Talk About an Attitude Adjustment! (which I really needed)

I just received an email from Laura Anderson, who is a full-time missionary/worker at an orphanage of sorts or boys home. I came across her blog(s) www.clearlyliving.blogspot.com and www.mydarlingboys.blogspot.com, several weeks ago, I think. But I when I thought I had saved it as favorite, the computer froze and shutdown...I never had success finding it...you know the vicious chain of reading comments and clicking on other blogger profiles to scope things out...well, maybe I am the only one who does such things, anywho...
I was so deeply moved on how she spends her life and I made it a family goal to pray for her, though I couldn't remember her name. Well, sometime today, she emailed me from a comment I had left on her blog and it was so good to have that connection back. Now, I know how to find her and have the ability of keeping up with all her boys and praying for them as she posts their needs.
I would also like to gather a care package of sorts to help her with the 43 or so boys that she serves and shares the love of Christ with.
Missions have always been a priority in mine and my husbands hearts. We have offered gifts to several organizations and seek ways to help, but it is so much more meaningful when you have direct contact with the people you want to bless...
I am not at all insinuating that one shouldn't give blindly, without seeing the benefits...but, sometimes giving in situations like this, my kids can see and receive vividly how the Kingdom of Heaven on earth looks...
I responded asking what their needs may be and am going to try to recruit the help of my church and the ecumenical community we live in, the small portion I could give wouldn't buy a hill of beans, or tuna, or produce....but, if I sow my resource gathering resources of the body, then, maybe my efforts will have a tiny ripple in their lives and plant seeds in the hearts of my girls. I hope the opportunity rises. It would be for my own good...I am afraid I would bear far more blessings than I could ever hope to sow...
Anyway, I think I am done with my woe is me belly aching for quite awhile.
I am in awe! How does the Holy Spirit manage to prod me ever-so-gently and divert my eyes from my own whining and feed my soul so lavishly.
Thanks, Laura...I really feel like I have just feasted at the Kings table...
Good Night and God Bless You!

Let it Rain

I am so glad to have rain! It is kind of dreary out and very wet, but it hasn't rained like this in nearly, well I don't remember the last time it rained for nearly a week almost constantly. I think the gray was making me feel a little blue, but God reminded me that we had been praying for months for a good soaker.
So, thank you, Jesus...once again you reminded me of your faithfulness and you haven't forsaken us or our land!

Lonely...

I recently went out with some girlfriends for the first time in almost a year. Like the first time of having like real girlfriend time in more than 12 months... It was fun to catch up with women who I used to be so very close to but then as our kids drifted (they are different ages involved in different things) so did we. After that evening, I realized how much of a homebody-loner I have become. I live quite the boring life-I think, it seems the most I do now is run carpools and strive to have my girls in bed by 7:30...I am usually jammied up and ready for bed then myself...
I, also, discovered that I am not a very fun person...I would much rather do nothing than initiate some great event...ie girls night out, dinner parties and the likes. Don't get me wrong, I love(d) people to come over and feel at home and hang out and waste time with me, I have just fallen out of the deep-committed-girl-friend routine that was me for so many years. I have become complacent and satisfied with merely existing. I really need to work on motivation, I kind of lost all sense of self last (school) year following my lymphoma diagnosis and year of scholastic hell I put myself through trying to flee from myself so I could find myself...I wonder what I was thinking.
FYI, I am not in some deep depression or hating my life, by any means...I am just realizing where I was and where I am and discerning where I want to go...I have been in a fog/survival/fearful-of-leaving-my-girls-before-I-was-ready...so-what-do-I-do-about-it-mode--It is quite paralyzing. Now, I am privileged to be co-creating with God another new life and have the honor of choosing to exude Christ to this new little soul...that is exciting to me. (Minus the waking up 10 times to pee, and chronic fatigue that comes with it)
I am going to tuck my girls in (way too late, they are starting to slur their speech) and go to bed myself and pray that I am living life in a pleasing way that would look different and cause people to question my motives...
Crazy Pregnant Person I am...now there is proof of how crazy I really am...hopefully I haven't scared any of the few readers that linger here.
Good night.

On the Down side...

I have a UTI...bleck! Pray it goes away quick, please. This is the first one I have ever had. Oh yeah, (not that I try to be ugly or mean)but, my OB and ALL of her staff are morons and idiotic! I went in for a culture and they told my I'd have to wait until Monday to get results! I said a bad word (in my head), then calmly asked them if it was normal to have an infection and wait 5 extra days (making 8 total) for relief and treatment for an infection...
They said that they could do a quick culture and the nurse would call me today...5 hours later and after I called her (3 times) and 30 mins. before my pharmacy closed, she asked what exactly I needed and that she had never gotten any message or indication that I had come in (yet she talked to me originally this AM)...
Idiots!

Ugh, I feel better...

I am human having a very un-Christ-like attitude...Hopefully, tomorrow I will be sorry I was so merciless and repent...
Pray my attitude changes and that I feel better...
I feel like one of those GIANT water towers, I would love to be drained...

Merry Christmas!!!

It is finally chilly about 40 degrees and we are having a lazy day (lazy, cause it is well past noon and I am in my jammies, but I have sorted and milled 20 cups of grain, baked 2 dozen dinner rolls for Christmas dinner, started my 8 dozen cinnamon rolls, and everything is wrapped, constructed and ready to go! Woohoo!!! It has been pretty peaceful, only one tragedy, I think the girls are actually getting tired of being home and playing...playing together, that is.
We have an annual Christmas Eve Chili dinner at my 'favorite Aunt C.C.'s (and Uncle Joe Turkey Toes)' this evening where we will visit with lots of my aunts, uncles and cousins. Then of to church at 8, I love our Christmas Eve service, but I am a bit nervous--I was asked to share about what Christ has revealed to me through this season, I hope I honor Him...hopefully the girls will fall asleep on the way home.
There is much anticipation as to what gifts will be revealed in the morning after their long winters nap:) and boy are they really excited! The suspense is almost over-Molly is under the impression that all we are giving and receiving is basketballs...except for the one unwrapped present that 'the dog' unwrapped and Polly was revealed with too many outfits and accessories to count...
We have a busy day with my family coming over at around 10 for brunch and then dinner at my parents and another dinner at my brother and sister (Mike's side) where we will cheerfully visit and roll all the way home.
I pray that the Savior will reveal His humble power to each of you in a beautifully, tangible way.
I will start posting pics soon...I am a slow learner, but things are quickly clicking:)

Better Keep 'Em Close...

I saw this on my friend, Will's blog...

Mission POSSIBLE!...

...Today is our first day off from everything:). In the chaos of the last 3 days, we have lost something huge and it's something very hard to find. The floor! But I am going to turn my sleeves up and be determined to accomplish what seems impossible. I have the kids home today and we are going to be spending about 4 hours picking up, dusting, pairing shoes, rescuing Polly from the Nativity, spraying all the greenery, watering our Christmas tree and trying to remain sane, and cheerful all the while.

The reward for our efforts (drum roll, please) a walk around the block, and a mom wearing a big grin and feeling like I have conquered the world...well, our corner of the world at least.

God bless your day.

PS-Dearest Molly,
I loved that you came in at about 6 to snuggle and sleep for an extra hour in my arms! And when you giggled in your sleep this morning...I knew the day would be great! No matter how mundane things seem, your life, in our family makes washing little clothes a joy, and cutting your sandwich in triangles a gift and purpose for my existence. I love you:)! You are a gift!

It's almost over...

The past two days has been crazy! Good crazy, I think. Just the hustle and bustle getting to dress rehearsals, making 2 dozen snowman sugar cookies and 2 giant gingerbread men, family coming in, grocery store run, a cake delivery in a neighboring town, and a subway lunch date with Mike<3!>

Today, my ninth anniversary is going to be just as crazy! But at the end of the day...I will have completed my marathon, the girls will be done with school, plays and parties, my shopping is done, wrapping, too, I am going to have a very yummy anniversary dinner with Mike at a local Japanese restaurant (which the baby has been CRAVING for almost a month now;), and quiet adult conversation will replace the loud, loaded kids that are on an infinitely high sugar buzz (free babysitting compliments of aunt tishy, my niece)....

Then, we are home free for 2 weeks! To relax and enjoy each other and those we love.

Oh yes, I forgot to mention....I am no longer operating under complete nausea! I only barf when unpleasant fragrances and food pass me...which, is way better than 10 times a day! So thank you, Jesus, I can enjoy your birthday cake and eat it, too!

Have a good day!

Ode to a GREEEAAAAATTTT weekend!

Don't you love those weekends when nothing urgent has to be done and you are on a very minimal schedule? I DO!!!! I wish every weekend were like this past one.

To start off, school was canceled on Friday for my oldest two, Emma and Julianna, so we got an extra day together. Although, I did have to work Friday morning, they came with me and helped out some. Then, we came home and watched Frosty the Snowman and had a very relaxing afternoon-NICE! We did do a little shopping that evening, to get supplies to make our teacher gifts...Molly was cranky and was made to stay behind with Mike--it was for the best! Mike made us dinner, it was interesting...he is a great musician, artist, fun and hardworking kind-of guy, but, not the worlds best cook. We stayed up and watched Christmas movies Frosty Returns and White Christmas, well, they did Mike and I fell asleep at about 9 o'clock with the girls heaped around us.

Saturday morning I got 3 hours to myself to finish up my Christmas shopping...I hadn't bought a thing for Emma, but, luckily hit Target and the Family Bookstore. I successfully found everything but a porcelain doll at those two locations, yay. She asked for a bible, rollerblades, MP3 player and a porcelain doll. I, have been collecting things to fill their stockings like a movie, Adventures in Odyssey, and a few pieces of candy for everyone.


After tallying up all my holiday spending, I have only spent $217.58! (This includes my family's name swap 5 gifts, 11 teachers gifts, Mike's family-which is 17 people, and our girls) I am amazed. I shopped sales, ebay and we cut way back this year. We are choosing to die to our flesh and not buy into the commercialism. We want to bless our children and for them to be content, so we are sticking to getting them some of the things that they have asked for. We are spending money on blessing others, being sneaky secret saints (I asked each of the girls to pick someone in their class to bless, the kid who has a hard time or is 'different', we went and bought simple, fun treats and knocked and ran...watching them open the door was so rewarding), and just gueniunely putting others above ourselves.


Sorry, back on track...Saturday afternoon, Emma and I went to her Little Sister's Christmas party (think Brownie Girl Scouts, but it is through the ecumenical community we live in). There the girls made reindeer T-shirts with their handprint, played games, had yummy snacks, did the 'Wright's family gift exchange' with our Bingo winnings and read a beautiful story about a young polish girl who give away her blessings to receive treasure beyond measure. It was quite a memory making time for Emma and all the girls in her group...and me.


Then the rain came!!!! Thank you, Jesus!


We had a meal to deliver to our friends, who lost their 23-year-old son earlier this month. It was good to see them and their eldest son, Eric, who was in our wedding almost 9 years ago, but very sad knowing that Michael wouldn't be answering the door or there to hug my neck...he is in heaven in the full presence of the Father...I am jealous, but sad.


Sunday was a full, but lazy day we went to church and had friends over that we hadn't seen in a long time. It was good, short lived but good! We have an awesome church! Our pastor seeks the Lord with all his might and never wavers from speaking the truth, even when it's hard. It is home and we are fed and grow spiritually.
By evening, it was time to pack lunches and lay out uniforms for another busy week...lots of parties, caroling, baking and anticipating the coming of our KING!

Hope your weekend was a great and relaxing as ours!

Fat Man's

As we were looking through the Christmas Trees inside Emma comment, 'There are tons of virgins, mom.'
Me: um, what do you mean, Emma.
Emma: Well, there are a bazillion trees in here and they are all decorated differently, with different um, virgins....
Me: Ah, yes there are lots of different VERSIONS or THEMES.
Emma: Yes, that's what I mean....and it's really cool.

Too cute!

The place we went to is really special and there is not anywhere else quite like it. The girls had alot of fun riding the electric train outside among the live trees for sale, buying boiled peanuts, and looking around at all the different virgins of trees...so, next time your in Augusta, Ga. you'll definitely want to visit.

Christmas in July....

I am blasting the A/C and the Christmas carols and trying hard to keep my evergreen tree convinced that it really is cold season--so she'll stay everGREEN (well at least til New Years).

It is 83 degrees here and feels 95. To really get in the mood, I have decided to put off afternoon chores and do something fun! I have already received Molly Moo and Nanners from school and I leave in ten minutes to pick up my Emma~bug and we are going to head straight for their favorite Christmas spot in all of Augusta...Fat Man's Forest! I am going to surprise them and be their favorite for the afternoon and they will love me dearly and be so sugary sweet to me and just go on and on about how I am the best mom in the entire kingdom, then we will come home and I will force feed them salad and black beans and rice (not their favorite dinner).....Finally, reality will sink in and livin' large will turn into the old mundane 'Are you sure I need a bath and to brush my teeth?' and 'Will you please tuck me in really tight and read me one more story?' or 'I am not really that tired?' all things said while becoming ever-so whiny and rubbing eyes.

Hopefully, they will fall asleep each with a full belly, a happy heart and a great memory!
I know I will!

Lord, thanks for the freedom to waste time with my girls. I am very grateful to have them and watch them marvel in your blessings. Bless every mom who struggles to give her children a life free from fear and afford her every need. Give hope to the hopeless. Make me mindful of the needs of others and give me the grace to show your mercy. Amen!

P.S.--I will tell you how it goes; )

Adventures with Molly...

So, one week ago today, Molly woke up snotty, coughing, and with a really gross oozy red eye. I knew it exactly what we were dealing with and promptly made an appointment with our pediatrician. Once we were checked in and called back had read everything on the counter that would be of any interest, Dr. Getts came in and started with his flash light.
The verdict, PINK-EYE and the beginnings of a sinus infection! I knew it, I should have M.D. at the end of my name.
The funny part...
Dr. Getts: Molly, you have pink eye.
Molly: Oh no I don't, my eyes are blue.
Dr. Getts (chuckling): Yes, Molly you do have blue eyes, very pretty blue eyes, but your pretty blue eyes have a yucky germ and it made your eye turn pink. I will give you some medicine and it will go away quickly.
Molly (grinning from ear to ear): OOOHHHH, YES! That's okay because Pink is my favorwit color!

We both laughed and about 5 mins after he left the room and as we left, all the nurses were chuckling and in awe at how creatively precious my four-year-old was that day.

Have a good day!

The Truth About St. Nick....

On the 5th of December, we were talking about St. Nick and how he lived his life in charity and humility for Jesus....Julianna wanted more information than I had to offer, so to the computer we go g-o-o-g-l-e dot com...St. Nick....http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=371. As I read to the girls, we came upon the date that he died. Boy could you see the gears turning in her little head, 'so he died, so he died, so he died...', I wondered how she was sorting all the info. in her head, but didn't say anything and neither did she. We mostly talked about how he lost his parents and was very wealthy and chose to spend his life loving others to Christ through generosity, kindness and gifts to the poor in spirit and needy. Then, we talked about how we could do this everyday and live with the same spirit, the Holy Spirit, in our hearts. We prayed that He would come and help us to see others needs both physical and spiritual and be guided to act on it, instead of remaining complacent and just feeling sad for others.
(Mike and I have followed the tradition of having the girls put their shoes out and waking up to treats on St. Nicolas Day (Dec. 6th), it is usually something simply this year it was small bag of mini m&m's, a lip gloss and another piece of candy. It is a fun tradition and the girls love it.)
Back to the Julianna story, things were great and fine until she got home from school the next afternoon and it was just her and I for awhile...the questions or comments (those things that she decided were truth based on the info. I had read to her)...
Julianna: 'So mom if St. Nick is dead and Santa Claus is just like him then who brings us our Christmas presents?'
Me: 'His helper.'
Julianna: 'The Holy Spirit is everyones helper, so the Holy Spirit brings them.'
Me: 'Not exactly.?.'
Julianna: 'Well you said that we could all be like St. Nick and so I KNOW we can all be his helper, right?'
Me: 'Right'
I couldn't lie...
Julianna: 'another thing, mom, I know that God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit are the only ones that can be everywhere at the same time and Santa was just a man but he had the power of the Holy Spirit--he wasn't the Holy Spirit.' (all said in one breath, very matter-of-fact.
Me: speechless
Julianna: 'So, I think that you and dad are Santa's helpers and we can all be....I know that cause I saw Emma's Easy bake oven in the back of the van last year, I accidentally took the cover off of it and saw it....'
Me: Well, you have it all figured out, don't you?

It was really a relief, we were feeling a little bad about playing into the whole commercialized secular holiday that has become Christmas. We want to follow the example of Christ and St. Nick and to bless others and to see the true meaning lifted up, not the what am I getting, this is my list, is this all I get? mentality...
It would be okay for us to not get a thing and to go serve the lost people who are struggling with addiction, and it would be far more honoring to Christ.
Don't get me wrong, we are going to give our girls a stocking and a couple of presents, but our perspective has changed. I have always felt so guilty at the thought of having a small Christmas spread for our kids, so at the last minute I lay everything out on our bed and it just never seems to be enough--then I go out to Walmart or Target and buy 'filler stuff' with next months money so that the tree won't seem so bare. Shame on me...I was reminded of a simple song, it's chorus is 'I'm coming back to the heart of worship, and it's all about You, it's all about You, Jesus. I'm sorry Lord for the things I've made it, cause it's all about You, it's all about You, Jesus.'
That's what I want for my girls, I pray grateful hearts and content demeanor'.

P.S. This is not to condemn, it is just where the Lord has brought my heart. There is nothing wrong with gifting loved ones or buying presents for your kids and going along with the Santa tradition. I just pray that through the Advent and Christmas season that all would be blessed by the coming and presence of Jesus Christ and that all would be moved to be his hands and his feet and willing to listen to His spirit as it leads you to show His light to the lost, weary and forgotten.

Peace.

Don't have a Heartattack....I've been really busy....

So, yeah this is my first blog in about, well, six or seven months.....I think I am back on board....
I have lots of stories to share about my 3 chickadees, their plunderings and ideas that the gears in their little brains crank out...so, I will start with why I have been sooo busy, too busy, in fact to blog....
I have a little bean growing in my belly and he/she has kept me quite busy barfing, craving salsa and instant mashed potatoes (not together), crying at toilet tissue commercials, and playing pacman (which really seems to help my nausea settle).
I have also been adjusting (since September) to the new schedule the kids going back to school... when does barfing fit in with making lunches, breakfast and beds???, yes, I am still adjusting...why can't class start at let's say, hmmm, sometime after noon would work for us....
Mike is not working for WRDW anymore, well since the end of July, it has been awhile, he is still pt at GNC, so go buy vitamins while you're at the mall Christmas shopping, and driving a truck for Golden Harvest Food Bank....I am changing poopie diapers on Fridays at Molly's preschool to off set the cost of her tuition, plus, I get a little spending money. I have been slacking somewhat on my church job, I could be doing better if I weren't puking 10 times a day....
So, this is to you Dottie-Wottie-Stinky-Poo-Poo...I will promise to try to be more on top of things....

T-ball, the pool and then.....BACKING INTO A PARKED CAR.....

Well, the day was sweltering and t-ball practice was torture, so we stayed at the Y for a quick swim to cool off. After about an hour, I called it quits.

I loaded the girls in the van and got everyone buckled and backed out of my space and into the tail-end of a van that was parked on a yellow curb, right behind me. After mumbling a not so nice word under my breath, I turned back around and pulled back in the same spot. I got out to see the damage, a little miffed at a) myself for hitting a parked car and b) at the lady who parked there illegally. Then I called Mike to find the number for dispatch and he couldn't find it...so I called our policeman friend, Kenny to get it from him. Just then, a very pleasant man and woman came to me and asked if I had called the police and I told them that I hadn't dialed it yet...

The gentleman who was in the van I hit, when I hit it assured the lady that it wasn't a big deal that he and his buddy could fix it--no problem. So she, the driver, who wasn't present when I backed into her van said that there was no reason to haggle with our insurance companies that it was a wash. I was not so convinced, so I kept asking questions and then made the comment to the effect that I could not pay for damage out of pocket, if it ever came to that and that she was illegally parked, so I would rather go ahead and file a report. I did not want her to get a ticket or in trouble or anything of the sort--but, if it was by chance my fault (and, legally it was) I couldn't buy her a new bumper for her van. She was so insulted by this comment. She said that she thought that she was being very generous and kind, and 'this is what the world has come to...you try and be kind and people believe that you're some kind of backstabbing person. Why would she expect me to pay for it if we both walk away'....She was 'appalled that I would say such things about her'. I was merely trying to communicate with her.
I didn't know her from Adam's house cat! For all I knew, she could be a con-artist and parked there hoping that someone would hit her. Or, she could be a wonderful God-fearing woman--I don't and won't judge her....I just had to do what was in the best interest for me and my house. She was a stranger, not my best friend or family member...and even if she were, I think that I still would have opted for a report to protect my friendship.
She just went back to her car and I called my police friend back and asked what I should do and he encouraged me to call dispatch. A moment later, she comes back over assuring me that she was a woman of her word and that yes, she was appalled at my reaction and she was going to leave and be done with it. I vividly communicated to her that I was sorry that she took such offense, that I, by no means meant any negativity by what I said, I was just trying to communicate with her, and to make sure I was covered. She left.
I called dispatch to report the accident. I did learn that if you hit a parked car, even if it is illegally parked, you are at fault. So it was in my best interest to file. But the Good Lord was watching over me, the officer who responded thought it all sounded fishy, and called his lieutenant, who refused to charge me with the accident because I did the ethical thing and reported the accident. The officer took it as Miscellaneous Claim, instead of an Accident Claim. Now, if she decides that she want to report the accident, she will be charged as fleeing the scene and it won't reflect negatively on my insurance.
Emma was astonished, she said "Mom, you mean you turned yourself in? That is the silliest thing! Why on earth would you want to do that"
I responded that it is better to be honest and to take responsibility for your actions than to run and hide when you do something wrong. It is near impossible to receive God's mercy if you won't confess your wrong-doings. This may be precisely why God allowed me to go through this. A character trait physically tangible for my girls to relate to always. Who knows.
What a day--Thank God for the new one He will give me in the tomorrow.
God Bless that woman wherever she is. Protect her and bless her abundantly. Thank you for your guidance through this not so fun situation and convict me and forgive me of any wrong-doing if I am guilty. If I run into her again, no if I ever see her again help Your mercy to shine through me. Amen.

On the way in the backdoor...

As we walked up the step to the backdoor, Molly said, "It won't open", in her whiniest voice.

Me, "Well, guess what I have?"

Julianna, loud and confident, "The key!"

Molly, "That's because you work here."

Me, "I DO?"

Julianna as she walked through the sunroom, singing, "Yeah, your our slave...."

After much complaining...I find myself abundantly content!!!!

Jay Leno has the right idea....

JAY LENO..."HITS THE NAIL ON THE HEAD"

Jay Leno wrote this; it's the Jay Leno we don't often see...."The other day I was reading Newsweek magazine and came across some poll data I found rather hard to believe. It must be true given the source, right?The Newsweek poll alleges that 67 percent of Americans are unhappy with the direction the country is headed and 69 percent of the country is unhappy with the performance of the president. In essence 2/3s of the citizenry just ain't happy and want a change. So being the knuckle dragger I am, I started thinking,''What we are so unhappy about?''Is it that we have electricity and running water 24hours a day, 7 days a week? Is our unhappiness the result of having air conditioning in the summer and heating in the winter? Could it be that95.4 percent of these unhappy folks have a job? Maybe it is the ability to walk into a grocery store at any time and see more food in moments than Darfur has seen in the last year?Maybe it is the ability to drive from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean without having to present identification papers as we move through each state? Or possibly the hundreds of clean and safe motels we would find along the way that can provide temporary shelter? I guess having thousands of restaurants with varying cuisine from around the world is just not good enough. Or could it be that when we wreck our car, emergency workers show up and provide services to help all and even send a helicopter to take you to the hospital.Perhaps you are one of the 70 percent of Americans who own a home. You may be upset with knowing that in the unfortunate case of a fire, a group of trained firefighters will appear in moments and use top notch equipment to extinguish the flames thus saving you, your family and your belongings.Or if, while at home watching one of your many flat screen TVs, a burglar or prowler intrudes , an officer equipped with a gun and a bullet-proof vest will come to defend you and your family against attack or loss. This all in the backdrop of a neighborhood free of bombs or militias raping and pillaging the residents. Neighborhoods where 90percent of teenagers own cell phones and computers.How about the complete religious, social and political freedoms we enjoy that are the envy of everyone in the world? Maybe that is what has 67 percent of you folks unhappy.Fact is, we are the largest group of ungrateful,spoiled brats the world has ever seen. No wonder the world loves the U.S. , yet has a great disdain for its citizens. They see us for what we are. The most blessed people in the world who do nothing but complain about what we don't have , and what we hate about the country instead of thanking the good Lord we live here.I know, I know. What about the president who took us into war and has no plan to get us out? The president who has a measly 31percent approval rating? Is this the same president who guided the nation in the dark days after 9/11? The president that cut taxes to bring an economy out of recession? Could this be the same guy who has been called every name in the book for succeeding in keeping all the spoiled ungrateful brats safe from terrorist attacks?The commander in chief of an all-volunteer army that is out there defending you and me? Did you hear how bad the President is on the news or talk show? Did this news affect you so much, make you so unhappy you couldn't take a look around for yourself and see all the good things and be glad?Think about it......are you upset at the President because he actually caused you personal pain OR is it because the "Media" told you he was failing to kiss your sorry ungrateful behind every day Make no mistake about it. The troops in Iraq and Afghanistan have volunteered to serve, and in many cases may have died for your freedom. There is currently no draft in this country. They didn't have to go.They are able to refuse to go and end up with either a ''general'' discharge, an ''other than honorable'' discharge or,worst case scenario, a ''dishonorable'' discharge after a few days in the brig.So why then the flat-out discontentment in the minds of 69 percent of Americans? Say what you want but I blame it on the media. If it bleeds it leads and they specialize in bad news. Everybody will watch a car crash with blood and guts. How many will watch kids selling lemonade at the corner? The media knows this and media outlets are for- profit corporations. They offer what sells , and when criticized, try to defend their actions by "justifying" them in one way or another. Just ask why they tried to allow a murderer like O.J. Simpson to write a book about how he didn't kill his wife, but if he did he would have done it this way......Insane!Stop buying the negativism you are fed everyday by the media. Shut off the TV, burn Newsweek , and use the New York Times for the bottom of your bird cage. Then start being grateful for all we have as a country. There is exponentially more good than bad.We are among the most blessed people on Earth and should thank God several times a day, or at least be thankful and appreciative.""With hurricanes, tornados, fires out of control, mudslides, flooding, severe thunderstorms tearing up the country from one end to another, and with the threat of bird flu and terrorist attacks,"Are we sure this is a good time to take God out of the Pledge of Allegiance?"Jay Leno Please keep this in circulation. There are so many people that need to read this and grasp the truth of it all.


Be content!

Why don't we respond with such haste when babies are flushed?....

I have been glued all week to any source of media willing to give more information on the Virginia Tech Massacre. I have cried tears of sorrow, disbelief and relief--then back to sorrow. My cousin Capers Thompson is a grad student at VT in the engineering dept., I emailed him and got a response--I was so relieved! He said that he was in his basement office in the building next door to hall where the most lives were taken. He didn't hear any of the shots and none of his friends names were on the list of those murdered; although, as he was ushered out of his building he did witness some of the victims being brought out. I am a burden bearer, I cannot help not ingesting the tragedy and mourning with the parents, siblings, friends, teachers, community and country.
Today, as I was thinking about murder, it struck me that we don't band together and grow weary at the number of abortions that are taking place in our neighborhoods, cities, states, and country. We are talking about thousands. I am ashamed of myself! I do grieve and am not trying to make light of what happened in Virginia--I just think that if we all mourned the way we did at the hundreds or thousand of men and women who take life from babies, maybe, just maybe it would stop!

God comfort the families of the victims and if the victims weren't in a state of grace, God have mercy on their souls and draw them to Your side.

God have mercy on Cho Seung-Hui, he was plagued by many demons.

God have mercy on the abortionist, that so quickly take innocent lives.

God have mercy on me, help me to mourn the loss of the millions of children who are stripped of their right to life. Help me to have compassion and mercy on others. God help me and give me the grace to raise my girls to hold sacred the gift of LIFE--both physically and spiritually.

God have mercy and help us to forgive, but to never forget that there will be countless smiles that will never be seen, that the ability to witness all aborted children as they are held, kissed and nurtured for the first time will never exist because they are murdered and flushed away, and saving their first lock of hair or their first tooth will never come to pass.

Help me to show Your mercy and to demonstrate your love and to make life and restoration in You my earthly goal.

In honor of ALL the lives that were taken prematurely on that chilly, gray morning,April 16, 2007.

The Power of a Stamp

Emma's first grade class at school has been collecting postcards via snail-mail, the idea was that postcards from all over the world would help the children learn geography and map skills. I (b/c, hello how is a 6-year-old going to contract all her distant friends and relatives, I mean really) was very late getting started on this project due to recent illness and was terribly afraid that Emma would be the lonely child with no postcards to place on the map. So, I got this smart idea....I emailed all my relatives and I also have profiles on an open forums, in which I keep in touch with lots of people. I sent them all messages asking them to forward the message to their most trusted friends and family--it became a chain and Emma has gotten so many postcards for MY, I mean her, project that I no longer worry about her crushed spirit, she beams every time I pick her up. We have only run into one problem, we're (I'm) not quite sure about the identity of all the postcard senders.

I was just amazed at how all kinds of people, strangers (to us) mostly, have taken the time on their vacations, gone out of the way to hit up there city/state/country information centers, and put effort into passing the word when I was in a pinch and trying to create lost time. My family, friends and their peeps amaze me!
Then, I started thinking about how humanity as a whole has insurmountable ability to pull together when someone states a need. This was such a tiny thing, but it really makes my little girl feel like she has a connection to every person who spent their time to send her, a little girl in Augusta, Georgia, United States of America, a 4x6 picture with their name and current location.
At that moment, 3:01 PM eastern time, when she hops in the van and her eyes are extra sparkly, I know that in her soul she gets it- she understands that the world has 'got her back'! That people are created to co-exist and to help each other out.
She's my baby girl and once again, I have been reminded of how precious life is and that it is much more exciting to add your thread to the grand tapestry (even with its flaws and irregularities) than it is to hold back, sit on the side, wound on a spool and never be used.
I can't wait for my other children to get that gleam in their bright, blue eyes and know that their little souls have understood something great!

Who Am I?

I have been in the most disturbing disposition lately. Maybe it was that we have only had 3 fever-free days in about 5 weeks, or that we had a few cold, yucky, wet, YOU-CAN'T-MAKE-ME-LEAVE-MY-P.J.'S, or the giant mess that came with being so sick. Who knows, I am still trying to figure it out. Whichever excuse I pick, while the children are bickering and tired of the walls around them, as they struggle to shake the stomach bug, the flu, nasty Augusta allergies, ear-infections, sinus infections, bronchial virus--yesterday after church, I just could not take one more moment.

I had been hearing and contributing to the whining, crying, screaming and chaos in our home.

I tried HARD!!! to have a thankful heart about modern commodities such as running water--to wash all the throw-up pillows, comforters, nightgowns, stuffed animals, shoes, walls, cracks in the hardwood floors; the medicine to treat the coughs, fevers, aches, infections of various origins; the doctors who were treating all five of us at differing times; my neighbors who so very willingly served me while I was AFRAID TO CLOSE MY EYES, they just stepped right in and took me to my Dr., watched my girls, fed, clothed and snuggled them for the 8 or so days when I just couldn't; my husband who even while sick still worked both of his jobs to provide for us and spent his free time watching me breath....still with all these things to be so very grateful
for. (And, my socks were blessed right off).

Something in my heart was just dying a huge piece was missing. (No, it wasn't the Jesus shaped piece.) I forgot the biggest blessing in my life, just shy of my salvation, God then gently showed me.

It happened last night, I drank a diet coke after 1PM and couldn't sleep, I was blog hopping and found a very beautiful spot and spent half-an-hour reading. The spot I found was created by a lady who has spent many years of her life (with her husband, of course) pleading and begging the Father for a child. She and her husband have grown a Snugglebug in their hearts because her womb just couldn't and are soon going to begin tilling the soil of their hearts to seek another 'wanted' child.
And, this my friend was my problem...I have three precious souls in my tender care and I have been treating them like the couch or the dusty coffee table, maybe even the puked on toilet or snotted up pillowcase. The Lord gave me three miracles-Emmabug, Julianna (Nanna Kat), and Molly-moo and I have spent the last 5 weeks of my life being selfish, childish and altogether rotten in my words, thoughts and deeds.

I had lost all gratefulness for my children! How did this happen I don't know but I was literally heartbroken when I figured it out.

I am eternally grateful for the attitude adjustment and the redemption I sought while reading your page, Overwhelmed with Joy. I admire your desire for children and ask forgiveness for taking for granted what you are begging for-- LIFE, whether grown in your womb or in your heart, God gifts us the miracle, however, He sees fit. It has just taken you and your open heart for me to get back in shape.

And as all three of my chickadee's would say:

THANK YOU FROM THE HEARTS OF OUR BOTTOMS
( ; ) yes, it's supposed to be backwards)

The Princess and the Kiss

Several years ago, my sister-in-law, Mary told me about a book that tells the story of a princess who saves her kiss for her prince. It is an incredible story that speaks of the precious gift that is given to all princesses upon their birth--their first kiss. The king and queen teach their daughter patience, reverence and truth. They encourage her to pursue godly and righteous love. It is beautifully illustrated and written, a must have for every little princess on the face of the earth.

The fruit of this story is evident in the lives of my nieces. I am so glad that my girls have such bold role-models! I wanted to share how this impacted my oldest niece. I am going to share a blog from her myspace page. She posted this about a year ago and I was reminded of it during my prayer time this morning (remember that this is posted on myspace and keep in the back of your mind all that you have heard about myspace and what it stands for--well to the majority of those that use it). I am so proud of her, anyone who stumbles on her page will know what she stands for. She sticks out like a sore thumb. I have printed this particular blog and keep it in all three copies of "The Princess and the Kiss" (Aunt Murry and Uncle Sam gave all of our girls their very own copy as birthday gifts), so my girls will know as they grow what God expects and what His grace will provide. And the book is very innocent, so you don't have to worry about 'the birds and the bees' coming out of the story. (My own girls think that God delivers babies to moms when daddy's kiss them alot)

So, grab a Kleenex and feed your heart...Read on...

I have a confession to make... I am an 18 year old female who will be 19 in July, and I have never been kissed. Some of you may be shocked that a girl can last this long without even getting pecked! (I'm a little baffled at my situation too). I wasn't allowed to date in high school and I graduated with 24 other people. So... there weren't a whole lot of guys to choose from to begin
with, and most of the other girls were alot prettier than I was. This is probably the biggest factor to my never being kissed dilemma. I have come close to kissing a few guys, but
I don't want to be the one to initiate it. I don't have a
lot of confidence in myself, and I want the guy to step up and take action (not me). Also, the past relationships that I've been in have been wishy-washy and true intentions haven't been clear. I really try to communicate with the other person what I want, but it always seems I am doing all the work in the relationship. I am not a lesbian, dork, or prude. I am just patiently waiting for the right guy at the right moment in the right
circumstances. This brings me to my second confession... I'm sick of waiting. I just want to feel what it is like to be loved unconditionally, and I want to know who I'll end up with the rest of my life.... I don't think that I have met my prince charming yet, and I'm starting to worry if he is even out there. I really hope he is willing to wait for me too!!! Here are some other little reasons why I'm still holding onto my kiss: When I turned 13 my parents gave me a book called "The
Princess and the Kiss". It is about this princess whose parents give her a gift when she is born. The gift of course is her
kiss. When the princess turns 16 her parents let her decide who she is going to give her kiss to, but they tell her that it is a special
gift not to be given away frivolously. Many suitors come to call on her, but they all are undeserving of her kiss. Finally, a poor
farmer boy comes to the castle and brings with him a kiss of his
own. The princess knows he is the one because he saved his
kiss just like she did, and they live happily ever after!
My Jr. year of high school during morning prayers
one of the girls prayed for "The purity of our future husbands". This of course made a lasting impression on me because I
want to marry someone who has the same values about purity that I do!Here is a little quote that sums up my never been kissed situation:"Women are like apples on trees The best ones are at the top of the tree.The men don't want to reach for the good ones because they are afraid of falling and getting hurt. Instead they just get the rotten apples from the ground, that aren't as
good,but easy. So the apples at the top think something is wrong with them, when in reality, They are AMAZING! They just have to wait for the right man to come along, the one who is brave enough to climb all the way to the top of the tree" Are you that man? Are you going to be brave enough to climb to the very top? ... If you are please let me know!!! I won't lower my standards just to feel that I am loved by someone because I'm holding out for the real thing!!!

There is such wisdom in her blog! I am so blessed that my own children look up to her, she sets the stakes high for the 11 cousins that come behind her.

BE BLESSED!

How Come?

A conversation between Molly Grace and Julianna...

Molly Grace: Julianna, Minnie Mouse is old as Nana and Papa, how come she doesn't have any babies?

Julianna:(sighs) Because she is just colored with markers in the movie and if you see her 'for real'--Well, You know! She is just a big stuffed rat!

Molly Grace: Oh, yes!

All But One of our Troops are Up and Running

Thursday, Emma came home from school, rosy cheeked, glassy eyed and not quite looking like herself. My immediate response was to ask her how she was and to put my hand on her forehead. She felt HOT!

She answered in a confident voice that she had a bad headache, but she knew the cause.

I just had to know....

Okay, mommy, it was third recess and it was raining, so we had to stay inside
and we decided to have a domino contest. Well, it wasn't the dots one, it
was matching opposites...and that is when I got a tiny headache. Mommy, I
was just concentrating so hard on the dominoes that it made my brain get a tiny
ache. It just got worser and worser and worser still! Then my whole
entire head was really hot, but it was time to get my book bag and I didn't think
i really needed to tell Mrs. Jackson, since I was coming straight to the
car. And now, I am telling you! Since I am not feeling so good, do
you think I could lay down and watch TV in your room?

Okay, Emmabug!

The thermometer read 102.1.

Well, just when I thought we were totally clear, the pediatrician confirmed it with a flu culture-- with 7-10 days of rest, Motrin and Tylenol piggy-backed she will be good as new.

Poor baby. That was 5 days ago, she is still running a fever with the meds and feeling quite puny.

So much for those two bottles of Lysol I used last Wednesday. My house has never been so clean, yet I refuse, I mean, I refuse to do it again! Well, until she is fever free for 24 hours. I think the next time the flu comes sailing through, I won't clean anything until after we have all endured it!

I have one little girl who has yet to get it, in any form! Please pray for Julianna, she is tired of sitting out on life while the rest of the family has been sick. She has been on lock down since Valentine's Day, and is bored, bored, bored!

Gosh, I hope that through our diligence that no one will be sick on our account! It is a nasty bug this year!

Sick of Being Sick!

Today marks day number 6 in my fight to beat the flu, severe bronchitis, double ear-infection, and a nasty sinus infection. As if the flu weren't enough--Thanks a bunch Castleman's Disease! Now, my little Molly has a constant fever (day #2 for her).

It all started Tuesday morning, I woke up and felt fine, except for the feeling of having a large brick in my chest. I went about my normal routine and was ever-so busy getting Valentine's stuff together and finishing the final touches on planning a big party and a little party for the following day. I was totally out of steam by about 6 and started to get the aches and chills. Repeat Tuesday on Wednesday, except by the time I got home from the big party at 5:45 PM, I had a fever of 103.8 and did what had to be done to get the girls all squared away. I hate this, I always feel like a dead-beat when the girls aren't properly sent off to bed (bath, cuddles and stories, prayers and bed), I think they may have slept in some form of their dirty clothes.

Thursday was when it really hit me! I could not even get out of bed. Emma had to bring me the phone and the debate was between 911 and the neighbors. I WAS WORKING AND THINKING ABOUT HOW TO BREATHE! It was so scary. My across the street saint came and got the girls and all their stuff and got them off to school. Thanks, Becca! Temp was 104.9 an hour after 800mg of Motrin and 2 extra strength Tylenol. My chest hurt so bad I was praying for new lungs. I stayed in bed all day and prayed for everyone I knew who was sick, pregnant, in the ministry, feeling isolated, those in third world countries who have no running water, mothers without babies, babies without mothers, and so on...

Mike did come home and watched me breathe and supplied me with plenty of Gatorade and water bottles. He spent a lot of time watching me breathe.

Friday, believe it or not, I felt okay and got Emma out the door, in her red, white and gold and managed to get the other two dressed and fed (it was Cheetos and juice boxes) and I went to lie down for about an hour and my fever shot up again. I called my Dr. and he told me to get in as quick as I could.

After he listened to me breathe, I was sent over to the ER.

I did not have the feared pneumonia. But it was really bad--double ear infection, severe bronchitis, sinus infection and the flu.

Today, I am actually sitting upright and typing this (though, I know it is poorly written, I want a record in case I ever lack humility). My fever is only 99.8 without med to reduce it. My ear drum did rupture, so I am not vomiting anymore b/c my equilibrium was so off. So that is some relief. After using an Albuterol inhaler every 20 mins for about 5 hours I regained the ability to take a deep breath. Codeine cough syrup helped to evacuate all the nasty stuff in my chest.

Thank you, Jesus for the road to recovery. I am humble, and Lord, I can go the rest of my entire life and do okay not to be this sick again, please and thank you!

Lord bless and keep my friends and family safe and free from disease and infection. I pray that You would surround their homes, cars, offices, classes, and places where they visit with a super turbo-charge anti-microbial hedge! Amen!

Step Right Up... You Are About to Witness a Jaw-dropping Spectacular!!!

Today while checking my flylady email, I got the most curious web link. I clicked on it and my jaw-fell, no it collapsed and came out of sock...it took a mop bucket to clean up all the drool. Words cannot describe what I witnessed, except this is perfect for all the type A's living with a home-full of type B's (children, that is)....BRACE yourselves...here is the link...
www.housefairy.org

Though, very cheesy, I let my kids watch it and it worked...very tangible for them to perceive. I. Am. In. Shock. There was no begging, no fussing,no tears my girls pitched in and moved mountains in minutes. (Literally, moved mountains) We left our home for an event and came home to PEACE!!! This has not happen since there were only three of us. Ahhh, relaxation. Thank you, God, for the harmony in our home today. WOW!!!

I told you it was good!

What's Cookin' with Molly...

This evening, I finally was able to cook a meal--we have had a stomach virus in our home since Sunday morning and we have done very little eating.
I have not been to the store in quite some time and wasn't sure what I had to fix...
Molly comes rushing into the kitchen and squeals that she wants to help me cook dinner. I said sure and she proceeded to ask me what was on the list... I said what list... she said the dinner cookin' list... my older girls begged for tacos and (I know I am crazy to think of such food after being vomit free for only 27 hours, but they were quite insistent) so I search in the very tippy-top of my cupboard and found one of those kits.
I explained to Molly that the box had the list and she just couldn't understand what I was talking about, she kept saying no mommy it is in your box of dinner lists... she was very upset with me. Mexican at our house is usually home-made tortillas and seasoned black beans and rice with fresh guacamole and the works. But my pantry was lacking, I didn't have the time to mill flour and make the tortillas or know if people would actually graduate from our diet of Gatorade and saltines--so dinner was very thrown together.
I normally am very whole-food-mostly-organic-food-cooking conscious mama. I cannot tell you the last time we ate a box dinner of any kind, I don't buy processed anything if I can help it, what can I say- I am a hippy at heart. I am not (or don't think I am) the preachy T-total-er about it. I just want to give my family the best I can. So, anyway, I sat Molly down and explained to her that sometimes you can buy dinner in a box and you just add extra stuff to it. She wasn't quite sure but agreed that she still wanted to help.
So, I started naming off things we'd need-- 'sprinkle cheese', sour cream, salsa, lettuce, you get the drift and she was back on the wagon eagerly fetching stuff from the fridge. I just thought it was funny how she thought I was from a different planet when I told her that dinner was from a box.
She did not touch anything except beans, our blue corn tortilla chips and the sprinkles. She said the ground turkey was to stingy on her tongue.
Oh well, I guess she is a whole-food snob.

IT'S GIRLS NIGHT IN AT OUR HOUSE!!!

Well, Mike is hard at work selling vitamins and supplements at the store and we are at home celebrating the hygiene that I have been putting off for a couple of days now! But the girls have no clue, as far as they are concerned we are at the spa and the cinema simultaneously--my plan is to trim the nails and scrub the toes, you know the whole works. That said I am off, another thing they are not planning that I am--they will be in bed by 9:00 and they WILL love that (because I say so).

Sweet dreams to my sweet girls. These nights will be hard to come by when you grow up a bit--mom won't always hang the moon in your eyes, but I cherish that I have that hat for now and will always remember when you get too big for your boots. Huggle your snuggles and kisses for your lipses.

A memory of this moment, trapped for all time.

Do you ever feel out of the loop?

Opened a few emails last night and I got kind-of sad. All my friends are living life and it seems to just pass land-o-lindsey by...I'll explain, our home used to be the hang out, everyone stopped (usually for food or a couch) but I felt so connected to people, the people, the ones that you love and they love you back (like the one's that tell you a giant booger is hanging out of your nose or the ones that personally scrape the lipstick off your teeth with their fingernails, you know who they are). They all quit coming by to chat, coming by because they smelled food or noticed that I was unloading new groceries, or cause my front door was open and my precious baby(ies) were sprawled against the glass like starfish against a rock. I am not, well not totally, insecure--but I loved that role, the house everybody crashed at...everybody always feels welcome and comfy here. Maybe it happened as our family grew or because we moved, I just know that I wasn't as free to get out and it was so nice that people stopped by and landed here for awhile. If you are one of those old people or the of the newer variety (people who have more recently made my life a little happier), just wave as you pass and come by when you can slow down. I love you all.

P.S. We now have at least 12 hours of live entertainment and offer no cover charge, but you have to be here by 7:30PM or you'll miss it. It is lots of comedy, little drama with moments of tragedy!

I almost forgot the funniest thing happened today!!!

It was about 9:40 this morning and I was running seriously late--late is not so funny but normal. I had Julianna and Molly as well as two of my girlfriends kids, and WE HAD TO GOOOOO! It was freezing cold and raining and the ground out back where I park was and still is 2 inches deep, I lectured everyone on the importance of staying on the sidewalk and the driveway and be quick but be CAREFUL...I had everyone loaded and ran back in to get a forgotten lunchbox... that is when it happened. I slipped in the muddy, slick and ever so COLD mud. Yeah, I should listen and follow my own instructions. I fell on my behind and had mud and freezing water to my underwear, all over my coat, down my thick socks and in my warm shoes, up my back, yuck--this is not what I was thinking at the time though, I immediately jumped up took inventory as to who could have witnessed my stupidity. (Hoping that I managed to make this accident unscathed by anyone else's knowledge) I did laugh, as I ran into the house shower and change in less than 2 min. I was back out in record time and we were on our way. I am still trying to get warm!!!

Cinnamon Rolls for Babysitting! Heck Yes!!!

So my sister babysat for me, umm...last week sometime, I think...anyway, she babysat for a pan of my cinnamon rolls. This is a real budget saver!
Yesterday, I finally got around to making them, (I know I'm a slacker), so moments before Mike took me on a date I finished them up and left them to cool, I gave a different babysitter the instructions that the girls could split one and she could have one. When we got home at 10:00 there was only half a pan left (we were gone about 4 hours, and we left 24 cinnamon rolls-5 were left)!!! I guess she was very hungry--This is the reason my sister prefers to be paid in baked goods (Actually, I think it is the cream cheese icing). I woke up today and found myself back at square one. I made two dozen more and sent one to her at her work, and took the others to our dinner date tonight my pans came home empty! That's four dozen cinnamon rolls gone in less than 24 hours. I am going to be on the treadmill forever tomorrow. (I only ate 1 1/2, though.)
If anyone else would like some of my rolls the first pan will be on the house each thereafter is negotiable by time spent watching my girls. Thanks and I hope you liked them, Lulu.

Convenience Should Never Be the Issue

I was given the best gift on Saturday. My husband, who is amazing, scored some free tickets to the Augusta Futurity and planned on taking the girls for the day. I was so excited--I was going to get shoo out all the excessive dust-bunnies without help.
First, we had a very quick visit to pay as a family. I had made arrangements to (per Julianna's demanding request) visit our friend Diane to pray for a miracle and to bring her some cookies. Julianna, who is gifted with compassion and the most beautiful faith, knew these two things would do the trick for our dying friend. Upon entering Diane's room, we experienced the peace of Jesus in the most real and profound way. Diane lay there weak listening to her sister-in-law reading about the woman at the well, Diane was content and peaceful soaking up the words. It was enough. I can't remember the last time I had that kind of contentment just to lay and soak up the Word of God. She was beautiful. We were left with her for a little while and we prayed over her and the girls got to love on her, it was truly beautiful. Mike and the girls made their way out after hugs and kisses and I offered to stay awhile longer. I just couldn't leave. Her earthly body was obviously in a state of failure, but her spirit was so strong and confident--I just wanted to soak it up. I had the pleasure of reading the bible to her for a while, she was too weak to speak much, but occasionally she would beam with joy, mutter "amen", "thank-you, Jesus",or squeeze my hand ever so slightly. My sister lay dying and yet she was infectious and contagious with the peace and joy of the Lord! She stirred and I asked her if she was in any pain and her response was "no, thank God!".What a testament to the Lord.
I was given the opportunity to tell her that I love her and that God loved her, as I said these words she just smiled. I was given a priceless gift. Our friend died last night at about 11:30. Thank-you, Jesus for giving me the chance to say good-bye. Dishes, laundry, and dust-bunnies can wait--Don't put off for tomorrow what can be done today.
I ask all who read this to pray ceaselessly for her daughter, Marki, she is in state of brokenness and feeling quite abandoned. Please pray that God's endless mercy would be revealed to her in a very tangible way. And if you seek deeper faith--pray to have a heart like Diane's.
I pray that everyone who reads this would be motivated as much as I am, to seek the Lord through his word, his works and would grow content in His Presence.
Thank-you, Jesus for my friend. Thank-you for giving her to us, she was a true gift and thank-you for taking care of Marki, I know that you are big enough to handle this--give us the faith to believe that You will reveal Your Glory in perfect time. Amen.
"Let everything that has breath praise the Lord"

And the Lightbulb Burns Bright(er)

This morning on the way to school...

Emma: Mom, I am soooo glad I am in First Grade and not in Kindergarten!

Me: Yeah, why is that Emma? You had fun last year.

Emma: In kindergarten, you think with your head down and in first grade you start thinking with your head up.

Me: Of course.

(Duh, mom--Why didn't I think of that?)

The Tooth Fairy has the Flu

My five-year-old unexpectedly lost her tooth on Wednesday. We are still not quite sure what brought it all on, she went from having no wiggle to hanging by a thread overnight. (I wonder if she might have banged her chin/mouth at church Sunday, cause that is when she noticed that it was loose.) Anyway, it just fell out on Wednesday morning. Well, being the family skeptic, she wasn't sure about having the tooth fairy anywhere near her pillow- so she opted out that evening.

The next night it was on, after much debate, she decided that since Mike and I know the fairy very well- that it must be okay. (and besides there is money involved)

Well, the tooth fairy got very tired and forgot...oops! Friday morning rolled around, Julianna was up with the sun 5:45 screaming,"Mommy, the tooth fairy forgot, she didn't leave me anything!!!!!"

This was the first time I recall ever lying to my child on purpose. I said in a very sleepy yet compassionate voice,"Oh yeah, daddy said that the tooth fairy called him in the middle of the night and she was so very sorry but she had a fever and she couldn't make it out last night."

Julianna's response: "Poor, little thing, I hope her mama is fixin' her some soup. We should pray for her."

Guilt hit me! I lied to her to save my behind. But it worked. What is the lesser of the two evils-1) the tooth fairy forgot about you kid, or 2) the tooth fairy has the flu? I have decided that my very sensitive girl could grasp the latter and not feel left out, rejected or not worth-while. Tough call, but I am sticking to my story and hopefully she will feel protected in the end.

Lord, Help this to be a faith builder.

Another anecdote to liven the history of us.

A Miracle is Needed

A dear family friend, who has been battling cancer for a few years, has just been put in hospice care. I have been so very encouraged by her. She has claimed the Lords healing, I just pray that His healing wouldn't take her from us here on earth.
I battle with a rare lymphatic disease and complain often. She calls me, encourages me, sends me notes and she prays for me. She is dying and she faithfully prays for me. Who am I, to deserve such a friend? I have just realized, in this very moment, that I have little faith. My friend is dying, her days are numbered....and she lives like the Lord has a million more for her and He does, I am just praying that there might be many more here on earth. I am so selfish and ungrateful for the gift she is and will always be. In my ungratefulness, Lord give her a miracle here, I beg you.
In my own battle, I have allowed myself to live in fear of the number of days that I have left (a worthless thought). I choose now to let the Lord be in charge! I plan on living life here for God's glory! I will choose to let the Lord determine how many days I have and be grateful for those He puts in my path. How can He heal me when I am so resistant?
I will choose to give my husband and children the best I can muster. I will choose to smile more because I am so very loved by God--I have the most incredible family and friends. I choose to accept the grace that the Lord gives me. I will try to be joyful and not complain. I will steward the relationships I have to the best of my ability. I want people to see Jesus in me, no, I want them to feel Jesus when around me. These are the traits that I've experience in the presence of my friend, she is faithful and holy.
I am a daughter of the King! I know that He hears me and I know His comfort is at hand. I will etch this in my heart until my days on earth are no more. I want my girls to know this TRUTH as it is part of their being--my friend helped me realize this. I thank you Jesus for her and pray your blessing on her. Heal her, and heal me as you see fit. Show us Your glory in this.
Her life in a nutshell is summarized by this scripture, 'let everything that has breath praise the LORD!'.

Ahhh...Peace and Tranquility...NOT

It is Sunday afternoon, I am just processing the idea that everyone will be gone for 3 hours, that's 180 minutes! Mike is taking Emma on a date to see a movie, Julianna and Molly are on their way to play at their cousins and I, well, I am home all alone!!! What to do? I could clean some, nah. Read my book, maybe. Or watch a movie and be a bum for a couple hours. Some one pinch me, I must be dreaming!
I am all snuggled up, pillows just right, diet coke in arms reach and what do I hear...a waterfall? No, it must be the TV. But it is not stopping. I hop up to investigate. It isn't raining outside, not the bathroom. OH NO!!!! As I enter the hall, very warm water is oozing from the kitchen I step in just in time to witness spinach and carrots and celery and sweet potato skins and what is that, yuck- it is remnants of fish shooting from the sink drains and water is ceaselessly flowing from under the sink and dishwasher. But that is not the waterfall sound...NO not the laundry room, too. I am too afraid to look, but I have to. Where is my knight in shining armor when I need him? God, PLEASE STOP THIS NOW. I turn the corner and water is shooting up the back flow hooky-water-drains-from-the-washer-pipe thingy, yes, its carrots and celery and sweet potato skins and fish--up the wall behind the very full washer and all the cabinets. (Good thing I had a load of towels there to catch the bulk of the water.)
So, after all this, our plumber who was not answering his phone, Mike left his phone here and I am left to fix the problem. I rolled up my sleeves, turned the appropriate appliances off. Then, I undid the pipe under the sink and got rid of the clog there and sealed all the holes up, stood on top of the counter above the sink and I started plunging with all my Might and gurgle, gurgle, spat, gurgle... I DID IT!!! THE CLOG WAS FLUSHED THROUGH.
Now, (Monday late morning) I am still cleaning all the walls, floors, appliances, 11 gazillion pieces of Tupperware that were affected by the massive falls in my home--Who needs Niagara? I had more strength than I knew. I even did this task without saying anything unrighteous and without breaking a nail! I mentioned to my husband that I did save him a pretty heavy purse and maybe I should go shopping.

So much for a peaceful and relaxing afternoon, no lazy days here!

P.S. I think I would have made McGuyver (sp?) proud! though, as amazing my feat I did not use a stick of gum, paperclips or duct tape. Oh, well.
Happy Monday. Tomorrow will be even more great than today, I can feel it.

Everyone is back in school and preschool, it is now time for me to get on board! I am excited to get back in the groove, but wanting to want to start is sooooo hard.

So, I had a CAT scan yesterday, and am anxiously awaiting the results--I may have to go the weekend before I know how much they have grown. My chickadees are the best comfort and great prayer warriors.
So, aside from everything tasting like metal and cold beverages feeling boiling in my mouth (I know,it's weird), I am fine. The best thing yesterday was that the nurse found a vein without any tissue excavation--no bruises this time. This is a very good thing.

When I left the hospital, I forgot that it was produce coop day, I was dreading that chore. I guess the anxiety of my morning exhausted me a little. But God allowed everything to go peacefully and the kids got some much needed outside playtime while I sorted fruits and veggies. (It has been rainy or soggy because of the rain for several days now which has left them with cabin fever.) Watching them run and play happily was a tremendous blessing, a picture I will replace the "we're stuck in this house and movies, crafts, and dolls are no longer fun" grumpies they were being lifted from. It was nice. I wish we could have a camera and voice recorder permanently implanted in our brains. My camera is very dead, dropped and rolled over with a stroller at the zoo 2weeks after the warranty expired, bummer. A new one is on my wish list.

Wow, now I am rambling along--more later.

Happy New Years

I am so excited about becoming a blogger! I wanted to begin more than a year ago, but at that time I was a full-time wife, mom and student. But because of plans that God lay before me, I am finding that I now have a different perspective on the time I am given. Blogging allows for my life and memories to be neatly tucked away without the open invitation my prayer journal and personal notebook offer to the vast assortment of washable markers and a certain three year old that can be found in every room of my home. (What can I say we have several budding artist here, all no taller than 4'). And, of course, "We only color on PAPER", as Molly Grace would say. Only because being three years old she hears it more than once daily. In fact, this evening I had to pry a pink marker out of her sleeping hand. I think she would sharpy herself pink if I'd let her.
This is our last day of vacation, boo hoo. Tomorrow, I will face the nagging of my alarm and pray that His mercies will adhere, as I attempt to guide my little chicks to truth (peacefully and in a timely manner). It is getting very late, so I will post again soon.
So Happy New Year! I pray the Lord will bless you with good HEALTH and endless mercy as you draw nearer to Him.