It was three years ago that I really appreciated Thanksgiving for the first time. That was when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. In fact, I had my first appointment with my surgeon the day before Thanksgiving in 2007 and we scheduled my (first) surgery for the following Tuesday. Has it really only been three years? It seems like ten years have been added to my life since then.
Prior to that, it was always the time of family and togetherness that I looked forward to the most on Thanksgiving. Of course, that is still important to me, but now I am just so thankful to be here.
I don't care if the stuffing is just right, or if the turkey is big enough to feed everyone. Who cares if there are enough pies, or if decaf or caffeinated coffee is being served? I'm just so thankful to be here.
Why do we worry about whatever family tension may be a brewing? We are together. Can't we be thankful that we are together--whatever that looks like for me....for you.
I can just see Jesus interceding for us and cheering us on as we come together with family!
"You can do it!" "Love your brother." "Forgive your sister."
"Let it (whatever "it" is) go." "Lay down your pride." "Hug your mother."
"Kiss your father." "Play with your children." "Engage with your grandparents."
There are so many things we can be thankful for!
Well, Happy Thanksgiving! And pass the turkey, please!
Showing posts with label Family. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Family. Show all posts
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
School Begins
One of my blogger and homeschool friends came up with a great way to start off her school year. Seeing that I was lacking a great way to start mine, I borrowed some of her ideas
Tomorrow, our oldest heads off for public school for the first time. We are very excited for him. So today, we officially kicked off our school year, for homeschool and public school, together.
We started with the borrowed idea of having a time capsule. So, as the boys sat at our round table for nearly two hours, they filled out four blank pages with the following information:
What are three things you are good at?
A self-portrait.
What do you dream about doing?
What will you do this year to improve in one area?
The answers were varied in thoughtfulness and creativity. Some were completed with words and some with pictures. You just never know what you're going to get with an assignment like this. I decided not to interfere with their creative processes and was pleasantly surprised by most of their ideas (and as you will see, a little concerned about a few!) So, in random order (to keep their anonymity) here are the answers I got to the above questions:
What are three things you are good at? Soccer, climbing, thinking up ideas, art, reading, math, sports, camping.
A self-portrait. Oh, I wish I could show you these. The boys had so much fun and really worked hard on them.
What do you dream about doing? Designing things for the Army, Becoming a Regional Service Manager, Being a Wizard (What?), Making Shoes, and Racing Cars.
What will you do this year to improve in one area? read more (YAY, he thought this up on his own!!), riting (boy, did he hit the nail on the head with that one!), brotherly love (Thank you, Jesus!), laying on the floor to do my math (hmm, maybe that will make all the difference! Pun intended.)
After completing all the answers, we rolled up the papers and stuck them in our "time capsule"--a modified cardboard Sensodyne toothpaste box--to be opened on our last day of school.
Oh, yes, and during this process two of my boys decided to change their names. Brenner would like to be called by his middle name, Isaiah. Parker would like to be called Bubba--which is the name of a friend I had in high school. (After my high school reunion last year, the boys asked me lots of questions about who I saw. I mentioned seeing Bubba--who no longer goes by that name, but it's hard to think of him as anything else. Well, apparently the boys loved the name and have debated for awhile as to who among them should be called Bubba. I guess Parker won). We'll see how long that lasts.
We wrapped up our morning by brainstorming ideas for our daily schedule, our classroom rules, our chore rotation, quick lunch/snack ideas, and field trips. During the field trip discussion, ideas like "a trip to Disney World, to the Grand Canyon, and to Kansas to see their cousins," kept coming up. I had to remind them that a field trip is a day trip, not a destination vacation.
May God's hand continue to be upon us this school year. Teaching us, prodding us, growing us, speaking to us, and showing us how to live this life for Him!
Tomorrow, our oldest heads off for public school for the first time. We are very excited for him. So today, we officially kicked off our school year, for homeschool and public school, together.
We started with the borrowed idea of having a time capsule. So, as the boys sat at our round table for nearly two hours, they filled out four blank pages with the following information:
What are three things you are good at?
A self-portrait.
What do you dream about doing?
What will you do this year to improve in one area?
The answers were varied in thoughtfulness and creativity. Some were completed with words and some with pictures. You just never know what you're going to get with an assignment like this. I decided not to interfere with their creative processes and was pleasantly surprised by most of their ideas (and as you will see, a little concerned about a few!) So, in random order (to keep their anonymity) here are the answers I got to the above questions:
What are three things you are good at? Soccer, climbing, thinking up ideas, art, reading, math, sports, camping.
A self-portrait. Oh, I wish I could show you these. The boys had so much fun and really worked hard on them.
What do you dream about doing? Designing things for the Army, Becoming a Regional Service Manager, Being a Wizard (What?), Making Shoes, and Racing Cars.
What will you do this year to improve in one area? read more (YAY, he thought this up on his own!!), riting (boy, did he hit the nail on the head with that one!), brotherly love (Thank you, Jesus!), laying on the floor to do my math (hmm, maybe that will make all the difference! Pun intended.)
After completing all the answers, we rolled up the papers and stuck them in our "time capsule"--a modified cardboard Sensodyne toothpaste box--to be opened on our last day of school.
Oh, yes, and during this process two of my boys decided to change their names. Brenner would like to be called by his middle name, Isaiah. Parker would like to be called Bubba--which is the name of a friend I had in high school. (After my high school reunion last year, the boys asked me lots of questions about who I saw. I mentioned seeing Bubba--who no longer goes by that name, but it's hard to think of him as anything else. Well, apparently the boys loved the name and have debated for awhile as to who among them should be called Bubba. I guess Parker won). We'll see how long that lasts.
We wrapped up our morning by brainstorming ideas for our daily schedule, our classroom rules, our chore rotation, quick lunch/snack ideas, and field trips. During the field trip discussion, ideas like "a trip to Disney World, to the Grand Canyon, and to Kansas to see their cousins," kept coming up. I had to remind them that a field trip is a day trip, not a destination vacation.
May God's hand continue to be upon us this school year. Teaching us, prodding us, growing us, speaking to us, and showing us how to live this life for Him!
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Garage Sale Fundraiser for an Adoptive Family
Dear Family and Friends,
I'm having a garage sale at my home on April 9th and 10th to benefit a family who is adopting two boys from Ethiopia. ALL PROCEEDS will be going to this adoptive family. Tiffini is a long time friend of mine whom I've known since third grade. During my cancer treatments she helped my family by organizing meals and cleaning days. It is now a privilege for me to do something to help her and her family.
Adoption is very costly. Though a garage sale can't begin to cover the total cost they will incur, it will help make a small dent.
Tiffini and her husband, Tom, began the adoption process at the end of last year. This usually takes awhile, but God has sped their process along. It's truly amazing! They could be traveling as early as the end of April to pick up their boys.
I only know of a few people who actually read my blog anymore, so I have no idea if this will be an effective way to help raise awareness and money for this adoptive family. Every little bit helps, right?! So, if you are one of the few who checks in from time to time and you want to help, here are some simple things you can do to make this garage sale fundraiser a success:
I'm having a garage sale at my home on April 9th and 10th to benefit a family who is adopting two boys from Ethiopia. ALL PROCEEDS will be going to this adoptive family. Tiffini is a long time friend of mine whom I've known since third grade. During my cancer treatments she helped my family by organizing meals and cleaning days. It is now a privilege for me to do something to help her and her family.
Adoption is very costly. Though a garage sale can't begin to cover the total cost they will incur, it will help make a small dent.
Tiffini and her husband, Tom, began the adoption process at the end of last year. This usually takes awhile, but God has sped their process along. It's truly amazing! They could be traveling as early as the end of April to pick up their boys.
I only know of a few people who actually read my blog anymore, so I have no idea if this will be an effective way to help raise awareness and money for this adoptive family. Every little bit helps, right?! So, if you are one of the few who checks in from time to time and you want to help, here are some simple things you can do to make this garage sale fundraiser a success:
- Consider donating items. Maybe you have been spring cleaning and have some stuff you are ready to pass along. Please, consider passing it my way! You can bring your stuff to my home between April 1st and April 8th. (If you don't know where I live, you can leave a comment on this blog with your email address, and I will give you directions.)
- Consider shopping at the garage sale. This sale will have contributions from many families. There's sure to be something here that you would like! There will also be face painting and balloon animals for the kids.
- Consider eating at the garage sale. We're planning on having some hot dogs, cookies, and soda at the sale. Stop by for a quick bite!!
- Finally, if you are a blogger or live in the area and know of other families who would want to donate items or visit the garage sale, then please pass this info along!!! Every little bit helps.
- Most importantly, PRAY! Please pray for this family, including the two brothers in Ethiopia. One child is in need of medical attention, so the sooner they can get here, the better!!!
Thank you so much for considering this opportunity to help an adoptive family. You can find out more about Tiffini and Tom, their adoption, and the incredible things God is doing through this process by checking out their blog at http://www.tomandtif-seven.blogspot.com/.
Blessings,
Michelle
P.S. After the event, I will be sure to post how much money is raised.
*********
Learn to do right! Seek justice, encourage the oppressed. Defend the cause of the fatherless, plead the case of the widow. Isaiah 1:17
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
So Long Ronald!
In the last two months our family has only been to McDonald's three times. Three times! That is quite an achievement for us. Do they give out World Records for self-control?!?
Usually, you could find me zipping through the drive-thru after a practice or game, between errands, while Sean was out of town, on the way home from the park....you name it. If there was an excuse to drive by, I jumped at the chance. Now, these stops weren't always for a full meal deal. Sometimes it was just for a "half and half Tea, light on the ice." (If you aren't familiar with the McD's jargon, that's a large half sweet and half unsweet tea, with little ice. Oh, how I miss my sweet tea.....but I digress).
We've made a real effort to eat healthier, and it's showing. Sean and I collectively have lost over 30 pounds. We're feeling better and looking better! (Though, I admit, I have a long way to go!)
And the boys are eating more variety than they ever have. One of our favorite treats is an afternoon smoothie. We blend together vanilla yogurt, strawberries with their green tops still on, blueberries, uncooked spinach (at least a cup full), a touch of orange juice, and chopped ice. It's very tasty!
Tonight, we had stir-fry with broccoli, carrots, mushrooms, red bell pepper, spinach, green onions, and left over ham poured atop brown rice. Though the younger two picked out the peppers and the mushrooms, they ate everything else...with some 'encouragement.'
All that being said, we still indulge from time to time in some tasty treats. So, I'm off to eat tonight's 'encouragement:' a cookie/brownie mixture we made for dessert!
*******
For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Peter 1:4-8
Usually, you could find me zipping through the drive-thru after a practice or game, between errands, while Sean was out of town, on the way home from the park....you name it. If there was an excuse to drive by, I jumped at the chance. Now, these stops weren't always for a full meal deal. Sometimes it was just for a "half and half Tea, light on the ice." (If you aren't familiar with the McD's jargon, that's a large half sweet and half unsweet tea, with little ice. Oh, how I miss my sweet tea.....but I digress).
We've made a real effort to eat healthier, and it's showing. Sean and I collectively have lost over 30 pounds. We're feeling better and looking better! (Though, I admit, I have a long way to go!)
And the boys are eating more variety than they ever have. One of our favorite treats is an afternoon smoothie. We blend together vanilla yogurt, strawberries with their green tops still on, blueberries, uncooked spinach (at least a cup full), a touch of orange juice, and chopped ice. It's very tasty!
Tonight, we had stir-fry with broccoli, carrots, mushrooms, red bell pepper, spinach, green onions, and left over ham poured atop brown rice. Though the younger two picked out the peppers and the mushrooms, they ate everything else...with some 'encouragement.'
All that being said, we still indulge from time to time in some tasty treats. So, I'm off to eat tonight's 'encouragement:' a cookie/brownie mixture we made for dessert!
*******
For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Peter 1:4-8
Friday, December 11, 2009
The Best Course of All
On the Thursday night of our trip to Idaho, we were treated to a seven-course meal by the ranch's chef. With each course, the chef would step out from the comfort zone of his kitchen and into the candlelit dining room to describe the upcoming portion of the meal. It was a delightful experience.
While scouring the pantry and refrigerator at lunchtime today, the memory of our seven-course meal popped into my mind. (Oh, the memories.......) It was apparent we needed something to 'spice up' our meager pickings. A trip to the store would fix the problem, but a trip at the moment wasn't possible. So, we turned our rather odd lunch into a feast of sorts.
1st Course: The smooth, cool, refreshing taste of......applesauce......served in a coffee cup.
2nd Course: Crunchy and flavorful, yet melt in your mouth, squares of......graham crackers.
3rd Course: The cool, crunchy, and slippery combination of.............sliced dill pickles.
4th Course: The warm, soothing soup of............Ramon Noodles....served in the rinsed out coffee cup.
5th Course: The sweet taste of leftover..............sugar cookies....(served early because the next course was still in the oven).
6th Course: Who can resist straight from the oven crescent rolls?
7th Course: (Dropped off by our neighbor during our 4th course). Mint chocolate candies.
Doesn't that all sound delicious and nutritious?! The boys enjoyed it. As we were cleaning up, Parker ran over and said,
"But mom, you forgot the best course of all......this one." And he gave me a great big bear hug. That boy can melt a heart in an instant.
*******************
Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him....Come, my children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord. Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies. Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. Psalm 34:8,12-14.
While scouring the pantry and refrigerator at lunchtime today, the memory of our seven-course meal popped into my mind. (Oh, the memories.......) It was apparent we needed something to 'spice up' our meager pickings. A trip to the store would fix the problem, but a trip at the moment wasn't possible. So, we turned our rather odd lunch into a feast of sorts.
1st Course: The smooth, cool, refreshing taste of......applesauce......served in a coffee cup.
2nd Course: Crunchy and flavorful, yet melt in your mouth, squares of......graham crackers.
3rd Course: The cool, crunchy, and slippery combination of.............sliced dill pickles.
4th Course: The warm, soothing soup of............Ramon Noodles....served in the rinsed out coffee cup.
5th Course: The sweet taste of leftover..............sugar cookies....(served early because the next course was still in the oven).
6th Course: Who can resist straight from the oven crescent rolls?
7th Course: (Dropped off by our neighbor during our 4th course). Mint chocolate candies.
Doesn't that all sound delicious and nutritious?! The boys enjoyed it. As we were cleaning up, Parker ran over and said,
"But mom, you forgot the best course of all......this one." And he gave me a great big bear hug. That boy can melt a heart in an instant.
*******************
Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him....Come, my children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord. Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies. Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. Psalm 34:8,12-14.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
O Christmas Tree!
Our annual hunt for the perfect Christmas tree was today. Rather than going to a Christmas tree farm as we always have, five out of six of us opted for a less messy and frigid experience. So, we went to a store with cut trees.
Boy, were we surprised to find that trees, which are already cut, are two to three times more expensive than the ones you cut down yourself.
So, one out of six of us got his wish........and we drove to a Christmas tree farm.
We weren't prepared for this change in plans. No gloves, no scarves, no hats. Though, we sure did look good as we marched around the cold and muddy farm wearing our church clothes and shoes.
This farm had all the 'bells and whistles' to make one's Christmas tree experience a wonderful memory. It started with a hayride out to the field in the frigid air. Remember...no hats, no gloves, no scarves. After Sean cut down our perfect tree, the boys hauled it away on a trolley. Workers put a tag on the tree and gave us a matching tag so we could be sure to picked up our perfect tree back at the barn. Another blustery ride on the hay wagon....no hats, no gloves, no scarves. The crew at the tree barn promptly grabbed our tree, shook out the loose needles, and wrapped it up with twine. A worker handed Sean the 'check' and we were ushered into the gift shop to pay for the tree.
Oh, it was warm in the gift shop. It was warm, there was free hot cocoa for everyone, many beautiful ornaments and knickknacks to peruse and ........SANTA! This really was turning out to be a wonderful experience.
After paying for our tree, drinking our fill of hot cocoa and feeling the warmth return to our fingertips, we headed out of the gift shop to retrieve our perfect white pine Christmas tree.......but the only tree left on the ground was....... not .....our ......tree!!!
Hmmm....let's look on the other side of the building.....no......wait.....doesn't the top of that tree on that blue van halfway down the parking lot look a lot like the top of our perfect white pine Christmas tree. Ummmm...what should we do? Do we run after them and say, 'Excuse me, you've tied our tree to the top of your van.' Oh No! The van is backing up....it's leaving....it's gone.......it's......gone. Our perfect white pine Christmas tree is gone!
Taking another hayride was out of the question. The first experience, though cold, was fun. The second experience would just be.....cold. One of the workers witnessed the energy and excitement drain from our crew the moment the blue van drove off with our perfect Christmas tree.
"Why don't you go over to the side of the barn and pick out any one of the cut trees that you see?"
So.......six out of six of us got what we wanted in a round-a-bout-sort-of-way and we ended up with a very expensive and lovely Fraser fir at half the price.
************************************
O Christmas Tree! O Christmas Tree!
How richly God has decked thee!
O Christmas Tree! O Christmas Tree!
How richly God has decked thee!
Thou bidst us true and faithful be,
And trust in God unchangingly!
O Christmas Tree! O Christmas Tree!
How richly God has decked thee!
(a traditional German carol, author unknown)
Boy, were we surprised to find that trees, which are already cut, are two to three times more expensive than the ones you cut down yourself.
So, one out of six of us got his wish........and we drove to a Christmas tree farm.
We weren't prepared for this change in plans. No gloves, no scarves, no hats. Though, we sure did look good as we marched around the cold and muddy farm wearing our church clothes and shoes.
This farm had all the 'bells and whistles' to make one's Christmas tree experience a wonderful memory. It started with a hayride out to the field in the frigid air. Remember...no hats, no gloves, no scarves. After Sean cut down our perfect tree, the boys hauled it away on a trolley. Workers put a tag on the tree and gave us a matching tag so we could be sure to picked up our perfect tree back at the barn. Another blustery ride on the hay wagon....no hats, no gloves, no scarves. The crew at the tree barn promptly grabbed our tree, shook out the loose needles, and wrapped it up with twine. A worker handed Sean the 'check' and we were ushered into the gift shop to pay for the tree.
Oh, it was warm in the gift shop. It was warm, there was free hot cocoa for everyone, many beautiful ornaments and knickknacks to peruse and ........SANTA! This really was turning out to be a wonderful experience.
After paying for our tree, drinking our fill of hot cocoa and feeling the warmth return to our fingertips, we headed out of the gift shop to retrieve our perfect white pine Christmas tree.......but the only tree left on the ground was....... not .....our ......tree!!!
Hmmm....let's look on the other side of the building.....no......wait.....doesn't the top of that tree on that blue van halfway down the parking lot look a lot like the top of our perfect white pine Christmas tree. Ummmm...what should we do? Do we run after them and say, 'Excuse me, you've tied our tree to the top of your van.' Oh No! The van is backing up....it's leaving....it's gone.......it's......gone. Our perfect white pine Christmas tree is gone!
Taking another hayride was out of the question. The first experience, though cold, was fun. The second experience would just be.....cold. One of the workers witnessed the energy and excitement drain from our crew the moment the blue van drove off with our perfect Christmas tree.
"Why don't you go over to the side of the barn and pick out any one of the cut trees that you see?"
So.......six out of six of us got what we wanted in a round-a-bout-sort-of-way and we ended up with a very expensive and lovely Fraser fir at half the price.
************************************
O Christmas Tree! O Christmas Tree!
How richly God has decked thee!
O Christmas Tree! O Christmas Tree!
How richly God has decked thee!
Thou bidst us true and faithful be,
And trust in God unchangingly!
O Christmas Tree! O Christmas Tree!
How richly God has decked thee!
(a traditional German carol, author unknown)
Thursday, August 13, 2009
It's All Greek to Me
My Grandmother's parents immigrated to the United States from Macedonia many years ago. Macedonia is just north of Greece.
To celebrate our family and its heritage, my Grandma's sisters and sisters-in-law organize an annual Greek reunion in August. Along with the typical American fare, we always have a variety of Greek food. Baklava and quiche are at the top of the list. This year, I tried everything and was pleasantly surprised. Though the piece of quiche with the quarter baked in alluded me, I found the food delicious.
As we ate, fellowshipped, and played a little Funny Money (an auction of items from our homes that we bid on with our $250 fake bills), I was reminded that family is important. Our heritage is important. Where we come from is important.
We may not have had the option to choose our family, where we were born, our parents or how many siblings we have or didn't have or still have. But they have been given to us for a reason, and some for only a season. To be loved and to be loved by.
Don't sweat the small stuff. Pray about the big stuff. And in the end....love. Love. Forgive. And love some more. And then forgive again.......
********
But we ought always to thank God for you, brothers (and sisters) loved by the Lord, because from the beginning God chose you to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and through belief in the truth. He called you to this through our gospel, that you might share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. So then, brothers (and sisters), stand firm and hold to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter. May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word. 2 Thessalonians 2:13-17.
To celebrate our family and its heritage, my Grandma's sisters and sisters-in-law organize an annual Greek reunion in August. Along with the typical American fare, we always have a variety of Greek food. Baklava and quiche are at the top of the list. This year, I tried everything and was pleasantly surprised. Though the piece of quiche with the quarter baked in alluded me, I found the food delicious.
As we ate, fellowshipped, and played a little Funny Money (an auction of items from our homes that we bid on with our $250 fake bills), I was reminded that family is important. Our heritage is important. Where we come from is important.
We may not have had the option to choose our family, where we were born, our parents or how many siblings we have or didn't have or still have. But they have been given to us for a reason, and some for only a season. To be loved and to be loved by.
Don't sweat the small stuff. Pray about the big stuff. And in the end....love. Love. Forgive. And love some more. And then forgive again.......
********
But we ought always to thank God for you, brothers (and sisters) loved by the Lord, because from the beginning God chose you to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and through belief in the truth. He called you to this through our gospel, that you might share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. So then, brothers (and sisters), stand firm and hold to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter. May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word. 2 Thessalonians 2:13-17.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
You'd Really Like It Here
It's been awhile. Many things have happened here in the last month, but one thing stands out. Through a series of well placed inquiries and investigations, Sean and I were able to take a trip with our boys to the place where 'dreams come true.' Yes, we went to Disney World!!!
I'm very proud of my man, but this trip cemented in my mind that he is a whiz, that he is brave, and that he is an incredible provider!!! First, he turned in most of his reward points from his overnight trips for work and got us free tickets to SeaWorld and a rental car for seven days!!! Second, he used priceline.com to secure, at a very good price, two adjoining rooms at the Holiday Inn and plane tickets for all six of us. Why Holiday Inn....because all four boys can eat there for free for breakfast and dinner!!! Another bonus!!!! Third, he used a great tip from our friend Tisha, to buy us 4 day passes to Disney World, plus a one day pass to a specialty park. The cost of these tickets was nearly half what it would have cost had we bought the tickets at full price.
What a wonderful, fabulous, exciting time we had as a family! So many memories were made there. One of the best memories of all was how the trip began.
This trip was a complete surprise to the boys. We kept it hush, hush around them. So, the Friday after Thanksgiving, the boys spent the night with my mom and dad so that Sean and I could pack up everything for the trip. On Saturday, Mimi and Papa (my mom and dad) spent the day entertaining the boys. They nonchalantly mentioned that they wanted to take the boys to see the new airport. As they walked through the mid-way, checking out all the new structures and all the people, heads bobbing from left to right, and up and down to see this impressive place......there stood Sean and me. One by one their eyes fell on us and all the backpacks and suitcases surrounding us. "What are you guys doing here?" they asked. "Oh, we thought it would be a good time to take a trip. Anyone want to go to Disney World?"
The looks on their faces and there expressions were priceless.
"You mean, now! You mean, all of us!"
"We're going today......in a plane!!"
"What?! What?! Are you serious?"
"Mommy, did you pack my swimsuit?"
Nearly every day we'd call Mimi and Papa to tell them of the previous days festivities and the plans for our new day. They enjoyed the updates. Of course, their heartstrings were pulled each time they spoke to Parker. "Mimi, you really need to come down here with us. Can't you just come down tomorrow? You'd really like it here."
I'm very proud of my man, but this trip cemented in my mind that he is a whiz, that he is brave, and that he is an incredible provider!!! First, he turned in most of his reward points from his overnight trips for work and got us free tickets to SeaWorld and a rental car for seven days!!! Second, he used priceline.com to secure, at a very good price, two adjoining rooms at the Holiday Inn and plane tickets for all six of us. Why Holiday Inn....because all four boys can eat there for free for breakfast and dinner!!! Another bonus!!!! Third, he used a great tip from our friend Tisha, to buy us 4 day passes to Disney World, plus a one day pass to a specialty park. The cost of these tickets was nearly half what it would have cost had we bought the tickets at full price.
What a wonderful, fabulous, exciting time we had as a family! So many memories were made there. One of the best memories of all was how the trip began.
This trip was a complete surprise to the boys. We kept it hush, hush around them. So, the Friday after Thanksgiving, the boys spent the night with my mom and dad so that Sean and I could pack up everything for the trip. On Saturday, Mimi and Papa (my mom and dad) spent the day entertaining the boys. They nonchalantly mentioned that they wanted to take the boys to see the new airport. As they walked through the mid-way, checking out all the new structures and all the people, heads bobbing from left to right, and up and down to see this impressive place......there stood Sean and me. One by one their eyes fell on us and all the backpacks and suitcases surrounding us. "What are you guys doing here?" they asked. "Oh, we thought it would be a good time to take a trip. Anyone want to go to Disney World?"
The looks on their faces and there expressions were priceless.
"You mean, now! You mean, all of us!"
"We're going today......in a plane!!"
"What?! What?! Are you serious?"
"Mommy, did you pack my swimsuit?"
Nearly every day we'd call Mimi and Papa to tell them of the previous days festivities and the plans for our new day. They enjoyed the updates. Of course, their heartstrings were pulled each time they spoke to Parker. "Mimi, you really need to come down here with us. Can't you just come down tomorrow? You'd really like it here."
Thursday, November 6, 2008
A Beautiful Thing
To match each parent to the areas of service God has uniquely gifted him/her, in order for the various parts of God’s family to work together for His glory.
That is one of the purposes of the Homeschool Co-op we attend. This year our group added 16 new families, we began meeting in a new location, and we took our junior high and high school group in a new direction. There were plenty of reasons why it could have been a rocky start.
But...
But, God....
Our co-op has witnessed each parent using the unique gifts God has given her, and we've been blessed by 'the various parts of God's family working together for His glory.' And it is a beautiful thing. I am truly thankful for all the families who make up our group.
Recently, I attended a women's retreat from my sister's church. The ladies who met together and planned the retreat did such a great job. It was another example to me of each one using the unique gifts God has given her. I watched as 'the various parts of God's family worked together for His glory' and I was encouraged. It was a beautiful thing.
We were meant to live our daily lives with 'the various parts of God's family working together for His glory.' Can you imagine if each member in a family was able to live his or her life in this manner? It would be a beautiful thing.
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My prayer is that those who are seeking would seek even more,
That those who are looking would look past the shore,
That the gifts that You've given would show themselves true,
And not lie unnoticed from lack of good use.
Give us strength to go forward, though mistakes, they will come.
May we give grace to all men, and not just to some.
Lord, strengthen the family...What a beautiful thing!
When we work for Your glory and crown you as King.
********
Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. I Peter 4:8-10
That is one of the purposes of the Homeschool Co-op we attend. This year our group added 16 new families, we began meeting in a new location, and we took our junior high and high school group in a new direction. There were plenty of reasons why it could have been a rocky start.
But...
But, God....
Our co-op has witnessed each parent using the unique gifts God has given her, and we've been blessed by 'the various parts of God's family working together for His glory.' And it is a beautiful thing. I am truly thankful for all the families who make up our group.
Recently, I attended a women's retreat from my sister's church. The ladies who met together and planned the retreat did such a great job. It was another example to me of each one using the unique gifts God has given her. I watched as 'the various parts of God's family worked together for His glory' and I was encouraged. It was a beautiful thing.
We were meant to live our daily lives with 'the various parts of God's family working together for His glory.' Can you imagine if each member in a family was able to live his or her life in this manner? It would be a beautiful thing.
********
My prayer is that those who are seeking would seek even more,
That those who are looking would look past the shore,
That the gifts that You've given would show themselves true,
And not lie unnoticed from lack of good use.
Give us strength to go forward, though mistakes, they will come.
May we give grace to all men, and not just to some.
Lord, strengthen the family...What a beautiful thing!
When we work for Your glory and crown you as King.
********
Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. I Peter 4:8-10
Monday, November 3, 2008
He is Our Help
Talking about finances is not something I like to mention on this blog. But I must share the goodness of my God and how he has provided for our family in this area during this year.
The diagnosis of cancer can affect much more than the body. It certainly has the potential to affect the pocketbook. Yet, I am once again reminded that God is our provider.....in all things.
At the beginning of this year, anticipating the extra expenses and the decrease in income, we readjusted our mortgage so that our property taxes were no longer included in the monthly payment. That certainly helped get us through the many months that I was not working. But of course, November was approaching. That's when the property taxes were due....and we owe on two properties (which is another long story). Every time we set aside money for that payment, a new medical expense would come through and deplete our savings.
My mom and dad gave us an unexpected monetary gift in the spring. That helped pay for many of the expenses that we had been putting on our VISA and lifted a heavy load.
Sean has great insurance through his company. I praise God for that provision. But even with his insurance, our out-of-pocket expenses have been hefty. For the most part, we have been able to stay on top of them. How? Well, by God's provision, of course. Sean had submitted a resume months ago for an adjunct teacher's position at a local technical college. He was surprised to get a call just a couple of weeks before the fall session started. Within days, he taught a mock class in front of the administrators of the school and was offered the teaching job. In fact, they asked him to teach the same class in two of their locations. Of course, this did not get in the way of Sean's day job! He has worked diligently and been able to work his regular job AND teach two classes each week! God has been so good to work this out for him.....for us. It's been a sacrifice on all of us, but through his second job, we have been able to keep up with most of the medical bills that have come through.....but we still haven't been able to put anything back for those pesky property taxes.
How did God provide for those? Well, he sent the Sweet Melissa Foundation. Two weeks ago, Sweet Melissa came to our house with a check for $3000. WOW!!! That's really all I can say.....WOW!!! We were so humbled and appreciative of this gift for we know that it took many hands many hours to put it all together.....and even more hands and more generous hearts to bring it to fruition. WOW!!!
We did all that we could do to get through this tough year......but all we could do was not enough. It was God who orchestrated everything and took care of us. He provided us the opportunity to re-finance at the beginning of the year, He provided through my Mom and Dad, He provided through Sean's teaching job, and He provided through the Sweet Melissa Foundation. He has provided in soooooooooo many other ways. I give Him the glory and I say, "Thank You, Lord!"
***********
We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. May your unfailing love rest upon us, O Lord, even as we put our hope in you. Psalm 33:20-22
The diagnosis of cancer can affect much more than the body. It certainly has the potential to affect the pocketbook. Yet, I am once again reminded that God is our provider.....in all things.
At the beginning of this year, anticipating the extra expenses and the decrease in income, we readjusted our mortgage so that our property taxes were no longer included in the monthly payment. That certainly helped get us through the many months that I was not working. But of course, November was approaching. That's when the property taxes were due....and we owe on two properties (which is another long story). Every time we set aside money for that payment, a new medical expense would come through and deplete our savings.
My mom and dad gave us an unexpected monetary gift in the spring. That helped pay for many of the expenses that we had been putting on our VISA and lifted a heavy load.
Sean has great insurance through his company. I praise God for that provision. But even with his insurance, our out-of-pocket expenses have been hefty. For the most part, we have been able to stay on top of them. How? Well, by God's provision, of course. Sean had submitted a resume months ago for an adjunct teacher's position at a local technical college. He was surprised to get a call just a couple of weeks before the fall session started. Within days, he taught a mock class in front of the administrators of the school and was offered the teaching job. In fact, they asked him to teach the same class in two of their locations. Of course, this did not get in the way of Sean's day job! He has worked diligently and been able to work his regular job AND teach two classes each week! God has been so good to work this out for him.....for us. It's been a sacrifice on all of us, but through his second job, we have been able to keep up with most of the medical bills that have come through.....but we still haven't been able to put anything back for those pesky property taxes.
How did God provide for those? Well, he sent the Sweet Melissa Foundation. Two weeks ago, Sweet Melissa came to our house with a check for $3000. WOW!!! That's really all I can say.....WOW!!! We were so humbled and appreciative of this gift for we know that it took many hands many hours to put it all together.....and even more hands and more generous hearts to bring it to fruition. WOW!!!
We did all that we could do to get through this tough year......but all we could do was not enough. It was God who orchestrated everything and took care of us. He provided us the opportunity to re-finance at the beginning of the year, He provided through my Mom and Dad, He provided through Sean's teaching job, and He provided through the Sweet Melissa Foundation. He has provided in soooooooooo many other ways. I give Him the glory and I say, "Thank You, Lord!"
***********
We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. May your unfailing love rest upon us, O Lord, even as we put our hope in you. Psalm 33:20-22
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Popping-Up
My second son, Trevor, celebrated his ninth birthday this week. I can't believe how quickly time has gone by, how quickly he has grown. Of all my boys, he seems to have his growth roots dug into the richest soil.
To celebrate his special day, we started with our tradition of daddy taking the birthday boy out to breakfast. Then a few days later, on Friday night, Trevor had some of his friends come over for a birthday party/sleep over.
We were supposed to be camping this weekend with some friends and their church family, but Spencer had a play-off football game on Saturday afternoon. It's been a tradition for the last few years to go camping in October with these friends. We only see them once or twice a year, but they are like family. I was the most bummed for having to miss the camping trip. "We can do it, Sean. We can still camp and then drive back for the game. " I tried, but I knew he was right. Yes, I'm whining and complaining. It's not an attractive quality. I should stop.
Anyway, we decided to pop up our camper next to the house and let Trevor and his buddies spend the night in it. We stocked the refrigerator with Gatorade and put out some yummy snacks. After pizza, presents, cupcakes, ice cream, and a few hours of playing outside, the boys went right into the camper for a game of Risk while watching Star Wars IV (on the smallest TV/VCR set possible....I think it's a 9 inch screen!!!) Most of them were up by 6:30 this morning, but they just hung out in the camper playing games. Sean and I slept until 8:15!!! It was time for pancakes and sausage, and then a few rounds of 'Capture the Flag.' Those boys had a blast!!! Sean and I decided this was the best way for the boys to celebrate with their friends.
Tomorrow, we'll have our final celebration for Trevor's ninth birthday (and his cousin's thirteenth birthday). My mom is cooking up a mighty fine lunch for everyone at her house. It's not every year that the boys get to celebrate their birthday three times.....but it's not every year that you turn nine, either!
Happy Birthday to My Treasure!
To celebrate his special day, we started with our tradition of daddy taking the birthday boy out to breakfast. Then a few days later, on Friday night, Trevor had some of his friends come over for a birthday party/sleep over.
We were supposed to be camping this weekend with some friends and their church family, but Spencer had a play-off football game on Saturday afternoon. It's been a tradition for the last few years to go camping in October with these friends. We only see them once or twice a year, but they are like family. I was the most bummed for having to miss the camping trip. "We can do it, Sean. We can still camp and then drive back for the game. " I tried, but I knew he was right. Yes, I'm whining and complaining. It's not an attractive quality. I should stop.
Anyway, we decided to pop up our camper next to the house and let Trevor and his buddies spend the night in it. We stocked the refrigerator with Gatorade and put out some yummy snacks. After pizza, presents, cupcakes, ice cream, and a few hours of playing outside, the boys went right into the camper for a game of Risk while watching Star Wars IV (on the smallest TV/VCR set possible....I think it's a 9 inch screen!!!) Most of them were up by 6:30 this morning, but they just hung out in the camper playing games. Sean and I slept until 8:15!!! It was time for pancakes and sausage, and then a few rounds of 'Capture the Flag.' Those boys had a blast!!! Sean and I decided this was the best way for the boys to celebrate with their friends.
Tomorrow, we'll have our final celebration for Trevor's ninth birthday (and his cousin's thirteenth birthday). My mom is cooking up a mighty fine lunch for everyone at her house. It's not every year that the boys get to celebrate their birthday three times.....but it's not every year that you turn nine, either!
Happy Birthday to My Treasure!
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Softball Tournament
Yesterday was the Women's Slow-Pitch Softball Tournament. It was wonderful! The Sweet Melissa Foundation did an excellent job organizing everything. There were twelve teams all together. The weather was PERFECT!!
One thing many of my team members realized as the day progressed.....our bodies ain't what they used to be!!! The problem was that our minds weren't aware of this dilemma. On one occasion there was a fly ball coming into the outfield, right between me and my friend Julie. I ran toward it like I would have twenty years ago, truly convinced that I could catch it. HA!! The ball went right on past me while I continued running. Of course, now I was going in the wrong direction, but I couldn't stop myself. In fact, I was certain that at any moment I would tumble head over heals and eventually find myself flat on the ground or, worse yet, smashed into the fence. Whew! It was close. I used every muscle fiber in my legs that hasn't been used for the last 10 years to slow down. And today...I'm paying for it. Ouch! But it's okay. It was SO MUCH FUN!!!
Team Chellebugs didn't come home with the winning trophy, but we had a lot of fun trying!
To my Teammates (in order of how long I've known you):
Thank you, Kelly, Kris and Angie!! (37 years) .....
Thank you, Julie and Caryn!! (~32 years) .....
Thank you, Alicia (22 years) and McKenzie (18 years)!! ....
Thank you, Sandy (19 years)!!.....
Thank you, Celia (13 years) and Ursula (12 years)!!......
Thank you, Ronda (~9 years) and Cindy (~1 year)!!.....
Thank you, Mary Beth, April and Alicia (for coming out and supporting me even though we'd never met before)!!
To my 'Support Staff' (:)):
Thank you Dad and Mike for coaching!! Thanks for making me sit the bench from time to time, too. That was a good idea! Thank you Mike for helping Mom with the scorekeeping. Thank you Mom for being our cheerleader and supplier of all things (bubble gum, sunscreen, drinks!!). Thank you Riley for being the best bat girl! And thank you, Tiffini, Miriam, Erin, Jeff, and Kevin for hanging out at the diamonds all day! And Sean....you are my all time #1 favorite fan....Thank you for helping me be a part of this day! And Thank you to so many more of you who came out during the day to watch the event. And finally, thank you to those who supported the event with your time, your talents and your treasures.
Well, now I must try to get up from this chair and get to bed. It'll be hard. This body of mine ain't what it used to be. Every muscle from head to toe is screaming with every move I make!!
One thing many of my team members realized as the day progressed.....our bodies ain't what they used to be!!! The problem was that our minds weren't aware of this dilemma. On one occasion there was a fly ball coming into the outfield, right between me and my friend Julie. I ran toward it like I would have twenty years ago, truly convinced that I could catch it. HA!! The ball went right on past me while I continued running. Of course, now I was going in the wrong direction, but I couldn't stop myself. In fact, I was certain that at any moment I would tumble head over heals and eventually find myself flat on the ground or, worse yet, smashed into the fence. Whew! It was close. I used every muscle fiber in my legs that hasn't been used for the last 10 years to slow down. And today...I'm paying for it. Ouch! But it's okay. It was SO MUCH FUN!!!
Team Chellebugs didn't come home with the winning trophy, but we had a lot of fun trying!
To my Teammates (in order of how long I've known you):
Thank you, Kelly, Kris and Angie!! (37 years) .....
Thank you, Julie and Caryn!! (~32 years) .....
Thank you, Alicia (22 years) and McKenzie (18 years)!! ....
Thank you, Sandy (19 years)!!.....
Thank you, Celia (13 years) and Ursula (12 years)!!......
Thank you, Ronda (~9 years) and Cindy (~1 year)!!.....
Thank you, Mary Beth, April and Alicia (for coming out and supporting me even though we'd never met before)!!
To my 'Support Staff' (:)):
Thank you Dad and Mike for coaching!! Thanks for making me sit the bench from time to time, too. That was a good idea! Thank you Mike for helping Mom with the scorekeeping. Thank you Mom for being our cheerleader and supplier of all things (bubble gum, sunscreen, drinks!!). Thank you Riley for being the best bat girl! And thank you, Tiffini, Miriam, Erin, Jeff, and Kevin for hanging out at the diamonds all day! And Sean....you are my all time #1 favorite fan....Thank you for helping me be a part of this day! And Thank you to so many more of you who came out during the day to watch the event. And finally, thank you to those who supported the event with your time, your talents and your treasures.
Well, now I must try to get up from this chair and get to bed. It'll be hard. This body of mine ain't what it used to be. Every muscle from head to toe is screaming with every move I make!!
Friday, September 12, 2008
To Die is Gain
Before I explain my title, I wanted to thank many of you who have been emailing me and asking how I am. Now that homeschool is back in session things have been rather busy here. Between schooling and football practices and other extracurricular activities......treatments, doctor and physical therapy appointments.....oh, yes, and the never ending cycles of life (the dish cycle, the washing cycle, and the eating and cleaning cycles)......well, I haven't had much time to do my 'blog' therapy. I've missed it.
Tomorrow (Saturday) is the 2nd Annual Striking Out Breast Cancer Tournament through the Sweet Melissa Foundation. We continue to pray that the rain will miss us!!!
I've struggled with how to share the following information. It just breaks my heart. One of the benefitting families for the tournament has recently had a tremendous loss. Yvonne, a wife and mother of four, lost her fight with cancer almost 2 weeks ago. Although I didn't know Yvonne, as I'd only met her once, I could tell that she was a beautiful, kind-hearted person. My heart just broke for her family when I heard the news. Please, pray for Yvonne's family as they continue to grieve.
When I was first diagnosed with breast cancer, death crossed my mind.......for a moment. And with that thought came the verse from Philippians, the epistle written by Paul as he awaited his trial. He wrote in Chapter 1, verses 20-22:
"I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know!"
I think of Yvonne again. And I say, "You go, girl! You fought with courage, and now you have been set free!"
I think of Yvonne's family again, and I grieve with them. For it's never easy for those of us on this side of the finish line.
Tomorrow (Saturday) is the 2nd Annual Striking Out Breast Cancer Tournament through the Sweet Melissa Foundation. We continue to pray that the rain will miss us!!!
I've struggled with how to share the following information. It just breaks my heart. One of the benefitting families for the tournament has recently had a tremendous loss. Yvonne, a wife and mother of four, lost her fight with cancer almost 2 weeks ago. Although I didn't know Yvonne, as I'd only met her once, I could tell that she was a beautiful, kind-hearted person. My heart just broke for her family when I heard the news. Please, pray for Yvonne's family as they continue to grieve.
When I was first diagnosed with breast cancer, death crossed my mind.......for a moment. And with that thought came the verse from Philippians, the epistle written by Paul as he awaited his trial. He wrote in Chapter 1, verses 20-22:
"I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know!"
I think of Yvonne again. And I say, "You go, girl! You fought with courage, and now you have been set free!"
I think of Yvonne's family again, and I grieve with them. For it's never easy for those of us on this side of the finish line.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Screaming Therapy
A couple of weeks ago we had the rare opportunity to take off for three days. We packed up the pop-up camper and headed south to Lincoln State Park and Holiday World. I checked with my surgeon prior to 'take-off' and she said that I was 'cleared' to ride any roller coaster I wanted to. My port wouldn't be a problem. Yippee!!!
We had a BLAST!!!!! At first, I took Brenner and Parker to ride all of the kiddie rides and Sean took Spencer and Trevor to ride the BIG rides. After awhile, we discovered that Parker was tall enough to ride most of the BIG rides if an adult rode with him. He was begging me and I was easily persuaded.
So, I did.
And I screamed the entire ride!
When Parker found out that you could wait in line to sit in the front seat, he begged, "Please, Mommy! Let's go on the Raven!"
So, I did. And we sat in the front.
And I screamed the entire ride!
By then, the whole family was back together, so we walked over to another BIG ride. The Voyage. Spencer had had enough of the big rides by this point. He stayed with Brenner while the rest of us jumped into line. (Thankfully, it wasn't a crowded day and we didn't have to wait long for any of the rides).
Trevor said, "Will you ride with me, mommy?"......"Absolutely," I said.
So, I did.
And I screamed the entire ride!
Wow! What a day! I think that was the best cancer therapy I've had yet. You can really let out a lot of unsuspecting, pent up anxiety with unadulterated screaming. Whew! I know the boys had a great trip, but of all of us, I enjoyed it the most!
We had a BLAST!!!!! At first, I took Brenner and Parker to ride all of the kiddie rides and Sean took Spencer and Trevor to ride the BIG rides. After awhile, we discovered that Parker was tall enough to ride most of the BIG rides if an adult rode with him. He was begging me and I was easily persuaded.
So, I did.
And I screamed the entire ride!
When Parker found out that you could wait in line to sit in the front seat, he begged, "Please, Mommy! Let's go on the Raven!"
So, I did. And we sat in the front.
And I screamed the entire ride!
By then, the whole family was back together, so we walked over to another BIG ride. The Voyage. Spencer had had enough of the big rides by this point. He stayed with Brenner while the rest of us jumped into line. (Thankfully, it wasn't a crowded day and we didn't have to wait long for any of the rides).
Trevor said, "Will you ride with me, mommy?"......"Absolutely," I said.
So, I did.
And I screamed the entire ride!
Wow! What a day! I think that was the best cancer therapy I've had yet. You can really let out a lot of unsuspecting, pent up anxiety with unadulterated screaming. Whew! I know the boys had a great trip, but of all of us, I enjoyed it the most!
Monday, August 25, 2008
Snakes, Snails...and Soy Sauce?
My family has been so blessed during this journey with wonderful homecooked meals from many people. I can not begin to explain how much they lifted a burden during the more intense times of my treatment. We even had several meals come precooked and ready for the freezer so that we could pull them out whenever we needed them.
Of course, the boys haven't always seen these gestures of love as favorable. There's something about seeing food prepared in a way you've never had it that can really mess with a kid's palate. Overall, I'd say they did well, though. I never did have to make something different for them to eat....though on occasion I did have to butter some extra pieces of bread! :)
A few months ago, the boys started mentioning that they really missed the meals that I cooked. As sweet as that was to hear, I had to laugh because cooking has never been one of my strengths. Even Sean was a little perplexed when he heard their requests. He should know. He grew up with a mom who could make a feast out of nothing, and then he married me....As long as I keep a good supply of ketchup, barbeque sauce and soy sauce handy, Sean is content with whatever I make. Bless him, Lord, for being so gracious to me!
Tonight, I made one of their all time favorites. It's called 'Snakes, Snails, and Puppy Dog Tails.' Honestly, I have no idea why we named it that. It's a mixture of peas, rice and pieces of polska kielbalsa. There's still controversy at the table as to which ingredients are the snakes, which are the snails, and which are the puppy dog tails. How sweet it was to see my Parker's eyes light up when he saw what I was cooking! With great anticipation, he ran to tell all of his brothers.
We sat at the table. All six of us. Five of us barely able to keep our forks out of our bowls before the prayer.
Then after we prayed, the sixth said....with a smile...."Could you pass the soy sauce, please?"
Of course, the boys haven't always seen these gestures of love as favorable. There's something about seeing food prepared in a way you've never had it that can really mess with a kid's palate. Overall, I'd say they did well, though. I never did have to make something different for them to eat....though on occasion I did have to butter some extra pieces of bread! :)
A few months ago, the boys started mentioning that they really missed the meals that I cooked. As sweet as that was to hear, I had to laugh because cooking has never been one of my strengths. Even Sean was a little perplexed when he heard their requests. He should know. He grew up with a mom who could make a feast out of nothing, and then he married me....As long as I keep a good supply of ketchup, barbeque sauce and soy sauce handy, Sean is content with whatever I make. Bless him, Lord, for being so gracious to me!
Tonight, I made one of their all time favorites. It's called 'Snakes, Snails, and Puppy Dog Tails.' Honestly, I have no idea why we named it that. It's a mixture of peas, rice and pieces of polska kielbalsa. There's still controversy at the table as to which ingredients are the snakes, which are the snails, and which are the puppy dog tails. How sweet it was to see my Parker's eyes light up when he saw what I was cooking! With great anticipation, he ran to tell all of his brothers.
We sat at the table. All six of us. Five of us barely able to keep our forks out of our bowls before the prayer.
Then after we prayed, the sixth said....with a smile...."Could you pass the soy sauce, please?"
Sunday, August 24, 2008
The Best Barber
I've taken all of my boys for their first haircuts. What a sweet memory of them sitting in the big chair, wrapped in their smocks, eyes wide open and then sometimes shut tight as the beautician trimmed away their baby hairs that had grown for so long. Each one emerged as a new creation....no longer my babies, but toddlers. Ready to take on the world with attitude!
Well last week, I experienced my 'first' haircut since chemotherapy. I sat in a big chair and was wrapped in a smock. Sometimes my eyes were wide open and then sometimes shut as the barber trimmed around my tender ears. My hair hasn't been growing for too long, but it was becoming unruly on the borders. It needed a pick me up.
The best part of the ENTIRE experience was having my new hairs trimmed by the Best and Most Seasoned Barber in Broadripple.....my Grampa Jude! He is so dear to me! Grampa, who is in his eighties, continues to work three days each week at the barber shop. He's been cutting some of his patron's hairs for over 50 years!!
I surprised him when I walked in after my dad on that Monday afternoon. He didn't hesitate to help me out. He trimmed my frizzled fringes and had me looking good again. I walked out of there ready to take on the world! Thank you, Grampa!
And, Dad, thank you for the wonderful trip there and back on your motorcycle! I really enjoyed your company and the sweet ride!
Well last week, I experienced my 'first' haircut since chemotherapy. I sat in a big chair and was wrapped in a smock. Sometimes my eyes were wide open and then sometimes shut as the barber trimmed around my tender ears. My hair hasn't been growing for too long, but it was becoming unruly on the borders. It needed a pick me up.
The best part of the ENTIRE experience was having my new hairs trimmed by the Best and Most Seasoned Barber in Broadripple.....my Grampa Jude! He is so dear to me! Grampa, who is in his eighties, continues to work three days each week at the barber shop. He's been cutting some of his patron's hairs for over 50 years!!
I surprised him when I walked in after my dad on that Monday afternoon. He didn't hesitate to help me out. He trimmed my frizzled fringes and had me looking good again. I walked out of there ready to take on the world! Thank you, Grampa!
And, Dad, thank you for the wonderful trip there and back on your motorcycle! I really enjoyed your company and the sweet ride!
Monday, July 7, 2008
General Ramblings and Praises
I've had plenty of ideas to posts....just not enough time to put them down. I did want to mention some praise reports.
*My port finally feels at home in my body....just under my left collar bone and beside my sternum. No more strange feelings when I turn my head or laugh or cough. In the last week I've even been able to lie down on my belly for about an hour at a time at night. I haven't been able to do that comfortably for almost eight months.
*My radiation treatments are going well. I've completed 13 and have 15 to go. There's been minimal darkening of the skin in the radiated area and only a minor irritation in the area under my armpit.
*My hair keeps growing!!! Look out for 'Ode to My Hair' Part IV!!!
*A dear friend of mine and her family is having a ladies softball tournament in Brownsburg on September 13th. The proceeds are to benefit 4 families, including mine. If you want more information, you can check out her foundation's website at: www.sweetmelissafoundation.org
I just had to mention a conversation I had over the weekend with Grama while Parker sat with us enjoying his popsicle. I said something about 'putting my foot in my mouth,' and Parker interjected, "Oh, yeah.....I've done that!" Grama and I laughed hysterically. We knew Parker was not thinking of figurative feet!!!!
May you find joy in your day today. Even in the midst of the heaviest of life's circumstances, may an unexpected smile tweak your face and a giggle cross your path. May you place your burdens at the feet of Jesus and leave them there for Him to carry.
********
"Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens. Our God is a God who saves; from the Sovereign Lord comes escape from death." Psalm 68:19-20
Jesus speaking to his disciples....."Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete." John 16:17
*My port finally feels at home in my body....just under my left collar bone and beside my sternum. No more strange feelings when I turn my head or laugh or cough. In the last week I've even been able to lie down on my belly for about an hour at a time at night. I haven't been able to do that comfortably for almost eight months.
*My radiation treatments are going well. I've completed 13 and have 15 to go. There's been minimal darkening of the skin in the radiated area and only a minor irritation in the area under my armpit.
*My hair keeps growing!!! Look out for 'Ode to My Hair' Part IV!!!
*A dear friend of mine and her family is having a ladies softball tournament in Brownsburg on September 13th. The proceeds are to benefit 4 families, including mine. If you want more information, you can check out her foundation's website at: www.sweetmelissafoundation.org
I just had to mention a conversation I had over the weekend with Grama while Parker sat with us enjoying his popsicle. I said something about 'putting my foot in my mouth,' and Parker interjected, "Oh, yeah.....I've done that!" Grama and I laughed hysterically. We knew Parker was not thinking of figurative feet!!!!
May you find joy in your day today. Even in the midst of the heaviest of life's circumstances, may an unexpected smile tweak your face and a giggle cross your path. May you place your burdens at the feet of Jesus and leave them there for Him to carry.
********
"Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens. Our God is a God who saves; from the Sovereign Lord comes escape from death." Psalm 68:19-20
Jesus speaking to his disciples....."Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete." John 16:17
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
A Nice Break
Last week didn't turn out as I had planned......and that's a good thing. Initially, I thought I'd have a week to myself without any of the boys. I'd have time to get my house back in order, time to get in some important planning meetings for the homeschool co-op, and time to read a good book and rest. Trevor's unexpected trip to the ER changed that.
Spencer went off to Church Camp without Trevor. Parker and Brenner went off with Mimi and Papaw for a week of camping. Sean was in and out of town with his work. Trevor and I stayed home.
It turns out that Spencer had a blast on his trip to Wise, West Virginia. He went caving and swimming, completed a ropes course and ate LOTS of food....More importantly, he had the opportunity to 'grow in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.' (Luke 2:52) He grew up just a little bit more while he was away. I'm so proud of Spencer.
Parker and Brenner had a blast on their trip to Turkey Run and Raccoon Lake with Mimi and Papaw. They rode bikes, splashed in the lake, played at the playground, met new friends and ate LOTS of food.....More importantly, they had a special time with their grandparents.....What a wonderful memory they will have of their trip in the big RV with Mimi and Papaw!!!!! Brenner, at 4 1/2, learned how to ride without his training wheels on the trip. Boy, was he excited to show us his new feat when he got home. "Children's children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children." (Prov. 17:6) "Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commands." (Deut. 7:9) I'm so proud of Parker and Brenner.
Trevor had a blast staying home. He spent two days and one night with one of his best buddies. He had a date just with me, some time just with his daddy, and a date with me and his daddy.....ALL in one week. He certainly doesn't usually get that kind of one-on-one time. I'm so glad he had it!!! Of all my boys, he asks the least of me. I'm a busy mom, and sometimes I forget to take the extra one-on-one time that really ministers to the spirits of my boys. "Even a child is known by his actions, by whether his conduct is pure and right." (Proverbs 20:11) I'm so proud of Trevor.
I had a blast, too. I had time to organize some of my house and attend some important meetings, time to visit with friends and read part of book, and time to rest. But most importantly, I had time for Trevor.
Thank you, Lord!!
**********
I read this morning that 'sons will be like olive shoots around your table.' (Ps 128:3). Well, I don't know how fast olive shoots grow, but if its anything like my boys.....look out!!! In the last three months, the boys collectively have grown 2 1/2 inches!!! Trevor grew 1 inch. Brenner grew 3/4 inch. Parker grew 1/2 inch. Spencer grew 1/4 inch. If they keep this up they'll be all grown and out the door in no time!!!.....oh, I miss them already! :)
Spencer went off to Church Camp without Trevor. Parker and Brenner went off with Mimi and Papaw for a week of camping. Sean was in and out of town with his work. Trevor and I stayed home.
It turns out that Spencer had a blast on his trip to Wise, West Virginia. He went caving and swimming, completed a ropes course and ate LOTS of food....More importantly, he had the opportunity to 'grow in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.' (Luke 2:52) He grew up just a little bit more while he was away. I'm so proud of Spencer.
Parker and Brenner had a blast on their trip to Turkey Run and Raccoon Lake with Mimi and Papaw. They rode bikes, splashed in the lake, played at the playground, met new friends and ate LOTS of food.....More importantly, they had a special time with their grandparents.....What a wonderful memory they will have of their trip in the big RV with Mimi and Papaw!!!!! Brenner, at 4 1/2, learned how to ride without his training wheels on the trip. Boy, was he excited to show us his new feat when he got home. "Children's children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children." (Prov. 17:6) "Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commands." (Deut. 7:9) I'm so proud of Parker and Brenner.
Trevor had a blast staying home. He spent two days and one night with one of his best buddies. He had a date just with me, some time just with his daddy, and a date with me and his daddy.....ALL in one week. He certainly doesn't usually get that kind of one-on-one time. I'm so glad he had it!!! Of all my boys, he asks the least of me. I'm a busy mom, and sometimes I forget to take the extra one-on-one time that really ministers to the spirits of my boys. "Even a child is known by his actions, by whether his conduct is pure and right." (Proverbs 20:11) I'm so proud of Trevor.
I had a blast, too. I had time to organize some of my house and attend some important meetings, time to visit with friends and read part of book, and time to rest. But most importantly, I had time for Trevor.
Thank you, Lord!!
**********
I read this morning that 'sons will be like olive shoots around your table.' (Ps 128:3). Well, I don't know how fast olive shoots grow, but if its anything like my boys.....look out!!! In the last three months, the boys collectively have grown 2 1/2 inches!!! Trevor grew 1 inch. Brenner grew 3/4 inch. Parker grew 1/2 inch. Spencer grew 1/4 inch. If they keep this up they'll be all grown and out the door in no time!!!.....oh, I miss them already! :)
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Duck Walking 101
There are some basic do's and don't's a parent covers with their children as they grow up. Like, don't run with sharp objects, look before you cross the street, don't talk to strangers when mommy and daddy aren't around. For the hundreds of things that you DO talk to them about, there are millions of things that you just don't foresee happening.
Well, one of those millions of things happened to us this week. Although Sean and I have covered the one about not playing on the staircase, apparently we weren't specific enough. I was in the kitchen talking on the phone with Sean who was in Chicago, when we both heard the rumble, boom, crash, scream. Trevor had just fallen down the stairs and was screaming, "I can't look at it! I can't look at it!" I quickly told Sean, "I think Trevor just broke his arm. I've got to go!" Then I hung up and went into frantic mommy mode.
First......get Trevor calmed down. He was screaming, "Call 911. Take me to Riley," as he came around the corner. His left forearm was crooked and his arm was hanging limp by his side. No blood....that's good! After getting him comfortable on the couch, we moved on to step two.
Second....find someone to watch the other three boys. I made one call after another.....nobody was home. No time to leave messages. Got to hurry. In between unanswered rings, I was barking out orders to my oldest, one right after another......he wasn't sure which one to do first. (Looking back, I'm so proud of him. He did an amazing job considering my frantic state.) "Make an ice pack and get it on Trevor's arm.....Tell Parker to get out of the tub and get dressed......Run next door and see if you boys can go there." Praise God, Tammy was home!
Third.....get Trevor to the hospital. Now that we were safely in the car and on our way to the hospital, I had a chance to find out HOW Trevor came to tumbling down the stairs. Whereas my oldest can tell you one detail after another in relating a story, but has difficulty 'summing' it up, Trevor can 'sum' it all up in 10 words or less. Getting the details can be harder than pulling teeth! Just like his daddy, that one is!
Me: Trevor, what happened?
Trevor: I fell like a rock down the stairs.
Me: Yes, I heard you falling. But HOW did that happen?
Trevor: I don't know.
Me: What were you doing? We're you trying to slide head first?
Trevor: No..........It's hard to explain, mommy. Obviously he was still in a lot of pain from the trauma, and the fact that he couldn't move his arm to show me what he was doing, made it that much harder for him to describe.
Me: Honey, I want you to try really hard to think about what you were doing before you fell down the stairs. Can you tell me?
Trevor: You know how sometimes Brenner and me like to squat down like ducks and take little steps to our room. We were doing that.
Me: Did you just get too close to the stairs?
Trevor: No, I was trying to walk down the stairs like a duck. I got down one step and then I tried to hop down to the next one." Then with tears and the realization that he'd be in another cast for another long summer, "Why do these things happen to me? Why did God let me break my arm?"
Me: At this point I'm using every bit of restraint I have not to point out the obvious. A lecture wouldn't fix his arm or calm his fears. "Oh, honey, I know it hurts. We're almost to the hospital. They're going to take good care of you." And then I prayed that it would be so!
Trevor had to wait nearly 5 long hours before they could fix his arm. Initially they tried to do it with him awake. Nope, not gonna happen! So he had to wait for another emergency surgery to finish up before he was put under general anesthesia. The orthopedic doctor was able to realign the two broken forearm bones (without making any incisions) and then set the arm in a neon green cast. Trevor's not at all happy about his circumstances and the long summer ahead with a broken arm. He'll miss church camp next week and football for yet another season. No more swimming or riding his bike for several weeks. He's a trooper and will get through it, but I still feel so bad for him.
Looking back I realize that Trevor was pretty accurate with his 8-word description of the event. He did fall like a rock down the stairs......head over heels one time before crash landing. If you're a parent, you might want to add one more thing to your Parenting 101 list of do's and don't's. Don't duckwalk or duckhop down the stairs!
Thank you, Tammy, for taking care of my other three boys on such short notice. Thank you, Kelly and Jacob, Mom and Dad for coming to the hospital. You'll never really understand how that ministered to my Trevor. Dad, you're the best! Thank you for searching high and low for a deck of cards, for showing Trevor the secret to one of your card tricks, and for staying with me to the wee hours of the morning. Mom, you're my hero! Thank you for picking up the other three and getting them tucked safely into bed......and for being in Martha-mode with my laundry! :)
Well, one of those millions of things happened to us this week. Although Sean and I have covered the one about not playing on the staircase, apparently we weren't specific enough. I was in the kitchen talking on the phone with Sean who was in Chicago, when we both heard the rumble, boom, crash, scream. Trevor had just fallen down the stairs and was screaming, "I can't look at it! I can't look at it!" I quickly told Sean, "I think Trevor just broke his arm. I've got to go!" Then I hung up and went into frantic mommy mode.
First......get Trevor calmed down. He was screaming, "Call 911. Take me to Riley," as he came around the corner. His left forearm was crooked and his arm was hanging limp by his side. No blood....that's good! After getting him comfortable on the couch, we moved on to step two.
Second....find someone to watch the other three boys. I made one call after another.....nobody was home. No time to leave messages. Got to hurry. In between unanswered rings, I was barking out orders to my oldest, one right after another......he wasn't sure which one to do first. (Looking back, I'm so proud of him. He did an amazing job considering my frantic state.) "Make an ice pack and get it on Trevor's arm.....Tell Parker to get out of the tub and get dressed......Run next door and see if you boys can go there." Praise God, Tammy was home!
Third.....get Trevor to the hospital. Now that we were safely in the car and on our way to the hospital, I had a chance to find out HOW Trevor came to tumbling down the stairs. Whereas my oldest can tell you one detail after another in relating a story, but has difficulty 'summing' it up, Trevor can 'sum' it all up in 10 words or less. Getting the details can be harder than pulling teeth! Just like his daddy, that one is!
Me: Trevor, what happened?
Trevor: I fell like a rock down the stairs.
Me: Yes, I heard you falling. But HOW did that happen?
Trevor: I don't know.
Me: What were you doing? We're you trying to slide head first?
Trevor: No..........It's hard to explain, mommy. Obviously he was still in a lot of pain from the trauma, and the fact that he couldn't move his arm to show me what he was doing, made it that much harder for him to describe.
Me: Honey, I want you to try really hard to think about what you were doing before you fell down the stairs. Can you tell me?
Trevor: You know how sometimes Brenner and me like to squat down like ducks and take little steps to our room. We were doing that.
Me: Did you just get too close to the stairs?
Trevor: No, I was trying to walk down the stairs like a duck. I got down one step and then I tried to hop down to the next one." Then with tears and the realization that he'd be in another cast for another long summer, "Why do these things happen to me? Why did God let me break my arm?"
Me: At this point I'm using every bit of restraint I have not to point out the obvious. A lecture wouldn't fix his arm or calm his fears. "Oh, honey, I know it hurts. We're almost to the hospital. They're going to take good care of you." And then I prayed that it would be so!
Trevor had to wait nearly 5 long hours before they could fix his arm. Initially they tried to do it with him awake. Nope, not gonna happen! So he had to wait for another emergency surgery to finish up before he was put under general anesthesia. The orthopedic doctor was able to realign the two broken forearm bones (without making any incisions) and then set the arm in a neon green cast. Trevor's not at all happy about his circumstances and the long summer ahead with a broken arm. He'll miss church camp next week and football for yet another season. No more swimming or riding his bike for several weeks. He's a trooper and will get through it, but I still feel so bad for him.
Looking back I realize that Trevor was pretty accurate with his 8-word description of the event. He did fall like a rock down the stairs......head over heels one time before crash landing. If you're a parent, you might want to add one more thing to your Parenting 101 list of do's and don't's. Don't duckwalk or duckhop down the stairs!
Thank you, Tammy, for taking care of my other three boys on such short notice. Thank you, Kelly and Jacob, Mom and Dad for coming to the hospital. You'll never really understand how that ministered to my Trevor. Dad, you're the best! Thank you for searching high and low for a deck of cards, for showing Trevor the secret to one of your card tricks, and for staying with me to the wee hours of the morning. Mom, you're my hero! Thank you for picking up the other three and getting them tucked safely into bed......and for being in Martha-mode with my laundry! :)
Saturday, May 17, 2008
The Ultimate Survivor
My wonderful, gracious, and patient mother-in-law......may she be awarded a special medal of honor!!!.......anyway, as I was saying......My wonderful, kind, generous mother-in-law offered to watch my younger two boys for me while I healed up from my surgery.
So on Monday, April 28th, Sean and I met her on the north side of town. She drove over an hour to pick up my babies (okay, so they're 4 and 6....they're still my babies), and then whisked them away while visions of 'sugarplums' danced in their heads. You see the best things about Grama's house, besides Grama and Papa, are the endless reserves of Popsicles and homemade cookies.
At the end of each week, I'd call to talk to the boys and to check in with Grama. At the end of each call, the conversation would go something like this:
Me: Well, I'm doing a little better. When do you want us to pick up the boys?
Grama: Michelle (long pause), are you sure? I'll keep them another week if you need me to.
Me: (Long pause......tears beginning to form in my eyes....throat swelling as I attempt to hold back my emotions)....Are you sure?
Grama: Yes, I'm sure.
Me: (Crying)....Okay......
So, it's been almost THREE weeks. I have missed those boys. I couldn't stand it any longer. So, we drove up north today and picked them up. My how they have grown!!!! I just had to share the conversations Grama heard from my boys:
Parker: Grama, you have two chins!
(Grama was....well....a bit speechless. Before she could respond, Brenner said.......)
Brenner: Well, not really Parker. Really, it's only one.
******
Parker: Don't you know, Grama, they make cream nowadays for those wrinkles. You put it on and ...... poof!
******
Papa was going mushroom hunting with his special mushroom stick. Brenner, who still says the /d/ sound for the /st/ sound said, "Papa, let me see your /st/ick." Papa looked at him a bit confused. Brenner said it again, more emphatically, "Papa.....let me see your /st/ick!" Luckily, Grama was nearby and could translate for Papa.....before Papa thought to wash Brenner's mouth out with soap!!!!!
******
Brenner: Is Papa the boss of this house?
Grama: Yes.
Brenner: So.....you're the boss of Papa? And........you're the boss of the cat and Papa's the boss of the dog.
******
Brenner developed an itchy rash on his face and trunk (probably poison ivy from all the rolling around in the grass and running through the fir trees). So, Grama gave him plenty of oatmeal baths. On his last night, while lying on his back as he soaked in the tub, Brenner produced a matter-of-fact statement while demonstrating what his 'boy part' could do: "You know, Grama, it stretches."
******
Grama: I'm going to really miss you boys.
Brenner: Well, Grama, I will be in your heart and I will be in Papa's heart.
******
Parker: (When he found out he was coming back home....) I've had fun Grama, but I've got to get home and get some rest. All of this rough-housing has tuckered me out.
******
Parker: (When he saw me today) Yeah, Mommy, I taught Grama everything she didn't know.
Well, it's good to have ALL my boys home again. How I've missed them! I've re-thought the medal of honor that Grama should get. Really, when you think about it, she's had to outwit, outplay, and outlast a 4 year old and a 6 year old for over 20 days. She's the Ultimate Survivor. I'm sorry I don't have a million dollars to give you, Saundra.......but I know there are treasures in heaven just waiting for you!!!!!!
********
Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where, moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:19-21
So on Monday, April 28th, Sean and I met her on the north side of town. She drove over an hour to pick up my babies (okay, so they're 4 and 6....they're still my babies), and then whisked them away while visions of 'sugarplums' danced in their heads. You see the best things about Grama's house, besides Grama and Papa, are the endless reserves of Popsicles and homemade cookies.
At the end of each week, I'd call to talk to the boys and to check in with Grama. At the end of each call, the conversation would go something like this:
Me: Well, I'm doing a little better. When do you want us to pick up the boys?
Grama: Michelle (long pause), are you sure? I'll keep them another week if you need me to.
Me: (Long pause......tears beginning to form in my eyes....throat swelling as I attempt to hold back my emotions)....Are you sure?
Grama: Yes, I'm sure.
Me: (Crying)....Okay......
So, it's been almost THREE weeks. I have missed those boys. I couldn't stand it any longer. So, we drove up north today and picked them up. My how they have grown!!!! I just had to share the conversations Grama heard from my boys:
Parker: Grama, you have two chins!
(Grama was....well....a bit speechless. Before she could respond, Brenner said.......)
Brenner: Well, not really Parker. Really, it's only one.
******
Parker: Don't you know, Grama, they make cream nowadays for those wrinkles. You put it on and ...... poof!
******
Papa was going mushroom hunting with his special mushroom stick. Brenner, who still says the /d/ sound for the /st/ sound said, "Papa, let me see your /st/ick." Papa looked at him a bit confused. Brenner said it again, more emphatically, "Papa.....let me see your /st/ick!" Luckily, Grama was nearby and could translate for Papa.....before Papa thought to wash Brenner's mouth out with soap!!!!!
******
Brenner: Is Papa the boss of this house?
Grama: Yes.
Brenner: So.....you're the boss of Papa? And........you're the boss of the cat and Papa's the boss of the dog.
******
Brenner developed an itchy rash on his face and trunk (probably poison ivy from all the rolling around in the grass and running through the fir trees). So, Grama gave him plenty of oatmeal baths. On his last night, while lying on his back as he soaked in the tub, Brenner produced a matter-of-fact statement while demonstrating what his 'boy part' could do: "You know, Grama, it stretches."
******
Grama: I'm going to really miss you boys.
Brenner: Well, Grama, I will be in your heart and I will be in Papa's heart.
******
Parker: (When he found out he was coming back home....) I've had fun Grama, but I've got to get home and get some rest. All of this rough-housing has tuckered me out.
******
Parker: (When he saw me today) Yeah, Mommy, I taught Grama everything she didn't know.
Well, it's good to have ALL my boys home again. How I've missed them! I've re-thought the medal of honor that Grama should get. Really, when you think about it, she's had to outwit, outplay, and outlast a 4 year old and a 6 year old for over 20 days. She's the Ultimate Survivor. I'm sorry I don't have a million dollars to give you, Saundra.......but I know there are treasures in heaven just waiting for you!!!!!!
********
Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where, moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:19-21
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