The LAST Weekly Bible Reading Update

I finished reading the OneYear Bible NLT! I have been thinking that recording my Bible reading for anybody to read might have been a bit much. Maybe it was boring to some, or maybe it seemed like I was showing off. Thank you for hanging in there with me - I needed to be able to record it because typing it up helped me stay accountable. Did I always understand what I read? No! Do I remember everything that I read? No Way! Was I always focused when I read? Of course not. I can say that making it a discipline to read the scripture changed my life and I hope that I remember that this next year and for years to come.

The December 30th passage, Malachi 2:15-16

15 Didn’t the Lord make you one with your wife? In body and spirit you are his.^[a] And what does he want? Godly children from your union. So guard your heart; remain loyal to the wife of your youth. 16 “For I hate divorce!” says the Lord, the God of Israel. “To divorce your wife is to overwhelm her with cruelty,^[b]” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. “So guard your heart; do not be unfaithful to your wife.”

The passage in Proverbs, speaking of the virtuous woman, from the December 31st says:

25 She is clothed with strength and dignity,
and she laughs without fear of the future.
26 When she speaks, her words are wise,
and she gives instructions with kindness.
27 She carefully watches everything in her household
and suffers nothing from laziness.

28 Her children stand and bless her.
Her husband praises her:
29 “There are many virtuous and capable women in the world,
but you surpass them all!”

30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last;
but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised.
31 Reward her for all she has done.
Let her deeds publicly declare her praise.

Sometimes I scoff at this lady, but truly I admire her. If only I could be like her. I am still a work in progress. God bless you in the new year as God continues to work in you!

Weekly Bible Reading Update

I am sitting here at my in-law's house enjoying the cold snowy weather. I missed writing last week, but the weekend before was filled with moving. Because of the move, out internet was disconnected and it won't be re-connected until we get back from our Christmas trip. I hadn't been writing about our trip, because we were trying to surprise Kirk's mom and dad. Although, Kirk and I messed up several times, we did succeed in pulling off a great surprise!

I am almost to the end of reading in the One Year Bible. Moving and getting ready for the trip kept me very busy, so I had gotten behind in my reading. I just caught up today. The passage that I want to highlight for last week's reading was in the December 16th reading. Micah 6:8 "No, O people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God."

The passage I want to highlight in this week's reading is in yesterday's reading, December 22nd, Proverb's 30:18,19 "There are three things that amaze me - no, four things that I don't understand:how an eagle glides through the sky, how a snake slithers on a rock, how a ship navigates the ocean, how a man loves a woman."

God bless you this week and I hope that you have a happy Christmas day and that you take time to celebrate Jesus' birthday.

All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth!

My daughter has lost both top front teeth within a few days of each other. After the first tooth was lost on Friday the tooth fairy messed up (again) and forgot to trade the tooth for some money, so she got a little extra the next night. She was so excited about getting 5 bucks for a tooth that she was wiggling the other tooth extra hard. She has her eye on something at the store that she would love to be able to buy.

All I want for Christmas is to be moved into a new house and be able to see all my loved ones. Yes, I said it. We are moving into a new house. I have resisted talking about it until it was actually in the works. We are suppose to be moving soon, but I am not for sure when. We are suppose to be moved out of our house by Friday....mmm... Life with Kirk Evans makes for an exciting ride....which is sometimes a bit stressful.

I have been a bit stressed not only because we are moving BUT because I was trying to study for my final in my Constitution class. I took the test last night. The test went well, but I won't know for sure for a few days. Our church's live nativity was last weekend and this weekend. Since Kirk and I are tour leaders, there are lines to remember. Now that the test is done, my hope that is in a week, all the rest of my stress will be behind me. Of course I will have new stress... but I will leave that for another post.

Weekly Bible Reading

I am posting a day early, but I have a busy week and I wanted to get this done.I am still caught up on my reading, but I am highlighting December 5th's reading in Hosea.

Hosea 1:2 NLT "When the Lord first began speaking to Israel through Hosea, he said to him, “Go and marry a prostitute,^[b] so that some of her children will be conceived in prostitution. This will illustrate how Israel has acted like a prostitute by turning against the Lord and worshiping other gods.”

The story of Hosea always speaks to me. Paralleling God's relationship with Israel to having a relationship with a prostitute is a very vivid picture to me. The end of the story is even more inspiring - that Hosea brings his wife back to love just how God brings Israel back to Himself to love. AND the real story is that He is that way with us. He wants to redeem us from our sin. That reminds me of my favorite book called Redeeming Love, written by Francine Rivers. It might seem like a book just for females, but I encourage men to read it as well. It is a powerful story, written with the story of Hosea in mind - read it, I know you will love it.

Weekly Bible Reading Update!

Happy December! I am caught up on my reading and I hope that I can stay caught up through the end of the year. I wanted to highlight a passage selected for November 30th, I John 1:7-9

"But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin. If we claim that we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and not living in the truth. But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness."

I have, in the past, fooled myself, claiming that I have no sin. Sitting in communion praying for others because I thought that I didn't have my own problems - that was foolish and shame on me. It is humbling to admit my own foolish mistakes. My hope is in having a faithful and just Heavenly Father who forgives my foolishness. My desire is to live in the Light, and I hope that you desire that as well.

Since this is December, I hope that you are thinking of ways to keep "Christ" in Christmas and not to get wrapped up in the pressures of the Season. God bless you!

Happy Thanksgiving

George Washington said this in his first Thanksgiving proclamation: "Whereas it is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favor - and whereas both Houses of Congress have by their joint Committee requested me 'to recommend to the People of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many signal favors of Almighty God especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness'."

As you think on that, I hope you get plenty of turkey, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, stuffing, pumpkin pie, and football today. (Did I forget anything?)

Roe v. Wade

When I decided to take a class at the last minute in August. I had several to choose from. All of them had a waiting list, so there was an equal chance for me to get or not get into any of them. For whatever reason, I felt myself pulled to the class, "The Constitution and the Rights of Americans." At first, I decided that I made the wrong choice. I just wanted a class that I could sit in the back and take notes. That was not this class. As time went on, however, I started to feel comfortable and I have learned so much. What a tremendous blessing it has been to take this class.

Last night we discussed Roe v. Wade in class. I knew it was coming all semester, so I bought a book by Randy Alcorn called, ProLife Answers to ProChoice Arguments. I also have been frequenting his blog, Eternal Perspectives. I even watched a video full abortion footage. The first time I watched it, I had to stop. I made myself go back and watch the fullness of it. If we are allowing this to happen in our country, I felt the importance of seeing it. It was awful and the images are still etched in my brain. I feel burdened. Last week, I finally read Roe v. Wade.

In Roe v. Wade, the opinion of the Court, established 3 "rules." Paraphrasing, 1) During the 1st trimester, the state cannot interfere with the abortion decision. 2) During the 2nd trimester, the State can regulate abortion, 3)During the 3rd trimester, the stage subsequent to viability, the state can regulate and ban abortion, except to save the mother's life.

These are the rules the professor wrote on the board. Then we went on to look at a chart in our textbook that contained information about our states and their regulations on abortion. I was surprised at the number of states that don't do much in ways of regulating abortion. That is concerning to me. Besides the pro-life advocates out there trying to push legislation, I think that the majority of people who consider themselves "pro-life" do nothing. It is easy to forget about those who have no voice. Because of last night, I have become convicted to become more active in the Pro-life movement. The state of California, where I live, has very few regulations for getting an abortion and I need to do my part in changing that.

I am pleased with the outcome of last night's discussion. I had been doing some research, but I knew that when it comes to debate - I stink. I always forget what I should say until after the debate is over. I did make some notes about what I thought might come up and then I just prayed about it. I know that the Lord was with me last night, because I raised some questions that no one really had an answer to. There were 3 pro-choice girls in the group that were vocal and of course the professor is pro-choice. (He did try to stay neutral.) I got a lot of, "I can see what you are saying..." I have to say that I talked the most in the group, but there were some points that I could not just let hang. I am sure that some of the students were thinking, "there she goes again..." I am hopeful that I planted some seeds. One of them is, "what gives the Supreme Court the right to decide what life is ESPECIALLY if there is a shred of doubt." Roe v. Wade leaves a shred of doubt. Another thought that I put out there is the importance of knowing the facts of abortion and I even reminded everyone that Obama himself said that we should reduce the number of abortions. There was much more that was said last night, but whether seeds were planted in others or not, I know that I have learned much and am grateful that I had the chance. Taking this class was not an accident....

Weekly Bible Reading Update

November 21st reading:

1 Joyful are people of integrity,
who follow the instructions of the Lord.
2 Joyful are those who obey his laws
and search for him with all their hearts.
3 They do not compromise with evil,
and they walk only in his paths.
4 You have charged us
to keep your commandments carefully.
5 Oh, that my actions would consistently
reflect your decrees!
6 Then I will not be ashamed
when I compare my life with your commands.
7 As I learn your righteous regulations,
I will thank you by living as I should!
8 I will obey your decrees.
Please don’t give up on me!
9 How can a young person stay pure?
By obeying your word.
10 I have tried hard to find you—
don’t let me wander from your commands.
11 I have hidden your word in my heart,
that I might not sin against you.
12 I praise you, O Lord;
teach me your decrees.
13 I have recited aloud
all the regulations you have given us.
14 I have rejoiced in your laws
as much as in riches.
15 I will study your commandments
and reflect on your ways.
16 I will delight in your decrees
and not forget your word.

With this year coming to an end soon, I have been contemplating what I will do in the new year after I finished my One Year Bible. This Psalm is a good reminder of the power of God's Laws and His Word.

I have decided not to read it again, but I am planning to read Beth Moore's Praying God's Word. She also has a book about praying God's Word everyday. I hope to get that (maybe that would be a good Christmas present). There are 15 chapters plus an introduction, so I will probably be posting on that the first 16 weeks of the new year. Maybe you would like to buy the book and follow along and keep me accountable. Please do.

God bless you this week as you celebrate Thanksgiving. One thing that I am thankful for is being able to read God's Word and it blessing my life. Try it.

Weekly Bible Reading Update

Today, I read the selected reading for November 15th, but I am taking scripture from several days the past week. This past week we were reading in Hebrews 11 and 12. I love those passages. I find so much encouragement in there. When we lived in Griswold, the church wanted to encourage Sunday School, so for about a month's time we had a contest. One part of the contest was memorizing Hebrews 11. Of course I HAD to try to do it and I am so glad that I did. Memorizing something makes you really think about what you are saying and those verses spoke to me. I can't say it all from memory now, but I cherish the words when I do read them. I am going to post Hebrews chapter 11:1-3 NLT and the NIV (I memorized the NIV version and I like it better), but I encourage you to also read the rest of the chapter and also chapter 12. BTW- While I was memorizing this chapter, I was pregnant with my firstborn and it is one of the reasons why I chose her name.

NLT 1 Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see. 2 Through their faith, the people in days of old earned a good reputation.3 By faith we understand that the entire universe was formed at God’s command, that what we now see did not come from anything that can be seen.

NIV 1Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. 2This is what the ancients were commended for. 3By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.

Have a great week!

Whatcha Cookin

I am trying to revive my cooking blog, Whatcha Cookin after almost a year of nothing. It seems like I ran out of steam and my good idea was just an idea. The longer I didn't post a recipe, the easier for me to not try. This is my latest attempt, I emailed a bunch of my facebook friends and I ask them to send me recipes. I have gotten some that I am going to post and share with you. I am going to try them before I post them. AND I am going to try and post one a week. BUT in the event that my life gets way too crazy, I will post them with a disclaimer that I haven't tried them. I hope that you check it out and maybe you will find some recipes that will work for your family, or feel free to share some of your recipe suggestions. Happy cooking!

A Lesson

I am learning a hard lesson about motherhood. My children are growing and there is nothing that I can do about it. I stay positive by enjoying the stage of life that they are in, but I can't help but miss the stage of life that they have left because they are growing. I get teary-eyed just thinking about it. When I look at pictures and see chubby cheeks that are now no more, I wonder where has the time gone and why does it have to pass so quickly. It is almost like I have to say good-bye to a person and learn about another - it is not so drastic as that because it is a gradual change, but it is a change indeed.

As I was sitting on the couch, trying to write a paper on Supreme Court Justices and whether they should be able to make ultimate decisions about the direction of our society, in comes my youngest, my 2-year old. He doesn't talk much yet, but he understands much of what I say to him. I told him where his brother and sister were and he says his customary, "oh," and off he goes down the hall to get something. His little legs carrying him on an important errand. What a little man he is. He goes to Sunday School now, and I can't think of one time he has cried about it, unlike my other 2, he seems fine with me leaving him in his class. Last Spring, I remember the last time I rocked him to sleep. I remember thinking how this may be the last time I rocked him to sleep and so I sat and rocked him just a little longer just for that reason.

I suppose the main reason for me having such a hard time is the fact that this is my last time to do it. Kirk and I have no plans on having any more children. Little ones depend on mothers so much and we are made to be depended on- in most cases we enjoy it. What a huge task that we sometimes fail in, but what sweet rewards in the times that we succeed. The kisses and hugs we get, even when we don't look or act our best.

I thank God for the blessing of 3 little ones. I hope and pray that I will always remember their sweetness as little people. I hope and pray that as they grow that they will still come to me for guidance and that they will remember what I taught them. Mostly, I hope that they decide to have a relationship with the Lord and will follow Him all the days of their lives. It is for these 3 little ones that I have decided to go back to school, therefore, I need to get back to writing this paper. Have a great week and enjoy the little ones that you have in your life.

Weekly Bible Reading Update

November 8th reading, Ezekiel 18:1-4, 30-32, NLT

1 Then another message came to me from the Lord: 2 “Why do you quote this proverb concerning the land of Israel: ‘The parents have eaten sour grapes, but their children’s mouths pucker at the taste’? 3 As surely as I live, says the Sovereign Lord, you will not quote this proverb anymore in Israel. 4 For all people are mine to judge—both parents and children alike. And this is my rule: The person who sins is the one who will die.

30 “Therefore, I will judge each of you, O people of Israel, according to your actions, says the Sovereign Lord. Repent, and turn from your sins. Don’t let them destroy you! 31 Put all your rebellion behind you, and find yourselves a new heart and a new spirit. For why should you die, O people of Israel? 32 I don’t want you to die, says the Sovereign Lord. Turn back and live!

I recommend that you should read the whole chapter, Ezekiel 18:1-32. God STILL wanted to save all of Israel from sin, He didn't want them to die. He offered them a way, even after their rebellion. AND because of Jesus, He offers the same to us. He wants us as His adopted sons and daughters. I find that inspiring today! I ask that you keep Kirk and me in your prayers. Our life is on the threshold of becoming hectic and we need God's peace. I am sure I will tell you more about it in the days to come. God bless you today and this week.

Weekly Bible Reading Update

October 28, Titus 3:1-8 NLT

1 Remind the believers to submit to the government and its officers. They should be obedient, always ready to do what is good. 2 They must not slander anyone and must avoid quarreling. Instead, they should be gentle and show true humility to everyone.

3 Once we, too, were foolish and disobedient. We were misled and became slaves to many lusts and pleasures. Our lives were full of evil and envy, and we hated each other.

4 But—“When God our Savior revealed his kindness and love, 5 he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit.^[a] 6 He generously poured out the Spirit upon us through Jesus Christ our Savior. 7 Because of his grace he declared us righteous and gave us confidence that we will inherit eternal life.” 8 This is a trustworthy saying, and I want you to insist on these teachings so that all who trust in God will devote themselves to doing good. These teachings are good and beneficial for everyone.

I thought that this passage was useful to me as we draw to a close in this election season. The pastor's sermon at my church was also a great reminder. He is preaching on the Lord's Prayer. As you are voting, remember, "Your will be done." Not your will, God's will. I think it puts the election and voting process all in prospective. It also reminds me that you and I don't have to have it all worked out because God does. That is called faith. Your propositions and your candidates might not win, but God is taking care of the future. Are you ready to see what happens? I am. That is one of my favorite parts of my faith, is seeing how God works. I don't always like the process, but I like the end result. Have faith and be hopeful! God bless and have a great week!

Pumpkin Carnival and Halloween

This is the church's pumpkin carnival. My nephew dressed up as a Husker fan, my four year old is Batman, my two year old is Superman, and my six year old dressed up like Lucy from Narnia.











My 2 year old was feeling shy. Dad's shirt is always a good place to hide.






My four year old loved playing the games at the carnival.









My daughter's school can't have a celebration unless it is educational. So instead of dressing up for a Halloween party, they had a character parade. They had to be a character in a book and they had to write a summary of the book in order to be in the parade.






We went over to a friend's house to trick-or-treat. Kirk wanted to take his car. While we were driving, one of the kids asked, "Dad, why are we driving the cool car?"

Now it is November - wow, October flew by.

Monterrey, California

Kirk's parents and his nephew came to visit for the week. On Thursday we traveled to Monterrey to see the Monterrey Bay Aquarium. The down side to the day was my daughter throwing up right before we got to Monterrey. She got a little car sick.



I thought that these clam pictures were cute!


The Aquarium is a little costly, but very nice! The kids are able to experience a lot of different aspects to sea life. There is an area to touch star fish and sting rays. We had a fun time! I didn't have many pictures of Logan because he was having a great time taking pictures of all the animals.





The Kelp Forest









She loves star fish!








Kirk touching a sting ray.







We also went to the beach. My four year old wasn't for sure about those waves.





Kirk's eyes are closed! I was not going to climb out on those rocks again to take another picture!





Logan had a fun time looking for sea life in the tidal pools. It was a relaxing day and we ended it by enjoying a meal at Bubba Gumps. MMM- Delicious!

Weekly Bible Reading Update

I thought that I was a little further in my reading, but I am not. I read October 21st today.

1Timothy 6:6-8, "Yet true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth. After all, we brought nothing with us when we came into the world, and we can't take anything with us when we leave it. So if we have enough food and clothing, let us be content."

I hope that you find contentment in God this week and not to be discontented with what you have. It is a good reminder of what is true contentment. If you want to keep reading, this passage has a lot of other reminders about the way we should view money.

My in-laws just visited. I will post pictures later this week. Today and tomorrow my daughter and I are busy with school work. She has a plant project due Wednesday. I actually ruined the flowers that she was suppose to use, so we are going to re-do them. I have a test for my Constitution class Tuesday night that I am trying to study for as well.

I hope that you have a blessed week!

Weekly Bible Reading Update

Psalm 84, in October 14th's reading, says "How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord of Heaven's Armies. I long, yes, I faint with longing to enter the courts of the Lord. With my whole being, body and soul, I will shout joyfully to the living God." Verses 1-2

"A single day in your courts is better than a thousand anywhere else! I would rather be a gatekeeper in the house of my God than live the good life in the homes of the wicked. For the Lord is our sun and shield. He gives us grace and glory. The Lord will withhold no good thing from those you do what is right. O Lord of Heaven's Armies, what joy for those who trust in you." Verses 10-12

Proverbs 25:15"Patience can persuade a prince, a soft speech can break bones."

I found that these verses were comforting to me at this moment in my life. Because of the uncertainty of the economy and of the election and feeling a little helpless in all of it, I remember that one day with God is better than anywhere else and that I need to trust in Him! The Proverbs verse reminds me to be patient and watch what I say.

I hope that you are reminded of God's greatness during your uncertainties and that you also are working on your patience. You will be glad that you did. God bless you!

Weekly Bible Reading Update

(I know that I haven't posted pictures of Kirk's car, but it is not working at the moment, so I am waiting. I wanted to take some picture at another location, but since it isn't running properly, the pictures are on hold. Sorry!)

I read October 8th in the OneYear Bible today. I am s l o w l y catching up. Today I read about wives submitting to husbands - not my favorite topic. I am a rebel when it comes to that subject. However, I have to keep reminding Kirk that it could be worse. On Saturday, we were in the Target parking lot waiting to turn the corner, but we were being held up by a van that was in the way. The man/husband was sitting in the driver's seat and woman/wife came out of Target and insisted that the man/husband get out so she could drive. I could tell that the man was wanting to drive, but he did move and let the woman drive. I do not know the background story here, but this woman didn't care that she was holding up traffic, she wanted what she wanted. I don't think that I am that bad. I have rebellious feelings about this verse because that is the part highlighted, but not the next part, "Husbands, love your wives and never treat them harshly." Everyone has definite opinions about how women can SUBMIT, but where are those definite opinions about how men can LOVE? I think it is inconsistent. Just tell me I am wrong, I would love to hear about it.

Anyway, the few verses I really want to highlight are also out of Colossians.

3:23 & 24, "Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ."

4:2, "Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart."

4:5 & 6, "Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone."

I pray that those verses remind you today of how we should live. Do your work as if working for the Lord. Pray alertly and thankfully. Also, converse graciously. God bless you today, I have to go now and do the Lord's laundry and His dishes and pick up His clothes and clean His bathroom. (I hope I haven't confused you here, not Kirk's , but God's - remember do our work as if we were working for Him. Maybe that way of thinking might help me be a little more cheerful about housework and a little less grumbly.) Have a great day!

Weekly Bible Reading Update

I am in October. I finished October 1st this morning. Whew. We started up our Thursday evening Bible Study. I also had a meeting last Monday evening. So the only 2 evenings that were somewhat free were Friday and Saturday. I know others are equally or even more busy than I am, but when you are not used to the busyness, it can wipe you out. I feel so behind and I am exhausted. Plus, we had a rained out flea market on Saturday that we still set up for and got soaked, and a birthday party in the afternoon. Wow!

I have been reading a lot of scripture lately, and it all starts to run together. I will read something that I want to share and then I will forget about it when I find something new.

Today, I am going to share with you a verse that I try to live by, but at times I struggle in doing it until I am reminded about the verse again. The background story to this verse is about my mother. She use to be (and still is) a dorm mother at Nebowa Christian Church Camp. The first night at camp she would have a meeting with all the girls. She would talk to them about the week, but she would say that she only had one rule for them to abide by. Philippians 2:3&4. I read it in the September 30th reading.

"Don't be selfish; don't try to impress others. Be humble thinking of others better than yourselves. Don't look out for only your own interests, but take an interest in others, too." NLT

The translation is different, but the thought is, if you think of others before you think of yourselves, you will keep your stuff picked up and neat, you will flush the toilet, you will be quiet when lights are out, you will be kind and watch what you say to others, etc.

This week, try to remember that verse as you are dealing with people. At work, in the grocery store line, in Walmart, on the road as you are driving, and yes, even when you go to church, think of others better as yourself. (NIV)

God bless you this week!

Catching Up: September Pictures

I have not done a good job showing what the kids have been up to lately. Truthfully, September has gone by in a blur. I can't believe

that it is October already. I was going through the calendar for October and it is full. The church's flea market, a church camping
weekend, my daughter has a week off for fall break, family is
suppose to visit, the church's Pumpkin Carnival, and all the
festivities that come with Halloween time are the activities that are planned.

These first three pictures are of the three kids in their new Sunday School classes. The daughter is in the 1st and 2nd grade class. The middle is in the 4's,5's, and K's class. My youngest has moved out of the nursery and into the 2's and 3's class. I am a little sad about my baby being out of the nursery, but it is fun to see him doing big boy things.

In case you are wondering, he is talking more. Of course I am the only one who understands most of what he is trying to say. Lately, he has been saying, "Non" for his brother's name. I think that it is cute. He is still far behind, because he is suppose to be putting several words together by now, and he is not.



This picture is when we took the class's stuffed animal out for ice cream. My oldest was student of the week and she took Fuzzy home for the week. She was in charge of keeping a journal and writing about their adventures.





My youngest loves to put together puzzles. The harder ones, he never finishes, but it amazes me how much he does get together. Needless to say, I am always putting puzzles together when it is time to pick up. In fact, I have hidden some puzzles for a time because I am so tired of putting them back together. Shh! So, my youngest is behind on his talking, but he understands very much! He can point out colors, a lot of animals, and he knows most of the
trains from the Thomas stories. There are other examples of the things that he knows, but those are a few.


This is a picture of my middle child when he fell asleep after reading books. I think that I have instilled the love of books into my three kiddos - I hope!





I have enrolled my 2 oldest children in a soccer program that meets every Friday. It is a non-competitive program. They are learning the basics. We have gone one time and they both love it. They can't wait to go back.




I am glad that my daughter likes it, because she is shy. My son, he has no problem being himself. We started going to a Bible Club on Wednesday evenings at another church. My son enjoys going and is doing a great job. My daughter on the other hand is having a hard time and is not making any friends. I think it is important that she goes, but I am praying for her to make a friend, or that we can take one of hers from our church or school.


That is what the kids are up to. Kirk wants me to post pictures of his car. I will try to do that next week. I have been continuing to run/walk with Biscuit. My college class is going okay. I don't have all my grades back, but the ones I do know are pretty good. I am just feeling anxious about that paper and essay question. Also we have a simulation coming up that I am nervous about. What does it say in the Bible, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-7) Okay, Okay! I will try to remember that.

I am a little nervous about the debate tonight, too, so I am praying.
Love to you all! I hope you are well.

Weekly Bible Reading Update

September 19th Reading, the passages that I picked were meaningful to me today.

Isaiah 33:5-6 "Though the Lord is very great and lives in heaven, he will make Jerusalem his home of justice and righteousness. In that day he will be your sure foundation, providing a rich store of salvation, wisdom and knowledge. The fear of the Lord will be your treasure."

Galatians 5:5-6 "But we who live by the Spirit eagerly wait to receive by faith the righteousness God has promised us. For when we place our faith in Christ Jesus, there is no benefit in being circumcised or being uncircumcised. What is important is faith expressing itself in love."

Psalm 63:1-8 "O God, you are my God; I earnestly search for you. My soul thirsts for you; my whole body longs for you in this parched and weary land where there is no water. I have seen you in your sanctuary and gazed upon your power and glory. Your unfailing love is better than life itself; how I praise you! I will praise you as long as I live, lifting up my hands to you in prayer. You satisfy me more than the richest feast. I will praise you with songs of joy. I lie awake thinking of you, meditating on you through the night. Because you are my helper, I sing for joy in the shadow of your wings. I cling to you; your strong right hand holds me securely."

Proverbs 23:22 "Listen to your father, who gave you life, and don't despise your mother when she is old."

God bless you this week and trust God, He is who He says He is.

What Has 40 Arms and 48 Legs?

I received the following article from some friends who work with a missions organization. I will tell you more about them at the end. I liked this article so much, that with the help of my dad, I used it as an offering devotion at church.


How do 20 Believers from the Higaunon tribe and 2 pigs travel more than 50 miles to a bi-annual church conference in the Philippines?

They hire 2 motorcycles.

Their load includes all of their luggage, but it is not as bad as it sounds because the pigs didn't bring any luggage.

"These motorbikes have a frame built on the back of them with 2 planks of wood tied cross ways to them and they often carry up to ten people plus the driver," wrote missionaries Ron and Michelle Jennings. "Two people sit behind the driver, and two boards that they call wings stick out on each side in order to carry eight more."

"They told how they braced themselves along the highway as big buses overtook them with other buses coming the other way and they prayed thinking that they were going to be squashed between them. Then on the mountain roads they described how many times they crashed as the bike could not stay balanced on the rough roads."

"It's okay though," they said, "with the wings sticking out the way they do, the bikes can't actually crush you. You just get toppled off."

Hiring the bikes cost the believers the equivalent of 2 weeks wages.

"Anyone who is willing to go through all of that to attend a Bible conference - and then stand at this end rejoicing in God's provision in getting them there - has to have a motive that is a little bit beyond the natural realm," wrote Ron and Michelle. "They just decided what the Lord wanted them to do and placed themselves in His hands."


Priorities. This story shows me that these Believers had their priorities in the right place. Matthew 6:33 talks about where our priorities should be, "But seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." All Christians need to be examples of that. In all that we do, are we seeking FIRST God's Kingdom and Righteousness? Are we willing to get on a motorbike built for 10 people because it is the right thing to do? How deep is your faith? When it comes to giving your money to God, how deep is your faith?

2 Corinthians 9:6-8 says, "Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work."

You will find this article here at http://www.ntm.org/andy_corley/4151. I went to college with Kristi (Neff) Corley and I also met her husband, Andy, there even though he wasn't a student at NCC. They are currently serving with New Tribes Missions. You can check them out at the above website.

Weekly Bible Reading Update

Sept. 14th reading, Proverbs 23:12, "Commit yourself to instruction; listen carefully to words of knowledge."

I plan on posting a offering devotion that I did several weeks ago in a few days. I ask that you pray for me tomorrow night. It is my first test for my Constitution class. I am a little nervous about the essay questions concerning the different cases that we have studied.

I hope you have a blessed week!

Some Thoughts

I really don't have time for this because I need to finish getting ready to go to church, but I am going to make time this morning. Writing is healing to me. I have been beating myself up this weekend - I don't know if you do it to yourself, but I can't stop beating myself up over my failures and inadequacies. All it does is leave me sad and feeling in the dumps.

So as I am getting ready to go to church, I remember the lesson I did last week for a ladies Bible study. The study is in James. The version of the Bible the study uses is the New Century Version. James 1: 2-4, "My brothers and sisters, when you have many kinds of troubles, you should be full of joy, because you know that these troubles test your faith, and this will give you patience. Let your patience show perfectly in what you do. Then you will be perfect and complete and will have everything you need."

Though my troubles are small compared to many, I can't be weighed down anymore by feeling inadequate. I realized that in my lesson, I need to be full of joy. Today I am going to work on that. In having joy, patience will come.

I must go now. I may go to church not quite so perfect on the outside, but at least I am striving for joy on the inside. If I continue to do that, perfection will come.

And The Answer Is...

Now if I was a good granddaughter, I would have already seen this riddle before it was in my local newspaper, because my Grandpa and Grandpa Huff sent me this riddle in an email. Many of you probably already know the answer, but for those who don't I will repeat the whole riddle with the answer here.

Who am I?

I am under 45 years old,

I love the outdoors,

I hunt,

I am a Republican reformer,

I have taken on the Republican Party establishment,

I have many children,

I have a spot on the national ticket as vice

president with less than two years in the

governor's office.

Did you guess?

I am Teddy Roosevelt in 1900

History repeating itself?

Can You Guess Who?

My local paper printed this in the opinion section.

"I am under 45 years old. I love the outdoors, I hunt, I am a Republican reformer, I have taken on the Republican Party establishment, I have many children, I have a spot on the national ticket as Vice-President with less than two years in the governor's office. Have you heard of me before now?"

Can you guess who? I will tell you what the answer is tomorrow.

Dear Anonymous

I have had someone anonymous comment on my post about Sarah Palin. They gave a link to an article about comments that she made about the pipeline in Alaska. I cannot tell you enough how tired I am with the Presidential election. I am tired of trying to figure out if what the media and opposing campaigns are digging up about a candidate is true or not. I saw an interview with McCain on The View and I thought immediately that they were being extra hard on him, asking him tough questions. Not that I am opposed to tough questions, but I have seen them also interview Obama and that was not the case. I think that it should be fair and that there is too much of a bias on that show. Then I saw the interview with Palin and Charlie Gibson. Here is a man who is suppose to be without bias, and yet his questions seemed to be. AGAIN, I don't care about tough questions, but I would prefer both sides to be hit with tough questions, and AGAIN that doesn't seem to be the case.

The fact of the matter is that both campaigns are mud slinging, both sides are twisting what the other side is saying, and both sides cannot do all that they say they are going to do. I have to admit, following Ron Paul's suggestion and voting 3rd Party sounds like an interesting proposal. If many people do that, it could shake things up a bit. Most likely, I will not do that. I will tell you what I am going to do.

I am Pro-Life. I believe that life begins at conception. There are scientific studies that prove that. Any other studies that prove otherwise are not in agreement when life begins. I am sorry if you have an unexpected pregnancy, I am sorry if it came through unpleasant means. When we live in a world like this, we have to go through hard times. But just because it is in a woman's body, doesn't give her the right to get rid of the life growing inside of her. You cannot convince me otherwise.

I read an article written by a Pro-Choicer. She ended her article saying that life is a crap shoot. You are a crap-shoot. It is luck that we are here in the first place. I feel sorry for her. If you believe that, I feel sorry for you. I see what she is saying, but it is not the case. How can you live your life if it is just a crap-shoot? It is not giving any worth to life. You cannot be a Christian and believe that. God has a plan for us.

I am going to be writing more about my views on abortion. The Constitution class that I am taking is really opening my eyes up to it again. I may fail the class, but I am gaining some new insights.

Dear Anonymous, I probably cannot convince you to vote McCain/Palin for my reason, just like you cannot convince me to vote for Obama/Binden for your reasons. I will not vote for them because of the fact that they are pro-choice. In fact, it seems that Obama opposed the Born Alive Infants Bill. In opposing the bill, he is saying he supports not saving the aborted baby who is born alive. If a man can do that, what kind of a man is he?

I am obviously voting for McCain/Palin. I need a person as President who recognizes the humanity of an unborn baby. We cannot ignore this issue, we cannot avoid this issue, we cannot sweep it under the carpet. It can't be a woman's rights issue, it needs to be a human's rights issue.

Weekly Bible Reading Update

I read September 10th's portion of scripture today. Isaiah 6: 1-9a is a favorite passage of mine. In fact, I used this passage during my Senior sermon at college.

1 It was in the year King Uzziah died^[a] that I saw the Lord. He was sitting on a lofty throne, and the train of his robe filled the Temple. 2 Attending him were mighty seraphim, each having six wings. With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they flew. 3 They were calling out to each other,

“Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of Heaven’s Armies!
The whole earth is filled with his glory!”

4 Their voices shook the Temple to its foundations, and the entire building was filled with smoke.

5 Then I said, “It’s all over! I am doomed, for I am a sinful man. I have filthy lips, and I live among a people with filthy lips. Yet I have seen the King, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies.”

6 Then one of the seraphim flew to me with a burning coal he had taken from the altar with a pair of tongs. 7 He touched my lips with it and said, “See, this coal has touched your lips. Now your guilt is removed, and your sins are forgiven.”

8 Then I heard the Lord asking, “Whom should I send as a messenger to this people? Who will go for us?”

I said, “Here I am. Send me.”

9 And he said, “Yes, go


How blessed you are when your sins are forgiven and your guilt is removed. God bless you today, now GO!

Weekly Bible Reading Update

I have been sick. I don't know when I have had a cold as bad as this one. It developed into a sinus infection and I have to tell you that I felt pretty miserable. It doesn't really surprise me though, starting all these life changes and babysitting 2 other children besides my own, I had to come down with something. Needless to say, EVERYTHING, was put on hold. I was just trying to survive the last 2 weeks. I am happy to say that I am feeling much better. I am still suffering from a cough. My kids, as well, are still suffering from cold symptoms. I feel like a bear digging out after hibernation - I look around my house and I think, "what a mess!"

My Bible reading was also put on hold. This morning I opened my One Year Bible to see where I am in my reading - September 2nd! What words greet me at the start of the reading? " 'Everything is meaningless,' says the Teacher, 'completely meaningless.' " Is that a sign? Should I just go back to bed? Thankfully, I know how the book of Ecclesiastes ends. September 2nd's reading ends with this, a reminder of what I do need this day, Proverbs 22:15, "A youngster's heart is filled with foolishness, but physical discipline will drive it far away."

I hope and pray that you are striving for discipline in your life. The more disciplined we are in the way we live, the less foolish mistakes we have to make. I think that is very practical advice.

Another life change that I haven't mentioned is the fact that I am taking a college course. I have decided that I am going to pursue getting my teaching credential. Before I can get into the program, I needed to take a government class. Jumping in with both feet, I got into a Constitution class at the local junior college. As interesting and stretching as it is, I am wondering that it may be too much for me and my stay-at-home mommy brain. (I am not putting down stay-at-home mothers here, I just feel like part of my brain is a little dusty and cob-webby). Depending on how I do on the paper that is due tonight, I may drop the class. I am sure I will update you on what I decide, when I decide.

God bless you this week in staying disciplined in your life!

The Question is, "Do I have your vote?"

Click on the link below and have yourself a good laugh.

http://www.inews3.com/topstory.php?id=526562656363617c4576616e73

Sleeping

I have had issues with getting all 3 of my children to sleep in their own bed at least once in each of their lives. I developed strategies for the first 2 and after a time of planning, executing, following through and being consistent, I had those 2 sleeping in their beds. I can say now that they are good sleepers. In fact my middle child is pretty great at sleeping. Thank goodness. I thought that I could probably write a book about sleeping.

With all 3 children, when they were first born, I brought them to my own bed and they stayed with me. About 9-10 months into this situation, my husband would have had about enough of the situation and start complaining about it. I started weaning the baby, around 1 year, although it got a few months later with each baby. At that time I would start working on the technique to get the child to sleep in his/her crib.

Enter my youngest. He has been something. I will struggle with my method and it will take months and suddenly he will sleep in his own bed. Just when I start patting myself on the back for a job well-done, he starts his problems all over again. Ever since my family was here visitingthis summer, my youngest has been giving me problems about sleeping. Some days I just want to scream. As I was sitting at the door, waiting for him to go to sleep (that is how the Super-Nanny does it), I was watching him mess around, willing me to look at him - he was acting out. He reminded me of a little monkey. (I am sure some of are saying just spank the child. Oh believe me I have.) So as I was sitting there seeing all of this in my peripheral vision, trying not to laugh and trying not to go crazy mad, I wondered, "Is it child abuse if I duct taped him to the bed?"

Don't worry I didn't. But I did think it. Now he is sleeping peacefully in his bed. He will wake up soon in about an hour and I will just pull him into bed with me because I don't want to go through it again. What am I going to do? Just when you think you have the answers, you get smacked up against the head to be reminded that you don't.

I didn't forget my Weekly Bible Reading, but I will explain that the next time. Happy Sleeping everyone!

An Exciting Election

I cannot tell you how excited I am that Sarah Palin is John McCain's running-mate. This will be such an historic election, either we will have a African-American man as President or we will have a woman as Vice-President. As I was listening to Gov. Palin's speech yesterday, I started to get teary-eyed. I am not for sure why exactly, but I think that she made me hopeful about the future. I am not trusting of politicians these days, but she gave me the hope that I could trust her. I also must interject a thought here, my feeling about politicians has nothing to do with the current administration - I am not a Bush Hater. I have not always agreed with the way that Bush has handled certain situations, but I am glad he was in office instead of those "other guys." He is human, therefor and not perfect. I am not an Obama supporter. I can understand why people are mesmerized by him, but I don't believe in his changes. When he speaks I just hear empty promises.

As I was driving yesterday, my husband left the radio turned to his station. I am not for sure what the station number was, but it runs conservative talk shows. When I started driving, the program was Michael Savage's. He was on and being very negative about Palin being McCain's choice. He extremely irritated me. He was making fun of her being a hockey-mom and some of the other things that she did before she became Governor of Alaska. He is not the only one who is critical, but I guess that is their job. I will not be swayed by their criticisms. I do not care if she is a "no-name," are we back in highschool again? I like that she wasn't known, and wasn't considered by political analyists as McCain's VP choice. I like that she knows about being a "hockey mom" - that shows her realness. Many of today's politicians don't have that realness about them, they have lived in a glass fish bowl way too long.

I believe that God uses the weak and makes them strong. I believe that God uses the "no-names" to do mighty things. I like what Palin stands for and I am excited that she is John McCain's running-mate.

Weekly Bible Reading Update

I am still staying caught up, which means no guilty feelings about that lately! Although I am caught up, I am taking my selected scripture passage from the reading on August 20th. 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 NLT

"If I could speak all the languages of earth and of angels, but didn't love others, I would be a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I understood all of God's secret plans and possessed all knowledge, and if I had such faith that I could move mountains, but didn't love others, I would be nothing. If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it, but if I didn't love others, I would have gained nothing."

This passage always touches my heart every time I read it. Loving is something that can be argued about. How one shows love maybe different than how someone else might. When it comes down to it, everyone needs to evaluate why they do something, is it out of love - true unconditional love taught to us by our Heavenly Father, or is it selfish love (doing something when we only think of what we will get out of it)?

Another life change that I am making in my life is that I am making myself have a daily prayer time. I have gotten out of that habit and I see how my life has changed because of it. Of course I pray before meals and at bedtime with my kids. I also pray sporadically during the day if I need extra help. I am talking about taking time and praying every day on the behalf of others and thanking God and praising Him. I am continuing in my running and making good cleaning habits with flylady.com. I hope and pray that I just CONTINUE with these disciplines. I ask that you keep me in your prayers. Starting so many life changes at one time can get overwhelming. Baby steps! I pray that your actions are motivated by love! Love to you all from me!

Happy Anniversary

Thirty-eight years ago, today, my parents got married. Were you there? Thankfully, I wasn't! It has been years since I looked at that wedding picture. What a handsome couple my parents are. I love Mom's glasses and her hair. I thought about cropping the picture, so it just had my parents in it. How could I? What wonderful people stand around them! I have to say that when I saw my Grandpa Silas, I started to get teary eyes. I remember that face and it brings good memories. I am so grateful for all my grandparents! Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad! Congratulations! Thank you for your good example in marriage. Thank you for letting us share our anniversary with you.
Ten years ago today, Kirk and I got married. Were you there? I just wanted you to look closely at the wedding dress. It is the same! I had it altered some to make it my own, but what a special way to share a day, by sharing the dress. In some ways 10 years seems like a long time, in other ways I know that it is just a short time. We have changed so much - our personalities, our family, we added new friends, and we have moved. It makes me wonder what is to come. If 10 years is all we have together, I am so glad that I got to spend them with Kirk! I love you Kirky-Poo!

First Day of School

A week ago this past Monday, my oldest started school - the first grade. (I keep wanting to say Kindergarten.) She was a little apprehensive, but it was so much better than last year. Last year I had to leave her with tears in her eyes.

We went early. They don't say the Pledge of Allegiance in the classroom. It is optional. If you want your students to do it they need to be there 15 minutes early and the whole school gathers around the flagpole to say the Pledge.
At this school, they are to wear uniforms, but they promote college. Therefore it is okay to wear a college t-shirt, as you can see in the picture. Each class has a college name. Our daughter's class' name is the Berkeley Bears.
Why couldn't she have stayed in the Kindergarten forever? She is growing up so fast. Tonight she got so upset with me. I couldn't find her after looking all over the house. I open up the front door and there she is holding a small bag with a few toys inside. She was going to run away. I asked where would she go and she said down the street. I asked her where would she sleep and she said she would come back and sleep on the grass. I was about that age when I was going to run away, but my goodness, was it really so bad? I told her I loved her and that she shouldn't run away because I would miss her. I think she is better now, but maybe she needs a call from her Grandma and Grandpa. That might help.