Goggles & grace

Today

2011-10-11T19:16:00.001-04:00

Science lessons lay scattered across the kitchen table.

Gilgamesh sat unopened on the bed.

Library books rested neatly on the desk.

And math problems remained unsolved on the chalkboard.

Cause when the sun shines brightly in October,

the outdoor thermometer tops out at 73 degrees (yet again!),

and rain rests squarely in tomorrow's forecast...

what's a gal to do??

Scrap the schoolwork (for the time being, at least :) and head outdoors!

It seemed to be a popular choice :)

Thirteen

2011-10-10T05:45:00.006-04:00

Today, my baby is thirteen.

My baby. Thirteen. Today.

And I couldn't be more amazed... more joy-filled... more thank-full for him

and the extraordinary young man God is fashioning him to be.

Thank you, heavenly Father, for your good, good gifts.

For thirteen bless-ed years.

For this precious, precious boy.

And for the privilege-- the honor-- of being his mom.

Happy, happy birthday, Bub!!

{I love you with all of my heart}

The end of an era

2011-10-06T21:10:00.003-04:00

Tonight, just before tucking Big Man in to bed, he politely informed me that it's time to switch up his bedtime routine. Instead of praying AND singing together, we now only need to pray. The song is no longer needed..."because I'm big now."

"Ok, sure honey." Smile. Hug. Shiver.

Because my little boy is growing up, and that's not always an easy pill to swallow...

"There is a time for everything,

and a season for every activity under the heavens..."

Ecclesiastes 3:1

Creamy White Chili

2011-10-05T06:20:00.005-04:00

I love autumn-- the changing colors, the cooler temperatures, the falling leaves...

the crunch, crunch, crunch underfoot.

And I love soup. And stew. And all things hearty.

Like this delicious new find-- a wonderfully savory complement to fall!

Creamy White Chili (thanks to Mel's Kitchen Cafe)

*serves 6

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch cubes

1 medium onion, chopped

1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder or 2 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced

1 tablespoon oil

2 cans (15 1/2 oz each) Great Northern Beans, rinsed and drained

1 can (14 1/2 oz) chicken broth

2 cans (4 oz each) chopped green chilies

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon pepper

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 cup sour cream

1/2 cup whipping cream

fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

In a large saucepan, saute chicken, onion, and garlic powder in oil until chicken is no longer pink. Add beans, broth, chilies, and seasonings, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer (uncovered) for 30 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in sour cream and whipping cream. Garnish with cilantro if desired. Serve immediately. It's especially good with tortilla chips.

OR... In to a medium round slow cooker, place 1 pound chicken breasts, either fresh or frozen (do not worry about cubing them). Add the chopped onion, garlic powder, beans, chilies, and all of the spices, but do not add the sour cream or whipping cream yet! Also, reduce the chicken broth to 12 oz (about 1 1/2 cups) and pour it over the other ingredients. Stir the mixture to incorporate the dry spices and cook on low for 5-7 hours (longer if chicken is frozen). Remove chicken to a cutting board and shred it to bite-size pieces; then return it to the crock. In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream and whipping cream; then add mixture to crock and mix well. Let the chili cook until heated through. And serve... with chips!

And as one additional note or suggestion-- these chips, which I buy at Whole Foods, are the best we've tasted.

I can hardly keep them on the shelf!

1000 Gifts: In the woods

2011-10-03T05:35:00.010-04:00

This past weekend, we journeyed to Mom's and Dad's house for an early fall get-away, an algebra session with Pops, some tree-house building with some special friends, an early birthday celebration for Grandmom, and a few fantastic romps through the woods.

And it was a gift. All of it... from top to bottom, inside and out.

A precious, precious gift.

Thank you, Lord...

(#1124 -- 1145)

long walks with Grandmom through the woods

on lazy fall afternoons

pockets full of acorns

deer tracks

baby mushrooms

and fallen trees

the colors of the forest floor

the fox's hidden den

tucked-away hide-aways

their joy in discovering His gifts

the neighbor's friendly dog and Noh-man's love of all things furry

showers of leaves

a search for hickories

a turtle in the garden...

and desperate waiting for him to emerge

baby pigs at the farm next door

and extra-stale popcorn to feed them

old tractors

with pumpkins on top

their love of the woods

and the time to spend therein

the beauty and splendor of creation

"In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth...

and [He] saw that it was good."

Genesis 1

and the list goes on...

It's fall...

2011-09-29T06:09:00.007-04:00

and the flowers are still blooming.

The bugs are still hopping,

the bees are still buzzing,

and the tomatoes are still growing.

Hopefully, I'll eek a few more off the vine before the weather snaps and all is done.

The windows are wide open and the cooler breezes are filtering through...

an absolute delight!

I love, love, love this time of year. Sometimes I wish fall would stay for 12 months on end.

But then I'd miss the snows of winter. And the new life of spring time.

And the heat of the sun in summer.

Yes, change is good.

Still, fall is my favorite.

And I'm so very glad it's here!

1000 Gifts: Seven

2011-09-26T07:10:00.019-04:00

On Saturday, my smallest musketeer turned seven.

Seven.

How did THAT happen?

And... where DOES the time go???

Still, fly by it does, so today I add another page to my journal.

As I remember. And laugh. And smile. And rejoice.

Because my little boy turned seven.

And because God is so very, very good.

1107

This boy

1108

... and seven phenomenal years with him

1109

His spunk. His zest. His strength. His heart.

1110

My. Big. Man.

1111

His birthday party at home... just the way he wanted

1112

... with superheroes -- a Lego Ninjago cake, Transformers plates & napkins, and a Batman

pinata

1113

Celebration!

1114

And a number 7 candle on top.

1115

This time to rejoice

1116

With friends & family gathered round (more then a wee bit blurry, but gathered round nonetheless :)

1117

Legos. Legos. Legos. And countless other thoughtful gifts.

1118

And clearing after the rain for outdoor games

1119

Simplicity and fun

1120

And a big tree with a branch at just the right height

1121

For a little pinata fun

1122

... with special people

1123

And the privilege... the honor... the gift of parenthood.

How could I ask for more?

"Behold, children are a gift of the LORD,

The fruit of the womb is a reward.

Like arrows in the hand of a warrior,

So are the children of one's youth.

How blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them..."

Psalm 127: 3-5

and the list goes on...

Bittersweet

2011-09-17T22:55:00.019-04:00

Today, we took down the crib and put it away... probably for the very last time. Lollipop was thrilled to finally have a new big girl bed, but for me, it was an emotional transaction. I slept in that bed many, many years ago, as did my younger brother... and all four of my kiddos have found sweet, sweet rest therein. Putting it away sorta feels like the end of an era.

As for what tomorrow will bring, I certainly don't know. Surely the Lord has prepared new adventures for our horizon. With exciting possibilities and thrilling dreams and special plans filled with wild imaginations.

But still my heart longs for these days to remain. For my littles to stay little. For their squeaky voices to stay squeaky. For their tiny shoes to stay tiny. For their tender hearts to stay here... at home...with me.

Still, I know that's not the Lord's design.

And His designs-- His ways-- are always best.

So in them I find peace. And rest. And hope.

And then I thank Almighty God for the wonderful gift of motherhood.

Three words

2011-09-13T07:15:00.024-04:00

Boot Camp stinks.

Words like--

Suicide planks.

Jump rope for ANOTHER minute.

And... close grip push-ups-- one. more. set.

-- have absolutely no place in my vocabulary.

Of course, I intend to go back tomorrow... but until then, I think we'll just plan to school from the sofa :)

1000 Gifts: September sunshine

2011-09-12T06:15:00.016-04:00

Another week of counting.

Another week of heaven-sent gifts.

Thank you, Lord!

1083

Aunt Francie's Labor Day pool party

1084

Chris's family

1085

an entire afternoon... to swim and jump and sit and eat

1085

the opportunity to catch up and plan ahead... plus the anticipation of what comes next

1086

synchronized cannonballs... sort of

1087

a moment to breathe

1088

all 14 cousins gathered for the annual family photo

1089

bigger every year

1090

this backyard pool

1091

a new school year

1092

new goals, new subjects, new possibilities... and a new washing machine!

1093

online classes with a Biblical worldview

1094

Tammy Duby

1095

and algebra with Pops!

1096

lessons learned when life.is.tough.

1097

perseverance and determined stick-to-it-iveness

1098

understanding

1099

four days of rain, and then... the sun!

1100

skateboards... built for two ??

1101

a pink sleeveless top, pink corduroy pants, and fancy (pink!) hand-me-down church shoes...

an outfit of her very own design

1102

buddies

1103

neighborhood walks

1104

our neighbor's ever-growing pumpkins

1105

the end of the season to savor

1106

September

"The LORD lives! Praise be to my Rock!

Exalted be God my Savior!

Psalm 18:46

and the list goes on...

Around here

2011-09-08T07:10:00.007-04:00

Or... more aptly titled-- What Next? Because the last few days have been... challenging. Interesting. Tricky. And... amusing. Here's why.

So school. Yes, school. It comes around every September, but for some reason or other, it completely caught me by surprise this go round. A crazily busy summer surely didn't help. Nor did my decision to read only for pleasure these past few months (note to self: a little school prep-work truly is necessary before the calendar flips to September. Now I know :). So currently I find myself volumes deep in the Great Books, Ancient Egypt, latin declensions, and algebra 1... all of which are more than my overly tired brain can handle on any given day. I think I'm in deep. Very, very deep.

Costco. I {LOVE} that place. Love, love, love, love, love. But really. Christmas decorations? On the shelves? Smack dab in the middle of the warehouse? Seriously??? And why?????

And that's all I have to say about that.

The family room carpet. Beautifully clean (thank you, Stanley Steamer). For one night. Because sometime while we slept, the dog got sick. In three different spots. Ugh.

The laundry room. Probably my least favorite room in my house. Now... surely my least favorite. Why? Because five days ago my washing machine died. In mid-cycle. Right before the first rinse. Soaking wet sheets and towels had to be wrung dry (Chris handled that one splendidly :), the water had to be emptied from the basin (again... Chris), and those sopping wet linens-- I had to dry them in the dryer so that I can re-wash them tomorrow when my new machine arrives. Hallelujah! Still, anyone care to wager a guess at how many pounds of laundry a family of six can generate in the span of 6 days (in addition to the bits & pieces that came home dirty from the beach)? I'll tell you this much... it's a lot.

And finally, I now have this beauty-- tall, proud and black-- dominating a

portion of the boys' bedroom.

Uncle Donnie offered it to them a couple weeks ago; I was told they were inheriting a punching bag. You know, something easily stashed in the corner or even under the bed if necessary. Evidently, we experienced a minor miscommunication. I'm thinking you won't find anything even remotely similar in the Pottery Barn catalog.

Big Man later created this sign and attached it to the top of the "Big Black Beast"

...so that I might find its presence a little more appealing :)

How can I argue with that??!

And that's about it. For now.

Tomorrow may find me back on Everything-is-fine-and-dandy Street. Or it may not.

Either way, I'm reminded that I have a choice:

Whether I soar through the day with the wind at my back OR struggle just to keep my head above water as the hard times roll, I can grumble. Or I can praise. I can complain. Or I can give thanks.

I must choose... because I simply cannot do both.

I must choose.

And remember...

that even when things don't seem to work out quite right,

ALL IS GRACE.

All.

Every little tidbit. Every single breath.

ALL.

Thank you, Father.

Tonight

2011-09-06T06:50:00.010-04:00

At 8 pm.

Ann Voskamp & Lysa TerKeurst.

Their live webcast on the power, the honor, the privilege of saying Yes to God.

Meet me there, won't you?!

1000 Gifts: North Myrtle Beach

2011-09-05T07:11:00.007-04:00

For the past then years, we've been wrapping up our summer with a trip down south.

The big red bow on many summers full of gifts.

A gift-- from Gramoggie's heart, poured out on us.

... summer's grand finale.

(1055-1082)

Her love of the ocean

and her desire~ that her grandkids may bask in its warmth... every single year

beach houses and over-the-dune wanderings

early morning expeditions

pockets

outdoor showers

sandy carpets, sandy sheets, sand under foot... sand, sand, sand

Hurricane Irene's distant pass... this special beach spared from disaster

big cousin-for-little cousin manicures

an afternoon game of kickball... family style

Poppa's safe arrival

I {heart} you

wide open spaces.. as far as the eye can see

broken bits of shells, itty-bitty shark's teeth, & hunts along the beach for treasures!

a dining room table, big enough for all of us

full bellies and happy hearts

The Clean Plate Club

"Aunt Heather, can I hold your hand?"

a new guitar and starter lessons with Poppa

their grandfather's generosity!

seventeen pelicans, hovering in a row

feathery white clouds, painted across the sky

the song of the seagull... urgent, persistent, & strong

tiny ocean crabs and sand dollars scooped up whole

boy eyes of wonder

life!

His grace... lavished so richly

and His fingerprints over it all... fingerprints marked with LOVE

"I will give thanks to you, LORD, with all my heart;

I will tell of all your wonderful deeds."

Psalm 9:1

and the list goes on...

1000 Gifts: Cape May

2011-08-22T22:15:00.004-04:00

Cape May, New Jersey... my mama's old stompin' grounds... a very favorite beach...

and five days together.

Adding to my journal, I count His gifts...

and give thanks for the many, many extravagances He offers... every single day.

Thank you, Lord...

For your beautiful creation.

For special times and special people.

For treasures untold,

And the gift of your love.

(#1030-1054)

The sunken ship

Photos in front of it and many, many guesses... when will it sink out of sight?

A climb on the rocks

A jump in the sea

Together

Early morning walks

The quiet surf

Dolphin-play

And the cry of the gulls

Sunrise

Waves for splashing

Sand for digging

Toes for burying

Shells for collecting

Buckets for filling

Shovels for scooping

Kites for flying

Hands for holding

Cousins

Grandparents

Siblings

And dad

Family traditions

Heritage

Abundance

"Now, our God, we give you thanks,

and praise your glorious name."

1 Chronicles 29:13

and the list goes on...

The last 10 days

2011-08-21T07:40:00.035-04:00

Ten days ago, we left northern Virigina and headed north on a whirlwind tour of the Mid-Atlantic region. Our first stop-- Penn State University & the Eastern Zone Championship. Noh-man was competing again, and he was looking forward to a crazy few days with his swimmer-pals as we looked forward to a few tasty treats in State College. The weather was gorgeous, the ice cream (at the Creamery... more on that later) was delicious, and the company (Poppa came in from SD!) was the best. The meet itself... not so much. But I snapped a few shots of the big event... and then we moved on :)

After Zones, we were off to Lancaster, PA for my cousin's Sunday afternoon wedding AND... tuxedoes. The boys have been desperate to dress "in style" at every wedding we've attended in recent years, and this go round, as Junior Groomsmen, their dream finally came true. They looked smashing (I think :), and they loved every single second of if!

And lastly-- our efforts at capturing a family photo... just the six of us.

Let me sum up that experience this way-- as of right now, I think I'm officially adopting my sister-in-love's philosophy. As long as all bodies are present, consider the photo a success. Agreeable, happy faces-- all smiling at the camera at the same time-- are an unrealistic expectation :)

It's always an adventure!

Anyhoo... next stop-- the beach.

But I'll save that for tomorrow :)

The dog days of summer

2011-08-09T11:20:00.014-04:00

On some days, it's just too hot to go outside.

So on those days, they choose to stay inside.

On the sofa.

So they can do absolutely nothing.

'Cause that's how they roll...

Oh, the life :)

1000 Gifts: The Championship

2011-08-02T08:30:00.026-04:00

Truly, my cup overflows.

And I am undone.

God is SO good... He leaves me nearly speechless.

But not quite :)

"Great is Thy faithfulness," Lord, unto me.

The 2011 Long Course Age Group Championship

Christiansburg, VA

July 28-31

(#995-1029)

The opportunity for all three boys to compete in their championship meet

Cheering for Big Man via the telephone, as he swam in Charlottesville while Bub & Noh-man swam in Christiansburg

Big Man's new title-- the Backstroke Champion (according to his coach :) after winning the League title on Friday

A superb team of families... of coaches... and swimmers

FAST (the team)

For Noh-man... racing hair. Or perhaps-- Uncle Dave hair? Either way... a lack of hair.

And Uncle Dave, who drove from South Carolina to cheer for the boys

And Aunt Wilma, who held down the fort at home so that Dave could come to the meet

The YMCA for a little pre-race fun

And time together to ease the stress.

God's peace amidst the storm. His presence during the fight.

Prayers for His best... whatever that may be

And His faithfulness, His blessing, His goodness... even when things didn't turn out as we hoped

Comfort and certainty... the assurance... that He has something better...

because His ways are always higher, His thoughts are always better, and His plans are always greater than anything we could ever imagine on our own

Three fighting spirits

Three champion-sized hearts

And my sister-in-love's reminder-- Man looks at the outer appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.

Just in time.

Philippians 4:13

"No fear!"

Crazy hard lessons learned, especially for Chris and me

And their courage untold, their determination... magnified, & more character demonstrated in a span of two minutes than most adults display in a lifetime.

Goals

And the opprotunity to pursue them.

Competing with the best in the state... and coming out at the top

God's hand of deliverance-- like David and Goliath

Answered prayers

A coach... from another team... who cared

The prayers of loved ones, the encouragement of others, and the little kindnesses offered throughout the day that display His love in mighty, mighty ways

Brother cheering for brother, praying for brother, hurting for brother, persevering for brother... LOVING brother more then himself

Sacrifice

And the privilege of parenting such fine young men

Life... shared.

God's grace.

"Therefore I will praise you, LORD, among the nations;

I will sing praises of your name."

2 Samuel 22:50

and the list goes on...

Observations from the beach

2011-07-27T08:15:00.002-04:00

*** The beach (any beach!) truly is one of my favorite destinations on earth. Elegance and poise, however, will never be my companions there. Traipsing across a sun-baked dune... with a folding chair and tote bag in hand... in the 105 degree heat... will never a pretty picture make. Let-me-just-make-it-to-the-hard-packed-sand-without-falling-smack-on-my-face is more often the manner in which I trudge.

*** As much as I LOVE watching my children delight in the sand and the pounding surf, the opportunity to sit in a chair... under an umbrella... with a single book... for hours on end... is truly a heavenly treat.

*** The sound of the ocean's roar is one of the most glorious in all of creation.

*** While on the surface, time alone seems like a wonderful thing... nothing really compares to sharing LIFE with the ones you love.

*** People-watching surely is an enlightening experience... one that generally begs more questions than it answers and one that inevitably establishes for me-- over and over again-- how very blessed I am and how very much I love MY wild & crazy crew.

*** Ice-cold Dr. Pepper... on the blistering sand... is surely a gift from heaven's hand.

*** Renting an umbrella for $10/day is worth every single penny... and then some.

*** With regard to actually getting to the beach-- it really is important to jot down the directions in their entirety. Skipping even just one little step may add significant travel time to your day. Just sayin'.

*** Watching a stingray flop back to the sea after being cut loose from a fisherman's line is truly a breath-taking experience.

*** Porpoises off the coast-- who frolic and play... surely as God intended-- bring a smile to my face... every single time.

*** There's no doubt in my mind-- the splendor of creation demands a Creator, and how blessed we are that He's a creative One!!

"In the beginning,

God

created the heavens and the earth...

and [He] saw that it was good."

Genesis 1

1000 Gift: Majesty

2011-07-25T04:50:00.021-04:00

Sometimes, I get overwhelmed. Sometimes, I find myself at a loss for words. And sometimes, I just want to run and hide. Because my circumstances seem too great to bear. But, every single time, His love searches me out. And quietly beckons. And softly reminds... that HE who is in me is greater than he who is in the world. And that He who began a good work in me WILL BE faithful to complete it. And that His mercies truly are new every morning as His faithfulness reaches to the skies. And I-- completely undeserving of it all-- am compelled... NOT to run and hide... but to give thanks. For His grace knows no limits and His love, no bounds.

O the deep, deep love of Jesus, vast, unmeasured, boundless, free!

Rolling as a mighty ocean in its fullness over me!

Underneath me, all around me, is the current of Thy love

Leading onward, leading homeward to Thy glorious rest above!

~S. Trevor Francis 1875

Last Thursday, my husband gave me a gift... a wonderfully wonderful gift.

Three nights at the beach.

In a lovely Bed & Breakfast.

All by myself.

Because He loves me.

"Men are never duly touched and impressed with a conviction of their insignificance,

until they have contrasted themselves with the majesty of God."

~ R.C. Sproul

(#968 - 994)

the generosity and thoughtfulness of my wonderfully wonderful husband

and his amazing act of love

3 days and 3 nights at the beach

with sandy toes

an 8-foot umbrella

text messages

shampoo

and pelicans

air conditioning and ceiling fans

cedar shake houses with bright white trim

gardens and flowerpots... filled to overflowing

brilliant color!

lifeguards on duty

and 5:00-- when the lifeguards go OFF duty & all the dog lovers race home...

only to return with their pups in tow, eager for a frolic in the sea

canine paradise

The Robe by Lloyd C. Douglas

the hint of coconut-scented suntan lotion wafting on the breeze

ice cold Dr. Pepper and a brand new pack of gum

undisturbed sleep (plus a nap in the sun)

peace

the line where water meets sky... where earth meets heaven

the sun on the horizon

and the stillness of the dawn

time to reflect and refocus... rest and recharge

and a Sunday morning treat-- a worship service held right there on. the. beach.

a longing for home

the majesty of His creation

and the vastness of His love

"I pray that you... may have power, together with all the saints,

to grasp how wide and long

and high and deep is the love of Christ."

Ephesians 3:17-19

and the list goes on...

Together again

2011-04-27T06:30:00.003-04:00

Oh, happy day!

Thursday morning observations

2011-04-21T08:20:00.007-04:00

Last Saturday, Chris took all four kiddos to the mountains to visit with Grandmom and Pops (and to do a little work on a shared rental property-- they were *excellent* helpers!). I stayed home with Fergie, who is still not allowed to play or romp or otherwise actively socialize with his favorite companions, Mosby, Beau, and Sam. On Monday morning then, Chris returned with Lollipop in tow, but our three musketeers chose to spend their spring break with G-mom and Pops. Work, play, work, play-- their to-do lists were filled to overflowing with possibilities. And, while they were terribly excited about the laundry-list of possibilities, this ever-so-tired momma had equally exciting plans of her own (sleep, for instance, sat at the very top of MY spring break to-do list :). I mean, don't get me wrong-- my children rock my world, but every now and again, a different pace is a welcome sort-of thing.

Well, they've been gone now for 5 days, and I've got to tell you-- their absence has left quite the mark on this camp. For instance:

~ a house minus one wild pup (Mosby has been lounging at Camp Grandmom ever since Ferg started his heartworm treatment) and 3 energetic boys makes for one incredibly QUIET homestead. Serene, even. Calm. Still. Slow.

~ the laundry basket... the bane of my existence... is empty. Has been empty. And will remain empty for two more days. Ah, blessed relief!

~ I've shopped for groceries ONCE and only once, and we've had plenty to eat. We've run out of nothing, and we've even had left-overs. Crazy, I know :)

~ the normal night time routine has been transformed now that there's only one kiddo to tuck under the covers before calling it a day myself. Case in point: on Monday, Chris and I managed to get Lolli down by 7:15, watch a movie-- in its entirety--AND climb in to bed ourselves by 9:45. Clearly, the norm in old town VA departed some time long ago!

~ I have not picked up a single wet swimsuit from the kitchen or laundry room floor this entire week. Nor have I washed a single beach towel. In addition, all goggles are present and accounted for... another striking oddity around this joint.

~ there have been absolutely NO contests/arguments/debates/"discussions" regarding TV time for days. Lollipop has had the set to herself, she's chosen her show (she's loving the Leap Frog series on Netflix right now), and she's enjoyed her 30 mins or so in relative peace. Yes, peace.

Still... this current arrangement, I'm concluding, is not my preferred cuppa tea. Yes, a day or two on my own is quite the delight, but my chillins are... my chillins!! They're my sanity (in an otherwise insane world), they're my motivation, they're my inspiration to press on, to run the race, to obey... to seek Christ in all things so that others-- notably THEM!-- might see Him in me. And without them here, I'm just not the same.

Today, as Lollipop and I strolled the block alone, she randomly announced, "I miss my brothers, Momma! I miss my brothers..."

"So do I, honey, so do I..."

And that's all I could muster. Because even though the work load has been less, and even though the house has been blissfully calm, I miss those wild & crazy young men. The Lord truly does fill the heart and bless the soul and redeem the lost through relationship. And even though possible, relationship via the distance is not quite the same as relationship HERE. Now. Across the table. In the yard. Up the stairs. By my side. In my arms.

Oh, how I truly, truly appreciate the extreme generosity and thoughtfulness and love my parents pour out on those young'uns of mine, but I've got to tell you... I can't wait 'til they come home!

1000 Gifts: April abundance

2011-04-18T07:24:00.005-04:00

"Sing to the LORD a new song;

Sing to the LORD, all the earth.
Sing to the LORD, praise His name;
Proclaim His salvation day after day.
Declare His glory among the nations,
His marvelous deeds among the peoples.
For great is the LORD ans most worthy of praise..."

Psalm 96: 1-4a

Filled to overflowing, I add another page to my journal
as I thank Him for the gifts of His hand~

941
another week... another grace-filled week

942
marked by the colors of His hand

943
red (my favorite :)

944
with pink (hers :)

945
and a splash of iridescence to top it all off

946
{Bub}, you need to make the wise choice. ~Big Man

947

little ears that listen... that hear... that learn

948

a hand-me-down typewriter and hours of letter-writing fun

949

"Mommy, I have to type-write!" ~Lollipop

950

her finished product... "It says, 'Obey your parents, Mom.' "

951

{Big Man}, we can wear shorts today!!!

952

spring-like temperatures... WARMTH finally here

953

A picnic dinner... on the patio. And the John Deere trike.

954

and boys that never grow too big for such things

955

bumping in to a friend I haven't seen since high school... in the Costco parking lot

956

and then again on the pool deck after Big Man's swim practice

957

this small, small world

958

freckles

959

"Mommy, it's a beautiful morning!!"

960

a quiet Sunday-- Chris and the kids out of town, enjoying their get-away

961

me at home... the garden to myself

962

his thoughtfulness

963

spring break

964

six-year old curiosity

"Mom, is God taller than (Uncle) Dave?

Because in my red Bible, He's really small.

But in my white Bible, He's MUCH bigger."

965

and the Truth that sets men free

966

Christ's triumphal entry... His Selfless Sacrifice... His LOVE, poured out for me... Victory over the grave

Jesus has overcome and the grave is overwhelmed

The victory is won

He is risen from the dead

And I will rise when He calls my name

No more sorrow, no more pain

I will rise on eagles' wings

Before my God fall on my knees

And rise

I will rise

~Chris Tomlin

967

... grace to rise

"But He was pierced for our transgressions,

He was crushed for our iniquities;

the punishment that brought us peace was on Him,

and by His wounds we are healed."

Isaiah 53:5

and the list continues...

Fergie

2011-04-13T05:51:00.046-04:00

Six weeks ago, Ferguson was diagnosed with heart worms. This was the latest in a long line of ailments since we adopted him a little over a year ago. In fact, the very day we learned of his infection the doctor had suggested that we start visiting a dermatologist in Maryland for a skin condition we have yet to control. Funny, I thought-- I don't have a "relationship" with a dermatologist myself, and here I am... readying myself to embark on a journey with one... an entire state away... for my dog!

The skin-related frustrations were to be put on hold, however, as a much more critically sinister, life-threatening condition now waged war against my pup. Heart worms, contracted by the bite of an infected mosquito, lead to certain death in a dog when left untreated. Ferg had been receiving preventative meds since he'd been in our home, though, so this new diagnosis completely threw me (us) for a loop. The skinny of it all-- from the time of infection, it takes 6 months for a blood test to give a positive result. Clearly, Ferg was infected before we adopted him, which truly comes as no surprise given the litany of struggles that poor pup has had to face due to the neglect and cruelty of his previous owner. Now, a year later, the fight was on.

When Ferg started treatment one month ago, Mosby-- the gray ghost/my other constant companion-- went to live, temporarily, at the Ritz Carlton for pups (a.k.a. Camp Grandmom). He's been abiding in the lap of luxury with Mom's & Dad's dogs for 4 weeks now, but boy oh boy do I miss that boy! Fergie, on the other hand, has been at home... quiet and lonely, bored (I think) and restrained. He misses his pal. He misses his walks. He misses his rough and tumble playtime in the backyard. Because while undergoing treatment, he can't wrestle or romp or exert himself in any strenuous manner.... in any way that might raise his heart rate beyond a resting level. And let me just state for the record-- with a two and a half year old pup, that's no easy task.

Enter last night. At 7: 30 I drove to the vet's office to pick him up after his second round of treatment. This dose had been twice as strong as the first one a month ago, and let me tell you... I was NOT prepared for what I saw. When the technician brought him out on his leash, I hardly recognized him. He didn't drag her across the waiting room-- as he normally would. He didn't wag his tail until it nearly wagged off-- as he normally would. He didn't kiss me all over and hop in my lap-- as he normally would. Instead, he simply collapsed at my feet. I noticed the slightest bit of a tail-wag, but that was it. He just collapsed. And rolled over. And emitted the most pathetic little whimper of recognition and delight.

Freakishly mindful of the time four years ago when, Jack, my best furry friend of 11 years, dropped at my feet (after a diagnosis of brain cancer), I struggled to retain my composure. Jack only lived for 3 more days. I wasn't ready to lose another one.

I carried Ferg to the car and laid him gently on the seat, and all the way home he cried. He cried when we pulled into the drive way, and he cried as Noh-man led him through the grass-- tears stinging Noh's eyes just as they were stinging mine. Thankfully, a spot on the sofa with his family gathered round did the trick, and within minutes, Ferg was sleeping soundly for the rest of the night.

Today, he'll surely be much better, and tomorrow even more so I'm sure. The toxins which are coursing through his body will acheive their desired aim, and thankfully, since the doctor caught the heart worms early, Ferg should recover fully. It's just a dicey and frightening ride en route.

In the meantime, I can't help but thank the Lord for this furry ball of tan and white... for the whimpers of delight amidst terrible pain... for the wag of the tail upon seeing his momma... for the hearts of his kiddos, gathered round to love... for the unconditional love he demonstrates every single day... for the lessons learned in the dark, when the way seems long and the way seems hard, and nothing-- absolutely nothing-- is a guarantee.

Because in those moments of frustration and fear and sorrow and pain, I can rejoice... because I DO have a guarantee after all... nothing-- absolutely nothing-- will ever separate me from the love of God in Christ, and while this life is filled with struggles and battles and conflicts I'd rather not wage, the Lord is working in all things, through all things, with all things for His glory and for His purposes. And if the hurdles I face in caring for this 44-pound bundle of energy and fluff get me closer to the finish line, well then amen... bring. them. on.

"For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory

that far outweighs them all."

2 Corinthians 4:17

Edit: At 8:30 this morning, Fergie bounded from his crate... full of enthusiasm, excitement, and strength. God's mercies truly are new every morning!

1000 Gifts: New Beginnings

2011-04-11T06:20:00.013-04:00

It's been a long, cold winter. Gray. Cloudy. Rainy. Even bitter.

But Christ's mercies are new every morning, and this a.m., it's time. Time to bounce back. Time to wipe the dust from my hands. Time to taste and see the goodness of the Lord... His splendor, His majesty, His boundless, limitless love. For me. Every single day.

So today I give thanks.

And I count... one by one... the gifts of His hand.

"O taste and see that the LORD is good;

blessed is the man that trusteth in Him."

Psalm 34:8

919

long winter months... which make the newness of spring all the more lovely

920

daffodils and hyacenths, azaeleas and dogwoods

921

green

922

and yellow

923

and a garden just bursting with life

924

year-round swimming for Big Man and wonderful, wonderful success

925

an award's banquet on Sunday afternoon-- my 3 boys together (plus a little green lady squished in between :)

926

with medals to bring home...

927

Big Man's very first one

928

plus~ a coach's sense of humor... like when he asked Noh-man not too long ago if Chris and I were planning on having more children because our family has been good for the team :)

929

reminders to SLOW DOWN and savor each moment

930

time

931

"Look, Mommy! Precious little grapes!!" ~Lollipop, referring to the flowers (below) in the garden

932

a Saturday outing for the girls...

933

to Bruster's for ice cream. A very, very favorite place... well worth the hour-long drive... especially when there are googly eyes and sprinkles on top :)

934

boys in the woods-- camping with friends

935

homebound... just me and my gal

936

rest

937

"the peace"

938

blue skies

939

and play time OUTSIDE!!!

940

the beauty of SPRING... with my crew.

How could I ask for more??

"The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?

The LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?"

Psalm 27:1

and the list continues...

My 2011 Booklist

2011-01-12T07:20:00.025-05:00

So it's that time of year again. Time to create another list (I LOVE lists!)... time to weigh my options, to pick and choose... time to write and rewrite, scratch and add... time to actually complete a list for a change (it really is a novel concept :).

So this year, I'm making my list a little shorter. I still have a handful of titles from both '09 and '10 that I have yet to read, so they'll naturally flow over in to this one (though I won't bother to list them here). That being said... if anyone has a favorite to recommend... please, please, please pass it along! My reading time is very limited (anyone else feel that way?!), so I don't want to waste a single second of it on less-than-stellar titles. And thanks!

Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy by Eric Metaxas

One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are by Ann Voskamp

Organized Simplicity: The Clutter-Free Approach to Intentional Living by Tsh Oxenreider

Radical: Taking Back Your Faith from the American Dream by David Platt

War of Words: Getting to the Heart of Your Communication Struggles by Paul David Tripp

Sacred Parenting by Gary Thomas

Taste and See: Savoring the Supremacy of God in All of Life by John Piper

Forgotten God by Francis Chan

Her Mother's Hope by Francine Rivers

What the Bible Says about Healthy Living by Rex Russell, M.D.

At Home in Mitford (and the rest of the series... again!) by Jan Karon

Bringing up Girls by James Dobson

Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption by Laura Hillenbrand

Unplanned: The Dramatic True Story of a Former Planned Parenthood Leader's Eye-Opening Journey Across the Life Line by Abby Johnson

The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini

A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini

The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton

Encore Provence by Peter Mayle

God King: A Story in the Days of King Hezekiah by Joanne Williamson

The Eagle of the Ninth by Rosemary Sutcliff

The Ides of April by Mary Ray

A Voice in the Wind (and the rest of the Mark of the Lion series) by Francine Rivers

1000 Gifts: A Sunday ride

2011-01-10T06:16:00.011-05:00

Weeks ago... nay, MONTHS ago... before the leaves started falling from the trees,

and before the frigid temps of winter set in,

and before the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season completely derailed

the bulk of my normal routine,

my littlest two enjoyed a Sunday ride (#918).

But now, as I look back at these photos, I can't help but wonder...

where HAS the time gone??

And why... oh, why... is it passing so quickly?

What I would give to slow. it. down.

So I scroll through again. And again. And again.

And I begin to panic.

Because these days are fleeting

and everything within me rebels against that reality.

Why must it be this way???

But then He whispers. And soothes. And comforts. And reminds.

And I pause. And relax. And breathe. And smile.

Because this is the way He planned it.

And His ways are always best.

And with that peace, I give thanks.

Because truly,

I wouldn't want it any other way.

and the list continues...

1000 Gifts: Looking back

2011-01-05T06:14:00.013-05:00

So, I'm a little late to the punch. It's Wednesday after all, and Multitude Monday generally posts on Monday. Not to mention the fact that it's the 5th of January, and I'm just now getting a few Christmas thoughts online. Yep, I'm running late but hoping beyond hope that it won't be a trend that'll continue for the rest of 2011!!

As for getting back online... it has indeed taken a little longer than I originally thought. Needless to say, getting back in to our northern Virginia groove did not happen overnight. Quite the opposite, in fact. Regaining our momentum, truth be told, is proving to be a gradual sort of thing... an almost, but not quite, slow-as-molasses sort of thing. Because 1) returning to our studies and 2) facing the deadlines that await us... do not appeal to any of us. In any way, shape, or form. At all. Of course, a wonderful Christmas and a fabulous New Year didn't set the stage well for such things. On the contrary, they only made us long for vacation all the more. Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end (or at least so I'm told), so school is resuming and projects are coming due and our life pace is changing once again. Hopefully, it'll slowwwwwww down as rest is a must and sleep-- even better. And everything else... well, it'll fall right back in to place. I hope.

So with that I'll add another page to my journal,

my account of God's goodness and faithfulness and grace... every single day.

This go round, I'm praising Him for Christmas (#917)...

and the birth of our Lord and Savior, 2000 years ago.

"It is good to praise the LORD and music to your name, O Most High,

proclaiming your love in the morning

and your faithfulness at night,

to the music of the ten-stringed lyre and the melody of the harp.

For you make me glad by your deeds, LORD;

I sing for joy at what your hands have done."

Psalm 92: 1-4

Christmas in the woods

with my hubby and my Mom and my Dad and Great Grandma

and my 4 favorite munchkins in all the land~

and peace

rest

redemption

forgiveness

forever

grace

love

life

and

Light

... Jesus Christ

"In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men."

John 1:4

and the list continues...

Our Annapolis tradition

2010-12-23T07:40:00.016-05:00

So I had to hop online one last time before signing off for the Christmas holiday.

Not only am I taking a blogging break; I'm taking a *computer* break...

and oh, how the mere thought sends shivers of excitement down my spine!

Before I do however, I want to share a few more photos from our weekend in Annapolis,

a few from a very favorite spot~

This is Chick & Ruth's.

Our favorite hang-out in downtown Annapolis.

And the home of our annual challenge...

the 6-pound chocolate milkshake.

We guzzled one last year-- my crew, my folks and Chris's as well,

and this year, we vowed to do the same.

Of course, a few in our bunch wanted to tackle TWO 6-pounders,

but alas, we settled for only one. Maybe next year~

Good to the very last drop... I promise!

So should you ever find your way over to this cozy little bayside town,

be sure to hop on in...

and give me a buzz if you do.

One more chocolate milkshake *surely* has my name written all over it :)

**********

See you next year~

and have a merry, merry Christmas!

We certainly have much to celebrate... this time of year and always~

"Arise, shine, for your light has come..."

Isaiah 60:1

1000 Gifts: Coming

2010-12-20T06:45:00.008-05:00

And the angel said unto them,

Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy,

which shall be to all people.

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour,

which is Christ the Lord.

Luke 2:10-11

In anticipation, we wait. And we rejoice. And we delight.

Because the King is coming...

0894

an afternoon for building gingerbread houses (and the many challenges that come with it :)

0895

walls that stand and roofs that don't sag-- even crosses made of pretzel sticks

0896

windows and doorways, shingles and sidewalks... even a marshmallow snowman with an M & M hat

0897

my budding architects

0898

math lessons with candy

0899

and leisurely hours spent with friends; the school books set aside

0900

Handel's Messiah at the Kennedy Center. Glorious... absolutely glorious.

"Hallelujah! for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth.

The kingdom of this world is become the kingdom of our Lord, and of His Christ;

and He shall reign for ever and ever.

King of Kings, and Lord of Lords, Hallelujah!"

0901

the Gospel message... clear and bold... woven throughout that symphonic masterpiece

0902

and the curiosity of my two oldest sons (not to mention the constant pleasure they provide)-- WHY would I want to drive all the way in to the Kennedy Center to see Messiah when... surely... there are plenty of You Tube videos available for free?? (I still don't think they get it :)

0903

the first snow of the season

0904

boots that still fit, an extra pair of snow pants, plenty of mittens, and sleds enough to share

0905

pink noses and rosy cheeks

0906

snowball fights and a peacetime truce

0907

winter

0908

the boldness of my eldest son... who, compelled to make a difference, visited our neighbors and asked for donations to help families in the Dominican Republic... because love(is)action.

0909

(fabulous) potato soup

0910

dinner with friends & laughter around the table... our men en route to the wilderness

0911

3 days of camping (better them than me :) and mounds of gear...

all designed to keep. them. warm.

0912

3 days with Lollipop... girl time galore.

0913

and Christmas... the birth of our Christ and the call to celebrate every. single. day.

0914

the waiting

0915

this time to rejoice!

0916

and the glory of the Lord, revealed...

"Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion!

Shout in triumph, O daughter of Jerusalem!

Behold, your king is coming..."

Zechariah 9:9a

and the list continues...

Merry Christmas!!

The Christmas Meet

2010-12-17T15:40:00.018-05:00

The North Baltimore Aquatic Club's Annual Christmas Invitational

The United States Naval Academy

Annapolis, Maryland

December 10-12, 2010

... a highlight every year!

My littles in the window with Gramoggie~

Hot Fries... the snack food of champions :)

Didn't you know??!

A favorite funny face~

And a favorite Olympian.

Yep, Michael Phelps participated last year.

And this year, he swam again.

Surreal. Utterly surreal.

As for Bub and Noh-man... they were our true champions.

Amazing. Fantastic. And overwhelmingly great.

They swam to beat the band,

they dropped almost a gazillion seconds,

and they finished as the 2nd and 4th place point-earners for their entire team.

Needless to say, their coach was just bursting with pride.

I'll leave you to guess how Chris and I felt (not to mention all 4 grandparents :)

It was an absolute blast and the perfect segueway into our Christmas vacation!

Cereal boxes and hope

2010-12-10T06:30:00.040-05:00

Cereal boxes.

Hope.

Yep, I know what you're thinking~ oh, no... now she's really gone off the deep end!

But I promise you, I haven't. This is really, really cool. And potentially life-changing. I promise.

And it all starts with cereal. And our precious little ones. And their full bellies. And our desire to make a difference.

You see, in Haiti, children are orphaned every single day because their mothers cannot feed them. Because their fathers cannot provide for them. Because life in an orphanage is their ONLY chance for survival. Their only chance...

Can you imagine? Can you imagine releasing your son, your daughter to be raised by

another, simply because you didn't have the means to do so yourself... can you imagine?

I, for one, cannot. And that's why I'm so, so thankful for folks at Compassion International and World Vision who allow us-- we Americans so overwhelmingly rich as compared to the rest of the world-- to step in and bless out of our abundance. Well, here's another wonderful option... and EASY option... if you really want to make a difference. Consider it a Christmas gift to a hurting family, hundreds of miles away.

Here's the deal: when your family reaches the end of its next box of Lucky Charms, don't shred that cardboard. Don't squash it and cram it in to your recycling bin. Just flatten it and set it aside until you save another. And another. And another. And then, when you have a big box packed full of flattened, empty cereal boxes, drop it in the mail. And then pray. Give thanks. Count *your* blessings. And trust the Lord to do the rest.

Because when those cereal boxes reach Haiti, they'll be put to good use. Men and women, as part of the Apparent Project, will use those boxes-- believe it or not-- to make jewelry. Beautiful jewelry. Jewelry that provides enough money for them to raise their own children... in their own homes... with dignity and love and hope.

Simple.

Painless.

And a significant opportunity to change a life.

One cereal box at a time.

Will you join me??

"Then the King will say to those on His right,

'Come, you who are blessed by my Father;

take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.

For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat,

I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink,

I was a stranger and you invited me in,

I needed clothes and you clothed me,

I was sick and you looked after me,

I was in prison and you came to visit me.'

Then the righteous will answer Him,

'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you,

or thirsty and give you something to drink?

When did we see you a stranger and invite you in,

or needing clothes and clothe you?

When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'

The King will reply,

'Truly I tell you,

whatever you did for the least of these

brothers and sisters of mine,

you did for Me.' "

Matthew 25: 34-40

** If anyone who lives in my neck of the woods would like to participate,

I'd be happy to mail your boxes with mine...

just let me know :)

*** For whatever it's worth... I'm also saving other boxes--

ones from our Ritz Crackers, our Triscuits, our Graham Crackers--

that sort of thing.

I figure~ they're colorful, and they're no smaller than a Grape Nuts (cereal) box,

so hopefully they'll be acceptable, as well.

The Hallelujah Chorus... over lunch

2010-12-08T06:15:00.004-05:00

Oh, how I wish I could have been there... what a glorious lunch-time treat, don't you think?!!

1000 Gifts: December joy

2010-12-06T06:25:00.073-05:00

When upon life's billows you are tempest tossed,

When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,

Count your many blessings, name them one by one,

And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

~Johnson Oatman, Jr.

It's funny~ how easy it is to focus on the minutia of the day...

on the momentary "insanity"of the household...

on the seemingly important but oh-so-very-far-from-eternal...

on self.

This past week was a doozy... a doozy, in many ways, of my own making.

How thankful I am now to be on the other side.

Rejoicing in His Light, His Hope, and His Grace.

0865

friends and family who love and encourage and remind me of Truth... who set me straight and wrap me in warmth... who care enough to drag me out of my pit-- to pray me out of my pit!-- and rejoice with me in His goodness on higher ground

0866

Isaiah 55

0867

His everlasting covenant with all who believe

0868

her pink tu tu

0869

his strong legs

0870

their tired little bodies~ they keep chugging for more

0871

until finally... rest

0872

letters written in a foreign hand... with messages of life and hope and love

0873

and return letters en route from our kitchen table to theirs... our simple offering... our chance to make a difference

0874

Compassion International and their willingness, their desire, their success in sharing the love of Jesus

0875

the Advent season

0876

the attic now empty~ its treasures, its goodies... the memories unpacked

0877

little hands and homemade decorations from years gone by

0878

grand smiles of recognition

0879

AND unbelief: "2002! I made this in 2002??!!!"

0880

joy!

0881

potty training success... and those precious 45 seconds she spends-- every single morning-- deciding which pair of panties she'll wear that day

0882

"Pray, Mommy... pray!" ~Lollipop

0883

the eyes of a child

0884

Ann's Jesse Tree devotions... and our time in His Word, first thing each morning~ our countdown to Christ's birth

0885

Christmas tree lights and candle-glow-warmth

0886

cinnamon scented pine cones

0887

homemade cookies

0888

hot apple cider

0889

chicken noodle soup

0890

enough

0891

a Santa hat with Goofy ears-- a souvenir from our Disneyworld vacation, seemingly so very long ago

0892

3 of my favorite little elves

0893

and God's generosity... His abundance... His grace

"I will praise you, Lord my God, with all my heart;

I will glorify your name forever."

Psalm 86:12

and the list continues...

These days I'm struggling...

2010-12-02T06:44:00.037-05:00

Struggling to find that groove again... that pre-holiday routine that actually allowed us to get

our school work done in a timely manner.

Struggling to get my Christmas decorations out of the attic when everything in me screams that it. is. not. time. to. decorate. for Christmas. It's only July after all... isn't it??

Struggling to accept the fact that fall has gone (for all intents & purposes) and the brutal, bone-chilling days of winter are upon us. I soooooo want the 70s (degrees, I mean :) back!

Struggling to keep up with Mt. Laundry... when will some brilliant scientist invent self-washing clothes??

Struggling to keep *healthy* meals on the table when Ramen noodles are such an easy & painless choice :)

Struggling to study my way through evil dictatorships, a Nazi regime, and unending brutality, misery, and suffering. Why, O Lord, why??

Struggling to rejoice in all things... even in *my* (relatively pitiful... as compared to those in the note above) sufferings.

Struggling in the day to day battle of less-of-me and more-of-Him... struggling to die to self.

Struggling to see the good instead of nitpicking on the not-so-pretty; struggling to offer grace at all times~

Struggling to filter the good from the best.

The eternal from the transient.

The holy from the rest.

Struggling.

And yet still... still my God reigns. Still He loves. Still He holds and helps and offers Hope and Light and Grace, even though so incredibly undeserving am I. Still He nudges me on, pressing me towards the Goal, one itty-bitty baby step at a time.

Yes, these past few days have been tough. But the Good News... His love conquers all. And in Him, there's peace. Perfect peace.

I think it's time I stake my claim!

"Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings,

because we know that suffering produces perseverance,

perseverance, character,

and character, hope.

And hope does not put us to shame,

because God's love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit,

who has been given to us."

Romans 5: 3-5

And for my fellow music lovers... one of my favorites. It's ministered greatly to me these past few days~ enjoy!

1000 Gifts: Thankful

2010-11-22T06:05:00.029-05:00

"Give praise to the LORD, proclaim His name;

make known among the nations what He has done.

Sing to Him, sing praise to Him;

tell of all His wonderful acts."

1 Chronicles 16: 8-9

Another week of counting. Another week of heaven-sent gifts.

0842

God's amazing love

0843

forgiveness

0844

gray days for refocusing; sunny days for reflection

We can only be said to be alive in those moments

when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.

~Thornton Wilder

0845

this upside down kingdom blogger and her willingness to serve

0846

His desire to use her continually... and the many, many ways in which He does just that

0847

the challenge-- the constant challenge... more of Him, less of me

0848

the Refiner's fire, the Potter's hands, and safety under His wings

0849

indoor forts

0850

the two-year old thought process... so very, very randomly sweet~

Lolli: I like my ears, Mama. Do you like your ears?

Me: Yes, I do.

Lolli: Me, too!

Thanksgiving Day comes, by statute, once a year;

to the honest man it comes as frequently as the heart of gratitude will allow.

~Edward Sandford Martin

0851

napping children, a clean kitchen... rest.

0852

two older brothers... sharing the Gospel... with their 2 yo sister... with excitement, enthusiasm, and joy

0853

and then later... from her precious lips... "Jesus loves you, {Big Man}!!"

0854

a sunny afternoon and a well-worn football

0855

impromptu sword fights with a light saber, a rake and a broom

0856

AWANA verses and "lessons" from our 6-year old "teacher"

Thou hast given so much to me,

Give one thing more, - a grateful heart;

Not thankful when it pleaseth me,

As if Thy blessings had spare days,

But such a heart whose pulse may be Thy praise.

~George Herbert

0857

big brother shoulder rides

0858

her hand in his... his attention, his direction, his care

0859

tire swings

0860

smiley faces on Costco receipts

0861

very special friends and our time together-- spontaneous dinners and pages to color, trampoline bounces (for hours on end), laughter and camaraderie and blessings galore, and by the end of the day~ weary, nay exhausted, bodies... with hearts filled to overflowing

He who thanks but with the lips

Thanks but in part;

The full, the true Thanksgiving

Comes from the heart.

~J.A. Shedd

0862

Thanksgiving and the joy of family gathered round the table

0863

favorite holidays

0864

His extravagant love

"Now, our God, we give you thanks,

and praise Your glorious name."

1 Chronicles 29:13

Happy Thanksgiving!

and the list continues...

These days I'm loving...

2010-11-18T06:10:00.004-05:00

:: this scrumptious fall weather and afternoons in the leaves

:: a sickness- free home. Ha. lle. lu. jah.

:: fresh apple cider, straight from the orchard

:: and a freezer now full of homemade applesauce for winter-- I'm feeling so very domestic these days :)

:: this baked oatmeal recipe... no more need for the prepare-the-night-before-and refrigerate-while-I-sleep variety (which rarely gets made anymore because, by the time I get the kitchen cleaned up after dinner and the littles tucked warmly in bed, I'm too tuckered out to go in and make another mess). This one is a lovely substitute!

:: the bittersweet my mom tucked into my front door wreath

:: a clean carpet in my family room & Chick-fil-a sweet tea (it's the little things, you know?!)

:: this book... I'm almost/only halfway through, but so far it's given me much, MUCH food for thought. I highly recommended it!

:: the work of Marcia Somerville and her team~ their writing and their finished product, Tapestry of Grace. Rich, full, abundant. Every thread pointing to God, every strand telling History. A blessing, for sure... a gift.

:: my husband's heart for our family... his provision, his dedication, his love

:: my little people's Thanksgiving anticipation... and the reminder that EVERY day is a day to give thanks

:: train tracks and teamwork

:: The Jesus Storybook Bible... now on our second (or is it our third?) trip through. Our very, very, very favorite children's version and a morning staple for all. And as an added bonus-- each week on their website, they share a different video... one of the 44 stories contained in the JSB. Once again, a blessing for both young and old(er :)

:: this time with my babes. Yes, the house is a mess. And yes, the pantry is bare. The laundry... let's not even go there. But oh, how I cherish these days of books and lessons and shared meals and laughter. Stories and hot chocolate and walks in the sun. And His hand through it all... weaving and sculpting and shaping our hearts... even through tears and struggles and misunderstandings galore. Yes, He's here. And with Him, all things are possible.

:: His grace, so marvelous and full.

"... My grace is sufficient for you,

for My power is made perfect in weakness..."

2 Corinthians 12:9

1000 Gifts: November Abundance

2010-11-15T06:27:00.016-05:00

Blessed beyond belief, loved beyond measure, and reminded of both...

over and over and over again.
I give thanks for my family~
for time outdoors,
for time to play,
for time together.
For every single day... each one a beautiful, beautiful gift.
#831-841

:: my front porch cheerleader

:: sunny Sundays... to climb and laugh and climb again

:: success

:: these four

:: strong arms and the love a father shares with his son

:: daddies and their little girls... especially this, my favorite combo

For You are holy, great and mighty,

The moon and the stars declare who You are

I'm so unworthy, but still You love me

Forever my heart will sing of how great You are.

~Phil Wickham

and the list continues....

The caterpillar

2010-11-11T06:05:00.004-05:00

Upon discovering a new silly band in the still-growing collection:

Lolli: Mommy, what dat?

Me: It's a caterpiller.

Lolli: Caa-er-pih-er?

Me: Yep, it's a green caterpiller.

Lolli: God. made. it?

Me: Smile.

Thank you, Lord... for sweet, sweet moments and the chance to share Your love.

If at first you don't succeed...

2010-11-09T07:04:00.013-05:00

try, try again.

And if that still doesn't work... improvise!

How I love his determination... and his industrious thinking, too!

Thank you, Father, for precious, precious boys~

Hiding words

2010-11-04T07:15:00.003-04:00

It's funny. One year ago I wrote this post after making a decision, a commitment, a choice... to do what's best for me and my house... to hide His Word in my heart, over and over and over again.

So now, after one whole year, I offer my progress report:

I failed.

Miserably.

I started strong, but then... well... deadlines, obligations, play dates, meal plans, swim lessons, exhaustion, exhaustion, exhaustion. I'm certain I could offer every excuse in the book. And not a single one of them would be a lie. But I won't. Because there really is no excuse.

If I had really made it a priority, it would have happened. I would have made the time. I would have made the time. I would have made the time. Period. Just like I do for all the other things that really must get done.

Like my co-op lessons. I would never show up for class unprepared; in fact, I shudder at the thought of it. So why on earth do I choose to show up each morning with the task at hand-- to raise my littles in the nurture and admonition of the Lord-- with a heart that could hold so. much. more. Why do I make time in my day for 20th century historians and presidents and economists... for their words... but not for those of the King of the kings. Are their words more important than His very own? Are accounts of sinful foibles and deceits and exploits more critical than Truth and Light and Bread?

May it never be.

So I think that now, on the almost one-year anniversary of my pledge, I'll try again. This time, however, I'm gonna recruit my little ones to join me. We'll start with a favorite,

"I have hidden your Word in my heart that I might not sin against Thee."

Psalm 119:11

And then I think we'll tack on verses 9 and 10:

"How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to Your word.

I seek You with all my heart; do not let me stray from Your commands."

And from there, I'll let the boys choose a selection or two as they wish, and then I'll fill in the rest. We'll surely add a few of Big Man's AWANA verses to the bunch, and together, we'll hide His Word in our hearts.

Together. Accountable. Responsible. Obedient.

And this time, by His grace, I'll (nay, we'll!) succeed.

Don't forget!

2010-11-02T07:15:00.017-04:00

Yep. It'll be a late night... but I'll be up... with snacks and goodies and all...

just waiting to see how things turn out.

And in the meantime, I'll be praying here for His mighty hand...

for His divine intervention...

for His perfect will.

Please don't forget to play your part!

1000 Gifts: I Sing the Mighty Power of God

2010-11-01T06:15:00.008-04:00

I sing the mighty power of God, that made the mountains rise,

That spread the flowing seas abroad, and built the lofty skies.

I sing the wisdom that ordained the sun to rule the day;

The moon shines full at God's command, and all the stars obey.

I sing the goodness of the Lord, who filled the earth with food,

Who formed the creatures through the Word, and then pronounced them good.

Lord, how Thy wonders are displayed, where'er I turn my eye,

If I survey the ground I tread, or gaze upon the sky.

There's not a plant or flower below, but makes Thy glories known.

And clouds arise, and tempests blow, by order from Thy throne;

While all that borrows life from Thee is ever in Thy care;

And everywhere that we can be, Thou, God art present there.

~ Isaac Watts

Rejoicing today in the beauty of His creation... giving thanks for all He's made:

(numbers 818 - 830)

leaf-littered gardens, glistening in reds and oranges and yellows

crisp blue skies lined with feathery white clouds... the call of a brand new day

bird chatter out back, the door open wide

laughter & giggles & more

tiny tomatoes, still clinging to the vine

autumn's harvest... not quite ready to quit

dogs on leashes, babe in stroller, the big ones on bikes down the street

around and around and around we go-- the outdoors still calling for more

summer sheets put away, beds blanketed for warmth

mornings to snuggle and cuddle and rest

homemade soups and freshly baked bread

hot chocolate, applie pie, and more

the thousands of ways He says, I love you

around every corner, in every tree, just waiting.... waiting to be noticed

eyes to see and ears to hear

and a heart... desperate to receive it all

"God made the earth by His power."

Jeremiah 10:12-13

and the list continues...

A true champion

2010-10-28T08:00:00.015-04:00

For anyone needing a little inspiration... or perhaps just a little reminder--

that our lives are purposeful, that we don't go unnoticed,

that He calls us to LOVE,

and as a result,

speak volumes to those in need.

Watch and be blessed~

Thank you, Jennefer, for passing this story along~

Homeschooling benefit #103

2010-10-27T05:20:00.005-04:00

Art "class" can happen any time...

and sometimes there aren't even any rules :)

1000 Gifts: October glory

2010-10-25T07:05:00.001-04:00

In awe of His glory, I give thanks~

0794

October beauty

0795

red, yelllow, and orange

0796

crunching leaves and fresh cool breezes

0797

autumn

"Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower."

~Albert Camus

0798

funny faces & laughter all around

0799

swan-shaped gourds... the garden brought in

0800

a just-turned 6-year old's explanation to his mildly (or perhaps... incredibly) stubborn 2 & a half-year old sister that sometimes you have to do things you just don't want to do

0801

strength to conceal my laughter as said 6 yo told me of their "discussion"

0802

big brother love

0803

paperbag pumpkins

0804

"Mom, can we take some home to share with [Bub] and [Noh-man]?"

0805

friends who have walked a similar path and know exactly where I am

0806

prayers before practice-- with requests for "a challenge" and then the strength to succeed

0807

perseverance

"... we also rejoice in our sufferings,

because we know that suffering produces perseverance;

perseverance, character;

and character, hope.

And hope does not disappoint us,

becasue God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit,

whom He has given us."

Romans 5: 3-5

0808

a new life, a new babe-- my bff... a mother once again

0809

little boys

08010

dinner with friends

0811

chocolate cake!

0812

a Saturday to sleep in

0813

homemade applesauce

0814

... some for now; some in jars for winter

0815

"[Bub], do you want to be a superhero? WE'RE superheroes!"

0816

and then later... "We're putting our things away... but we're STILL superheroes!"

0817

the opportunity to smile. And laugh. And give thanks, every. single. day.

"Now, our God, we give you thanks,

and praise Your glorious name."

1 Chronicles 29:13

and the list continues...

Our favortite books for autumn

2010-10-15T05:55:00.013-04:00

Now that fall is well under way, I thought I'd share a few of our seasonal favorites...

a handful of titles we revisit every single time autumn rolls around.

Mousekin's Golden House by Edna Miller

... beautiful watercolors fill every page as Mousekin's first adventure unfolds~

a charming story and a delightful first in this now out of print series

(yet so worth the time it takes you to track a copy down).

A favorite from my childhood;

now one of my children's, as well.

Ox-cart man by Donald Hall

A classic... a must-read... a lovely glimpse at life back then

How to Eat an Apple Pie and See the World by Marjorie Priceman

One of our very favorites from our Five in a Row days~

We discovered this one when Bub was 5 years-old... and simply can't get enough of it!

The Scarecrow's Hat by Ken Brown

A lesson in perseverance and a bit of thoughtful thinking... charming!

Johnny Appleseed by Reeve Lindbergh

One of our favorite John Chapman retellings...

filled with gorgeous paintings and wonderfully lyrical verse.

My littlest ones just love to pour over these pages!

Leaf Man by Lois Ehlert

Very, very fun! Again, one that my littlest people adore~

Cranberry Thanksgiving by Wende & Harry Devlin

Another treasure from Five in A Row~

A Thanksgiving tradition around here, almost as much so as turkey & mashed taters...

my eldest ones still huddle around for this delightful tale!

Mousekin's Thanksgiving by Edna Miller

And one more adventure with Mousekin...

the perfect addition to your holiday menu!

Happy autumn, and happy reading, everyone!

Gettysburg

2010-10-13T06:20:00.010-04:00

From Cunningham Falls State Park (that's where we camped), it's a mere 30-minute drive to Gettysburg. Since:

-- the boys and I spent several weeks studying the Civil War last spring

-- nary a one of us had ever been to Gettysburg (from my family, I mean)

-- our friends raved of their previous visit and highly recommended that we head that way

-- the 2 adult men in our party = history buffs... especially of the Civil War variety. A few hours at Gettysburg = music to their ears.

... we decided we really must go, and oh... I'm so very glad we did. The skies were blue, the mosquitoes were gone, the company was the best... we couldn't have asked for a better adventure.

Here's the abbreviated version~

:: The Devil's Den --->

:: the site of Chamberlain's famous charge --->

And the view from above... from Little Round Top... extraordinary!

The perfect day trip~ Gettysburg.

Our weekend in pictures: Camping

2010-10-11T07:01:00.019-04:00

Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.

~Leonardo DaVinci

The fire is the main comfort of the camp, whether in summer or winter,

and is about as ample at one season as at another.

It is as well for cheerfulness as for warmth and dryness.

~Henry David Thoreau

To poke a wood fire is more solid enjoyment than almost anything else in the world.

~Charles Dudley Warner

Reduce the complexity of life by eliminating the needless wants of life,

and the labors of life reduce themselves.

~Edwin Way Teale

You have succeeded in life when all you really want is only what you really need.

~Vernon Howard

In the woods. With a tent. And great friends. And yummy food.

The stars, the sky, the fire (oh... the fire!).

It was an absolute blast! Yep, an absolute blast...

and the epitome of simple living.

Sign. me. up.

To find the universal elements enough;

to find the air and the water exhilarating;

to be refreshed by a morning walk or an evening saunter...

to be thrilled by the stars at night;

to be elated over a bird's nest or a wildflower in spring -

these are some of the rewards of the simple life.

~John Burroughs

Twelve.

2010-10-10T07:00:00.032-04:00

Twelve.

My baby is twelve... today.... 10/10/10... and oh. my. goodness.

I don't know where the time has gone!

What I would give for a Pause button, or perhaps even a Rewind...

*why* must the years fly by so quickly??

Oh, how I'd love to know.

Thankfully, God gave me this heart... this already filled-to-overflowing

yet so-much-more-to-be-contained-in heart~

for Memories. Treasures. Eternity. And Him.

Thank you, Lord.

************

Happy Birthday, my favorite 12-year old baby boy~

You have brought more joy to my life than you will ever know...

and I love you with all of my heart!

1000 Gifts: October!

2010-10-04T05:45:00.014-04:00

"It is good to praise the LORD and make music to your name, O Most High,

to proclaim your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night...

for You make me glad by your deeds, O LORD;

I sing for joy at the works of your hands.

How great are your works, O LORD..."

Psalm 92: 1-2, 4-5

At the onset of another week,

I pause to catch my breath, to prepare, to recharge and regroup and remind

of all that matters... of all that counts.

And I focus on Him... on His love... and the gifts of His hand...

and continue my list once again~

0776

a new season... my favorite season!

0777

which means a new month on the calendar... and new beginnings

0778

possibilities

0779

"Thanks for doing this, Mom!"

0780

the generosity of a very great friend... who opened her home when rain shut down the park

(thanks again, Laura!)

0781

a whole afternoon to play & to celebrate... and an impromptu dinner to cap it all off

0782

wonderfully thoughtful birthday gifts... my family room now a Lego fortress

0783

youth group excitement, enthusiasm, and energy... and a youth pastor who truly cares

0784

Wednesday night small group Bible studies and my boy's desire to be there every. single. time.

0785

11-year old faith... 11-year old boldness... determined to share the love of Christ... praying with his pastor... reading a book given just for him

0786

explosions of thanks... this heart overflowing

0787

our World War 1 studies and the reminder that, even then, our God was in control

0788

learning alongside my boys

0789

a tasty treat found stashed in the cupboard...

0790

blue!

0791

a weekend to play... with an afternoon at the fair

0792
family

0793
and the fullness of His love

Rejoice, give thanks, and sing!

and the list continues...

Before the rain

2010-09-29T07:05:00.005-04:00

Aren't little helpers the best??!

1000 Gifts: September's end

2010-09-27T06:29:00.020-04:00

"This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it."

Psalm 118:24

Rejoicing in the gifts of His hand, I add another page to my journal~

0757

rain

0758

RAIN, glorious rain!

0759

and the prospect of more to come

0760

garden helpers, even as the season comes to an end

0761

end-of-summer deliciousness, ripening on the vine

0762

and the anticiaption of a few more tomatoes from our backyard experiment

0763

homemade mashed potatoes-- made from our-very-own-garden spuds

0764

and end-of-summer color... I'll take it as long as it lasts!

0765

a birthday celebration and the joy that comes with turning six

0766

special friends and a dinner at Wegmans (a birthday first for us... and likely a first amongst all six-year old boys... but that was his choice... and it turned out to be a blast!)

0767

hiding in the bathroom for 60 seconds (please don't tell me I'm the only one who does this :)... only to be interrupted by my very confused two-year old... "You potty training??"

0768

those unexpected moments of levity

0769

and the reminder that they grow too quickly.... so cherish it while it lasts!

0770

meals around the table

0771

being reminded by my two-year old daughter that we forgot to say grace

0772

an email from a special gal whom I've never even met face to face...

and her words of encouragement, her words of truth, her words of compassion...

that point me to Jesus, every. single. time

0773

a community of believers and the accountability it provides

0774

darling kindergarten girls and the opportunity to serve in their class

0775

and eternal security, found only in Jesus Christ

"... and the cry of my heart is to bring You praise

from the inside out

Lord, my soul cries out..."

~From the Inside Out, Hillsong

and the list continues...

Six.

2010-09-24T06:05:00.004-04:00

Happy birthday, Big Man!

You're the 6-year old apple of my eye, and I love you with all my heart!

Everything I need to know I learned in kindergarten

2010-09-22T06:50:00.004-04:00

This past week... something new.

Here's the sketch: Fridays= co-op days. This year, Big Man is a part of the kindergarten class-- nine 4 and 5-year olds, all energetic, enthusiastic, and excited about learning and playing and exploring. Led by a fabulous team of women, these children will surely thrive! So needless to say, Big Man adores this time. And every single week we count down the days until we get to go back. Of course when we have a week off from co-op, near tragedy strikes. But that's a whole other story~

Back to Friday. I was able to sit in on the beginning of the kindergarten class before I had to leave to teach my own, and while there, I was able to observe their regular morning routine. Circle time, Bible time, poem time-- this go round a sweet little one about manners.

We say "thank you"

We say "please"

And "excuse me" when we sneeze.

That's the way we do

what's right

We have manners

We're polite!

Well, before reviewing the poem, Mrs. D. asked the kiddos if they could remember any of the manners they had discussed the week before. Of course, little hands flew up and immediately a whole plethera of manners were discussed and demonstrated and discussed once again... until an eager little beaver raised her hand and shared this one... a "manner" I've never ever heard before., but one I will surely never forget. In her squeaky little voice she emphatically stated:

NEVER sneak out the window!

Hmmm... I never realized window-sneaking was such a problem in the kindergarten co-op arena. But now I know, and now a whole classroom full of kindergarten blessings knows that they are NOT to go there either.

Surely this new-found knowledge will come in handy in the days and weeks to come... after all, I DID learn it in kindergarten.

1000 Gifts: September blessings

2010-09-20T05:50:00.014-04:00

"The true way to live is to enjoy every moment as it passes,

and surely it is in the everyday things around us that the true life lies."

~Laura Ingalls Wilder

So once again I give thanks for the everyday things and the incredible gifts of His hand~

0734

home

0735

our very own beds

0736

a roof over our heads, a kitchen full of good eats

0737

the reminder that we are RICH while millions are not...

and the burden to give, to do, to offer something more

0738

answers... whenever they may come

0739

this sparkling brood... my nest of four

0740

and their constant chatter, their endless mirth, their childlike faith... their joy

0741

a fun new toy and the music he creates :)

0742

plus a turn or two for his favorite little protege

0743

with summer's end, her very favorite possession (at least for this moment in time)~

this end-of-the-season find... her very own flops

0744

a weekend with my folks and Saturday picnic fun

0745

patience

0746

face paint

0747

and charming results

0748

watermelon

0749

a special someone to share it with

0750

and togetherness

0751

a morning in the church nursery, my boys-- helping-- at my side

0752

an afternoon nap

0753

and then "Sunday School Musical"-- a production written and choreographed by a favorite 14- yo friend

0754

the ministry-- the faith-- of the students involved

0755

and His ways... so much higher than my own

0756

redemption

"Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good;

His love endures forever."

1 Chronicles 16:34

and the list continues...