Inside the Mind of Mama Bear

No Homeschool Superstar

2012-02-10T00:14:00.003-06:00

My darling sister sent me this link and I'm forever indebted....'cause I'm no homeschool superstar either.

"Homeschool superstars. They're all over the blogosphere: wildly inspiring women with endless stores of energy and beautifully written lesson plans. Their kids make elaborate lapbooks, go on exciting field trips, are involved in oodles of extracurricular clubs and activities. Their blog posts are full of glitter and paint, cutting and pasting, and no end of ambitious mama-led activities that make most of us shut our browsers with a whimper, wondering how they manage to do more in a single week than we do in an entire year."

Read the rest of the article at Amongst Lovely Things.

Check Out These Thought-Provoking Quotes.

2012-02-02T15:05:00.000-06:00

"Technology presents us with a unique spiritual challenge. Because it is meant to serve us in fulfilling our created purpose, because it makes our lives easier, longer, and more comfortable, we are prone to assign to it something of a godlike status. We easily rely on technology to give our lives meaning, and we trust technology to provide an ultimate answer to the frustration of life in a fallen world. Because of this, technology is uniquely susceptible to becoming an idol, raising itself to the place of God in our lives.”

"By giving us control, our new technologies tend to enhance existing idols in our lives. Instead of becoming more like Christ through the forming and shaping influence of the church community, we form, and shape, and personalize our community to make it more like us. We take control of things that are not ours to control. Could it be that our desire for control is short-circuiting the process of change and transformation God wants us to experience through the mess of real world, flesh and blood, face-to-face relationships?"

“We may well find that if we are to fulfill God's mandate on earth, we will need to communicate less often so we can communicate more. We will need to forsake the ease and the pace of quantity for the reflective significance of quality.”― Tim Challies, The Next Story: Life and Faith after the Digital Explosion

My Home-keeping Top Three

2012-01-30T14:59:00.000-06:00

I'm absolutely crazy to even broach this topic. And you would completely agree if you were suddenly dropped into my house right now. I'm writing to remind myself and encourage someone else who is in the trenches of learning to keep a home. I'm forever indebted to my mother, and so many good friends for helping me in this area - it hasn't come natural to me.

I begin with this assumption: God has given me this special job of keeping my family's home. God has also given me the gifts, though they might need developed, that I need to do this job well.

Here goes my Home-keeping Top Three:

1. Decide on a Clean Enough.

Everyone has their own level of clean enough. You are free to decide on your own for your family. I asked my husband's opinion on this...I used to assume that he felt the same frustration that I did when the house wasn't orderly - which gave me more stress. Then I asked him & he is more comfortable with a bit of mess than I am... who knew?! Losing that assumption has helped me let go of my Grand Expectations & do what I can.

2. Create a plan.

Ugh. I have had a plan. I have had it for a looooong time. It was neatly in a notebook. That I hadn't opened for months till recently. It was a pre-homeschooling 2 children plan & it involved 3 children total, instead of my present 4. So I did a little revisiting & revising & I'm lovin' it. Well, that might be a bit of an overstatement. I like it.

I love simplemom.net's blog - here's the link to her how-to about home management notebook.

And, if you have a few kids, go ahead and buy this book - its work every red cent you will spend.

3. Manage your own attitude.

Remember:

Children don't need a sterile environment to thrive.

Decide:

I don't have to have a clean house to be happy.

I can choose joy even when my time and energy isn't enough to get my to-do list accomplished.

I wrote this in my journal Fall 2010: "What my children need most isn't clean faces or a clean house. They need a mama whose heart is seeking God and finding Him sufficient for all her heart needs. Life is lived from the heart - the heart's desires, priorities, idols - they all show up in everyday life."

Don't allow your own desire for a perfect house to cloud your thinking about what is most important. And don't allow what is most important to keep you from making goals and stretching and growing as a home keeper.

Get Out Of My House!

2012-01-30T14:38:00.000-06:00

Did you ever get mad at clutter? I think that's basically what I have to do to find the motivation to tackle the junk that needs sorting/purging/cleaning.

But I have been encouraged at progress made in the last year... I have been reading Organized Simplicity by Tsh Oxenreider and I can tell we're moving forward to a simpler, less cluttered life.

How about you? If you need a starting place, I'd highly recommend Tsh's book.

Progress and Mess

2012-01-23T14:27:00.000-06:00

There's a correlation between Progress and Mess, if you haven't noticed. I'm gonna go out on a limb and say that anytime there is Progress, there will be Mess. Its most convenient if we get to, say, arrive at the mall, notice the construction...go home, return three months later to see that the Mess has turned to Progress and rejoice because we get to enjoy the Progress without the Mess.But for most of the things in my life, its not like that. If Progress is to be made, Mess (& clean up) will be up to me too.

Home - that organized closet is worth the messy room, right? (I'll have to test this one out...)
Relationships - talking & working thru feelings and realities is messy work, but its worth the progress and clarity that results over time.
Church - I've heard my pastor/husband refer to this as "strategic chaos." Some chaos can actually contribute to forward momentum.
Home Educating - 'Tis messy, I tell you, I'm trusting we're moving forward.

My point: Don't let fear of Mess keep you stuck and not moving forward. Can you see where Progress and Mess are connected in your life?

I couldn't find a picture of the Mess associated with this Progress...really wish I could have - it was truly noteworthy. But the Progress has been worth it."You don’t let the guy with the broom control how many elephants are in the parade." ~Merlin Mann

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-21T10:31:00.023-06:00

My Sweetheart has been suggesting an on-line Christmas greeting for years...and this year I must not have had the time or mental capacity to protest. :) I love snail mail, but please accept our virtual, heart-felt Christmas wishes...

This has been a good year for our family - full of God's blessings and provision. Last Winter & Spring, I was reminded over and over again how God cares for His own. Every week or so someone would write or call and tell us that God had been bringing us to their mind & they were praying for us. I can't begin to say what that means to us. What would we do without the rest of the Body of Christ supporting and praying for us?! Our hearts are full of gratitude.

One highlight of our year was being able to be in Kentucky for the birth of Wilson Andrew Stroud, born to Andrew and Sherilyn (Darrell's sister) Stroud.

Other highlight include:
Visits from grandparents - Darrell's parents were able to come to Oklahoma for camp this summer, and my parents came for a visit in the spring and again in September.

A visit to Uncle Bob and Aunt Shar's NEW house after their house was destroyed in the Joplin tornado.

Visiting Great Grandpa and Grandma Stetler and Aunt Trilinda

On the same trip we were able to stay at Papa and Nana's for a few days...

We also have made great memories: 8 darling puppies, 2 Oklahoma Blizzards, many guests, Branson vacation, family reunions, camps, Big Hill camping with my Schaper family, and Thanksgiving with my family as well.

Our latest excitement is adding Drew Dahler to the church staff in November. He has become part of our family and we all love having him around -- now Caleb cries when he leaves too!

And just in case you're wondering why I've not been blogging more in the past 2 months...

...toddler in training - he's training Mama to have a toddler again.

Thank you, again, for your friendship and love for our family!
Merry Christmas!
With love,
The Oklahoma Stetlers

Creative Inspiration

2011-12-06T13:22:00.001-06:00

Courtney shared this quote, and let's just say...it may even inspire me to share the Christmas creativity at my house with you later this week :)

Edith Shaeffer says in the Art of Homemaking

“If you have been afraid that your love of beautiful flowers and the flickering flame of the candle is somehow less spiritual than living in starkness and ugliness, remember that He who created you to be creative gave you the things with which to make beauty and gave you the sensitivity to appreciate and respond to his creation. Creativity is his gift to you and the ‘raw materials’ to be put together in various ways are His gift to you as well.”

Listening Today

2011-12-01T12:49:00.001-06:00

Women and Feminity - a sermon by Pastor Mark Driscoll of www.marshill.com

I need to remember...

2011-11-22T19:42:00.002-06:00

...that if the Devil can't get me to quit following Jesus he will simply try to get me so consumed with my own life, concerns, issues, insecurities, etc that I can't be a blessing to anyone else.

For All My Ministry Wife Friends

2011-11-15T15:20:00.002-06:00

I've wished many times there was a college class that helped me prepare for my role here... However, Grace Driscoll's writing has been a great encouragement to me lately - hope you enjoy it too!

Ministry Wife

(There is a link to "Part 1" at the beginning.)

Another New Baby Article

2011-11-08T09:48:00.001-06:00

I love this article about Preparing For a New Baby... ahhhh yes!

The Most Challenging Days Top Ten

2011-10-29T06:32:00.001-05:00

I don't know if this is how it is for everyone, but when I was at the stage that these pictures represent, I was o.v.e.r.w.h.e.l.m.e.d. Gracie was 19 months old when Darrell Lee was born. I fondly refer to those days as The Most Challenging Days.

I was a leeeetle bit depressed and felt lost & inferior in adult world occasionally, but lonely in baby/toddler world. Honestly, my first baby felt like "romance," my second felt more like "responsibility." Thankfully, God sustained and sent books & other avenues to offer encouragement and help, and grow me through those months. I made lots of mistakes and did a few things right.

I hope to offer some encouragement & perspective thru these thoughts. I wish I could make a long list of the things that I'm not saying in this post (one of which is that I know all there is to know about this topic), but that would be annoying. So without further ado,

The Most Challenging Days Top Ten:

(The pictures in this post are Gracie and Darrell Lee - now 6 & 7 - when they were wee ones.)

1. Friends at your same stage of life are incredible. Unfortunately, I didn't actively find close friends until my 3rd was born. I guess you could say I had friendship issues. How I wish I had pursued friendships more here, in these hard days.

Prov. 18:24 A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly.

I needed adult interaction and I needed to know that the challenges I was facing were completely normal for that point in life. I would highly recommend MOPS - find one in your area or even start one.

One further point: your husband is a great friend, but its a LOT of pressure to put on him if you expect him to understand your womanly/motherly/exhausted emotions... he needs you to have other friendships that nourish your heart as well. There is another angle to this point - maybe you put too much of your time and energy into friendships instead of God's priorities for you - God, husband, children... See #5.

*If you're not at this point in life, take the time to notice when someone else is - be friendly first. She may not have the energy or courage to raise her eyes from the little ones she is supervising to even say "hi" but she will appreciate your care.*

2. Accept help that is offered. If someone offers to watch your children, (assuming you trust them implicitly) let them. An hour or two of empty hands and a quiet spot can revive even the most exhausted mama. If you've refused help, the offer-er may have stopped offering, so you could just ask if the offer still stands - it probably does- then set a date before you change your mind. You won't regret it.

3. Remember its OK to sit on the floor and read books & play... a lot. If that's the point of survival you're at, its OK. Give these little ones your love and hugs and kisses and if you can get things done while they nap, do that. I remember days of sitting on the floor, reading, playing and (sometimes crying) - trying to keep a smile on my face so the little ones wouldn't be scared...that's where I was & it was OK. I don't think they're scarred for life. Fortunately, these kind of days did not go on indefinitely for me - I still remember the HUGE smile I felt when Darrell Lee could sit up and Gracie was reliable enough to play with him for a few moments without crisis.

4. Shower and dress yourself and your babies everyday - sometimes that's what success looks like during this season.

5. Don't forget your husband at this stage. Your relationship with him is Primary (after God, of course.) It doesn't always feel like it when your hands are so busy, but it is. Women get more fulfillment from parenting at the early stages than men do typically. Your "tank" is being filled by sweet hugs and kisses from babies all day long (its drained by the same little people ironically) - but your husband only has ONE wife (right?!). Make a HUGE effort to be sure he knows he is #1 in your life. Plan a date, early bedtime for the kids, candle-light dinner, un-plugged time talking, kind, respectful words in a card or spoken while looking into his eyes, etc.

6. Eliminate drama. There might be relationships that drag and drain your soul - now is a good time to let them go. Even on Facebook - gauge whether your time on-line is filling you up or draining you dry. Choose wisely. And maybe read the book Boundaries.

7. Learn to talk to yourself. There is such a lack of adult communication during these days, its tempting to just listen to your mind - "I'm not doing anything valuable." "This house is a junk heap." "I don't have any nice clothes."

Instead, affirm good, true, noble facts. "My job is irreplaceable, it has been given to me by my Creator." "My house is a gift from God - its mine to enjoy & make as nice as I can." "I don't need a lot of nice clothes - just a few things that I love to wear." You can even post-it note message yourself ;)

8. Practice praying throughout your day & actively memorize scriptures such as Phil. 4:6-8 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-- think about such things.

2Cor. 12:9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.

9. Find inspiration for your days. Follow a couple encouraging blogs (This one has some great ones in the favorite posts), read a good, faith-building book, reach out to someone you can encourage.

10. Surrender to this phase of life. You don't need to be running around all the time or taking on a lot of extra responsibilities outside your home to be valuable and important. There are little people whose needs are now a priority - even more than your desire to feel like you've accomplished something. Go ahead & surrender. Spend the time with them, teaching and loving them. Interact with them with a smile and enjoy them.

This isn't a season to just survive through - allow it to shape you and help you grow in appreciation & compassion for others & learn a deeper patience and contentment with God's plan for your life.

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My friend wrote about her babies first year here - I relate so well to the feelings she expresses.

8 Ways to Be a Better Mom to Young Children - another great article from Crystal Paine.

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And might I just add.... This is a great reminder for me because I still have toddlers and face many of the same issues I did 6 years ago - but hopefully I have some better tools to deal with these days. I hope you're encouraged if you feel like you're sinking more than you're swimming in the Mama thing.

Blessings,
Liz

New Baby Top Ten

2011-10-22T18:10:00.000-05:00

*My sister-in-law, Sherilyn, is expecting a baby in 2 short weeks, so my mind has been thinking about new babies. I should have written this a year ago- might have remembered more, but here it is :)*

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You wouldn't know it if you've been to Babies R' Us, but you actually don't need a whole lot to bring a baby home from the hospital! I began my Mama Journey with a LOT of stuff - and that's okay - its part of the journey, I suppose. Sometimes all that stuff makes you feel prepared for any eventuality.

But I have felt like I needed progressively less with each baby that has come along (partially to preserve my own sanity). Completely off the top of my head, here's my Top Ten for your new baby (assuming a crib and carseat):

1. 7 soft sleepers in tiny sizes - I love gown sleepers for tiny babies & zippered sleepers are wonderful any size.

2. 5 soft, lighterweight blankets - big enough to swaddle, 1-2 substantial blankets if its winter

3. 7 burp cloths

4. Tiny baby diapers, wipes, and A & D - my favorite bottom protector - many babies have a diaper rash in the first couple months. My diaper rash plan: wash the tiny bum with water & air dry, then A & D.

5. 2-3 crib sheets

6. Sweet baby wash and lotion. (This should be #1 - good smelling baby is essential.)

7. A swing or bouncy seat is nice - probably one or the other is essential if you have older children - a safe place for the teensy one.

8. Gary Ezzo's On Becoming Babywise - its not the Baby Bible, but it contains many valid points. This book deserves a post of its own really... In a nutshell, I would suggest beginning implementing some of the principles about 2 weeks old as you are able depending on how you're doing emotionally & the overall health of your baby. The journey to sleeping better at night is worth taking, even if it doesn't go as quickly as the book says. And another note on sleeping - we've used a Sound Machine to create a sleeping environment with great success.

9. The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding is essential if you plan to nurse (You'll also want some nursing pads and this.) Ironically, some of the ideology is at odds with Babywise :) but it is a wonderful trouble-shooting guide.

10. Run, don't walk to your local library or Amazon.com for this little video, then watch it with your Sweetie. And you can watch videos of The Happiest Baby on the Block on youtube if you need more inspiration. The 5 S's to calming your baby are amazing! This was really helpful to my husband as well - he remembered the techniques (5 S's) much better than my flustered new mommy nerves let me - he had something specific he could "do" - and we know how important that is to a man. :)

Don't forget:

Lots of kleenex, a cleared schedule, a visual reminder to relax, & lots & lots of water to drink.
You are doing one of the most important things in your world when you're caring for that baby.
You can't "spoil" a baby by meeting its needs - one of which is snuggles & hugs & kisses.
Enjoy each moment - soak it in. Memorize the lines of that baby's face and celebrate every little thing that makes him so sweet and unique.
Sleep when the sweet one sleeps. Read that again. Then do it. For Real. For 2 months. At least.

This article was fun to read...

http://shopping.yahoo.com/articles/yshoppingarticles/688/10-things-new-parents-dont-need/

Did you, like me, find you had way too much stuff to manage when you just wanted to love on your baby? Less Stuff, More Snuggles, is what I say :)

The State of Your Heart

2011-10-19T08:02:00.000-05:00

“It is not an abstract thing—the state of your heart is the state of your home. You cannot harbor resentment secretly toward your children and expect their hearts to be submissive and tender. You cannot be greedy with your time and expect them to share their toys. And perhaps most importantly, you cannot resist your opportunities to be corrected by God and expect them to receive correction from you (Loving the Little Years, 14-15). ~Rachel Jankovic

This is a great article - she gave the above quote, which is has been proven in this house time after time.

Ending or Beginning?

2011-10-17T10:45:00.000-05:00

We all mourn endings. They are sad. Sometimes its easy to only see The End. But with every ending there is also a beginning. A fresh, new start. And who doesn't love that brand-new feeling?

What if we lived the finale, savored the conclusion, then launched a new beginning?

A book I want to read: Necessary Endings

Is there something or a season of your life that is ending? What dreams do you have for your new start?

Thrifting Top Ten

2011-10-10T08:36:00.000-05:00

Fall 2010

Most of you who know me, know I love to thrift store shop. I get a kick out of a great deal and looking at other people's "junk." It's a hobby for me - its not that I'm a brilliantly frugal lady - its just really fun for me.

My thrifting guidelines:

1. I don't go often. About twice a month.

2. I keep a list of things I need. (I'm always tempted to buy stuff I don't need.)

3. I only buy exeptional brands - I could buy Walmart/Target brands new if I wanted to - I want a great buy, and I want superb quality too. I'm a bit of a snob in this area - I don't usually even buy The Children's Place, or most store brands (Sonoma, Arizona, etc). That's how I weed out what I buy. And if you've ever ironed a Ralph Lauren or Tommy Hilfiger boys shirt compared to these other brands I've mentioned, you might know the difference I'm talking about.*

4. I rarely buy clothes for me at the thrift store - I don't usually find things I really, really love and will wear a lot. Because of this, I only go thru the women's clothes occasionally, or if I'm looking for a specific piece.

5. I don't shop the whole store. I know exactly where the boys' jeans, girls' skirts, dresses, and zippered cotton sleepers are. I will usually go thru other areas quickly, but those are my first stops.

6. I have one store that I go to regularly and 3 others that I might go to twice a year. Narrow down to the best options for you.

7. My fav store has certain colored tags that are half price each day - on Monday, you also receive an additional discount - usually at least 35%. I dig this. That's the day I usually go and I want to buy items where I can get both discounts.

8. I'm a thrift store nerd - my blood pressure and endorphins are rising just writing about it! (Or is that the freezing temperature at Starbucks?)

9. I really wish I could be a Professional Thrift Store Shopper when I find awesome things that somebody could really use & enjoy.

10. Is there anybody out there like me???

*(This is not to say that I don't want my kids to wear less than exceptional brands -- this is only a guideline for what I buy. We wear all sorts of brands gladly and if I really need something desperately brand matters less.)

Excellent Webinar TONIGHT! FREE!!!

2011-10-05T14:54:00.002-05:00

Kat at Inspired to Action is hosting this webinar tonight at 9 p.m. Eastern and you don't want to miss it if you're a parent - or ever expect you might be - or if you would like to have some great ideas for understanding and interacting with children. The material is very helpful & she is offering a discount on her on-line parenting courses .

Amy McCready's free webinar

Small Is The New Big

2011-10-04T14:56:00.000-05:00

Fall 2010

Small houses, closets, cars, budgets, cars...these are the topics complaints are made of. Our culture is always boasting of the bigger, better, new & improved. But is it always so?

What would it look like if we all stopped wishing/thinking/dreaming of "better" and started living with what we have? Making the most of the assets we've been given? What if we started seeing "stuff" as just "stuff" and recognized the infinite possibilities of what we could do (and not do) if we had less "stuff" to pursue and maintain? What if we got rid of a bunch of stuff and discovered some extra time and resources to do things we've only dreamed of?

This has been part of my 2011 Journey. I'm finding more joy, and its getting easier to get rid of junk. Life is more fun without so many things to manage. And we have more power to decide about the number of things we manage than we sometimes believe.

Here's a link to The Most Popular Posts of Becoming Minimalist blogger, Joshua Becker. He's got great perspective on the topic. And he also links to other articles & bloggers with the same topic.

If you're overwhelmed with stuff, a too-crowded schedule and managing it all, take a deep breath. You can gain control over the Margin-less life.

Maybe you're already on this journey? I'd love to hear about it!

With Tears... A Heart-felt Letter To My Mama

2011-09-19T16:54:00.003-05:00

Dear Mom,

On your birthday, I want to remember a few reasons that I love you so very much. In no particular order, here they are:

1. You care. Have I ever told you thank you for caring when I call you rejoicing about the tiniest baby victories, and milestones or caring when I call crying the blues because a small thing had made my day a challenge. You’ve always cared about the deeper struggles as well – and the very difficult moments in life. If I called and asked if you could come down here, you absolutely would (& have).

You care about others so much too – “Open arms leave the heart unprotected” you’d say. You consider loving others worth the risk – thank you for your self-less example.

2. You’re passionate. As a Schaper, by blood, you’re usually more reserved with your emotions – on the surface, anyway. But I know your heart and how your love for God, Daddy and your family are purpose-giving for you. You’re also passionate about caring for children, educating them, loving and enjoying them – thank you for the way you’ve educated me in these areas.

3. You’re very, very wise. As a young person, I remember thinking “so and so” was really something cool. And you would say, “Things aren’t always as they seem.” You’d not gossip about their problems or bother my young mind with details, but you’d just remind me not to be fascinated with people and surface things.

4. You’re beautiful. Last time I was home Shar and I were watching you and I said, “Isn’t she the most beautiful lady? Her skin is just perfect – rosey blushed cheeks, gentle eyebrows, gorgeous blue eyes…” I’ve always considered her to be the most beautiful lady I know.” Shar said, “Have you ever told her?” I don’t think I have before, so I am now… And I know you well enough to know that the beauty on the outside is just the beauty on the inside coming out.

5. You’re humble. In the last year or so I’ve thought more about this part of you…who a person is comes thru in difficult times. When there were challenged in our family, I remember hearing you crying out to God as you knelt at your bed. God used those moments to melt my heart… Your humility before Him stood you tall before me.

6. Possibly my favorite aspect of you as a mom: you don’t freak out. Or I could say, you have perspective.

You let me cook and make messes and mistakes - you didn’t freak out.

You let me cut Dad and Charlie’s hair – you didn’t freak out.

I was sorting thru old papers and found a letter you had sent to Bro. Knight at school in response to a letter he’d sent home to you about my misbehavior as a freshman. You were kind and direct and taking responsibility for my behavior even though it probably embarrassed you a lot. I never knew about that letter till a few days ago. It wasn’t something you decided to confront me about and made into a huge issue. I’m sure you prayed though…

It was that year that I called you from class and asked you to come get me. I was really struggling & felt I was at a critical point spiritually. Which crowd would I go with?? There were two crowds pulling and I had to choose. I knew I was at a decision point. You came and got me and I don’t remember how much we talked, but it didn’t involve lectures. You let me cry and work thru it and I went back to school. Looking back that was probably a turning point in my life.

You listened while I declared I’d never go on another date after that first one. We ended up laughing a lot about that.

When I was 15 and our relationship was a little strained, God sent healing in the form of a baby boy named Jareth. You called Peggy and told her to tell me that you were coming home and bringing a surprise. I met you in the driveway and was very shocked to see the tiniest baby I’d ever seen in a car seat in your car! He was jaundiced and needed a bath, but he was so precious. It was love at sight for our whole family, but especially me. You taught me how to love and care for a baby thru those months, years. He was like my own and I admired your motherly know-how. That tiny baby gave our relationship a breath of fresh air – he gave us a common goal – remember he gained a pound a week for a couple months! - and gave me something to do in those difficult growing up years.

Another moment comes to mind: a few days before graduation I stayed at a friend’s house with several girls from our class – we got the bright idea that my hair needed to be a little more blonde. We got the stuff, did the deed, shrieked laughing in the mirror at my very blonde hair…then I realized how permanent this was… I called you the next morning & told you I’d done the stupidest thing ever… you said come on home, it would be fine.

I still remember walking in to the office to your twinkling eyes telling me it was no big deal and we’d try to fix it. I think you told me about something similar you’d done when you were my age – and we laughed and I cried.

I wish I could say thanks for everything, but I don’t think there’s enough paper in the world. You’ve loved and cared for me as only a Mama can – “thanks” seems so small. But Thank You. Thank you for the grace, the gift of your unconditional love & the million ways you’ve shown it thru my almost 32 years.

All my love,

Elizabeth Joyann

What I was doing a year ago today...

2011-09-14T10:53:00.003-05:00

Caleb Charles - 11 months

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Maybe I can give you a tasteful and brief account of Tuesday, September 14, 2010 (this is to the best of my recollection since I didn't take notes):

5 am -- We arrive at the hospital and get checked in. Soon we find out my records haven't been sent to the hospital from the Dr.'s office. I suspect we will have to wait till the Dr.'s office opens at nine to start the induction... Darrell and I sleep (or try to sleep).

7:30 -- Ta da! They found my records.. just not where they were supposed to be! (sounds like my house!) So they draw blood, and start my I.V. (5 pokes!!!) for fluid and eventually pitocin.

8-8:30 -- they check me (I had been dilated 1 and 50% effaced at my last dr. appt. - baby was still high) - I was still dilated 1 and 70% effaced. The baby was at -1 station - which means still very high... since it needs to be +4 to be "fully engaged," I think. Pitocin started.

9:30 -- contractions getting more regular, Dr. Jackson came and broke my water. Dilated to 2... Since I have a history of going quickly to 10 after I get to 4-5 cm, he approves an epidural at 3.

10:30-11:30 -- Epidural time - same amazing anesthesiologist as with Heath's birth - I wonder if many women propose to anesthesiologists? I was ready to hug him! The kids had come up to the hospital, but they waited to come see me till after the epidural, I think. Of course, Darrell had to leave the room as well. I was nervous, and had to really focus my mind and pray thru that process... as well as try not to think about what is happening with the rather long needle and everything.

11:30-12 -- Contractions start getting regular again after the interruption of the epidural.

12- 12:30 -- Darrell goes to eat lunch, my mom is with me and I try to relax and enjoy the medicine :>)

12:30 - I'm feeling pressure, so the nurse checks me... dilated 7

12:45 -- More pressure, I tell the nurse... she hem-haws (I think I was interrupting her lunch!)... "I just checked you..." I tell her it doesn't matter to me if she checks me I just wanted her to know I'm feeling pressure... she checks. I'M COMPLETE! Nurse calls Dr. Jackson.

The scrub tech and nurse started rushing at that point to finish getting everything ready. My mom was reminding me to relax no matter what... and I knew it was almost time to meet our little guy. The nurse and scrub tech were turned around prepping something when my mom said, "Oh, there's his head!" The nurse turned around and said, "Oh crap!" (and that is a direct quote, as dis-tateful as it is to type!).

1:03 -- Caleb Charles was born, crying, into the nervous hands of a nurse and a with the help of a calm and collected scrub tech. :>)

So, there you have it! I know I haven't put pictures on here yet, but I don't have the computer with the pictures, so maybe I'll get to that later today...

Children Outfitting Top Ten

2011-09-12T08:22:00.000-05:00

One of the more fun things that I get to do right now is clothe my children. And I get to do it on a small budget, and small closet - both of which I rejoice in most of the time. :>) I thought I'd share my basic plan for this part of my world.

The inspiration to tame the Clothing Monster came after taking several trips my first summer as a mother of three children. I took the week before and did laundry, ironed what needed it, and bought my first bottle of wrinkle releaser for my kids' every day outfits. I was ready for the challenge.

That year, we had 3 (or 4?) different, but similar trips to take. After the first trip, I came home and washed all the laundry. The second trip packing was easier, because I'd already done all the thinking and planning. The third trip was easy-breezy! I started thinking life would be a lot simpler if I did this all the time!

So, I contacted my dear friend of Kristina J. fame - she encouraged me and generously shared her great ideas in this area. She is a super-fashionista with a practical approach to dressing kids and has been very helpful to me as I've worked thru these things.

Philosophically:

1. More clothes/outfits = more stress. Remember this. Don't feel obligated to keep everything you're given or buy every extra-good bargain. Define your style and preferences, then release yourself to live by them, whenever possible.

Practically:

2. All kids need a set of play clothes for every day of the week.

3. Most kids need just 2-3 casual outfits and 2-3 dress outfits per season (I combine Spring and Summer and Fall and Winter).

4. Think & plan in outfits - not separate pieces. (This is HUGE!)

Shopping tips:

5. When you buy, have a specific outfit or need in mind - not just for a great price or cool-ness.

6. Keep in mind the things you always watch for. For me, they are jeans, boys boots, "Gracie" dresses, or matching/coordinating shirts/outfits - its not that I'm a matchy-matchy freak - its just easier to make one decision, than four! "You're wearing your green race car shirts today!" And if you've seen my boys the last 2 summers you might know the shirts to which I refer :>)

7. Keep in mind the things you are needing (list in your purse?) & a price you are willing to pay. I really like to get nice jeans for less than $5, for example. These things vary from family to family and depend on your shopping options available.

Management ideas:

8. Twice a year take a couple days to devote to sorting & planning - I do this in March and September because it works well for me.

9. I start each season with stain-free, hole-free clothes for each child, even though they are usually second hand. Honestly, sometimes, I let some small holes in knees of play jeans pass - and I might even keep a ratty shirt - usually just 1, maybe 2 "camping outfits" though.

10. Find a system for keeping clothes that they can manage.

a. My kids all have drawers and put theirs away - except Caleb and Heath still needs a little help. I recently bought little dishpans and put their names on them for putting their folded clothes in - they carry it to their room and put away during chore time.

b. I've also heard of the idea of using a shoe keeper that hangs from a closet bar and putting separate outfits in each cubby - I think that's a great idea for the right situation.

So there's my Top Ten on that Topic! What works for you?

Its Hard To Get A Good Picture

2011-09-10T10:08:00.001-05:00

Caleb's First Haircut - June 2011

2011-09-09T10:52:00.000-05:00

After

Escapee

Ending or Beginning quote

2011-09-07T16:27:00.006-05:00

"When one door of happiness closes, another opens,
but often we look so long at the closed door
that we do not see the one that has been opened for us."
- Helen Keller

Stolen Money; Stolen Joy?

2011-09-07T13:41:00.009-05:00

Darrell and I sat on the porch swing talking about his day - in between answering the neighbor boys questions - while the kids rode bikes. He had faced a difficult situation - and not for the first time. It was a challenge without clear cut answers... as we sorted thru the details, he said, "If this is what God wants to use to clarify His vision for this church, and to give me courage and conviction, as it sends me to my knees, then bring it on. I want to learn what He's trying to teach me."

After our chat, I suggested a quick trip to my favorite thrift store. I went and grabbed my cash from my secret craigslist-sales jar...off we went. I found a perfect pair of Talbot's navy heels - I've been wishing for/needing some for years! I also found a nice little jean skirt for Gracie and a white bedskirt for our guest bed. But when I got to the cash register and could not find my cash anywhere! I knew where I had put it and it simply wasn't there. From all that I can deduce, it was probably taken from my purse, though Darrell or I was with it all the time.

You know that sick feeling in your stomach that hits at a time like that? Yeah, it was there. What a disappointment. After I sorted thru it mentally, I slowly began to think about it differently... What does God want to teach me?

I've known for a long time that an idol that is easily raised in my heart is money. I can easily begin to see it as the Answer, the Peace-giver, my Comfort. Somehow that little bit of cash in that jar gave me a lot of Joy, Peace and Hope. I had options! I wasn't trapped! I was in the process of creating a nice space (pictures soon) in what had formerly been our playroom, and had intended to use that money to complete the project.

But was the hope and joy found in that little bit of cash surpassing the hope and joy that I find in Him? That's the hard question. I think that and want to skip right on to the next thought. But I have to linger, given what I know of my own heart's tendencies.

I remembered Darrell's response to his situation earlier in the day. I remembered what he said about deepening his courage and conviction from this challenge. I remembered that is exactly what I pray for him regularly - that God would give him "clarity, conviction and courage as he leads our family and this church."

And then, I remembered what I've heard him pray for me so many times: that I would be able to fight "discouragement, depression and discontentment and find all my Joy in Him."

It looks like we're both getting what we've prayed for. But its like praying for patience - you will, more than likely, not be showered with gracious responses to irritating circumstances and annoying people. You will probably be given opportunities to be patient, by God's grace - to "put on patience" like a beautiful dress. (Read Colossians 3:10-17) You will mindfully "put on patience" many, many, many times before you ARE, at your heart, patient.

So it is with contentment or courage or any other desired, godly virtue... Opportunities to become ______ will present themselves many, many, many times before we will be - truly be -at our very core, the God-honoring and molded-in-His-image followers we want to be.

I choose to rest in the knowledge that God is leading, shaping, giving just what is needed for our Eternal joy - and that's enough.

Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. ~Matt. 6:30-33

Sleep like a baby

2011-08-28T17:16:00.003-05:00

Isn't this wonderful? Babies sleep so sweetly... Perfectly relaxed.

Recently, I have been sleeping a little better after going thru a season of about 6 months where sleep was not as restful as I could wish. *I think* one of the keys has been my going-to-sleep process (& I know this is an obscure detail - but this is Inside the Mind...). I've been trying to lay on my back perfectly still and think about nothingness - like those relaxation techniques they teach you in birthing classes & I think its helping! In fact, I need to go try it right now!

Have you ever experienced Mommy (or otherwise) Insomnia? After the children are tucked in, sometimes its hard for me to get to bed - either I'm just enjoying the silence, or getting things accomplished quickly and don't want to quit! I'm curious how you deal with sleeplessness if you've ever experienced it...

An Interview Worth Reading

2011-08-23T08:34:00.001-05:00

Sarah from Clover Lane did an interview (at Productive Parenting) on Motherhood. Her blog is a favorite of mine. Hope you can find a minute to read this and let it sink into your spirit... You will get a feel for her heart and I hope you'll subscribe to her blog - I think you'll love it and be inspired as a Mama.

One of the things her children have taught her:
"To watch for my best and worst moments, and then make changes to make less worse and more best happen. "

Join me in a Mama Moment?

2011-08-21T17:11:00.003-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=l4_6eQm7RTQ

I'm here!

2011-08-17T16:34:00.003-05:00

I'm happy to be back at my own computer, at my own desk - I mean I share it with Darrell Lee for kindergarten, but ya know... It feels good! Internet is hooked up and I'm really, really looking forward to getting back to more consistent blogging.

A big bonus is that I found the long lost camera charger... sadly, our summer will not be remembered in pictures because the charger was misplaced in a very obvious place I could have sworn I looked in multiple times... that's how it is, isn't it? *crickets* Oh, that's just my life?!

I've been enjoying reading so many of my friends' blogs on my husband's tablet, but its hard to comment on that thing, so I've been silent. Maybe and maybe not, I'll get back to comment...

Blessings,
Liz

A quick hello...

2011-06-24T22:25:00.005-05:00

How I am missing my blog! My home computer has just now been plugged in after being off for over a month. A big blessing is a new desk for me and the kids' school (I really will have 2 in school this year!) - it is a lovely one like this. It has a 24" extension off one end, and adjustable height - a necessity. God takes real good care of us. (And thank you, Mr. Craigslist.)

Life is moving right along and we are looking forward to the wonderful-ness of July - a family reunion, and two Family Camps to enjoy. I'll be back to my blog in August, but probably not before so I will give a quick update...

~~~~~~~

Darrell and I - we celebrated our 9th anniversary this month. Gracie asked if we could camp out in the living room to celebrate... Daddy said, "No." We had a special date to one of our favorite restaurants and enjoyed an adult conversation. :>)

~~~~~~~~

Gracie finished 1st grade and was thrilled because now she can read all the extra books that had to wait till after school work was done. Funny girl. She also had two teeth pulled and was a real trooper even though she was a little scared. She is loving summer.

~~~~~~~~~

Darrell Lee is growing and developing even more non verbal skills such as, "Ka-booooom!" He is such a (darling) boy. He is reading more and more - he's really, really motivated and enjoy it a lot. He still lives in the dirt. He also got a very short haircut for summer, which he wasn't sure about, but is growing accustomed to.

~~~~~~~~~

Heath is doing well. He is still replacing the "j" sound with "g" sound - its really funny to listen to - especially since he likes to "guggle" and he talks about doing a "good gob" and on and on. We're working on singing and he cannot possibly stand still and sing - he must be moving, moving, moving, playing air guitar or air drums - he got that from his daddy.

~~~~~~~~

Caleb is crawling, and pulling up to things and he had his first haircut. Just a little one - nothing major - he still looks like a baby. I told Darrell I think he's half angel and half marshmallow. He is a precious baby and he's growing - FAST! I've enjoyed him as much as I have all our babies.

I hope you have a very nice summer - we have been enjoying ours doing a few improvement projects and enjoying life.

See you in August!

Blessings!

Liz

Gracie's New Doll

2011-06-04T08:35:00.001-05:00

Gracie opted to put her vacation $$ toward her American Girl fund, so when we got home she had enough money to order. I told her we would order the next day. Of course, we had to count $$ the first thing that morning. Pardon the PJs, please.

The special pkg arrived earlier than we expected! Delight!

She chose Ruthie (her middle name is Ruth)

Happy girl!

Ideas for Sleepy-time

2011-06-02T11:23:00.003-05:00

My good friend, Natalie, commented on a friend's post about bedtime with this comment.

Natalie said:
I am glad to hear I am not the only one fighting the bedtime battle!! :) So I am curious what you momma's do when you have said go to bed "don't get up...only to potty! :)" and you check on them and they are up, n...ight after night, or they keep finding 100 reasons to come ask you a question. Inbox me if you have any good advice!!!

Bianca echoed:
I am in there with you Natalie! Someone send us some suggestions. ..PLEASE!

At risk of sounding like a know-it-all, I decided to answer her here. I don't think I know it all, trust me on that, but I have found others' ideas soooo helpful to me that its given me the courage to share my own ideas in case they might be helpful to another mama in the trenches.

1. Evaluate what isn't working for you.

When we started a bedtime routine, what wasn't working for us was a fussy little girl, crying, in and out of our bed all night long, sleep-deprived baby and mama, etc. You get the picture... We got a plan and within a week, Gracie's mood was better starting first thing in the morning - I think she needed a boundary, and SLEEP! And you can be sure, I did too!

So what's not working for you? and why?

Is it the wrestling match with dad 5 minutes before they are supposed to go to sleep?
Or the high-energy video they're watching?
Wednesday nights are busy evenings, so bedtime is always later for us.
Sometimes kids just need a little more outside, sweating, dirty, running time to be ready to go to sleep quickly.

2. Choose a goal you want to shoot for.

Darrell felt more strongly about our firstborn going to bed and staying in bed than I did. I thought the up and down was normal - he said it wasn't going to be our "normal" (very kindly, of course), so we decided on what we should expect together: that we would take care of everything they need (drink, potty) before we put them down and then expect that they wouldn't get up again. Or if they did, that it would be out of the ordinary.

3. Create a plan.

I would recommend a simple bedtime routine that can almost always be done. I highly value flexibility as well - we have an abbreviated version for when we get home late.

PJs
Brush teeth and potty
Story
Turn on the rain (sound machine)
Tuck-in time and prayer

This is ours now...BUT when Gracie was 2-3 it was more like this:

PJs
Brush teeth and potty
(Turn on the rain in her room)
Rock and sing songs quietly (in her room)
Tuck-in time and prayer

The same-o routine almost every night has been helpful to us. Kids need to have some time to wind down - so if you need to preface the routine with some quiet time looking at books (or something), do it.

We also shut our kids' bedroom doors so that they aren't disturbed by us moving around the house. We have always done this, so our kids aren't bothered by it... some kids might not like it, I guess. You have to just do what will work for you.

If Darrell isn't home (or I) we tell the kids "Daddy will come talk to you when he gets home." Sometimes they are asleep and ask the next morning if Daddy did come talk to them - that would be the boys. Gracie wouldn't go to sleep, probably. She's not a natural easy-to-sleep person, apparently. Which is something you take into consideration in all this - but just because she doesn't sleep well naturally doesn't mean she doesn't need as much sleep.

If your child is old enough to understand, I would sit down and explain that mommy and daddy have decided "Susie" needs to stay in her bed after you tuck her in. Explain what will happen if she chooses to keep getting up. For a few nights plan on doing nothing besides making sure this happens and "outlasting" the manipulative behavior of your little angel. :>)

I watched a video a long time ago about "sleep props" - conditions that must be just so before your child can sleep... a pacifier, blankie, mama singing, someone with me, etc. Decide exactly what you can manage and do it. We use the rain as a sleep prop, and each of our older kids have a stuffed animal they usually sleep with. What can you do?

I had a conversation with a friend about this recently so it wasn't hard to just type it out. I would love to hear your observations and what works for your bedtime routine.

Family Fun Day (delayed post from early May)

2011-06-02T04:25:00.001-05:00

We went downtown to the Arts Festival

got snow cones

a gwape one for this guy

enjoyed time together (sleepy Caleb)

went over to the very cool downtown library

they have an american girl corner!!!

played a family game of baseball
at bat- heavy hitter Heath - he is a natural with a ball

We don't usually have such elaborate Family Days. But for Easter I gave each of the kids their own coupon - Gracie got a trip to the library, Darrell Lee a family date that he got to help plan, and Heath got a family baseball game.

By the way, after reading somewhere that "event gifts" were the most treasured and remembered, we've done a lot more of that. It seems to be true - great memories do last so much longer than the stuff you step on the next week...

Darrell Lee's Red Rider

2011-05-31T20:42:00.000-05:00

Darrell Lee had been stashing money away (he's not a natural spender so far), so one day he wanted to count it and Darrell pointed out that he had enough money to buy a BB gun. He had to think about it for a while - but after a few weeks he decided that he did want to buy one. They picked it up at Walmart and have had a great time shooting - only with Daddy, of course.

Family Vacation in Branson 2011 part 3

2011-05-31T08:28:00.001-05:00

I was just trying to get a picture of him with his souvenir from our trip...

Family Vacation in Branson 2011 part 2

2011-05-29T08:14:00.001-05:00

Darrell Lee and "Goliath"

Gracie thought this girl was the prettiest girl at the park - her name: Oops E. Daisy

We even branched out in our rides this year! :>) Now if Mama could remember how to keep from feeling so Green!

We had the nicest visit with my cousin and her family. Misty had twins, Courtney and Clayton, in February - they joined their 4 big sisters and are the sweetest crew!

*obviously found more pictures... and have one more Vacation post to come

Family Vacation in Branson 2011

2011-05-27T19:46:00.008-05:00

Pardon the poor quality of these pictures! Don't know what I did wrong, but here they are!

Gracie and Darrell Lee loved the kiddie "rollertoaster" (so-called by Heath). We had so much fun at Silver Dollar City. The kids even rode Fire in the Hole and Thunderation - 2 more rollertoasters :>)

My sister and her hubby came over and surprised me by staying with the kids while Darrell and I went and had a date - of course, Aunt Shar brought her stash of pipe cleaners and googly eyes for a wonderful, crafty time. And special thanks to Uncle Bob for supervising the pillow fighting. They are the very best!

On Saturday we went to Sight and Sound with them - what a great time! The production was "Noah" and it was superb, as I've come to expect from S & S. The kids loved this statue of "Goliath" - one of them said, "He has a skirt on!" Another said, "Why does he have a pot on his head??" Funny kids.

Fun at Fall Creek

Sweet Caleb cut his first tooth and the second one is coming thru now.

A relaxing hike

I took more pictures, but I have somehow digitally misplaced them or something... we'll see if more are to come or not!

Don't raise wimps

2011-05-11T11:10:00.000-05:00

This great article was on our Metro Family Magazine website. I'm guessing you'll have your own opinions :>)

From my experience observing a particular family, whose lifestyle is very simple and routine by necessity - and whose children are the absolute happiest kids I know - I'm pretty sure Mrs. Wilson is right. (mine aren't the kids I'm referring to, btw)

Preparing Children for Hardship

May Miscellany

2011-05-08T12:06:00.001-05:00

Love spring in OK - lots of messy and happy kids playin' outside.

Someone once referred to my babies' knees as "cascading." I don't really know what they meant, but I think they are adorable. :>)

He wants to crawl! It won't be long now... but I'm not ready.
Is any mother of 4 ready for the baby to be more mobile??

We had a fun-filled 24 hrs when Papa Stetler stopped thru, but I only have very fuzzy pictures to remember it... better luck next time. :>)

egg hunt 2011

2011-05-07T15:55:00.000-05:00

Daddy's Way

2011-05-06T16:14:00.000-05:00

This is a fact of babyhood (which you've probably already realized):

Babies Don't Want To Play With Baby Toys.

Big kid toys, yes.
Cords, yes.
Household appliances, yes.
Dangerous items, yes.
Randomness, yes.
Paper and/or ingestible (sp? or is that a word??), non-edible matter, yes.

Anything but baby toys.

I really don't know why I keep that silly basket of cutesy toys around. Why do I keep trying?

My husband learned this lesson much sooner than I -- therefore the title "Daddy's Way."

Hospitality 101

2011-05-06T15:54:00.001-05:00

My wise and amazingly gifted and hospitable sister shared this post with me and I LOVE IT!!!

"I'm never inviting you to MY house!"

Resurrection Day! 4-24-11

2011-05-06T15:42:00.006-05:00

Poor Caleb! We had to be ready about an hour before we normally have to be and he wasn't happy!

These guys were just fine, on the other hand :>)

A couple family pictures after church...

Maximize Your Mornings!!!`

2011-05-05T15:00:00.001-05:00

inspiredtoaction.com

I'm really excited to be joining this challenge for the next 3 months... I wanted to recommend it here in case you would like to join as well.... if you do join, let me know! I think this is the coolest idea since sliced bread - women cheering each other on in the really important stuff.

In a nut-shell:
"And for those of us who are mothers, this challenge is here to help us stop waking up TO our children and start waking up FOR our children."

Recommending & a comment

2011-05-04T14:03:00.003-05:00

Sarah did a cool review of the book Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother and I commented (which I copied below) - I thought it was worth sharing here too. This is a subject I've been thinking about a lot lately - expectations of our kids.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

My comment: This looks like a great book! I've never thought of myself as a tiger mother, only been a mother 7 yrs and so far I've evolved a good bit. But I do see the tendency in myself & my friends to expect very little and I'm pretty sure its because we expect relatively little of ourselves (myself included here). One of the hardest things about being a parent is you have to grow up yourself...

And if I may rant a little, the phrase "I'm just choosing my battles..." has got to be the biggest cover for the huge lack of expectation. I know that you DO have to choose your battles at different seasons of life and that is a legit fact of mothering, BUT I get tired of hearing it used when the reality is they aren't choosing very many battles at all - they're just choosing to ignore/excuse a LOT of issues. And maybe really, really important things they're bypassing - expecting to get some amazing result - or not thinking about the results at all.

Once again its two truths in tension - the "You're a snowflake!" (sing-songy voice) mentality and the disciplinarian, set-a-high-bar approach... I hope to achieve some of each :>)

~~~~~~~~~~~~

I would love to hear your thoughts - if you comment on her post (or the book, if you've read it), why don't you copy it here or stop over and let me know. I'm curious about some other perspectives...

Hope you have a Wonderful Wednesday!

The RE giveaway!

2011-05-02T12:12:00.001-05:00

Run over to enter The Reluctant Entertainer's amazing giveaway!

Boys building bridge

2011-04-21T16:39:00.000-05:00

Darrell had a game where you were given steel beams and were supposed to create a bridge that would hold the train that would cross it... the boys loved that game, so they started wanting to build a real bridge for their train.

Caleb & squash

2011-04-20T15:45:00.003-05:00

I'm going to try to post several videos in the near future especially for our far away family... enjoy!

Motherhood article

2011-04-09T16:07:00.004-05:00

(My sis-in-law - a wonderful mama - and her little boy, Brett, holding Caleb)

I just read this interesting (a little long) article.

"... I come back to the things I first learned in Dr. Steve Garber's excellent book, Fabric of Faithfulness , which argues that sustainable faith comes from having a coherent worldview, mentoring relationships, and community. As I think about motherhood as a vocation from this lens, I can see where all three are essential for women - young or old - to find peace and sustainability in what is arguably a rather chaotic enterprise."

The the author quotes: "G.K Chesterton in his book What is Wrong With The World in which he asks, " How can it be a large career to tell other people's children about the Rule of Three, and a small career to tell one's own children about the universe? How can it be broad to be the same thing to everyone, and narrow to be everything to someone? No. A woman's function is laborious, but because it is gigantic, not because it is minute. I will pity Mrs. Jones for the hugeness of her task; I will never pity her for its smallness."

I love that quote! I need it printed and laminated on my fridge. Overall, the article reminded me why I absolutely love the book, "What Every Mom Needs."

The Best Question - recommended reading

2011-04-03T11:28:00.000-05:00

I've been sorting thru family pictures to have printed and put in albums. Its a pretty long process since I was 3 yrs, 3 mos behind! I hope to get all caught up in time for Kodak's 9 cent print sale which ends Apr. 6.

All my spare time will be taken up with sorting those (and bursting into tears 'cause my babies are growing up!), but I wanted to post this article here that Ann Voskamp at Holy Experience recommended.

The Best Question - read it - especially if you've struggled with depression or know someone who has.

Blessings

2011-04-02T11:35:00.000-05:00

Confessing: I struggle with fearful thoughts. Bizarre, random, what-if-my-toddler-is-behind-the-van?? when he's actually in his car seat kind of thoughts. I frequently wonder what I would do if I had to bear a great sorrow or loss.

I didn't always think like this... in fact, I remember driving down the highway on our honeymoon - I could almost take you to the spot where I had one of my very first "what-if" thoughts, "If we had an accident and Darrell was killed, I would be a widow." (Yeah, I'm warped... that's why I've read this book multiple times.)

I think of it like this sometimes. I'm standing with my arms out-stretched and looking up to my Heavenly Father... he has loaded my arms with blessings. As He has added them I can easily start to focus on them and love them, treasure them, live for them (worship them?) ...and then be caught up in fear - "What if they are lost?" And I've stopped looking to my all-knowing Father.

I'm asking God to renew my mind and help me to think as HE wants me to think. I really want to hold these gifts with am open hand... Trusting my whole blessed life to God.

This is a great song - its encouraging me these days.

Blessings by Laura Story

My Picture Banner

2011-04-01T10:49:00.002-05:00

Also...

The inspiration for the picture banner came from Sarah, at Clover Lane. Here is her tutorial. She uses picasa and it looks great... My husband has photoshop elements and is quite familiar with it, so he helped me make this one using that.

MORE Cheap therapy

2011-04-01T09:06:00.001-05:00

My own little Starbucks for a few cents!*

Mocha Frappuccino

1. Make coffee twice as strong as the directions.
2. Add 1 tsp sugar for each 1/2 cup of concentrated coffee.
3. Pour into ice trays and allow to freeze. (or if you don't mind if its really slushy, its great just super cold too)

4. Pour 1/4 cup milk into blender.
5. (Optional) Add a couple ice cubes and blend to get the milk really cold, then fish out ice cubes, if you want it with a strong coffee taste.)
6. Add coffee cubes equivalent of 1 1/2 cups of non-concentrate (does that make sense?) coffee.
7. One and one half tablespoons of chocolate syrup (Caramel would be great if you like that flavor.)

7. Blend till the kids are begging you to turn it off 'cause its hurting their ears. (BTW, you can add chocolate chips if you're a Java Chip fan.)

8. Add a pouf of whipped cream.
9. Blend till kids run to the back of the house.

10. Sit and drink in peace. (The kids are all in the back of the house, remember?)

*disclaimer - I don't have extremely discriminating taste buds, but its amazing to me and Darrell loves it too.

SPRING!

2011-03-31T22:37:00.004-05:00

Spring has sprung on my blog -- finally!

I've been wanting to add some of my favorite places to read for a long time and I actually did it. I hope you enjoy looking around at some new things. If you read here and I don't have you listed on the side bar, please let me know, and I would be happy to add your link.

(I better run - Gracie is telling her daddy - around a mouthful of toothpaste - "I need to do yoga. Its good for your body and mind.")

Heath turns 3!

2011-03-30T08:10:00.001-05:00

Heath Agan Stetler is 3 years old!
March 4, 2011

The Arenders (Tim, Holly, Hadlee and Tanner) joined us for lunch.

Heath and his Froggy (sorta) Cupcakes. The cupcake directions were a little more elaborate, but I chucked some of the elaborations and kept it simple. *pats self on the back* (I'm learning, Shar!)

Thank you for the presents!

One of my favorite things...

2011-03-28T08:51:00.000-05:00

(gymboree cord shirt, gap denim shirt, jumping beans adjustable waist jeans - for a friend's little fella next fall - ignore the price tags - they were $1.50 each)

...is thrift store shopping.

But I'm a really cheap thrift store shopper.

I want the tags of my items to be the ones that are 50% off that week.

And I want a 50% off coupon.

(I must look pitiful because people have given me these coupons in the store twice.)

And picky. I'm really picky.

If I'm gonna buy thrift store bargains, I want them to be well-made brands.

I go at least once a month, just because its good for me.

(Rothschild coat for Gracie next year - I looked and looked for one on winter clearance racks, but I was glad I didn't find one when I found this one for $2.60. Like new Gap jeans for Darrell Lee - $3 - and a Tommy shirt for Heath - $2 or so?)

Gracie reading 3-25-11

2011-03-27T12:15:00.000-05:00

Darrell took this great clip of Gracie (who is in the last half of 1st grade) reading to her brothers. Who knew watching a kid learn to read would be sooo much fun?!

Also, I'd like to say, "Thank you, Mrs. Walker. I hope she grows up to be just like you."

(Mrs. Walker is an amazing teacher with Bob Jones University home education program. Its perfect. For us.)

Recommend this!

2011-03-22T14:27:00.002-05:00

(Heath prefers to lick the icing from the middle of his oreos and leave the cookies - I found him at the table with this little stack.)

I read an article recently and wanted to share it here. I'm one of those who could get bogged down in parenting philosophies, but I am drawn to this simplicity and winsomeness that this writer describes:

"Stay close to your children, and stay close to God."

Here's an excerpt where Elizabeth Foss quotes another author:

"In the excellent book, Hold On to Your Kids, the authors write:

“No matter what problem or issue we face in parenting, our relationship with our children should be the highest priority. Children do not experience our intentions, no matter how heartfelt. They experience what we manifest in tone and behavior. We cannot assume that children will know what our priorities are: we live our priorities.

“Many a child for whom the parents feel unconditional love receives the message that this love is very conditional indeed … unconditional acceptance is the most difficult to convey exactly when it is most needed: when our children have disappointed us, violated our values or made themselves odious to us. Precisely at such times, we must indicate, in word or gesture, that the child is more important than what he does.”

Our Redemptive Routines

2011-03-19T12:26:00.002-05:00

Our Week

Sunday - Darrell leaves early - this is a work day for him except for lunch with us.
Monday - Darrell is home. Most of the time we do very little. Errands, thrift store, date, rest. No school for Gracie :>)
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday - Darrell is gone early and plans to work at least 10 hours/day. Gracie has school each day and I have a basic routine for my days involving home-keeping.
Friday - we do errands (we've been a one car family so we do them together a lot), yard work, car work, family projects, go to the Y, etc. Sometimes we've ended the day with a special craft project or a special devotional time.

Interesting that we've not had a normal week yet this month....but, that's part of the reason for this "schedule" - so that we have a rhythm to fall into when its not set by outside things.

Part of being the parsonage family is that sometimes his work brings me work to do (which I am happy to do). Its not as cut and dried as it might be if we were in another line of work, but, I will never be bored - that's wonderful! (For the sake of time I won't list the many other benefits of our life as pastors.)

Also, this is not the schedule that shall not change...ever. It could change -- or it could be what serves our family for this season, then we move on to another rhythm. One thing for sure, we are depending on God to help us find a pace that is compatible with living well, for His glory, and the sake of His Kingdom.

Free E-book!

2011-03-13T22:54:00.002-05:00

Because Linda Dillow is one of my very favorite authors, I had to recommend this book - FREE - in in e-book form. Here's the link: Calm My Anxious Heart. One of the reasons I think she's great - I contacted her about quoting her book extensively here, and she very graciously responded with a sweet note. Made my day!

Thanks to Money Saving Mom (I'm back to reading her blog after a long time away) for the heads up!

A few notes about Redemptive Routines

2011-03-12T12:00:00.002-06:00

Notes:

I don't have it all figured out - not by a loooong shot. I'm journaling my journey here because I cement things in my mind by writing them. Maybe you will find that you are somewhere in the journey with me - several of you have commented - and I love that.
I want to be sure you know that what I write here is the theory - its not always what happens. And that's ok. Part of what routines are for is knowing where to go back to when you get off track or life throws a curve ball.

I'm thinking that some people must do this (organize time, space, money) more naturally or something... I don't. Kinda like Flylady calls some people Born Organized - I'm not. I'm on the short bus... But, its coming. After visiting my sister a couple years ago, I was inspired to organize my medicine cabinet. I think that was the first intentional project I took on. And wee baby steps have taken place since then, but I tell you, I ain't no good at this!
My first experience with derailing from my Redemptive Routines: almost a month ago we had our first week of wonderful weather - I had a serious case of Project Energy. It was amazing! I got many projects marked off my list - but somehow I didn't gain more hours in the day - strangely, no one came and did the things that I need to do to maintain order in the rest of the house - therefore, I dearly paid for it the next week. Mess, discouragement, confusion abounded. Not good. I did find peace and a semblance of order, but it wasn't till about Friday. (Maybe I should plan for a major Organization Week each spring and fall to allow for this? If I cooked ahead and planned for it, it could be really good.)

Our lifestyle - pastoring and homeschooling - allows us many options. I don't have my rhythm set by my kids' school schedule or my husband's work schedule. Its more flexible than many lifestyles. But more flexible = more exhausting. Think about how our bodies would feel if our heart was arrhythmic and beating without a regular pattern - we'd be resting a lot! Part of Redemptive Routines, for us, is creating a sustainable rhythm for our life.

Check out Clover Lane!

2011-03-08T19:31:00.002-06:00

The past two days have found me down with a little nursing mama ailment, so I have had more than usual time to read, think and enjoy watching the never-ending action around me. I'm supposed to rest a lot and nurse at least every two hours - feels like I'm just getting home from the hospital again!

A friend of mine, Jamie, recommended reading this blog: Clover Lane. I read the latest post about asking yourself, "What if..." and it fit in well with exactly where I am with my Redemptive Routines thinking... so I read a little more. There are lots of great posts on the side bar... I read, and read and feel a genuine connection to her mama heart...

I read about potty training, what sacrifice used to look like, and a behavior modification secret that works... there is a lot more I want to read, but I hope to be feeling better soon.

A couple links to make you think :>)

2011-03-07T17:25:00.002-06:00

Here are a couple links you might just love:

On labels and limits: why I no longer call myself an attachment parent

First time obedience, really?

I love these articles because I'm convinced its true: there are lots of ways to be a great mama. (As opposed to one perfect recipe.)

Redemptive Routines Continued

2011-03-05T12:00:00.000-06:00

Soon after our Redemptive Routines journey started, I realized that its all about priorities and organizing them. In fact, it was sort of an epiphany for me to understand that life is ALL about organizing our priorities.

When we budget, we organize our financial priorities, then do our best to live it out.
When we organize our homes, we decide on our spatial priorities and then do our best to work them out.
It’s the same with our time – we decide on priorities, then, if we’re serious about not living from crisis to crisis, we arrange our time “budget” - giving all our priorities their allotment of time.

This is not an easy task. It involves saying “No” to many things that we could/ should/ought/want to do or others want us to do. And in order to have the strength to say “No” to the many pressing things, we have to learn to say a bigger, “YES!” to our previously decided priorities.

“Learn to say 'no' to the good so you can say 'yes' to the best.” – John Maxwell

It has definitely been a process for us, but we have reaped great benefits already.

We are all healthy.
We have been all tucked in bed before 10 several nights.
There is considerably more peace in our house.
I have time to do the things that only I can do – care for my husband and children, clean and organize my home, and love the people God puts right in front of me as I live my life for Him.

Is anyone with me in this particular journey?

Gracie's Birthday - Feb. 20

2011-03-04T19:10:00.000-06:00

Our firstborn turned 7 years old!

This was the birthday celebration in which we used up all the odds and ends of party supplies in my box - lots of (colorful) fun.

Daddy read a special (simple) poem that I wrote for our girl, then prayed a precious prayer for her. That's a birthday tradition I'd like to continue.

All the cousins reading after lunch...

Gracie, and her cupcakes, with tall icing and sprinkles, as she requested.

She brings a whole lot of sunshine to our world!

VIP's come to visit - Feb. 19

2011-03-03T18:55:00.000-06:00

Papa Gary brought the fixins for homemade laundry soap and the made it with Gracie and Darrell Lee - so much fun!

Grandma Ruth got lots and lots of giggles & kisses from Caleb.

Uncle Bob & Aunt Shar had something fun to do, of course - puppets!

Cousins and puppies - the world's best playmates.

Ya think they slept that night? You're right - not much.
Gracie came to our bed in the wee hours of the morning and said, "Mama, I can't sleep!" She didn't think she had slept at all yet. Bless her heart - she was so excited.

February News

2011-03-02T18:39:00.000-06:00

This month Oklahoma weathered 2 major snowstorms. The first gave us 12 inches of snow, then second, about 8 inches, I think. That's quite a bit for us!

The puppies stayed nice and warm in their shelter under the brown tarp you see in the picture. There was a heat lamp and we put a digital thermometer inside - sometimes they were warmer than we were in the house!

Teacher Gracie :>)

One week after the second snowstorm it was 82 degrees here.

Delightful boy!

Gorgeous weather to play in the dirt!

And let puppies nibble at your toes...

Its going to be hard to let these puppies go!

Heath and his friend, Chelle.
She says she's turning 3 and getting married.
To Heath.
Because he is her favorite.

Brave Darrell Lee on the Segway at the Science Museum.

PUPPIES!

2011-03-01T12:00:00.000-06:00

1 week old
8 - eight! - of them!

They were born January 26, and will be six weeks old on March 9. They are lab mix sweethearts and will be medium-sized, I'm guessing. Do you need one?

3 1/2 weeks old

January News

2011-02-27T12:00:00.000-06:00

Popcorn on a long, winter evening.

A first - a dress up date with Daddy. She requested that Darrell wear his gray suit, but it was at the cleaners. She reached a goal in her first grade lessons, and was really excited for a special date.

I went in to check on Heath and he was sleeping with the book open and over his face, so I went to get the camera and he had turned over.

Lots of time for lovin' our happy, chubby baby.

A special concert with the Collingsworth Family.

Dedicating a special boy: Jayden Robert

Article about the sexualization of young girls

2011-02-26T14:05:00.002-06:00

The Sexualization of young girls

This article is from a secular stand point -- I've heard these things from a Christian perspective-- the consensus was especially interesting and thought provoking.

I hope you'll take some time to read it and tell me what you think!

Redemptive Routines

2011-02-26T12:00:00.000-06:00

· In December, our whole family was sick and exhausted. We couldn’t seem to pull out of it! I was wondering what was going on.

· I analyzed (I’m good at that) the few months before that. We had lived mostly in crisis management mode. Adrenaline would pull us thru a crisis, then we would sleep, hit another crisis, get sick, sleep, etc. If it hadn't been for adrenaline we wouldn't have accomplished anything!

· After talking about it with Darrell, we realized that both of us were living with a lot of distraction from our biggest purposes in life – we were just surviving – putting out fires, but not preventing many.

· Many conversations, tears, and prayer later we decided we would be working to create in our family some Redemptive Routines.

· We are both pretty flexible people, but we decided we needed to take some things off the bargaining table. Sleep, for example. We started the process of adopting a workable, flexible-when-it-needs-to-be Redemptive Routine.

Confession: Something in me has always reacted against the people in the world who do _______ on this day – and heaven forbid if that should change! But you know what? I’m thinking sometimes those people get more done in the long run. And I'm pretty sure they live longer. Think about how our physical bodies would feel if our heart was always as arrhythmic as our lives!

· There is power in focus. So we have chosen some priorities for our family, and are trying to live in Redemptive Routines.

Schaper Christmas 2010

2011-02-25T17:00:00.000-06:00

Schaper Christmas was a great time together as always. We all missed our "Mommy Girl," but it was extra sweet as we shared lots of memories and yet another, State of the Family Address, compliments of my cousin, Amanda. Its a wonderful time to catch up on all the goings-on of my many cousins and their families.

"Thank you, Grandpa!"

My cousin, Amanda, with Grandpa and her son, Carter Louis, named in honor of Grandpa, Melvin Louis - and the 90th descendant in his family, born in the month of Grandpa's 90th birthday. I think I've mentioned all that on here before, but its just a cool correlation, if you ask me.

The Great-Grands!

The Gary and Ruth (Schaper) Schenck grand children.
Loved Sabryn trying to help Rylan look at the camera. Gracie and Sabryn have a big job - keeping their 3 brothers (a piece!) in line!

Is it too late for Christmas pictures???

2011-02-24T17:22:00.007-06:00

Apparently this is the only picture I have of opening gifts with Papa and Nana. But here are a few posed pictures from Christmas Day 2010.

Our family

With Papa and Nana

With Uncle Kenny
(Hey, are they all looking approximately in the direction of the camera???)

2011-02-12T09:44:00.001-06:00

When women exercise their veto power, men become passive. #loveandrespect

Bless Your Church Pt. 4

2011-02-08T12:00:00.001-06:00

4. CONSIDER YOUR CHILDREN

At that time Jesus said, "I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Matt 11:25

Think back to when you were a child. Did you have a favorite preacher or Sunday School teacher? Most likely, you came to understand salvation in a more complete way thru pastors, teachers, evangelists or godly members of your congregation.

I want to remind you (and myself) - parenting isn’t a solo flight. Part of parenting is teaching, living, being an example yourself & part of parenting is putting your children in an environment where God can speak to them thru others. Contrary to Hillary Clinton's assertion, it doesn't "take a village to raise a child," but it does take a church.

My heart has been so encouraged in the last year as we’ve been in campmeetings, VBS and in regular services at our church – to look over and see my children hearing and understanding the messages. That is absolutely worth the effort of attending those services. I thank God for the people that He will use to influence the eternal destiny of my children.

I’ve wondered before what my heart would feel like if at 14, 15, 16, I felt my teenager getting away from God…what effort would I put into my prayers for them? How purposeful would I be about making sure we were at church when the doors were open? I want that level of intentionality right now as I train, teach, pray, and take them to church.

Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." Matt 19:14

Bless Your Church Pt. 3

2011-02-06T12:00:00.001-06:00

3. BE A FRIEND

What would your church be like if it were full of people like you?

Ahem… are you still there?

A man who has friends must himself be friendly, But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. Proverbs 18:24

· SMILE! (Even a weary smile will do!)

Ask someone else how they are before they ask you.

· Write a note of appreciation to someone OR suggest to your child that they take a piece of their artwork to an elderly person – maybe both!.

· Thank God for your church family.

· Try to remember some of the prayer requests and pray for them in your own personal & family prayer times.

· Maybe you really feel you don’t have any friends at your church? Invite one! If you’ve invited a friend, it’s a great reason to be there! One Sunday before Caleb was born, I had been up sick several times during the night. I didn’t feel like going to church when it was time to get up and get everyone dressed. But I remembered I had invited a friend! What if she came and I wasn’t there?! So I got us all up, dressed (thanks to denim and a bottle of wrinkle releaser) and we made it - even a little late will be ok sometimes.

· And don’t rush out too quickly afterwards. Take some time to linger with those of "like precious faith."

Lastly, I will leave you with this quote by Charles Spurgeon:

“Avoid with your whole soul that spirit of suspicion which sours some men’s lives, and to all things from which you might harshly draw an unkind inference turn a blind eye and a deaf ear.”

Indeed, our congregation has taught so much about how to be a friend -- we love them so much, and we feel their love for us as well.

The final part of this little Bless Your Church is coming soon...

Christmas in Branson

2011-02-04T12:00:00.001-06:00

I hate to admit that this is the only picture from our own little family Christmas. No one to man the camera! These sweet blankets were made, then embroidered by some ladies from my home church. The kids loved them, in spite of their strange expressions...

We met our family in at Silver Dollar City... it was the perfect escape after a particularly exhausting month. or two.

Sabryn lovin' on Caleb.

Aunt Shar and two of her buddies.

Heath with a funny face for the reindeer.

"We've been really, really good, Santa!"

The light shows were perfectly amazing... it was like one evening packed with so many relaxing experiences that you love to have at Christmas time.

Me and two of the world's best sisters.

I LOVE THIS MAN!

Christmas in a condo - a dream come true for me. We had Christmas Eve dinner at Olive Garden - loved it!

Grandma Ruth with sleepy Caleb.

Papa Gary, Grandma Ruth and all the grandchildren and grand-dogs :>)

Bless Your Church Pt. 2

2011-02-03T12:00:00.006-06:00

1. 2. BE THERE

The human mind will wander, but be aware of what you’re thinking and doing during church. Rest your body, and focus your mind on Jesus. Don’t you think your soul deserves the nourishment? It does. Think of it like an hour at the spa for your spirit.

There is something very special and “bonding” about worshiping with the congregation God has put YOU in. For a purpose, he has put you there. It is God-ordained, make no mistake! It takes some discipline and ahead of time choices, but BE all THERE.

But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness. Hebrews 3:13

Bless Your Church Pt. 1

2011-02-01T12:00:00.003-06:00

1. 1. GO

That is sometimes the most challenging thing to do. And you know what?? The devil has at least 100 tricks up his sleeve to make it so that you can’t get there. If you know this fact, its easier to see things as they are… when the the toilet overflows or _______ (insert disaster of your choice here) you know its just a hurdle to go over – don't allow it to STOP you!

On a recent Wednesday, we had a counseling session & dinner guests for the last 3 hours before church. I had encountered several small calamities during the day – I was running behind all afternoon - but we made it. The boys weren’t dressed as I wished they were, the dinner dishes weren’t done, and I was tired, but we made it. And I was tremendously blessed as I sat (that in itself was a relief) and sang with our congregation, “The blood will never lose its power!”

You might look at me and say, “She’s a pastor’s wife, it’s her job to go.” And maybe that’s true… I’m a little obligated to go, aren’t I? But what if you considered yourself “obligated” to go as well? Truthfully, this obligation has been most rewarding for me personally – I’m thinking it will be a HUGE blessing for you too. I’ve learned that if I will GO, I will greatly benefit.

Sometimes the first and hardest choice is the one to GO.

Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another-- and all the more as you see the Day approaching. Hebrews 10:25

2011-01-31T17:17:00.001-06:00

101 things to do while you're snowed in...help me out.

Further comments and Introducing...

2011-01-30T12:00:00.002-06:00

“Your silence is very revealing…” Remember the secretary from Monsters, Inc?

Only a few brave comments on this topic. I didn’t intend to shock you into silence! But just to invoke some serious thinking. Here’s what I want you to know – you can make an eternal difference in your family and the life of others by being a part of your Church – the family of believers where GOD has placed you, in His great wisdom.

So, how can you bless your church? I’m not talking about the the church building, right? The Church – God’s Church, Jesus’ Bride. What do you bring to this great family of people called Christians?

Honestly, this is an ironic topic for me to address right now. In the month of January I have not been at church more than I have been! My children have been sick – one or two at a time, of course. But the absence has made my heart grow fonder, so to speak. When I attended Sunday services after missing, my heart was so warmed, and I was moved as I understood, again, how precious it is to belong with this group of people.

I would also say this: It might seem strange for a pastor’s wife to address this. But, I assure you, I can say these things because I have learned a great deal from the stellar examples I have seen here at this church. These precious folks have loved and cared for each other even when they didn’t have many things in common. I truly wish for God to be glorified in His Church, and for that to be the case it will involve you and me being a dependable part of this Body.

Introducing: Bless Your Church

Our own little nativity

2011-01-28T17:02:00.009-06:00

Caleb (a.k.a. His Chubbiness)

Pardon the disturbed shepherd.

Sweet.

Handsome.

Lovely.

A dear friend wanted to buy my children these sweet Christmas outfits... aren't they great? She obviously knew that our family hearts trains.

December 2010

2011-01-28T16:56:00.004-06:00

Happy birthday, Ben!

My dear friend, Stephanie, and I with our boys. We were due in September - but we hadn't seen each other's babies till December!

"Caleb Charles, meet your buddy, Drew Elliot."

My comments about the video I posted

2011-01-20T14:18:00.002-06:00

In this sermon, John Piper is specifically addressing single people. He is encouraging them not to allow the idea of having a family to be raised up in their hearts as an idol – a savior from their present situation. And I believe that those of us who are married with children can take this from the excerpt:

Let us not view our family as the savior and only hope for our children or ourselves. There is only one Savior – Jesus Christ.

Let us not strive to create a family only “church.” Let us seek to be in community with others, who are not our family, and allow that communion to make us like Jesus.

Let us not seek to be the ideal family. Let us seek wholeheartedly JESUS and his righteousness and all these things will be added to us!

Whoa.

2011-01-18T13:04:00.002-06:00

This video - is a short excerpt of a sermon by John Piper, of Desiring God. Its a topic I will be talking about a little more in the coming weeks on this blog.

Other plans for this blog include posting a few Family Updates from Christmas. Better late than never, I hope.

The weeks since Christmas have been primarily comprised of tissues, saline, aspirators, inhalers, etc. We are very thankful that our bodies are healthy once again!

An unexpected blessing...

2010-12-19T16:11:00.004-06:00

"I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'" Acts 20:35

I wanted to share this story with you... and I'm counting on you to understand my heart here -- I only boast in the Lord. I saw a girl and felt so impressed that I knew her from somewhere or something... couldn't really pinpoint it. But I introduced myself and started talking to her - asking about her baby, etc. Her baby was one month old and she has a 1 1/2 year old as well.

I told her that I'm a pastor's wife and sometimes people give me things to give to others and help them. Did she need anything? Yes, she said she could use small baby bottles. I said I would see what I could find. I gave her my number and she gave me hers. Her name is Rosa.

I was going to call her a few days later after I'd found some clothes and another friend of mine had purchased bottles and shirts for her toddler. But I lost her number! I couldn't find it anywhere... that was a Saturday. So I prayed that if God wanted me to be in touch with her, He would have her call me. (I've rarely had someone call me back in this sort of situation - its almost always me getting in touch with them.)

BUT on Sunday afternoon - she called! I was nearly speechless and knew this was a God Appointment. So I set up a time to deliver some stuff to her apartment.

I found her in a tiny, three room apartment with especially low ceilings, but things were perfectly neat and tidy. I chatted with her for a few minutes and mentally took inventory: the baby was sleeping in an ancient pack 'n play-type crib that the toddler could easily pull over, the toddler was sleeping in a pack 'n play in the living room.

Long story short, with the help of my very generous friend, Molly, both of her boys have cribs - though one is waiting on the bolts.

Last evening, I was taking a few things over for her and showed her a pair of boots Molly had sent, she said, "I think they are too small... He wears..." And she reached down to pick up a pair of his shoes - fur lined crocs -- and showed me the size. "He won't wear these - he doesn't like them! Do you want them?" she asked.

I noticed that they were Heath's size -- and it so happens that I have been wishing I could find a pair of fur lined crocs for Heath. He LOVES (and that isn't an overstatement) his crocs! (I think its mostly that he can put them on himself.) My sister found some, but they would have been $15 and I didn't really want to spend that for them... God knew, and was waiting to give these to me. Just a small desire of my heart, but He knows those details and was happy to give...

I got in the car where Darrell and the kids were waiting and Darrell started quoting:

"Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you." Luke 6:38

I've found it to be true. This week has been one of many blessings... fur-lined crocs are just one.