Our extra-Ordinary Life

Flashback Friday - March 9

2012-03-09T05:00:00.000-08:00

Today is L's very last elementary school fundraiser. By late evening M and I will be working at it while Hubby and L play bingo. By the end we'll all have paid lots of money for food we could have gotten cheaper at the restauraunt and then we'll be anxiously awaiting to see if we won a "basket". Flashback Fridays find me remembering times long before L was in school and help record memories that aren't in scrapbooks.

All the pictures in this post are from Albuquerque - we just hadn't made it there to live yet. We left Sedona for Hubby to go to grad school in Kentucky (full scholarship). Just because we like to do things crazy, we left most of our belongings in storage in Albuquerque and only took something like an 8 X 7 trailer of things for the year we'd be in KY. We left storage in ABQ, went to Oklahoma where we stayed for 6 weeks, visited ABQ for Father's Day and then moved to KY. A special thanks to Aunt who gave us a place to stay for the 6 weeks and helped us move and then to many family members who helped out in various ways while Hubby was in school.

This "garden" was so fun to visit! In the carrots, we're walking around as if we are underground with them. I'll spare L. with the description of what he was doing here! Both pictures have our "banana" strollers. It was actually an umbrella stroller - I'm not sure how it got it's other name. Anywho - we had two, one for each boy and we used them everywhere for a very long time.

This is at Hubby's grandmother's townhouse complex pool. Guaranteed I was not in it! No matter how hot it is, swimming in Abq. is usually freezing (even if the water is okay, getting out isn't so great)! The boys were in this pool while we lived in Abq and other visits back. I don't think I ever remember a time it wasn't cool.

I'm pretty sure this picture was from the infamous "water hose" incident. When we were all returning home, M for some reason ran ahead, grabbed the hose and turned it on the entire family! Brave Uncle J. ran and knocked it out of his hand. Interesting that M. is not in the picture. Perhaps he is inside being disciplined?

Our visit was for Father's Day (not sure why we would have carted these vehicles back with us, unless they were in storage and we picked them up while in town. I know they were in KY with us!) and although my memory is fainter now, I think we were celebrating on the back patio. You can see a chair in one pic - that patio furniture was Hubby's grandmother's before it was here and now it is on our back patio. What you see in the background was the site of Easter egg hunts the years we lived in Abq. Isn't it so nice how M & L are sharing and getting along? I'm sure we had to snap the photo quick before someone was biting or knocking the other off!

I love all the photos we have of every day life, but I love all our trip photos too. It's nice to see new places or visit family. It's usually those trips too that hold a more relaxed pace and times of connectedness. All great memories with a great family.

Heart Work and No Bake Cookies

2012-03-05T08:22:00.000-08:00

Ever since Hubby and I took a get-away trip together in mid-January and I went to a Mom Heart conference in mid-February, things at our home have gone much more smoothly. I also started reading a book that I bought at the conference, Parenting is Heart Work (Dr. Scot Turansky and Joanne Miller). I'm only part way through it, but it has made me think...
About what's going on in my sons' hearts. When they have outbursts, is it really deliberate? Do they have an unmet need? Are they having trouble expressing what it is they are really feeling? I'm still quick to put a stop to when outbursts are disrespectful, but I'm learning to talk through that instead of yelling. Yelling NEVER works anyway.

What their love language is. It was harder to tell when they were younger, but now I know that I have one who speaks "doing things together" and one who speaks "doing things for - aka gifts". I even talked to M. about love languages. I love including that in the training process.

How important emotional health is. In addition to not falling in the trap of disciplining when I'm angry, I understand that I don't have to fix everything. Instead of fixing a problem, what my son may really need is my care and comfort.

I've already written about having Family Nights and turning off electronics on Saturday nights, but that continues to be a "win" for our family. I know "Family Nights" whether Family Movie Night or Family Game Night or something else isn't anything new. Although we've had them before and actually do spend quite a bit of family time together, I love making this deliberate and at home relaxed time. Do we miss? Of course, we were out of town one week and this coming Friday we will be at my son's school.

Each family night we have is my favorite. This past Friday we made No Bake Cookies (we being just M and I) and watched The Woodcarver (reviewed earlier in my blog). Afterwards we all (including the dog) piled into L's full-size bed and discussed the movie which led into a discussion about something going on in our neighborhood.

It wasn't just the cookies or the movie, we connected on an emotional level; we enjoyed being together; we worked out some issues; we thought/talked about what happens when you let other things take over God's place in your life.

Another outcome of the book and spending time together was how I handled a discipline issue that arouse this week. (I totally give God and Parenting is Heart Work credit for it.) I got an email from a teacher, then I talked at length with the teacher on the phone and set a conference. My normal response would be to let my son know what happened, that it will never happen again, what will happen if it should and here's your consequence for all this.

This time, I let him know what happened, he had outbursts, I listened and empathized. I gave some guidance. He had more outbursts and processed. At the end of the evening he wrote an apology note. Not my suggestion or dictation. Did he need a consequence from me? Nope, he got one at school. Was this better than my usual approach? Absolutely!

No Bake Cookies (In no way do I condone these as healthy. They are a family favorite though.)
2 cups sugar
1/4 cup cocoa
1/2 cup milk
1 stick margarine

Bring to a boil and let cook 5-7 minutes, then cool slightly. (Slightly to me is 3-5 minutes. This is the critical part to the cookies setting right. If it's too hot everything is too runny. I almost let it cool too long this time and the peanut butter didn't melt right.)

Add:
1/2 cup peanut butter
1 1/2 cup oatmeal (most recipes say the minute kind, but I use the Old-fashion kind because the oats are bigger and more tasty)
2 teaspoon vanilla.

Mix thoroughly. Drop by spoonful on waxed paper. (Do this quickly before the mixture starts hardening in the pot.) Let cool.

Eat with a glass of milk, but don't eat too many! http://www.thebettermom.com/2012/03/pursuit-of-proverbs-31-and-better-mom-mondays-link-up/

One Thousand Gifts

2012-03-05T07:25:00.001-08:00

1224-1241

Music while I work

The picture of my best friend from college & me ongraduation day – it’s in my office bookshelf

A really clean desk

A full trash bag

Week one day 2 of Couch to 5k

M ½ way to a fundraising goal

Boys in jeans and dress shirts

An hour of relaxation

The mountain of recycle gone

Handling something well

God’s provision

The Woodcarver

My Small Group – fellowship and lesson discussion

A walk with Hubby

God is my shelter

Sun streaming in the windows

Hubby hugging me tight.

On the Home Front - March 4

2012-03-04T13:45:00.000-08:00

A peek through mywindow…. It’s a beautiful spring day! Hubby spent some time outside working on the yard and flowers. It will be beautiful by summer!

What’s going on thisweek… Basket/bingo night at L’s school (possibly our last elementary schoolfundraiser) and Sat. is a Mother/Son activity at church.

What “the boys” aredoing… They are out with Hubby. Ididn’t look to see what kind of ball they took along, but I think they wereheaded to a park.

On my mind… Storms have been on my mind lately. I have to be careful not to focus too greatlyon them and to trust God. I do have awebsite up on my computer showing storm shelters, but I’m not sure I canconvince Hubby. They are actually muchmore affordable than I thought they would be.

On my bedside table… Parentingis Heart Work.

I am richly blessed…to have had time at home with my family this weekend.

I’m praying for… afriend at church who is sharing Jesus with co-workers.

Our home… isready for small group. I still have lotsof laundry to do, but that can wait and the laundry door can be shut. When I’m home tomorrow, I’d really like tomake some salsa and possibly try drying some fruit in Hubby’s new fooddehydrator. He made a batch of jerky andthen went back for the one step up model.

Menu planning… chickenlegs (not for me of course), hamburgers on the grill (once I buy more propane).

A photo or two…

My super nephew getting ready for a hockey game. M and my sis-in-law are in the background.

The Woodcarver

2012-03-04T13:19:00.000-08:00

Put March 13 on your calendar. It's the release date for The Woodcarver and if you're looking for a fantastic movie for Family Movie Night, it's perfect.

Although somewhat predictable, The Woodcarver had plenty of drama and tense moments to keep an adult's attention. It's rated PG for "thematic elements" - those would be divorce, family arguments, loss, vandalism and arson. However, there was nothing in the movie that made me uncomfortable to watch it with my 10 and 12 year old.

The thing I loved about The Woodcarver (besides just being an enjoyable movie) was the discussion it sparked with our children afterwards. It's wonderful to have a springboard like that to talk about life issues within the context of a film that ultimately points to God.

The highest praise came from one of my sons, "Mom, that's one of my favorite movies!". I'm so thankful for an alternative to all the junk that is in our video store. I'm not familiar with "Faith and Family Films", but I'll definitely being doing some research now.

Would you like to win a copy of The Woodcarver? Click on the link and leave me a comment that you did. I'll have "random.org" choose a winner on March 10 from the comments.

Christian Cinema: http://www.christiancinema.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=4094

About the Movie:

Matthew Stevenson is a troubled kid from a broken home. When he vandalizes the local church to get back at his parents, Matthew has to repair the damage to the church to avoid criminal charges. While working at the church, he meets Ernest (John Ratzenberger), an accomplished wood carver who created the intricate woodwork decoration that Matthew destroyed. Ernest has become something of a hermit, but reluctantly comes out of reclusion to help repair the church. Now Ernest and Matthew must work together to preserve the church's beautiful antiquity, and along the way, they also manage to restore their faith in God and in life.

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or

services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it

on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally

and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance

with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the

Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Flashback Friday - March 2

2012-03-02T15:25:00.001-08:00

I scanned in several photos to use for Flashback Friday and I'm getting closer to our time in Albuquerque and a digital camera. We lived in Sedona until the boys were 3 and 1 and here I'm reflecting on toys and footed pajamas. Doesn't L look like he's up to something in this picture?

The porta-crib you see was L's safe spot. I put him inside if I had to run upstairs for a minute or if I ever needed to get him away from his big brother! He probably eventually made it over to the Barney you can see in the next picture. Barney and Dora were L's absolute favorites from an early age.

I always loved that both boys used their imaginations and could pretend for long periods of time. Here's M using his Bob the Builder toys with his truck; no doubt taking something over to the tracks. You can see part of his airplane and garage in the background. L's bus is also there. They used all the toys together to create all kinds of scenes. (So I didn't mention much about footed pajamas.....you can't get much better than a freshly bathed baby in footed pajamas though.)

I think this painting picture may be from an afternoon that Hubby was home with the boys. He was at his office until about 2:30 and then came home to be with the boys while I worked from 3 - 6 - first at the Christian School and then an insurance office. It worked out great for us. I would cook anything that could be done ahead of time and then leave everything for dinner in the fridge. Hubby would cook it and we'd eat when I got home. Anyway, back to painting - well, more the table. That table saw many many hours of coloring, painting, puzzles, games, crafts, books, learning and snacks. In Sedona it was right inside the kitchen next to our family desk. (In Albuquerque it was in the Great Room at the end of the kitchen counter.)

Easter Sunday 2002. Our second one in Sedona. (This was next to our parking spot that was directly in front of our townhouse.) I was pregnant with L. the first one and after a miserable morning at church, Hubby took L. over to our dear friends' house where they had dinner and hunted eggs. This picture was the beginning of a much more pleasant Easter for me. After church, we went through the Taco Bell drive thru and made the 2 hour drive to Scottsdale where Hubby's parents were visiting. We spent the afternoon swimming, paddle boating, playing and celebrating the boys' birthdays.

Hmmm.....in a little over a month now, we'll be celebrating #11 and #13 for the boys. M's special day is on Easter this year. I'll probably put a dress on for Easter Sunday - will the boys be in navy pants and have a collared shirt? Maybe, but I'll be happy with anything that matches.

One Thousand Gifts - Feb. 27

2012-02-27T05:20:00.003-08:00

#1208 - 1223

Daddies playing with their children

3 gifts white – the flowers on my desktop background

Towels at the gym that I didn’t have to bring and

Copy paper

(4) The whitecarnations on my kitchen counter

Bright sunshine

Chilly mornings and warm afternoons

The way the hall smells of bath gel when the boysfinish their showers

Bed made, laundry started and Jesus calling before 7:30am

A day off

Starting something that is beyond me
Breakfast with a new friend

2 great date nights with Hubby

Airplane hangars

Weekend

Corporate worship

On The Home Front - February 25

2012-02-25T17:08:00.003-08:00

A peek through mywindow…. Dark now. That happened waytoo quickly.

What’s going on thisweek… Subbing, usual practices and such, pick up cookie dough and a dayoff.

What “the boys” aredoing… they are at a concert with Aunt. M. continues after school trackpractice. L. has a skit performance Sun. night. I’m glad I figured that out on Wed. because I wasn’t planning forit. At all.

On my mind… A few things – I put our family calendar inGoogle docs! I’m also thinking of howbadly my shins are hurting. A friendfrom high school convinced me to do the Couch to 5k and “run” a 5k Mayish. Hubby and I are going to go out in a littlewhile looking for running shoes. He and I have already been out to dinner and hung out together at the hangar.

On my bedside table… JesusCalling. I finished Delivered with Loveon my Kindle.

I am richly blessed…I really enjoyed having breakfast with a friend from Bible Study this morning.

I’m praying for… family.

Our home… I gotthe master bathroom completely cleaned – a rarity. The boys cleaned their rooms a little morethoroughly today and changed the sheets on their beds – took off some of theheavy winter covers. I reworked theirweekly chores to be more “fair”.

Menu planning… MexicanRoast, hmm…and leftover Mexican Roast (for tacos).

A photo or two…

Photos From Our Trip to Texas Last Weekend

Going Out in Joy

2012-02-24T09:21:00.000-08:00

Everyday joy, now I like the sound of that!! Dayspring has some great themed collections out right now that would make great gifts for upcoming birthdays, Mother's Day, and just because. The one I had the privilege to review was this one "Everyday Joy"

The white dots and colors of red and turquoise just radiate the words "fun, bold and enjoyment". When the Dayspring box came to the door of course I opened it right away. My son L was getting ready to have hot chocolate and he was quick to claim the mug to use. It has a design in the bottom - I just love that about Dayspring mugs and am always excited to find out which surprise design or Scripture is on the inside!

You can always shop Dayspring online, find products at your local Christian retailer and a few weeks ago I found Dayspring at Hobby Lobby while we were browsing! To help you out with some shopping, I'd like to offer a $20 coupon code (You have to pay shipping). To enter to win the code, please leave me a comment about what you love about Dayspring. I will use random.org to pick a winner on Leap Day!

The memo cube became a gift for a friend. Here it is waiting to be packed.

She took it to her work office and when I talked to her earlier this week she told me how much she enjoyed looking at it there.

I still have the journal, but wanted to show you the inside pages. (BTW, this journal is wire bound - I love those kind so you can bend the cover completely back.)

The clothes I was packing are in the background. I didn't even notice until I reviewed the photos for this post, but I think the verse was fitting for me getting ready to take a trip!

You will go out in joy
and be led forth in peace. Isaiah 55:12a

Disclosure: I received an Everyday Joy Assortment Set freefrom Dayspring in return for my blog review. All opinions are completely mine and true.

Flashback Friday - February 24

2012-02-24T06:00:00.000-08:00

Once we got into our new townhouse complex in Sedona, we had to get ready for baby L's arrival. Aunt bought M his "big boy" bed (aka known as we needed the crib for baby). It was a blue Little Tykes race car bed and perfect for M's fascination with cars. It wasn't too tricky to put together (well if Hubby hadn't been doing it would have been!)

I know it's shocking that I would actually post a picture of me at nine months pregnant, but this blog is real and sometimes it gets ugly.

M was quite helpful and though I don't remember exactly, he likely had his tools out also. The tricky part of this ensemble was toddler bedding. Who would have thought it would be so difficult to find? Of course we weren't exactly in a metropolis, but we did find a Sesame Street comforter and sheets with vehicles on them at Kmart in Flagstaff. (Usually shopping trips to Flagstaff included Hubby and trips without him were to Cottonwood.)

This picture is M. on the stairs. At the top was a hallway landing with a laundry closet and large bedrooms with bathrooms on each side. It kind of seems silly to describe, but I want my boys to have this for memories. Their room was on the right at the back of the house. Our landlord installed a safety mechanism on the outside of the window when she knew we had small children (I don't exactly remember what kind it was). We thought that was so considerate of her considering our previous landlord didn't seem to think it was a problem that our front glass door didn't latch properly i.e. M. could easily escape.

The closet in the boys' room was so large that I put the changing table for L. lengthwise in the width of the closet. The dresser was there too lengthwise with plenty room in front to open drawers. There was even space on top to use - Little kid clothes don't hang down too far! The boys' room had plenty of place to play even with the crib and race car bed in it. Little Tykes and Little People toys were the coolest back then - they had the workbench and "zoo" and many Little People sets and videos. Anway back to the "big boy bed". The evening we Hubby put it together we were visited by the police. It seemed that the neighbors in the 55 plus community behind us didn't like hearing our dog howl. He eventually went to live with my parents.

Next week I have pictures to post that actually include L. in Sedona! M. read last week's post and he wants to hear about Albuquerque. He'll have to wait through Kentucky stories, but at least I have digital photos from ABQ.

L's Favorite Book Character

2012-02-23T19:58:00.000-08:00

I totally forgot that Tuesday was the State writing test until after I got to work myself. I was thankful that L had a good breakfast and spent time praying for him. When I picked him up after school he informed me that he got in bed too late and didn't have a good breakfast. What??!!! Problem corrected for day two of writing.

Now L, hasn't been one to always bring papers home from school in a timely manner. This morning I saw L's practice writing response and the booklet giving details about the test. Maybe if I had seen that last week.....

Anyway, I read his writing and it was quite the "proud Mother moment". I'm including his essay here. I left most of the misspellings because I wanted it be real (5th grade real) except that I only spelled Moses and Israel the way he did once.

My favorite book character would be Mosses. Moses is in the Bible in the OLDTestimate. He was a follower of God.

When Moseswas a baby he was about to be killed (because all male babies were to bekilled) and his mother wrapped him in cloth and put him in a basket. She put him in the Nileriver and let him off because she didn’t want him to be killed. He was found in a river crying, right infront of a palace, and was taken care of.

The Bibledoesn’t really describe Moses, but he is in a few Bible stories. In one he is a baby in another he is a lotolder. I imagine him as having a whitebeard and bald. I also think of him ashaving a walking stick and being a good leader.

He is in alot more Bible stories but my favorite story is when he went and free thepeople of Isreal. God told him to go to Israel and talk to the king andmake him free God’s people. When Mosesfirst went the Bible says he was scared but God helped him. Moses talked to the king but the king didn’tlet the people go. The king repeatlysaid no on letting the people go. Godgrew angry each time and sent plagues. On the last plague God sent a plague that the Wholy Ghost would kill thefirst born son of that family if you didn’t put blood on your door frame. The king’s son died that night because hedidn’t obey God’s commands. The king letMoses take the people, but he regretted it and went after Moses. Moses made sure that every body was saved.

I likeMoses because he is a follower of God and a good leader. He is my favorite Bible character because heis very courageous and fun to learn about.

One Thousand Gifts - February 20

2012-02-20T18:54:00.000-08:00

#1184 - 1204 (Really)

708 My sister

709 Help filling out Valentines

710 A continued welcome

711 Discovering new blogs

712 In-depth small group discussion

713 Lunch after church with a new family

714 God is my provider

715 A quick trip to the store for saltines

716 17 years ago he proposed to me at a Valentine banquet

717 I love my new part-time job

718 Mosaic

719 Playing skee ball with my sidekick

720 A tight hug and an “I love you Mom.”

721 J. waiting in the same spot we left her 20 min. earlier

722 A student coming in to Arby’s to say hello.

723 Homemade Valentines

724 Late walk with Hubby and J.

725 M got a spot on the NJHS Relay for Life team (33 of 45)

726 Love of family

727 Safe travels

728 White carnations

729 Lots of conversation

730 Worship with 800 women

731 Heart change

Flashback Friday - February 17

2012-02-17T06:00:00.000-08:00

Flashback to this yard. This eh, pile of rocks. I mentioned last week that our yards in Sedona were perfect for toy backhoes and dumptrucks and they were. I hardly ever left M (or the dog for that matter) alone in the yard more than five minutes because of coyotes. You can see just beyond the back gate. It opened to a small ravine and then directly beyond that was an over 55 community. I was told there were coyotes in the back sometimes. Although we heard them at night some and I would see them in town, I never saw them around the townhouse. I was paranoid though if I didn't always have an eye on M or the dog that they'd get carried away.

Having rocks for the yard was perfect for this time in our life and not so perfect too. Since M was constantly digging in them and this was the dog's "litter box" we were constantly hosing them down with water and cleaner.

I miss little kid clothes - I don't think we had to buy the boys clothes hardly at all though while we were in Sedona. We were blessed with a friend at church who had boys slightly older than ours. We often had an overabundance and kept some and passed the others along. In this picture you can see our infamous duck boots. They came from the mentioned family, M wore them everywhere - even when they were too small. Eventually L. wore them (even when they were way too big). We passed them on when L. outgrew them and now I can't even remember to who!

Anyway, one of my favorite memories of my parents visiting was in this yard. The ladies I worked with at the Christian school (I did after school care) hosted a baby shower for L. and instead of individual gifts they bought an outdoor swing for the backyard. Mom and Dad came to visit us in Sedona when L. was about a month old. In the mornings they would sit in the swing. I woke up early one morning and saw them drinking coffee and talking out there so they wouldn't wake us. I remember being so happy that they were enjoying the swing/yard. Thinking back, I think I was so happy knowing they were in my yard and not 18 hours away.

One Thousand Gifts - February 13

2012-02-13T09:35:00.000-08:00

1167 - 1183. I still don't know why the numbers change when I copy and paste from Word!

708 God speaking in His Word

709 Part time jobs

710 Smiles

711 Learning curves

712 Lawn treated

713 Free stuff

714 Dog sneezes

715 3 gifts outside: The dog following Hubby who is all bundled up

716 A school bus that stops right in front of the house

717 Daffodils coming up

718 Finally taking that pile of pants that are too big to a local church’s clothing closet

719 Pants that are too big

720 Waking up without an alarm clock

721 Time

722 Scanning old photos

723 Peanut butter brownies

724 Dirt – making the yard ready for spring

12 on the 12th

2012-02-12T14:21:00.000-08:00

When I was going through my reader I saw a friend post 10 on the 10th (she actually posted on the 11th though - I love it! I usually posted Multitudes on Mondays Wednesday or Wordless Wednesday Thursday.) I follwed a link from http://www.thebettermom.com/2012/02/be-thou-my-vision-a-personal-prayer/ to http://thisgalsjourney.wordpress.com/ and totally stole her list of 11 random things. It's actually the 12th so I included my own 12th at the end.

1. Favorite Book

Currently it is One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp. Growing up, I loved (and still do) Shepherd of the Hills by Harold Bell Wright. It is a beautiful story of forgiveness set in the Ozark Mts.

2. Would you make a good celebrity? Why or why not?

Absolutely Not. The glitz and fakeness of it all would irritate me.

3. One thing on your To Do list

I’d really like to get my desk cleaned off! (My husband would too since we share an office at home!)

4. The last time you treated yourself to something special

I think since my children are older now that it’s much easier to treat myself…Saturday morning I ate lunch by myself at Chick Fil A and sat there an hour and worked on my Bible Study.

5. What is your perfect meal?

One shared with my family.

6. One thing you should do more often

Laugh

7. Most underrated band

If they are underrated, it’s probably because of me – I’m not much into bands (or any of the reality contest music/dance shows on TV).

8. Your plans for Valentine’s Day

Soccer practice. Hubby and I took a trip last month.

9. If you could go anywhere, where would you go? Time and money are not a factor.

Hubby and I would love to take our boys to Israel. He and I went there together over a dozen years ago. I think once you go, your heart always longs to go back.

10. A good prank you pulled or that someone did to you

I detest pranks. (Do not take that as an invitation to pull one on me).

11. Rain or snow?

Rain, but I do hope we have a snow day tomorrow!

12. What I had for dinner last night.

A very eclectic meal - leftover rice soup, bbq chicken on toast, lime tortilla chips and guacamole.

Cooper and Me and the Military

2012-02-12T14:01:00.000-08:00

I blogged a few months ago about a wonderful series of books called Cooper and Me (See side bar). Most children love stories about dogs and this one stars a loveable black lab. The newest book in the series is Cooper and Me and the Military where Cooper's best friend's family is deployed. The family stays close even though they are separated by thousands of miles.

This book will help any child make connections with our military, but it would be a wonderful gift to help a child with a parent being deployed to work through his/her feelings. Even if a child doesn't have experience with someone in the military though, the bridge could be made to any loved one who lives far away.

One of the best things about Cooper and Me books are their interactive features:
• Life Lesson

• Connections

• Learning Together

They are written in a way to guide adults to help children talk about the book (questions directly from the book - such as "Who are the little girl's friends?"), talk about the life lesson (Staying connected with loved ones for this new one) and connecting to their personal experiences ("Have you ever missed someone? How does that feel?")

Cooper and Me and the Military also contains a sample letter for writing our service men and women and a website to help in sending those messages. All of these interactive features would be perfect for home and/or school.

For More Information:
Website: http://www.cooperandme.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Cooper-and-Me-Inc/214695101924101

Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/cooper_and_me

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of Cooper & Me and the Winter Adventure for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

On The Homefront - February 11

2012-02-11T14:16:00.000-08:00

A peek through my window…. The sky is blue and it’s sunny, but it’s misleading. I can see that it is quite breezy and I’m sure the windchill isn’t above freezing.

What’s going on this week… Valentine’s Day, my sub position ends and my new tutor position starts, I leave Friday morning for a conference and to visit family.

What “the boys” are doing… L is on his bed reading Courageous. We can officially call him “headache free” now and start counting our week in order for him to start having contact in soccer. His scrimmage was cancelled today because of temperature/wind chill and we will be away for two scrimmages next weekend. I bet he (and his coach) are itching to be back! M. is out with Hubby. His first NJHS meeting is this week.

On my mind… local attempted abduction yesterday morning and an Amber alert last night (unrelated). The safety of my children (and all children) is always on my mind. Also, since Bible study Wed. night, not showing favoritism (James 1) has been on my mind.

On my bedside table… Jesus Calling.

I am richly blessed… to have another part-time job to go into and to have a six-week work at home opportunity.

I’m praying for… mission team that is away right now.

Our home… Hubby and M moved lots of dirt filling in holes and getting flower beds ready for spring. Hubby has plans for a backyard fountain (hopefully we’ll get the front one fixed) and has ordered new bulbs.

Menu planning… Leftovers and asparagus tonight for dinner. I bought more asparagus to have another night this week – I was so excited to find it good in the store. I won’t buy it if it’s too expensive or yucky. I only plan out meals a couple weeks at a time and it’s about time to do it again…

A photo or two… From Hubby's phone again. We absolutely have to get a new camera before summer vacation this year!

Flashback Friday - Feb. 10

2012-02-10T15:17:00.000-08:00

Last night we went to M’s induction to the National Junior Honor Society. Of course it got me thinking of all the things that led him there, especially his school experiences. Then I pondered why I have loved being in kindergarten so much the past six weeks. All this water coloring, singing, and such was all the things I did at home with my boys before they went to school and I love seeing other kids growing.

I don’t scrapbook or keep a journal other than here and when I did start blogging my boys were already in school. So, that got me thinking that I needed to record some of those every day “ordinary” experiences from when M & L were little. I will record them here, so one day when childhood is gone there will be record of what fun we had at home. I decided to start “Flashback Friday” where (almost) every Friday, I’ll reminisce.

We lived in Sedona, Arizona from when M was one until he was three and a year after L was born. While there we lived in three different townhouses. We left the first one for a better ‘deal”, but it turned out to be not so great and we were there only one month. Even though we were there a short time and I was extremely pregnant with L, I remember having so much fun playing. Most of M’s toys were downstairs underneath the stairs and since he had lots of wheeled toys, it was almost like a garage. We spent lots of time watching Thomas the Tank Engine and lots of time right outside the sliding glass doors playing ball on the grass or playing in the rocks. Sedona was a great place for toy dump trucks and backhoes. We also spent a lot of time walking in the neighborhood. To M’s delight this included a ride in the stroller by the fire station and to the grocery store. He loved when we went in for donuts! I was almost nine months pregnant, so I loved it to!

The end to that residence was quite traumatic. Hubby had to take the youth at church on a college visit and he had said if we got the townhouse packed first that I could go along. That was definitely incentive! After that visit and an 18 hour ride home I skipped church to sleep in (Hubby got two hours of sleep). Then M and I drove the rental van up the mountain to return it to the “big” city. I fastened M. into his car seat securely and took a nap before driving our own van back home. I know that’s terrible, but I almost fell asleep twice on the way up. God was watching out for us. By the time I made it home, Hubby and some men from church had already moved absolutely everything to our new place and had even started unpacking.

We were at that next place for a little over a year. I wonder if M remembers any of it. (I had fully intended to post a picture from the "Wild Turkey" townhouse, but it's going to require a bit more digging. I know there's at least one because I remember having pictures of M playing in the boxes we were using when we moved!)

One Thousand Gifts - February 6

2012-02-06T07:46:00.000-08:00

1150 Learning about night vision

1151 Umbrella

1152 God fills lack

1153 M made National Junior Honor Society

1154 A surprise day home

1155 Making the time to read

1156 Extra cuddles

1157 3 gifts found in writing: re-reading blog posts - our history

1158 Seeing Mom’s writing in her old Bible Study books

1159 Texts that say thank you or you’re invited

1160 But for the grace of God go I

1161 Familiar faces

1162 Anticipation

1163 Sharing our home

1164 Quilt on the couch

1165 Doorbells

1166 My son’s school rocks!

Time Well Spent

2012-02-06T07:24:00.000-08:00

Concussions are yucky. We did the whole thing (twice) with M. last fall. When L. got hit in a soccer scrimmage we were more aware of what was going on. One of the yucky things is that symptoms can come and go. For example, L. was doing great yesterday morning and I really thought it was going to be his first headache free day. By the evening he said his head hurt worse than it had all week. I tried for about an hour to comfort him and finally ended up laying down beside him so he’d fall asleep.

This morning when I woke L. up for school he was crying. I tried to give him medicine for his headache, but he said that his Dad had before he left. I let him sleep for another hour telling him I’d take him to school before I went to work. When I woke him up the second time, same thing, but this time I told him that he’d be fine, he had to go. When he actually got out of bed he said that he was dizzy. So this time, I called in for a sub. I am actually the sub so I feel terrible for doing this.

However, my friend at Our Breathtaking Life, has been encouraging me to treasure time with my children. I wish this were time another way, but I am happy to give L. more rest and to love on him. All to soon “time with my children” is going to be “time with my teens”.

On another “time” note, while Hubby and I were in Florida, we talked about getting back to something we used to do. On Saturday evenings, we turn off media around 6 o’clock to prepare our hearts for Sunday worship. We’ve done that for three weeks now and I’ve also seen other fruit come from it – great conversation about sharing your faith at school, finishing a puzzle, making brownies, the boys getting interested in putting models together. Who could have imagined what tuning out could accomplish? I think no video games is easier on the boys (they already have limits) – Sat. evening is about the time I would like to be blogging! But, yes, time actually spent with them is way better than time writing about them!

On the Home Front - February 4

2012-02-04T08:44:00.000-08:00

A peek through my window…. Very cloudy and gray. I can’t complain though, our winter temperatures still are not very wintery.

What’s going on this week… Wed. night is a parent meeting for track. I think Hubby will go so I can still go to Bible study. Thursday night is the National Junior Honor Society induction. I was so happy for M. to have made it!

What “the boys” are doing… one is vacuuming right now! On another note, we think L. got a mild concussion in the scrimmage last weekend. Since we’ve done this rodeo before we were planning on waiting and watching, but his soccer coach urged us to go ahead and see the dr. So that’s where we are headed this afternoon.

On my mind… My kindergarten sub job ends two days earlier than the teacher had thought and my next long term job may start later (depending on when the teacher’s baby comes) so I am thinking of that “in between time”. I have enjoyed the consistency of knowing where I am going each day and being able to feel settled somewhere. I guess that will be ending shortly.

On my bedside table… I’ve read two fiction books and that must be a record for me of late! That must be why I haven’t blogged as much lately.

I am richly blessed… with another wonderful family evening last night. Since Hubby and I came back from Florida we have had family night each Friday (and Saturday really) night. Last night we sent almost two hours at a National Guard Armory and looking at Black Hawk helicopters. We especially enjoyed learning about and experiencing night vision. After our tour, the four of us went to a local place for dinner. I love local establishments.

I’m praying for… family.

Our home… will have a new picture hanging on the wall soon. When we go out this afternoon I am going to get a frame for the painting that Winter (the dolphin) did. We have a print of course.

Menu planning… I actually did this when I stayed home Tuesday with L! Tonight I am making wild rice soup and grilled ham and cheese. Friends are bringing pizza tomorrow night for the Super Bowl. One night this week we will have roast, potatoes and carrots and another night we’ll have spaghetti.

A photo or two…

Finished Not Complete

2012-01-30T17:36:00.000-08:00

Christmas 2010, my Dad gave M and L a puzzle. We started it last February when we were snowed in.

The puzzle has been on the dining room table all year. I have slid it over for the boys to work on school projects, we've piled laundry from the dryer on top to be folded, and when we have company for dinner I just set everything right on top of the puzzle (I put the laundry away!).

Saturday night we made brownies and finished the maybe hundred pieces left. Two pieces are missing. M said that was pretty good considering it was out for a whole year.

I told the boys that it was fitting that the puzzle was missing two pieces becaue our family is missing two - Grandpa and Nanny.

On Thousand Gifts - January 30

2012-01-30T09:29:00.001-08:00

1120 Unexpected help with dinner

1121 That they still tell me what’s going on

1122 Invitations to play games on their Kindle

1123 Thoughtfulness to call

1124 A new Bible study

1125 Hearing how God called someone to our church

1126 Mission

1127 Knowing God is helping my hurting friends

1128 Telephone calls

1129 Amazing walks

1130 3 gifts found in Christ: salvation, hope, joy

1131 Working out before school

1132 Before noon: slipping into slippers during lunch break

1133 After dark: praying while ironing

1134 Being with Hubby during his triathlon

1135 That he was gracious about his car

1136 Finding new flowers for the headstone

1137 Spending time with Aunt

1138 Wearing jammies to work

1139 Testimony of salvation

1140 Godly examples

1141 Dinner out with another couple

1142 Finishing the puzzle after a year

1143 Being able to find humor in kindergarten

1144 God’s quick response to mine

1145 Media free time accomplishing its purpose

1146 Hearing how they have shared Scripture with friends

1147 3 graces found in my friends: attentiveness

1148 Knowing

1149 Shared life

On the Home Front - January 29

2012-01-29T14:56:00.000-08:00

A peek through my window…. It was another beautiful weekend. Hubby cleaned out the front flower bed and it looks great!

What’s going on this week… 100th day at school! And an anniversary of sorts…of Dad’s passing. Aunt and I went and put new flowers on his and Mom’s grave.

What “the boys” are doing… they’ve gotten their weekend chores done and have pretty much played video games all day. We’ve reinstituted no media after 6pm on Saturday nights so they are looking forward to seeing what we’ll end up doing together as a family tonight. We want to prepare our hearts for worship with our church family. Soccer scrimmage after church for L.

On my mind… After we dropped Hubby off to prepare for his indoor triathlon this morning (Sat.), I took his car and the boys to get some breakfast. The problem is his car is low, I am short and the curb at McDonald’s was high. I scratched and broke off a piece of the front bumper. I absolutely can’t stand it! He takes such wonderful care of his car (and everything he has) and I messed it up.

On my bedside table… James, Mercy Triumph, the new Beth Moore study.

I am richly blessed… God answers the cries of our heart so quickly.

I’m praying for… a friend’s husband who has had quite the ordeal with being ill this past week.

Our home… cleaned and ready for small group!

Menu planning… New month and I still need to do this. We’re having teriyaki chicken, rice, and broccoli tonight. I’m making chicken in the crockpot for chicken tacos/taco salad for small group tomorrow night.

A photo or two…

Decemember 2007

One Thousand Gifts - January 23

2012-01-23T07:00:00.000-08:00

This list is longer than normal because I missed last week!

1079 Writing ability and supplies to do it

1080 Walking by boys throwing rocks in an empty creek – youth

1081 Sitting with my family having dinner & celebrating

1082 Dinner on paper plates – none alike

1083 The heater kicking on now that it’s getting colder

1084 How the moon is still handing low in the sky to greet me in the mornings

1085 Daffodils

1086 Bright warm sunshine

1087 Assistants

1088 Slipping away a few moments with a friend

1089 Excitement of snow starting to fall

1090 Seeing the ground blanketed in snow

1091 L helping me with my coat

1092 Spending a few moments with M – playing and chatting

1093 The complete wonder of young children

1094 Can do attitudes

1095 Work already started on

1096 Responsibilities

1097 Fleece jacket when it was colder than it should have been

1098 A ride from our parking spot to theirs

1099 Three meals out shared together, time, conversation, and being

1100 Meeting families of dear ones

1101 Seeing God’s grace in their lives after all these years

1102 Standing on the pier close to the one I love

1103 6th time in Florida

1104 Crossing bays

1105 Patience when traveling (ours and others)

1106 His provision

1107 My early birthday present

1108 A year of God’s love applied after losing so much

1109 In any inconvenience I have absolutely no reason to complain

1110 Time to read for recreation and for growth

1111 One gift that made me laugh – Hubby’s silliness

1112 Sharing laughter together

1113 One gift that made me pray – work situations. I am so thankful that Hubby has a job and that I do (somewhat)

1114 One gift that made me quiet – pondering memories

1115 Acceptance and inclusion

1116 Time with my family in front of the fire

1117 A Friday evening at home

1118 Being at our final pinewood derby together

1119 Seven years of Cub Scouting

On the Home Front - January 21

2012-01-21T11:36:00.000-08:00

A peek through my window…. We’ve finally had some winter chill. It’s sunny today and not overcast though. It looks beautiful and tomorrow holds promise of being in the 60s. If you peak out my window and slightly over you can see the front door and would know I finally took down the wreath and put away the “Merry Christmas” mat!

What’s going on this week… Our church in action meeting is tomorrow night and I’m really looking forward to that. I feel very blessed to be a part of our church. On Friday, Hubby and I are meeting acquaintances from our college days for dinner.

What “the boys” are doing… L is using his Kindle while waiting for Dad to help him finish some chores, M is at a neighbor’s house (yay!). We just finished our final Pinewood Derby this morning. Sigh… L has practice this week and a scrimmage Sat. and M. needs to get busy on his poetry project! Almost forgot – we’re all going to a college basketball game tonight!

On my mind… Thursday was the one year anniversary of finding out Dad’s cancer diagnosis and it was much harder than I anticipated. Feb. 1 is one year since his passing.

On my bedside table… I read “A Texan’s Promise” while away and finished “The Prayers of Agnes Sparrow” (I must admit I skimmed a lot of it – never got into it). Last night I finished “Hearth at Candlewood”. This is probably a record of fiction reads for me.

I am richly blessed… Am enjoying using Ann Voskamp’s Joy Dare to add to my list of 1000 gifts. Hubby and I were blessed to spend the weekend away together last weekend and to visit “boys” (who are grown men in their 30s with their own families!) from Hubby’s first youth group. I delight is seeing God’s grace in their lives!

I’m praying for… mentioned “boys” and their ministries. I’ve spent time praying for Hubby and the boys quite a bit this week. I do miss my prayer walks with J the dog so I am looking forward to spring!

Our home… In case you’re wondering I did get the Christmas decorations down before our trip last weekend (although they are still waiting to go into the attic!) I’ll be so glad to finally reclaim our house! We’ve enjoyed time in front of the fireplace as a family a lot lately and I’ve absolutely loved it!

Menu planning… Sammy’s Dish (Broccoli Chicken Bake) – One of Hubby’s favs that I started making as newlyweds. I don’t make it often now which make the boys glad because L doesn’t like the broccoli and M doesn’t like the onion rings! Tator tot casserole tonight, cube steak and bumble bee (shells) macaroni for lunch tomorrow and pizza tomorrow night.

A photo or two…

Very thankful to have taken these pictures a year ago.

A Mile in His Shoes

2012-01-20T17:48:00.000-08:00

"A Mile in His Shoes"

This movie is definitely worth your time. Whether you like using movies as "Family Movie Night", to teach a lesson, are looking for wholesome entertainment, or have boys who like sports movies - this is the movie you're looking to see.

I guess this movie was on TV originally in the fall, but we missed it. It recently released on video and I'm so glad my family had an opportunity to see it. We watched in on Thursday night and again on Friday night! My children (ages 10 & 12) only had positive things to say about the movie (including many uses of the word "cool"). You don't have to be a kid or a boy though, A Mile in His Shoes is is inspiring for all.

The following links and product description will give you a much better description than I could. From me, you just want to know that this is a great movie - we love it!

Website: http://www.watchgmctv.com/video/mile-his-shoes#biography

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/A-Mile-In-His-Shoes/270101973014772?sk=wall

Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ev2T0BFetH4

Dove Foundation Review: http://www.dove.org/reviewmasterframe.asp

About Mile in His Shoes:

From the director of "Angels In the Outfield" comes an inspiring story about a special boy with an amazing gift, and the coach who believed. Dean Cain and Luke Schroder star in the gmc movie based on the book "The Legend of Mickey Tussler".

(From Anet again: This movie is rated PG and I am guessing it is for a scene where someone gets hit - although it is not physically shown and for some mild flirtation. I was completely comfortable watching it with my children. If you have young children, they won't "get" the story line, but there isn't anything inappropriate about the movie in my opinion.)

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Travels to Tampa

2012-01-17T20:23:00.000-08:00

Hubby and I enjoyed our weekend getaway and we have both decided that we love the Tampa Bay area! We didn't let the fact that it was COLD hamper our visit- Our big "to do" was to visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Don't think "aquarium - lots of marine animals that are there for you to see". The mission of CMA is to rescue, rehab and release and it was awesome to see firsthand the aquarium fulfilling its mission. CMA may even sound familiar if you've seen A Dolphin Tale where it was Clearwater Marine Hospital.

The temperature kept us off the beach, but it was still nice to walk along the pier and to have all that uninterrupted time together. Even with travel challenges, it all worked out great and we are thankful for God's provision for all the logistics.

We were both enamored by the sea turtle.

Winter doesn't do a "show" but visitors may watch her therapy sessions.

Loved seeing old friends and meeting their families. The next pictures shows what had captured everyone's attention!

Our lunch meeting was kept a surprise from L & L - a fun lunch and a dear memory to treasure. (This post is missing the picture of one friend, but I'm not sure Hubby's phone has her - FB does!)

Our First Snowfall of the Year

2012-01-12T14:25:00.000-08:00

Even with this small amount, it was just delightful as the snowflakes started falling as we were leaving church last night! At home we all peered out the window as the snow started accumulating in the back yard. The forecast was for only a 1/2 inch, but we all dreamed of school being canceled in spite of the prediction! On the way to work this morning I marveled at the blanket of beauty on the ground and rooftops. Amazing how excited I can get over a little snow!

Last February I wasn't so excited about this much snow...

We will see what the rest of winter brings!

And the Stocking Were Hung By the Chimney With Care

2012-01-11T04:44:00.000-08:00

Except at my house when I was growing up we just hung our stockings on the wall. We had a fireplace and mantel, but I don't think Dad considered it "safe" to hang stockings there.

I often clean house without focus. Someone in my house asked me when I was going to finish my ADD bathroom cleaning. Lol. Anyway, I saw the boxes in the corner of our dining room. One was from early-February, 2011. Hubby went and picked up my Dad's belongings at the Veteran's Center for us once the roads cleared. The other box was from June. After Aunt and I cleaned out our parents' house there were a few things I brought home right away...and there they have sat.

I glanced at the boxes tonight and decided I would start putting things away thus get rid of the boxes. This was as far as I got...

I held the stocking and felt inside it. Then I wondered what things must have been in it each Christmas when I was a little girl. I'm positive there would have been a small memo pad each Christmas.

These were our stockings this Christmas.

I don't worry about the safety of the fireplace - just that they are too heavy for the hangers or that the dog will eat whatever candy is inside (has happened before!)

I almost love stockings more than presents under the tree.

I'll try again on the boxes another time.

One Thousand Gifts - January 9

2012-01-09T15:50:00.000-08:00

Whew! I've been in Kindergarten four days and I'm exhausted! I love it though, and have learned so much. I have much to be thankful for every day both at home and away from home and I don't want to let the opportunity to keep recording graces to slip by.

I've mentioned "walk" twice and take such joy in the time in prayer, exercise, soaking up the sun, and being with my dog. We have had such unseasonably warm weather since Christmas - even hitting 70 a couple of days!

1060 A 7 wk. break in Sat. sports

1061 The Canadian geese flying dark against the purple and pink sky

1062 Hot tea

1063 Devotions before school

1064 Silly songs

1065 A day that went pretty smoothly

1066 My constant Companion

1067 I got a walk in today!

1068 Brothers getting along!!!

1069 I can do it!

1070 The sound of the soccer ball being kicked

1071 God’s peace

1072 Warm walking weather (still)

1073 A winter swim

1074 Visiting

1075 Hubby and L working on the derby car together

1076 Plans for a surprise

1077 God ministering to and answering prayer through a song

1078 M making the school Geo. B.

On the Home Front - January 7

2012-01-07T18:37:00.000-08:00

A peek through my window…. We’re still having unseasonably warm weather. If you look outside my window right now, you’ll just see that it’s dark outside!

What’s going on this week… We have lots of evening things going on and then Aunt will come stay with the boys (and the house and the dog) while Hubby and I go away for a long weekend.

What “the boys” are doing… watching NFL playoffs with Dad. M has a poetry project to start working on and he’s not very excited about it!

On my mind… Not feeling well – allergies and sinuses. I’m also thinking of L’s upcoming Arrow of Light ceremony for Scouts. I did the invitations and program for M’s so I volunteered for the same and am revising what I have.

On my bedside table… Still reading The Prayer Life of Agnes Sparrow on my kindle. I’m planning on taking the Kindle on our trip. I’d like to read another book I have on it (also gotten for free from Amazon) that’s called Unfriend Yourself – about giving up social media for three days.

I am richly blessed… Kindergarten went great this week! I’m learning so much and I have another long term sub job (ESL) lined up for March.

I’m praying for… our church. Today was the beginning of a 24 hour prayer and I had the privilege of having the first hour of it. Also praying for our new music pastor.

Our home… I got so much laundry done last week and there’s more piled in the laundry room now! The Christmas tree is still up! But hey, in addition to my prayer walk and L’s soccer game I was able to take care of meal planning, grocery shopping, banking, the Arrow of Light stuff, and reserve a hotel room!

Menu planning… Roast, potatoes and carrots in the crockpot. Chinese Chicken Morsels, Rice and Veggies. Sloppy Joes, chips, and fresh fruit & veggies. I found a great pdf or excel meal planner at The Better Mom.

A photo or two…

A couple of shots from Christmas Eve that didn't make the Christmas post. I wanted to post a picture of the cabbage rolls I made on the 26th, but the truth is an appetizing picture of cabbage rolls just isn't possible!
They tasted yummy though!

For Anyone, Regardless of Age

2012-01-06T19:53:00.000-08:00

I actually started reading this book at my in-laws’ home over Thanksgiving. When we came home and I was given the opportunity to receive a copy for review, I quickly accepted. I have always admired Billy Graham and my husband became a believer in Christ through Graham’s ministry. About ten years ago we also had the opportunity to visit Graham’s Retreat Center, The Cove. The first thing I remember after driving through the gates is feeling overwhelming peace.

Nearing Home is all about growing old gracefully, what Graham has learned about aging and his desire to finish strong. As one can expect from Graham, it is written with a great amount of Scripture and wisdom. Besides the mentioned reasons, I was drawn to this book because I don’t recall seeing any other Christian authors writing on the topic. I am thankful for Graham’s model.

I am closer to 40 than 90, but this book can be for anyone! I particularly like how each chapter starts with a Scripture and a quote, how Graham encourages mentorship, and the description of Heaven. He also does an excellent job ministering to the heart when he talks about loss and grief.

As believers, we are all nearing our true home because each day here is closer to a day there and we don’t know when our time will be. Nearing Home would make an excellent read for anyone desiring to grow in their faith, regardless of age.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Cricket Keeping

2012-01-06T19:15:00.000-08:00

We had a "cricket incident' in our house yesterday. (That's what M referred to it as when Aunt called and I was unavailable for the phone.) I didn't blog it because I didn't have a photo, but now I do.

Yes, I know those aren't crickets. But the picture does include son, L and his love for "animals". The picture was of L cleaning the cockroach cage at his volunteer job at the pet shop. Why would anyone have a "cockroach cage'????

Back to the cricket incident.....A few nights ago as we were returning home LATE, L declared his gecko hadn't eaten in days, but he had been asking and asking to go get food. Really? One of L's strongest character traits is persistence so I don't think the ONE time I remember him casually mentioning it as "asking and asking". Since his pet store was closed, I took him to the other (late remember), but we had a dilemma - the small crickets were almost microscopic and the large ones were way too large (they aren't supposed to be bigger than the space between the gecko's eyes).

However, there was one bag of prebagged crickets (who woulda thought?) that were the right size. That's what L got and only put a few in the cage. No more problems, right?

Except when we went to get mealworms (what we really wanted as gecko food) L forgot his money. Except when we got home from soccer practice there was a loose cricket on the wall in the hallway. Except for the cricket bag had a small leak.

I told L to put the rest of the crickets in the gecko cage. I had no idea there were so many! So - I had L get out as many as he could and put them in the cricket keeper. This was the first time in five years that it was actually used to keep crickets!

Now for the incident that M referred to - L was already in bed when I could hear the cricket that was still in the hallway. I told him that if it woke me up during the night that his name would be mud. "What's that mean?", he asked. I ran to grab my camera to take a picture in the hallway and L bounded out of bed and grabbed the cricket that was closer to the ground now. I called out for him to take it outside ALL THE WAY ACROSS THE STREET. He made it half way across the yard, dropped the cricket off and ran back inside! He had bare feet and no shirt!

Now it's Friday night and one of the crickets that was still in the gecko cage was being extremely noisy. Even L finally had enough and caught it and put it outside. That brings our grand total to 2 frozen crickets, a few still in the gecko cage, an unknown amount eaten by B - the gecko, and about 15 STILL in the cricket keeper. Once those 15 are gone, there will be no more cricket keeping!

Hubby's Hands

2012-01-03T18:22:00.000-08:00

These wonderful hands went back to work today. Hubby is an extremely hard-worker. It's one of the qualities I admire about him. He's always careful to balance his work with caring for his family too.

Last night, Hubby started easing back into work - grading papers and such. He didn't do much of that during break and I'm so thankful. Not so much for me, but for him. I think he truly feels like he rested and had a break.

Of course he finished a big project during his time off! Over a year ago, he had the heater in his truck "fixed" (didn't last long) and those who fixed it cracked the dashboard. However, they didn't take responsibility for it, yada, yada, yada. During break, Hubby fixed the heater AND replaced the dashboard.

Thanks Hubby for being great at fixing things on our cars and around the house. You have saved us thousands and thousands of dollars. I think your hands are wonderful!

One Thousand Gifts - Happy New Year!

2012-01-02T10:54:00.000-08:00

Numbers 1042-1059, really. I still haven't figured out why when I copy in Word and paste here that the numbers change. If anyone knows, please comment! It is Monday and we all (including me subbing) go back to school Wednesday. Although in some ways I am wishing for more time to give to my home (we really just took time off during this break), I am thankful for a sub job. I am also ready to get back into "normal".

708 Lost water bottle found when we didn’t even know it was lost

709 Jesus Calling – wonderful devotional

710 Time with Aunt Friday and Saturday

711 Winning a giveaway

712 Safe flight (for Hubby and L in horrible winds)

713 New Year

714 Hubby working on his truck and detailing the car

715 Friends over

716 Vegetable soup simmering on the stove

717 Catching some of the Rose Parade (I love parades!)

718 After Christmas sale on candles

719 New things for church and work on the horizon

720 He said go to the conference

721 Sweet moments at bedtime

722 Answer to prayer

723 4 tubes of Nivea lip balm for $2

724 Purple sleep pants and pajamas

725 His presence and peace

On The Home Front - Last One for 2011

2011-12-31T21:04:00.000-08:00

A peek through my window…. Over 70 degrees on the last day of 2011! And I wasn’t home to enjoy it. It was too windy for much walking anyway.

What’s going on this week… The tree must come down, drama for L. (planned kind – one he is in at church), and I start subbing kinder.

What “the boys” are doing… M just decided to make buffalo something or other – I can hear pans in the kitchen. Levi played in two indoor soccer games today.

On my mind… End of the year/beginning of the year. I’ve read lots of great end of year blog posts and while I’ve had lots of great end of year thoughts, I haven’t wanted to write anything.

On my bedside table… Billy Graham Nearing Home is actually right here on my desk. I need to finish it so I can review it – planned to do it for the end of the year and it didn’t happen. I started The Prayer Life of Agnes Sparrow on my Hubby's kindle.

I am richly blessed… to have enjoyed Saturday with my family – grocery shopping, soccer games, dinner, the mall and watching Courageous. Glad Aunt was along (we walked at a park between games – I almost got blown off the path, literally).

I’m praying for… several health issues for friends (near, far, and bloggy friends). Also praying for friendships in general.

Our home… groceries need to be put away. Can wait til tomorrow when football will be on all. day. long.

Menu planning… Leftovers. I know that’s not a good Jan. 1 meal, but it’s quick after church on Sunday and frugal. I'll make some vegetable soup on Monday and something else of course.

A photo or two…

This is what Hubby and L did this morning. The yellow plane is L's Scout leader.

Hot Now (or I Love Free)

2011-12-29T17:49:00.000-08:00

I must confess, I absolutely love free things. After doctors appts., shopping, and dinner tonight, Hubby, the boys and I went by Krispy Kreme. We were slightly disappointed to see that on Nov. 1 they stopped offering free donuts when the light was on. I understand the cost thing and I was only disappointed that I didn't get my chocolate milk. See, whenever they gave me a free donut, I always felt obligated to buy milk. Now, that I paid the 89 cents, I just got water.

Anyway, the donut was still good. I still enjoyed being with my family. M and I headed home while Hubby and L stayed in the city for soccer practice. On the way home we saw the donut billboard for Quick Trip - they're only 79 cents there. M informed me that the QT donuts are bigger and they taste just the same. Uh, no - they do not taste just the same.

Before going home, I stopped at Walgreen's to get my FREE photos (25 free through Dec. 31). Did I mention that I love free things? I actually got two copies of each photo I ordered because someone made a mistake. I love it when they pass the extra photos on to me instead of trashing them.

Speaking of free, I'm also loving this website that Aunt help me discover. Whenever there is a free kindle book I download it. There are so many that I even get to be choosy and really, I already have about 10 free books there that I haven't read yet. If you check out the site and want a book, get it right away. I've gotten a book free and looked again a few days later and it's 9.99 or 12.99. I love free so much more!

Christmas 2011

2011-12-26T21:05:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve Eve, the boys and Aunt went to look at lights while Hubby and I went out and then wrapped presents.

Christmas Eve Service

Went to the "Castle" where every blow-up Christmas decoration known in existence was on display.

See the goat in the manger? Hubby had great discussion with L. about Baby Jesus in the manger. Seeing these goats helped us picture what the first Christmas may have been like.

L on Christmas Eve. Have a great one of M. too and I can't get it to post horizontally!

Outside the Castle

The boys and Aunt made candles.

Beautiful drive-tru display. Definitely worth the time it took.

Gingerbread hot cocoa is amazing!

Opening stockings. The boys took turns reading the Christmas story from Luke before we opened presents.

M was excited to get his Kindle

L thought it was funny he got bath gel instead of a Kindle (his came later).

I love this picture of Aunt!

Part way through opening gifts, J. crawled up on Hubby's lap...and stayed there a long time.

Making Christmas breakfast.

A walk after dinner.

Discussing the best route

My aunt & uncle, uncle and cousins from NC. I made a traditional German dish - cabbage rolls for dinner. The last of our Christmas 2011 celebrations.

One Thousand Gifts - December 26

2011-12-26T13:19:00.000-08:00

1017 Fresh smell in the air when you walk by houses where people are doing laundry

1018 Fun Christmas oven mitt and trivet

1019 Space to breathe

1020 Looking at lights with Hubby

1021 Praying with Hubby for a new acquaintance

1022 A surprise manicure

1023 All the presents wrapped

1024 A flashing elf light from Christmas past

1025 Redoing a light and potpourri Christmas craft

1026 Expressions of concern and love from family

1027 Good dr. reports for family member

1028 Wonderful acknowledgments of a family member

1029 A Nativity set from when the boys were young

1030 Planning ahead

1031 The sweetest Hubby ever!

1032 A very relaxed Christmas day

1033 The “schedule” how ever we want it

1034 Asparagus

1035 A new tradition for opening gifts

1036 A walk after dinner

1037 Skyping family in Texas

1038 Playing with the baby goats on Christmas Eve

1039 Thoughtfulness

1040 The realness of the 1st Christmas after seeing a manger

1041 Gingerbread hot cocoa

A Christmas Eve "On The Home Front"

2011-12-24T12:42:00.000-08:00

A peek through my window…. Had to shut the blinds so J. would stop barking at all the Christmas Eve games of football going on outside. It is so beautiful out!

What’s going on this week… Hubby is home from work this week. We have some days planned of cleaning out the office, closets, etc. On Monday night my cousin and his family are coming over. They are in from North Carolina.

What “the boys” are doing… watching football upstairs, questioning all the specifics about Christmas plans, L is now playing monopoly with Aunt.

On my mind… taking the time to just be. Slowing down this week. Looking ahead to the new year. I’m also thinking of Isaac’s stocking (see link) and that if we had planned to go to Albuquerque this year we may not have made it because of weather.

On my bedside table… I read Hannah’s Hope by Karen Kingsbury sitting by the fire the other night while I was waiting for Hubby and the boys to come home. It was very predictable, but a nice Christmas read.

I am richly blessed… to have such a giving husband. Besides all the ways he's given to others this season, he surprised me with a manicure when M & L were getting their hair cut yesterday. We were also blessed with a wonderful date night of shopping, dinner and looking at lights. Really enjoyed having so much time to talk. I love being with my best friend!

I’m praying for… several who are hurting this Christmas season.

Our home… pretty tidy right now – ready for “the big day”. Right now our home smells like cinnamon as I’ve got all the Christmas candles going.

Menu planning… Chili tonight, ham for Christmas dinner, and cabbage rolls for family on Monday – a family recipe and German tradition that my grandmother and Mom used to make.

A photo or two…

A Different Christmas

2011-12-23T14:30:00.000-08:00

Two Christmases ago was different, we celebrated early with Oklahoma family and went to Albuquerque. It was the first time all four cousins were together on Christmas. Last Christmas was different, we celebrated early again and this time took Aunt with us to Albuquerque.

This year is really different. It is the first year that both Mom and Dad aren't with us. I don't remember the grief being this heavy the Christmas after Mom died. But for the past two weeks, I haven't wanted to do anything Christmasy - or anything for that matter. Do you know the feeling when just putting a load of clothes in the washer takes all the energy you've got? Last Sunday at church God overwhelmed me with the sermon and reminded me that Christmas was all about Him coming to be with me.

Emmanuel - God is with me and my spirit lifted some and some joy returned. This week I've gotten emails from family that have reminded me..Emmanuel - God is with me and my spirit lifted some and some joy returned. On Wednesday, I took a walk in the park letting the cold air numb my cheeks. I have missed the walks that I don't take when I sub regularly. My walks are where my heart prays and my soul breathes. I came home just as the sky was starting to turn purple with the sun setting and I was reminded that Emmanuel - God is with me and my spirit lifted some and some joy returned.

Another day this week, I read this in a post at inCourage "Every year Emmanuel means something different. Life peels back more layers and we’re left standing raw until they heal. But God coming down to this gritty, dusty, land of the dying makes every difference in our hope for living. He is with us. He is in us. He is here." The full post was called "When Everything is Different" and was very fitting to me. I linked it for you to read if this Christmas is different for you.

Each year God speaks to me a new word (one of His names) that He is going to be for me in the coming year. (I know He is always all of His names, this is just a particularly meaningful one for the year). 2011 was Grace. Normally, I know the name part way through January. Could it be that this is the name already for 2012? Emmanuel. I think so - God is Emmanuel not only during the Christmas season, but always.

So, I think I'm ready now. Yes, it will still be different, but I'm ready now to celebrate and enjoy and watch my children enjoy.

Better Late Than Never

2011-12-21T13:55:00.000-08:00

I don't consider myself to be crafty, but every now and then I do something that I'm pleased with. I made an ornament for a friend's wedding. Actually someone at soccer mentioned seeing it on Pinterest. I didn't look - I refuse to let myself be sucked in by Pinterest, though I'm sure it would be wonderful and fun. I just don't have time to go there. I showed the ornament I made to a friend. She loved and it and said it should have a blog post. I am just now (first day of Christmas break) getting around to it.

Anyway - this is a great idea for a personal gift for someone getting married in November or December (well anytime really, but you'll only be able to find the fun box seasonally). I bought the box, clear glass ornaments and ribbon (in a color to match the wedding) at Hobby Lobby. I chose square ornaments - I liked that they weren't ordinary. I cut the wedding invitation in strips (tiny - not measured, just "eyeballed") and wrapped them around a pencil to curl them. Then I tucked them inside the bulb (almost didn't make it because the opening was smaller than I expected!) . I used the unsharpened pencil to help arrange them. The ribbon I used was shimmery - I made the loop for hanging long and did a regular bow on top. Super easy, but in my opinion beautiful!

I used paper shred I already had, put the ornament in the box along with a personal note and a Target gift card. Viola! Wedding present. By the way, the wedding was at the Rancho de Corrales Event Center and was one of the most beautiful that I've ever attended.

One Thousand Gifts - December 21

2011-12-21T13:26:00.000-08:00

I finally decided I needed to consistently call these posts One Thousand Gifts and not Multitude on Mondays because I rarely make it on Monday anymore! Several friends celebrated with me and commented when I reached 1000 and thanks to a friend's encouragement I will keep posting.

1001 Starting another 1000

1002 Being at Colonial Days

1003 The feeling of Christmas break

1004 Blessing another family

1005 Rockin Robin #2011 at the diner

1006 M feeling well enough to go to the lock-in

1007 Shopping with Aunt on Sunday

1008 Helping at Toys for Tots

1009 Hubby making me laugh

1010 Laughing as a family to Home Alone 3

1011 Unexpected Gifts

1012 Immanuel God is with me

1013 A sermon and an email from a family member speaking truth to me.

1014 My hope is in the Lord

1015 A morning to sit down and write, read and reflect

1016 Sweet nourishment for my soul

Merry Christmas 2011!!!!

2011-12-18T18:34:00.000-08:00

Early January some of our dear friends came to visit and both our families went to the Toby Mac concert. We had a wonderful weekend. Shortly after that however, we found out my Dad had cancer. He passed away exactly two weeks later. In July, D (Hubby) had a near miss in his airplane; I did not keep my full-time teaching job due to low enrollment; and we have spent the past three months helping M deal with/make it through two concussions. It has not exactly been a banner year for us and I have sat down many times to write this letter, but have struggled with being real and risk a “downer” Christmas letter or making everything sound “rosy”.

Now, that you know we are a very real family with very real life happening, I can put it into perspective. This was the sermon text at church today” Galatians 4:4 (I’ve included through verse 7 here) But when the time arrived that was set by God the Father, God sent his Son, born among us of a woman, born under the conditions of the law so that he might redeem those of us who have been kidnapped by the law. Thus we have been set free to experience our rightful heritage. You can tell for sure that you are now fully adopted as his own children because God sent the Spirit of his Son into our lives crying out, "Papa! Father!" Doesn't that privilege of intimate conversation with God make it plain that you are not a slave, but a child? And if you are a child, you're also an heir, with complete access to the inheritance.

So my perspective is the Incarnation – God is with us! He walks with us through each valley and mountain peak and daily pours out His blessing in our lives. We enjoyed traveling this year and seeing so many of our family members – I’ve included some highlights here (minus pictures of Aunt because the ones from Toys for Tots with her in them are still on her camera! The boys get to enjoy many wonderful times with her since she is so close).

Currently – M is starting to feel better. He just finished a semester long project for science and is first chair in band (trumpet). L started competitive soccer this year and is playing indoor 3 v 3 while he is between fall and spring season. I just finished subbing in fourth grade for two weeks and after the break will be in Kinder for six weeks. We are looking forward to having Hubby at home (not at work) from the day before Christmas Eve through New Year’s Day.

We hope you and yours have a wonderful Christmas and New Year and that you daily walk in the miracle of Immanuel - God is with us!

February first we got two feet of snow and a week later got 18 inches more. We had fun being out of school two weeks and playing all day!

We made two trips to Dallas this year. This was for a Stars game.

New Mexico fromt he air. Hubby flew the boys there to start their summer with a two week visit.

Aunt and I spent the first week of our summer cleaning out Dad's house. Shortly after we had his side of the family over for a mini-reunion. It was fun meeting 2nd and 3rd cousins for the first time!

This was from the 2nd visit to Dallas for the 4th of July - enjoyed a baseball game together and then later I stayed a few days with a friend while the boys spent more time with their cousin.

Also in July we visited family in Denver and the boys and I accompanied Hubby to a conference in Colorado Springs. Loved, loved, loved seeing Focus on the Family, the Olympic Training Center and The Air Force Academy.

The boys would definitely say cruising with extended family was the highlight of their year. This is the four of us in Puerto Rico.

First day of 7th grade for M and 5th grade for L

Toys for Tots pictures - We have served as a family for three years now.

You can see some of our ornaments in both pics. This is the first year that I've had several ornaments from my parents' tree. I love looking at all our ornaments and remembering.

Merry Christmas!

On The Home Front - December 17

2011-12-17T08:04:00.000-08:00

A peek through my window…. I’ve already been out to do errands and it’s cold! The sun in shining though so the frost on the ground is gone and it looks beautiful out! S – 57 M – 48 T – 44 W – 46 Th – 50.

What’s going on this week… Last two days before Christmas break so school is going to be crazy! My last two days of subbing in fourth grade (2 ½ weeks – I sub in Kinder for 6 weeks after the break) . I am so excited though, I get to take Monday afternoon off to be at L’s Colonial Days. We’ll have the end of the week to finish up our family’s Christmas plans.

What “the boys” are doing… showering and probably bemoaning the fact that they have to do their Saturday chores BEFORE we leave for Toys for Tots.

M has not played his instrument for three weeks because of his headaches. This week he had to play for his semester test and he tied for first chair! That success has him reconsidering staying in band for next year. I hope he does.

On my mind… having to go to the Post Office before we got help at Toys for Tots. I was there about 8:30 this morning and they don’t open until 10 am on Saturday! That’s just crazy.

On my bedside table… I finished the Christmas novel on my Hubby's Kindle earlier this week. It was called O Little Town. It was written by one of the Stattler Brothers (old Country music group for those who might not know) – don’t have it right here and I can think of his name right now.

I am richly blessed… I completed 1000 on my list of 1000 Gifts!

I’m praying for… an unspoken request.

Our home… is extremely messy right now.

Menu planning… Nada. At some point this weekend we will eat the spicy pork that I made yesterday in the crockpot.

A photo or two…

Don't even ask!

Completed, But Not Finished

2011-12-15T15:09:00.000-08:00

It's not Monday (I know this isn't surprising because often I post late...), but I have completed my list of 1,000 gifts. Completed, but not finished. I started October 2010 - here and completed the written list in a bubble bath last night. Not finished, because I'll keep listing (I haven't decided if I'll keep posting, but my purple journal has lots more pages left in it!)

It has been a "trying" year. I keep sitting down to write my Christmas letter, but I don't want it to sound negative.... Anyway - this whole year, it's this list that has helped me keep perspective and choose contentment and joy regardless of circumstances. Here are #s 970 -1000

970 Excitement of a mission project

971 The whistle of the kettle

972 Visits with two friends

973 Hubby loves me!

974 Surprise flowers

975 A book from a friend

976 Christmas music from friend

977 Making cookies together

978 Time

979 Hubby came home early to help

980 Sweet children

981 A heartfelt note

982 God’s ways are higher than mine

983 Posts to remind me

984 I can hold a lot together even when I don’t want to!

985 Soccer practice time to read

986 A finished science project

987 Fun activities at school and L telling me about them

988 Every meaning behind every ornament

989 Lights on the tree

990 Asleep in front of the fire

991 Understanding friends

992 Cheap bubblebath

993 Almost 1,000 thank yous

994 The way it has changed me

995 Hope

996 A Christmas card from Dad

997 L

998 M

999 Hubby

1000 My Savior and Lord

A Special Christmas Card

2011-12-10T20:03:00.001-08:00

Last year as we received Christmas cards I put them in a basket near the fireplace so I could go back through and look at them, etc. As the year went on, that's where the sympathy cards in February and three sets of birthday cards in April went too. I cleaned out the basket last week so it'd be ready for a new set of cards. Unfortunately, "clean out" meant "piled on my desk".

Today I really went through the cards so I could recycle the fronts of them. Some I blindly tore and some I re-read. I got to the last card and paused instead of tearing and read the inside "Love, Dad" I wondered who it could possibly be from since I knew it wasn't Dad's handwriting. Then I remembered, I got the card in the mail from the Veteran's Center last year and it really was from Dad - he just had a little help - signing the card, remembering, and sending it. It is my last Christmas card from Dad.

Multitutudes on Monday - December 5

2011-12-05T15:15:00.001-08:00

These are numbers 947-969. I write in Word and copy and paste to blogger. The number changes happen a lot, but I can usually try again and it turns out right. Lately though, I'm having to leave it numbered wrong. Anyone with suggestions to why this happening?

708 Subbing for 2 weeks
709 A great children’s book
710 Quick referrals
711 Fireplace and warmth on my back
712 Taking the boys to school
713 L being quick to help out with science notebook
714 Being reminded of something forgotten
715 Knowing Christ a little more fuller today than I did yesterday
716 A blessing spoken
717 Welcome and help
718 Ways to get rid of M’s headaches
719 Lost glove found!
720 Not raining in the morning and mild weather to walk
721 Sun peeking behind the clouds
722 Good time out Christmas shopping
723 $ off
724 Indoor 3v3 soccer fun to watch
725 Company for dinner
726 Christmas movies
727 Starting something new
728 Snow going east of us so no bad roads here
729 Celebrating with hot chocolate
730 Remembering all the words for a test

On the Home Front - December 3

2011-12-03T19:41:00.000-08:00

A peek through my window… I expected it to be raining when I woke up, but was pleasantly surprised to see some sun and have pretty mild temps. I got about a 40 min. walk in. By the time I got in the shower around 11 though it had started raining and rained most of the day. Aunt heard that our forecast is for 2 – 20” of snow! I’ve never heard a forecast like that! Someone is covering all the bases I guess. The temp still looks pretty warm for much of a storm. S – 44 M – 35 T – 38 W – 39.

What’s going on this week… Ladies Christmas party at church and baking for a small party at our house next Sunday. I’m looking forward to both.

What “the boys” are doing… Watching bedlam. The OSU/OU game is on – most everyone when we were out today had either orange or red on.

On my mind… Subbing the next two weeks – have lots of names to remember. I’m thinking about that and about M. He is still having headaches even though he got medicine from the neurologist.

On my bedside table… Forgotten God by Frances Chan. I was so happy to see it in the box we brought home from Albuquerque.

I am richly blessed… I’m thinking about writing this year’s Christmas letter and I know that it has been a particularly hard year. However, I am getting close to reaching 1000 on my list of 1000 Gifts. Every time I read back over the list I know that even in hard times God has lavished us with His grace and His beauty can be found in so many seemingly small things. If you have not taken the challenge to record 1000 gifts, I highly recommend it – I have complained less and been more content since starting the regular practice.

I’m praying for… M and for a friend’s kids who have been sick a lot. One has something potentially serious going on. Her health and peace for the family have been in my prayers a lot today.

Our home… is decorated for Christmas. There are some things I didn’t get out – like Christmas dishes and some things that didn’t work – like the lights on the mantle garland, but that’s okay. I still love each and every special ornament on the tree (that’s really the only deco. I need. Everything else is bonus and I have my Nativity sets out all year).

Menu planning… Roast for dinner after church tomorrow. I grocery shopped two nights ago and got the ingredients for taco soup. The forecast makes me think this will be a perfect week for it.

A photo or two…

Hubby (on the left) and a dear friend - We attended his wedding

while in Albuquerque for Thanksgiving.

America: The Last Best Hope Vol. III

2011-11-28T19:16:00.000-08:00

America: The Last Best Hope (Volume III) From the Collapse of Communism to the Rise of Radical Islam
By William Bennett

Twenty years is a long time. However, Bennett believed that more time needed to pass to digest the history of 1989 – 2009 before writing this third volume. Many, especially in the education community, though persisted in asking for this history book to be written to bring us as up to date as possible. I love history, but have seen my share of boring history books. This is not one of those! “America” Vol. III is warm, relational and thought-provoking. Bennett writes with first-hand knowledge having served as Secretary of Education under President Reagan and as Drug Czar under President George H.W. Bush.

I, like many, lived during the events in the book so I have my own memories of what happened and where I was when I heard about the events. I appreciated the insight to what was going on on a deeper level and seeing how the events fit together to form a bigger picture. Even though the book is political and world event (including great changes in media and technology) in nature, Bennett included mention of country music. It fit though and was reflective of culture.
Most interesting to me was the epilogue. The book was written in 2009 and in the epilogue Bennett reflects on the hopes and fears of Americans. He is very hopeful in America rising to its challenges. Unfortunately, it seems that in the two years since, we have spiraled downward instead of rising. I wonder what will be written as history eighteen years from now.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Cooper & Me and the Winter Adventure

2011-11-28T15:28:00.000-08:00

When I returned from traveling for Thanksgiving, a new book was waiting in my stack of mail. I laid it on my desk and thought that I’d get around to reviewing it in the next week “sometime”. I read it while waiting on the phone and had to write the review right away because it was so good! I wanted you to have time for some good opportunities before Christmas too! First the book – from a Mom standpoint, I loved that the book had fun, lovable characters and taught a valuable lesson (what to do when you are lost). From an educator’s standpoint, I loved that the book had wonderful rhyme and flow, used rich language and included higher level thinking questions. I am both Mom and educator and Cooper & Me and the Winter Adventure is worthy of your home and/or school library.

This book is perfect for PreK – 2nd grade and will offer a wonderful springboard for discussion. “Life Lesson” and “Connections” are included to help you with that too. Often young children have trouble talking about “what to do in a difficult situation”, but adventuresome dogs, Cooper and Bella will give children a story where children can relate and easily discuss what they would do if they were in a situation like the dogs (lost).

Here are some specifics on the book:
Website: http://www.cooperandme.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Cooper-and-Me-Inc/214695101924101
Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/cooper_and_me

Now for the OPPORTUNITIES:

First, $1 of every Winter Adventure book sold will go to advance research & treatment of pancreatic cancer, via the Lustgarten Foundation (http://www.lustgarten.org/)

Next, our friends at Cooper & Me are offering an EXCLUSIVE DEAL FOR YOU

Make any purchase of $25 or more at CooperandMe.com and get FREE SHIPPING now through December 15.

MUST USE THIS CODE @ Check Out: COOPERBLOG

Finally, you can enter to win a copy of Cooper & Me and the Winter Adventure. Simply visit the Cooper & Me website and make a comment here specifically about it. I will close the contest at 11:59 pm on Dec. 2 (so you don’t have much time!) and use random.org to select a winner.

I hope you take advantage of these opportunities. Enjoy Cooper & Me!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of Cooper & Me and the Winter Adventure for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Multitutudes on Monday - November 28

2011-11-28T07:29:00.000-08:00

Even though I have sick kids and need to be leaving for a dr's appt. soon, my uncle is in the hospital and the stress of being in charge of Christmas parties is setting in (click here for the Crazy Mom Challenge - a great reminder from iMOM), I want to pause and reflect. I want to share that we are richly blessed with a multitude of grace...

915 Day in Kindergarten
916 The Lord is faithful to all His promises
917 Friend here
918 Lunch with friends
919 Hearing family stories
920 A new sweater
921 Chasing the sun
922 Cousins
923 Movie
924 Attending a wedding together
925 200 year old adobe home
926 Seeing children I love dearly – 2 of whom I have wonderful memories of them playing with my children
927 Clearing skies
928 A song on a guitar
929 God’s amazing grace
930 Entertaining dinner (Japanese Steakhouse)
931 Hearing memories
932 Redeeming time
933 Gifts
934 Getting to go to Trader Joe’s
935 Talking to family member on phone/timing – while driving by our old house
936 Going home
937 Dion’s & Blake’s
938 Late night conversations
939 Appointment made
940 Flannel sheets
941 Hospitality for a stranger
942 A special snow globe
943 Spontaneous drive through a light display
944 Fun dinner out and watching part of the game
945 Safety for many miles traveled
946 Pine trees and mountains

Nourishing our bodies and spirits.
Thankful for grandparents and thankful for them helping the kids fill their plates on Thanksgiving.

On the Home Front - November 26

2011-11-26T07:50:00.000-08:00

No fancy graphic - I'm not at my computer. Only a few starters (the ones I remember)
A daybook written on location in Albuquerque.

Outside my window... a wonderful deck with views of the mountains and lots of glorious sunshine!

On my mind... being present in our Christmas celebrations. I probably have a bit more responsibility than I care too, but we are looking forward to our part in Toys for Tots and to Hubby being home (not working) between Christmas and New Year.

Reading.. I read "Lead for God's Sake" on the way here and started skimming Billy Graham's new book "Nearing Home" (belongs to family). I have a history book for the ride home (not light reading at all).

What the boys are doing...they worked filing at their grandparents' store yesterday. Basketball practice starts this next week.

Plans for the week...I'm not working Monday and Tuesday - going to chapel (at Christian school) where Hubby is preaching Monday and trying to catch up from being gone and work on Christmas plans.

Menu planning ... delicious traditional meal on Thanksgiving. Enjoyed ham, twice baked potatoes, green beans, rolls, and fresh veggies on Tuesday night with my uncle, the boys, Hubby, Aunt and friend C. Will make chicken morsels Monday night, but now it's time plan for the month...again (sometimes this task feels like laundry, it never ends).

I am richly blessed... have so enjoyed having family around my table this month - and joining in with family for Thanksgiving. It was a joy to read my youngest nephew bedtime stories and to catch a movie with him and my sis in law. Hubby and I were immensely blessed to attend the wedding of a dear friend yesterday. God's grace is amazing!!!

One Month to Live

2011-11-22T14:15:00.000-08:00

When we first moved back to Oklahoma, several churches in the area were going through the book One Month to Live. I hadn’t had the chance to read it yet, so when I was given the opportunity to read it for review, I quickly took it.

Besides the authentic, clear way the book is written with doable and real life examples, I love the methodical lay-out of this book! It is designed for a chapter to be read daily with each week having a different theme: live passionately, love completely, learn humbly and leave boldly. After a little bit of writing there is a “Make It Count Moment” that is designed for you to reflect on what you’ve read and think about your own life. At the end of the chapter is “Make It Last for Life” where three action steps are outlined. It doesn’t have to be overwhelming either. If we just took one of the three or one or two steps from each week and made some lasting changes – it could really improve our life!

At the beginning of each chapter are also two quotes. My favorite one in the book is “A ship is safe in harbor, but that’s not what ships are for” By William Shedd. The quotes, call for reflection, action steps, and style of writing are great for several different learning styles and provide “hooks” to make the message of the book stick.

I’m sure if we found out that we only had one month to live, our perspective would change and we’d strive to live each day to the fullest. We would focus on what truly mattered. One Month to Live has encouraged me to live that way now. When it is my time to leave this fleshy self, I want to have lived life on purpose.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

Integer Race

2011-11-21T17:58:00.000-08:00

My oldest, M - just doesn't feel very well right now. The nurse at school called today and when she didn't get me called my Hubby. After a second call - M got picked up at school. He was supposed to finish up some science project trials tonight, but I think that's going to have to wait.

Last week he turned in his math project. The assignment was to create a grade level appropriate math board game. M. did this racing theme where the object was adding and subtracting integers. (I must say that besides a few standardized tests, after college I never used negative numbers!).

The classes played/graded the games last Thursday and Friday. Here's M's creation:

Game of Your Life

2011-11-21T17:24:00.000-08:00

Family Movie Night's 'Game of Your Life' is set to air on NBC Friday, December 2nd at 8/7c,
Synopsis: Zach Taylor gets a scholarship to Digital Institute of Game Design (DIGD). For his freshman project, he, his two roommates and strong leader, Sara Ramirez spend hours developing an interactive game. Will Zach get to stay at DIGD or will his project fail? Will he be enticed to take a prohibited side job? What can he do to help his father facing troubles at home? Zach has several tough choices. This movie is all about making decisions and how those decisions affect others.

Website: http://www.familymovienight.com/game-of-your-life/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/familymovienight
Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/fmnib
Trailer: http://vimeo.com/31917601

This movie was not enjoyable for me to watch. However, I think that may have been because of my age or because I’m not a gamer. My ten year old spent a lot of time trying to figure out how the movie flowed together and kept asking me what was going on. Don’t let that stop you from watching though. Your kids might love it!

Overall, I really appreciate Walmart and Proctor and Gamble for sponsoring movies that you can feel comfortable sitting down and watching with your family. ‘Game of Your Life’ was clean with no questionable words or content and taught a character building lesson. It would be a great springboard to talk about loyalty, fairness, honesty, tough decisions, and commitment.

I received special access to a screening of this movie and all opinions are certainly my own.

Multitutudes on Monday - November 21

2011-11-21T14:35:00.000-08:00

This is Thanksgiving week and our multitudes keep overflowing. We've had some health issues to deal with - M's headaches and my carpal tunnel; the weather is dreary now; and we have a couple issues we're working through - yet we still have so much to thank our Provider for graciously giving...

901 Finishing a math project together
902 Solution worked on
903 Free stuff
904 Cfa with M
905 Starting science project
906 Hearing boys talking in bed
907 Walk with J on a windy day
908 So warm I had to open a window on Saturday
909 Absolutely wonderful human video
910 L using his talents to praise the Lord
911 Shopping for shoebox
912 Hubby going with us
913 A shirt fitting
914 The grove of trees in the park that I can see from sitting at my desk

2011-11-20T12:21:00.000-08:00

A peek through my window… Foggy and windy. It even looks cold! S – 47 M – 55 T – 53 W – 63 Th – 67. Our van is parked on the street with only one headlight waiting for the new one. I’m sorry for Hubby that time got away yesterday (soccer game and too many other things) and he has to replace it today. Yesterday it was so warm I had to open a window and change to short sleeves!

What’s going on this week… Thanksgiving! Aunt’s best friend comes to town. I’m having lunch out with them and another friend on Tuesday and Tuesday night we’re going to have Thanksgiving here with my uncle (this is my Mom’s only brother).

What “the boys” are doing… Downtown missions is today for M. and L. starts practice for Bible competition. No soccer this week! Before or after missions M needs to work on his science project more. We had a good time together yesterday starting it – lunch at Cfa, shopping for supplies and then testing out what he needed to do.

On my mind… my things to do list sitting right here – some Christmas shopping before going to Abq., some reviews, Thanksgiving cards, getting to the P.O. (I don’t like going there at all!), and cleaning out the car (yes, mine – the one that still smells like a skunk!)

On my bedside table… One Month to Live

I am richly blessed… with a warm home and my family here. We worshipped together this morning (Aunt along with both boys in the service and Hubby preaching) and now one boy is upstairs playing video games and another is watching the game and cheering for the Cowboys. Hubby’s in the cold fixing the above mentioned light.

I’m praying for… many things. I'm praying for our small group and upcoming travels and holiday celebrations.

Our home… new candles are making it smell wonderful – and it’s almost clean – I had to take a break and write/post this.

Menu planning… Finger foods tonight for small group, chicken tacos, rice and broccoli tomorrow night and ham Tuesday.

A photo or two…

M and Cousin last weekend

A Truly Ordinary Evening

2011-11-18T18:45:00.001-08:00

The main purpose of Our extra-Ordinary Life is a family journal (with some reviews thrown in) - so I wanted to post what a very ordinary evening is like here. On Thursday, a soccer practice night,I had subbed so I got home "late" (4). I checked email and made dinner while the boys did some chores and whatever else they did. M. took these pictures at dinner mostly from the perspective of the camera on the "J" bar counter.

We left the house around 5:45 to take L to Hubby's office so they could go shopping for indoor soccer cleats and go to practice. I got a call from a friend in Texas and we talked during the 20min. drive to the office (and back!). M. and I went to the YMCA basketball meeting and really didn't find out any new information, but it was nice being part of community and running into people we knew. He and I then went and picked up canned food goods for the school's food drive. We retired to the couch to study fungi and cells, etc. for his science test - while the football game was on (I know it's awful that I let him study like that!).

Hubby and L. came home with new cleats, but with uncertainty about keeping them (sometimes I feel like store exchanges are the story of my shopping life!). The indoor season is only 8 games and if L can wear his regular cleats, he'd rather put the money towards better outdoor cleats. Whatever - it was nice that they had a better selection at the new sporting goods store.

I spent some time working on Bible quizzing/competition with L. and then after we had put both boys in bed, Hubby and I watched the news and then went to bed.

Update: After this ordinary evening - I overslept about 45 minutes. Yay!, Hubby for sticking around to take L. to school (since there was no way the boys were going to make the bus). I subbed near Micah's school so I took him (and we even had time to stop for sweet tea for me). I made it to my school with these shoes on...

Wouldn't you like to have such a beautiful pair?

Multitutudes on Monday - November 14

2011-11-14T12:25:00.000-08:00

These are really #870-899, but I can't figure out why when I copy from Word and paste here that the numbers turn. The point isn't what number I'm on though, it's that God continues calling me to see His grace and beauty all around. Multitudes - there are many many blessings in my life every single day!

708 Brothers getting along
709 Curiosity of a quake
710 Shelled pecans
711 Grocery lists
712 People we know to chat with when we’re out
713 Give thanks to the Lord
714 Prayer time with a dear sister in the Lord
715 God continues to answer and guide
716 L’s excitement to make something
717 The sparkle in M’s eyes
718 Time, warmth and cuddles
719 Helping someone
720 Taking time to stop
721 Living in the U.S.A.
722 Flannel sheets
723 Cars with out of state plates in our driveway
724 Family around our dining table
725 Apples to apples
726 Putting a puzzle together
727 Shopping with family
728 Dogface
729 Car not being in the driveway when the basketball goal blew over
730 Yellow cake with chocolate frosting
731 Time alone together
732 Aunt home safely
733 Treated to lunch and dinner out
734 A wonderful reminder in the Sunday sermon
735 A pastor who preaches truth
736 Prayer on the front porch
737 I really enjoy that the boys enjoyed the weekend so much!

On the Home Front - November 13

2011-11-13T12:32:00.001-08:00

A peek through my window… It’s 73 degrees on Nov. 13. Enough said!

What’s going on this week… Soccer season ended yesterday – soccer practice continues this week. Toys for Tots registration starts this week and I plan to help on days I’m not working – I have a sub job for Wed. through Friday already.

What “the boys” are doing… M has a school math project due Wed. and L. has three nights of drama practice for a performance on Saturday.

On my mind… I agreed to coach a Bible competition for 4th – 6th graders and offer some guidance for memorization and “sword drill”. The CD is sitting right here on my desk and I need to get going on preparation because our first practice is in one week.

On my bedside table… New book – but I think I’m going to save it for the drive to Albuquerque to read.

I am richly blessed… I was so ecstatic to have cars from other states in my driveway and family around my table for dinner this weekend!

I’m praying for… a large number of people at church going through difficult times.

Our home… is not messy from company, but I hope to have time tomorrow to put it back “together”. I need to get a Christmas gift wrapped (so I’ll have to make a trip to the attic) and a baby gift sent off in the mail.

Menu planning… Leftovers, something chicken, sweet & spicy pork, cube steak & bumble bee (shell) mac n cheese (the staple Sunday dinner at my house growing up).

A photo or two…

FFH One Silent Night

2011-11-12T17:14:00.000-08:00

This Christmas album has totally changed my outlook! I have long been a “nothing Christmas until the day after Thanksgiving” kind of person. After reviewing this album, I wanted to put up the tree, shop, and write Christmas cards! This is not just another Christmas album and you’ll definitely want to add it to your Christmas celebrations.

“FFH, On Silent Night” is a wonderful mix of classics and original songs. You’ll recognize songs such as Winter Wonderland and O Little Town of Bethlehem and quickly fall in love with original ones such as The Birthday of a King and One Silent Night. My absolutely favorite song was “Glorious Impossible”. I have listened to it over and over and will throughout the year. It is a beautiful Christmas song and wonderful praise song at the same time.

I love how “homey” this album made me feel. It felt like FFH was sitting in my living room playing their music in front of the fireplace while we enjoyed hot tea and conversation around the Christmas tree. However, one of the best compliments of “One Silent Night” came from my 12 year old son. He walked into the office when I was listening to the album – he had no idea what I was doing – he just heard the music and exclaimed “We need to keep this!”

I’m looking forward to making “One Silent Night” part of our Christmas. Would you like to also? One reader of Our extra-Ordinary Life will get to enjoy FFH, One Silent Night with a free download of the whole album! Do the first one or all of these:
1) Leave me a comment about your favorite Christmas song in general (Mandatory Entry).
2) Follow my blog. (2nd Entry)
3) Put a link to this contest on your blog, fb, or twitter (3rd Entry)

I’ll hold the contest open until November 19 and then use random.org to select a winner. If your profile page does not show your email address, please include your email address in your comment.

Website: http://ffh.net/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/FFHmusic
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/FFHMusic
iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/one-silent-night/id474548207

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”.

Honoring Our Veterans

2011-11-12T11:18:00.001-08:00

My Dad was a Veteran. He served in the Air Force and was in Greenland during the Korean War. (It's because of this service that Dad was able to live his last year at a Veteran's Center - and I am so grateful to the wonderful care he received, especially at the one close to my home.) I was looking for a picture of him in uniform when he was young to post, but I didn't find one on the computer so I'm posting this one. He and Aunt had come to visit us in Texas and we ate lunch at Arby's before they left for home. I don't remember who or what it was that made me laugh - but I like that the picture shows we were having a good time.

Yesterday after I finished subbing I went to the cemetery to put a flag on Dad's grave. It reminded me that he always had a flag on the antennae of his car (how funny that kids growing up today aren't going to know what car antennas are!)

I had the privilege of attending L's school's Veteran's Day assembly Monday (in the second picture he is on the back row, 3rd from the right) and the one at the school I subbed yesterday. I am posting these pictures in honor of all Veterans. I'm very grateful for their service and sacrifice!

Blame It On the Rain

2011-11-08T06:42:00.000-08:00

Though I leave my purse at the frozen yogurt place, though I run over a dead skunk on the way home and can't park the car in the garage because of the smell, though the earth keeps shaking, though the roof is leaking (again) and we need to call a repairman, though my car now smells like wet skunk, yet I am thankful for the rain. I am thankful for a car to drive, money to buy frozen yogurt and someone to share it with, and for our home. I will rejoice in the Lord, my covenant maker and keeper. I will be joyful in God my Savior.

Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior. Habakuk 3:16-18

His Steadfast Love by Golden Keyes Parsons

2011-11-07T10:36:00.000-08:00

I was first drawn to the novel, His Steadfast Love, by it’s tagline, “A Civil War Novel”. I am a history buff and that particular time period has always fascinated me. In the book, Amanda Belle is “in the middle” of: her brother fighting for the Confederacy and the man she loves, an officer for the Union; a promise made and the stirrings of her heart; life as she has always known it and wartime; how she views slavery and challenges to her views; and finally, her Father’s faith and wrestling with what she believes about God and His working in our life.

This plot and sub-plots serve to make His Steadfast Love well-rounded and fully developed. I am not a fan of romance novels so it was a welcome relief that the book wasn’t drippy and only focused on Amanda and her beloved. Love stories of other friends and family members were even included. Those who are fans of romance novels won’t be disappointed by the romantic encounters, waiting and love notes.

Author, Golden Keyes Parsons, uses vivid details and words that painted wonderful pictures for me and kept me fully engaged. The week that I read this book, I substituted all week, and I almost couldn’t stand it when I had to stop reading.

I appreciated historical facts that were included. Some I had not considered before and some gave me ideas for further exploration. I also liked that a reader’s guide was included. The questions are perfect for further personal consideration of issues raised in His Steadfast Love, or for a book club discussion. I would definitely recommend this book.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Multitutudes on Monday - November 8

2011-11-07T09:20:00.000-08:00

Oklahoma experienced several earthquakes on Saturday. Although, there have been some in the past, the one felt Saturday around 11pm, was recorded as the strongest ever in Oklahoma at a 5.6. This was the only one I felt due to either being asleep or distance from the epicenter. It was my first experience like this and although a novelty, not something I want to happen frequently. I am thankful that there was no loss of life due to the earthquakes and minimal damage.

This continues my list of counting my multitudes - I am blessed. He freely gives grace...

846 The #24 waiting on our table
847 An explanation – a kind word – much appreciated
848 Hubby taking the time to explain what’s important in life
849 Inspiring movies
850 He (M) played for me again (trumpet)
851 Skipping across the parking lot with L
852 Unseasonably warm weather
853 Baby H born!
854 Pink and purple sky Sun. night and Wed. morning.
855 Glorious Impossible
856 Silliness
857 My first giveaway
858 We are going to ABQ!
859 Time with Hubby is absolutely wonderful!
860 His right hand will guide me, His right hand will hold me fast.
861 Beautiful mornings and time to walk
862 The sound of the leaves under our feet
863 Seeing my favorite runner in the park
864 The Canadian geese are here
865 A breakfast date
866 The American flag
867 Veteran’s program
868 Smiles and hugs from L
869 L in his Scout uniform

On the Home Front - November 5

2011-11-05T08:11:00.000-07:00

A peek through my window… S – 70 , M –71 , T – 69 , W – 56. Even though we’ve had some chilly mornings, I can’t complain. It’s November and is feeling pretty warm still! It looks kind of windy out right now and the skies are still grey. Hubby couldn’t fly this morning because of the clouds.

What’s going on this week… 31 Party tomorrow, Family comes on Thursday and more on Friday.

What “the boys” are doing… M – see “On My Mind”. L’s school Veteran’s program is Monday. Friday he’ll miss school in the afternoon to help at a “show”.

On my mind… I need to be picking M up at his game soon (boy the time goes quickly). Hopefully he’ll pass the “test” on Monday and can practice that night and play Tuesday.

On my bedside table… I started reading One Month to Live this week.

I am richly blessed… we are going to travel for Thanksgiving after all and I’m really looking forward to it. I was also blessed this week with a free Christmas album.

I’m praying for… opportunities and stirrings of my heart.

Our home… after working all week, our home finally got some attention last night when I cleaned the dining room, living room, and boys’ bathroom.

Menu planning… My usual song “I still need to do this.” It will look a little different because of family visiting.

M ready for dinner. I know, it's disgusting to think we had hot dogs for dinner one night last week. I even only buy all beef hot dogs, but I'm still thinking I need to come up with some other menu plans! I really took the picture to show how warm it was even at 7 o'clock - I left the door open while I grilled.

Ever Grateful to Stop and Give Thanks and a Giveaway

2011-11-04T21:36:00.000-07:00

When our boys were little and November rolled around, I would cut out paper leaves in red, yellow, orange and brown. At dinner we would draw or write on the leaves the things for which we were thankful. The boys got older, we got busier, and I stopped making leaves. This summer as I was reading 1000 Gifts, I issued a challenge to the boys (it had to be in the form of a challenge, right? – They’re boys after all!) to start their own gratitude journals.

As our weather turned crisper, I started thinking about those paper leaves and a new challenge was issued: write more in those journals and we will share them on Mondays at dinner. Hubby joined in and is keeping his list on his phone. The boys have even started a game where one person names a number and someone else reads that number from their journal.

Last Monday, we gathered at a deli and shared our lists. I’m so grateful that our boys enjoy showing thanks! This Monday, we will gather at our table decorated with our Ever Grateful Reversible Table Runner from Dayspring.
I was so excited to open this when the Dayspring box came to my doorstep! The workmanship is wonderful and I love the colors! There’s a hint of color, but it is very neutral and won’t clash with other décor or tableware. One of the best parts is the message, “Let there be thankfulness to God”.

I love the warmth and inspiration it brings to our table. The runner is 72” long and 14” wide and coordinates with other items in the Ever Grateful line. It’s on sale this month and you can find it at the Dayspring Online Store.

Did you find other wonderful things when you looked? Thanks to the wonderful people at Dayspring, I am giving away a $20 coupon code to the Dayspring Online Store. This will be very simple to enter – visit the online store and leave me a comment telling me your favorite Dayspring item – that’s it.

If your profile page does not show your email address, please include your email address in your comment. I will use random.org to select a winner and will then notify you via email. (Contest will remain open through November 10.)

Disclosure: I received an Ever Grateful Table Runner free from Dayspring in return for my blog review. All opinions are completely mine and true.

One Thousand Gifts - November 3 and A Special Memory

2011-11-03T18:20:00.000-07:00

800 Holding hands
801 84 degrees on October 24
802 Sub calls
803 A week’s worth of dinners planned
804 Seeing one of Mom’s old friends at Aldi
805 More free books
806 Pepper jack cheese
807 How God shares the same thing through several ways – sermon, small group, Bible study
808 Early morning light
809 Found wrist brace
810 Convenience of online forms
811 Challenges issued
812 He is my Watchman
813 L. being able to do something he enjoys with Aunt – the rats – because I don’t want any part of them!
814 All the Trunk r Treat cards passed out
815 Homemade croutons
816 Coram Deo
817 Most of the trees changed overnight!
818 Pumpkin projects
819 Wednesday night Bible Study
820 Clean clothes
821 Good health
822 A smile that makes me smile
823 Purple pens
824 Finishing grading papers
825 Unexpected free evening
826 Polite children
827 A clown picture made by someone special
828 Pumpkin spice hand lotion at school
829 All four of us at dinner together at a regular time
830 Roasting marshmallows over the stovetop for
831 Smores
832 Watching the World Series
833 Jesus is my joy and salvation!
834 The arrows in our quiver
835 Walking in the rain
836 Consistently writing thank yous for over a year
837 Clear CT scan for M
838 I am fearfully and wonderfully made
839 M & Ms
840 Photo collage
841 God Bless America
842 Goodie Day at school
843 Winning a giveaway
844 Text from a friend
845 The beautiful sound of a bird singing as I walked

M was in kindergarten seven years ago and I am still thankful for his kindergarten teacher, Mr. Bunch. He was perfect for M and exactly who we prayed for! M. is the boy in bright blue standing next to the girl in hot pink and in front of their assistant teacher.

Revolution Worship...Live at Joy Church International and My First Giveaway

2011-11-02T19:06:00.000-07:00

“Revolution Worship…Live At Joy Church International” is a praise and worship album that I recently had the privilege to review. From the first download, I was impressed at how celebratory the music was. The album was released mid-October and climbed eleven spots this week on the Billboard chart.

An online Christian book distributor says this about “Revolution”: “The live band and full choir seamlessly blend gospel, funk, rock, and soulful R&B into an exhilarating worship celebration.” I loved the music, but my favorite part was how all the songs pointed to Christ and not feelings. With songs like “Joy of the Lord”, “We Lift You Up” and “Praise Your Name”, from start to finish the album centers on authentically praising the One who gives meaning to the “Praise & Worship” category of music.

This is not typically the style of music I listen to, but I can honestly say, I enjoyed this album.

One reader of Our extra-Ordinary Life will get to enjoy their own copy of “Revolution Worship…Live At Joy Church International”. There are two ways to enter the giveaway:

1) Follow my blog (however you choose)and leave me a comment about it (Mandatory Entry).
2) “Like” Revolution on FB and leave me a comment about it (2nd Entry)

If your profile page does not show your email address, please include your email address in your comment. I will use random.org to select a winner. (Contest will remain open through November 15.)

Check out“Revolution Worship…Live at Joy Church International"at these great spots:
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MyWorldRevolution
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/MWRevolution
iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/revolution-worship-live/id467741849
Video: http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=2371896618238

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services
mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I
only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.
I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255:
"Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”.

On the Home Front - October 29

2011-10-29T21:07:00.001-07:00

A peek through my window… S – 66 , M –70 , T – 76 , W – 70. There was still frost on the ground this morning when I walked J. in the park. I’m glad I got outta there quickly because a disc golf tournament was going to start and I didn’t want to have do any more ducking (or waiting).

What’s going on this week… wrestling parent’s meeting and will be traveling about 2 ½ hours away for a soccer game.

What “the boys” are doing… L has played two of three games of a soccer tournament. May have more games tomorrow if they win again. M. has been having “post concussive” symptoms. I feel terrible that I didn’t realize it sooner! Today though he had no headaches!

On my mind… our local McDonald’s has been closed for several months – not remodeling- they completely tore it down and rebuilt. It reopened today and starting at midnight, Big Macs are going to be a dollar. I don’t like Big Macs, but I’m going with Hubby and the boys just to make it a family outing. I’m thinking I should be taking a nap instead of writing this!

On my bedside table… I have a new book (fiction this time) on my Kindle (er, Hubby’s Kindle). I’m not giving away the title yet – I’ll be reviewing it soon.

I am richly blessed… I found exactly the new pairs of pants I needed today!

I’m praying for… an online friend’s daughter, Grandy, and my Bible study leader’s sister

Our home… smells like bacon. Well, now it smells more like pumpkins spice since I lit a candle.

Menu planning… I still need to do this. I have thought ahead to Taco Tuesday (or Thursday) and Soup & Sandwich Sunday.

A photo or two…
Everyday life...dishes are about as everyday as you get! Am still using the Idaho Potato Commission recipe for potato salad and it turned out great! I made this for when our small group served dinner at a senior housing community. That was a fun evening!

Multitutudes on Monday - October 24

2011-10-24T09:11:00.001-07:00

768 He surrounds me and He lifts me up
769 My uncle
770 For 8 whole months of school, there is a nice break each month
771 Someone to talk to when I’m frustrated with being late again
772 FCA & Youth Alive
773 People wanting to help
774 It getting dark earlier so M. gets home earlier
775 We have food and a home
776 The Lord gives strength to his people. The Lord blesses his people with peace.
777 The Psalms are amazing
778 God will provide
779 Still love extra time in the morning with Hubby!
780 Sealants and a dentist who will bill you
781 Corn bags
782 Computers
783 Amazon and 2 day shipping when I’m running late
784 Having so much wrist and arm pain helps me empathize with others in pain and appreciate pain free times more
785 Fall Break
786 A recycling facility and help sorting it when we get there
787 Spirited cheers
788 Family resemblances
789 Laughter
790 Wow, look at all those stars!
791 Smelling new shoes – M’s crazy like for shoes – really having shoes is a blessing.
792 Dark clouds and thunderstorms
793 Safety in the storm
794 An email saying the football player who left in an ambulance will be ok
795 A coach whose first words after a tough loss were “Let’s pray for Preston.”
796 Free chick-fil-a
797 Fun tasting chili with M.
798 Since L. was one, we have lived near a park (four houses)
799 A front porch and a back porch

On the Home Front - October 22

2011-10-22T08:06:00.000-07:00

A peek through my window… S – 77, S – 79, M – 84, T – 82 This really is seeming warm for this time of the year. It is so nice though to feel the warm sun on my back when I walk! After these nice temps, the forecast is for mid to low 60s. Outside my window now is Aunt’s car. She’s here using our highspeed Internet!

What’s going on this week… stuff for the boys (written in next starter). We have one more day off for Fall Break. Aunt and I are going to do some more things at Dad’s but I’m not sure how productive it is really going to turn out to be. Hopefully, I will be subbing most of the end of the month (but I’d really like to be off one day at the end of the week to go out to lunch with a friend!)

What “the boys” are doing… M will be watching the World Series this week. L. has a night game Tuesday and a tournament starting Friday. M. will start wrestling Thursday (we got his shoes tonight!)

On my mind… M and I are getting ready to walk over to the Chili festival. I have been looking forward to this all week! (it’s a little on the warm side for chili, but at least it’s not raining like last year). I’m also thinking of the holidays. We’ll have a guest for Thanksgiving. For Christmas plans, we’ll be working on Toys for Tots inventory and then the big event. I’ve also been checking out some budget ideas for Christmas.

On my bedside table… the original intent of this starter was reading material, yet I am often reading elsewhere… I read some from the book our small group is reading, Primal. We’re to the section about loving God with all our mind. I reviewed a book, but had to read it on the computer because we could never get it on the Kindle! My most favorite of all reading is the Bible study in the Psalms I am doing. I’ve read in the Psalms and loved them many times over, but this is amazing!

I am richly blessed… I could write forever here. This week I was more faithful in writing in my 1000 gifts journal and it made such a difference in my outlook. I am so blessed that the earthly leader of our home is a Godly man who draws us to God’s Word and ways.

I’m praying for… Hubby and L as they are on a Scout campout with a quick trip to an away soccer game and then back to the campout.

Our home… Hubby moved our couch back to its more usual position. Home group won’t be here for a few weeks because of special events. It’s in a slightly different spot so everyone can see the TV (funny we even have one downstairs now – it’s used solely for home group video and sports). I was noticing though, it puts one person on the end right in front of the fireplace. How cozy! I hope it’s me!

Menu planning… Roast, tacos, chicken legs (but not for me of course – I don’t eat meat with bones. I’ve tried to from time to time and it just never works.)

A photo or two… M's spontaneous real laugh

Extraordinary by John Bevere

2011-10-21T18:08:00.001-07:00

I chose this book primarily because of its name and the name relation to my blog. My husband had read a book by the same author and found it helpful. So, going into the book I was very hopeful. However, I received this book as an eBook and could never get it loaded on my Kindle (although I had been able to do it in the past). I decided not to let that spoil things and found the time to sit down at my home computer and read away. I am exhausted!

While Extraordinary had many wonderful points and wisdom for living the Christian life, that was in my opinion its downfall – “many”. There were too many topics covered for just one book. The whole first half covered some basics of Christianity and by Chapter 9 (which I felt was on of the best chapters), Bevere delves into holiness.

In Chapter 9, Bevere states “We are straying far from God’s heart because we are so influenced by our society. In so many ways, the church has become a subculture rather than what we are called to be – a counterculture.” I did appreciate this statement because it put into words what I had been thinking and feeling for quite a while. However, the book was lacking something. I just quite haven’t figured out what the something is. I would not recommend it to others.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

Our Dog for Two Days

2011-10-19T09:36:00.000-07:00

If you don't know these things about our family here goes....

1) We are a dog family 2) I wanted a dachshund and Hubby said we needed a big dog (well not exactly in those words)and 3) L wants a Yorkie Terrier that is at the pet store where he volunteers (poor thing has lived there a year and a half!)

A few weeks ago when I dropped L. off at Hubby's work so he could take him to practice, I happened to go out with Hubby to the van to get something. When we turned to go back inside there was a stray dog. Ugggh. No tags. Uggh. It was very friendly and skinny. Uggh. We took it inside and gave it water and Hubby left me to decide what to do. Uggh. I couldn't let the dog wander the city and get squished. Uggh.

I put it in the car and headed home. I stopped off at the above mentioned pet store to give them my sad story. They told me what a beautiful dog it was and loaned me a crate. I carried the dog in the house with J. jumping and nipping on my way to lock the dog in our bathroom. I let J. outside so new dog could roam around (mind you J. was barking the whole time outside!) Hubby was right (see number 2). This dog scampered across my living room! I'm not much on dog scampering - that's something squirrels do!

When our neighbors brought M. home from practice I begged them to take the dog for a few nights because of J. After checking with his wife, he called and said his daughter would take care of the dog. Yay! The next day we checked for owners, posted fliers, checked with the dog for a microchip. No avail.

The next day I took new dog back to Hubby's work. Someone had called and said if no one claimed the dog he would take it. Ok, without going into details or describing my fears - this wasn't someone I would "pick" if applications were being filled out. I prayed all day if God didn't want this to happen He'd bring the owner (or even someone else!) No answer and we handed new dog over. (If it's any consolation the guy did have other small dogs and children). Also my stray dog days are done.

A big thank you to the pet store, neighbors and Hubby! So..no new dog for us and the yorkie is still at the pet store.

Capital City Soccer Tournament

2011-10-17T12:17:00.000-07:00

Warning: Contains lots of pictures!

Aunt, L and I spent a great deal of time here during the first weekend of October...

Hubby and I have always enjoyed going to the boys' games and have enjoyed getting to know their teammates and other parents. I must say though, I am particularly enjoying this set of kids and it's been fun getting to know the parents too. Maybe it's because we've spent so much time together - practices, on the sidelines watching games, concession stand, tournaments... This picture is after the first game of the weekend.

We had about seven hours to kill before the next game so the three of us hit Downtown Little Rock. Specifically, I wanted to see the ducks at The Peabody.

On the way there, L wanted an explanation of what we were going to see so I told him the ducks sing and dance. Of course after they marched down the red carpet and into the fountain he said, "Is that it?". We managed to get him to pose for some pictures with us. I also let him know that I was going to do a blogpost, so he shouldn't be surprised to see himself so much here.

After The Peabody, we window shopped and checked out the Truck Vendor Fair. M. loves shoes, do you think he'd like these?

There was an awesome park along the banks of The Arkansas River.

This was my absolute favorite part of the afternoon.

We found wonderful chex mix and got some fresh green peppers and blueberry jam. We would have gotten much more if it weren't so far from home. I really need to check these out closer to home, I'm just afraid they won't compare!
It would have been wonderful to stay much longer...President Clinton was speaking at 4 (20 yr anniversary of his announcing running for president). Not that I'm a huge Clinton fan, but seeing Chicago would have been fun. Of course L. had to ask, "What's Chicago?" However, we went to the hotel for L. to rest and went back for the next game - another win and then out for pizza with the team (Aunt's camera was in the car).

In the next three pictures, I'm positive the second and third are of L. scoring. In one of the tournament games he got a hat trick!

The whole team played so hard and gave it their all!

Proud champions in their division!

We didn't get home until 11 Sunday night, but it was so worth it! L. wore his tournament shirt to school Friday AND today. Last night, I pointed out that he already wore the shirt on Friday and he responded, "But, it's clean Mom!" Of course, wear it then. No worries.

Multitutudes on Monday - October 17

2011-10-17T09:04:00.000-07:00

756 Cooking show with a friend
757 These silly free pens from the bank that remind me of Mom
758 Transportation to and from school
759 A hug to say its all ok
760 Pictures of grandmother riding in her town’s parade
761 Walking three days in a row
762 A hardworking and encouraging Hubby
763 Warm sun and a cool breeze at the same time
764 Practicing
765 Answers to prayer
766 Lingering on a Saturday morning
767 A Bible study book of Mom’s – His grace

On the Homefront - Oct. 16

2011-10-16T20:16:00.001-07:00

A peek through my window… M – 81, T –66, W – 59, T – 63, F – 71. The grass still needs mowed -this really is kinda late to have to mow grass here. We still have a couple of houses on our street for sale. Every time I walk past I pray for them. One of the families I know and they are commuting. They did it for their daughter to graduate here, but she did so it's time to move on.

What’s going on this week… Wed. part of our carpet pad is getting replaced. Hubby decided that since I noticed some inconsistencies we should have it looked at (I’m not very observant). Glad to have that lifetime warranty. I’m looking forward to Fall Break – getting some things done, time with friends and just staying home all day one day.

What “the boys” are doing… almost asleep this very moment. Earlier I could hear Hubby tucking them in. They were quite “squirrely” and I saw it as a good opportunity for me to duck outta the bedtime routine.

M. tried his best to finish up a science crossword – I tried to help with a couple. I just hate it when we can’t find the answer in the book or Internet! M. enjoyed watching the last Rangers game and is excited they are in the World Series. He wildly swung his Rangers towel during the game and all.

L. scored a goal and had an assist in his game today. He is getting ready for a Scout campout. I am so thankful that Hubby has done all the campouts for the past two years. The last one in Texas with no flushing toilets was where my Scout camping days came to a screeching halt.

On my mind… I still don’t have a sub job for tomorrow and I’m really torn between knowing I really should be working since there’s a “break” this month and really hoping to have the day off. I’d like to read and review my next book, take some extended time in “Stepping Up” in prep for Wed. night and start filing in the office. I know our break will just fly by.

On my bedside table… Exactly what was there last week – the only movement has been moving my Bible and replacing it after reading.

I am richly blessed… I am so blessed to have all my needs provided and to have so many conveniences.

I’m blessed to hear L. practice Psalm 97 for the Dinner Theatre. It blesses me to hear the words over and over and to know he is learning God’s Word.

I’m praying for… Friend from small group – grandfather’s cancer is back and someone at church who was just diagnosed this week. My toenails are still painted teal – I remember to pray for a friend’s sister who is going through round 2 of chemo for ovarian cancer.

Our home… I’m enjoying the Lysol automatic soap dispenser that I won on a blog. I’m hoarding it in our bathroom – I don’t think the boys have touched it once or even know it’s there! Hubby planted the rose bush he received at the marathon. We plan to give it a little extra attention as we may get our first freeze this week.

Menu planning… Chinese Chicken morsels are prepped and waiting for me to broil tomorrow evening to put on top of rice. I’ll be home Wed. and can put a little extra time into making zucchini pizza (zucchini for the “dough”)

A photo or two…

Multitudes on Mondays

2011-10-10T13:42:00.000-07:00

743 Someone to share the load
744 No cavities
745 Sitting in Dad’s swing
746 He is sovereign
747 Practicing with L
748 Iron sharpens iron
749 When I was at CFA someone bought lunch for another person in military uniform
750 I saw someone who reminded me of my Dad today. He was the loud man in wranglers who was proud of his country and of his grandchildren
751 All the water droplets on the plants in the flower bed
752 The beautiful weather we are having makes it look and feel more like spring
753 Contrasts (spring/fall, green & growth/leaves falling, grey clouds/blue skies)
754 Beautiful shade of green
755 Seeing something I had not seen before

On the Home Front - October 9

2011-10-09T19:36:00.000-07:00

A peek through my window… M – 73 , T – 81 , W – 78, T – 77, F – 77. Outside now, besides dark is rain! So happy that it’s finally here. The front was reeking havoc with my sinuses and now maybe the rain will control the ragweed.

What’s going on this week… subbing four days, Taste of Home cooking show, working on Dad’s estate

What “the boys” are doing… football pictures, L will be running lots at practices because of the team loss today

On my mind… the ups and downs of hosting/leading a group and some upcoming family plans/decisions

On my bedside table… One Thousand Gifts – I reread it from time to time. “Country” magazine and a booklet about the second temple in Jerusalem. Honestly, my bedside table needs to be cleaned.

I am richly blessed… to have Hubby home and for him to be in the living room watching football with the boys – also in the midst of all he had to do to get ready to leave yesterday, he replaced my windshield wipers.

I’m praying for… Pastor Nadarkhani in Iran.

Our home… although laundry is somewhat done – we have a serious need for clothes folding and putting away. Clean clothes waiting to be folded are on the dining room table and the ones that are folded are either in baskets or on our dresser waiting to be put in the closet. To actually do it would just be too easy.

Menu planning… I have it written down – and it’s a really good thing I do because the only thing I can recall is tator tot casserole for tomorrow night!

A photo or two… I'm so proud of Hubby for finishing his first marathon (and with a great time!) He's the one in white holding the rose bush (Tyler Rose Marathon).

Salsa

2011-10-06T10:09:00.000-07:00

It seems like so long ago that my friend since first grade, kg [check out her blog, she's a wonderful artist and right now has a post about pumpkin pancakes] and I met on a Wednesday to make salsa, but it was just a little over two weeks ago [now over a month ago]. I was looking so forward to this day because before the salsa I got to go to a Moms in Touch meeting for the first time.

The day did not disappoint. I love MIT! Afterwards, Kg and I laughed, chatted and worked together to create two different kinds of salsa.

The first had the usual (tomatoes, jalapeno and garlic) plus cilantro, onion and lime juice.

The second we cooked and it was pretty much just the usual.

Kg ended up mixing hers. We ate all ours pretty quickly. M wasn’t willing to try it and after L tried both he said “Disgusting”.

I didn’t think that at all, in fact, I thought it was pretty yummy. I’d do it again. Of course, the best part was making salsa with a friend.

I’m not posting a recipe because there are tons on the Internet. But, what about you, do you have a fav salsa recipe? What about making stuff from scratch? What kinds of food are cost effective to make at home? Salsa was definitely not cost effective. The next “from scratch” I’m considering is “granola bars”.

[I obviously wrote this a while back. In all my computer woes, it didn’t get posted and now the pictures are missing from the files! I decided to post anyway – I want to record the memory. Perhaps, I’ll find those pics and post them later.]

As Silver Refined

2011-10-05T11:23:00.000-07:00

As Silver Refined, by Kay Arthur, is a must read for anyone who has ever been disappointed. That would be everyone, right? Arthur encourages us boldly and Biblically to turn disappointment into “His appointment” (notice the change of the “d” to “h” AND the space).

This book is not a light read and at times I felt bogged down in repetition. At one time I even said that this book was not for a new believer or one that didn’t intellectually reason well. However, that is silly for me to limit God! He can use this book to help anyone. It is not self-help, but every chapter draws the disappointed to Scripture and to the One who heals instead of leaving them spiraling into despair.

I read As Silver Refined with highlighter in hand and prayerfully. Now, I will return to the nuggets and digest the words more deeply as I use the companion Bible study that is included. There were three chapters on meekness and I believe it’s the best writing that I’ve ever read on the subject.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

One Thousand Gifts - October 3

2011-10-03T07:48:00.000-07:00

Once again, blogging difficulites because of this silly computer switch! I give thanks anways! Check out A Holy Experience for more lists of blessings or just because it's beautiful reading that points to our Giver.

708 Winning soccer games
709 Trying Hard
710 Sweatshirts and jean jackets
711 Answers to prayer
712 A peaceful home
713 Working computer (amen!)
714 Getting to go to chapel while subbing
715 A dog to bless us for a few hours
716 FB from a friend who trusts me to pray
717 Apple butter
718 Heritage
719 Friends who share
720 Accomplishment
721 Change in behavior
722 Loaning of a kennel
723 Loaning of a home
724 A few moments
725 Candy ready for a homecoming parade
726 I can look up to the Lord
727 Music on my walk coming from I don’t know where
728 Creation singing His praise
729 The ducks, squirrels and other living things living their purpose
730 The clang of railroad cars
731 The dog is a blessing to the neighbors
732 Hint of autumn color
733 That color reflected in the creek
734 Every good morning, nod and hello
735 Smell of lumber from house being built
736 A weekend in Arkansas
737 Wins
738 A different way
739 Good building material
740 Walking around a farmer’s market with Aunt and L
741 Going to a different church when traveling and still feeling at home in the body of Christ
742 Ducks marching to fountain and getting in

Multitudes on Monday - September 20

2011-09-20T07:44:00.001-07:00

It's Tuesday again...I'm really not meaning to make this a habit. I'm still having computer woes and am doing what I can when I can. However, my blessings overflow!...
683 Someone to wait with me at 4am when I don’t feel well
684 Unexpected lunch out
685 Moms in Touch
686 Leadership of Hubby
687 It feels like fall outside!
688 Steady rain
689 God knows my heart.
690 Numbers aren’t the most important thing
691 Lunch at Panda Express with L.
692 Road hazard warranty and tires that are okay
693 Good test scores
694 A change in schedule
695 Friendly faces
696 Exposed brick work
697 A coffee shop in my hometown
698 Son walking J with me
699 Being present
700 One son in red plaid and the other in blue plaid on a Friday night to watch
a movie
701 Conversation and patience with conversation
702 Hubby texting me to ask me out
703 Voyage of the Dawn Treader
704 Unexpected visit with a family from church
705 Seeing a different perspective
706 Carpooling
707 Morning walks

On the Home Front - September 17

2011-09-17T12:09:00.001-07:00

A peek through my window… S-84, M-85, T-86, W-81. It’s finally mostly cloudy instead of so dark. I was beginning to wonder if football games would go on today or not, but for now there is no lightning. Early this morning there was a rabbit in our front flower bed that Hubby called me to see. It was fun to watch it while it couldn’t see us or be frightened away.

What’s going on this week…Downtown missions (for M. and Aunt), museum visit, meeting friends after school, faculty meeting for Hubby and concession stand all day for me next Saturday. I’m thankful for the opportunity to earn money towards L’s soccer stuff.

What “the boys” are doing… M. is/has been very noisy lately. L. is getting ready for allergy testing. He got a new maintenance med. and right now is only taking it and one other. No zyrtec til after testing – praying that goes okay.

On my mind… being present in the moment & “watching” moving to prayer

On my bedside table… I got my new book from Multnomah/Blogging for Books early this week – As Silver Refined by Kay Arthur. I love her writing! It’s definitely not quick reading, but has to marinate.

I am richly blessed… my tire light came on when we were getting ready to leave the city yesterday. I was able to get in and have it checked quicker than originally told and there was nothing wrong with the tires – just needed air. I’m thankful there are no problems as Hubby is taking my car for an out of town soccer tournament.

I’m praying for… babies. Friend had her’s this week; also for a set of preemie twins and for the local crisis pregnancy center.

Our home… is hosting small group this month on Sunday nights.

Menu planning… roast in the crockpot this week. Lots of good fruits and veggies I got at Aldi on Thursday.

A photo or two…

Forgive my logo for being so HUGE - I just really didn't want to change it. The ice cream is from Labor Day and the one of Hubby was mentioned last week in "On the Home Front" is when he was cleaning up the front of the house.

Giveaway and Blog to Check Out

2011-09-17T10:30:00.000-07:00

One of my blog friends, Heather, is hosting a giveaway at Marine Corp Nomads. It is for the Beverly Lewis Shunning dvd. I've followed Heather for a while now. I like her blog for several reasons - homeschool and military insight; her photography; gluten free info (we're not, but I have friends who are and I like to be aware); and most of all, currently her family is stationed someplace we used to live so I love hearing and seeing about Arizona.

One of the things I've been doing in blogging lately is entering giveaways and looking at money saving blogs. I love free things!! We finished up some free cereal bars earlier this week and our video for family movie night last night was free!

Multitudes on Monday

2011-09-13T13:34:00.000-07:00

Multitudes on Monday (It's Tuesday and I couldn't get the graphic to load either!)

669 Tipping of a hat with a hello
670 Finding a fleece for a morning walk!
671 Opportunities
672 A flag left in my front yard
673 Able to take a forgotten paper
674 Sleeping
675 Protection and provision
676 9 turtles sunning on the bank of the pond
677 No cobwebs
678 Airplanes flying down the stairs
679 Seeing my son at school
680 Salsa
681 Friends from high school
682 Extended time in Psalms

A New Year

2011-09-10T09:08:00.001-07:00

Well it's not a new calendar year, but it's a new school year. Last year I had the opportunity to teach second grade at a local elementary school. It was a gift. This year the school's numbers were down and other positions didn't work out, so I am not teaching full time.

I have chosen to see this as a gift also. God has already revealed so much to me! I am subbing (and would like to be subbing more) and I made these cards...

Of course the real cards have my name, phone and email on them!! The printing looks much better on cardstock than a blog post too.

That was just a little update on me and an opportunity to show off something I created.

A Three Day Weekend

2011-09-05T19:57:00.001-07:00

Four soccer games later.....

I attended three of the four games. One was dreadfully hot with most parents crowded under one shade tree behind a fence (but we could still see the game!) where it was still 110 degrees! The game the next morning was after the cool front came through and had me begging to borrow a blanket.

On Saturday night, we went shoe shopping and had dinner at Qdoba. Aunt and I were so excited to find this:

This was absolutely one of the coolest things I had seen in a long time! The sign on the front door advertised 100 drink choices and I believe it - you could have Sprite with one of 9 different flavors. Sprite!? Of course this was my choice...

Hubby ended up waiting in the truck while we took photos. He only got water so maybe he wasn't too excited to see the new machine. Or maybe he was embarrassed that we were taking pictures of it?

Between church and games yesterday, we mowed at Dad's. Boy did it need it - had been neglected way too long. That's a whole nother story. We need the "old house fairy" to come in and zap everything the way it's supposed to be. Exciting thing on this day is that M. got his first riding lawnmower lesson. I'll spare him the details.

Today we cleaned out the attic and I mean cleaned out the attic. We sorted and restacked and went through boxes we should have, but didn't on one of our moves. It was great to condense and Hubby and the boys made a trip to the dumpster that was close by for neighborhood cleanup and Goodwill. We had lots of great finds...

#1 Our china (confession I haven't used it - yet!) When we got married 16 years ago we registered for a beautiful ivory pattern that had silver and gold both on it. I still love it. However, it was probably expensive and not terribly practical. We have seven sets - I think I didn't use it because we didn't have eight. Pure silliness! Any time we have a special dinner (or even if it's just because I want to) and have seven or less people eating, I'm going to use it! Makes more sense than leaving it in a box in the attic! However, I did leave the dainty cups and their saucers packed away. I promise I will never use those - I don't drink coffee and if I drink hot tea it's at Starbucks. Now, if we could have registered for big plastic cups from BBQ restaurants....... (I digress).

#2 Our ice cream maker. This was a gift to Hubby from me several years back.. He's lucky enough to get gifts like this since his birthday is the Fourth of July. On their trip out to Goodwill the guys got all the ingredients for Old Fashioned Vanilla Ice Cream. After reading the instructions and realizing the steps and time we opted for Easy Vanilla Ice Cream. After getting about $10 worth of ingredients into the canister and setting everything together right we plugged it in and nothing. Didn't work - Hubby took it apart and found gears were broken. Since we couldn't let all those ingredients go to waste I headed to Walmart where I found they sold out 4th of July. JC Penney and Ross also did not have them - I texted friends and Hubby put our dilemma on FB and checked with neighbors. While I was in the Big Lots parking lot, I got a text back from a friend who had one and yes I could borrow it!

We enjoyed bowls on the back porch after dinner and mowing for Aunt. It was nice to have a long weekend and a change of pace. Now, back to the new normal.

(Sidenote: Hubby hung my new picture for the boys' bathroom. That's not what I got it for originally, but it matches and I love it. It reminds me of all the fun travels we've had together as a family.)

Multitudes - Sept. 5

2011-09-05T17:02:00.001-07:00

635 Abilities
636 Simple things
637 A great school
638 Black pants I don’t have to buy
639 Being welcomed
640 Haircut in my hometown
641 Sandwiches for dinner
642 God is showing me what to do
643 Wood
644 Watering plants in the morning – toads jumping
645 Someone who understands
646 An encouraging call
647 Hard eucharisteo
648 The closet
649 Limes
650 Funny pronunciations
651 Fabulous new pop dispenser
652 Decongestant
653 Doing something that needs done even when you don’t want to
654 Kindle
655 Psalm 61
656 Tomatoes
657 Candles burning
658 M. learning to use the riding mower
659 Growing pains – me too
660 Whatever wonderful scent that is in my kitchen
661 Windows open!
662 A friend who texts during the hunt
663 A friend who rescues with her ice cream maker
664 Clean attic
665 All the fun memories we got to see while cleaning
666 Time to just be
667 Finding a special card
668 He carries me.

On the Home Front - September 3

2011-09-03T18:54:00.001-07:00

A peek through my window… S- 100, S – 85, M – 79, T – 82, W – 83 Amazing, isn’t it? Right outside my office window is my lonely rocking chair. I sit there each morning as the boys catch the school bus, but maybe with the forecasted nice weather I’ll use it and the swing on the back porch more!

What’s going on this week… Labor Day, checking out a Moms in Touch group, free Chick-fil-a, training to work in the concession stand @ soccer

What “the boys” are doing… tournament for L this weekend, but no football game for M. M. came home with books from the book fair yesterday. He made a 100 on his spelling test! I’m so happy because the preparation was painful. M. found new shoes after only an hour and trying on about 15 prs. (this was quicker than his brother).

On my mind… cleaning my glasses. They’re filthy! I know that’s some deep thinking, but that’s really what’s on my mind. That and crawling into bed early to read.

On my bedside table… no more dust! I cleaned it today. In addition to the books mentioned before there is also a silver “Pray for China” bracelet and my garita pin from Puerto Rico.

I am richly blessed… even though I complain about our hectic sports schedule, we have life so easy! My husband is employed, we have plenty to eat, we’re healthy and our children have great abilities and opportunities.

I’m praying for… a blogging friend and for God’s direction in ordering my days. I found this verse tonight too – It’s after Psalm 61:1 that starts out “Hear my cry, O God, listen to my prayer”. Psalm 62:2b “Lead me to the rock that is higher than I”. I thought it had beautiful imagery.

Our home… all the rugs got washed yesterday. Hubby can probably get used to me being around more often.

Menu planning… banana pudding for dessert! Dinner last night was zucchini pizza casserole. Sun – Italian Bow Ties, Labor Day – Burgers, Homemade Fries, Other days: French toast and bacon; BBQ boneless ribs; and Broccoli Chicken.

A photo or two…

This is M. with his solid gold plastic trophy he won in "Sports Trivia". It wasn't a kid competition either - he beat all the grown men there too! I was going to post a picture from the fantasy league draft today, but it had too much identifying info. in it. M. had all of his picks (each position 1-7 choice) on sticky notes in front of him. That was draft one - I'm in his second league and I actually took part in the live draft for it! It was fun - now let's see what kind of season I'll have...

The Chocolate Diaries

2011-09-01T12:51:00.000-07:00

The Chocolate Diaries, Secrets to a Sweeter Journey on the Rocky Road of Life by Karen Linamen delivers everything you would expect from the title. It is very personally written and offers personal stories and insight (diaries) to dealing with life’s struggles in order to have a “sweet” life instead of being bitter. The author also interviewed several others who have endured intense struggles and included their secrets. She did an excellent job of weaving the theme throughout the entire book – chapter titles, readers’ answers to “What’s your secret to a sweeter journey on the rocky road of life?”, food for thought and chocolate recipes.

My favorite chapter was 8 “For a New Taste in Life, Look for a New Recipe” where Linamen talks about regrouping and perhaps reinventing a portion of your life. This chapter as well as all the others is very practical and anyone reading the book can take many nuggets of wisdom away to use in difficult spots in life. However, overall I was disappointed with the book. From a Christian standpoint, there were many areas that were weak and sometimes inappropriate. Honestly, I got very tired of hearing of the author’s love life woes. Share that with your best friends, not the whole world in print.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing for this review.

God is a Preparing God

2011-08-29T14:06:00.000-07:00

Do you ever get a “no” when you want a “yes”? Do you ever not understand? That has happened to me recently, but I’m happy to say that God is a preparing God. I knew that before of course. Hubby and I have said that for years. Whenever something difficult is going to happen (unbeknownst to us of course) God prepares us through His Word, impression, words of others, whatever He chooses. The preparation helps give clarity, comfort, and guidance. He does the same for good things too!

These are the things that have been everywhere I look:
On Bethany Hamilton’s facebook page – she posted the other day something about when a wave knocks you down, are you going to let God bring you back to the surface?

The devotional this morning in This Day with the Master by Dennis Kinlaw: “God will never let you get into a situation in which he is not in perfect control. When you find yourself in circumstances that seem to be full of chaos and confusion, look to Christ. If you belong to him, you will find him there in perfect control of your situation.”

From Chocolate Diaries, the book I am in process of reviewing for Blogging for Books (see sidebar). “But I had caught a glimpse of a potent truth. Sometimes you lose things and you grieve. You think the things you lost are gone forever, and in some cases they really are. But sometimes things that are lost can be found again.”

Over the weekend Hubby was offered two more classes (financial provision).

This was on Ann Voskamp’s blog:” He had told her what he lived — the real weather forecast for the weekend: When Christ is seen in the clouds, there is contentment — but when Christ is missed in the sun, there are storms even in the clearest skies. So she stood there with him at the kitchen sink, rinsing off the potato pot, waiting for what they both knew was coming– a steady rain of somehow grace…”

And finally, (but I’m sure there were many more) this morning on my fb homepage from incourage was Isaiah 43:19 “For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun."

The Word God gave me at the beginning of 2011 was “Grace”. Is this what it was for? What is the new thing? I’m certainly open and expectant for it. Leaning in to Him…

Multitudes - August 29

2011-08-29T07:07:00.000-07:00

I have permission to share from one of my son’s thankful journal:
9 Ripstik
b. rolling, riding, and getting exercise with it
10 Grass (although allergic) smooth texture to lay in
18 Popsicles
20 My devotion book on Abraham
26 A swimming pool
30 Seeing friends in Texas
31. Watching cousin play hockey
36 Humor and laughter
38 Eating Taco Bueno and Charlie’s Chicken with Dad
40 Heaven is for real
44 Air conditioner
47 The Bible
51 Rain
59 Running with Dad
64 Mom giving me a coupon for my hair highlights
66 A cruise we could go on together as a family

I’m so thankful he let me share and I’m so thankful he’s keeping this journal. We shared our 1000 gifts together last night and chatted about them. My son is so funny too. When I asked him what number he was on, he told me 1000 something. I’m sure it was to get my response of “What? How’d you get that high so quickly?!”

Mine continue here:
604 Lawn mowed. Dog walked.
605 Day at home
606 Dinner in the crockpot
607 High heels that I don’t have to wear very often
608 An interview
609 Kind words and thoughts
610 Familiar faces
611 Hubby’s help
612 Hubby’s prayers
613 Solutions
614 Dinner with family
615 Prayer service
616 Adult youth leaders/role models
617 Things work out
618 A free manicure
619 Phone calls
620 Beautiful morning
621 Beautiful dog
622 Seeing Pastor P. and wife in the park
623 Weekends
624 Space to play
625 Walking with a new friend
626 Kindnesses
627 My small group
628 Time at small group
629 Finally getting my book downloaded
630 Someone to share thankful journals with
631 Permission to share
632 Seeing the Mom of a friend from youth
633 Grass being mowed
634 Llamas in the field by the park

On the Home Front - August 27

2011-08-27T07:12:00.000-07:00

A peek through my window… S – 95 S – 91 M – 89 T – 92 W – 93 The rest of the forecast through the first week of September looks the same way. That’s a ways out so I’m not holding my breath! It would be a welcome relief though. (However another site says 99, 99, 96, 95, 100 which is a far cry from the other!)

What’s going on this week… I’m wearing pink on Tuesday in honor of a local hero who died from cystic fibrosis a few years ago. This week is open house for 7th grade and the end of the week will be a Labor Day soccer tournament.

What “the boys” are doing…L. scored a goal at the scrimmage last night! Today he’ll go to his volunteer job (one hour) at the pet store to walk/play with dogs and maybe do some fish feeding or cleaning. I’m so proud of him for doing such a great job of this! This morning it was so cool out that M. and I sat in the porch swing studying for his spelling test. M. is a great student and doing a good job of keeping up with classes, band and football too.

On my mind… salsa. I talked to a friend today and we are going to get together after Labor Day to make it.

On my bedside table… Wild Things, The Art of Nurturing Boys. Still. There’s other books there too: Grace for the Moment devotional by Lucado and Power Prayers for Women. There’s also my alarm clock, photo of Hubby, hair clip and pictures from Colorado.

I am richly blessed… Hubby has been so wonderful to me. He’s so understanding and goes out of his way to talk with and encourage me.

I’m praying for… for an old friend from high school I know is hurting. Wed. night I went to the youth prayer service and will be mindful to keep praying for the youth leadership and kids at our church..

Our home… Have quite a few things that need to find their way to the attic. The problem is there is no more room until we do some cleaning and rearranging. Can’t do that until the temps are much cooler.

Menu planning… After I buy celery and onions I’ll make chicken salad to eat for lunches or when we don’t quite make dinner. Sports schedules have made it extremely difficult to catch bites to eat. I do have meatloaf muffins in the freezer and plans for chicken on the grill and Italian bow tie pasta. L. also has sausage, egg & cheese tacos in the freezer for breakfasts.

A photo or two… <

Zoo Visit

2011-08-25T12:52:00.000-07:00

What kind of mama takes her kids to the zoo and doesn’t take a camera? A scattered one of course – I couldn’t find the camera! Later Hubby let me know where it was - in the carry-on I hadn’t unpacked from uh, almost two weeks ago.

Last Tuesday, a mere two days before school starting I asked the boys what they’d like to do – we were leaning towards visiting an animal sanctuary until finding out it was open only on weekends. I said “Let’s go to the zoo!” (I knew they both had coupons for free admission which didn’t hurt the case any). M. didn’t want to go, but once I said I’d go and just take L., he changed his mind. This was our end of the summer after all.

On the way there, I marveled at how spontaneous this was for me to do. They didn’t know what spontaneous meant! That’s probably my fault since it only happens with me once in a blue moon.

We leisurely looked around the zoo seeing what we wanted for as long as we wanted or didn’t. We saw the zoo this time in a much different way than any times before. Highlights to me were all the time we spent watching and laughing at different kinds of primates and the elephant presentation. L. even got sprayed by one of the elephants! Perfect for such a hot day (also thankful for all those “cooling stations”).

We all had such a good time and I so enjoyed being with my boys. I know a time is coming soon that spending an afternoon walking around a zoo with Mom might not be too fun! This “youth” thing is happening…just last night I went to the youth group’s beginning of the year prayer service with M. Mind you, I kept my distance. Near the end M. said “Mom, you’re the only parent here!” He insisted all the other parents were actually volunteers. I told him that no one would ever know who I was or that I stayed if he’d stop coming and making comments like that! Anyway, it was a wonderful service. I’m glad I stayed. I’m glad we went to the zoo. I know this is “normal” and we will make it through the teen years!