Sleepy Thoughts on Marriage and Motherhood

2011-05-15T19:37:00.000-07:00

Loser!

When I was in college, I helped a college friend in his youth ministry. He created a t-shirt for the youth, it had "LOSER" written across the front of it. Of course, "loser" wouldn't be a label that most people would want to be labeled with. The idea of the shirt comes from Matthew 16 verse 25, "For whoever wants to save his life will lose it and whoever loses his life for me will find it." I was reminded of that verse recently as I was watching a t.v. program featuring a preacher from Australia. This man preached a sermon backing up this thought, "No mature Christian who is seasoned in the Word has any defend-able excuse for living their life offended." His point? If you are dying to self, if you are losing your life for Christ, if you are carrying your cross, than life looks differently and you can't be offended.

After I got done being offended, okay maybe not offended, but rather, convicted, I had a "ah-ha" moment. How many times have I let myself be offended? Instead of losing myself for Christ, I was losing myself for myself.

I also got to thinking how sometimes we American Christians become offended by the offering. Maybe you have been. "How dare someone tells me that I need to give money." "They are asking for money again?" Or "you need to give above and beyond." Let's not get into the whys and why-nots, but let's take a look at 2 Corinthians 8:2. Paul is telling the Corinthian church about how the Macedonian churches gave. He says, "Out of the most severe trial, their overwhelming joy and extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity." No matter what trial you are going through, do not let the offering offend you, rather as the Macedonian churches did, I pray that with the joy of the Lord, you will see how you can be generous.

2011-02-13T20:30:00.000-08:00

Giving a Cold Cup of Water

In Matthew chapter 10, Jesus sends out the 12 apostles and gives them authority over evil spirits, sickness and to preach the message. He gives them instructions for the mission, for instance in verse 9 he says, “Do not take any gold or silver or copper in your belts; take no bag for the journey, or extra tunic, or sandals or a staff; for the worker is worth his keep.” In verses 17-39, Jesus also warns of conflict, persecution, and the cost of discipleship.

At the end of this chapter, we see verse 42, “And if anyone gives, even a cold cup of water to one of these little ones, because he is my disciple, I tell you the truth, he will certainly get his reward.”

First, I want to mention that the term “little ones” refers not to children, but to the disciples, as they share the vulnerability and the lowly status of children. Second, I want to mention that to “give a cold cup of water” is basic eastern hospitality and needs no rewards, but as God always does, He shows us that His grace goes beyond our deserving. So with a different understanding of this verse, let's read it again. “And if anyone gives, even a cold cup of water to one of these little ones, because he is my disciple, I tell you the truth, he will certainly not lose his reward.

I want to focus on the “giving even a cold cup of water” and apply it to our giving. As you give offering, we know that God wants us to tithe our firstfruits and to give cheerfully as it instructs in Scripture, but consider also how you can give even a cold cup of water. Can you give of your service? Can you give of your time? Can you give of your hospitality to those who work so hard for the Kingdom’s work? Americans are good at using money as a band-aid to solve problems. How many times have we thought that winning the lottery will solve our financial problems? Or if someone is need of some help, we give them some money instead of staying and helping. Money is needed to run daily operations, but as you consider giving, don’t just consider the amount of money you should give, but how can you give of yourself? What ministries in the church need your “cup of cold water”?

2010-11-14T21:54:00.000-08:00

Achan's Sin

Last week during Sunday School, I asked my 2^nd and 3^rd grade students what “thing” did they want in the whole world. Some students said a Ninetendo DSi or an Xbox 360, but I had one who said that they wanted the whole Toys R Us Store and another student, spurred on by that line of thought, said, the whole Walmart store. With that, I led into the story of Achan.

You see, the Israelites had just got done conquering the city of Jericho, in which the Lord told them to spare no one – except for Rahab and her family, burn everything else, except the gold, silver, iron and bronze which would be the Lord’s. I told the students to imagine that they had to go in and destroy any Xbox, Nintendo DSi that they found and burn down ToysRUs and Walmart. Would that be hard to do? Of course. Achan did just that. He stole a beautiful robe from Babylon, some gold and some silver for himself and hid them under his tent. Because of his sin, it cost him his life, his families’ lives, and the lives of 36 innocent Israelite soldiers. Read the story for yourself in Joshua 6 and 7.

Achan’s treasure was worldly possessions. It is easy for us to treasure worldly possessions as well. Many times it feels like we humans would rather pay a tithe to vacations, cars, houses, campers and clothes, than to the Lord. The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it, He owns the cattle on a thousand hills, He doesn’t need our money. He didn’t need Jericho’s wealth either. He does, however, desire our worship and obedience. Offering time is a time of worship to show where our hearts are. Matthew 6:21 says, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Please consider where your heart is today and adjust it accordingly.

2010-05-28T09:00:00.000-07:00

The Wee Little Man

Zacchaeus was a wee little man and a wee little man was he. He climbed up in a Sycamore tree for the Lord he wanted to see. And as the Savior passed that way He looked up in the tree and He said, "Zacchaeus, you come down, for I’m going to your house today.

These are the words to a song about the treasured Bible story found in Luke 19:1-10. I have recently taught this lesson to my 2 - 3 year old class. For you who know the story, the exciting part isn’t just about Jesus going to a tax collector’s home. Starting with verse 5 in Luke 19, Let’s hear the rest of the story…..

When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, "Zacchaeus come down immediately. I must stay at your house today." So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly. All the people saw this and began to mutter, "He has gone to be a guest of a 'sinner.'" But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, "Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount." Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and save the lost.

Zacchaeus is Jewish by birth, but considered a traitor because he and others like him chose to work for Rome as a tax collector. Not just working for Rome, but making themselves rich by cheating their fellow Jews.

I don’t know what it was that made Zacchaeus climb a tree……maybe just the wonder of a celebrity or just tired of being short, but he hung up his pride and he climbed a tree. Jesus saw something in him to want to go to his house. I love Zacchaeus’ response, his willingness to give back. One could say that being in the presence of Jesus most people would feel like they should give, but that is not so for the Rich Young Ruler found just a page before in Luke 18:18-30. Not everyone is compelled to give when they are in the presence of Jesus.

Some might say that they themselves are not rich, they can’t give back as much as Zacchaeus was able to give back. But 2 Corinthians 8:12 says this,

“For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what he does not have.”

I like the way the way a Bible commentary explains this verse, it says “God accepts the will for the deed. He judges not according to what a man has the opportunity to do, but according to what he would do if he had the opportunity.” God judges the heart.

We don’t have to give such a large amount as Zacchaeus did; we just have to give in the same way as Zacchaeus did. Zacchaeus gave what he could when he had the opportunity – what are you going to give when you have the opportunity to give back for God’s kingdom? As you sit in the Lord’s presence, I hope you are compelled to give in the same way as Zacchaeus did.

2010-05-03T10:54:00.001-07:00

The Rock Wall

We had our annual city festival. It is a small deal, but there are several things for the kids to do. It can get costly (it costs $2 just for 1 slide down the big slide). My 7 year old daughter and my 5 year old son decided they wanted to climb the rock wall.

I didn't take time to explain what my son was to expect and I regret it since he had never done it before. I guess I figured that the guys running it would and that he would climb up a little ways and be done.

My daughter has done it before. She looked like a pro!

Anyway....back to my son. He kept going...and going..... I couldn't believe it! Right about there, however, he started crying. He was scared. I think that he didn't know he could come down and so he just kept climbing up.

One of the guys, quickly climbed up there and showed him how to get to the top, ring the buzzer, and helped him down. What an experience for my little guy!

Then my youngest, who is 4 years old, doesn't like big play areas with tunnels and big slides. However, he decided with his brother to go and run through one. He was having a great time until he made it to the top and realized he had to go down a tube slide. He REFUSED! After 5 minutes of crying, I had to have one of the girls in charge go get him and help him down. She just sat him in the slide and made him go down and he did!

It makes me think of the times that we get in a jam and we have to rely on God to help us out. Sometimes the first step is scary. The first leap off the wall is scary until you realize that something is holding you. Remember God is holding you in those tough situations. He never lets go!

2010-01-21T05:47:00.000-08:00

The Carpenters and the Oak Ridge Boys

I have an old soul. I love the Carpenters and the Oak Ridge Boys. When I hear one of their songs - wherever I am- I smile. Why? Well, because my parents use to listen to that music when I was a kid and it brings back good memories and feelings of togetherness. This is more important as I am grown and I don't see my parents as often. Truthfully, there are many more artists and songs that could be put into that category.

For instance, I love hymns. I am not a great singer, but to sit in church service and sing together with other believers certain hymns can bring tears to my eyes. Of course there are great messages in hymns, but I have great memories and feelings that are tied up in these songs. I feel, in some ways, we can lose touch with these memories and feelings in modern times because there are always new worship songs and we soon stop singing "old songs". Not to say that I am against contemporary music, there are many that I love to sing as well.

My main point to this blog is that it is important to be wise to the music that you are listening to as parents, your kids are watching and listening. What music will your kids say that you listened to while they lived with you? Are you setting a good example in this? What music from your past brings a smile to your face?

Just some things that I was thinking about.

2010-01-17T16:56:00.000-08:00

Stretching and Growing

The beginning of December I started a new job. I am continuing to babysit during the day, but now I have become a tutor in the after-school program at my kids' school. Kirk picks up the kids as I go to work. It is somewhat similar to the teacher-aid job that I had before I had kids. I was looking and praying for a way that I could bring some more money into our house since we had some added expenses in the last few months. I applied for a job at a clothing store for holiday hours, I got hit upon to "do" Melaluca, and I tried a Newspaper carrier job - none of which worked out. My youngest son is still at home and I feel very strongly about staying home with him until he goes to school. So far I have been able to, but this fall I was worried I wasn't going to be able to stand by that conviction. I am truly amazed how this job presented itself and how it worked out for my family. It truly is an answer to prayer. Praise the Lord!

It has been 6 years since I have done any work outside of the home and church, and in the process of finding a job and then starting this tutoring job, I must confess that it has stretched me. I feel like my brain has become mush. The things I once knew that are academic need to be dusted off, or have been forgotten, and all the things that I have become an expert on in the past 6 years aren't necessarily needed (i.e. - diaper changing, bowel movements, breast feeding, etc.) I have many feelings of inadequacy and many humbling moments. Like the time I started to misspell a word for a child right in front of a teacher. One thing is for certain, even though I do need to catch up in some ways, I feel like being a mother has enhanced me in working with children in a school setting. If only I had some of those skills when I worked as an aid in the junior high.

I have enjoyed working in the after-school program, but there are some challenges that I need to overcome. So I ask your thoughts and prayers as I continue with this job. With my youngest turning 4 soon, that also means that I am going to have to be looking for a job soon. I have never grown up and decided what I wanted to be when I grew up, so I also ask for your prayers as I need to pursue a career path that will also compliment me as a mother and as a pastor's wife. That is very heavy on my heart. Starting this new job and seeking a career path will be a stretching and growing time for me and I just ask for your prayers.

I hope that this new year has started out well for you, and I pray that no matter where you are, you are seeking God and a relationship with His Son, Jesus. God bless you!

2009-12-31T03:06:00.000-08:00

Sleeping Dogs

Sometimes anger is like a sleeping dog, if you let it lie and go about your life it is easy to not think about it, almost forgetting that it exists. When the details start to arise once again- sometimes years later, anger's ugly head rises and the sleeping dog has awaken. The solution is? To forgive. Forgive? Forgive again, again.

"Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, "Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times? Jesus answered, 'I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times." Matthew 18:21-22

And that is a Rebecca Original, brought to you by SLEEPLESSNESS.
This is my last post in 2009. I have not posted for awhile, hopefully I will be better in 2010.

2009-10-25T12:55:00.000-07:00

Count Your Blessings

Farmers can be rather depressing. I can say that because I grew up in a farming community in Northwest Iowa and my father is a farmer. They really aren't that bad, except they always seemed to be worried. Any conversation that you may have with one would be about something that they are worried about. The weather is too hot, too cold, too wet or too dry. Some machinery is always broken down or some of their animals are sick. I could go on and on about their daily worries.

When Kirk and I started in ministry, we started in a farming community very similar to my hometown. Of course, our church had many families whose livelihoods involved farming. Every year at Thanksgiving time, as many churches do, the church would take up a special Thanksgiving offering. Every year the farmers would start their worrying that the Thanksgiving offering would not amount to much because that year had not been a good year for the farmers. And each year there would be more money in the Thanksgiving offering than the year before.

I could be wrong in my assumptions, but not only do I think that farmers are worriers, but I think that they can be some of the most thankful. They understand that even though they shed blood, sweat, and tears, all of their crops can be ruined in an instant. That they could be up all night with a sick cow and calf and both the cow and calf could be dead by morning. They live with these situations daily. They are constantly reminded that they have little control. It is mentally important for them to be thankful.

Leviticus 7 gives the rules for the Peace Offering. The Peace Offering can be offered to the Lord for Thanksgiving. Even though we do not have to offer sacrifices as the Israelites did in Leviticus, I think that it is appropriate to say that today we too can give our offerings out of our thanksgiving to God. It may be difficult for us to find much to be thankful about. Maybe you have lost a job, or you are sick. Maybe you are having marital problems or you are having difficulty with a rebellious child. I could go on and on about reasons why it is hard to be thankful.
Here are the lyrics to one of my favorite hymns:

When upon life's billows you are tempest-tossed,
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord has done.

Are you ever burdened with a load of care?
Does the cross seem heavy that you are called to bear?
Count you many blessing, every doubt will fly,
And you will keep singing as the days go by.

When you look at other with their lands and gold,
Think that God has promised you His wealth untold;
Count your many blessings - wealth can never buy
Your reward in Heaven, not your home on high.

So, amid the conflict whether great or small,
Do not be discouraged, God is over all;
Count your many blessings, angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your Journey's end.

Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God has done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your many blessings, see what God has done.

(I am sorry if I offended any farmers. I have complete respect and love for the farming way of life.)

2009-10-18T15:47:00.000-07:00

When Did You Learn To Tie Your Shoes?

When I was a kid it was expected for kindergartners to know how to tie their shoes. (It took me until I was in Kindergarten and I think I was the last one to figure it out. I remember getting yelled at by my P.E. teacher for not knowing how to.) It still is a part of the list of what a kindergartner should be able to do and I am sure many do. I am guessing that the more shoes have become tie-less, there are more and more children that don't know how until they are older.

My daughter is one of those children. She is in 2nd grade and just today when she was getting out the tennis shoes (we still are wearing sandals in CA) she asked to learn how to tie. We have shown her before - a long time ago, but because she is older now, she picked it right up. I would work with my 5 year old on the skill except he doesn't own a pair of shoes that need to be tied.....someday.

By the way, the outfit that she is wearing in the picture was just purchased at the thrift store yesterday. I am glad that she still doesn't mind wearing used clothing. And that is the latest news at the Evans' house.

2009-10-03T10:21:00.000-07:00

One T.V. Rule

I have a rule for myself - the importance of one t.v. in the house. May I also say that this isn't my husband's rule. If we could afford it, I am sure that we would have another T.V. in the house. Let me back up - we do have a 2nd t.v. but it is not hooked up for channels. They can watch videos on it and is usually only used when we have a Bible Study and we want the kids to play in their bed rooms.

There are many reasons why it is important to have one T.V. 1) It makes it easier to monitor what the kids are watching. 2) It is important to learn to compromise and share. 3) It brings the family together. Sometimes we sit down and watch a cartoon with the kids, but we might not do that if there was another t.v. to go and watch. And 4) I think that it is helpful in not watching too much t.v.

There are times, like today (Saturday) when I wish that we had another television. Kirk could watch college football all day, and it gets a little old. But I am thankful for our DVR and it causes me to get more done around the house and with the kids. Lately, I have been reading more books. Having only one t.v. is a good discipline that I hope that will continue in the Evans' house. If I have my way, then we will continue the one t.v rule.

2009-09-18T06:58:00.000-07:00

My Piranha Hour

I don't know if you read Max Lucado, I do occasionally. The other day I read about how everyone has a piranha hour. I immediately knew when mine was - as soon as the kids get home from school, Monday through Thursday (thank goodness for the weekend!) There are always papers to look at, things to put where they belong, homework to do, pet chores to do, supper to prepare, the table to set, the meal to clean up, baths to take, and then bedtime - which includes potty, prayers, and a drink. I didn't include breaking up disagreements or taking care of crying children. I also didn't include the fact that I am trying at the moment to potty train a child who doesn't want to potty train. I know that my husband has been at work all day and needs to unwind, but how maddening it can be for him to sit there as I am being attacked by piranhas. Kirk can be sitting on the couch watching T.V. and I am obviously busy, yet the kids still come to me for help finding shoes, finding toys, etc. CRAZINESS! My piranha hour was so exhausting last night that I remember sitting down and watching t.v., but I am unsure how I got into my bed.

Max Lucado was trying to help the reader remember how Jesus handled moments like these - with love. I know that I don't always handle my moments with love. I mean, really, I would be super mom if I told my children a thousand times to put their things away and was loving about it. AND I may not be thinking very loving thoughts about my husband as he sits oblivious to the fact that I am being eaten alive! Obviously I need a new system. I am working on that. One that will help with the love factor that sometimes goes out the front door as the children enter it.

I am being a little dramatic when it comes to my piranha hour, but it can get hectic. You may have one too. When is your piranha hour? Any suggestions to getting mine a little less hectic?

2 Timothy 1:7 "God did not give us a spirit that makes us afraid but a spirit of power and love and self-control."

Have a blessed week!

2009-09-11T15:03:00.000-07:00

Love Your Neighbor As Yourself

My parents get us a Reader's Digest subscription every year. One of the features that I enjoy in each issue is the"Word Power" section. Each issue I try to conquer "Word Power" by selecting the correct meaning of about 15 words. I have yet to get them all correct. Just when I think I know a word, I turn the page and realize that I chose the wrong definition.

That is me with people too. Just when I think I understand how to deal with people, I turn the page and realize I was wrong. Trust me, I get people's definition's wrong all the time! When you are wrong while dealing with people, it can sting a lot more than when you get an answer wrong to a silly quiz.

Jesus said, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and soul and strength and with all your mind and love your neighbor as yourself." Matthew 10:27

Sometimes that is a lot harder than it sounds, but it is a command and I need to continue to strive for it even when I am hurt. Have you been hurt recently? What I have learned in this latest episode is to not take the hurtful words too personally and try to understand that person - what is their definition. Also, praying for that person may be hard, but it is another way to understanding and loving the people that hurt us.

I could just give up on "Word Power," I will probably never get them all right - but I keep trying. It is the same in dealing with people - I can't give up trying to treat others the way I would like to be treated.

2009-08-31T15:35:00.001-07:00

Abortions and the Government Healthcare Plan

As many of you already know, I am pro-life. I have been from the very first time I heard about the topic of abortions. Even though, I have written 2 research papers on the topic when I was younger, it wasn't until much recently that I decided to have an open mind about it. It started last fall when I took a Constitution class and preparing for the Roe vs. Wade discussion. I wanted to look on all sides of the issue and try to see it from another point of view. Since then, I have continued in my research. I am left with an even more conservative view than ever. There has been a time when I allowed for cases where abortion could be warranted. For instance, to save the life of the mother. That couldn't be very many cases could it? But then I am faced with why is an abortion okay even then? Isn't that life still precious? Of course you do all you can to save the mother's life, if the baby's life is lost than it is lost. Death comes to us all. If a baby can't survive out of the womb, than it can't survive, but why does it have to be terminated through abortion? I am sure, that each case has it's own circumstances, but I feel that it is not for us to decide that an unborn baby's life should be terminated at all!

I know the topic of abortion is hard. Some people might think that I am judging them about having an abortion or their pro-choice position. I am not. I am not here to judge. I just want everyone to research this topic and continue to research it. Look at all sides of it. You may change your mind, you may not.

The real reason why I am writing about abortion yet again is because of an email sent to me from American Family Association. The article's title is, "Democrats Guarantee Abortion Coverage in Obamacare." They also show a video of a California Democratic Congresswoman, Zoe Logfren, who admits that abortion will be covered in the bill.

Of course, I wanted to research a little bit more into this because it has been said by many that abortions wouldn't be covered in this bill. According to FactCheck.org, it will be included into the bill. Some Americans maybe okay with it, however, I am not. If you aren't okay with this, then it is very important to talk to your representatives. Another interesting article that I found was at a site called, Newsbusters .

When the Constitution was written, they never mentioned unborn babies. Since they are not mentioned, then they do not qualify as a person and therefore, not protected. Since every born person as an American citizen has the right to privacy, women have the right to abort the fetus. Her body, her right. Now, let's just say that the Writers of the Constitution would have known that this would be an issue, do you think that they would have mentioned it? I think so. Do you think that if the Writers had the technology that we do now, to see the unborn baby in all it's developing stages, that they would have made mention of unborn babies being American citizens? Absolutely, I do. Do you think that the Writers of the Constitution wanted to include African-Americans as citizens? No, but I am glad that now we do. You see, just because the Writers of the Constitution didn't physically write that unborn babies are American Citizens, does that give us the right to terminate their life because it is inconvenient to us? I am not saying this to pass judgment or heap on guilt. I just want to acknowledge it. I don't want to sweep it under the carpet and try forget it. If you want a few more thoughts along this line, go to "What did Roe vs. Wade Really Decide in 1973?"

Which side are you on? Maybe it is a good time to decide.

2009-08-30T00:25:00.000-07:00

Matt Bronleewe

I have gone on a reading rampage. I do that every once in awhile. In a couple of weeks I have read a total of 7 books - fiction, that is. I get lost in the characters and the story line, it is like a vacation. I have done this ever since I can remember. I have to cut myself off, however, because I have no self control. Once I get into a book, I have a hard time putting it down. Being a mother of 3, you can imagine that would not be a good thing. As you may suspect then, my house is in disorder. Leaving children to play, while I am buried in a book can be disastrous. So, I am done reading fiction for the time being, unless you count Junie B. Jones, First Grader books, The Very Hungry Caterpillar book, and other books of that caliber.

Either at Christmas or my birthday -I can't remember, my husband Kirk got me 2 books. When I saw them I just set them aside and thought to myself that my husband just doesn't understand the kind of books that I like to read. However, after my sister-in-law came to visit and she looked through them, like I should have done, we discovered a treasure. Both books were the second in a set, so I had to get the first one from the library. I started with the Raven series that I wrote previously about. I just recently finished reading the other series. The books are written by Matt Bronleewe and are about a rare book collector named August Adams. He is an Indiana Jones type character. Very exciting and I think that you should read them. Maybe my husband gets me after all... you think?

2009-08-21T14:34:00.000-07:00

The King Raven Trilogy

I love to read. I have ever since I can remember. I don't like to read just any book. Usually it needs to be historical with adventure, some fantasy and of course a little romance doesn't hurt. Since having children, reading books is something that I don't do very often. However, when I do, I go on a reading binge. My latest find? Thanks to my sister-in-law and my husband it is "The King Raven Trilogy" by Stephen Lawhead. He takes the story of Robin Hood and reworks it. I truly enjoyed the books and am left hoping that if there ever was a man like Robin Hood, that Lawhead's story is close to the original.

2009-08-20T08:52:00.000-07:00

Crazy Love by Francis Chan

My husband purchased a book called "Crazy Love." I noticed it's cover, but didn't look inside. While I was at CIY this summer, I noticed it was in the selection of books that they were selling. So I became a little more interested in it. When I got home, I browsed through it and decided that I should read it.

One thing this book isn't is "Charismatic." It isn't . It isn't a page turner. I wasn't excited to turn the next page, however, it is a heart pricker. If you have a chance, I recommend this book to you. Let me know what you think. How do you describe your love for God?

"Because when you are wildly in love with someone, it changes everything." - taken from the back of the book's cover.

2009-08-17T09:49:00.000-07:00

Chick Flicks

You know what I mean...movies that really are made for "chicks" - girls. I actually don't watch movies very often. I hardly ever go to the theatre. Usually, the movies I watch are either t.v. programming, or pay-per-view. A few weeks ago Kirk and I decided to "get" a movie - "pay-per-view." Of course, what usually happens, we watched a show that he wanted to watch. You know, a "guy show." It happened to be the latest show that Clint Eastwood was in, maybe, "Grand Turino"? I fell asleep through the middle, but I woke up for the grisly ending. Truth be told, it had a good point, but there was much blood, anger, violence and cussing. So not so much a movie for me. My husband, decided that the next movie that we would watch would be a "chick flick." I smile about this as I am typing. Kirk Evans, watch a chick flick - right! But one evening, we did sit down and we went through all the movies that I was interested in watching. Of course he wasn't interesting in any of them. If he had to be interested he picked the movie, "He's just not that into you."
Interesting concept, but as the movie wore on, this PG-13 movie left me feeling uncomfortable. I don't know if it was the fact that my husband was sitting next to me or what. Maybe I am getting too old, but the suggestions that they make and innuendos were not funny. Of course it wasn't completely bad, but I think we wasted money for this pay-per-view. The movie I really wanted to get was "Confessions of a Shopaholic."
Kirk was positive that he didn't want to see this movie, so I waited until he wasn't around and I purchased it. I think that he may have enjoyed it. So I am recommending it to you. It is not a perfect movie. You can check out what PluggedIn has to say about it. One of the things that I didn't like about the movie is that I would have much rather watched it with another "chick", isn't that what chick flicks are all about anyway?

(A side note: I don't watch movies very often because of the money it costs to purchase them. Most movies, even though they may have a good message, have a lot of garbage. "Garbage in, Garbage out." It is just as well, that I don't see them anyway.)

2009-07-30T11:36:00.000-07:00

MOVE

Last week, I attended a MOVE Conference with 7 of our highschool students. I love, love CIY (MOVE). I figured out that I have attended 17 conferences!(I think. Sometimes years start to run together.) I went without my kids and the ONLY reason that I did was that my parents came from Iowa to watch them. Not only that, my brother Tom and his family came as well. We had the weekend together and then Kirk and I left for CIY's MOVE conference at Biola University. I would love to show you pictures, but I have recently discovered that in the rush of everything, I deleted all the family pictures that I took. I am hoping that my mom and sister-in-law will share!

Being gone at MOVE was the longest that I have ever been away from my children. I have been away from them overnight - and that is it. Even though I about cried on the morning that we left, I really was okay the rest of the week. I am really thankful that I had the week to not be a mom and just be Rebecca again. I read 2 books, I didn't have to clean or cook, and I spent time with my husband. PLUS, there were a few times that I actually became a kid again. It was a blessing.

It is interesting that this summer's VBS was about the story of Exodus, our Sunday School Lessons are on the story of Exodus, and MOVE was about the story of Exodus. Just maybe, there is a lesson that we need to learn. MMMM. I am still reflecting on some of the lessons and I hope to fill you in on more of them later. If you ever get the chance to go to a MOVE conference, even as a sponsor, I recommend that you do it. It can be very challenging, if your heart is in the right place.

Not only was it nice to be away for the week, but it was nice to come home. My kids needed the interaction with the extended family without the parents around. I can see how they have grown and changed. And I think it has made our relationship better all around. Thanks Grandma and Grandpa! You blessed us!

2009-07-11T14:32:00.000-07:00

The Palo Alto

When we went to the beach on Tuesday, we went to Seacliff State Park. Once we got to the beach, we couldn't help but notice a shipwrecked-looking ship attached to the pier. In the above picture you can see it in the distance. I love a good story and I needed to figure out the history of this ship.

The Palo Alto is a concrete ship that was built as a tanker to be used in WWI. It was built by the San Francisco Shipbuilding Company in Oakland, CA for $1,500,000. She was launched on May 19, 1918 - too late to be used in the War and so she just set. She was bought by the Seacliff Amusement Corporation and taken to Seacliff State Beach a few years later. A pier was built leading to the ship and she was fitted as an amusement ship. It had a dance floor, heated swimming pool, and a cafe.

I am sure it was quite a sight to behold and many glamorous people found their way to this ship, but after just 2 seasons, the company went broke because of the Great Depression. That winter, after a big storm, the ship cracked at it's midsection. The ship was stripped of all its finery and sold to the State of California for $1. It became a fishing pier. As the ship deteriorated, she became unsafe and closed to the public. Now, she remains and serves as an artificial reef for marine life.

If you are into humanizing non-living objects like I am, what a sad life for this ship. To only be used for it's intended purpose for a short while, to live a glamorous life for a couple more years and then for the rest of the time not be used at all. I wonder if there are people who feel that way. They have had a couple glamorous years, but the rest of the time they have been used and abused by people and now they feel ugly, harsh and cruel. Fear not! God loves you no matter where you have been. 1 John 4:9-11 says, "In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another."

Obviously, this ship is not human. One day it will all be swept away. It is just a thing. Just think of all the money that went into building this great ship and now look at it. It is not worth anything. Thankfully it is not the same for those who have accepted Jesus as their Savior, we were bought at a price and now we are God's. (1 Corinthians 6:20)

If you are ever at Sea Cliff State Park. Take a look at the ship. Remember the cost.

2009-07-10T07:39:00.000-07:00

The Beach, A Picnic, A Sandcastle, and Sunburns

We have been extra busy the last few weeks, so Kirk decided to take a break and take us to the beach. We went to Sea Cliff, a state park. It was a very enjoyable day. It was sunny, but at first cool enough for me to wear my jacket. As soon as we got there we had our picnic lunch.
Then they started to work on the sand castle. My oldest and my youngest didn't stay at it the whole time.

My youngest got cold.

My daughter loves to look for shells. Notice that she is wearing her sweater with her swimming suit.
It was really easy to hang out at the beach all day! Kirk and the kids also flew a kite and played with a soccer ball. Earlier in the day I put sunscreen on the kids and wiped the excess on my arms, but the weather was cool and we were having so much fun that Kirk and I didn't put sunscreen on ourselves. It was at the end of the day that we realized that we were burned and it wasn't until we got home that we realize how burned we were. I didn't have it as bad because at least I wiped the kids' excess on my arms. Of course Kirk took his shirt off, so his whole torso is red - poor guy. We are just now feeling better. We knew better this time, but next time we will for sure not underestimate the sun. Other than the burn, we had a great day at the beach!

2009-07-09T07:45:00.000-07:00

The 4th!

We went from the busy-ness of VBS to the busy-ness of moving the church nursery and the fireworks booth. Last week was a little stressful on my husband and I, but it is over and now we are moving on to new and better stresses! Kirk and I didn't celebrate the 4th until the 5th and the 6th because we worked in the fireworks booth - one of our main fundraisers for our youth group. On the 5th, our church had a big circle of celebration and on the 6th, we as a family did some fireworks. All in all, we had a great weekend.
This is the caramel apple pie that I entered into the auction. It went for $40!

We sold fireworks at the circle of celebration and as a joke someone put this sign on my kids.

The kids enjoyed having their bikes there to ride around.

What is it about dunking the pastor? The VBS kids got to dunk Kirk because they raised $1000 for the weekly mission. Steve also took his turn in the dunk tank. I think he got the raw end of the deal because the breeze came up and the sun went down and it got cool.

The fireworks show!
Hundreds of dollars gone in an instant.
I hope you had a happy fourth as well!

2009-07-07T06:20:00.000-07:00

We Had Fun At Crocodile Dock VBS!

Kirk is great at doing the back drop for VBS. Here he is fishing off of the dock!

This is the crocodile puppet I made. I couldn't have done it without my friend Paula. She showed me how to build it. She was the mastermind of it. She built one for the preschool VBS, so we did ours together.

Every year I think that I like that year's VBS the best, but I really liked this year's VBS. The lessons were good, although I had some technical difficulty. (We liked the Tuesday's lesson about the plagues, Wednesday's lesson about the Passover made for a lot of questions for parents on the way home, and Friday's lesson about the crossing of the Red Sea was easy and fun) Of course the songs were fun.

2009-07-01T21:07:00.000-07:00

Birthdays Part 2

This is the cake that I made for my middle child. He just turned 5. I drove all over to find this pan, so I don't know if it was worth it, but he was impressed.

My daughter just turned 7. She wanted a High School Musical cake and since they don't make pans for that, I came up with this on my own. A new thing I tried was a new cake recipe - a chocolate cake. The Car cake was yellow and the HSM cake was chocolate. They are both box cakes, but I add other ingredients to make them firmer and easier to work with. They were both yummy. My next cake I hope to add filling! I also hope that I can take a cake decorating class sometime before the next birthday. I have a lot to learn.

I can't believe that they are 5 an 7! We had some friends from New Zealand that made the birthday party extra special! The Brooks family!

2009-06-30T08:31:00.000-07:00

Birthdays Part 1

The month of June holds my 2 oldest children's birthdays. Grandma and Grandpa Steele sent presents in the mail. You may notice that my youngest son also got a present - his birthday was in February, but I never told Grandma what to get him, so he never got a present from them. Grandma and Grandpa sent him a present with the other kids' presents. It was just as well, since he doesn't understand birthdays yet and he was feeling a little left out.

2009-06-28T21:02:00.000-07:00

T-Ball

We put the 2 oldest kids in non-competitive t-ball. It is through a local church. I am really pleased with it. Every Tuesday they have practice and every Saturday morning, they play a game amongst themselves. It has been really fun. My daughter has shown some skills in catching and throwing. My son is a real go-getter. He is always running after the ball.

2009-06-26T12:22:00.000-07:00

Last Days of School

My daughter finished her first grade year of school a few weeks ago. Before school ended, she was a giraffe in a school play - she was not not too thrilled about that.

This is her first day of school compared to her last day.

She got the Responsible Citizen Award.

She loves to climb on the monkey bars.

Thus the end of first grade. August will come before we know it and we will have a 2nd grader and a Kindergartner. Hope you are having a happy summer!

2009-06-09T08:40:00.000-07:00

Communion Devotion - "The Door of Humility"

It was my turn to do a communion devotion last Sunday. I really struggled with some different thoughts going through my mind, and I was not feeling the ambition to study them. I was praying about my dilemma one night and all of a sudden an idea popped into my head. It was a post that my dad wrote on his blog, Silver Bullets, called "Bethlehem in Prophecy." It wasn't the fact that the post was about prophecy, it was his picture and explanation about the Church of the Nativity. I wasn't for sure how it was all going to come together, but I was surprised how it did.

When God works in the lives of others - even in small ways like writing a communion devotion, I am not surprised. I know God works that way, but when it happens in my life - it is surprising and humbling. Do you know what I mean? I know that God popped everything in my head, so I could write this communion devotion. Now, that is a lot of pressure. This devotion better be good, right? I guess you will just have to read it and decide for yourself. It gave me something to think about at communion time and maybe that is enough.

In Bethlehem today, there is a church called, "The Church of the Nativity." This church is the traditional site of the birth of Jesus. The main door into this church is so short that even a short person has to bend over to enter. The door is called, "The Door of Humility." Bible commentator, William Barclay, said this of the door, "There is something beautiful in the symbolism that the church where the cave is has a door so low that all must stoop to enter. It is supremely fitting that every man should approach the infant Jesus on his knees."

Humility - Jesus had it. It is the theme that runs through the birth, the life, and the death of Jesus. Philippians 2:5-11 says, "Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death - even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."

Communion time gives us the chance to reflect on Jesus' humility and remind us of the necessity of our own humility. As we take the juice and bread that represents Jesus' blood that was shed and His body that was broken, may we humbly remember that Jesus made himself nothing so that He could die on the cross for our sins, and so that we can live together with Him. It is supremely fitting, for us to approach our Lord, the risen Savior, on our knees.

2009-05-19T07:22:00.000-07:00

My Haircut

I don't get haircuts very often. I haven't found a place that I love yet. I have a friend that cuts hair, but our schedules don't always coincide. So I just keep putting off getting my hair cut. I can't even tell you the last time I had gotten it cut! I wanted to get my haircut at Easter and that didn't happen. Then came Mother's Day and it still hadn't happened. My hair was so bad that I was always wearing it in a pony tail. This past Saturday, I had my 3 kids plus 3 more kids for most of the day. Then I took my 3 kids sandal shopping - it was not fun. After we got home from shopping, I was very stressed from the day's events. I decided that I didn't care who cut my hair, I was going to get a much needed hair cut. Out I went. The first place I went was closed for the evening. I had a feeling that I was going to find that most places were going to be closed, so I just started praying. Many people would think that I am silly for praying for a haircut, but for most of my life, I have found myself praying when I am unsure about the situation, no matter how trivial it seemed. I ended up spotting a place and when I pulled into the parking lot, it was unclear whether it was opened or not. The sign had some numbers missing. There was an sign that said "open". The lights were on, but I couldn't see any people. I just decided to try the door anyway and lo and behold it was open! I walked in and there was a lady cutting a guy's hair, although she looked confused when I asked for a haircut. She had me sit down while I waited for her to finish. When it was my turn, she was very nice and did my hair just the way I wanted it. During the course of the haircut, after talking about our families and so on, I find out that they were suppose to close at 6:00 and here it was almost 9:00! Crazy! I was shocked! I was still in shock when I paid, that I didn't mention that I wanted to add a tip to my charge and I forgot to ask her name. I had been thinking about her all weekend after that and as much as it is out of my comfort zone to do this, I wrote a thank you note with a tip and dropped it off at the hair dresser's. She wasn't there, so I hope she gets it. Getting my hair cut may have been a trivial thing, but it was definitely a blessing!

2009-05-11T08:43:00.001-07:00

Mother's Day

For the last 3 years, Kirk has been making me a Mother's Day meal. He will find a recipe and take the time to go to the grocery store and make the marinade from scratch. It is usually something that I wouldn't make and it is always a treat. This year, Kirk made Salmon with honey-mustard sauce, coleslaw, and an ice-cream stuffed orang e. It was all very tasty! There was another fish that Kirk made with a citrus marinade, but he couldn't remember the name. Click on the links and it will take you to the recipe.

And here are my kids!

It was nice to sit and enjoy my new patio.
I hope you had a beautiful Mother's Day!

2009-05-02T08:42:00.001-07:00

Easter Sunday

I already had something for my youngest to wear for Easter, but I found these shirts and ties on sale at JCPenney and I couldn't resist. I kept looking for a dress for my daughter, but the cheapest I could find was a dress for $18-$20 and then I found one for $12 at Costco. So I was pleased with the kids' outfits. Why is it so important to dress up at Easter? I don't know but I can't help myself.

The Marshalls came for church service. The baby in the picture is theirs. I was working in the nursery and he came to visit. I couldn't keep him happy, so his daddy had to come and help. Then we went home and had Easter dinner together. It was a nice day to celebrate our Lord's Resurrection with our friends.

Grandma Helen sent stuff for the kids' baskets, but I added to it. It is funny, though, my mom maybe once got us stuff for Easter. I never got an "Easter basket." How times change! I harbor no bad feelings, though.

Also, notice our backyard. Kirk and I worked most of the day Friday to get grass in the backyard. It was nice to take pictures on green grass! Kirk has been working hard to get our backyard done! He has been putting his flair on the backyard - he definitely is artistic! You need to come and visit soon and see it for yourself.

2009-04-30T08:23:00.001-07:00

The Easter Egg Hunt

As you can see, my youngest child didn't like the Easter bunny. It was a nice day and the kids got just the right amount of eggs. Not too many, not too few. The Marshalls came and their baby even picked up some eggs. He is getting so big!

2009-04-22T09:10:00.000-07:00

Pictures for Grandma Helen

I was afraid that we were going to run out of time to dye the eggs, so we did it first thing Saturday morning.

Grandma got the boys a Race Car egg kit and she got my daughter a Princess egg kit.

Thank you Grandma!

2009-04-20T08:34:00.000-07:00

Our Backyard

We have been busy working on the backyard. I hope that we can have it finished by Mother's Day. Easter weekend, Kirk laid sod (I helped). So now we have green grass!

He also ordered this stone for our patio. I think we both have wished that we hadn't gotten it. It is going to be a big project, but hopefully we will be happy with the finished project. We have been working so much in the backyard that I still don't have any blinds/curtains up in the bedrooms. I need to figure that out, but that is not my gift. I don't want to spend too much money, but I want them to look nice. Anyway, we are about ready for company, when are you coming to visit?

2009-04-18T08:11:00.000-07:00

Ant Bites and A School Project

At the end of last month we did mulching at the church and the kids got into some red ants. One week later, my 3 year old's bites flared up. This picture doesn't do them justice. It kind of scared me. I did several things - I gave him some Benedryl and I put baking soda paste on them. I did the Benedryl thing once a day for several days. Now, about 2 and half weeks after he was bitten, the bites are finally almost gone.

My daughter had a landform project due. It had to be a landform in California. She chose Lake Alpine. The teachers gave us about 2 months to do this project at home - there was also a journal involved. In true Rebecca form, we waited until the last minute. One Tuesday evening a friend called me and asked me how I was doing the project with my daughter and I said, "When is that due?" And my friend said, "This Friday." So it was a rush to get it all done. Hopefully we won't have any more projects this year. However, next year, with my son in Kindegarten, I will have to get 2 projects done. I wonder if parent's should get graded as well.

2009-04-13T11:26:00.000-07:00

This is the sign that is on my daughter's bedroom door.
"Keep out of my bedroom. Please stay out."
She is learning to have boundaries.
Too bad her brothers don't know how to read!
I would love to have a place that I could tell everyone to keep out.

2009-04-09T09:48:00.000-07:00

Sex Begins in the Kitchen

I am in the middle of this book written by Dr. Kevin Leman. What I like about this book is that it isn't a book that you have to read with your spouse, like so many marriage enrichment books seem to be. I can read this by myself. It is unlikely that my spouse will even try to read this book. I know this because he has yet to read any of the other books that we have. He would score major points if he did read it, however, he already scored a little by saying that he would be interested in reading it. Just saying that he is interested is a good start. I hate to say this, but the title may be the only reason why he is interested in reading it. Thank you Dr. Leman.

I want to recommend this book to all of you who are married, whether you have been married for a few months or for many years. Your spouse is valuable. Remember when you were first dating or first married - that person was so special to you. Sometimes those feelings of specialness disappear because of curve balls that come at you through your life.

If you are not happy with the state of your marriage, now is the time to do something about it. Spring is the perfect time to rekindle this love. Just as in spring when everything is coming back to life after the winter months, so can the love that you feel for your spouse.

In the book, Dr. Leman says, "If you want to change somebody else's behavior, the best thing you can do is change your own behavior first." Remember, that person that is your spouse might not be as special to you as he/she once was, BUT he/she is special to God. They have value! That is one important reason to work at learning what makes your spouse so special, AGAIN!

I want to encourage you to keep working on your marriage, you will be blessed if you do!

2009-03-31T12:54:00.000-07:00

March Happenings

My daughter took a cheernastics class.

Getting ice cream from the ice-cream man.

Taking her leprechaun trap to school. Will she catch one?............

Yes! She did!

She lost her 5th tooth. This time the tooth fairy didn't forget, except she had a hard time scaling the castle bed to exchange the money for the tooth.

Putting in a sprinkler system.

Putting in a sidewalk.

Building a retaining wall/raised flower bed.

Our back yard is like a huge sand box. The kids have been playing in the dirt......

jumping off the mound........

and playing in the mud. (Biscuit tripped on the sprinkler system while Kirk was away and loosened something. I thought I got it fixed, but later that evening I looked out the back to find a flooded back yard.)

Isn't he sweet? He is getting his first tooth.

Sunday morning, Lance asked us to go out to eat with them after church. We ended up also eating with the Guerinos as well. Thanks Lance for inviting us out! Aren't Kim and Jude cute?

We went to church to clean up the garden plot that we are in charge of.

My oldest raking.

My middle child mulching.

My oldest steering the tractor.

My youngest steering.

My middle steering.

Playing on the mountain of mulch. Unfortunately, My oldest and youngest got into some red ants on that mountain and they got bit. Fortunately, they didn't have a bad reaction to the bites.

My youngest helping to put the tools away.

Every year, I try to take some pictures of the kids in the flowers.

I love this one!

I hope that you are all enjoying your spring!

2009-03-24T16:56:00.000-07:00

Being a Mother with God's Peace

My oldest child had a complicated birth and had to spend extra days in the hospital. Not only did I have to deal with that she was a baby and I didn't know much about babies, but that we almost lost her and now I was entrusted with her care. I did have some anxious moments. I would have dreams that I had lost her and I would wake up anxiously looking for her in the sheets of the bed only to remember that she was asleep in the bassinet right next to me.

I did grow comfortable in my role as a mommy and I do enjoy it. I would have several more kids if all the conditions would be right. Every once in awhile, however, a moment of panic will hit me and all I can do is pray about it. I am in charge of these 3 children's well-being. Wow! I know that I am only human and that I can make mistakes. These 3 children depend on me to take care of them. What if I make the wrong choice. Not only do I have the feeling of responsibility for these children, but I LOVE them. I love their faces, their soft cheeks, their laughter, their kisses. If I would lose one or make the wrong choice for them, oh man, I don't know what I would do? I am getting teary-eyed just thinking about it. That's when I just have to pray. I usually pray for strength and wisdom. Now, I think I am going to start to pray for peace.

I was recently reminded of the story of Horatio Gates Spafford. I had heard the story before but on Sunday when I heard it in the sermon, I couldn't help but to tear up. This man had been financially ruined by Chicago's Great Fire of 1871. About that same time his 1 son had died. Then in 1873, he and his family (his wife and 4 daughters), were to go on a trip to England to join Dwight Moody on an evangelistic crusade. Horatio was detained on business. His family went on without him, but he planned to catch up to them later. The ship that his family was sailing on collided with another ship and it sank. Only his wife survived. This man went on to write the hymn called "Peace Like a River." The chorus goes like this, "When peace like a river, attendeth my way. When sorrows like sea billows roll; whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say, it is well, it is well with my soul." This story is the reason why I need to pray for peace as a mother. This man had been through tragedy, yet He shows us God's peace. My prayer is that whatever happens that I can be a mother that has God's peace.

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law." Galatians 5:22-23

2009-03-16T14:52:00.000-07:00

Praying God's Word: Overcoming Food-Related Strongholds

Food - I love it. I have never been super thin. It seems like I have always been the average weight for my age. (However that has changed.) I really was never concerned about my weight, therefore I have never been too concerned about what I eat. I just eat. If I am going to have a slice of apple pie with ice-cream for breakfast or lunch - what is the big deal? AND who said that I couldn't eat half of that pan of brownies that I just made? AND didn't it make me feel good to have the Cold Stone ice cream at 10:00 at night? Do you see what I am doing to myself? Food and I do not have a good relationship. All things are good in moderation and although I am not gorging myself everyday, or most days for that matter, I need a little self-control. I am sure that I am not alone in this. We hear on the news all the time how Americans are obese, choosing poor foods and not exercising enough. Eating is not the only "food-related" stronghold, but not-eating or purging the food that is eaten. I think that you can agree with me that many of us do not have a healthy relationship with our food.

Well, here is the real kicker. It is not so much as our relationship with food, but our relationship with our Lord, Jesus Christ. Beth wrote a great chapter and I encourage you to read it. She ends it by talking about First Place, a Christ-Centered Health Program. If you are struggling with the way you view food, maybe it would benefit you to check out First Place.

Here is one of the Scripture prayers from the chapter:
"Everything is permissible for me - but not everything is beneficial. Everything is permissible for me but I desire not to be mastered by anything. (1 Cor. 6:12) Lord God help me to recognize and discern what is not beneficial for me. Help me see that authentic liberty is being free to do certain things and free not to do others."

2009-03-12T08:25:00.001-07:00

A Realization about Me

A few years ago when I was watching Dr. Phil quite a bit, he said something shocking. He basically said that when someone is late, they are self-centered. What? Me? Self-centered? Truthfully, I could see his point. When people are late, they have just been focusing on themselves. IN MY CASE, however, I could not see how that was always true. Well, recently, I have been going through a period where I continue to find myself being late. I seem to go through stages, sometimes I am late and sometimes I am on time. This idea of Dr. Phil's got stuck back into my mind. Self-centeredness. Whoa! To admit that I am self-centered is a big pill to swallow. As I was thinking on this, I realized why I do run late most of the time. I usually have a list of things to get done and I have not allotted myself enough time. I think that I should be able to get them all done. So I hurry from one thing to another. It is an adrenaline rush! Sometimes I get it all done with room to spare, but other times it makes me late. I love that feeling of when I beat the clock and it gives me a rush. Do you understand what I am saying? Have you been there? It is done out of being self-centered - I am thinking about me and what I need to get done, not about how I am affecting someone else when I am late. Just saying that I was self-centered just made me feel guilty, and I continued to be late. Now that I realized that I am addicted to the rush, I can focus on how I can change that. I might need an intervention. What do you think?

By the way, I haven't stopped reading Beth Moore's book, but I got a little bogged down. Hopefully I can get caught up soon. Love to all.

2009-03-03T08:09:00.000-08:00

Catching Up: January and February

When I started this blog, it was just a way to get ideas. I continued it so I could stay connected to those loved ones that I don't see very often. Lately it seems that I have been blogging on what I am reading about and I forget to update my friends and family. So here it is.....

In January, after we got back from our trip to the Midwest, we started painting.

Our friends, the Marshalls, came over to see us.

Two kitties adopted us. Those cute faces are deceiving however, they had ringworm and they still are in our garage until further notice. I took them to the vet for the ringworm and the visit cost me $200. Plus, I still need to get them fixed.

My daughter's science experiment - about water density.

February
My youngest son's 3rd birthday. We were so busy around that time that we just did a family celebration. I made a banana cake and it was yummy. The recipe is on my cooking blog.

We are getting Parker a twin mattress. So I needed to get him big boy sheets and comforter.

The church gave us a housewarming. I was surprised at the number of people that came and it was a blessing. This is the pastor's wife and a friend.

Our backyard is unfinished. Kirk, the handyman, decided to till it all up. There were a lot of weeds back there.

Then we decided to level it out. It has a big slope. Let me tell you that it is a big job.

I wanted to throw a party for my youngest son, so when a Wednesday evening opened up, I decided to invite a few friends over. I worked all day on Wednesday to make this cake. I was a little stressed over it, but he liked it. I have to keep telling myself that is what matters.

My sweetheart!

I am glad that it worked out that our friends could come over. It was perfect!

There is little Marshall! He is 7 months and crawling.

Kirk and I also celebrated our birthdays this month. I didn't take pictures, but for my birthday, we planted flowers in the front flower bed. I will try to take pictures of it next month. Kirk and I finally went out for our birthdays last Monday to Red Lobster and no kids. I guess the older we get, birthdays aren't as important. At my son's party last week, my friends also gave me some presents - Kim gave me the BBC's Pride and Prejudice with Colin Firth. No kidding - I watched it the next day! My friend Paula gave me a pedometer. I have been counting my steps ever since. Those were great presents! Thank you! Last weekend, Kirk flew back to Iowa to officiate a wedding of one of the kids in our previous youth group. Congrats Cody!

I love you all and have a blessed March. Don't forget to spring forward this weekend!

2009-02-27T13:39:00.000-08:00

Praying God's Word: Overcoming Addiction

I am about half way done with the book by Beth Moore. I like what Beth says at the beginning of the addiction chapter - "Addiction is one of the cruelest of all yokes because it deceives us unmercifully and ruthlessly. It comes to us like a friend, promising to bring comfort. It kisses us on the cheek like Judas, stealing from our treasury, then rents us for a cheap fee to the opposition." I like that description and chances are you know what Beth is talking about. You, in fact, probably have an addiction. Consider it. Do you have something in your life that is promising comfort, but is stealing from your relationship with God? Do you have something that you can't stop doing, but is not God- honoring?

Oh Lord, You have searched me and You know me. You know when I sit and when I rise. You perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; You are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue, You know it completely. You hem me in - behind and before; You have laid your hand upon me. I do not need to feel shame or fear in Your intimate knowledge of every detail of my life because Your Word says that Your knowledge of me is wonderful! Thank You, Father! (Ps. 139:1-6)

Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. (Ps. 139:23-24)

God's Blessings to you!

2009-02-24T08:11:00.000-08:00

My Handbag

I was tagged by no one, however, a friend posted this on her blog and I thought it would be funny to see what is in my handbag. I am not tagging anyone either, since I follow a lot of guys' blogs and they don't have handbags.

Here's the rules:
1. Post a picture of whatever bag you are wearing today - not last weekend when you and your hubby went out to that fabulous restaurant. No cheating!!!
2. Tell us how much it cost. This is a no-judgment zone -- there will be no ridiculing or eye rolling here. And, if there is a story to go along with how you obtained it, I'd love to hear it.
3. Now tag some fellow bloggers and link back to this post so people know why you are posting pictures of your bag.
I got this purse from my mother 5 years ago. I actually stole it from her, she may say that she gave it to me. We were in the process of moving and I noticed her purse and told her. I may have even said that I would like it and I don't remember all the details, but she gave it to me. (Mom, do you remember?) At the time, I was using my diaper bag as a purse, so I didn't even need a purse. In fact, until now, I have rarely used my purse. Everywhere I went, the kids went. In fact, I only have one other handbag and it was one that a friend made for me. It is not practical, so I rarely use it. So my purse cost me nothing. It is old and it is brown. What does that say about me?

Even though the rules don't mention anything about the contents of the purse, my friend Jen did, so I thought I should as well. I grouped them in 3 categories.
This is stuff that I actually put in there that should be in there. My wallet. Pens and Pencils. A pull-up. (Instead of having a diaper bag for a purse, now my purse is a diaper bag.) Toys. My daughter's hair-clips. Loose change. (I had no idea that all that change was in there.) A ring that I bent 4 years ago. I put it in there in hopes that I will remember to take it to the jewelry store - I haven't yet.

This is stuff that I need to take to the church. For one reason or another, we start collecting church property in our house. When I find it, I put it in my purse to take back. Sometimes it takes awhile before it actually makes it to the place it belongs. I thought the scissors might make a good weapon if I was attacked.

This is the trash. Old candy. A craft that fell apart in my purse. A business card. Receipts. Old grocery list. A paper clip. Used tissues. A bolt and a washer. (I am not for sure how those got in there.)

What a silly thing to blog about. What silly things to have in my purse. Needless to say, for today, my purse is now cleaned out and in good order.

2009-02-20T08:27:00.001-08:00

Praying God's Word: Overcoming Feelings of Rejection

Everyone has been rejected somehow. From breaking up a relationship, losing a job, not getting chosen, or being rejected for what you believe might be some common ways of rejection. For the Christian, it is important to not get hung up on feelings of rejection. When we are scared to put ourselves out there, whether it is a new relationship or getting up on stage to present something, we might be losing out on a blessing or a way to share Jesus. Is there something that you are scared to do? I am not admitting to anything, but the next time I start to pull away from something because I am scared, I am going to think about this prayer....

You, Lord, are my shepherd; I shall not be in want. You make me lie down in green pastures; you lead me beside quiet waters; You restore my soul. You guide me in paths of righteousness for Your name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. (Psalm 23:1-6)

God bless you this week!

2009-02-16T04:09:00.000-08:00

The Last Sin Eater

I love to read about history. It doesn't matter if it is a biography or historical fiction, as long as it is in story form, I love it!. I have read a historical fiction called, "The Last Sin Eater." It is written by Francine Rivers and it has been made into a movie. You may have heard of it. The idea of a sin eater is very intriguing to me.

The term "sin eater" refers to "a person, through ritual means, who would take on by the means of food or drink, the sins of a deceased person, thus absolving his or her soul and allowing that person to rest in peace," according to the Wikipedia Encyclopedia. This practice has been found in English and Scottish heritages.

These days, of course, this tradition seems to be non-existent, but I have to wonder how it ever came about in the first place? Only God knows how it ever got started because no one would talk about the sin eater unless someone had died and then it was all very secretive. That is how sin grows - in the hiding of it. There is some idea that sin eating came about through the twisting of the command of using a scapegoat found in Leviticus.

This is just another example of human weakness. Whether it was their need for control or their own ignorance, no one can eat a piece of bread and drink the wine place on the chest of the deceased and be able to take on their sins. I can't help but feel sorry for those poor souls who didn't have the hope of the Savior.

To be a sin eater would be worse. To be scorned by everyone and yet this sin eater had to symbolically take on the sins of the whole community. How burdened that person must have felt....How hopeless, full of sin.

I do know Someone who took on all my sins, all your sins, all of the sins of everyone in your city, your state, in the country, and in the world. Not just everyone who is living now, but whoever has lived and all those who will live in the future. I hope you know Him too, His name is Jesus! Again God has amazed me. I cannot fathom what Jesus did for us. I cannot fathom God's love for us - for me!

2 Corinthians 5:21 says, " God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God."

Please remember what was done for you. Anyone can accept the gift of salvation. Jesus died on the cross for our sins and we can live forever with Him!

2009-02-12T09:04:00.000-08:00

Praying God's Word: Overcoming Feeling Unloved

There are times in my life that I struggle with love. Sometimes I put the love from my husband so high on a pedestal that when he disappoints me, I feel so let down. I think that we humans do that to often. Replacing God's love for the love from others. They are going to fail. Only God's love is constant.

Humans, me included, sometimes feel unlovable. How can anyone love us, including God? A quote from Beth Moore in the book says, "What heartbreak we must bring to God when we continue to disbelieve His love. What more could He have said? What more could He have done? Believe even when you do not feel. Know even when you do not see. He gave the life of His Son to demonstrate His love. The time has come to believe."

The scripture prayer I chose from the chapter is this:
Lord God, help me to trust in Your unfailing love; cause my heart to rejoice in Your salvation. Help me to sing to You, Lord, for You have been good to me! (Psalm 13:5-6)

How fitting this chapter was since this weekend is Valentines weekend! This Saturday, bask in the glow of God's love. God loves you! God bless you this week!

2009-02-09T10:05:00.001-08:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

2009-02-04T08:45:00.000-08:00

Praying God's Word: Overcoming Deception

Doesn't it make sense that deception is the glue that holds all our sins together? Sometimes we knowingly sin, but we deceive our self by making excuses for our actions. Beth Moore lists some lies that we may tell ourselves when we are covering up a sin. A few of the ones that stuck out to me are: "I can't help the mess I am in. I am caught and there is nothing I can do about it." "This isn't doing me any harm. I can handle it." "Everyone thinks these thoughts most of the time. I'm only human."

Have you ever given an excuse for a behavior? I have. I can think of one right now. Is there something that you have ever kept secret? Is there something that you are ashamed of? Is there something that you have used deception to cover up? Is there something that you have distorted scripture to make okay?

"Father, this moment I am choosing the way of truth. I want to set my heart on Your laws. (Psalm 119:30) Help me choose the way of truth the rest of my days.

Have a blessed week!

2009-01-29T08:55:00.000-08:00

Praying God's Word - Overcoming Pride

As I have mentioned before, I didn't buy this book because of the stumbling blocks issue, I bought it because it was about praying God's Word. This last chapter on overcoming pride was a heart pricker. I am actually going to quote a paragraph from the book.

"In some ways, Christians have to be more alert to pride than anyone. If we don't presently have an issue that is actively humbling us, we veer with disturbing velocity toward arrogance and self righteousness. We are wise to remember that Christ never resisted the repentant sinner. He resisted the religious proud and the Pharisaic. Remember, pride wears many masks. I once spoke on pride only to have someone to remark afterward that she had far too little self esteem to have pride. Pride is not the opposite of low self-esteem. Pride is the opposite of humility. We can have a serious pride problem that masquerades as low self-esteem. Pride is self-absorption whether we're absorbed with how miserable we are or how wonderful we are. We are wise to be on the constant lookout for pride in our lives. I believe we can safely say that if we're not deliberately taking measures to combat pride, it's probably doing something to combat humility." - Beth Moore

That can be me at times.

Father, You have told me to do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit but in humility consider others better than myself. ( Phil. 2:3) Right this moment I confess my selfish ambition and vain conceit to you. Forgive me for so often considering myself better than others. Help me to look not only to my own interests but also to the interests of others. Please help me have an attitude the same as that of Christ Jesus. (Phil 2:4-5)

Have a blessed week!

2009-01-28T08:27:00.001-08:00

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

2009-01-21T08:25:00.000-08:00

We Moved!

During the busiest time of the year, we bought a house and moved just a little ways from where we were already living. I didn't talk much about it for many reasons, but mostly because I wasn't ready to move. It is not that I liked the house we were renting- it had pink carpet, the kitchen floor as well as the windows needed to be replaced. (We did like having a pool and we were just getting to know our neighbors.) Although the housing market is low, I was (and still am) a little nervous in this time of economic crisis. My husband has been looking for houses all year and I can not tell you how many times we put an offer on a house and we would be outbid by a cash offer or a higher offer. I was ready to be done with it for awhile and then my husband talked me into one more and of course it is the one we are now living in.

Not only did I feel the strain from all the economic crisis that was going on around us, but we thought that we could get moved in before we left on our big 3 week vacation back to the Midwest. Of course it was the Christmas season and life is always busy around Christmas, but it is our church's big live nativity production - 6 nights of 3 mile walking as tour leaders. Not only were we tour leaders, getting home about 11:00 each night, I also was finishing up my college class and I had a final to prepare for. (By the way, I got an A in the class!) Not only that, it was drawing closer to the time that we had to be out of the house we were renting and we still had not closed on our house. That is a long story that I am not going into, but by Friday morning of the day that we were suppose to be out of our house (the property management wouldn't give us an extension) all the paper work on the house we were buying still hadn't closed because of some computer difficulty. I have to tell you that I felt like crying, we were homeless. No place to go.

There are too many details to tell here, but it worked out and we were able to call up some church friends so that we were moved out of our house in about 3 hours. In fact we all were able to go to church that night to help at the live nativity. I am always amazed at how blessed we are and at how willing our church friends are at helping even at short notice. God bless them!

We moved on a Friday and we left for Omaha the next Tuesday! I hurriedly unpacked so that I could pack for our trip. Amazingly, I packed all that we needed for 5 people in 2 checked bags. We carried on a duffel, a big back back and a child sized back pack. What a rush!

I am going to post some pictures of our trip another day and what a good time we had. I will also try to scare up some pictures of the house, but I was so busy packing, moving, unpacking, and then packing again, that I don't have many pictures. I am finally settling into the house more and remembering where I put everything. I am thankful for the blessing of the new house and I am prayerful that it will continue to be a blessing as well. Thank you to those of you who helped and thank you to those of you who prayed for us.

2009-01-21T08:10:00.000-08:00

Praying God's Word (Overcoming Unbelief)

For those of you who don't know, I am reading "Praying God's Word" by Beth Moore. When she is talking about unbelief, it isn't necessarily not believing in God or that Jesus is the Son of God, but that sometimes our faith is small. She lists a bunch of example scripture prayers, but I am going to just focus on one.

Father, I desire to fix my eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of my faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:2)

Have a blessed week!

2009-01-13T14:00:00.000-08:00

Praying God's Word and the New Year!

I was able to share my testimony on Saturday with the women at church. Maybe I will post it someday, but it was all handwritten because our computer wasn't up and and running until the weekend. Who knows when or if I will type it up. I did share how much reading through the Bible last year changed my life and that I would be reading a new book at the start of this year called, "Breaking Free from Spiritual Strongholds Praying God's Word" by Beth Moore. I didn't realize that part of the title said "Breaking Free from Spiritual Strongholds" I was just interested in the idea of praying scripture. That being said, I think that this book will give me a lot to think about. I hope that if you read this book as well, that you will share with me what you are reading and discovering as you pray with scripture.

I have already read the introduction and chapter 1, "Overcoming Idolatry." In the introduction, Beth discusses how in Ephesians 6:10-18, where Paul is talking about the armor of God, the only weapon described is the Word of God. I love what it says in Hebrews 4:12 about the word of God, "For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." Scripture is God's word. Then Beth goes on to say that Ephesians 6:18 says to, "Pray in the Spirit on all occasions..." Thus she links the Word of God and praying.

I don't want praying scripture to have the illusion that it is more spiritual or give it a feeling like it is a magical spell. Just because you recite scripture doesn't mean it will happen, but I want to do this in order to make praying more reverent and more creative. I think that you will see what I mean as I continue through the book.

I am not for sure how to do each chapter, but for the moment I am going to pick one of the sample prayers listed in the book for that chapter that means the most to me.

"My Lord, where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, You are there; if I make my bed in the depths, You are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there Your hand will guide me, Your right hand will hold me fast." (Psalm 139:7-10)

God bless you this week!

2008-12-31T19:12:00.000-08:00

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!

2008-12-23T08:46:00.000-08:00

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.

2008-12-10T09:11:00.001-08:00

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.

2008-12-07T18:33:00.000-08:00

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.

2008-12-01T08:17:00.000-08:00

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!

2008-11-27T11:10:00.000-08:00

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?)

2008-11-26T08:15:00.000-08:00

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....

2008-11-24T07:53:00.000-08:00

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.

2008-11-17T08:23:00.000-08:00

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!

2008-11-16T16:42:00.000-08:00

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!

2008-11-12T14:16:00.000-08:00

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.

2008-11-10T07:58:00.000-08:00

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.

2008-11-03T11:11:00.000-08:00

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!

2008-11-01T15:52:00.000-07:00

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.

2008-10-29T08:29:00.001-07:00

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!

2008-10-27T09:08:00.000-07:00

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!

2008-10-20T16:07:00.000-07:00

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!

2008-10-13T08:47:00.001-07:00

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!

2008-10-06T09:50:00.000-07:00

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!

2008-10-02T08:04:00.001-07:00

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.

2008-09-29T09:19:00.000-07:00

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.

2008-09-25T08:25:00.000-07:00

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.

2008-09-22T08:23:00.000-07:00

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!

2008-09-21T08:45:00.001-07:00

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.

2008-09-20T12:46:00.000-07:00

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?

2008-09-19T09:10:00.000-07:00

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.

2008-09-18T08:20:00.000-07:00

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.

2008-09-15T08:16:00.000-07:00

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!

2008-09-13T12:00:00.001-07:00

One Reason why I am Pro-Life

The following video is one reason why I am Pro-Life. The danger that those who are Pro-Choice have is that they run the risk of playing God and disposing of souls. Even those who seem to have no value in human eyes. Some would say that this man when he was born would not have any quality of life - no value, but he does. Of course he had to prove it, but whether he did or didn't, he still has value. He is amazing and such an inspiration. God bless his ministry.

2008-09-09T08:04:00.000-07:00

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!

2008-09-06T09:44:00.001-07:00

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

2008-09-05T22:15:00.000-07:00

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!

2008-08-30T07:45:00.000-07:00

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.

2008-08-25T11:14:00.000-07:00

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!

2008-08-22T08:50:00.000-07:00

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!

2008-08-19T19:07:00.001-07:00

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.

2008-08-18T08:45:00.000-07:00

Weekly Bible Reading Update

I am caught up!I just started Esther this morning, which is another favorite. The older I get, the more I wonder about the arrangements of Esther's marriage. When I was younger I thought very innocently about it all. How much more the story of Esther means to me.

Esther 2:12-20 NLT
12 Before each young woman was taken to the king’s bed, she was given the prescribed twelve months of beauty treatments—six months with oil of myrrh, followed by six months with special perfumes and ointments. 13 When it was time for her to go to the king’s palace, she was given her choice of whatever clothing or jewelry she wanted to take from the harem. 14 That evening she was taken to the king’s private rooms, and the next morning she was brought to the second harem,^[c] where the king’s wives lived. There she would be under the care of Shaashgaz, the king’s eunuch in charge of the concubines. She would never go to the king again unless he had especially enjoyed her and requested her by name.

15 Esther was the daughter of Abihail, who was Mordecai’s uncle. (Mordecai had adopted his younger cousin Esther.) When it was Esther’s turn to go to the king, she accepted the advice of Hegai, the eunuch in charge of the harem. She asked for nothing except what he suggested, and she was admired by everyone who saw her.

16 Esther was taken to King Xerxes at the royal palace in early winter^[d] of the seventh year of his reign. 17 And the king loved Esther more than any of the other young women. He was so delighted with her that he set the royal crown on her head and declared her queen instead of Vashti. 18 To celebrate the occasion, he gave a great banquet in Esther’s honor for all his nobles and officials, declaring a public holiday for the provinces and giving generous gifts to everyone.

19 Even after all the young women had been transferred to the second harem^[e] and Mordecai had become a palace official,^[f] 20 Esther continued to keep her family background and nationality a secret. She was still following Mordecai’s directions, just as she did when she lived in his home.

I have started some new life changes. Last week I wrote about running, which I did 3 times last week and continued today. One more life change is the way I clean my house. I have been inspired and motivated by flylady.com. Baby-steps!

Have a great week! If you need to make a life change, do it in baby-steps. God Bless You!

2008-08-17T21:15:00.001-07:00

The Newest Marshall

He is here, Kim and Lance's little one! He is 2 weeks old now. I met him the day he was born, but my camera wasn't working, so no pictures. My family went down to see him on Friday night. What a sweetie. He seems to be a very content baby and Kim seems like a pro and Lance is a proud poppa. As you can see, my kids seem to like the little baby. Congratulations Kim and Lance. Have fun! What a new adventure you have started.

2008-08-15T21:14:00.001-07:00

When I die, I want this song played at my funeral. It is a morbid thought to some, but since we all will have to pass away, it is realistic. I think that this song is beautiful and the lyrics are fitting. So now you know.

2008-08-15T20:01:00.001-07:00

My husband and I watched the whole Lord of the Rings Trilogy a couple weeks ago. This clip is ONE of my favorite parts. Unlike the latest Batman movie, there is enough romance, good vs. evil, and humor to endear these movies to me. I hope the next Batman movie will live up to my expectations.

2008-08-11T09:38:00.000-07:00

Weekly Bible Reading Update

I finished reading August 9th today. Since my daughter started 1st grade today, I am starting new routines. I have a feeling that I will be caught up before I know it. A new routine I started today is running. I got up and ran a mile early this morning with my new running partner Biscuit. I hope that I can continue in this new routine. The noted scripture passage for today comes from the August 7th reading out of the 1 Corinthians passage. (Yeah! I like 1 Corinthians, I took a class on it at Bible College). 1 Corinthians 3:7-8 " It's not important who does the planting, or who does the watering. What's important is that God makes the seed grow. The one who plants and the one who waters work together with the same purpose. And both will be rewarded for their hard work."

I may take a different spin on this verse for my encouragement today. Sometimes we get so content about planting seeds that we don't always work at watering. Maybe the watering isn't getting done. What I mean to say is that it doesn't matter who does it and don't get caught up in that, but there is work to be done. I want to encourage you to keep planting and watering. God will grow the seeds, but keep up the Good work. Have a blessed week.

2008-08-08T08:38:00.000-07:00

Rapha House

When our highschool youth group went to CIY, they came back on fire about an organization that they learned about called Rapha House. I don't know all the paticulars, from what I can tell, Rapha House builds safe houses for girls who have been involved in sex trafficking. Ever since I watched some news programs about sex trafficking a few years ago, I have been interested in the story. I have found a blog written by the Foundation Director, Kerry Decker. I have this blog listed on my sidebar under "Rapha House". Please take a moment to check it out. It is heart wrenching what these girls have to go through, but just maybe you will be touched and be able to help this ministry.

You hear, O LORD, the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry, defending the fatherless and the oppressed, in order that man, who is of the earth, may terrify no more. (Psalm 10:17,18)

2008-08-04T08:17:00.000-07:00

Weekly Bible Reading Update

I am so embarrassed, I am still behind and I am getting worse, AND I have no excuse. Even when I have a good excuse, there are NO excuses for not reading the Bible. I hope those out there that are trying to read scripture are doing a better job than I am and I want to encourage you to keep at it. I am always more blessed after I have read Scripture. I can't give up. This is the furthest I have ever gotten in the year trying to read the One Year Bible. I just have to keep trucking and making this a Spiritual Discipline. It is important.

I got up early this morning and I read 4 days worth of scripture and I finished August 1st. (I wanted to try to get caught up, but my family started getting up and when that happens, all hope is lost.) I think Romans, the way it is written, can be a hard read. I am still interested in doing a study on Romans. There are parts of Romans that are real encouraging and simple for this simple mind. For instance, Romans 15:5-6 NLT says, "May God, who gives patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other, as is fitting for the followers of Christ Jesus. Then all you can join together with one voice, giving praise and glory to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ."

I hope and pray that you will live in harmony with other Believers, God will give you the patience and encouragement to do that. We know that some take more patience than others, but just the same, it is important. Have a great week!

2008-08-01T11:14:00.000-07:00

The Dark Knight

Kirk took me to see the new Batman movie last night. I didn't love it, like I was hoping to. I was disappointed in the story line. (I don't want to spoil the movie for those who haven't seen it, so I won't go into it.) I especially don't like where the story line went with Rachel - Bruce Wayne's childhood love/friend. If you know me at all you would understand that it was lacking in the romance department and a happily ever after ending. It was a little too dark and towards the end of the film I remember thinking how I really could care less if I ever saw this movie again. What I did like about the movie, was the fact that Batman had faith in the good of people and he was willing to do whatever Gotham needed. At the end, you just got this sense of wanting to do the right thing. After the movie ended I was walking through the aisle and I noticed that a young couple just got up and left all their trash for us to walk through. I just shook my head at them. I wanted to say, "Hey didn't you just see that movie about doing the right thing? Just leaving your trash for others to pick up is not the right thing. It is just the start of evil thinking, that you are too good to pick up your own garbage." I didn't, I am a wimp and maybe a little too dramatic. BUT, really, what are we going to do with kids these days?

2008-07-30T07:31:00.000-07:00

A Smattering of Pictures: Beds, A Tooth, and Some Flowers

In June, Kirk and I were talking about sleeping arrangements when the family came. We started discussing moving the children around. Originally, my youngest son had his own room and slept in a crib. My daughter and middle son shared a room. We were discussing getting bunk beds for the boys and giving my daughter her own room. During the hunt for a bunk bed, my husband found theme beds and he thought he could do that. So he went to work and in about a week and after spending around $250 for both beds combined, my sons have a fort and my daughter has a castle to sleep in. The kids are very excited about their beds. Kirk is pretty handy!

The day that Kirk left for CIY, my daughter lost her second tooth. She wanted to keep this one and didn't want to give it to the tooth fairy. I guess she doesn't trust the tooth fairy on account that the fairy forgot to give money for the last tooth on the very first night.

I really wanted to go to CIY this year with the group. This is the 3rd year in a row that I haven't gone and I just had a desire to go, but Kirk and I decided that it costs too much money to take the kids along. My 2 older children would cost over $100 apiece, so I stayed home. Much to my surprise, on Wednesday Kirk sent me flowers. I read the card, it said, "HA HA, Love from CIY" At first I didn't think anything about the card, but later that night a thought came to me - could he mean "ha ha I am at CIY and you are not"? I called him and asked him -what do you think his answer was? I guess I will let you decide if Kirk could really be so mean, maybe you should ask him.

2008-07-28T08:22:00.000-07:00

Weekly Bible Reading Update

I am still behind. I thought I could read on my vacation, it would have been great to read God's Word as I sat in nature, but with 3 little ones to keep track of, I just didn't get it done. July 24th's reading, Romans 8:38-39 NLT, I love this passage.

38 And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,^[a] neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. 39 No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Today I hope that you, a Christ-follower, are convinced that nothing can separate you from God's love. If you aren't a Christ-follower, please know that there is a love so great that you can possess. All you have to do is choose to believe that Jesus is God's Son and that He was sent to earth to save us all from our sins, He died on a cross, and rose again. I think that you are in need of that kind of love.