{a few words...i miss my favorite fall shoes}
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
random spurts of thought
This morning, already feels off kilter. LOL
It's that whole change thing...
Today I slept in till 6 a.m. and I'm letting the kids sleep in till 8--that's an hour more than usual, for each of us.
I'm doing a little experiment with our school day-seeing if a bit of extra sleep, actually works toward making the mornings a bit smoother and school a bit easier to get started.
We'll see.
I'm drinking coffee and my mind has about a million and six thoughts.
Very few of them are cohesive. (maybe that's my normal? no? lol)
I tend to over think things, to assign greater importance to things than needed. I'm working on that.
I'm thinking about Christmas-already.
Or maybe not already, I mean they have the stuff out in stores so that I'm thinking of it-maybe is timely. LOL
Regardless, I'm thinking of Christmas & have in mind some things for the makings of a happy Christmas morning.
My coffee cup is low.
I need a manicure...I *want* a manicure. Heh.
Today is national chocolate day. :)
Typically breakfast is not a big appeal to me, however, this morning I want something & nothing sounds good.
I'm not sure my boys will ever enjoy cursive writing. They both prefer print. They know, or have been taught the mechanics of cursive, and can sign their name (oh, that makes them legal!) so I suppose all is good--but I just never imagined cursive writing would be a 'bump' in our homeschooling road.
I told my friend Renee last night that I want a really good day. And as I told her, my life is very blessed. I am not complaining or whining. I just want one of those days where you wake up with a happy song in your head. The temp is about 70, the sky is the perfect shade of spring blue with fluffy clouds. Your coffee is good & you get snail mail (fun snail mail, not bills!) to boot. You know what I mean, THAT kind of day. :)
I'm trying to get back into the daily 'do' of blogging.
Thus, today's spew of general nothings. :)
For now, I need to start my day.
I hope yours is a good one. :D
It's that whole change thing...
Today I slept in till 6 a.m. and I'm letting the kids sleep in till 8--that's an hour more than usual, for each of us.
I'm doing a little experiment with our school day-seeing if a bit of extra sleep, actually works toward making the mornings a bit smoother and school a bit easier to get started.
We'll see.
I'm drinking coffee and my mind has about a million and six thoughts.
Very few of them are cohesive. (maybe that's my normal? no? lol)
I tend to over think things, to assign greater importance to things than needed. I'm working on that.
I'm thinking about Christmas-already.
Or maybe not already, I mean they have the stuff out in stores so that I'm thinking of it-maybe is timely. LOL
Regardless, I'm thinking of Christmas & have in mind some things for the makings of a happy Christmas morning.
My coffee cup is low.
I need a manicure...I *want* a manicure. Heh.
Today is national chocolate day. :)
Typically breakfast is not a big appeal to me, however, this morning I want something & nothing sounds good.
I'm not sure my boys will ever enjoy cursive writing. They both prefer print. They know, or have been taught the mechanics of cursive, and can sign their name (oh, that makes them legal!) so I suppose all is good--but I just never imagined cursive writing would be a 'bump' in our homeschooling road.
I told my friend Renee last night that I want a really good day. And as I told her, my life is very blessed. I am not complaining or whining. I just want one of those days where you wake up with a happy song in your head. The temp is about 70, the sky is the perfect shade of spring blue with fluffy clouds. Your coffee is good & you get snail mail (fun snail mail, not bills!) to boot. You know what I mean, THAT kind of day. :)
I'm trying to get back into the daily 'do' of blogging.
Thus, today's spew of general nothings. :)
For now, I need to start my day.
I hope yours is a good one. :D
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
The control freak in me...
I like control.
I mean, I guess most people do. I mean is there a large number of people that just thrive on disorder and chaos?
{perhaps...lol}
But not me. I like to plan. I like schedules. I like order. I like neat and I like tidy.
I have this idea in my head and the hardest thing is what LIFE has the nerve to not adhere to that plan.
It's easier, when your children are younger to kind of have blanket control without seemingly like a control freak. :) However, as your kiddos get older you begin to realize that releasing them is part of the process, and in that process of releasing them, you have to then release---control. ACK!
To say that God is growing me, would me a huge understatement. I feel stretched and pulled and tired and pouty, a lot.
But I am finding that it IS going to be ok. That I don't HAVE to know what is happening next. That I don't have to PLAN it...because HE is already there. He's paved the way.
I'm finding that as long as things get done...that it doesn't matter if they go on my schedule. That I don't have to micromanage things. Also, micromanagement doesn't ensure the desired outcome (doh!) it just lets you see the over zealousness in outline form--it sort of mocks you and your plan/s.
So most days, well a lot of days lately I'm finding grace.
I'm finding out that sometimes you just need to chill.
I'm seeing that stopping and being instead of moving and doing is good too.
I'm realizing that there is freedom for me, in letting go of something that HE's holding anyway.
There is peace there.
Give peace a chance.
I mean, I guess most people do. I mean is there a large number of people that just thrive on disorder and chaos?
{perhaps...lol}
But not me. I like to plan. I like schedules. I like order. I like neat and I like tidy.
I have this idea in my head and the hardest thing is what LIFE has the nerve to not adhere to that plan.
It's easier, when your children are younger to kind of have blanket control without seemingly like a control freak. :) However, as your kiddos get older you begin to realize that releasing them is part of the process, and in that process of releasing them, you have to then release---control. ACK!
To say that God is growing me, would me a huge understatement. I feel stretched and pulled and tired and pouty, a lot.
But I am finding that it IS going to be ok. That I don't HAVE to know what is happening next. That I don't have to PLAN it...because HE is already there. He's paved the way.
I'm finding that as long as things get done...that it doesn't matter if they go on my schedule. That I don't have to micromanage things. Also, micromanagement doesn't ensure the desired outcome (doh!) it just lets you see the over zealousness in outline form--it sort of mocks you and your plan/s.
So most days, well a lot of days lately I'm finding grace.
I'm finding out that sometimes you just need to chill.
I'm seeing that stopping and being instead of moving and doing is good too.
I'm realizing that there is freedom for me, in letting go of something that HE's holding anyway.
There is peace there.
Give peace a chance.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Cast iron theology...
So I was cleaning the kitchen last night and God did that thing where he uses the practical to illustrate the spiritual for me.
I love cooking with cast iron. I do!
Did you know that when you get new cast iron there is this process of seasoning you do?
Did you know after your pan is seasoned you aren't supposed to use soap on it?
The pan, once seasoned, acts similarly to teflon...the soap strips those properties away, and soap will also get into the pores of your cast iron....anyway, I digress...
So I'm there, hot water pulsing, scrubbie poised, pouring on the salt.
Yes, salt.
Why? Because salt acts as an abrasive and it also purifies--without damaging or stripping the seasoning.
It was then I thought about our Christian walk.
There is a falacy in believing that following Jesus means sunshine and rainbows.
Sometimes it hurts.
Sometimes our growth in Christ is painful.
He is cleaning us, to make us holy before Him.
He is scrubbing away the stuck on stuffs.
I love cooking with cast iron. I do!
Did you know that when you get new cast iron there is this process of seasoning you do?
Did you know after your pan is seasoned you aren't supposed to use soap on it?
The pan, once seasoned, acts similarly to teflon...the soap strips those properties away, and soap will also get into the pores of your cast iron....anyway, I digress...
So I'm there, hot water pulsing, scrubbie poised, pouring on the salt.
Yes, salt.
Why? Because salt acts as an abrasive and it also purifies--without damaging or stripping the seasoning.
It was then I thought about our Christian walk.
There is a falacy in believing that following Jesus means sunshine and rainbows.
Sometimes it hurts.
Sometimes our growth in Christ is painful.
He is cleaning us, to make us holy before Him.
He is scrubbing away the stuck on stuffs.
Oh he purifies us.
The trials of our faith are abrasive, they are for our good.
But he never strips us.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Who knew...
It would happen.
I mean they TELL you it will...but, when you are in the middle of it, you think NAH, it won't happen.
But today, it did.
Today, my heart broke a little as I watched Toy Story with my kiddos.
It has safely been 3 or 4 years since we watched it together.
But today, after church (for the boys--baby girl is still running low grade fever) we baked cookies and snuggled in their room and watched.
You have to know that my Nathan is eleven and used to carry around Rex and Buzz when he was three.
Elijah is newly 7 and back when he was 3, Toy Story and Toy Story 2 were in high rotation on his DAILY watching menu. His words were very few at that time...but his love for Toy Story & Five Monkeys On The Bed (book) was vast.
So today, we watched.
Anna-Elizabeth met Woody for the first time.
I can't wait for her to see the second one and meet Jessie the Cowgirl.
But then it happened.
My older boys totally got the adult humor.
"Buzz Lightbeer'' did you hear that Mom, FUNNNNNNNNNNNY.
Elijah still enjoyed it, but when I looked over--there was this big kid sitting where my silent 3 year old was supposed to be...
And I did that Mom thing, where you sit there and you feel this pain--akin to a growing pain, because you realize that your ''littles'' are so.not.little & they've become these big kids, seemingly overnight.
My heart was happy. I was sitting there remeeting my kids. Meeting their next phase.
My head was overwhelmed with how quickly the time has passed.
I wanted to stop and roll around in memory. I wanted to remember Nathan holding those mini action figures and taking them everywhere. I wanted to remember the day our VCR edition of Toy Story broke and it made for a very sad day for Elijah. I wanted to be there again...to make some better choices, to love more, and fuss less and kiss them and cherish those moments...I wanted to tell them, to ask them to just stay little there, because the world is scary and Momma's can protect little kids. :)
But I couldn't. I can't.
Life keeps on going. The days turn to weeks and the weeks to months an the months to years, until you are sitting there questioning exactly HOW the time got away from you.
So instead, I laughed with my big ones, enjoyed seeing Elijah's seven year old response & got to see love bloom for the movie in AE's eyes.
I can take that
well, that and knowing the third installment will hold more memories for us.
I mean they TELL you it will...but, when you are in the middle of it, you think NAH, it won't happen.
But today, it did.
Today, my heart broke a little as I watched Toy Story with my kiddos.
It has safely been 3 or 4 years since we watched it together.
But today, after church (for the boys--baby girl is still running low grade fever) we baked cookies and snuggled in their room and watched.
You have to know that my Nathan is eleven and used to carry around Rex and Buzz when he was three.
Elijah is newly 7 and back when he was 3, Toy Story and Toy Story 2 were in high rotation on his DAILY watching menu. His words were very few at that time...but his love for Toy Story & Five Monkeys On The Bed (book) was vast.
So today, we watched.
Anna-Elizabeth met Woody for the first time.
I can't wait for her to see the second one and meet Jessie the Cowgirl.
But then it happened.
My older boys totally got the adult humor.
"Buzz Lightbeer'' did you hear that Mom, FUNNNNNNNNNNNY.
Elijah still enjoyed it, but when I looked over--there was this big kid sitting where my silent 3 year old was supposed to be...
And I did that Mom thing, where you sit there and you feel this pain--akin to a growing pain, because you realize that your ''littles'' are so.not.little & they've become these big kids, seemingly overnight.
My heart was happy. I was sitting there remeeting my kids. Meeting their next phase.
My head was overwhelmed with how quickly the time has passed.
I wanted to stop and roll around in memory. I wanted to remember Nathan holding those mini action figures and taking them everywhere. I wanted to remember the day our VCR edition of Toy Story broke and it made for a very sad day for Elijah. I wanted to be there again...to make some better choices, to love more, and fuss less and kiss them and cherish those moments...I wanted to tell them, to ask them to just stay little there, because the world is scary and Momma's can protect little kids. :)
But I couldn't. I can't.
Life keeps on going. The days turn to weeks and the weeks to months an the months to years, until you are sitting there questioning exactly HOW the time got away from you.
So instead, I laughed with my big ones, enjoyed seeing Elijah's seven year old response & got to see love bloom for the movie in AE's eyes.
I can take that
well, that and knowing the third installment will hold more memories for us.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Seven
My Elijah...
His eyes shine,
his smile melts my heart.
He's my last little boy...
He can reading,
and he's wiggly,
he loves candy and wrestling and hanging out with Nathan.
He's stubborn
and willful
Sometimes, you don't realize how easy things come-
until you have one that struggles
and you watch them
and everything in your Momma heart, cheers them on
and yet
they struggle.
They fight so hard
for what come naturally for others.
And your heart
breaks into a million pieces
when the reality of childhood happens-
and some kid, (or adult)
won't take the time, to listen or try to hear,
and you watch him-
realize that...
and you fight to teach him, that he's worth it
that he's got so much potential
and talent
and that one day
one day
the voice that struggled to be understood
will shout from the mountaintops.
Elijah, you came into the world one October morning,
in your toddler days you woke me each morning with, ''good morning my beautiful momma.''
and now my mornings are filled with you saying, ''would you like a hug from your piece of toast'' or you reading to you.
I love you, more than you can ever imagine.
I'm always on your side.
You've got a friend in me.
Happy Birthday!
<3
His eyes shine,
his smile melts my heart.
He's my last little boy...
He can reading,
and he's wiggly,
he loves candy and wrestling and hanging out with Nathan.
He's stubborn
and willful
Sometimes, you don't realize how easy things come-
until you have one that struggles
and you watch them
and everything in your Momma heart, cheers them on
and yet
they struggle.
They fight so hard
for what come naturally for others.
And your heart
breaks into a million pieces
when the reality of childhood happens-
and some kid, (or adult)
won't take the time, to listen or try to hear,
and you watch him-
realize that...
and you fight to teach him, that he's worth it
that he's got so much potential
and talent
and that one day
one day
the voice that struggled to be understood
will shout from the mountaintops.
Elijah, you came into the world one October morning,
in your toddler days you woke me each morning with, ''good morning my beautiful momma.''
and now my mornings are filled with you saying, ''would you like a hug from your piece of toast'' or you reading to you.
I love you, more than you can ever imagine.
I'm always on your side.
You've got a friend in me.
Happy Birthday!
<3
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Honestly
I've toyed with this post for a while.
As I sit here, prepared to write it, finally. I wonder if I am really prepared.
It's hard to know what to say.
So we'll just spit it out and move along.
I am getting a divorce.
::exhales::
looks around
K.
I never thought I'd type those words. I never in a million, billion years thought I would, but I am.
Since I have been blogging I have never pulled my marriage into my blogging, now that my marriage is over, I won't begin to do it either.
You can know, the last couple of years have been hard. The last year and a half was the hardest time of my life.
You can rest assured that I question myself a million times a day.
I won't blog details, that is just not for the Internets consumption.
I will say that I left and I filed.
What I will share is that my children have two parents that love them very much.
Very much.
I am going to do everything I can to keep them whole and happy.
I am going to trust God with the rest.
That may sound flippant and foolish--but I just have to believe that God is able. That my mess is not put on my kids. Will they walk away from all of this unaffected, absolutely NOT, but we do not walk through life with out being affected. I have to trust that God will hold them and fill in all the gaps and work them for His glory in their lives.
I have hurt more in the last year or so than I imagined a heart could. I have felt judged and misunderstood. I have felt selfish and hateful. I have felt lonely and sad. I have questioned everything I thought was real. I have questioned my faith and my foundation. I have cried, and yelled and snarked and stomped my feet.
I will not try to pretend that everything is ok. But I know that everything will be ok.
I am ok with that.
Thank you for your prayers and for your readership.
Thank you for being my friends.
As I sit here, prepared to write it, finally. I wonder if I am really prepared.
It's hard to know what to say.
So we'll just spit it out and move along.
I am getting a divorce.
::exhales::
looks around
K.
I never thought I'd type those words. I never in a million, billion years thought I would, but I am.
Since I have been blogging I have never pulled my marriage into my blogging, now that my marriage is over, I won't begin to do it either.
You can know, the last couple of years have been hard. The last year and a half was the hardest time of my life.
You can rest assured that I question myself a million times a day.
I won't blog details, that is just not for the Internets consumption.
I will say that I left and I filed.
What I will share is that my children have two parents that love them very much.
Very much.
I am going to do everything I can to keep them whole and happy.
I am going to trust God with the rest.
That may sound flippant and foolish--but I just have to believe that God is able. That my mess is not put on my kids. Will they walk away from all of this unaffected, absolutely NOT, but we do not walk through life with out being affected. I have to trust that God will hold them and fill in all the gaps and work them for His glory in their lives.
I have hurt more in the last year or so than I imagined a heart could. I have felt judged and misunderstood. I have felt selfish and hateful. I have felt lonely and sad. I have questioned everything I thought was real. I have questioned my faith and my foundation. I have cried, and yelled and snarked and stomped my feet.
I will not try to pretend that everything is ok. But I know that everything will be ok.
I am ok with that.
Thank you for your prayers and for your readership.
Thank you for being my friends.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
11 on 11th
Blog this photo
11 on 11th
My Nathan
the one that made me a Mom.
the one that broke me in & showed me the ropes...
he wise beyond his years
and strong willed...
he has a compassionate heart
and a streak of pride...
he is my worrier,
my planner,
my organizer,
my type a...
he loves pizza
and pasta
and marvel
and wrestling
he almost looks me in my eyes,
the boy that is a shadow of a man...
i am so proud of him
my heart both burst and breaks
as I watch him grow...
i see his face cloud with doubt and insecurity
I see him quietly chuckle when he gets it right
i see him
and I think
wow
he will forever be in my heart, this baby of mine.
thank you for waking my soul eleven years ago, nathan
I am so happy to be your Momma.
(I'm thinking this is the last year he will use the bday pillowcase...sigh)
11 on 11th
My Nathan
the one that made me a Mom.
the one that broke me in & showed me the ropes...
he wise beyond his years
and strong willed...
he has a compassionate heart
and a streak of pride...
he is my worrier,
my planner,
my organizer,
my type a...
he loves pizza
and pasta
and marvel
and wrestling
he almost looks me in my eyes,
the boy that is a shadow of a man...
i am so proud of him
my heart both burst and breaks
as I watch him grow...
i see his face cloud with doubt and insecurity
I see him quietly chuckle when he gets it right
i see him
and I think
wow
he will forever be in my heart, this baby of mine.
thank you for waking my soul eleven years ago, nathan
I am so happy to be your Momma.
(I'm thinking this is the last year he will use the bday pillowcase...sigh)
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Nine
Today, he is nine.
My second son.
He was my smiley baby, with the bright blue eyes.
He is still my snuggly guy.
He has a heart that is tender
and a temper, when pushed.
He loves to tell a story
and tell a story, he can...
He often says, ''oh and by the way...''
to let you know there is MORE to the story he is already weaving.
He loves to read
and play video games.
His best friends are his brothers-
brothers forever-friends for life
He has a way with his baby sister, like no one else.
He is quick with a joke,
and his eyes and smile are magic.
Today he is nine.
I am blessed beyond measure to be his mom.
My second son.
He was my smiley baby, with the bright blue eyes.
He is still my snuggly guy.
He has a heart that is tender
and a temper, when pushed.
He loves to tell a story
and tell a story, he can...
He often says, ''oh and by the way...''
to let you know there is MORE to the story he is already weaving.
He loves to read
and play video games.
His best friends are his brothers-
brothers forever-friends for life
He has a way with his baby sister, like no one else.
He is quick with a joke,
and his eyes and smile are magic.
Today he is nine.
I am blessed beyond measure to be his mom.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Bloggy Book Tour
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
I was born and raised in Kentucky and my love of history goes deep - way back to the 18th-century when my family first came into the Bluegrass State. It will always be home to me, even though I now live with my husband, Randy, and my sons, Wyatt and Paul, in the misty woods of northwest Washington. I go back as often as I can to visit family and all the old haunts that I love.I grew up playing on the original site of Fort Boonesborough and swimming in the Kentucky River and climbing the Pinnacle near Berea and watching the great outdoor dramas of the early settlers. Often my cousins and brother and I would play in my Granny's attic and dress up in the pioneer costumes she made us and pretend to be Daniel Boone, Rebecca, Jemima, or the Shawnee.
As I grew up I began to write stories and they were always historical, filled with the lore I had heard or read about. It's no accident that my first book (which is actually my fifth book - the others were practice!) is about those first Kentucky pioneers.
I feel blessed beyond measure to write books. My prayer is that you are doubly blessed reading them.
Note: Laura Frantz credits her 100-year-old grandmother as being the catalyst for her fascination with Kentucky history. Frantz's family followed Daniel Boone into Kentucky in 1792 and settled in Madison County where her family still resides. Frantz is a former schoolteacher and social worker who currently lives in the misty woods of Washington state with her husband and two sons, whom she homeschools.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Lovely but tough as nails, Lael Click is the daughter of a celebrated frontiersman. Haunted by her father's former captivity with the Shawnee Indians, as well as the secret sins of her family's past, Lael comes of age in the fragile Kentucky settlement her father founded.Though she faces the loss of a childhood love, a dangerous family feud, and the affection of a Shawnee warrior, Lael draws strength from the rugged land she calls home, and from Ma Horn, a distant relative who shows her the healing ways of herbs and roots found in the hills.
But the arrival of an outlander doctor threatens her view of the world, God, and herself--and the power of grace and redemption. This epic novel gives readers a glimpse into the simple yet daring lives of the pioneers who first crossed the Appalachians, all through the courageous eyes of a determined young woman.
Laura Frantz's debut novel offers a feast for readers of historical fiction and romance lovers alike.
If you would like to read the first chapter of The Frontiersman’s Daughter, go HERE
Thursday, August 27, 2009
because it's Thursday
and I haven't blogged in forever.
hello!
I'm caught up in the middle of school, the routine may well be the death of me. :)
I'm back to getting up at 5 a.m. , the kids are up at 7, we start school at 8 and are done by about 1, most days. The rest of the day is filled with errands and therapies and such.
I currently have a prayer shawl on my hook. My Aunts, grandmother died recently and I'm making her one.
I'm so excited Fall is on the way--granted, then Winter will come an dI will be longig for Summer...but for now, I'll roll around in the glory that is almost Fall. :)
My mom is still dealing with shingles--it has been awful, but she is improving some--PTL.
This feels scattered, I'm sure. But I wanted to check in. I'm alive, I'm still trying to find my routine--thank you for hanging in there.
Happy Thursday!
hello!
I'm caught up in the middle of school, the routine may well be the death of me. :)
I'm back to getting up at 5 a.m. , the kids are up at 7, we start school at 8 and are done by about 1, most days. The rest of the day is filled with errands and therapies and such.
I currently have a prayer shawl on my hook. My Aunts, grandmother died recently and I'm making her one.
I'm so excited Fall is on the way--granted, then Winter will come an dI will be longig for Summer...but for now, I'll roll around in the glory that is almost Fall. :)
My mom is still dealing with shingles--it has been awful, but she is improving some--PTL.
This feels scattered, I'm sure. But I wanted to check in. I'm alive, I'm still trying to find my routine--thank you for hanging in there.
Happy Thursday!
Friday, August 21, 2009
things.making.me.happy
--a good first week of school
--much needed rain
--really, really, reeeeaaaallllllllly good coffee
--pend da night campouts with the cousins (this is making my kiddos VERY happy
--perspective
--email-I love how it connects me to friends far away
--yarn
--movie night with my kiddos & nieces & nephew. It's Hannah Montana, and I won't lie. I'm happy to watch it. :D
How's your Friday? Need some happy? Think about it--something is making you happy! So make your list...post it. :)
--much needed rain
--really, really, reeeeaaaallllllllly good coffee
--pend da night campouts with the cousins (this is making my kiddos VERY happy
--perspective
--email-I love how it connects me to friends far away
--yarn
--movie night with my kiddos & nieces & nephew. It's Hannah Montana, and I won't lie. I'm happy to watch it. :D
How's your Friday? Need some happy? Think about it--something is making you happy! So make your list...post it. :)
Monday, August 17, 2009
Day 1
Today was our first day of homeschooling for this year.
I have to say-overall it went very well.
It always takes a week or two to find your flow and work though the kinks--but considering that I added another grade level.
Circle time, was kinda bumpy--but I do feel it's going to be a really good addition and kind of pull things together. In circle time, we had devotion/daily bible reading, started learning the books of the Old Testament, worked on telling time with regular and Roman Numerals, then I did some reading aloud from several sources.
The rest of the day I just kind of moved from subject to subject. This is where the first couple of weeks just works to getting into a groove.
AE totally did a reading lesson. I have no doubt she'll be reading by years end. (skeery)
I'm looking forward to this year. I think it's really going to be a good one. :)
I have to say-overall it went very well.
It always takes a week or two to find your flow and work though the kinks--but considering that I added another grade level.
Circle time, was kinda bumpy--but I do feel it's going to be a really good addition and kind of pull things together. In circle time, we had devotion/daily bible reading, started learning the books of the Old Testament, worked on telling time with regular and Roman Numerals, then I did some reading aloud from several sources.
The rest of the day I just kind of moved from subject to subject. This is where the first couple of weeks just works to getting into a groove.
AE totally did a reading lesson. I have no doubt she'll be reading by years end. (skeery)
I'm looking forward to this year. I think it's really going to be a good one. :)
Bloggy Book tour (a bit delayed by sickies...) Night Watchman
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Mark Mynheir was born and raised on the east coast of Central Florida. Like most boys growing up, Mark enjoyed sports, mainly football and martial arts.
In 1983, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and went through basic training at Parris Island, South Carolina. After serving four years in the Marines, Mark changed gears and pursued a career in law enforcement.
During his career as a police officer, Mark has worked as a narcotics agent, a S.W.A.T. team member, and a homicide detective.
Over sixteen years ago, during a health crisis involving his oldest son, Mark gave his life to Jesus Christ. Shortly after his conversion, he felt God leading him in a new direction: writing. Now he balances dual careers as a police officer and novelist.
He has authored Rolling Thunder (The Truth Chasers Book One), From the Belly of the Dragon (The Truth Chasers Book Two), and The Void (The Truth Chasers Book Three).
Mark is married to the love of his life and has three fantastic children, and they all currently reside in Central Florida.
ABOUT THE BOOK
When everything is ripped away...
Eleven months ago, Ray Quinn was a tough, quick-witted Orlando homicide detective at the top of his game-until a barrage of bullets ended his career.and his partner's life.
Now medically retired with a painful handicap, Ray battles the haunting guilt for his partner's death. Numbing the pain with alcohol and attitude, Ray takes a job as a night watchman at a swanky Orlando condo community.
But when a pastor and an exotic dancer are found dead in one of the condos in an apparent murder-suicide, Ray can no longer linger in the shadows. The victim’s sister is convinced her brother was framed and begs Ray to take on an impossible case─to challenge the evidence and clear her brother’s name.
Ray reluctantly pulls the thread of this supposedly dead-end case only to unravel a murder investigation so deep that it threatens to turn the Orlando political landscape upside down and transform old friends into new enemies. As Ray chases down leads and interrogates suspects, someone is watching his every move, someone determined to keep him from ever finding out the truth─at any cost.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Night Watchman, go HERE
Wanna buy your own copy? Go HERE
Friday, August 14, 2009
Friday Felicities
--really.good.coffee
--watching a pink tinged sunrise
--schoool starting soon
--kiddos on the mend
--diet mt dew
--Fall in sight
What's making you happy today?
Post it!
Come on!
I dare you!
--watching a pink tinged sunrise
--schoool starting soon
--kiddos on the mend
--diet mt dew
--Fall in sight
What's making you happy today?
Post it!
Come on!
I dare you!
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Oh, I know who your Daddy is...
today I woke, fixed some coffee & logged into Facebook. It's typically how I start my day.
I was greeted with a status update of a friend that posted part of the lyrics to Brandon Heath's "Give Me Your Eyes''
My kids sing this in Kids Choir and it's one of their favorites-- the message is incredble.
Today was a busy day...there was a bank run, then all the way across town (20+mins) to take Elijah to therapy, then after therapy a trip to the grocery store.
Errand day means lots of radio time and today, because God is like He is, the playlist seemed to repeat the message. I heard Audio Adrenlines "Hands and Feet" twice and the icing was hearing Warren Barfields, "Mistaken.''
As our day was winding down, we stopped at the grocery store. This store, my Daddy happens to work at part time. I've come to know some of the workers and some of them recognize me and will speak. Today, however, after buzzing around, trying to hurry, in my haste I picked up 5 lbs bags of potatoes instead of 10.
While the cashier was rining up the rest of my order I head over to produce to fix my mistake. I'm grabbing the bags when I hear "Oh, I know who your Daddy is, he works up front.'' It was the produce manager. I did a little chit chat, got to agree with him about how sweet my Momma was and then I headed back to the front, paid and loaded up the stuff in the truck.
I want people to see me and say, "I know who your Daddy is...''
I want to be mistaken for Jesus.
I was greeted with a status update of a friend that posted part of the lyrics to Brandon Heath's "Give Me Your Eyes''
My kids sing this in Kids Choir and it's one of their favorites-- the message is incredble.
give me your eyes for just one second
give me your eyes so I can see
everthing that I keep missing
give me your love for humanity
give me your arms for the broken hearted
ones that are far beyond my reach
give me your heart for the ones forgotten
give me your eyes so I can see
Today was a busy day...there was a bank run, then all the way across town (20+mins) to take Elijah to therapy, then after therapy a trip to the grocery store.
Errand day means lots of radio time and today, because God is like He is, the playlist seemed to repeat the message. I heard Audio Adrenlines "Hands and Feet" twice and the icing was hearing Warren Barfields, "Mistaken.''
God's timing always amazes me. Because it has been in the last few days that I have been ministered to the most-by friends, being the hands and feet of Jesus, in my life.
As our day was winding down, we stopped at the grocery store. This store, my Daddy happens to work at part time. I've come to know some of the workers and some of them recognize me and will speak. Today, however, after buzzing around, trying to hurry, in my haste I picked up 5 lbs bags of potatoes instead of 10.
While the cashier was rining up the rest of my order I head over to produce to fix my mistake. I'm grabbing the bags when I hear "Oh, I know who your Daddy is, he works up front.'' It was the produce manager. I did a little chit chat, got to agree with him about how sweet my Momma was and then I headed back to the front, paid and loaded up the stuff in the truck.
As I was driving home, it hit me.
I want people to see me and say, "I know who your Daddy is...''
I want to be mistaken for Jesus.
Summer check in...
Ok.
So remember at the beginning of summer, I wrote out my goals/plans.
They were good things...
and...
June was a good month.
July, however, spun out of control. :)
Ok, so maybe THAT was dramatic. But July ushered in my mother getting shingles & to this day she is still suffering. She literally took to her bed (SO NOT LIKE MY MOM) and has only gotten up to go the dr & to sit up for a bit in the living room. The pain for her has been awful. Combined with the fact she has severe RA and her immunity is already compromised--it's just been a hard battle for her.
With her shingles onset, my 'plans and goals' took the path of the wayside.
The 10 lbs I lost in June-I found again in July.
The walking I had faithfully done in June--disappeared in July.
The writing of the Psalms/Proverbs--turned into quick snippets of *reading* them in July.
But that is what August if for...
for recommitting and restarting and resetting goals.
So it's August 13th...
we are rebounding from all four kiddos being sick...
my daddy having an abcessed tooth over the weekend...
my laptop dying...
my uncle getting staph infection...
my mom still dealing with shingles...
but
I am resetting goals.
today is day one (or two, actually!)
July was no a wash.
I got A LOT accomplished by way of prepping for school.
AE is so excited to be starting Pre-K.
Life is kind of like that.
It's never going to be neat and tidy.
It's rarely going to follow the plan or schedule.
The key, I'm finding, is learning to adjust your sails.
And that sounds so cliche.
I know.
But for me-it's just the truth.
Life may not be what you imagined it to be...
or take the path you thought you'd walk...
but
it's still your life
You still get to live it...
you still can rest and know that God is there-
with you...
guiding you on the 'plans and goals'
He's had for you all along.
There is comfort in that, huh?
Happy Thursday.
So remember at the beginning of summer, I wrote out my goals/plans.
They were good things...
and...
June was a good month.
July, however, spun out of control. :)
Ok, so maybe THAT was dramatic. But July ushered in my mother getting shingles & to this day she is still suffering. She literally took to her bed (SO NOT LIKE MY MOM) and has only gotten up to go the dr & to sit up for a bit in the living room. The pain for her has been awful. Combined with the fact she has severe RA and her immunity is already compromised--it's just been a hard battle for her.
With her shingles onset, my 'plans and goals' took the path of the wayside.
The 10 lbs I lost in June-I found again in July.
The walking I had faithfully done in June--disappeared in July.
The writing of the Psalms/Proverbs--turned into quick snippets of *reading* them in July.
But that is what August if for...
for recommitting and restarting and resetting goals.
So it's August 13th...
we are rebounding from all four kiddos being sick...
my daddy having an abcessed tooth over the weekend...
my laptop dying...
my uncle getting staph infection...
my mom still dealing with shingles...
but
I am resetting goals.
today is day one (or two, actually!)
July was no a wash.
I got A LOT accomplished by way of prepping for school.
AE is so excited to be starting Pre-K.
Life is kind of like that.
It's never going to be neat and tidy.
It's rarely going to follow the plan or schedule.
The key, I'm finding, is learning to adjust your sails.
And that sounds so cliche.
I know.
But for me-it's just the truth.
Life may not be what you imagined it to be...
or take the path you thought you'd walk...
but
it's still your life
You still get to live it...
you still can rest and know that God is there-
with you...
guiding you on the 'plans and goals'
He's had for you all along.
There is comfort in that, huh?
Happy Thursday.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Have you noticed????
There have been a lot of book tours
and not much Cheri?
Well, sickness is upon the household-it's been a long month around here.
I promise there will be more blogging & hopefully in the not to distant future.
Thanks for reading!!!!
:D
and not much Cheri?
Well, sickness is upon the household-it's been a long month around here.
I promise there will be more blogging & hopefully in the not to distant future.
Thanks for reading!!!!
:D
Bloggy Book Tour--Mohamed's Moon
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
A strong defender of Christian values, noted author and lecturer Keith Clemons is a native of Southern California and graduate of English Literature at California State University, Fullerton. In his former capacity as Vice President of Marketing for Mytec Technologies Inc.
He was a frequent conference speaker, particularly when the forum centered on Electronic Commerce. Today, in addition to writing, he appears on radio and television where he uses his communications skills to explain coming trends that will affect both the church and society at large.
His passion for communication has resulted in the previous publication of more than a hundred articles. To date, Mr. Clemons has completed five novels including Angel in the Alley and the award winning If I Should Die, These Little Ones, and Above The Stars.
He resides with his wife and daughter at their home in Caledon, Ontario, Canada.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Are we enemies...
or brothers?
Two brothers separated at birth grow up worlds apart. Outwardly, they're exactly alike, but inwardly, nothing's the same--one is a devotee of fundamentalist Islam; the other, a Christian. In this modern-day Cain and Abel story, the lines are drawn not just over whose God is right, but also over the fact that they're both in love with the same girl.
It's a conflict with grave repercussions, little hope of resolution--and time is running out. In the background, a plan has been set in motion that will bring the United States government to its knees. Will an unexpected visitation reconcile the brothers in time to save the woman they love--and ultimately, themselves--from the coming devastation?
In his award-winning style, author Keith Clemons delivers a profound comparison between Christianity and Islam, a dichotomy of life versus death, love versus hate, and grace versus legalism. Mohamed's Moon will plunge you into a world where hatred and heinous acts are justified. But if hatred is potent, it pales in comparison to the power of God's love.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Mohamed's Moon, go HERE
Buy your copy HERE.
Friday, August 7, 2009
Bloggy book tour--The Sacred Cipher
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Over the past 35 years, Terry Brennan has accumulated a broad range of experience in both the profit and non-profit business sectors.His 22-year, award winning journalism career included:
• Seven years as a sportswriter and editor with The Philadelphia Bulletin, at the time the largest-circulation afternoon newspaper in the nation;
• Leading The Mercury of Pottstown (PA), as its editor, to a Pulitzer Prize in Editorial Writing;
• Serving as Executive Editor of a multi-national newspaper firm – Ingersoll Publications – with papers in the USA, England and Ireland.
In 1996 Brennan transferred his successful management career to the non-profit sector and served for 12 years as Vice President of Operations for the Christian Herald Association, Inc., the parent organization of four New York City ministries, including The Bowery Mission.
Now Chief Operating Officer of the National Organization on Disability, Brennan also won the Valley Forge Award for editorial writing from the Freedoms Foundation. His two adult sons and their families live in Pennsylvania. Terry, his wife Andrea and their two adult children live in New York City. The Sacred Cipher is his first novel.
ABOUT THE BOOK
History's greatest secret could be tomorrow's greatest threat More historically and biblically accurate than The DaVinci Code and just as adventurous as an Indiana Jones movie, The Sacred Cipher combines action and mystery to draw readers into a world of ancient secrets and international escapades.When an ancient scroll appears in a secret room of the Bowery Mission in New York City, Tom Bohannon is both stunned and intrigued. The enigma of the scroll's contents will send Bohannon and his team ricocheting around the world, drawing the heat of both Jewish and Muslim militaries, and bringing the Middle East to the brink of nuclear war in this heart-pounding adventure of historical proportions. The Sacred Cipher is a riveting, fact-based tale of mystery and suspense.
If you want to read the Prologue of The Sacred Cipher, go HERE
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
A bloggy book tour--Timescape
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Robert Liparulo is a former journalist, with over a thousand articles and multiple writing awards to his name. His first novel, Comes a Horseman, released to critical acclaim. Each of his subsequent thrillers—Germ, Deadfall, and Deadlock—secured his place as one of today’s most popular and daring thriller writers.
He is known for investing deep research and chillingly accurate predictions of near-future scenarios into his stories. In fact, his thorough, journalistic approach to research has resulted in his becoming an expert on the various topics he explores in his fiction, and he has appeared on such media outlets as CNN and ABC Radio.
Liparulo’s visual style of writing has caught the eye of Hollywood producers. Currently, three of his novels for adults are in various stages of development for the big screen: the film rights to Comes A Horseman. were purchased by the producer of Tom Clancy’s movies; and Liparulo is penning the screenplays for GERM and Deadfall
for two top producers. He is also working with the director Andrew Davis (The Fugitive, Holes) on a political thriller. Novelist Michael Palmer calls Deadfall “a brilliantly crafted thriller.” March 31st marked the publication of Deadfall’s follow-up, Deadlock, which novelist Gayle Lynds calls, “best of high-octane suspense.”
Liparulo’s bestselling young adult series, Dreamhouse Kings, debuted last year with House of Dark Shadows and Watcher in the Woods. Book three, Gatekeepers, released in January, and number four, Timescape, in July. The series has garnered praise from readers, both young and old, as well as attracting famous fans who themselves know the genre inside and out. Of the series, Goosebumps creator R.L. Stine says, “I loved wandering around in these books. With a house of so many great, haunting stories, why would you ever want to go outside?”
With the next two Dreamhouse books “in the can,” he is currently working on his next thriller, which for the first time injects supernatural elements into his brand of gun-blazing storytelling. The story is so compelling, two Hollywood studios are already in talks to acquire it—despite its publication date being more than a year away. After that comes a trilogy of novels, based on his acclaimed short story, which appeared in James Patterson’s Thriller anthology. New York Times bestselling author Steve Berry calls Liparulo’s writing “Inventive, suspenseful, and highly entertaining . . . Robert Liparulo is a storyteller, pure and simple.” He lives with his family in Colorado.
ABOUT THE BOOK
David, Xander, Dad, and Keal have discovered a terrible secret. Now, finding Mom is only a small part of their mission. And time is running out. Using the portals to build an empire, Taksidian wants the house for himself, and there's nothing he won't do to get the family out. The consequences of his meddling reach far beyond the family--to the future of the world itself. The Kings know their survival depends on stopping the bloodthirsty assassin. If only they can find his weakness in time.
Most startling of all is their ability to change the path of history. But will their tinkering in time reunite the family and save the future . . . or set mankind on an irreversible course of destruction?
If you would like to read the first chapter of Timescape, go HERE
Enter the contest to win this book package by clicking on the image!!!
You can buy your copy HERE
Sunday, August 2, 2009
the summer of the dress
this dress found it's way to us, via a bag of hand me downs earlier this Spring.
somehow it has become AE's favorite dress
she would wear it daily
she would sleep in it
she
loves
this
dress
it's worn
it's shapless
it's super soft from many washings
it is the dress of Summer 2009
somehow it has become AE's favorite dress
she would wear it daily
she would sleep in it
she
loves
this
dress
it's worn
it's shapless
it's super soft from many washings
it is the dress of Summer 2009
Monday, July 27, 2009
LivingStones Academy 2009-2010
8:00-8:30-CIRCLE TIME
Daily Devotional & memory verse work, English From the Roots Up-Word of the Day, Art/Artist of the week etc. (I'm still building this...but you get these gist)
8:35-9:00-
Pre-K work with AE, the boys will work on their handwriting during this time...kind of warms them up for the day--let's their brains get awake before too much is required. :D
9:05-12:30
ELIJAH: 100 Easy Lessons (halfway done!), 1st Grade Math , Grammar, History will consist of An Island Story , Fifty Famous Stories Retold & Trial & Triumph (these are read alouds...the older two did these two years ago...but will hear them again with Elijah...Elijah will also work with them in their geography & history so that they cross over and learn from each others work)
Nathan & Daniel: Miquon Math , Grammar as listed in Elijah's just their grade levels-also working in Primary Language Lessons & Intermediate Language Lessons, All three boys will be working through Exploring Countries & Cultures .
EDITED TO ADD:
Spelling Power! (LOVE LOVE LOVE THIS PROGRAM!)
Lunch 12:30-1:15
1:30-3:00
All will work on keyboarding skills HERE
Math Facts Drills HERE
Spanish with Rosetta Stone
& finishing up any stuff from the a.m. sessions
Edited to Add:
I also use Ambleside Online & Old Fashioned Education as resources to supplement our stuff.
Daily Devotional & memory verse work, English From the Roots Up-Word of the Day, Art/Artist of the week etc. (I'm still building this...but you get these gist)
8:35-9:00-
Pre-K work with AE, the boys will work on their handwriting during this time...kind of warms them up for the day--let's their brains get awake before too much is required. :D
9:05-12:30
ELIJAH: 100 Easy Lessons (halfway done!), 1st Grade Math , Grammar, History will consist of An Island Story , Fifty Famous Stories Retold & Trial & Triumph (these are read alouds...the older two did these two years ago...but will hear them again with Elijah...Elijah will also work with them in their geography & history so that they cross over and learn from each others work)
Nathan & Daniel: Miquon Math , Grammar as listed in Elijah's just their grade levels-also working in Primary Language Lessons & Intermediate Language Lessons, All three boys will be working through Exploring Countries & Cultures .
EDITED TO ADD:
Spelling Power! (LOVE LOVE LOVE THIS PROGRAM!)
Lunch 12:30-1:15
1:30-3:00
All will work on keyboarding skills HERE
Math Facts Drills HERE
Spanish with Rosetta Stone
& finishing up any stuff from the a.m. sessions
Edited to Add:
I also use Ambleside Online & Old Fashioned Education as resources to supplement our stuff.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
The Enclave--A bloggy book tour
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Karen Hancock has won Christy Awards for each of her first four novels--Arena and the first three books in the Legends of the Guardian-King series, The Light of Eidon, The Shadow Within, and Shadow over Kiriath. She graduated from the University of Arizona with bachelor's degrees in biology and wildlife biology. Along with writing, she is a semi-professional watercolorist and has exhibited her work in a number of national juried shows. She and her family reside in Arizona.
ABOUT THE BOOK
When Lacey McHenry accepts a prestigious research fellowship at the world-renowned Kendell-Jakes Longevity Institute, she sees it as a new start on life. But a disturbing late-night encounter with an intruder leads to an unexpected cover-up by Institute authorities, and she soon realizes there's more going on than she ever imagined.
She finds a supporter in genetics researcher Cameron Reinhardt. However, Reinhardt is a favorite of the Institute's director, and she can't help wondering if he, too, is in on the cover-up. The brilliant but absentminded researcher turns out to have his own secrets, some of them dark and deadly. The Enclave is characterized by adventure, intrigue, spiritual analogy, and romance, all set in an unusual but fully realized world--one that may have its foundations on earth but which, the more one learns of it, doesn't seem much like the earth we know at all.
If you'd like to read the first chapter of The Enclave, go HERE
Wanna buy a copy? Go HERE
*****-----*****-----*****
I am currently reading this one. A branch off of my 'usual' reading--but such a good story and I'm really enjoying it, a lot!
Monday, July 20, 2009
Things Left Unspoken--a bloggy book tour
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Eva Marie Everson taught Old Testament theology for six years at Life Training Center in Longwood, Florida and has written numerous articles for Crosswalk.com (including the acclaimed Falling Into The Bible series), and has had articles featured in numerous publications, including Christianity Today, Evangel, Christian Bride, Christian Retailing, The Godly BusinessWoman and Marriage Partnership magazines. Eva Marie has been interviewed by radio, television, newspaper, and Internet media outlets. In 2002Eva Marie was one of six Christian journalists sent to Israel for a special ten-day press tour.
Eva Marie’s work includes the award-winning titles Reflections of God's Holy Land; A Personal Journey Through Israel, Shadow of Dreams, Sex, Lies and the Media, and The Potluck Club series.
She is married, has four children and five grandchildren, and lives in Central Florida.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Every family--and every house--has its secrets. Jo-Lynn Hunter is at a crossroads in life when her great-aunt Stella insists that she return home to restore the old family manse in sleepy Cottonwood, Georgia. Jo-Lynn longs to get her teeth into a noteworthy and satisfying project. And it's the perfect excuse for some therapeutic time away from her self-absorbed husband and his snobby Atlanta friends.
Beneath the dust and the peeling wallpaper, things are not what they seem, and what Jo-Lynn doesn't know about her family holds just as many surprises. Was her great-grandfather the pillar of the community she thought he was? What is Aunt Stella hiding? And will her own marriage survive the renovation? Jo-Lynn isn't sure she wants to know the truth--but sometimes the truth has a way of making itself known.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Things Left Unspoken, go HERE
Buy your copy HERE
****I really enjoyed this book. I love the way the story was weaved and the characters were built. I loved the realness of the Southern aspects and how she worked in parts of history into the story. Just a really, good read.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Award-winning author Shelley Adina wrote her first teen novel when she was 13. It was rejected by the literary publisher to whom she sent it, but he did say she knew how to tell a story. That was enough to keep her going through the rest of her adolescence, a career, a move to another country, a B.A. in Literature, an M.A. in Writing Popular Fiction, and countless manuscript pages.Shelley is a world traveler and pop culture junkie with an incurable addiction to designer handbags. She writes books about fun and faith--with a side of glamour. Between books, Shelley loves traveling, playing the piano and Celtic harp, watching movies, and making period costumes.
The All About Us book series has its own home over on the Hachette website. Stop by and see what the five fabulous girls at Spencer Acadenmy are up to! Series Website.
Her other books in this series includes book one, It's All About Us, oook Two, The Fruit of my Lipstick, and book three, Be Strong & Curvaceous. This present book is book four.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Shani Hanna returns to SpencerAcademy for her senior year after an amazing summer spent with her friends Lissa, Gillian, and Carly. But the best part about summer was meeting Danyel Johnstone. Danyel is cute, smart, cool, and super nice. All Shani has to do is get him to see her as more than just one of the gang.But when the girls return to school, they find a new addition to the distinguished student body: Prince Rashid al Amir of Yasir, an oil-rich desert kingdom in the Middle East. Prince Rashid moved to California to prepare for an eventual MBA at Stanford...and to romance his future wife: Shani Hanna!
It turns out, Shani's family and the prince's go back for generations, entwined in tradition, obligation, and family honor. In each generation, members of the two families have expanded their business interests through arranged marriage. Will Shani put aside her feelings for Danyel to pursue her family's wishes? Or will God answer her prayers for an intervention?
If you would like to read the first chapter of Who Made You a Princess , go HERE
Sunday, July 12, 2009
a lot
that's it
a lot
heh, that pretty much sums up things. I feel like everything, happens, a lot.
I've been researching curriculum and putting together next years stuff, a lot.
I've been working on weeds in my childrens lives, a lot.
I've been working on weeds in my life, and fleshly attitudes within myself, a lot.
I've been working in the garden, a lot.
I've been working on that stinking pool, a lot.
I've been reading a lot.
I've been emotiona, a lot.
a lot.
The curriculum is coming together--I'm still making some decisions, not sure what the final decision will be..but that brings me to my next little blurb. :)
I'm taking the next two weeks to restart. I made my summer goals and I can honestly say that I am not displeased with my progress in all areas--BUT, the last week and a half or so has served to distract enough that I feel like I need to REFOCUS. That is what I plan to do. Two weeks of focused attention on diet, exercise and plans for schooling.
My twin from another mother, Alicia-sent me a delicious journal and I plan to dive into it during this time too.
My mom currently is suffering from shingles--my kiddos were not vaccinated with the chicken pox vaccine and have yet to have them--so I am assuming I will have at least one kiddo come down with that in the next 2 ish weeks...but we'll have to wait and see.
I pulled out "my utmost for his highest'' this weekend. It has always been one of my favorite 'go to' devotionals. I love Oswald. I love how he shares Truth!
I'm scared about a lot of different things. Not scared like, fearful. Just scared of the unknown. I'm thankful that God goes before me.
I'm learning that it's ok to say things are not ok. People don't recoil in horror or surprise when they realize you are having a yucky day.
I love the Psalms. I identify with David, so often.
I was reminded again, that you just never know what people are dealing with today. It's so easy to just assume. I am praying that God keeps me aware. That I stop long enough to really talk and more importantly to listen . I have been so guilty of not doing that.
I pray that this week is a good one for yall! We are half way done with summer. WOW.
a lot
heh, that pretty much sums up things. I feel like everything, happens, a lot.
I've been researching curriculum and putting together next years stuff, a lot.
I've been working on weeds in my childrens lives, a lot.
I've been working on weeds in my life, and fleshly attitudes within myself, a lot.
I've been working in the garden, a lot.
I've been working on that stinking pool, a lot.
I've been reading a lot.
I've been emotiona, a lot.
a lot.
The curriculum is coming together--I'm still making some decisions, not sure what the final decision will be..but that brings me to my next little blurb. :)
I'm taking the next two weeks to restart. I made my summer goals and I can honestly say that I am not displeased with my progress in all areas--BUT, the last week and a half or so has served to distract enough that I feel like I need to REFOCUS. That is what I plan to do. Two weeks of focused attention on diet, exercise and plans for schooling.
My twin from another mother, Alicia-sent me a delicious journal and I plan to dive into it during this time too.
My mom currently is suffering from shingles--my kiddos were not vaccinated with the chicken pox vaccine and have yet to have them--so I am assuming I will have at least one kiddo come down with that in the next 2 ish weeks...but we'll have to wait and see.
I pulled out "my utmost for his highest'' this weekend. It has always been one of my favorite 'go to' devotionals. I love Oswald. I love how he shares Truth!
I'm scared about a lot of different things. Not scared like, fearful. Just scared of the unknown. I'm thankful that God goes before me.
I'm learning that it's ok to say things are not ok. People don't recoil in horror or surprise when they realize you are having a yucky day.
I love the Psalms. I identify with David, so often.
I was reminded again, that you just never know what people are dealing with today. It's so easy to just assume. I am praying that God keeps me aware. That I stop long enough to really talk and more importantly to listen . I have been so guilty of not doing that.
I pray that this week is a good one for yall! We are half way done with summer. WOW.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
four
today she turns four
she loves pink & sparkly
toenail polish
purses
and
shoes
she is high drama
and can turn it on and off like a switch
she has the most animated facial expressions
and the purest heart
she's grumpy upon waking
& loves cinnamon toast
she pushes the cat around in the stroller and craddles it like a baby
she swims like a fish and has no fear
she's a master of the front roll
her ABC's
shapes
colors
and counting
she wants to learn.to.read.
she loves to snuggle
and rub your ear as she falls asleep
she twirls with no regard to who may be watching
she's magic
little miss magic
out of all that I've done wrong
I must have done something right
to be blessed with the chance
for her to call me
Momma.
happy birthday, anna-elizabeth
everyday with you is my favorite
she loves pink & sparkly
toenail polish
purses
and
shoes
she is high drama
and can turn it on and off like a switch
she has the most animated facial expressions
and the purest heart
she's grumpy upon waking
& loves cinnamon toast
she pushes the cat around in the stroller and craddles it like a baby
she swims like a fish and has no fear
she's a master of the front roll
her ABC's
shapes
colors
and counting
she wants to learn.to.read.
she loves to snuggle
and rub your ear as she falls asleep
she twirls with no regard to who may be watching
she's magic
little miss magic
out of all that I've done wrong
I must have done something right
to be blessed with the chance
for her to call me
Momma.
happy birthday, anna-elizabeth
everyday with you is my favorite
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Grace that is greater than all my sin [archive dive May 2006]
I yelled.
Today I yelled at my oldest child. I'm not proud of it. And I can say that I am not a yeller in general. Because really, yelling accomplishes nothing. And when someone yells at me...I simply tune them out. So for me I've always worked pretty hard not to be a yeller.
Well all that went by the wayside and I yelled.
And then I cried and felt like poo. I apologized for handling myself wrongly and asked for forgivness and it was given.
Later in the day I must have apologized again or mentioned it. Then as I was tucking him in I apologized again. He kind of sighed and said ''momma you've already apologized three times today. I forgive you''
And at that moment my son modeled Jesus to me, yet again. How often do I go to God and ask forgivness..only to go back and remind him I need forgivness time and time again. And all the while He's saying ''Cheri you've already asked, I've already given it...MOVE ON''
Why do we let our failures consume us? I'm not saying we should just brush it off when we fail. But the fact of the matter is we are human...we are flesh. We are not perfect. We ARE GOING TO FAIL. But the thing is, while failure is assured, wallowing in it is optional.
Sometimes I'm amazed at how blessed I am with these kiddos God has trusted me with.
Today I yelled at my oldest child. I'm not proud of it. And I can say that I am not a yeller in general. Because really, yelling accomplishes nothing. And when someone yells at me...I simply tune them out. So for me I've always worked pretty hard not to be a yeller.
Well all that went by the wayside and I yelled.
And then I cried and felt like poo. I apologized for handling myself wrongly and asked for forgivness and it was given.
Later in the day I must have apologized again or mentioned it. Then as I was tucking him in I apologized again. He kind of sighed and said ''momma you've already apologized three times today. I forgive you''
And at that moment my son modeled Jesus to me, yet again. How often do I go to God and ask forgivness..only to go back and remind him I need forgivness time and time again. And all the while He's saying ''Cheri you've already asked, I've already given it...MOVE ON''
Why do we let our failures consume us? I'm not saying we should just brush it off when we fail. But the fact of the matter is we are human...we are flesh. We are not perfect. We ARE GOING TO FAIL. But the thing is, while failure is assured, wallowing in it is optional.
Sometimes I'm amazed at how blessed I am with these kiddos God has trusted me with.
Sunday, June 28, 2009
grace that amazes...
tonight I talked with someone after church. She and her husband visited both this morning and tonight.
she was cheerful & fun and her beauty was radiant.
she was a grandmom and Iwas amazed. I mean I want to look like that when I'm a grandmom. :)
she was open and honest and sweet and
well
you (or I)
just never imagined the pain she was carrying
the hurt and wondering
oh but she was
as we stood and talked for a while, she opened up a bit and shared a grief she was walking through.
all of my assumptions about her shiny happy life were put into perspective.
she was brokenhearted
hurt
and in pain
but she was breathing grace
living grace
because without it
she couldn't have made it.
I was reminded as we drove to Cracker Barrel to eat post service, that you simply never, ever know what people are walking through. You can think you know. You can assume based on what they show you. But sometimes people are carrying a pain that is heavy and hard.
I was touched by her choice to fall on grace...
to admit her not understanding things...
to admit that it wasn't fair...
to admit her anger...
and continued saddness.
I was drawn to her because despite a life that is not what she wanted or thought it would be-a life that has hurt her and disappointed her...
she was still beautiful
within
I was amazed by her grace.
she was cheerful & fun and her beauty was radiant.
she was a grandmom and Iwas amazed. I mean I want to look like that when I'm a grandmom. :)
she was open and honest and sweet and
well
you (or I)
just never imagined the pain she was carrying
the hurt and wondering
oh but she was
as we stood and talked for a while, she opened up a bit and shared a grief she was walking through.
all of my assumptions about her shiny happy life were put into perspective.
she was brokenhearted
hurt
and in pain
but she was breathing grace
living grace
because without it
she couldn't have made it.
I was reminded as we drove to Cracker Barrel to eat post service, that you simply never, ever know what people are walking through. You can think you know. You can assume based on what they show you. But sometimes people are carrying a pain that is heavy and hard.
I was touched by her choice to fall on grace...
to admit her not understanding things...
to admit that it wasn't fair...
to admit her anger...
and continued saddness.
I was drawn to her because despite a life that is not what she wanted or thought it would be-a life that has hurt her and disappointed her...
she was still beautiful
within
I was amazed by her grace.
[archives dive] Of toothpicks and telephone poles...
Of toothpicks and telephone poles...
And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam [is] in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye. Matthew 7:3-5 KJV
3 "Why do you look at the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? 4 "Or how can you say to your brother, `Let me take the speck out of your eye,' and behold, the log is in your own eye? 5 "You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye. Matthew 7:3-5 NAS
Or like I had a friend in college say, ''it's toothpicks and telephone poles.
It's amazing how we as Christians, who only merit salvation purely through mercy and grace, so often don't extend those two things to others.
We take for granted the journey of our sanctification...and hold others to the standards and place that we are, without allowing the Holy Spirit to do that work.
I know that there are those that would read my blog and see that I dared to put the KJV with the NAS and they would have no respect for this post or it's intent. And you know what? There is just nothing I can do about that. And to clarify my above statement. Salvation is not a process. Salvation is instantaneous. But sanctification IS a process. And it is the place from where my blog is rooted.
Why do we nullify the journey God has brought us on, and the place He has brought us to, by projecting 'our' place on others?
How sweet of God to love us, to cherish us...to fill us with His Spirit, to give us His Word, which contains all truth. And then for us to pompously and pridefully, sit in a place of holiness and decide that others ''aren't quiet on par'' because of _________ or __________. (you just fill in the blank with whatever pet thing you want)
I have a friend that illustrated it so beautifully. Being a Christian is like being in school. You have all grade levels represented from K-12 and you even have college, and post grad and doctoral dissertation writers too. :) But we are all students in God's school. But what happens? Well you are going along, growing and learning, thankful for the cross and the gift of salvation. Praising God for your relationship, seeking to know Him and to have Him known. Then you hit about 6th grade, and suddenly you look over and there, there is a 4th grader who has the audacity to have ''Air Supply'' cd's in her house. (oh the horror, no really, AIR SUPPLY??? ewwww lol) and then you really begin to look around and low and behold if one of your very classmates isn't partaking of some "Must See TV". Oh how ungodly are they? How can they name the name of Christ and listen to that, and fill their temple with that???
Well see, you won't hear me defend the music or the TV shows. I won't. But you know what, this isn't about the music or the TV. It's about the heart of the student! The student looking around and not IN their own heart.The student naming names and calling sins. See, God purifies us, God sanctifies us. That is what God is in the business of doing. I earnestly believe that as we grow in the Lord and mature that things that we once had no issue with, will be something that we lay aside (Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset [us], and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Heb. 12:1) That is part of ''growing up in the Lord'
But it's when *we* try to become the teacher and we try to grow others up to our ''height'' that the problem comes. Because it is at that time, that we have become filled with pride, with ''who we are'' and not whose we are, with ''what we know'' and not who we know. We lose focus on the grace and mercy that so sovereignly brought us to the place we are and that continues to grow us into who He wants us to become. If we could all (myself ,especially) stop looking around at our classmates and just keep our eyes on the Master Teacher, we'd spend a lot less time at recess calling our schoolmates names.
And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. Mark 12:30
More About Jesus
More about Jesus would I know,
More of His grace to others show;
More of His saving fullness see,
More of His love Who died for me.
More, more about Jesus,
More, more about Jesus;
More of His saving fullness see,More of His love Who died for me.
More about Jesus let me learn,
More of His holy will discern;
Spirit of God, my teacher be,Showing the things of Christ to me.
More about Jesus; in His Word,
Holding communion with my Lord;
Hearing His voice in every line,Making each faithful saying mine.
More about Jesus; on His throne,
Riches in glory all His own;
More of His kingdom’s sure increase;
More of His coming, Prince of Peace.
And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam [is] in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye. Matthew 7:3-5 KJV
3 "Why do you look at the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? 4 "Or how can you say to your brother, `Let me take the speck out of your eye,' and behold, the log is in your own eye? 5 "You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye. Matthew 7:3-5 NAS
Or like I had a friend in college say, ''it's toothpicks and telephone poles.
It's amazing how we as Christians, who only merit salvation purely through mercy and grace, so often don't extend those two things to others.
We take for granted the journey of our sanctification...and hold others to the standards and place that we are, without allowing the Holy Spirit to do that work.
I know that there are those that would read my blog and see that I dared to put the KJV with the NAS and they would have no respect for this post or it's intent. And you know what? There is just nothing I can do about that. And to clarify my above statement. Salvation is not a process. Salvation is instantaneous. But sanctification IS a process. And it is the place from where my blog is rooted.
Why do we nullify the journey God has brought us on, and the place He has brought us to, by projecting 'our' place on others?
How sweet of God to love us, to cherish us...to fill us with His Spirit, to give us His Word, which contains all truth. And then for us to pompously and pridefully, sit in a place of holiness and decide that others ''aren't quiet on par'' because of _________ or __________. (you just fill in the blank with whatever pet thing you want)
I have a friend that illustrated it so beautifully. Being a Christian is like being in school. You have all grade levels represented from K-12 and you even have college, and post grad and doctoral dissertation writers too. :) But we are all students in God's school. But what happens? Well you are going along, growing and learning, thankful for the cross and the gift of salvation. Praising God for your relationship, seeking to know Him and to have Him known. Then you hit about 6th grade, and suddenly you look over and there, there is a 4th grader who has the audacity to have ''Air Supply'' cd's in her house. (oh the horror, no really, AIR SUPPLY??? ewwww lol) and then you really begin to look around and low and behold if one of your very classmates isn't partaking of some "Must See TV". Oh how ungodly are they? How can they name the name of Christ and listen to that, and fill their temple with that???
Well see, you won't hear me defend the music or the TV shows. I won't. But you know what, this isn't about the music or the TV. It's about the heart of the student! The student looking around and not IN their own heart.The student naming names and calling sins. See, God purifies us, God sanctifies us. That is what God is in the business of doing. I earnestly believe that as we grow in the Lord and mature that things that we once had no issue with, will be something that we lay aside (Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset [us], and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Heb. 12:1) That is part of ''growing up in the Lord'
But it's when *we* try to become the teacher and we try to grow others up to our ''height'' that the problem comes. Because it is at that time, that we have become filled with pride, with ''who we are'' and not whose we are, with ''what we know'' and not who we know. We lose focus on the grace and mercy that so sovereignly brought us to the place we are and that continues to grow us into who He wants us to become. If we could all (myself ,especially) stop looking around at our classmates and just keep our eyes on the Master Teacher, we'd spend a lot less time at recess calling our schoolmates names.
And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. Mark 12:30
More About Jesus
More about Jesus would I know,
More of His grace to others show;
More of His saving fullness see,
More of His love Who died for me.
More, more about Jesus,
More, more about Jesus;
More of His saving fullness see,More of His love Who died for me.
More about Jesus let me learn,
More of His holy will discern;
Spirit of God, my teacher be,Showing the things of Christ to me.
More about Jesus; in His Word,
Holding communion with my Lord;
Hearing His voice in every line,Making each faithful saying mine.
More about Jesus; on His throne,
Riches in glory all His own;
More of His kingdom’s sure increase;
More of His coming, Prince of Peace.
Friday, June 26, 2009
various
I have about 11 million misquito bitotes on my legs. I picked green beans tonight and was feasted upon by the bugs.
I have a sunburn...I'm not complaining.
I have to start working on AE's bday stuffs!
AE is sitting here watching "campop'' (camp rock! lol)
I have a rash on my arm. It happened a few weeks ago too and I thought it was a fluke-however now I've attached it to body oil I've been using. I guess I have some allergy --ad it. makes me sad, cause I loved that stuff.
I've been working on putting curriculum stuff together the last couple of days. I've almost got stuff all together.
I can't believe June is almost over-seriously, didn't we just have Christmas? LOL
and with all these tantilizing tidbits I'm off for the night. My head is swimming with about a million thoughts. I'm off to read for a bit. I hope the weekend treats you well.
I have a sunburn...I'm not complaining.
I have to start working on AE's bday stuffs!
AE is sitting here watching "campop'' (camp rock! lol)
I have a rash on my arm. It happened a few weeks ago too and I thought it was a fluke-however now I've attached it to body oil I've been using. I guess I have some allergy --ad it. makes me sad, cause I loved that stuff.
I've been working on putting curriculum stuff together the last couple of days. I've almost got stuff all together.
I can't believe June is almost over-seriously, didn't we just have Christmas? LOL
and with all these tantilizing tidbits I'm off for the night. My head is swimming with about a million thoughts. I'm off to read for a bit. I hope the weekend treats you well.
some Friday happy...
Things making me happy...make your list....post it...sign Mr. Linky over at Bedky's! (www.beckyperry.us)
--sleeping in
--coffee
--a little girl that loves swimming & swims like a fish with no fears
--boys that get super dee dooper excited about a movie
--grace for the moment
What's making you happy today?
--sleeping in
--coffee
--a little girl that loves swimming & swims like a fish with no fears
--boys that get super dee dooper excited about a movie
--grace for the moment
What's making you happy today?
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Things I am really, really enjoying so far this summer...
Sun-lots of time in the sun...sunscreen & reading. Vit D is making me a happy person.
Psalms, Proverbs, Phillipians, E.M. Bounds, Brother Lawrence
THIS stuff has been magic this summer ...with all the sun and chlorine (plus the fact my hair is color treated) it could be a mess--but that conditioner is keeping my hair soft and preebee!
THESE are my new love. Swoon!!!!!
I realize you probably already are aware of the AWESOME that is Pandora.com...but if not, UM, why haven't you discovered it??? Pandora is just awesome.
Oh, and THIS is my favorite post pool lotion....it smells like a dreamcicle. :)
Psalms, Proverbs, Phillipians, E.M. Bounds, Brother Lawrence
THIS stuff has been magic this summer ...with all the sun and chlorine (plus the fact my hair is color treated) it could be a mess--but that conditioner is keeping my hair soft and preebee!
THESE are my new love. Swoon!!!!!
I realize you probably already are aware of the AWESOME that is Pandora.com...but if not, UM, why haven't you discovered it??? Pandora is just awesome.
Oh, and THIS is my favorite post pool lotion....it smells like a dreamcicle. :)
Monday, June 22, 2009
Goings on...
Figs growing
sunburned noses
messes of squash
bountiful gardens
old tractors
cute CUTE puppies
cholorined eyes
chickens and chicks
roots!
promises of cucumbers soon!
finally, a level pool
beans galore
hot exhaused kitties
I love summer. :)
Now it's almost time for supper--fried squash, oh how I love thee! :)
and
I started a new book for review
yay!
I still haven't started reading ''to kill a mockingbird''
but I will
and I have to find a history resource for this fall for the 3rd and 5th grader.
any suggestions?
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Sunday Evening Post...
I'm properly sun tired and looking forward to bedtime.
This past week has contained an utter basketful of things I never imagined. My heart is breaking for friends walking through pain they never volunteered for--it's times like this that it's hard to grasp how ''all things work together for good.'' However, I know they do. I *know* God is good. I know He has a *good* plan. I know He has gone before and provided they way--even when the circumstances and happenings seem so painful. He is there-right in the middle of it. There is a comfort in that assurance--even when everything is swirling and crazy. God. is. good. period.
I have spent this week in Mitford. I'm reading "Light From Heaven" the last in the Mitford series. I love this series of books. I remember a few years ago referring to them as my ''favorite blue jeans'' of books. They are quaint and sweet and simple and comfortable and home. I used to try to be a fast reader--and I can be--but one thing I've done lately is slow down and enjoy reading, for readings sake. I used to have several books going at one time--now I'm only reading one at a time.
My days this past week were filled with lots of manual labor (pool pics soon), sun time and reading as I fell asleep. I don't think there is a better feeling than working hard, physically pushing yourself to your limit and then retiring for the night with about 30 mins of a book.
I think I spent maybe an hour and a half in total on the computer this week. You know what...I didn't miss it. My days and the damands of them are shifting. It's kind of neat. lol
There is a quote in Light From Heaven that I'll be posting-it's settled in with me and made its home in my mind--it's a good one. :)
For now, it's time to rub a little girlie who is sunkissed with some after sun lotion and get her to bed.
I hope the week ahead holds good things for you.
This past week has contained an utter basketful of things I never imagined. My heart is breaking for friends walking through pain they never volunteered for--it's times like this that it's hard to grasp how ''all things work together for good.'' However, I know they do. I *know* God is good. I know He has a *good* plan. I know He has gone before and provided they way--even when the circumstances and happenings seem so painful. He is there-right in the middle of it. There is a comfort in that assurance--even when everything is swirling and crazy. God. is. good. period.
I have spent this week in Mitford. I'm reading "Light From Heaven" the last in the Mitford series. I love this series of books. I remember a few years ago referring to them as my ''favorite blue jeans'' of books. They are quaint and sweet and simple and comfortable and home. I used to try to be a fast reader--and I can be--but one thing I've done lately is slow down and enjoy reading, for readings sake. I used to have several books going at one time--now I'm only reading one at a time.
My days this past week were filled with lots of manual labor (pool pics soon), sun time and reading as I fell asleep. I don't think there is a better feeling than working hard, physically pushing yourself to your limit and then retiring for the night with about 30 mins of a book.
I think I spent maybe an hour and a half in total on the computer this week. You know what...I didn't miss it. My days and the damands of them are shifting. It's kind of neat. lol
There is a quote in Light From Heaven that I'll be posting-it's settled in with me and made its home in my mind--it's a good one. :)
For now, it's time to rub a little girlie who is sunkissed with some after sun lotion and get her to bed.
I hope the week ahead holds good things for you.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Monday, Monday...
Our trip to South Carolina was nice. We spent Saturday at Folly Beach--so pretty, and uber mega crowded. :)
I spent a lot of time thinking-about a lot, and nothing in particular.
I enjoy blogging, but I don't know how faithful I'll be this summer. I don't want to feel like I HAVE to update...but I also know I hate when I read a blog and they just don't update. KWIM With that being said. I promise to blog updates regarding my ''alive and active'' progress. I will have some book reviews too. I just don't think it's going to be a daily thing.
Today Elijah has therapy from 10:30-12:00 then we have the rest of the day in front of us. I really need to start working on our school year calendar and laying out holidays etc.
Right now, I need coffee. :)
I spent a lot of time thinking-about a lot, and nothing in particular.
I enjoy blogging, but I don't know how faithful I'll be this summer. I don't want to feel like I HAVE to update...but I also know I hate when I read a blog and they just don't update. KWIM With that being said. I promise to blog updates regarding my ''alive and active'' progress. I will have some book reviews too. I just don't think it's going to be a daily thing.
Today Elijah has therapy from 10:30-12:00 then we have the rest of the day in front of us. I really need to start working on our school year calendar and laying out holidays etc.
Right now, I need coffee. :)
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Hope
Now to him who is able to do in full measure more than all our desires or thoughts, through the power which is working in us. Eph. 3:20
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Saturday Something...
I don't remember how I found Nie Nie's blog...
I know that I spent every Saturday morning, in Montana soaking up her stuff from the week.
Seriously.
I wouldn't read her blog all week-I would save it for Saturday.
I would get up early, fix coffee and read Stephanie.
She made me happy. She made the day to day of life something to celebrate.
She gloried in her girliness...in her home...in her family.
I fell in love with her blog. With her creativity. With her passion.
I woke one Saturday morning to find Stephanie had been in a near fatal plane crash.
That is when the world met Stephanie.
She has thousands of blog readers now-she is spreading that sunshine still.
In the midst of very hard days she still glories in her girliness.
She still adores her kids.
She still loves her Mr. Nielson.
She is still passionate.
She still inspires.
Today I share with you Nie Nie.
Go.
Get some coffee.
Read the archives.
She's amazing.
{today is also my college friend, Jennifer (Thompson/Dugger's) bday. I have no idea if she still reads--but if so...HAPPY HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY NAMEBRAND :D
I know that I spent every Saturday morning, in Montana soaking up her stuff from the week.
Seriously.
I wouldn't read her blog all week-I would save it for Saturday.
I would get up early, fix coffee and read Stephanie.
She made me happy. She made the day to day of life something to celebrate.
She gloried in her girliness...in her home...in her family.
I fell in love with her blog. With her creativity. With her passion.
I woke one Saturday morning to find Stephanie had been in a near fatal plane crash.
That is when the world met Stephanie.
She has thousands of blog readers now-she is spreading that sunshine still.
In the midst of very hard days she still glories in her girliness.
She still adores her kids.
She still loves her Mr. Nielson.
She is still passionate.
She still inspires.
Today I share with you Nie Nie.
Go.
Get some coffee.
Read the archives.
She's amazing.
{today is also my college friend, Jennifer (Thompson/Dugger's) bday. I have no idea if she still reads--but if so...HAPPY HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY NAMEBRAND :D
Friday, June 12, 2009
Friday! Yay! Friday!
Friday Felicities was started by Nattie Rose York-the little things that make you happy. Post yours and then drop by Bedky's and sign Mr. Linky.--road trips
--friendships
--grace
--music and memories
--hope
--diet coke & coffee
--the ocean
Things making my week:
Surprise sunflowers...finishing up a fun STAR crochet project...gardinias-even though I think the scent is overwhelming, these line the driveway and offer their gift to me every night when I'm out stargazing...flip flops with sparklies make forhappy feet!
I'm off to South Carolina for the weekend.
I'll possibly have some post up over the weekend-if I have some extra time to get them together.
Otherwise I'll see you Monday.
Thanks for reading.
Happy Weekend.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
100 Things
about me.
I've done this on every blog.
Since I am procrasting packing - here we go.
1. my name is cheri (shu ree...like marie...only sh rie) I have never met anyone that said it correctly.
2. My nickname growing up was Ri Ri...then Ri. My family still calls me Ri Ri. It makes me happy.
3. I was born in Georgia-but have lived in several states: Alabama (twice!), Mississippi, Kansas, Texas, New Mexico & Montana.
4. I've lived in a lot of cities in Georgia: Carrollton, Bremen, Tallapoosa, Auburn, Cleveland, Sand Hill (villa rica-ish)
5. I am 36 years old.
6. I love and adore my birthday-more than is normal.
7. I sing.
8. My first solo I was 4 and sang "He Did It All For Me"
9. I like to clean and organize things.
10. I put my dust pan and my trash can lid in the dishwasher.
11. I clean my washing machine & vaccum.
12. I don't care about other peoples stuff/junk/organization--that doesn't bother me, but *I* like to organize my stuff. You can do whatever you want to do.
13. I like music.
14. I will watch movies over and over if Ilike them. I have seen "You've Got Mail" no less than 50 times.
15. I also love Kate and Leopold.
16. Clearly, I am a fan of Meg Ryan. :)
17. I have neat handwriting.
18. I learned to crochet 3 years ago and I really, really love it. Like, love it like an old lady.
19. I am loud.
20. I am generally funny.
21. I am way sarcastic.
22. I am not easy to get to know. I mean, really get to know.
23. I like people-most of the time.
24. I am judgmental by default.
25. I am being humbled-daily.
26. I like water with lime.
27. I love chocolate.
28. Coffee makes me way happy.
29. I have never had alcohol.
30. #29 is not me 'bragging' I'm just saying-I've never had it--and it holds no appeal for me.
31. I have four kids.
32. 3 boys.
33. 1 girl
34. we are at the beginning of bday season...girl in july, boy 2 in august, boy 1 in Sept and boy 3 in October.
35. I homeschool and I am thankful I am able too.
36. I love road trips.
37. I have flown one time.
38. I am not scared of flying-but I don't like it so much. I'd rather drive. Even with four kids.
39. I am insecure.
40. I care what people think.
41. I am often intimidated.
42. I don't think most people realize #39, 40 or 41.
43. I love to cook.
44. I love to bake.
45. I love to lose myself in a book.
46. I love good conversation.
47. I love laughing.
48. I prefer showers.
49. I like a bath...BUT it is always followed by a shower.
50. I don't understand sitting in your dirt and not washing it off. LOL
51. Diet Coke is my vice of choice.
52. I like words.
53. I like blowing bubbles.
54. I like catching lightening bugs.
55. I wonder if I will ever feel like an adult.
56. I am going back to college.
57. My previous stint in college was great socially. :)
58. This go round I'm focusing on academics.
59. College was probably some of my best memories.
60. I get my feelings hurt pretty easily.
61. This is another thing that isn't something people readily guess about me.
62. I wear a size 11 shoe.
63. It was a 9 before kids.
64. I had 4 kids in 7 years.
65. I was either pregnant or nursing for 10 years straight.
66. My body totally looks like I was pregnant or nursing for 10 years straight-regardless of weight loss.LOL
67. I was not attractive pregnant-I was fat. LOL
68. I can almost palm a basket ball.
69. I am 5 ft 6.5 inches tall.
70. I really, really, really want to be 5'9''
71. I love flip flops.
72. Fall is my favorite season.
73. Well, it ties with Spring.
74. Christmas is my favorite holiday.
75. Other than my birthday.
76. I love prizes.
77. Not expensive stuff ...but little things that let me know you were thinking of me.
78. I have a good memory for bdays and numbers.
79. "Great Is Thy Faithfulness'' is my favorite hymn.
80. My hair is long.
81. My hair is naturally blonde-but went pretty dark with each pregnancy. Thus I started coloring it and I've been every shade from blonde to red. Right now I'm blonde. It feels right.
82. My hair is longer now than it's been in a long, long time. I fight having it cut daily.
83. I don't have a favorite color-it changes.
84. I secretly would love to be a writer. A really good writer who's (edited "whose" dude...Pattie you let that slide... :D ) words touch people.
85. I love khaki and black together.
86. My Daddy makes myheart smile.
87. We disagree and argue but at the core-he amazes me.
88. I love potatoes fried in a black skillet.
89. I love to take pictures.
90. Dogs are my favorite animals.
91. I am so not a fan of cats.
92. Kittens are ok-till they turn to cats. ;)
93. Sometimes I wish I could be 18 with the knowledge of now.
94. Psalm 27 is my favorite book & chapter of the bible...verse 14 is my favorite verse.
95. I love to sit at the ocean when it's dark and hear the waves crash, look into the sky with a million stars and whisper, ''wow''--because it is at that moment that I feel closest to God.
96. I admire quiet strength.
97. I love folding laundry.
98. I have a very keen sense of smell.
99. I love cemetaries-especially old cemetaries. (true!)
100. What else do you want to know...
I've done this on every blog.
Since I am procrasting packing - here we go.
1. my name is cheri (shu ree...like marie...only sh rie) I have never met anyone that said it correctly.
2. My nickname growing up was Ri Ri...then Ri. My family still calls me Ri Ri. It makes me happy.
3. I was born in Georgia-but have lived in several states: Alabama (twice!), Mississippi, Kansas, Texas, New Mexico & Montana.
4. I've lived in a lot of cities in Georgia: Carrollton, Bremen, Tallapoosa, Auburn, Cleveland, Sand Hill (villa rica-ish)
5. I am 36 years old.
6. I love and adore my birthday-more than is normal.
7. I sing.
8. My first solo I was 4 and sang "He Did It All For Me"
9. I like to clean and organize things.
10. I put my dust pan and my trash can lid in the dishwasher.
11. I clean my washing machine & vaccum.
12. I don't care about other peoples stuff/junk/organization--that doesn't bother me, but *I* like to organize my stuff. You can do whatever you want to do.
13. I like music.
14. I will watch movies over and over if Ilike them. I have seen "You've Got Mail" no less than 50 times.
15. I also love Kate and Leopold.
16. Clearly, I am a fan of Meg Ryan. :)
17. I have neat handwriting.
18. I learned to crochet 3 years ago and I really, really love it. Like, love it like an old lady.
19. I am loud.
20. I am generally funny.
21. I am way sarcastic.
22. I am not easy to get to know. I mean, really get to know.
23. I like people-most of the time.
24. I am judgmental by default.
25. I am being humbled-daily.
26. I like water with lime.
27. I love chocolate.
28. Coffee makes me way happy.
29. I have never had alcohol.
30. #29 is not me 'bragging' I'm just saying-I've never had it--and it holds no appeal for me.
31. I have four kids.
32. 3 boys.
33. 1 girl
34. we are at the beginning of bday season...girl in july, boy 2 in august, boy 1 in Sept and boy 3 in October.
35. I homeschool and I am thankful I am able too.
36. I love road trips.
37. I have flown one time.
38. I am not scared of flying-but I don't like it so much. I'd rather drive. Even with four kids.
39. I am insecure.
40. I care what people think.
41. I am often intimidated.
42. I don't think most people realize #39, 40 or 41.
43. I love to cook.
44. I love to bake.
45. I love to lose myself in a book.
46. I love good conversation.
47. I love laughing.
48. I prefer showers.
49. I like a bath...BUT it is always followed by a shower.
50. I don't understand sitting in your dirt and not washing it off. LOL
51. Diet Coke is my vice of choice.
52. I like words.
53. I like blowing bubbles.
54. I like catching lightening bugs.
55. I wonder if I will ever feel like an adult.
56. I am going back to college.
57. My previous stint in college was great socially. :)
58. This go round I'm focusing on academics.
59. College was probably some of my best memories.
60. I get my feelings hurt pretty easily.
61. This is another thing that isn't something people readily guess about me.
62. I wear a size 11 shoe.
63. It was a 9 before kids.
64. I had 4 kids in 7 years.
65. I was either pregnant or nursing for 10 years straight.
66. My body totally looks like I was pregnant or nursing for 10 years straight-regardless of weight loss.LOL
67. I was not attractive pregnant-I was fat. LOL
68. I can almost palm a basket ball.
69. I am 5 ft 6.5 inches tall.
70. I really, really, really want to be 5'9''
71. I love flip flops.
72. Fall is my favorite season.
73. Well, it ties with Spring.
74. Christmas is my favorite holiday.
75. Other than my birthday.
76. I love prizes.
77. Not expensive stuff ...but little things that let me know you were thinking of me.
78. I have a good memory for bdays and numbers.
79. "Great Is Thy Faithfulness'' is my favorite hymn.
80. My hair is long.
81. My hair is naturally blonde-but went pretty dark with each pregnancy. Thus I started coloring it and I've been every shade from blonde to red. Right now I'm blonde. It feels right.
82. My hair is longer now than it's been in a long, long time. I fight having it cut daily.
83. I don't have a favorite color-it changes.
84. I secretly would love to be a writer. A really good writer who's (edited "whose" dude...Pattie you let that slide... :D ) words touch people.
85. I love khaki and black together.
86. My Daddy makes myheart smile.
87. We disagree and argue but at the core-he amazes me.
88. I love potatoes fried in a black skillet.
89. I love to take pictures.
90. Dogs are my favorite animals.
91. I am so not a fan of cats.
92. Kittens are ok-till they turn to cats. ;)
93. Sometimes I wish I could be 18 with the knowledge of now.
94. Psalm 27 is my favorite book & chapter of the bible...verse 14 is my favorite verse.
95. I love to sit at the ocean when it's dark and hear the waves crash, look into the sky with a million stars and whisper, ''wow''--because it is at that moment that I feel closest to God.
96. I admire quiet strength.
97. I love folding laundry.
98. I have a very keen sense of smell.
99. I love cemetaries-especially old cemetaries. (true!)
100. What else do you want to know...
Manic, uh, Thursday...
I slept in today...a lot like till 9:45 & folks that just doesn't happen.
I'm not going to excuse it away, either. I rarely sleep late-I sure am not going to apologize for it. :)
Today I have errands to do and my truck needs cleaned out desparately. I also have laundry and packing to do.
This time tomorrow I'll be heading to South Carolina for the weekend.
I hope yall have a good one.
I'm not going to excuse it away, either. I rarely sleep late-I sure am not going to apologize for it. :)
Today I have errands to do and my truck needs cleaned out desparately. I also have laundry and packing to do.
This time tomorrow I'll be heading to South Carolina for the weekend.
I hope yall have a good one.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Midnight Evaluations
I read an article once about looking back over your day and making judgments at midnight.
It basically said, you shouldn't.
Heh!
I don't know if I've mentioned it here, but a few weeks back my mom got one of those 4 ft above ground pools for the grandkids.
Set up in 15 mins
[waits for laughter to stop]
You should know that my parents live on an incline...
that makes for an unlevel pool.
You should also know it makes for about 3 weeks worth of work
on getting it set up
It has included two family gatherings with men folks using sand and math to level pool...
filling it up
it being oval instead of round and not filling correctly...
so then
we (well, that would be my Dad) spends about $500 on lumber
and at yet another family gathering
the menfolk build a platform
lots of time
sweat
leveling
sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeet
level
pool
fill that baby up
er
um
uh
it was all good
till
it wasn't
and the weight of the water
and a few of the braced 2x4's didn't agree
and the 2x4's broke
thus buckling the plywood platform
and making it jut up into the bottom of the pool
thus
making it have to be drained
so that a hole isn't punched into the liner
so
here we are
three weeks later
three attempts later
and no pool
but a lot of disappointment
My life, today, at this midnight evaluation, feels a lot like that pool (to use it as a metaphor).
And that sounds way dramatic-huh?
But if I had to be honest.
That's what I'd tell you.
I feel like I've done things.
I've worked on things.
I've tried.
and I've failed.
and here I am
all this time later
all these tries later
and still no pool
but a good bit of disaappointment.
(again, dramatic, no?)
I've never been where I am in my life before...
and it's not where I ever imagined I would be...
and yet here I am
trying to get it level
again
It basically said, you shouldn't.
Heh!
I don't know if I've mentioned it here, but a few weeks back my mom got one of those 4 ft above ground pools for the grandkids.
Set up in 15 mins
[waits for laughter to stop]
You should know that my parents live on an incline...
that makes for an unlevel pool.
You should also know it makes for about 3 weeks worth of work
on getting it set up
It has included two family gatherings with men folks using sand and math to level pool...
filling it up
it being oval instead of round and not filling correctly...
so then
we (well, that would be my Dad) spends about $500 on lumber
and at yet another family gathering
the menfolk build a platform
lots of time
sweat
leveling
sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeet
level
pool
fill that baby up
er
um
uh
it was all good
till
it wasn't
and the weight of the water
and a few of the braced 2x4's didn't agree
and the 2x4's broke
thus buckling the plywood platform
and making it jut up into the bottom of the pool
thus
making it have to be drained
so that a hole isn't punched into the liner
so
here we are
three weeks later
three attempts later
and no pool
but a lot of disappointment
My life, today, at this midnight evaluation, feels a lot like that pool (to use it as a metaphor).
And that sounds way dramatic-huh?
But if I had to be honest.
That's what I'd tell you.
I feel like I've done things.
I've worked on things.
I've tried.
and I've failed.
and here I am
all this time later
all these tries later
and still no pool
but a good bit of disaappointment.
(again, dramatic, no?)
I've never been where I am in my life before...
and it's not where I ever imagined I would be...
and yet here I am
trying to get it level
again
Just breath...
That has become my motto as of late...
just breath...
questions surround me...
ideas...
thoughts...
contridictions in thoughts...
opinions...
peoples words...
it all swirls and cycles and my brain hurts.
I can rest in knowing God knows. I can rest in knowing that I can trust that.
I can also admit my human-ness, and how easily I get swept into it all.
Some days are hard.
Those days I remind myself....
just breath.
just breath...
questions surround me...
ideas...
thoughts...
contridictions in thoughts...
opinions...
peoples words...
it all swirls and cycles and my brain hurts.
I can rest in knowing God knows. I can rest in knowing that I can trust that.
I can also admit my human-ness, and how easily I get swept into it all.
Some days are hard.
Those days I remind myself....
just breath.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Simple Summer
For Today...
Outside my window... I see the sun shining and butterflies flitting around the butterfly bush
I am thinking... of what needs to get done today and this week--making mental list...
From the learning rooms... school is done we will be working on some stuff & I am excited about getting the basement ready for school this fall.
I am thankful for... the little things, for family and for friends
From the kitchen...coffee so far this morning...
I am wearing... cozy clothes-black bottoms with tiny pink polka dots & a huge black tee.
I am reading... The Spirit of Sweetgrass, Psalms, Proverbs
I am hoping... to enjoy this summer like never before...
I am creating... a star afghan
I am praying... for grace, moment by moment
Around the house... chatter from AE...background noise provided by History channel, boys in the other room doing their puter time for the day.
One of my favorite things... summer days full of summerness. :)
A few plans for the rest of the week... Therapy today for Elijah...going to Bremen this afternoon to get the cousins for ''cousins camp'' this week...church on Wednesday...cleaning up the truck...packing...leaving Friday to take the kiddos to see their Dad in Charleston for the weekend...yay, for the ocean....yay for roadtrips.
Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...
hee, my birthday weekend shirt...
Outside my window... I see the sun shining and butterflies flitting around the butterfly bush
I am thinking... of what needs to get done today and this week--making mental list...
From the learning rooms... school is done we will be working on some stuff & I am excited about getting the basement ready for school this fall.
I am thankful for... the little things, for family and for friends
From the kitchen...coffee so far this morning...
I am wearing... cozy clothes-black bottoms with tiny pink polka dots & a huge black tee.
I am reading... The Spirit of Sweetgrass, Psalms, Proverbs
I am hoping... to enjoy this summer like never before...
I am creating... a star afghan
I am praying... for grace, moment by moment
Around the house... chatter from AE...background noise provided by History channel, boys in the other room doing their puter time for the day.
One of my favorite things... summer days full of summerness. :)
A few plans for the rest of the week... Therapy today for Elijah...going to Bremen this afternoon to get the cousins for ''cousins camp'' this week...church on Wednesday...cleaning up the truck...packing...leaving Friday to take the kiddos to see their Dad in Charleston for the weekend...yay, for the ocean....yay for roadtrips.
Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...
hee, my birthday weekend shirt...
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