The boys and I left for the mall around 1:00. We divide and conquer. I am pretty much done with shopping...so today was my day to help them.
Round 1: Ds's 1 and 2 go off alone to do whatever teenage guys do when they shop. Ds 3 decided HE (at 11) is quite OK going out on his own. (So I gave him my cell phone with strict orders to call dss 1 and 2 if he needed anything.) DS 4 and I went shopping...for the brothers and his Dad. I am not sure how I drew the short straw in this round, but I did. (I say that with love, really I do.) It's just that ds 4 wants to stop and look at all the other 6 yr. old distractions that are in the mall. He actually tried to convince me that he needed to just take the money that he had budgeted for today and put it in his bank...then everything would be OK. One hour later, round 1 ended.
Round 2: DS 2 takes DSs 3 and 4 to shop for Mom and Dad while DS 1 and I go and find a gift for his girlfriend. This is no picnic either! He is conflicted because she has put parameters on the gift. She wants "no jewelry"..."no cheesy stuffed animal" and yet wants him to find something meaningful. DS 1 tells me, "Her favorite color is yellow..." NOW THERE'S a lot to shop on! During this round, I realize just how FEW YELLOW meaningful gifts are in the mall! We found something though and Round 2 ended.
Round 3: DS 1 and I get caught in the food court getting a bite to eat by all other DSs. They join us and DS 1 and 3 go off together. DS 4 now needs to shop for me and so DS 2 helps. I WIN this round as I get a few minutes of quiet time to browse a few stores in the mall. DSs 1 and 3 are done in record time...but I still win because the oldest drives and they call me and tell me they are heading home. During my quiet browsing...another call comes in. It's DS 2 who calls and says, "Mom, can you talk to DB 4 and tell him that you DON'T want a football for Christmas!" So, I am in the clothing store talking loud because of a bad signal saying, "NO son, I DON'T want a Buccaneer football for Christmas!" It took a bit of convincing...but I think it worked. I did notice a few snickers from the people around me, though.
Round 4: DSs 2 and 4 and I are done and we make our way to the mall exit. On the way, DS 4 announces, "Mom, DB2 wouldn't let me get you a Gator football blanket." No offense to you Gator fans, but I don't even LIKE the Gators. DS 4 proceeds to tell me that he tried to tell his brother, "it doesn't matter the team...because Mom just likes football." That is true...I DO like football....
As we leave the mall, I whisper a prayer of thanks. Thanks for four wonderful sons who can even spend time in a mall without fighting. Thanks that they are helping steer each other in the right direction. Thanks that ds 4 knows his mother well enough to know that she likes football (I'll report on what I ended up with after the big reveal)! And thanks that THIS powershopping trip came to a successful end!
Happy Shopping Everyone!!
Saturday, December 17, 2005
Watch, Weep, and Wish
I'm weepy lately. I don't know why. It could be strictly that I'm a female in my forties. On the other hand, it could be holiday stress.
I've decided that it a good portion of my weepiness has to do with all that I have been watching lately. I'm watching my boys become men (at least the oldest two). I am watching them trying to make their own way in their own worlds. DSs 1 and 2 both have girlfriends that they are pretty serious about. I adore both girls. They didn't pick girls that are totally wrapped up in their teenage worlds and whose lives are filled with drama. No, they picked girls that have their heads on their shoulders and are excited about their futures. They picked girls who are down to earth and unafraid to try new things. I am proud of both of them.
Of course, with their focus on school, developing their relationships and extracurricular stuff, we get squeezed to the bottom sometimes. That's just kind of how it works I think. My priorities can't always be their priorities. I think I'm OK with that.
As I watched them today, I wept. I wasn't ready for them to change so quickly. I wept because there are things to do and they are busy. I wept because I am learning that I will not always be in control of my world. I wept because I can.
I also wish. I wish that I could have more time. I wish that they would each always know how much they are loved. I wish that they will continue to refine their characters into Godly young men.
I know that they are growing. I know that life will go on for all of us. And I know that God will hold them in His hand as they experience this phase of their lives. I also know that He will hold me in His hand as I watch, as I weep, and as I wish.
I've decided that it a good portion of my weepiness has to do with all that I have been watching lately. I'm watching my boys become men (at least the oldest two). I am watching them trying to make their own way in their own worlds. DSs 1 and 2 both have girlfriends that they are pretty serious about. I adore both girls. They didn't pick girls that are totally wrapped up in their teenage worlds and whose lives are filled with drama. No, they picked girls that have their heads on their shoulders and are excited about their futures. They picked girls who are down to earth and unafraid to try new things. I am proud of both of them.
Of course, with their focus on school, developing their relationships and extracurricular stuff, we get squeezed to the bottom sometimes. That's just kind of how it works I think. My priorities can't always be their priorities. I think I'm OK with that.
As I watched them today, I wept. I wasn't ready for them to change so quickly. I wept because there are things to do and they are busy. I wept because I am learning that I will not always be in control of my world. I wept because I can.
I also wish. I wish that I could have more time. I wish that they would each always know how much they are loved. I wish that they will continue to refine their characters into Godly young men.
I know that they are growing. I know that life will go on for all of us. And I know that God will hold them in His hand as they experience this phase of their lives. I also know that He will hold me in His hand as I watch, as I weep, and as I wish.
Monday, November 28, 2005
A "Simple" Prayer Request
I am guilty. I have been known to make the following statement about someone I considered "very spiritual": "Well we KNOW his/her prayers hit heaven." Now I know that all of our prayers do "hit heaven"...I think we fall into the trap of judging someone's spiritual life and deciding that they must have a direct link to God. I know I am not alone in the trap. God DOES hear our prayers. I believe it. Yet, at times I still find myself questioning...but then something happens to remind me of the truth:
This week, dh said to me, "Did you know that ds 4 puts a prayer request card in the plate at church every week?" I do watch him write on the card each week. He has been doing this since he could hold the pen. First he would scribble the lines, now he fills it out. One Sunday, he even wrote his brother a note that said, "Dear Brother 2, You owe me 1,0000,00000,0000 dollars." But, not wanting to admit that I have never seen him slip his card into the plate...I just said, "Oh?" Dh continued: "Do you know what he's prayed for over the past three or so weeks?" Again, I shrug. Dh says: "World Peace". World Peace? You could have knocked me over with a feather!
DS 4 who is a tornado in motion most of the time! DS 4 who has such a zest for life that it makes the rest of us dizzy! DS 4 who can get under the skin of his older brothers (and sometimes his Mother) quicker than a splinter!
Then I re-think his request and I re-think him: DS 4 who is extremely sensitive and completely aware of the world around him. DS 4 who has such a love for people and animals of all kinds. DS 4 who has never met a stranger. DS 4 who has brought us joy beyond belief. DS 4 who has faith that is immeasurable. (FYI: He believed that HE really would find Boardwalk in the McDonald's Monopoly game and win the million dollars! When the game ended, he said, "There's always next time.")
Jesus said that we should have the faith of a little child. I know I am not supposed to say it, but somehow I think that THIS little boy's prayers DO "hit heaven". I am sure that Jesus just smiles at his simple yet powerful request.
World Peace? I hope so son, I hope so.
This week, dh said to me, "Did you know that ds 4 puts a prayer request card in the plate at church every week?" I do watch him write on the card each week. He has been doing this since he could hold the pen. First he would scribble the lines, now he fills it out. One Sunday, he even wrote his brother a note that said, "Dear Brother 2, You owe me 1,0000,00000,0000 dollars." But, not wanting to admit that I have never seen him slip his card into the plate...I just said, "Oh?" Dh continued: "Do you know what he's prayed for over the past three or so weeks?" Again, I shrug. Dh says: "World Peace". World Peace? You could have knocked me over with a feather!
DS 4 who is a tornado in motion most of the time! DS 4 who has such a zest for life that it makes the rest of us dizzy! DS 4 who can get under the skin of his older brothers (and sometimes his Mother) quicker than a splinter!
Then I re-think his request and I re-think him: DS 4 who is extremely sensitive and completely aware of the world around him. DS 4 who has such a love for people and animals of all kinds. DS 4 who has never met a stranger. DS 4 who has brought us joy beyond belief. DS 4 who has faith that is immeasurable. (FYI: He believed that HE really would find Boardwalk in the McDonald's Monopoly game and win the million dollars! When the game ended, he said, "There's always next time.")
Jesus said that we should have the faith of a little child. I know I am not supposed to say it, but somehow I think that THIS little boy's prayers DO "hit heaven". I am sure that Jesus just smiles at his simple yet powerful request.
World Peace? I hope so son, I hope so.
Sunday, November 20, 2005
Seen any red cars lately?
Dh had another great sermon today as he reminded us the importance of being thankful. He asked an interesting question: How many of you saw a red car on the way to church today? Of course a few hands went up.
Then he said, "I want everyone to look for a red car on the way home." He continued: "Now that I asked that, how many of you think you'll see a red car on the way home?" Almost all the hands went up.
He noted "Everyone will notice one because you'll be looking for it." Then he drove his point home: We have to look for the blessings in our lives. We sometimes take things for granted and miss them. It's up to us to recognize them and then be truly thankful for them.
So: Have YOU seen any red cars lately?
Then he said, "I want everyone to look for a red car on the way home." He continued: "Now that I asked that, how many of you think you'll see a red car on the way home?" Almost all the hands went up.
He noted "Everyone will notice one because you'll be looking for it." Then he drove his point home: We have to look for the blessings in our lives. We sometimes take things for granted and miss them. It's up to us to recognize them and then be truly thankful for them.
So: Have YOU seen any red cars lately?
Saturday, November 19, 2005
More Lessons from Son 4
There is a new song out on Christian radio that says: "The one thing that I don't question is you. You really love me like you say you do." It's a beautiful thought that I think most of us have a hard time grasping as adults.
Son 4 loves this song. When it comes on the radio he sings it with such conviction and belief. He truly has that faith of a child and it's so precious to watch and hear. It's obvious that He trusts that God does love Him and he should never question that love.
Now when I hear the song I ask myself, "what would it take to really say that statement like I mean it all the time...AND to live life in the same way?" What a different world this would be if Christians could just start with the belief that no matter what they are loved by God AND that we don't question Him.
I'm off to listen to more radio...and maybe learn more lessons.
Son 4 loves this song. When it comes on the radio he sings it with such conviction and belief. He truly has that faith of a child and it's so precious to watch and hear. It's obvious that He trusts that God does love Him and he should never question that love.
Now when I hear the song I ask myself, "what would it take to really say that statement like I mean it all the time...AND to live life in the same way?" What a different world this would be if Christians could just start with the belief that no matter what they are loved by God AND that we don't question Him.
I'm off to listen to more radio...and maybe learn more lessons.
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
My Crazy Life
Some days I wonder if I am coming or going! With six schedules to coordinate, it keeps me (and my family) absolutely hopping.
I was thinking the other day about a "simpler life" and really wondering what I would "give up" if I could. Here's our list of things that cost time:
1. Soccer games for ds 4
2. Youth group for dss 1, 2, 3
3. Church activities for all of us
4. Soccer practice and games for ds 2
5. Dh's work
6. My work
There isn't one thing on this list that I would give up. Watching my kids play sports is a joy and I KNOW builds confidence and character. Knowing that my boys are so involved in the Youth Group both as participants in high school youth and leaders for middle school youth (sons 1 and 2) makes me SO proud. Son 3 is really coming along well as he learns to balance school and social activities. I love my job and I am confident that dh also loves his work. I can honestly say that I don't know what to "give up". I don't know how to simplify.
Really when I think about it...life was like that for my family the minute I hit high school. More things tug at their social lives which cause the rest of us to be impacted. Being involved in my church and school though helped define who I am today. I am confident that my boys' activities will do the same.
I just pray that on those days when I feel like I want to scream or have the urge to sing Ricky Martin's "La Vida Loco"...that I can gain the perspective I need to realize that life is sometimes busy and it's OK. I also hope that I recognize when I am given the opportunity to slow down...and that I will have the wisdom to take it as the gift that it truly is.
In the meantime, I am off to soccer practice to pick up son 4!
I was thinking the other day about a "simpler life" and really wondering what I would "give up" if I could. Here's our list of things that cost time:
1. Soccer games for ds 4
2. Youth group for dss 1, 2, 3
3. Church activities for all of us
4. Soccer practice and games for ds 2
5. Dh's work
6. My work
There isn't one thing on this list that I would give up. Watching my kids play sports is a joy and I KNOW builds confidence and character. Knowing that my boys are so involved in the Youth Group both as participants in high school youth and leaders for middle school youth (sons 1 and 2) makes me SO proud. Son 3 is really coming along well as he learns to balance school and social activities. I love my job and I am confident that dh also loves his work. I can honestly say that I don't know what to "give up". I don't know how to simplify.
Really when I think about it...life was like that for my family the minute I hit high school. More things tug at their social lives which cause the rest of us to be impacted. Being involved in my church and school though helped define who I am today. I am confident that my boys' activities will do the same.
I just pray that on those days when I feel like I want to scream or have the urge to sing Ricky Martin's "La Vida Loco"...that I can gain the perspective I need to realize that life is sometimes busy and it's OK. I also hope that I recognize when I am given the opportunity to slow down...and that I will have the wisdom to take it as the gift that it truly is.
In the meantime, I am off to soccer practice to pick up son 4!
Tuesday, November 15, 2005
Food for Thought
I have spent the last few days wondering "where I am going" and "what I want to do with my life"....then I found this quote. Now I will spend some time pondering its depth:
"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, “Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?” Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There's nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we're liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others."
Marianne Williamson
"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, “Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?” Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There's nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we're liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others."
Marianne Williamson
Sunday, November 13, 2005
Leaving On a Jet Plane
Remember the old song?
So kiss me and smile for me
Tell me that you'll wait for me...
Hold me like you'll never let me go....
I'm leaving on a jet plane
don't know when I'll be back again...
Dh is off again. This time he is going to California for three days. So, yes, I know when he'll be back again...but I hate to see him go. Now, I must admit that it IS getting easier (thank goodness)! But it's still no picnic.
You see ever since we have been married...it seems that our parenting, running the household, and other "stuff" has been a two-way street of give and take. OK, he may do more at times than I do...in fact, my Mom and Stepmother say I am downright spoiled! And they are right.
I am blessed. It just seems lately as he has traveled that God has shown me how He has passed that blessing along to our sons. They pull a little more weight while Dad's away. The older ones help out with the younger ones. They help me juggle schedules...transportation (thank God for two licensed drivers)...and keep me sane.
Yes, I know when dh will be back...but it's not soon enough. I miss him when he is away. I suppose it is true, though that absence DOES make the heart grow fonder. I'm just glad we have until January before he is gone again!!
So kiss me and smile for me
Tell me that you'll wait for me...
Hold me like you'll never let me go....
I'm leaving on a jet plane
don't know when I'll be back again...
Dh is off again. This time he is going to California for three days. So, yes, I know when he'll be back again...but I hate to see him go. Now, I must admit that it IS getting easier (thank goodness)! But it's still no picnic.
You see ever since we have been married...it seems that our parenting, running the household, and other "stuff" has been a two-way street of give and take. OK, he may do more at times than I do...in fact, my Mom and Stepmother say I am downright spoiled! And they are right.
I am blessed. It just seems lately as he has traveled that God has shown me how He has passed that blessing along to our sons. They pull a little more weight while Dad's away. The older ones help out with the younger ones. They help me juggle schedules...transportation (thank God for two licensed drivers)...and keep me sane.
Yes, I know when dh will be back...but it's not soon enough. I miss him when he is away. I suppose it is true, though that absence DOES make the heart grow fonder. I'm just glad we have until January before he is gone again!!
Thursday, November 10, 2005
A Second Lesson
My FIL called me a little while ago and said, "Turn on channel 7. You have to see the story that is coming up." I had no idea what or why I needed to do this, but then he said, "They are going to talk about how having children makes women smarter." So I turned it on.
It is true that studies are suggesting that women are, in fact, smarter after they give birth and start raising children. Why? Because it requires multi-tasking, problem-solving, and all the other things that mothers "do".
The most interesting part of this lesson did not happen on the TV...but with son 4 as we watched this news segment. He heard them state, "Having children may actually make women smarter." Son 4 exclaimed: "It does? Wow, Mom...that means you know more than ME!" Before I could say a word, he said: "Tell me EVERYTHING you know, Mom! Please. Tell me all of it!"
I am not sure having children made me smarter, but it certainly keeps me on my toes. Now, I have to go tell son 4 "everything I know".
It is true that studies are suggesting that women are, in fact, smarter after they give birth and start raising children. Why? Because it requires multi-tasking, problem-solving, and all the other things that mothers "do".
The most interesting part of this lesson did not happen on the TV...but with son 4 as we watched this news segment. He heard them state, "Having children may actually make women smarter." Son 4 exclaimed: "It does? Wow, Mom...that means you know more than ME!" Before I could say a word, he said: "Tell me EVERYTHING you know, Mom! Please. Tell me all of it!"
I am not sure having children made me smarter, but it certainly keeps me on my toes. Now, I have to go tell son 4 "everything I know".
The Ripple Effect
Last week, when ds 1 got into some trouble, we talked about "The Ripple Effect". Since this conversation, we have noticed just how relevant and real this is. Basically, he and I discussed the fact that EVERY SINGLE decision we make has a ripple effect. Our decisions either send out a positive "ripple" or negative "ripple". It's up to us to decide. I even heard son 1 sharing this lesson with his brothers this week.
Thursday, November 03, 2005
I'm So Thankful!
Things have been crazy around our house lately...everyone's going in a different direction...though positively. I'm glad November is here. Not because it translates to anything really slowing down...but because it is a month that I am reminded to be thankful. I know that I should be thankful all the time...and maybe it's the teacher in me...but the "I'm thankful for..." statements start flowing around me starting November 1st and going right through the Winter Holidays.
Recently several things that have happened that have made me thankful:
1. DS 1 got in big trouble last week. I'm sure you're thinking: "You have a warped since of thankful, Susan!" It wasn't the trouble I am thankful for...but rather his response to it. When we talked about it with him, he said, "I know I screwed up." He was right. And he knew that he deserved the consequences that came his way as a result. Our conversation about his infraction was just that, a conversation. It wasn't hateful but rather a reality check. It was a true glimpse into and reminder of the fact that our first born son is growing up into a fine young man. For this, I am SO thankful!
2. DS 2 and I gave one of his teammates a ride home for the second time this week from the soccer game tonight. As we dropped this young man off at his house I asked son 2, "Doesn't his family ever come to his games?" He told me "No" and proceeded to tell me that the parent gets frustrated when he can't find his own ride and figure it out. I said, "That is sad." Son 2 said, "Yeah it makes you glad that you are in a family that does care." For this, I am SO thankful!
3. Dh and I had a conversation on the phone last night. I am single this week...a HUGE challenge for me! I shared something that I wanted (not really needed) and he reminded me of reality and the need to "wait a bit longer". My first inclination was to pout...yes, I know I do that. And I suppose I did for a while...but during further reflection I thought: "I am SO thankful that he is the voice of reason and that he cares enough about our family that he can think so clearly." For him, I am eternally grateful!!
4. During one neurotic "I-can't-spin-one-more-plate" moment this week, I heard the voice of a dear friend remind me that I needed to let go and let God. She reminded me to give Him my cares and to take things one day at a time. For her gentle words and important reminder, I am SO thankful!
5. I have been troubled this week by the story of a young pastor that was tragically electrocuted during a baptismal service this week. I listened to part of the funeral service online tonight and read an excerpt from his last sermon that he was going to deliver after this baptism. In it he planned to remind his church to live and live well (You can read it here. I am thankful for this message. It is a reminder that none of us has the promise of even one more second on this Earth...but we should live and live well.
I hope you all find time to be thankful this month. May it be the beginning of us all acknowledging the blessings in our lives. May we not take one single breath for granted and may we truly "live and live well."
Recently several things that have happened that have made me thankful:
1. DS 1 got in big trouble last week. I'm sure you're thinking: "You have a warped since of thankful, Susan!" It wasn't the trouble I am thankful for...but rather his response to it. When we talked about it with him, he said, "I know I screwed up." He was right. And he knew that he deserved the consequences that came his way as a result. Our conversation about his infraction was just that, a conversation. It wasn't hateful but rather a reality check. It was a true glimpse into and reminder of the fact that our first born son is growing up into a fine young man. For this, I am SO thankful!
2. DS 2 and I gave one of his teammates a ride home for the second time this week from the soccer game tonight. As we dropped this young man off at his house I asked son 2, "Doesn't his family ever come to his games?" He told me "No" and proceeded to tell me that the parent gets frustrated when he can't find his own ride and figure it out. I said, "That is sad." Son 2 said, "Yeah it makes you glad that you are in a family that does care." For this, I am SO thankful!
3. Dh and I had a conversation on the phone last night. I am single this week...a HUGE challenge for me! I shared something that I wanted (not really needed) and he reminded me of reality and the need to "wait a bit longer". My first inclination was to pout...yes, I know I do that. And I suppose I did for a while...but during further reflection I thought: "I am SO thankful that he is the voice of reason and that he cares enough about our family that he can think so clearly." For him, I am eternally grateful!!
4. During one neurotic "I-can't-spin-one-more-plate" moment this week, I heard the voice of a dear friend remind me that I needed to let go and let God. She reminded me to give Him my cares and to take things one day at a time. For her gentle words and important reminder, I am SO thankful!
5. I have been troubled this week by the story of a young pastor that was tragically electrocuted during a baptismal service this week. I listened to part of the funeral service online tonight and read an excerpt from his last sermon that he was going to deliver after this baptism. In it he planned to remind his church to live and live well (You can read it here. I am thankful for this message. It is a reminder that none of us has the promise of even one more second on this Earth...but we should live and live well.
I hope you all find time to be thankful this month. May it be the beginning of us all acknowledging the blessings in our lives. May we not take one single breath for granted and may we truly "live and live well."
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