Labels: Weekend Reflection
This is a photo of my favorite boy standing in front of the High Falls at Rock City. He thought the water was amazing, and you could even walk across the top of the falls on a stone bridge (barely visible in this photo).
This second shot was taken at Disneyland last October. My best girl's favorite attraction was the puddle park in the California Adventure section. She played in the water for at least thirty minutes. She was so wet that her denim shorts kept falling down, and her shoes weren't dry for at least 48 hours!
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Happy Saturday, and happy hunting! For more Photo Hunters, click here.
Labels: My Favorite Boy, Photography
Oreo Delight
Crush package of Oreos and set small portion aside to sprinkle on top. Mix crushed Oreos with can of sweetened condensed milk. Spread into the bottom of a 9x13 pan. Make pudding according to directions. Let the pudding set; then pour over Oreo mixture. Spread Cool-Whip over pudding. Sprinkle remaining Oreo crumbs over the top. Chill and serve.
Delicious!
For more great recipes, visit Overwhelmed with Joy!
Labels: Recipes
I mentioned in this post, that I am afraid of being alone at night. I don't know why I have this fear, but I remember having it even as a teenager. Obviously, this fear does not mesh well with my current situation. Years ago, when my husband first started travelling (in the beginning it was sporadically), we had no children. I would often go spend the night with a friend rather than stay in my home alone. Baby number one came, and I still managed to pack up our stuff and stay with a friend or go to Grandma's for the evening.
This situation worked fine because my husband's trips were usually one-nighters, and packing for one child isn't that difficult. Around the time baby #2 appeared on the scene, however, the travelling increased. The trips were often longer than one night and more frequent; lugging everything I needed for two children was increasingly difficult.
Let me tell you that I have come along way. I have not overcome my fear completely, but I no longer spend the majority of the nighttime hours lying paralyzed in my bed and hearing every possible noise. How has it gotten better? I believe it has gotten better for three reasons. I would like to share these reasons because I believe that they can be generally applied to many of life's difficulties.
First, I simply had to face my fear and walk (or sleep) through it. In my case, I really had no other choice. Hubby had to go, and I had to be the grown-up. I just made up my mind that the kids and I would stay home, and I would make it through the nights.
The second help in overcoming my fear was reading my Bible. Specifically, I made a chain-reference on the topic of fear. I looked up verses in my Bible that helped me to remember that God is in control and that I can rest in Him. In the back of my Bible, I wrote the word FEAR. Under that, I listed the first verse in my chain. It looks like this.
I continued this chain for about 20 verses. Before going to bed each night, I read these verses to remind myself that I did not need to fear. No matter what happened, I needed to understand that God is in control; He will be with me. (As a side note, you can make these chains for any topic; they are truly helpful.)
The third part of this process has been prayer. I basically prayed myself to sleep each night, praising God for the fact that He is in control and asking Him to help me overcome my fear. Then, when I would wake up during the night, I would pray again and say some of the verses to myself. This would calm me and help me to go back to sleep.
Over the past two and a half years, my nights alone have changed dramatically. I still read my Bible and pray before going to bed, and I sometimes pray during the night as well. However, on most nights, I go to bed and sleep soundly until morning (unless my darling daughter wakes me up). We still occasionally go visit Grandma, but it is more to have company and fun than to alleviate my fears. I am so thankful that God is helping me to overcome my fear, and I sometimes wonder if God providentially put this season of travel in my life so I would be forced to learn to rely on Him.
I share this at the risk of sounding psychotic (during the day I can get myself together quite nicely, so most people who casually know me would be surprised at the level of my nighttime fears). However, I know, from speaking with friends, that many females share this fear. And, whether this is your fear or not, I hope you can glean something from my journey. You can face your challenges through prayer and with the help of God's word. The change may not be immediate, but it will come. I am still growing in my faith, and I know that God will continue to help me. I am so thankful!
God is our refuge and strength, and ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, thought its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. Psalm 46:1-3
Labels: Life Lessons, Thankful Thursday
For more ideas, visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer!
Labels: Works-for-Me Wednesday
3 Things I am scared of:
1. Being home alone at night
2. Snakes
3. Tornado outbreaks that occur during the night
3 Things that Make me Laugh:
1. Children
2. Funny movies
3. Lots of girlfriends hanging out together
3 Things I Love:
1. God
2. My family
3. My friends
3 Things I Hate:
1. Cleaning bathrooms
2. Cleaning the kitchen
3. Cleaning all the other rooms
3 Things I Don’t Understand:
1. People speaking in languages other than English (I wish I was bilingual!)
2. Calculus
3. Why people are obsessed with celebrities like Paris Hilton
3 Things On My Desk:
1. Photographs
2. Phone
3. Books
3 Things I am Doing Right Now:
1. Typing
2. Thinking
3. Yawning
3 Things I Want To Do Before I Die:
1. Grow Old
2. See my children grow to be adults who love and serve God
3. Travel
3 Things I Can Do:
1. Talk
2. Plan
3. Navigate
3 Things I Can’t Do:
1. Sew
2. Garden
3. Anything artistic
3 Things You Should Listen To:
1. The Word of God
2. That little voice inside yourself
3. Friends/Family
3 Things You Should Never Listen To:
1. Those who try to tear you down
2. The voices of the Teletubbies
3. Rap music
3 Things I’d Like To Learn:
1. How to play the piano well
2. How to sew my own window treatments
3. How to get my daughter to quit waking during the night
3 Favorite Foods:
1. Pizza
2. Cheeseburgers
3. Chocolate
3 Shows I Watched As A Kid:
1. Little House on the Prairie
2. The Facts of Life
3. The Brady Bunch
Feel free to play along! Let me know if you do this on your blog. I would love to read it!
Grisham uses his abilities as a fiction writer to make the story readable and fascinating. I believe these characteristics are necessary for a nonfiction work in which the reader already knows the outcome. Grisham also uses his background as a lawyer to convey meaningful aspects of the investigations, trials, and appeals throughout the text.
While I appreciated the comprehensive and well-researched narrative, I did feel that some of facts in the book were needlessly repetitive. Additionally, several murder cases that occurred around the same time as Williamson's were investigated throughout the book because they were mishandled by the same police officers and prosecutors. I understood the author's desire to establish a pattern of negligence on the part of the investigators and law enforcement agencies, but these extraneous details were often cumbersome. Overall, I am glad I read the book, and I believe it broadened my understanding of how easy it is for cases to be mishandled in our judicial system.
Most of the people in the town of Ada presumed Ron and his accused co-conspirator, Dennis Fritz, guilty simply because the good guys proclaimed them to be. Even when the DNA evidence exonerated Ron and Dennis, many in the town continued to believe them guilty and treated them as such. As I reflected on this, I connected with the viewpoint of the townspeople. I have the same habit of assuming guilt. When I read about people arrested and charged with crimes, I often jump to the conclusion that they are guilty. Why would they be charged if they are innocent? Surely the police have ample evidence to prove their guilt, otherwise they would not be in custody.
Thankfully, reading this book caused me to think twice about my judgmental tendencies. If nothing else, I learned that not all the good guys believe in justice for all. While I do not know that the police and prosecutors in the Williamson case purposely set out to convict an innocent man (perhaps they truly believed he was guilty), they neglected their responsibilities when they refused to investigate other suspects, suppressed evidence, and used false testimonies in the trials. Even if they believed that these tactics were helping to lock up guilty men, they blatantly violated the principles upon which our judicial system stands. Additionally, by refusing to fully investigate the crime, they allowed the real killer to evade prosecution for 20 years.
After reading this account, I believe I will be less inclined to immediately assume guilt. I am confident that most of our law enforcement agencies are serving our country well. However, people make mistakes, and people sometimes allow pride to hinder their ability to serve. In this great country, where all are innocent until proven guilty, we should be sure that we are protecting our citizens by tirelessly searching for evidence that convicts beyond a reasonable doubt; and we should expect our law enforcement agencies to rise to these standards.
Labels: Books
This was a wonderful, but tiring week. For the first half of the week, the kids and I were in California at my parents' house. We had a wonderful visit with them; the kids loved the special attention that only grandparents can give.
Wednesday, after a long day of travelling, I was happy to land in my bed! No matter how wonderful the trip, your own bed is always a welcome sight.
The kids hadn't seen Dad much in the last two weeks, so you can imagine the joy around here when they found out he planned to stay home on Thursday and Friday. He had to participate in a few conference calls; but mostly, he could play! FUN! My favorite boy loves his Mom, but Dad is the KING when it comes to playing baseball, basketball, football, and watching the Sweet Sixteen.
Dad also scored points with me by stripping the yucky, old caulk from our shower and replacing it (he did this while we were gone). Coming home to a mildew-free shower is nice! He also served as babysitter while I spent Friday afternoon having my hair highlighted. I have decided that if I ever have Oprah's money, I will pay someone to wash and dry my hair every day. Nothing beats sitting in a chair and relaxing while someone else does the work!
Overall, our week was about family. Whether we were visiting family far away or hanging out right here at home, it was a blessing to enjoy the time together. I am so thankful for my family!
Have a wonderful weekend!
Updated to Add: White Blankie made it home this afternoon! Hooray!
Labels: Weekend Reflection
We're home from California. We had a relatively smooth trip back and forth considering I was travelling alone with two preschoolers. The good news is that I did manage to arrive home with both children intact. The bad news is that I left White Blankie, my best girl's most precious possession, at Grammy and Papa's house. NOT GOOD! Of course, I purposely left it out of the suitcases so we would have access to it in the car. Unfortunately, I never put it in the car! We have only had two brief meltdowns over the absence of White Blankie. She understands where it is, and she wants to go get it right now! I guess it didn't sink in that it took 8-9 hours of travel time to go to Grammy's. Thankfully, White Blankie is on the way to Tennessee by way of the USPS. Hopefully, it will be home again by Saturday!
The kids and I had a wonderful time visiting Grammy and Papa (my parents). I will share some of the highlights. When we arrived last Thursday evening, the kids were already asleep. We put them to bed immediately. On Friday morning (very early since my kids don't adjust well to time changes), Grammy showed my best girl a collection of necklaces. HUGE HIT! These necklaces received a great deal of attention all week.
Papa and my favorite boy spent a good deal of time in the backyard playing baseball. My favorite boy says he beat Papa 31-0. I am wondering about the rules and fairness of this game. Also, Grammy and Papa have a Little Tykes bouncy "castle" that they inflate when the grand kids visit. The kids jumped and bounced all weekend!
The week was fun for everyone! We love you Grammy and Papa! Now...off to do the laundry!
Labels: Family and Friends
I will admit that I am an avid reader, and I read with or without a challenge. However, I do need to broaden my reading horizons. I mostly read fiction. I hesitate to call everything I read fluff, but most of the books I enjoy are easy reads. I look forward to reading as a way to unwind and relax, so I usually choose books that will enable this. For the Spring Reading Thing, I am hoping to tackle a few nonfiction titles as well some fiction selections that I would not choose otherwise. I will also include some that are easier reads just because I want to!
Nonfiction:
I am beginning the challenge with four nonfiction books on my list. I have been planning to read the first two for quite some time; the third is one I saw recently on a blog. My father, an American military buff, recommended 1776. I probably would not choose to read this, but because I am attempting to broaden my horizons, I am going to give it a try!
Fiction:
Seemingly, I am one of the few who has not read Jan Karon. Because I have seen her Mitford series mentioned by so many bloggers, I am including her in my list. I am already reading the Love Comes Softly and Mark of the Lion series, so my list includes books from those as well. I also plan to read the lists of other participants, and I may add to this when I see other books I want to read.
Books I Plan to Reread:
I don't often reread books, but I plan to reread two during the challenge. I read both of these books several years ago. I remember enjoying The Posionwood Bible immensely, but I can't remember much about it. Additionally, The Double Bind, one of my fiction selections, includes references to The Great Gatsby. I plan to reread Gatsby before reading The Double Bind.
Poisonwood Bible by Barbara KingsolverGreat Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Bible Study:
Read-Aloud with My Favorite Boy (age 5):
Read-Aloud with My Best Girl (age 2):
With my daughter, I plan to read various picture books and poems for at least 15 minutes a day.
Books Added after Beginning the Challenge:
Labels: Books, Children's Books
Labels: Works-for-Me Wednesday
Labels: Family and Friends
Today is the final day of the Read-to-Me challenge. This has been a wonderful month for us, and I am thankful we had the opportunity to participate. Jennifer posed some questions on her blog for those of us who participated; here are my responses.
How did the mission help you read more?
With each of my two children, I faced very different circumstances. I was already reading at least 15-30 minutes a day with my two year old, but I wasn't reading at all with my five year old (he spends a lot of time reading on his own). With my daughter, I maintained this amount of time and simply made some purposeful book selections during the month; for my son, the challenge helped me to return to something I should have been doing already. Overall, we successfully met our goal of 15 minutes with each child a day (there were a couple of days we didn't, but some days we read much more than that).
What were the changes you made in order to do this?
For my best girl, I made a list of picture books I wanted to share with her. I selected several of the books based on the recommendations given in the Read-Aloud Handbook, but some were just books I thought she would enjoy. I requested the titles from the library, and we read them along with favorites from our own collection at home. With my favorite boy, it was simply a matter of making time to read with him. On some days, we read before bed. On other days we found time while his sister was napping or when we found ourselves waiting in the car. Additionally, I read poetry at lunch. This was something they both enjoyed.
How were your and/or your children's attitudes affected?
Because my favorite boy enjoyed reading alone, I knew he would be hesitant at first. After a couple of days, however, the stories captured his attention. He now finds the books and brings them to me to read!
What are your plans going forward for family reading?
My favorite boy and I have quite a few books left on our Read-to-Me list. We are going to continue with those, and then keep right on reading! The challenge has helped us develop a wonderful habit.
What are some of the books you discovered and enjoyed?
My son's favorite books have been the three books in the My Father's Dragon trilogy. These novels about a young boy and a baby dragon have shorter chapters and beautiful illustrations (lithographs). My son enjoys that the hero is a young boy, and the imaginative tales are so fun! This week, my daughter's favorite book was Silly Sally by Audrey Wood. This rhyming book is truly silly, and we have read it many times. Over the past month, I have recommended several other books she has enjoyed. If you are interested, I am including the links for my previous posts.
Initial Challenge Post
Week One Summary
Week Two Summary
Week Three Summary
Thanks so much to Jennifer for hosting this challenge. Our family has enjoyed it so much, and we plan to continue with the good habits we have developed. If you would like to read what others have accomplished during this challenge, head on over to Snapshot this week!
Labels: Children's Books
I first saw this book meme at Snapshot, and I thought I would play along. If you enjoy it, use it on your blog. Let me know if you do, I would enjoy reading your answers as well!
Hardback or trade paperback or mass market paperback?
I prefer trade paperback. If a book is special, I like having a hardback copy, but paperbacks are less cumbersome.
Amazon or brick and mortar?
Almost every book I buy comes from Amazon. I love browsing in my pajamas, and I also appreciate the reviews from other readers.
Barnes & Noble or Borders?
I honestly don't go to bookstores much (see my Amazon answer), but my favorite bookstore in my area is a wonderful store called Davis-Kidd Booksellers. It is beautiful, and I could linger for hours!
Bookmark or dogear?
I use a bookmark. Until a few weeks ago, I was using whatever piece of paper was on hand. Now I have a very nice bookmark made by my friend Amberly.
Alphabetize by author or alphabetize by title or random?
I usually group by size and subject.
Keep, throw away, or sell?
I only buy books I want to keep. I am a library girl.
Keep dustjacket or toss it?
I keep it.
Read with dustjacket or remove it?
Books from the library usually have the dustjackets taped on, so I have to leave them alone.
Short story or novel?
Novel.
Short story collection (short stories by the same author) or anthology (short stories by a different author?
I don't read short stories often, but in college I preferred collections by the same author.
Harry Potter or Lemony Snicket?
I don't know. I am waiting until my son is a little older so we can read Harry Potter together. I have not read Lemony Snicket.
Stop reading when tired or at chapter breaks?
I try to make it to the end of a chapter.
“It was a dark and stormy night” or “Once upon a time”?
Once Upon a Time, but either is fine if the story is worth reading.
Buy or Borrow?
I borrow from the library. If I truly love a book, I buy it. Children's books are an exception. I have a huge collection of children's books, and I am much more likely to buy them. I guess I feel with children's books, I read them many times so it is worth the purchase.
New or used?
Because I am a library girl, most books I read are used. However, I have, on occasion, been the first to get a book from the library. There is an element of fun knowing you are the first to read the book!
Buying choice: book reviews, recommendation or browse?
I usually choose books based on recommendations from a friend, blog, TV show, etc...
Tidy ending or cliffhanger?
I like tidy endings. With cliffhangers, I dwell on the ending for days.
Morning reading, afternoon reading or nighttime reading?
I read after the kids have gone to bed.
Standalone or series?
Either.
Favorite series?
The series I most recently enjoyed was the Chronicles of the Kings series by Lynn Austin.
Favorite books read last year?
I did not keep a list last year (I am this year), so it is difficult for me to remember. However I did enjoy the Chronicles of the Kings series, the Lineage of Grace series by Francine Rivers, Shepherding a Child's Heart, and The Thirteenth Tale (I guess this was technically in January). I know there were more that I really enjoyed, but I can't remember at the moment!
Favorite books of all time?
Some of my favorite books of all time are children's books, such as Charlotte's Web, Ramona the Pest, and Where the Wild Things Are. I think that books loved as a child truly stay with you, and then you get to love them all over again once you have children!
Labels: Books
My parents have internet access, so I will probably post some while I am there. Have a great Thursday!
Labels: Family and Friends
For more Works-for-Me Wednesday ideas, visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer!
Labels: Works-for-Me Wednesday
Labels: Family and Friends
1. I was born in Columbus, Ohio in March, 1974, to wonderful parents.
2. I lived there for a few months, and then we moved to Fredericksburg, VA.
3. My one sibling, a younger brother, was born in Fredericksburg.
4. When I was almost 4, we moved to middle Tennessee.
5. I grew up in a neighborhood where kids could play outside all day without much supervision.
6. We didn't come home until we heard our mothers call us.
7. My second grade teacher read all the Ramona books aloud to my class.
8. This same teacher made all her students a bean bag frog for their birthdays.
9. I still have mine.
10. I disliked my first and third grade teachers. I don't think they liked kids.
11. I grew up and taught first and third grade.
12. I tried to respond to my students in such a way that they would never question how I felt about children.
13. My friend Becky and I rode our bikes to the pool every day during the summer following third grade.
14. I always had to be home by 3:00 to watch Little House on the Prairie.
15. I still like to watch Little House.
16. My first experience in a musical production was as an orphan in the community theater's production of Oliver.
17. Throughout middle school and high school, I participated in many more musicals.
18. During breaks from rehearsals for high school musicals, my friends and I would walk across the street to Captain D's and ask for cups full of those crispies that are on the plate with the fish.
19. Captain D's gave them to us free.
20. I am amazed that there was a time when I could eat 100% grease and not gain a pound.
21. In my small town, the cool thing to do was to cruise back and forth from the mall to Sonic.
22. We were really cool, and we had big bangs.
23. For a time, I wanted to be Jane Pauley or a lawyer because I thought I being a teacher was not prestigious enough.
24. I am glad I came to my senses.
25. I graduated from high school in 1992.
26. I then went to Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee.
27. We had very strict rules regarding dress code, curfew, behavior, etc...
28. I loved it.
29. In 1994, we had an ice storm, and half of Nashville was without power.
30. My dorm was the only building on campus with electricity because we had a generator.
31. About 20 of my friends ended up in my dorm room.
32. We spent the day watching movies and performing show tunes.
33. You know you are in college when you can turn going without power for 48 hours into fun.
34. I met my husband during my junior year.
35. He played on the baseball team.
36. A couple of weeks after our first date, he was hit in the jaw by a pitch and had to have his mouth wired shut.
37. All the guys on the baseball team gave me a hard time every time they saw me because my future husband and I couldn't kiss.
38. This was really funny because we hadn't kissed yet.
39. My last semester, I did my student teaching in two Metro Nashville public schools.
40. While I was being observed by my professor, a bird flew into a window.
41. Obviously, chaos ensued.
42. Thankfully, I managed to calm the kids down, and my professor thought it was hilarious.
43. I graduated from college in May, 1996.
44. My husband and I married on July 27, 1996.
45. I love the gooey scrapings that are left over when cake is served.
46. At my wedding, I had the servers save this stuff for me.
47. I took this yummy treat with me when we left the reception and ate it out of a Cool-Whip container on the way to our honeymoon.
48. I hadn't eaten anything else all day, so this food selection was not the greatest.
49. I woke up the morning after with a horribly upset stomach.
50. I am sure my husband was thrilled that his new bride spent a good while in the bathroom because she ate too much icing.
51. We spent our honeymoon in Kiawah, South Carolina.
52. Three weeks later, I started my first teaching job at the school with the intrusive bird.
53. Having 28 third graders call on you all day really helps you get used to your new last name.
54. After my first year of teaching, I spent the next three summers working on my master's in education at Middle Tennessee State University.
55. During the school year, I taught third grade.
56. After three years of teaching, I moved to first grade.
57. First graders are wonderful; they love to learn!
58. After one year of teaching first grade, I changed to a position called Reading Recovery.
59. This required nine months of extensive training in teaching struggling readers.
60. Reading Recovery was the best professional training I ever had.
61. I spent a year and a half in Reading Recovery.
62. I left one month before my son was born.
63. My favorite boy was born January 22, 2002.
64. I was induced because the doctor believed I would deliver quickly.
65. Two years and nine months later, I found out my doctor was really smart.
66. I had a difficult time nursing my son, but I hung in there for six months.
67. I still felt guilty when I quit, but my son didn't mind at all.
68. My son woke up every two hours for eight months.
69. I really wasn't sad when my son turned one because I was glad the tough first year was over.
70. I have spent every minute since then wanting time to slow down.
71. I tell my son every night that he is my favorite boy in the whole wide world.
72. I never get tired of seeing my favorite boy smile.
73. When I was pregnant with my best girl, my blood pressure dropped suddenly, and I passed out in the fitness room at the Y.
74. This was very, very embarrassing.
75. My best girl was born on October 26, 2004.
76. I delivered her in the garage (remember #64 and #65?).
77. No, I did not do this on purpose.
78. Nursing went much better with my best girl.
79. Unfortunately, her sleeping habits were worse than her brother's.
80. We made it through the no sleep zone, and now both my kids are pretty good sleepers.
81. I love my best girl's laugh.
82. I love when my best girl wakes up in the morning and sings in her crib.
83. Now that my kids are sleeping, I spend more time reading.
84. I feel like I must have something to read every time I sit down.
85. I do try to eat dinner with my family without reading.
86. I like to eat.
87. Because of this, I try to exercise 5 times a week.
88. My best friend is named Amberly.
89. I truly do not know what I would do without her friendship.
90. I loved teaching, but I do not plan to go back.
91. I hope to continue caring for my husband, children and home.
92. I would also like to spend more time volunteering and helping others.
93. To satisfy my teaching desires, I teach the first and second grade Bible class at church.
94. I feel that I am a constant teacher for my children as well.
95. I am a Christian.
96. I am content.
97. I am joyful.
98. I am a work in progress.
99. I am an optimist.
100. I am so very thankful to God for the many, many blessings in my life.
Labels: Fun
Week three of the Read-to-Me Challenge was fun! My favorite boy and I finished reading My Father's Dragon. We enjoyed it so much that we decided to deviate from our Read-to-Me book list and read Elmer and the Dragon, which is the sequel to My Father's Dragon. These books are shorter novels with great illustrations. The books are very imaginative, and my favorite boy was caught up in the stories from the first chapters. We will finish Elmer and the Dragon today; and we plan to read The Dragons of Blueland, the final book, next . After finishing this series, I plan for us to begin Ramona the Pest. As this was one of my favorite books as a child, I am especially excited to read it.
My best girl and I read Spot Takes a Walk; Are You My Mother?; and Adam, Adam, What Do You See? from our book list along with many books from our collection. By far, my best girl enjoyed Adam, Adam the most. I highly recommend this book. It is written by Bill Martin, author of Brown Bear, Brown Bear; but, as the title suggests, its focus is Bible characters. The book has the same enticing rhythmic pattern as Brown Bear, and my daughter loved it. As the mom, I especially appreciate the simple, effective, and fun way to introduce beloved Bible heroes. The illustrations are wonderful as well.
We are entering our final week of the Read-to-Me challenge. This week will be interesting for us because we are travelling to California on Thursday. However, we plan to take our books along for the trip. Hopefully, they will help us pass the time on the 4 1/2 hour plane ride!
Thanks for hosting this Jennifer!
Labels: Children's Books
Best girl: Dad, will you please go out of here?
Dad: Why?
Best girl: I want to put some pennies in my mouth.
I guess it's obvious that she knows she is breaking the rules!
Labels: My Best Girl, Small Talk
At this class, our focus was teaching our children to honor God in worship. I had been thinking about how our culture views worship, particularly after a post I read at Lifesong, and I was excited about the discussion. We discussed some practical issues about helping our children participate in the worship assembly, but the true lesson was that our children learn to honor God in worship by watching our behavior. We teach our children to honor God by honoring God ourselves. If we enter the worship assembly ready to praise God for who He is, our children will learn to do the same. If we display a reverent fear for the One who created us, our children will follow our example. If we show our love and gratefulness to the God who saved us from our sins, our children will grow to understand this love and gratefulness as well.
Unfortunately, in our culture, we focus more on being entertained, on convenience, and our own preferences. Placing emphasis on our own preferences and desires does not only affect our daily lives, it affects our worship. In the Old Testament, we read that the nation of Israel split into two kingdoms. Solomon's son Rehoboam led the nation of Judah, which was comprised of the tribes of Benjamin and Judah; and Jeroboam led the other ten tribes, which was called the nation of Israel (see 1 Kings 12). Jeroboam did not want his people to return to Jerusalem (in Judah ) to worship, so he set up shrines within the nation of Israel. He also appointed priests, not from the tribe of Levi as God had commanded, but from "all sorts of people" (I Kings 12:31).
I guess you can't blame the people for going along with Jeroboam's plans, right? It really was kind of a hassle to travel all the way to Jerusalem to worship, and why couldn't anyone be a priest? If they had the desire to serve as a priest, let them serve! Surely God would be pleased with what they offered to Him. And, you know, after worshipping God in the same way for many years, it was becoming routine and boring. What was wrong with making worship more exciting?
The problem was that God's word was not honored; and we know, of course, that God was not pleased. God did not desire worship offered out of convenience or based on the preferences of the people. He desired obedience and reverence. God had given His people specific instructions for worshipping Him, and He expected that his instructions would be followed (we only need to read the book of Leviticus to see that God's people were to be separate and holy; the punishments for dishonoring God's instructions were swift and severe - see Leviticus 10:1-3).
By the time of Amos, God revealed the following message to the people of Israel:
I hate, I despise your religious feasts; I cannot stand your assemblies. Even though you bring me burnt offerings and grain offerings, I will not accept them, I will have no regard for them. Away with the noise of your songs! I will not listen to the music of your harps. But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream! Amos 5:21-24
The people were not honoring God in their worship; they were honoring themselves. They worshipped to please themselves, not to please God who is the only One worthy to be praised.
Through these stories from the Old Testament, we learn who God is. God does not change (Mal. 3:6). We no longer approach God through the blood of goats and bulls, but through the blood of His precious son. However, like the Israelites, we are God's chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God that we may declare His praises (1 Peter 2:9). We should approach our worship to God with the same reverence, holiness and awe that was expected from those chosen people long ago.
God is love. He is merciful and gracious; but He is also the God of wrath, of judgment, and He is a consuming fire. We would do well to remember all the attributes of God, not just the ones that comfort us, when we approach him in our worship. When we worship God obediently and reverently because of who He is and what He has done, we no longer focus on what we like or what we want. We no longer need to be entertained; for we realize that God is seated on His holy throne, allowing us to come into His presence. For that, we should fall our our knees, give thanks, and praise His holy name.
Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are your ways, King of the ages. Who will not fear you, O Lord, and bring glory to your name? For you alone are holy. All nations will come and worship before you, for your righteous acts have been revealed. Rev. 15:3-4
Labels: Life Lessons
Mom: Well, God made Jupiter, so what do you think?
Favorite Boy: I guess God is bigger. God, then Jesus, then Jupiter, right?
Mom: I think that sounds about right. :)
Labels: My Favorite Boy
Thoughts of the soul - shared with compassion -
everlasting trust in a common goal,
always forgiving, ever building, true friends for life.
Loyalty - hearts in communion, mutual union built
on a sympathy, growing together through
whatever - true friends for life.
As sorrow demands that someone would care,
so joy commands that its joy should be shared.
Iron sharpens iron to strength in the end, and so
faithful and true are the wounds of a friend for life -
a patient and caring sanctuary formed as we're sharing strife.
Always protecting - not neglecting - true friends for life.
As water reflects the face of a man, so a man's
heart can be shown by his friend.
And if I am molded by what I love, it's you -
you've taught me lovingly how to be friends for life,
encouraged to be what we should be,
committed to make things right.
Sacred companion take my hand - we'll be friends for life.
by Debby Boone
Throughout my teenage and young adult years, I prayed for the kind of friend that is spoken of this song. God answered my prayer, and now I pray that one day my daughter will have the same blessing in her life. So much greater is the joy, and so much easier are the trials when we have a friend to walk with us along the way!
Labels: Family and Friends
Secondly, I have noticed that bloggers love coffee! So many blogs have coffee as part of the title, or coffee is mentioned immediately after the basic introductions. I guess I knew that coffee was popular, but I am not sure I realized how dear it is to people's hearts (I guess the fact that Starbucks is making millions should have clued me in on that fact). I have heard people say things like espresso and latte, but I have no idea what they mean. Don't get me wrong, I love the smell of coffee; I just have trouble with the taste. However, every girl needs a morning addiction, so I thought I would introduce you to mine.
This is Sun Drop. I drink the diet version, and I LOVE IT! Every morning, as soon as I wake up, I put a can in the freezer. In thirty minutes or so, I have a can of slushy deliciousness! Sun Drop is often compared to Mt. Dew. It is similar when it comes to the caffeine, but let me tell you that Sun Drop tastes so much better! And...I will admit that I drink another after lunch. For the rest of the day, I drink water, so these two cans are my special indulgence (down from the four a day I drank in college).
This very special drink is not available everywhere. Next week, the kids and I will be visiting my parents in California, and I will be packing enough to make it through the trip. As a side note, I have learned to take the plastic bottles when travelling. Apparently, the change in air pressure can damage cans that are packed in suitcases, causing the drinks to leak out onto all of your clothing (not that I know from experience or anything).
So, now you know something about me. Of course, I am not trying to get you to ditch your coffee. I understand that many of you feel it is a part of who you are. While I probably won't run into you at Starbucks, I appreciate your love for your morning beverage, and I hope you can find it in your heart to appreciate mine. And, if you are ever in a convenience store in Tennessee or northern Alabama, you can give my favorite drink a try!
Labels: Fun
This week is the kitchen edition of Works-for-Me Wednesday at Rocks in My Dryer. My tip is nothing profound; I just wanted to share a cooking accessory that I use a lot. It is the Mini-Serving Spatula from Pampered Chef. It is small, narrow, and perfect for serving small portions. I find it especially handy when I need to serve small portions from a 9x13 pan (brownies, for example). I often take it to use at potlucks or get-togethers, and I always make sure it has my name on it so I don't lose it! An added bonus is the price; it is only $4.00! I love this product, and it definitely works-for-me!
Labels: Works-for-Me Wednesday
Conversation #1
Mom: I can't wait to come to your games.
Favorite Boy: Yeah. I hope you will be able to get tickets. If you can't, you won't be able to come.
Conversation #2
Favorite Boy: I can't wait to see the scores from my games in the paper!
Mom: Honey, I don't think they put the scores from the 5 year-old league in the paper (I didn't even tell him that they don't keep score yet).
Conversation #3
Favorite Boy (after looking at his schedule): Wow! I am going to be travelling a lot!
Dad: Son, your games are all at the same field.
Favorite Boy: No, look Dad! We play the Braves, Cardinals, Rockies...
I just love it, and I can't wait to see him in his uniform! I cherish conversations like these! He thinks he is SO BIG; but to his Mom, he will always be my favorite LITTLE boy (I just can't say that out loud)!
Labels: My Favorite Boy, Small Talk
Our second week of the reading challenge was rewarding because my favorite boy and I finished the Wizard of Oz. He truly enjoyed the book, which made it so much fun for me. As a special treat, we began watching the movie after we finished the book. We have seen about half of it (he doesn't really like to sit for 2 hours and watch a movie, so we are watching it in two parts). We spent some time discussing the differences that we have seen between the book and the movie as well. FUN! From our chapter book list, we moved on to My Father's Dragon; and from our picture book list, we read Snow and Owl Moon.
My favorite boy, best girl and I are still reading poems from Read-Aloud Rhymes for the Very Young. I decided to continue with this book because they are enjoying it so much. My best girl and I also enjoyed several books from her picture book list. We read We're Going on a Bear Hunt, Owl Babies, She'll Be Coming Around the Mountain, and No! David. My best girl liked all of these, but Owl Babies has been read many times this week. We read books from our collection as well, including The Mother Goose Word Book, which is currently one of her favorites.
Thanks for hosting this Jennifer! We are having a great time!
Labels: Children's Books
For their children shall not be ignorant
Of their Creator and His plan concerning them.
Blessed are the mothers who love the Word of God;
For their children shall know
Of the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
Blessed are the mothers who love the house of God;
For their children shall enter there with them
In the presence of God.
Blessed are the mothers who love to pray;
For their children shall feel the power of prayer
And many shall find salvation.
Blessed are the mothers who love to fight life's battles
With a strong and steadfast faith in God;
For their children shall know where to find
strength in time of need.
Blessed are mothers who love to sing praises to God;
For their children shall know the joy of being
a child of the king.
Author Unknown
Labels: Life Lessons
My friend Amberly and her three children visited us this week. Abby Grace is almost one year older than my best girl. Because of this, we have been blessed to receive great hand-me-downs from them. I was so happy to see Amberly pull out two bags full of clothes from her van!
Today, I started to look through them. I was thrilled to see a beautiful blue Feltman Bros. dress among several other pretty items. This dress, however, didn't really excite my best girl. She was too busy jumping up and down over the Backyardigans pajamas. She exclaimed, "Look Mom! I can't bweeve it! It's my favorite fing!" Of course, as you can see in the picture, she had to put them on immediately (please excuse the hair, we are trying to let her bangs grow). Thanks Amberly!
Labels: My Best Girl
Let me introduce myself.
I am an almost 33 year old wife and mother. I enjoy reading, exercising, scrapbooking, and, of course, blogging.
I have been married for 10 1/2 years. I met my husband in college where he played on the baseball team and I was Miss Social. In our 10 years of marriage, he has helped me to see the benefits of not being involved in activities ALL! THE! TIME!, and I have helped him learned to smile and say hello in public. :)
We have two wonderful children. My favorite boy is five, and my best girl is two. Without a doubt, one of the most interesting things that has ever happened to me is the unbelievable birth of my best girl. You can read about that here.
In my pre-child life, I was a teacher. During my six years of experience, I taught third grade, first grade, and Reading Recovery. I loved teaching, but I gladly gave it up for the days I now spend as a stay-at-home mom. Feel free to view my typical day here.
Most importantly, I am Christian. I was raised in a Christian home, and I made my own decision to submit my life to Christ when I was 13. I certainly have not always lived up to that decision, but I am thankful to have a Christian husband, a wonderful church family, and friends (including an especially dear friend) who help me in my walk each day.
1 small can crushed pineapple, drained
3/4 c. finely chopped pecans
1 Tbsp. chopped green pepper
1 tsp. chopped onion
1 tsp. seasoned salt
Best served with Ritz, but Wheat Thins work well also. Tips: I have found it easier to roll in the nuts after letting it sit in the fridge for a little while. Also, if you wrap it well, this freezes beautifully.
Be sure to visit more parties at 5 Minutes for Mom!
Welcome to A Day in My Life! This is such a great idea, and I thank Owlhaven for hosting it. I am including pictures of a typical day at the Baseballs and Bows household with a running commentary.
I am sure our day is fairly typical. I wake up about nine to breakfast in bed while a maid cleans my house. I then somehow manage to get a manicure, visit with my personal trainer, read, and shop while our nanny plays with the kids. Most of our meals are prepared by our chef, so I don't do much cooking.
HA!
So...this is our day. Lest you think it was too picturesque, I did not include shots of the coat rack falling off the wall, our mailbox after our neighbor ran into it, or my clothes and the kitchen floor which were doused with water when the sprayer thingy at my sink got stuck and sprayed water every time I turned on the faucet. However, I am sure you can picture each of those images! Thanks for sharing our day with us!
Labels: Blogging, Family and Friends, My Best Girl, My Favorite Boy
