We are 8 days in the one month when everyone publicly declares they are thankful. Unfortunately, I just can't do it right now. I'm so beyond overwhelmed with the Glory of God, that I just cannot possibly select one thing to be thankful for.
So today, I want to write about friendship. You see, I have this special friend that my heart is crying for right now. I have held onto this pain for her for several months now and haven't even responded to a couple of her cries for prayers just because I wanted the right words. Remember, I am a writer. Finding those words are difficult for me. Yeah, I plug out a good 2000 words a day if need be, but I can't seem to find the right words to help heal my friend's heart. I've done what I know how to do by calling out to Jesus for those words, but as you can see, they just aren't quite there yet. But He's speaking to me right at this very moment. I feel His presence and feel His charge. He's asked me to write this blog post for her. He's asked me to share love with her that I have held back in fear.
So, while the rest of this blog will be for my beautiful, sweet friend it will help you too. God is calling me to write this. It's not me. It's Him!
Sometimes it just isn't going to make sense.
"For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion." Romans 9:15
There are a lot of things about God that are difficult to understand. This verse shows one of those things. God selects certain people for certain things. He picks and chooses among people!
Sometimes we are at the feet of Jesus begging for something we feel we need, but it seems He is not listening. Sometimes we are seeking God's Will, asking him to remove everything that hinders us from being His servant, our life is upside down. It just does not make sense! Why isn't He protecting us from bad things? Why doesn't He rain down blessings on us? I mean, haven't we been obedient? Haven't we sought after Him even in those times of biggest stress? I think about Noah. God blessed him, right? Sometimes, like him, it makes sense. Noah was chosen because God saw that he was righteous (Genesis 7:1). Makes sense, right?
But think about it. I remember more examples in the Bible that just don't make sense when it comes to people getting what I believe they deserve.
Why would God choose Jacob over Esau?? Jacob tricked his father into blessing him by lying!! (Genesis 27:19). That makes no sense at all.
And what about Job. Wow. He certainly suffered for God to prove a point to Satan. Satan's a jerk. Why would God waste His time proving something to him?? That doesn't make sense.
The Israelites. They were tired. Tired of wandering in the wilderness. Tired of manna bread, manna burgers, manna cereal, manna, manna, manna. They complained and grumbled. God sent fiery snakes to bite them and they died (Numbers 21:4-6). WHAT? Holy cow, I've been frustrated before and am thankful that I survived that! They were just frustrated. That doesn't make sense.
Romans 9:18-21 says:
"Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he hardeneth. Thou wilt say then unto me, Why doth he yet find fault? For who hath resisted his will? Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus? Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour?"
When I stop and think about it, I see where God may just have known what He was doing, at least some of the time. For instance, the grumpy, frustrated Israelites, what if the grumbling isn't all they ended up doing. What if they all decided to go back to Egypt?
I can sit around and compare my life to other people and see where I have had some really awful things happen to me, things that seem to to be truly unfair, mean or just bizarre. The more I try to be in God's Will, the more things happen, it seems.
So, I should just give up and walk away from God because sometimes I feel like I am going crazy. Right? But wait a minute, WHY haven't I gone crazy? Why haven't I buckled under the load? I've not been squished like a bug, but why?
Despite the frustration, despite the sadness and utter uncontrol I have, God has sustained me. He is the Potter and I am the clay. Even if I can't see any good coming out of my trials, I must have faith that he knows what He is doing. Some of the trials have made me stronger, some have helped other people, and some have no results that I can see.
I doubt Job knew why God allowed all the sorrows to be heaped on him. The Bible doesn't say he knows that, so we have no reason to believe he did.
A scripture of encouragement:
"Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ."
2Cor 1:3-5
God WILL comfort us and help us through our trials and tribulations, my friends! At the very least, we will be able to have the strength to comfort others. Have you ever been able to minister to someone by saying, "Been there myself"? Sometimes that is the only way to reach out to someone.
Jesus suffered. Why do we think we are so better than He that we shouldn't??
So when the trials get heavier than you think you can hold, remember that God will keep you from being crushed completely flat. When you look back you will see His hand was there all along, holding you up.
My love goes out to my Sister in Christ. I hope this brings some encouragement to you to know that you are not alone in this and while it is easy for some to say it shall pass, I can say, I've been there Sister! You will not be crushed, so hold tight to the One who is always there for you, holding you up and loving you strong!
November 8, 2011
October 17, 2011
He made me cry
Let's start off in the beginning. 10 years ago Saturday, I fell in love all over again. With my sweet husband you ask? No, with the incredible sunshine in my life... my beautiful baby boy. After two years of battling with infertility and trying to ignore doctors who kept saying I would never have a baby, The Lord blessed me with the most incredible gift any woman could ask for. He made me a Mommy.
Each year, my son grows up more and more and shows me the continued blessing of being his Mom. I remember holding him in my arms as he slept (I know you aren't supposed to do that, but he isn't any worse for the wear!) and just praying over him for his safety and his life in general. I remember his first little smile and those first sweet little words (both in sign language and spoken). I remember those first little staggered steps and dancing to Brittney Spears on tv as he leaned on the ottoman. (I think I even have video of that one ;-) I remember crying on his first day of preschool and his first day of Kindergarten. I remember thinking just this year as school started that next year he will be in a different school.
All of these moments are always precious, but the moment I had with him last night will bring tears to my eyes forever. It was bedtime, and he went to his room to get ready. I went down to tuck him in (it's normally Wade who does that, so this was just different). When I reached the bottom of the steps, I realized that not only did he leave all the lights on, but he wasn't in his bed. When he heard me, he flew for the bed and tried to pretend he hadn't been crying. I walked in and asked him what was going on and his response will be with me forever. (fighting the tears to type this as it is one to keep and treasure) "I was talking to God, Mom. I was praying because I realized that I only have 8 more years." Those are the words that will forever stick with me- I only have 8 more years. I encouraged him to explain what he was talking about. He said he only has 8 more years before leaving for college and that meant only 8 more years with us as a family as it is today, only 8 more years of being my little boy. That was what was worrying my little fella. My sweet 10 year old could only think of the fact that in 8 years, he wouldn't be my baby anymore. I held him in my arms and told him he's becoming the best young man that God intended him to be and how very proud I am that when he was worried about it, the one thing he did was turn to God! I told him that I don't care how old he is, because he will always be my Sunshine and will always be my baby. I held him in my arms as if he were suddenly a newborn again, only this time I fought the tears. I was a strong Mom because that is just what my precious baby needed at that time. It seemed like an eternity that he let me hold him, and I just can't help but be emotional about it today as I think about how sad it must be to realize that one day you will no longer be a child. I don't remember it hitting me like that, but I do remember the day I realized I was the adult making the decisions.
Today, I pray for my baby, because he will always be my baby. And I pray that in his growth, he never forget the lessons of childhood that are clearly sinking in and that in times that are tough, he always turn to God, our Lord and Savior who has shown me blessings much more than I truly deserve! (And yes, I broke into tears after leaving that child's room- I'm human you know ;-)
Each year, my son grows up more and more and shows me the continued blessing of being his Mom. I remember holding him in my arms as he slept (I know you aren't supposed to do that, but he isn't any worse for the wear!) and just praying over him for his safety and his life in general. I remember his first little smile and those first sweet little words (both in sign language and spoken). I remember those first little staggered steps and dancing to Brittney Spears on tv as he leaned on the ottoman. (I think I even have video of that one ;-) I remember crying on his first day of preschool and his first day of Kindergarten. I remember thinking just this year as school started that next year he will be in a different school.
All of these moments are always precious, but the moment I had with him last night will bring tears to my eyes forever. It was bedtime, and he went to his room to get ready. I went down to tuck him in (it's normally Wade who does that, so this was just different). When I reached the bottom of the steps, I realized that not only did he leave all the lights on, but he wasn't in his bed. When he heard me, he flew for the bed and tried to pretend he hadn't been crying. I walked in and asked him what was going on and his response will be with me forever. (fighting the tears to type this as it is one to keep and treasure) "I was talking to God, Mom. I was praying because I realized that I only have 8 more years." Those are the words that will forever stick with me- I only have 8 more years. I encouraged him to explain what he was talking about. He said he only has 8 more years before leaving for college and that meant only 8 more years with us as a family as it is today, only 8 more years of being my little boy. That was what was worrying my little fella. My sweet 10 year old could only think of the fact that in 8 years, he wouldn't be my baby anymore. I held him in my arms and told him he's becoming the best young man that God intended him to be and how very proud I am that when he was worried about it, the one thing he did was turn to God! I told him that I don't care how old he is, because he will always be my Sunshine and will always be my baby. I held him in my arms as if he were suddenly a newborn again, only this time I fought the tears. I was a strong Mom because that is just what my precious baby needed at that time. It seemed like an eternity that he let me hold him, and I just can't help but be emotional about it today as I think about how sad it must be to realize that one day you will no longer be a child. I don't remember it hitting me like that, but I do remember the day I realized I was the adult making the decisions.
Today, I pray for my baby, because he will always be my baby. And I pray that in his growth, he never forget the lessons of childhood that are clearly sinking in and that in times that are tough, he always turn to God, our Lord and Savior who has shown me blessings much more than I truly deserve! (And yes, I broke into tears after leaving that child's room- I'm human you know ;-)
October 7, 2011
Lessons from John the Baptist
I have spent this entire week engrossed in studying the book of John for our junior high youth group. I am not teaching it, but I am assisting and hoping to bring more to the table for these awesome young men and women. As I sat here reading and thinking about John the Baptist, one thing stuck into my head. This is the man who baptized Our Lord and Savior! Seriously. How did that moment feel? I would truly love to have been a fly on the water's edge listening to that interchange.
Think about this. You are submerged and baptized in the Holy Spirit, but Jesus IS the Holy Spirit. So, how did that go? Did John stumble on his words? Your pastor always says, 'I baptize you in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit."
What were John's words? Did he say, I baptize you in ... um.. in.. you? hee hee. Not only is that a something that sticks out in my crazy brain, but imagine the overwhelming feeling of the Holy Spirit in that very moment. I get chill bumps thinking about it! The Bible says that as Jesus came up out of the water, heaven opened, and the Spirit of God, like a dove, descended upon him. Witnesses to the baptism heard a voice from heaven saying, "This is my son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased." The presence of God was right there. The Holy Spirit came down upon Jesus. That feeling had to be so powerful, so incredibly overwhelming and beautiful.
And John had devoted his entire life to preparing for the arrival of Jesus. He was a sight to look upon, I'm sure. He was like that fella in Peoria, IL where we used to live that they called Crazy Willie. He would come through and rant and rave and consistently point to Christ. Like a signpost pointing to The Father. He had focused all of his energy toward this very moment. While he was obedient, the very first thing that Jesus asked him to do made him pause. He resisted and felt unqualified.
My reflection then comes to myself. I love to work with the youth in my church. The little preschoolers on Sunday mornings where we get to have a ton of fun and learn the Bible basics! The older kids now in the evenings where I hope to see Jesus working miracles through their very lives. How qualified am I? Do you ever feel like that? Do you feel unqualified to fulfill your mission from God? John felt that he was even unworthy to unfasten the shoes of Jesus. Yet in Luke 7:28, Jesus called John the greatest of all prophets. My passion to work with children is important, and I pray Sunday that the kids hear the lesson and understand that despite how inadequate they may feel, how inadequate we all may feel, those feelings should never hold us back from our God appointed mission.
You never know who you are going to meet or what they are going to see when they look at you. You may be the only Bible people see. You may be the only Jesus people see. What are they seeing in you?
Think about this. You are submerged and baptized in the Holy Spirit, but Jesus IS the Holy Spirit. So, how did that go? Did John stumble on his words? Your pastor always says, 'I baptize you in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit."
What were John's words? Did he say, I baptize you in ... um.. in.. you? hee hee. Not only is that a something that sticks out in my crazy brain, but imagine the overwhelming feeling of the Holy Spirit in that very moment. I get chill bumps thinking about it! The Bible says that as Jesus came up out of the water, heaven opened, and the Spirit of God, like a dove, descended upon him. Witnesses to the baptism heard a voice from heaven saying, "This is my son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased." The presence of God was right there. The Holy Spirit came down upon Jesus. That feeling had to be so powerful, so incredibly overwhelming and beautiful.
And John had devoted his entire life to preparing for the arrival of Jesus. He was a sight to look upon, I'm sure. He was like that fella in Peoria, IL where we used to live that they called Crazy Willie. He would come through and rant and rave and consistently point to Christ. Like a signpost pointing to The Father. He had focused all of his energy toward this very moment. While he was obedient, the very first thing that Jesus asked him to do made him pause. He resisted and felt unqualified.
My reflection then comes to myself. I love to work with the youth in my church. The little preschoolers on Sunday mornings where we get to have a ton of fun and learn the Bible basics! The older kids now in the evenings where I hope to see Jesus working miracles through their very lives. How qualified am I? Do you ever feel like that? Do you feel unqualified to fulfill your mission from God? John felt that he was even unworthy to unfasten the shoes of Jesus. Yet in Luke 7:28, Jesus called John the greatest of all prophets. My passion to work with children is important, and I pray Sunday that the kids hear the lesson and understand that despite how inadequate they may feel, how inadequate we all may feel, those feelings should never hold us back from our God appointed mission.
You never know who you are going to meet or what they are going to see when they look at you. You may be the only Bible people see. You may be the only Jesus people see. What are they seeing in you?
September 30, 2011
Keep your chin up
I learned a very valuable lesson this month. How do you keep positive despite obstacles trying to knock you down? How do you just keep moving? As many of you know, I absolutely love the Mercy Me song "Move." It has been a great motivator for me since it came out and is keeps me moving in all walks of life.
But motivation hasn't come easy when I got my first cold of the season. What's a little cold you ask? It's a 2 weeks of can't do anything is what it is! This cold has been going around, and it most certainly takes away your get up and go! I don't know that I've had a simple cold hang on so terribly long. Started with the sinuses draining and eventually moved into the chest. I still have the nagging cough, but I was able to walk the boys from the parking lot today to the school building without getting out of breath. I call that serious progress. :-)
So, when I realized it's the last day of the month, so I have to take my measurements, I cringed at the idea of stepping on the scale that I was trying to avoid all month. And almost came to tears at the idea of putting a measuring tape anywhere near me. My Beachbody coach, Mary, has been awesomely telling me to remember this isn't a 90 day change, it's a lifestyle change. And she encourages me that despite two weeks of not being able to workout, I can still keep plugging away.
How easy would it be to quit right now? How easy would it be to step back into my old routines and forget that I have an ultimate goal that I am working towards that could take a year or more to reach? VERY. Which is why I decided to step on that scale and why I decided, through my tears, to measure anyway. I didn't lose any weight this month. I anticipated that as eating out became a better option the past few weeks when we weren't feeling well and none of us had the energy to lift a finger, let alone a pan. But I decided I had to measure anyhow. It's my commitment to Beachbody to measure and check in. So I took that measuring tape and put it in the places to measure. First my right arm, then my left. Around my chest, my waist and hips. Then the thighs. I wrote down each and every number not having a clue if they were an improvement or backslide. I had a hard time writing the numbers down because I was seriously crying. I'm an emotional soul anyhow, but the fact that I hadn't lost any weight really weighed heavily on me (excuse the pun).
I brought my numbers into the office space and sat down to my computer feeling as if I had the weight of the world on my shoulders. After bringing up my numbers in Beachbody, I just stared at the computer. And stared for quite sometime. Owen even asked me if I was okay. I couldn't believe my eyes.
It said I lost an inch around my waist and TWO on my hips!! Seriously, I went back into the bedroom and measured again. I just didn't believe it. I know what I ate; I know what bad habits I had started back up on. I knew I had taken the easy way out! So, the results for day 60 is that I have now lost a total of 2 1/2 inches from my waist, 3 1/2 inches from my hips. I've lost approximately 3% body fat and my arms have been reduced by 2 inches. I lost 3 inches from my chest. The shock of it all for me is the fact that despite not losing any weight, I still lost everywhere else (besides those stupid thighs which I think I might be measuring wrong).
So this morning on my way back from taking the boys to school, I had a heart to heart with the Lord. I promised him that I wasn't going to beat myself up about September. This isn't a 90 day commitment, as beautiful Mary Smith would say. This is my life and the life of my family. This is a lifestyle change, and there is no cheesecake out there good enough to make up for the incredible feeling I get after a great workout!
My lesson today, my friends, is that if you feel like taking the easy way instead of the right way, talk yourself out of it. The rewards on the other side are so much brighter and so much better. If you see me out and eating something I shouldn't, please ask me about it. It might be a special treat, but it might be me slipping. If you see me out, ask me about my workout for the day. October 1st starts a new day, so Kenpo will be calling my name despite the busy day ahead of us. And if all works out the way it is supposed to, I might be able to squeeze in a yoga just to get these muscles moving again today!
Keep your chin up friends as I can see a brighter and better view on the horizon and it is really beautiful!
Want to share my motivation with you... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-EuV5goIkb0&feature=related
But motivation hasn't come easy when I got my first cold of the season. What's a little cold you ask? It's a 2 weeks of can't do anything is what it is! This cold has been going around, and it most certainly takes away your get up and go! I don't know that I've had a simple cold hang on so terribly long. Started with the sinuses draining and eventually moved into the chest. I still have the nagging cough, but I was able to walk the boys from the parking lot today to the school building without getting out of breath. I call that serious progress. :-)
So, when I realized it's the last day of the month, so I have to take my measurements, I cringed at the idea of stepping on the scale that I was trying to avoid all month. And almost came to tears at the idea of putting a measuring tape anywhere near me. My Beachbody coach, Mary, has been awesomely telling me to remember this isn't a 90 day change, it's a lifestyle change. And she encourages me that despite two weeks of not being able to workout, I can still keep plugging away.
How easy would it be to quit right now? How easy would it be to step back into my old routines and forget that I have an ultimate goal that I am working towards that could take a year or more to reach? VERY. Which is why I decided to step on that scale and why I decided, through my tears, to measure anyway. I didn't lose any weight this month. I anticipated that as eating out became a better option the past few weeks when we weren't feeling well and none of us had the energy to lift a finger, let alone a pan. But I decided I had to measure anyhow. It's my commitment to Beachbody to measure and check in. So I took that measuring tape and put it in the places to measure. First my right arm, then my left. Around my chest, my waist and hips. Then the thighs. I wrote down each and every number not having a clue if they were an improvement or backslide. I had a hard time writing the numbers down because I was seriously crying. I'm an emotional soul anyhow, but the fact that I hadn't lost any weight really weighed heavily on me (excuse the pun).
I brought my numbers into the office space and sat down to my computer feeling as if I had the weight of the world on my shoulders. After bringing up my numbers in Beachbody, I just stared at the computer. And stared for quite sometime. Owen even asked me if I was okay. I couldn't believe my eyes.
It said I lost an inch around my waist and TWO on my hips!! Seriously, I went back into the bedroom and measured again. I just didn't believe it. I know what I ate; I know what bad habits I had started back up on. I knew I had taken the easy way out! So, the results for day 60 is that I have now lost a total of 2 1/2 inches from my waist, 3 1/2 inches from my hips. I've lost approximately 3% body fat and my arms have been reduced by 2 inches. I lost 3 inches from my chest. The shock of it all for me is the fact that despite not losing any weight, I still lost everywhere else (besides those stupid thighs which I think I might be measuring wrong).
So this morning on my way back from taking the boys to school, I had a heart to heart with the Lord. I promised him that I wasn't going to beat myself up about September. This isn't a 90 day commitment, as beautiful Mary Smith would say. This is my life and the life of my family. This is a lifestyle change, and there is no cheesecake out there good enough to make up for the incredible feeling I get after a great workout!
My lesson today, my friends, is that if you feel like taking the easy way instead of the right way, talk yourself out of it. The rewards on the other side are so much brighter and so much better. If you see me out and eating something I shouldn't, please ask me about it. It might be a special treat, but it might be me slipping. If you see me out, ask me about my workout for the day. October 1st starts a new day, so Kenpo will be calling my name despite the busy day ahead of us. And if all works out the way it is supposed to, I might be able to squeeze in a yoga just to get these muscles moving again today!
Keep your chin up friends as I can see a brighter and better view on the horizon and it is really beautiful!
Want to share my motivation with you... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-EuV5goIkb0&feature=related
September 20, 2011
Weepy
Today, I find myself weepy and incurably sad. I, like so many, oftentimes find myself stressing over things that are absolutely beyond any control that I might have. And while I know how to stop it, I fall short and do not. I know that God is in control and whatever He has planned to happen will, but in my egotistical mind, I believe I can take care of it and control it and prevent negative things from happening. WOW! I'm glad I don't really have that much control or it would really drive me insane!
This weekend is a huge mark in the independence of our sweet Owen. Our little peanut allergy kid that I have sheltered for so many years will be going off on his first camp out as a cub scout (now he has gone with Alec, but not as a scout- just a brother- and I was there). I'm not going. I don't think my heart could handle it. His Daddy, who is also his Den Leader, will be going with him. And we are already praying for God's control... they are serving snacks that include nuts. Cookies that have nuts and actual nuts as snacks on both Friday and Saturday night. I won't sleep a wink, I am sure. I will be awaiting that horrid call as I do every day when I drop him off at school. And while I know God is taking care of him, I just can't let go. I can't let that be it, and it's all because I'm the Mommy.
But the part that I think has me so darn weepy today is that I realized this morning that I've done my job. I've taught him how to live in a peanut world. I know that I have been working to that end since he was 12 months and diagnosed with a life-threatening food allergy. I know that I have been diligent in stressing to him how important it is to avoid those situations that could be dangerous to him without vocally calling himself or his classmates out. I know that I've taught others to be tolerant around him and him to be tolerant of those who just don't get it. And my job certainly doesn't stop here at the wise old age of almost 7 ;-) But today he showed me that my lessons are in there, and he understands the danger involved in other people's daily living. He told me this morning that he asked the teacher in charge in the lunchroom yesterday if he could go to the front of the lunch line for going out. She did ask for an explanation. His words to me... "Mommy, I just told her that I have been thinking and it isn't safe for me to be in line with other kids that might have had peanuts or peanut butter in their lunches. We don't clean our hands until after we are out of the gym. What if they touch me? It's dangerous, and I don't want to be in that situation." Yes, he used those big words and suddenly I realized that while I have a little first grader, I also have a big boy who has learned how to protect himself and how to think independently. And, that quite possibly, might be the death of me ;-) I've lived his entire life protecting him from those things he couldn't protect himself from. But as he grows up and matures, I see that Wade and I have instilled in him a lesson of survival. He is gonna be just fine this weekend. I know that! But I'm still the Mommy, so I will still worry and I will still fret after him cause that's my job!
Everyday we say, I can't believe they are growing up. Each and every one of them. Letting go is so very difficult, but for a food allergy Mom, letting go means so much more. I ask for prayers as I come to realize it's all in God's hands, and I'm doing my job. He is a big boy, Kim! He can handle it himself. Hard words for this Mom to accept.
This weekend is a huge mark in the independence of our sweet Owen. Our little peanut allergy kid that I have sheltered for so many years will be going off on his first camp out as a cub scout (now he has gone with Alec, but not as a scout- just a brother- and I was there). I'm not going. I don't think my heart could handle it. His Daddy, who is also his Den Leader, will be going with him. And we are already praying for God's control... they are serving snacks that include nuts. Cookies that have nuts and actual nuts as snacks on both Friday and Saturday night. I won't sleep a wink, I am sure. I will be awaiting that horrid call as I do every day when I drop him off at school. And while I know God is taking care of him, I just can't let go. I can't let that be it, and it's all because I'm the Mommy.
But the part that I think has me so darn weepy today is that I realized this morning that I've done my job. I've taught him how to live in a peanut world. I know that I have been working to that end since he was 12 months and diagnosed with a life-threatening food allergy. I know that I have been diligent in stressing to him how important it is to avoid those situations that could be dangerous to him without vocally calling himself or his classmates out. I know that I've taught others to be tolerant around him and him to be tolerant of those who just don't get it. And my job certainly doesn't stop here at the wise old age of almost 7 ;-) But today he showed me that my lessons are in there, and he understands the danger involved in other people's daily living. He told me this morning that he asked the teacher in charge in the lunchroom yesterday if he could go to the front of the lunch line for going out. She did ask for an explanation. His words to me... "Mommy, I just told her that I have been thinking and it isn't safe for me to be in line with other kids that might have had peanuts or peanut butter in their lunches. We don't clean our hands until after we are out of the gym. What if they touch me? It's dangerous, and I don't want to be in that situation." Yes, he used those big words and suddenly I realized that while I have a little first grader, I also have a big boy who has learned how to protect himself and how to think independently. And, that quite possibly, might be the death of me ;-) I've lived his entire life protecting him from those things he couldn't protect himself from. But as he grows up and matures, I see that Wade and I have instilled in him a lesson of survival. He is gonna be just fine this weekend. I know that! But I'm still the Mommy, so I will still worry and I will still fret after him cause that's my job!
Everyday we say, I can't believe they are growing up. Each and every one of them. Letting go is so very difficult, but for a food allergy Mom, letting go means so much more. I ask for prayers as I come to realize it's all in God's hands, and I'm doing my job. He is a big boy, Kim! He can handle it himself. Hard words for this Mom to accept.
September 14, 2011
Lessons in the PortAPotty
"I learned something new today," said "Jeff," the man at the football practice. "Ethan taught me that that thing in the Port A Potty is a urinal."
Laughter erupted from his girlfriend (and almost from the poor lady eavesdropping next to them).
"I know. At 33 and I just now learn that," he said. "Ethan started to pee in it, and I asked him what he was doing!" That is when this sweet little 6 year-old boy (and I mean that, he is a cute fella) looked at that great big man and taught him that there is a urinal in the port a potty.
"What did you think it was?" his girlfriend asked.
Through all the laughing, the poor lady didn't have a chance at hearing the answer. And when I say all the laughing, it was from that poor lady, ME. I just lost it and the three of us had an interesting conversation and laughter that followed. I joked about him ending up on my blog and really didn't plan to write anything about it, but I got to thinking. Many of you know how I am when I am thinking. hee hee.
How many of us go through our day and don't learn something? Do you really have a day where you are truly a know it all and didn't learn a lesson? As I sat here thinking this morning about writing, I wondered what it was that I learned yesterday..a valuable lesson indeed. My daughter is absolutely heartbroken over the fact that she is "too little" to do certain things, such as dance. Yes, that is my lesson. I learned that those real tears are showing her heartbreak. And when you say, duh, Kim, I say to you, how was I not to know that it wasn't just her throwing a normal 2 year old fit? Seriously, how many times have I not payed attention to the sadness she is showing because I've written it off as a normal temper tantrum. How did I miss that she is the "baby" of the family and gets treated as such more often than not? My big girl is growing up, and mighty fast, but how many times in a day is she hearing the phrase "you're too little to do this or that?" So my lesson is that while she is little, she is a big girl at heart and her needs to be addressed just the same. So excited to see what new I learn today!
The lesson from the Port A Potty that I am sending today is to pay attention to what we are being taught each day. You never know when you might actually learn something new, like the port a potty actually has a urinal.
Laughter erupted from his girlfriend (and almost from the poor lady eavesdropping next to them).
"I know. At 33 and I just now learn that," he said. "Ethan started to pee in it, and I asked him what he was doing!" That is when this sweet little 6 year-old boy (and I mean that, he is a cute fella) looked at that great big man and taught him that there is a urinal in the port a potty.
"What did you think it was?" his girlfriend asked.
Through all the laughing, the poor lady didn't have a chance at hearing the answer. And when I say all the laughing, it was from that poor lady, ME. I just lost it and the three of us had an interesting conversation and laughter that followed. I joked about him ending up on my blog and really didn't plan to write anything about it, but I got to thinking. Many of you know how I am when I am thinking. hee hee.
How many of us go through our day and don't learn something? Do you really have a day where you are truly a know it all and didn't learn a lesson? As I sat here thinking this morning about writing, I wondered what it was that I learned yesterday..a valuable lesson indeed. My daughter is absolutely heartbroken over the fact that she is "too little" to do certain things, such as dance. Yes, that is my lesson. I learned that those real tears are showing her heartbreak. And when you say, duh, Kim, I say to you, how was I not to know that it wasn't just her throwing a normal 2 year old fit? Seriously, how many times have I not payed attention to the sadness she is showing because I've written it off as a normal temper tantrum. How did I miss that she is the "baby" of the family and gets treated as such more often than not? My big girl is growing up, and mighty fast, but how many times in a day is she hearing the phrase "you're too little to do this or that?" So my lesson is that while she is little, she is a big girl at heart and her needs to be addressed just the same. So excited to see what new I learn today!
The lesson from the Port A Potty that I am sending today is to pay attention to what we are being taught each day. You never know when you might actually learn something new, like the port a potty actually has a urinal.
September 3, 2011
Alcohol
Someone is going to take this blog post wrong. Someone is going to be offended by my words. Someone is going to feel like I am attacking them by even writing this. Someone is going to like what I write. Someone is going to be encouraged by my words. Every person takes everything different. I cannot control how others interpret what I'm writing, nor can I control how others interpret my actions. I cannot control the fact that I will be judged by others. What I can control is how I react. This blog is about that.
Let's talk about drinking. Some of you will stop reading this right now. I am sorry if you choose to do that, because I do have some valid points that I believe will shed light on my family and our thoughts regarding the subject. The Bible says so many things about so many different subjects. Drinking alcoholic beverages is one of them. There is a debate about the question.
Is it wrong to drink wine? Beer? What does the Bible say? Let's take a look......
The scripture in Proverbs 20 says warns that wine and strong drink can be bad to a man (woman to). It can cause raging and brawling and doing things in a drunken stupor that are unwise and regrettable. So what should our position as Christians be since we know that drunkenness can cause sorrows and troubles? We know that alcoholism is responsible for many broken homes for various reasons. Many deaths on our highways are caused by drinking and driving. Alcoholism has become a very costly drug addiction problem. So I say the answer is yes and no. Drunkenness is a very evil sin that hurts everyone, including our entire nation. The Bible does say that all drunkards who do not repent will not inherit the kingdom of God.
I believe the answer to this question is that the wine (or beer) itself is not sinful, because sin is in the heart of man and does not exist in any object of itself. It is the drunkenness and intoxication that comes about when a man drinks too much that causes him sin. The Bible teaches discipline and moderation; even eating too much food is a sin and is called the sin of gluttony in the Bible.
So, let's get to the point of my post. I absolutely adore my husband, and I absolutely adore all of my friends. That's why you are my friends. The one thing that frustrates me is those who have chosen to judge when it is not their place. (that is another blog post in itself). I write this post tonight because unkind words were said that were pointed straight at my family and our beliefs. It does not bother me that those words were said. We all have a right to our opinion. My husband and I took the opportunity to speak to our children about sin and what the Bible teaches us about moderation. Is it okay to drink alcoholic beverages? Jesus did, and I believe it is okay. It's in the scripture. Did he get drunk and stupid? Not that I have seen. Moderation. Drinking is not a sin. It is an action that in excess can cause sin because it is already in the heart of the one drinking.
Am I in any way encouraging someone to drink?? NO! My actions, the actions of my family and my words are not in any way an encouragement to my brothers in Christ to do something they know is wrong for them. What I am saying is that the action itself of drinking is not the sin. If I choose to have a glass of wine with my dinner or after dinner, that is my choice... one that Christ gave me the liberty to decide. Please do not judge me. It is not your place.
Let's talk about drinking. Some of you will stop reading this right now. I am sorry if you choose to do that, because I do have some valid points that I believe will shed light on my family and our thoughts regarding the subject. The Bible says so many things about so many different subjects. Drinking alcoholic beverages is one of them. There is a debate about the question.
Is it wrong to drink wine? Beer? What does the Bible say? Let's take a look......
The scripture in Proverbs 20 says warns that wine and strong drink can be bad to a man (woman to). It can cause raging and brawling and doing things in a drunken stupor that are unwise and regrettable. So what should our position as Christians be since we know that drunkenness can cause sorrows and troubles? We know that alcoholism is responsible for many broken homes for various reasons. Many deaths on our highways are caused by drinking and driving. Alcoholism has become a very costly drug addiction problem. So I say the answer is yes and no. Drunkenness is a very evil sin that hurts everyone, including our entire nation. The Bible does say that all drunkards who do not repent will not inherit the kingdom of God.
I believe the answer to this question is that the wine (or beer) itself is not sinful, because sin is in the heart of man and does not exist in any object of itself. It is the drunkenness and intoxication that comes about when a man drinks too much that causes him sin. The Bible teaches discipline and moderation; even eating too much food is a sin and is called the sin of gluttony in the Bible.
So, let's get to the point of my post. I absolutely adore my husband, and I absolutely adore all of my friends. That's why you are my friends. The one thing that frustrates me is those who have chosen to judge when it is not their place. (that is another blog post in itself). I write this post tonight because unkind words were said that were pointed straight at my family and our beliefs. It does not bother me that those words were said. We all have a right to our opinion. My husband and I took the opportunity to speak to our children about sin and what the Bible teaches us about moderation. Is it okay to drink alcoholic beverages? Jesus did, and I believe it is okay. It's in the scripture. Did he get drunk and stupid? Not that I have seen. Moderation. Drinking is not a sin. It is an action that in excess can cause sin because it is already in the heart of the one drinking.
Am I in any way encouraging someone to drink?? NO! My actions, the actions of my family and my words are not in any way an encouragement to my brothers in Christ to do something they know is wrong for them. What I am saying is that the action itself of drinking is not the sin. If I choose to have a glass of wine with my dinner or after dinner, that is my choice... one that Christ gave me the liberty to decide. Please do not judge me. It is not your place.
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for the liberty we have in Christ. Help us not to judge one another in regard to the issue of drinking a little wine, but rather to be honest before You as to the issue in our own hearts in this regard. May we be a good witness before those in the world. When we make our choices in this life, may they be pleasing to You and show love to those around us. You told us the highest law is the law of love. We are first to love You, and then, to love one another. May we do this in word and deed. Keep us from temptation and sin and let our actions prove to the world that we are true Christians. Deliver those who are addicted to alcohol and who are in this snare of the devil. I ask this in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
August 31, 2011
30 days
I have made it 30 days into the p90x program injury free. ;-) For those of you that know me, you know that is a giant feat in itself. I've done more push ups than I ever did in my entire life. I've increased my protein and decreased my sweets. Could I have eaten better throughout the 30 days? Yup. Could I have worked out harder throughout the 30 days? Yup. Could I have just done a better job overall? I am absolutely sure. But the could be's aren't what I'm focused on today. Today, I focus on the awesomeness of achievement. The achievement of goals and achievement that will move me on for the next 30 days and beyond.
Today, I sit here typing, 10.2 pounds lighter. I sit here typing after taking 1 1/2 inches off both my waist and hips. I sit here typing after cutting out 1 inch from one and another inch and a half of arm fat from those arms (we all know what I think about that). My goals are achieved and they will be surpassed. I share this with you to ask for further encouragement. I will keep you accountable, and ask that you do the same. Let's move forward on this journey thinking of it as an adventure. I look forward to the next 30 days! I hope you do too.
Today, I sit here typing, 10.2 pounds lighter. I sit here typing after taking 1 1/2 inches off both my waist and hips. I sit here typing after cutting out 1 inch from one and another inch and a half of arm fat from those arms (we all know what I think about that). My goals are achieved and they will be surpassed. I share this with you to ask for further encouragement. I will keep you accountable, and ask that you do the same. Let's move forward on this journey thinking of it as an adventure. I look forward to the next 30 days! I hope you do too.
August 26, 2011
B-Day
Okay, so you all saw my I WILL list from the other day. If not, feel free to click on it to go take a look.
Well, I'm excited to say that Number 13 is improving. I've been doing laundry quite a bit and hope it's taking a bit off of my husband's duties. But that's not what this post is all about. :( I have to say that I've been quite nauseous lately, and I know it's not about getting sick or anything like that. It's about the dreaded Number 15. Conquer my fear of heights. My sweet friend Gill immediately called me out on it knowing it would be one of the biggest challenges for me from my list. She challenged me to go up in a hot air balloon (tethered because if you think I'm going to step into a basket and go up up up and away, you are out of your minds!). What would going 20 feet into the air do for my fear? Well, it will either set me over the edge or it will be beautiful. Since I've had more intestinal issues this week than ever in the past, I'm thinking it might set me over the edge. I've allowed myself to get completely and utterly worked up from crying spells to migraines to just about anything you can think of. I keep looking at my list and thinking maybe I should focus on this one instead. I have been trying to figure out how to get out of it. I could easily use different things about this coming up and this coming up as an excuse, but I told myself I would not fail. I have been trying "baby steps" since she proposed this "flight." I even put a ladder up at my Dad's house and climbed up 3 steps to get something off the building for him. I didn't cry. I shook like heck, but I didn't cry.
Today is B-day!! Grove City is holding their annual Balloons and Tunes event this weekend, and tonight fits into our schedule better. So my friend Gill and I are going into a tethered hot air balloon. I'm typing this and feeling my stomach start to churn at just the thought. I asked for prayers from my friends at Bible study to find that I'm not alone, but that it would appear I am being irrational. WHAT? ME? NEVER. ;-) So, I thought, if I'm being so irrational, I'm sure there is something in the Bible. That is where I turned Wednesday and yesterday and yet again today... to find something in the Bible to encourage me, to scold me, to lift me up (excuse the pun- or not that's up to you). This is a little of what I came up with...
Deuteronomy 31:6
Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the LORD your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.
Isaiah 41:13
For I am the LORD, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.
Isaiah 41:10
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
So last night I had a dream. I believe God came to me in the night to bring me these last two verses that I found this morning. I dreamed of my balloon ride. I saw God hold my hand to help me into the basket and then as I went into the air, I saw a giant hand underneath the basket. There were others with me, but no faces at all (which I found odd). I think that was to have me focus on what message I was actually getting. I had immersed myself into the one thing I knew would bring me comfort, the Word and found that to bring me comfort. I'm am feeling quite positive right now about what lies ahead, but I'm still nervous. Tonight, I'm going to experience the opportunity to see God's Glory, to see more of what God has given us through his beauty. I will continue to pray, but I am getting a little excited and know that God will be with me every step of my way.
PS If you hear news of a balloon crashing in Grove City, please pray for me. ;-) hee hee.
Well, I'm excited to say that Number 13 is improving. I've been doing laundry quite a bit and hope it's taking a bit off of my husband's duties. But that's not what this post is all about. :( I have to say that I've been quite nauseous lately, and I know it's not about getting sick or anything like that. It's about the dreaded Number 15. Conquer my fear of heights. My sweet friend Gill immediately called me out on it knowing it would be one of the biggest challenges for me from my list. She challenged me to go up in a hot air balloon (tethered because if you think I'm going to step into a basket and go up up up and away, you are out of your minds!). What would going 20 feet into the air do for my fear? Well, it will either set me over the edge or it will be beautiful. Since I've had more intestinal issues this week than ever in the past, I'm thinking it might set me over the edge. I've allowed myself to get completely and utterly worked up from crying spells to migraines to just about anything you can think of. I keep looking at my list and thinking maybe I should focus on this one instead. I have been trying to figure out how to get out of it. I could easily use different things about this coming up and this coming up as an excuse, but I told myself I would not fail. I have been trying "baby steps" since she proposed this "flight." I even put a ladder up at my Dad's house and climbed up 3 steps to get something off the building for him. I didn't cry. I shook like heck, but I didn't cry.
Today is B-day!! Grove City is holding their annual Balloons and Tunes event this weekend, and tonight fits into our schedule better. So my friend Gill and I are going into a tethered hot air balloon. I'm typing this and feeling my stomach start to churn at just the thought. I asked for prayers from my friends at Bible study to find that I'm not alone, but that it would appear I am being irrational. WHAT? ME? NEVER. ;-) So, I thought, if I'm being so irrational, I'm sure there is something in the Bible. That is where I turned Wednesday and yesterday and yet again today... to find something in the Bible to encourage me, to scold me, to lift me up (excuse the pun- or not that's up to you). This is a little of what I came up with...
Deuteronomy 31:6
Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the LORD your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.
Isaiah 41:13
For I am the LORD, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.
Isaiah 41:10
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
So last night I had a dream. I believe God came to me in the night to bring me these last two verses that I found this morning. I dreamed of my balloon ride. I saw God hold my hand to help me into the basket and then as I went into the air, I saw a giant hand underneath the basket. There were others with me, but no faces at all (which I found odd). I think that was to have me focus on what message I was actually getting. I had immersed myself into the one thing I knew would bring me comfort, the Word and found that to bring me comfort. I'm am feeling quite positive right now about what lies ahead, but I'm still nervous. Tonight, I'm going to experience the opportunity to see God's Glory, to see more of what God has given us through his beauty. I will continue to pray, but I am getting a little excited and know that God will be with me every step of my way.
PS If you hear news of a balloon crashing in Grove City, please pray for me. ;-) hee hee.
August 24, 2011
Too Fast
They grow up so fast.. too fast. How many times in our lives did we hear that phrase referring to us and yet we didn't think much of it. Now that I have children, it is all too familiar how fast they are truly growing up. It feels like my oldest was just a baby, but now he is starting 4th grade. And my little talker is going to be in first grade. And the baby, well she's no longer a baby, nor a toddler. She's a preschooler. A real preschooler. We are out of the crib and done with the passy. We are almost through with diapers and sippy cups and oh my!!
It can all be so overwhelming to know that our time with our children is fading fast. It makes me think about what they will take from their childhood. Will they remember how much they are loved? Will they remember the important lessons in life we are trying to pass on? Will they remember the day they got yelled at when they made a mess in their bedroom? Or the death of their most cherished and precious pet? Or how fun it was to walk across the street to visit Grammy and Pappy? Or the fun family dates? So many memories we try to cram into every day for our children that we hope they remember and love.....
From my childhood, I don't have a lot of specific memories from the ages that my children currently are. I remember trips to my Great Grandparent's home for Sunday dinners before they passed. The whole family would be there. I remember the Christmas that Uncle John read the name wrong on the tag and I got my cousin Kevin's gift instead of mine - a pair of shoes that were totally boys. ;-) I remember going to church with Grandma Hawkins and Aunt Esta when I stayed up there. I remember making ice cream the truly old fashioned way with Grandpa and having to crank it if I wanted it. I remember going "hunting" with Daddy (I wasn't allowed to really hunt that young, but he was always willing to take me into the woods and never lost me). I remember playing ball with the boys and then the girls. I remember going to church with Grandma Perkins and sitting in the third row from the back on the inside part of the aisle. I remember staying up late talking with Sandy and getting hollered at to be quiet up there ;-) I remember the death of my great grandmother, then great grandfather, then precious cousin. I remember the Funkhousers coming over to play cards with Mom and Dad and the kids all playing in the other room. I remember spending New Year's Eve every year with my Aunt Sonia and Uncle Dave and Kimmie and Michael and wishing I could be just like Kimmie when I was a big girl ;-)
Do I remember every trip? Every moment, no. But I do have cherished memories. I do remember more than I might have thought I would, and I do remember being in trouble from time to time. But I don't remember specific times. So when my children are being rowdy and getting in trouble, I am okay about that because I know they won't necessarily remember the details, just the lesson learned.
So today, I hug my precious preschooler a little tighter because she doesn't start school for a few more weeks. And I hold my great big 1st grader and talk about his "homework" he has assigned before the start of the year. And when my great great big 4th grader comes home, I can't wait to hear about his first day of Safety Patrol and school, his class and recess and lunch and gym and everything he thinks is important. Because despite the fact that the details will go away one day, today they make all the difference. Today, they make memories that come with feelings; it's those feelings that will last a lifetime. I want my children to remember that Mom took time. Despite the hectic schedules starting. Despite the pounding headaches (fighting one right now). Despite the fact that there is a stack of work piling up. My children are number one and that will last a lifetime!
It can all be so overwhelming to know that our time with our children is fading fast. It makes me think about what they will take from their childhood. Will they remember how much they are loved? Will they remember the important lessons in life we are trying to pass on? Will they remember the day they got yelled at when they made a mess in their bedroom? Or the death of their most cherished and precious pet? Or how fun it was to walk across the street to visit Grammy and Pappy? Or the fun family dates? So many memories we try to cram into every day for our children that we hope they remember and love.....
From my childhood, I don't have a lot of specific memories from the ages that my children currently are. I remember trips to my Great Grandparent's home for Sunday dinners before they passed. The whole family would be there. I remember the Christmas that Uncle John read the name wrong on the tag and I got my cousin Kevin's gift instead of mine - a pair of shoes that were totally boys. ;-) I remember going to church with Grandma Hawkins and Aunt Esta when I stayed up there. I remember making ice cream the truly old fashioned way with Grandpa and having to crank it if I wanted it. I remember going "hunting" with Daddy (I wasn't allowed to really hunt that young, but he was always willing to take me into the woods and never lost me). I remember playing ball with the boys and then the girls. I remember going to church with Grandma Perkins and sitting in the third row from the back on the inside part of the aisle. I remember staying up late talking with Sandy and getting hollered at to be quiet up there ;-) I remember the death of my great grandmother, then great grandfather, then precious cousin. I remember the Funkhousers coming over to play cards with Mom and Dad and the kids all playing in the other room. I remember spending New Year's Eve every year with my Aunt Sonia and Uncle Dave and Kimmie and Michael and wishing I could be just like Kimmie when I was a big girl ;-)
Do I remember every trip? Every moment, no. But I do have cherished memories. I do remember more than I might have thought I would, and I do remember being in trouble from time to time. But I don't remember specific times. So when my children are being rowdy and getting in trouble, I am okay about that because I know they won't necessarily remember the details, just the lesson learned.
So today, I hug my precious preschooler a little tighter because she doesn't start school for a few more weeks. And I hold my great big 1st grader and talk about his "homework" he has assigned before the start of the year. And when my great great big 4th grader comes home, I can't wait to hear about his first day of Safety Patrol and school, his class and recess and lunch and gym and everything he thinks is important. Because despite the fact that the details will go away one day, today they make all the difference. Today, they make memories that come with feelings; it's those feelings that will last a lifetime. I want my children to remember that Mom took time. Despite the hectic schedules starting. Despite the pounding headaches (fighting one right now). Despite the fact that there is a stack of work piling up. My children are number one and that will last a lifetime!
August 19, 2011
Arm Fat
Yup. I'm going there. I'm going to the friendliest, meanest, ugliest fat on a person's body... the arm fat. For those of you who have been blessed to never have had it, congratulations and bite me. ;-) I still love you, but I think everyone should have to deal with arm fat at least once in their life to just KNOW what it's like. Just like the pregnant suits some men decide are cool to wear to help them know what it's like to be pregnant for their wives, they should make arm fat suits.
The plight of a woman with arm fat is one that is very disturbing. Sleeveless shirts are not flattering no matter what your girlfriends are saying! Sundresses? Seriously! You know better, Ladies. This friendly fat tends to do things that are appalling and mean just to spite you. This is the fat that decides they would like to be friendly and wave before you even have the chance to get your arm all the way up. And if you listened to that mean friend that told you that sleeveless shirt or sundress looked good on you, it's CLEARLY waving before you!!!
This is the fat that makes buying shirts to go over that part of your arm difficult. There are times it really needs a zip code of its own! If you are being brave or just not caring one day (I'm on one of those days with a tank top on- doesn't look good, but I DON"T CARE. It's comfortable), you know someone is going to stare at your arm fat at least once that day. I'm prepared for it. I was thinking this morning as I got dressed about where all I am going and how many people do I think will stare at the fat that is on my arm just before the armpit. Please don't make me post a picture, people, you know what I'm talking about. It's like an accident. You don't want to look, but you are drawn to it. It's like the uni-brow. You REALLY don't want to look, but you HAVE to!!!!!
People, I know I'm using a lot of exclamation points here, but this is serious business!!!! Arm fat is the devil himself trying to ruin this society! And if you ask a trainer, you can't spot reduce, so you are stuck with this fat no matter how darn hard you work out. There is no way you are going to get rid of it. OR IS THERE?
I am here to say, I'm doing it. This is probably why I talked myself into the tank top today. I noticed last night that my arm fat has reduced. I didn't measure my arms or anything like that. I just noticed when I flung my arm up, it didn't jiggle as much. The jello attached to my arm does not look as prominent. What? Is it really possible? I believe so. I cannot explain the science about it (might want to ask my friend Zach about that), but I can explain the happy lady emotion that comes out when I see it is getting smaller.
I don't like the arm fat. Never have; never will. I feel bad for other ladies (and men, cause there are men out there with this as well) who are overweight, but I truly feel for those of you, who like me, have suffered from the devil's attack on our arms. I say we unite. Stick our fat arms in the air and charge ahead jiggling all the way!!!!
Keep moving friends. It's starting to show ;-)
The plight of a woman with arm fat is one that is very disturbing. Sleeveless shirts are not flattering no matter what your girlfriends are saying! Sundresses? Seriously! You know better, Ladies. This friendly fat tends to do things that are appalling and mean just to spite you. This is the fat that decides they would like to be friendly and wave before you even have the chance to get your arm all the way up. And if you listened to that mean friend that told you that sleeveless shirt or sundress looked good on you, it's CLEARLY waving before you!!!
This is the fat that makes buying shirts to go over that part of your arm difficult. There are times it really needs a zip code of its own! If you are being brave or just not caring one day (I'm on one of those days with a tank top on- doesn't look good, but I DON"T CARE. It's comfortable), you know someone is going to stare at your arm fat at least once that day. I'm prepared for it. I was thinking this morning as I got dressed about where all I am going and how many people do I think will stare at the fat that is on my arm just before the armpit. Please don't make me post a picture, people, you know what I'm talking about. It's like an accident. You don't want to look, but you are drawn to it. It's like the uni-brow. You REALLY don't want to look, but you HAVE to!!!!!
People, I know I'm using a lot of exclamation points here, but this is serious business!!!! Arm fat is the devil himself trying to ruin this society! And if you ask a trainer, you can't spot reduce, so you are stuck with this fat no matter how darn hard you work out. There is no way you are going to get rid of it. OR IS THERE?
I am here to say, I'm doing it. This is probably why I talked myself into the tank top today. I noticed last night that my arm fat has reduced. I didn't measure my arms or anything like that. I just noticed when I flung my arm up, it didn't jiggle as much. The jello attached to my arm does not look as prominent. What? Is it really possible? I believe so. I cannot explain the science about it (might want to ask my friend Zach about that), but I can explain the happy lady emotion that comes out when I see it is getting smaller.
I don't like the arm fat. Never have; never will. I feel bad for other ladies (and men, cause there are men out there with this as well) who are overweight, but I truly feel for those of you, who like me, have suffered from the devil's attack on our arms. I say we unite. Stick our fat arms in the air and charge ahead jiggling all the way!!!!
Keep moving friends. It's starting to show ;-)
August 13, 2011
I WILL
So over the past few weeks, you have probably be following my journey into better health. Where there once was an uncertain person, now, proudly stands a confident, determined woman. Two weeks ago, I started writing a list. I called it my want list for the next year, but realized that want was not strong enough to keep me moving. So I changed it to my I will list. The empowering feeling that came with this list is incredible and one that I would encourage each of you to do.
What better way to move forward than to share with those who love me and do not judge here, publicly. What a way to keep me accountable (you might notice I like that word). So, today I post the "I WILL List of 2011-2012." There will be updates as I am able to mark off this list.
I WILL.....
1. Make it routine to wake up early to start my day in a positive way.
2. Workout everyday.
3. Strive to eat healthier each day.
4. Be a better example to my children in all aspects of my life.
5. Be a great Christian wife.
6. Be a better Christian.
7. Read one new book a month.
8. Cook dinner more days a week than we eat out.
9. Be my husband and children's biggest (not physically) cheerleader.
10. Stay on budget.
11. Race my children to the swing set without gasping for breath.
12. Participate in a half marathon.
13. Help my husband with the laundry more frequently than I currently do.
14. Organize my life.
15. Conquer my fear of heights.
16. Write something creative EVERY day.
17. Turn off the tv more often.
18. Make myself a priority.
19. Control my temper despite the situation.
20. Slow dance with my husband - stipulation that he has to comfortably put his hands around my waist again.
What better way to move forward than to share with those who love me and do not judge here, publicly. What a way to keep me accountable (you might notice I like that word). So, today I post the "I WILL List of 2011-2012." There will be updates as I am able to mark off this list.
I WILL.....
1. Make it routine to wake up early to start my day in a positive way.
2. Workout everyday.
3. Strive to eat healthier each day.
4. Be a better example to my children in all aspects of my life.
5. Be a great Christian wife.
6. Be a better Christian.
7. Read one new book a month.
8. Cook dinner more days a week than we eat out.
9. Be my husband and children's biggest (not physically) cheerleader.
10. Stay on budget.
11. Race my children to the swing set without gasping for breath.
12. Participate in a half marathon.
13. Help my husband with the laundry more frequently than I currently do.
14. Organize my life.
15. Conquer my fear of heights.
16. Write something creative EVERY day.
17. Turn off the tv more often.
18. Make myself a priority.
19. Control my temper despite the situation.
20. Slow dance with my husband - stipulation that he has to comfortably put his hands around my waist again.
August 10, 2011
The woman in the mirror
3 months ago, I looked in the mirror and was shocked. It wasn't that I hadn't looked in the mirror before, but I had never really seen who was looking back at me. The reality of the moment hit me this morning as I REALLY looked in the mirror. You see, these past few months have been quite a learning experience for me for my ability to not only change my circumstances but my entire life for that matter. And I have to say, I've started on a pretty tough but awesome road!
Now don't get me wrong. I'm so not vain, but sometimes you have to just notice. I hadn't noticed. Seriously. I saw a friend of mine out at the store yesterday, and she commented on how great I looked. I just did my awkward giggle and thanked her but didn't feel it. Sorry to say that Ms. Heidi, but I didn't. I thought, Man, she needs her glasses checked. hee hee. But this morning I decided I wanted to see myself through her eyes, cause that's enough motivation to keep getting up at 5 am and plugging away. But rather than pretending she's actually saying something true or just being nice, I thought I would really look. And guess what I found? She's right. There is a change!
Three months ago, I looked in the mirror and thought, eww. What have I done? but today, that is not the case. I looked in the mirror today and saw a sweaty fat chick and thought, you go girl! Then I really looked. I mean really looked. I suddenly realized I saw leaner shoulders and neck. I saw that my belly was just slightly smaller. And then looked and saw, I got some rockin calves starting there. ;-) I noticed a shine in my eyes that I haven't seen in awhile. Then I noticed something huge!! I noticed..... Wait for it. I noticed a smile! I real genuine smile.
The change is not drastic, but that's fine. It will be. When it's all said and done, this isn't about losing weight at a rapid pace. This isn't about getting smaller, only to gain it back. This is my life, and this is a permanent change. So this morning, the woman in the mirror smiled back. I can't wait to see what she looks like next week ;-)
Now don't get me wrong. I'm so not vain, but sometimes you have to just notice. I hadn't noticed. Seriously. I saw a friend of mine out at the store yesterday, and she commented on how great I looked. I just did my awkward giggle and thanked her but didn't feel it. Sorry to say that Ms. Heidi, but I didn't. I thought, Man, she needs her glasses checked. hee hee. But this morning I decided I wanted to see myself through her eyes, cause that's enough motivation to keep getting up at 5 am and plugging away. But rather than pretending she's actually saying something true or just being nice, I thought I would really look. And guess what I found? She's right. There is a change!
Three months ago, I looked in the mirror and thought, eww. What have I done? but today, that is not the case. I looked in the mirror today and saw a sweaty fat chick and thought, you go girl! Then I really looked. I mean really looked. I suddenly realized I saw leaner shoulders and neck. I saw that my belly was just slightly smaller. And then looked and saw, I got some rockin calves starting there. ;-) I noticed a shine in my eyes that I haven't seen in awhile. Then I noticed something huge!! I noticed..... Wait for it. I noticed a smile! I real genuine smile.
The change is not drastic, but that's fine. It will be. When it's all said and done, this isn't about losing weight at a rapid pace. This isn't about getting smaller, only to gain it back. This is my life, and this is a permanent change. So this morning, the woman in the mirror smiled back. I can't wait to see what she looks like next week ;-)
August 7, 2011
Beat me Down
Dear Devil,
I am so truly sorry that you thought you were going to win. You messed up my computer. You attacked the coolants in our house (fridge and air). I feel you trying to work on me and my body. I feel you trying to come back into my eating habits and causing me pain in my ankle that I haven't felt in months.
You may bring me to tears!! You may make my blood boil. But do you not realize that I have more power on my side than you could ever bring?! Do you not realize that THE Holy Spirit lives INSIDE me!! THE Holy Spirit!! Seriously, I'm talking to you. You will NOT hold me down. You will NOT discourage me. You will NOT defeat me!!!
Because I am the child of the Living Savior. I am protected and you have no rights here.
So I leave you with this Satan, I trust my Lord. I know He's holding me up right now. I know He has defeated you and will continue to defeat you time after time after time after time. This is one battle you better give up cause this lady, I'm a Princess of the Lord, Jesus Christ and I'm no quitter!!!
I am so truly sorry that you thought you were going to win. You messed up my computer. You attacked the coolants in our house (fridge and air). I feel you trying to work on me and my body. I feel you trying to come back into my eating habits and causing me pain in my ankle that I haven't felt in months.
You may bring me to tears!! You may make my blood boil. But do you not realize that I have more power on my side than you could ever bring?! Do you not realize that THE Holy Spirit lives INSIDE me!! THE Holy Spirit!! Seriously, I'm talking to you. You will NOT hold me down. You will NOT discourage me. You will NOT defeat me!!!
Because I am the child of the Living Savior. I am protected and you have no rights here.
So I leave you with this Satan, I trust my Lord. I know He's holding me up right now. I know He has defeated you and will continue to defeat you time after time after time after time. This is one battle you better give up cause this lady, I'm a Princess of the Lord, Jesus Christ and I'm no quitter!!!
August 4, 2011
Positivity
To coin a phrase, this is one a friend of mine used so much we couldn't help but pick up on it. I choose to be positive this morning. I want to share a moment of fitness with you.
First of all, for those friends of mine who are happy as couch potatoes, I love you, but you need to get up and move with me. Trust me when I say you will feel so much better!! Secondly, if you are tired of hearing me say that, then what have you got to lose other than me saying it all the time? ;-)
So last night was a lifting night in the Lunsford house. I opted to wait on my workout and do it with Wade. Shoulders & Arms, Ab Ripper X. Not like I can move my arms as it is much after MONDAY'S workout. hee hee. So it was hard which makes it awesome. Get done with the lifting part, and it's time for the Abs. In the past, I have observed these much more than participated but was determined to make Tony Horton proud. Started off strong doing 20 out of 25 of the first one. Then came the bicycles. Did great until they were reversed. That action messes with my head. Kept going pretty darn strong and could have stopped there a happy lady. Did I do the over 300 abdominal exercises on the DVD. Heck no! If I could do that, I wouldn't have so much weight to lose! hee hee.
but the next few moments are the special ones. Sofia and Alec came in. Alec was like, you can do it Mom. Sofia stood over me repeating, "Just one more, Momma. One more." with her little finger in the air. And guess what! That one more went from one to two and three. I did do more, and it was that princess monkeypants of mine standing over me like a sweet drill sergeant (oxymoron, I know). Then, when it was all over, Alec looked at me and said, "Great job, Mom. I'm proud of you."
Heck with Tony Horton! Sorry, I adore you, but my Sunshine said he was proud of me. That, is priceless!!!
First of all, for those friends of mine who are happy as couch potatoes, I love you, but you need to get up and move with me. Trust me when I say you will feel so much better!! Secondly, if you are tired of hearing me say that, then what have you got to lose other than me saying it all the time? ;-)
So last night was a lifting night in the Lunsford house. I opted to wait on my workout and do it with Wade. Shoulders & Arms, Ab Ripper X. Not like I can move my arms as it is much after MONDAY'S workout. hee hee. So it was hard which makes it awesome. Get done with the lifting part, and it's time for the Abs. In the past, I have observed these much more than participated but was determined to make Tony Horton proud. Started off strong doing 20 out of 25 of the first one. Then came the bicycles. Did great until they were reversed. That action messes with my head. Kept going pretty darn strong and could have stopped there a happy lady. Did I do the over 300 abdominal exercises on the DVD. Heck no! If I could do that, I wouldn't have so much weight to lose! hee hee.
but the next few moments are the special ones. Sofia and Alec came in. Alec was like, you can do it Mom. Sofia stood over me repeating, "Just one more, Momma. One more." with her little finger in the air. And guess what! That one more went from one to two and three. I did do more, and it was that princess monkeypants of mine standing over me like a sweet drill sergeant (oxymoron, I know). Then, when it was all over, Alec looked at me and said, "Great job, Mom. I'm proud of you."
Heck with Tony Horton! Sorry, I adore you, but my Sunshine said he was proud of me. That, is priceless!!!
August 1, 2011
89
That is a magic number for me right now. What, pray tell, am I talking about? Push ups. No joke, Ladies and Gents. I did 89 push ups this morning!!!!!!! That's not counting my additional pull ups (I use bands) or abdominal work. I'm mush right now to be honest, but I feel so good.
Those of you who know me from grade school or high school know I don't do push ups. I was the one in high school that would watch for Ms. Spangler to turn her back so I could stop. Seriously, that was me. And I really wasn't all that fat back then. Well, not compared to now. I did modify what I did, but they were real floor push ups (just with my knees down) and as I write this run-on sentence, I am so darn proud. I cried on the last set. Because it hurt? Well, that could be answered yes, but that's not it. I cried because this fat chick did it!!!!
Six months ago I couldn't have imagined this. Six months ago, I was content to just keep the way I was going. What changed? It's always hard to say. For the first time, I'm not making excuses. And I'm not GOING to make excuses. 89 Ladies and Gentlemen! Let's see how much I can improve over the next 30 days, 60 days, 90 days. FOREVER!!!!
Those of you who know me from grade school or high school know I don't do push ups. I was the one in high school that would watch for Ms. Spangler to turn her back so I could stop. Seriously, that was me. And I really wasn't all that fat back then. Well, not compared to now. I did modify what I did, but they were real floor push ups (just with my knees down) and as I write this run-on sentence, I am so darn proud. I cried on the last set. Because it hurt? Well, that could be answered yes, but that's not it. I cried because this fat chick did it!!!!
Six months ago I couldn't have imagined this. Six months ago, I was content to just keep the way I was going. What changed? It's always hard to say. For the first time, I'm not making excuses. And I'm not GOING to make excuses. 89 Ladies and Gentlemen! Let's see how much I can improve over the next 30 days, 60 days, 90 days. FOREVER!!!!
July 27, 2011
Not supposed to Laugh
"You're not going to be the best man at my wedding!"
Seriously? That is what a 9 year old yells to his 6 year old brother when he's mad! I know I'm not supposed to laugh at that, but typing this is the only thing that is keeping me from one of those LOL gut-wrenching laughs. They are cleaning up the corner of my office where they keep toys in order to go out front to play on their wheels. They don't clean well together. We've tried it before and always have to separate them. They just have different opinions of what clean means. But this moment cracked me up. An area that should take them 5 minutes to clean up has now taken 20 and ended in tears from both and that outburst from my oldest.
It has me wondering what kind of hateful things my sister and I once said to each other. I seriously don't remember. I'm sure my Mom can tell me, but I prefer to remember things as just random fights without any details. I hope my boys don't remember this either. But I will. And when Alec asks Owen to be his best man (or at least I hope he does) I will remember this and smile.
Seriously? That is what a 9 year old yells to his 6 year old brother when he's mad! I know I'm not supposed to laugh at that, but typing this is the only thing that is keeping me from one of those LOL gut-wrenching laughs. They are cleaning up the corner of my office where they keep toys in order to go out front to play on their wheels. They don't clean well together. We've tried it before and always have to separate them. They just have different opinions of what clean means. But this moment cracked me up. An area that should take them 5 minutes to clean up has now taken 20 and ended in tears from both and that outburst from my oldest.
It has me wondering what kind of hateful things my sister and I once said to each other. I seriously don't remember. I'm sure my Mom can tell me, but I prefer to remember things as just random fights without any details. I hope my boys don't remember this either. But I will. And when Alec asks Owen to be his best man (or at least I hope he does) I will remember this and smile.
July 26, 2011
Delayed, but not Failed
I refuse to use the word failed at this point because, in truth, I haven't failed anything. You, my friends are about to go on a journey with me though.
As many of you know, I had a complex sprain to my wrist at the beginning of a life changing workout program. I saw such promise and hope for the good things to come. I got a taste of the Glory of God in reward for my hard work. Then my setback. In the 4 short weeks of doing p90x, I lost 18 pounds and gained more confidence than I've had in years. I was no longer suffering from insomnia, I no longer felt ankle pain and I had more energy than I've had in years. I suddenly had a desire to do things with my children and the drive to actually get out and do it.
Did I have a setback with my injury? Sort of. But I let myself get worked up and off track. I did gain a few of the pounds back, but am only currently standing at five pounds up from that. So, I can proudly say that in my 4 weeks and subsequent about 7 weeks I have lost 13 pounds and have a renewed strength to keep going.
So, my new journey that you will be going with me starts officially August 1st with a new weigh in and measurements as well as pictures (debating when those will be posted ;-). I will be blogging my journey and my commitment to life change that I welcome you to join me in. Is this particular workout for everyone? Nope, but I hope I am able to challenge those of you who wish to walk this walk with me to do bigger and better things and at least start moving. You are worth it and so am I. Believe it!
As many of you know, I had a complex sprain to my wrist at the beginning of a life changing workout program. I saw such promise and hope for the good things to come. I got a taste of the Glory of God in reward for my hard work. Then my setback. In the 4 short weeks of doing p90x, I lost 18 pounds and gained more confidence than I've had in years. I was no longer suffering from insomnia, I no longer felt ankle pain and I had more energy than I've had in years. I suddenly had a desire to do things with my children and the drive to actually get out and do it.
Did I have a setback with my injury? Sort of. But I let myself get worked up and off track. I did gain a few of the pounds back, but am only currently standing at five pounds up from that. So, I can proudly say that in my 4 weeks and subsequent about 7 weeks I have lost 13 pounds and have a renewed strength to keep going.
So, my new journey that you will be going with me starts officially August 1st with a new weigh in and measurements as well as pictures (debating when those will be posted ;-). I will be blogging my journey and my commitment to life change that I welcome you to join me in. Is this particular workout for everyone? Nope, but I hope I am able to challenge those of you who wish to walk this walk with me to do bigger and better things and at least start moving. You are worth it and so am I. Believe it!
July 20, 2011
Truth!!!
This evening, I got angry and I have to say, you wouldn't like me when I'm angry. Especially when it is something that attacks God!! Listen here folks! I am here to say that your lies are not ones that I nor my children will follow. I am here for the truth. Jesus was born. He died and He rose again for US. To save us from our sins from your lies and your hate. You cannot affect me and I will fight to the death for my children's souls.
Whew. Okay. So sorry my friends, but I am really angry. We were watching what grandpa would call the squawk box tonight and thought we would catch the new game show, "It's Worth What?" Good show until the producers angered me. One of the items was from like 1500 B.C.E. Wade and I looked at each and were like huh? Alec said it was Before Christ Existed, which I thought was totally sweet. I looked it up, and my blood started boiling.
The official definition is as follows
Definition: Abbreviation for 'Before Common Era', a non-religious alternative to the use of B.C. in designating the first period of the Gregorian Calendar, the era of prehistory and much of antiquity.
You try to take religion out of our schools. You try to take it out of our government. You try to take it out of our homes and even our churches sometimes. Listen here and listen close. You will NOT take it from my family and you cannot rewrite history!! It is HIS STORY. Not yours.
I have felt this super strong desire to write about this since Bible study last night, but this has sent me over the edge.
Our country was built on religious freedom. Those of you who aren't aware of the Mayflower Compact and what it REALLY said as opposed to what history books teach our children it is put at the bottom of this post.
Why is it our society is so worried about offending everyone BUT us. As a Christian, I am offended tonight. I am angry. Stop trying to take God out of everything and open your eyes because you are believing lies, people. God is EVERYTHING and He loves you despite your lies. Our founding fathers knew it. Just take a look at the text and you will see it. As Christians, we need to be strong in our faith and strong in our pursuit of the truth. Those who do not believe do not deserve to be persecuted, but they do have the right to be enlightened. It is not our place to shove it in their faces as they shove it in ours. We should encourage them to believe and pray for them because that is our strongest weapon against the lies. So tonight, I pray for the writers and everyone involved in that game show. I pray that the Lord opens their eyes and their hearts and helps them to see past the lies and go with the proven facts. Jesus lived on this Earth. He died for our sins and was raised from the dead so that we may live. Praise be to Him!! Please see note below***
Mayflower Compact
Whew. Okay. So sorry my friends, but I am really angry. We were watching what grandpa would call the squawk box tonight and thought we would catch the new game show, "It's Worth What?" Good show until the producers angered me. One of the items was from like 1500 B.C.E. Wade and I looked at each and were like huh? Alec said it was Before Christ Existed, which I thought was totally sweet. I looked it up, and my blood started boiling.
The official definition is as follows
Definition: Abbreviation for 'Before Common Era', a non-religious alternative to the use of B.C. in designating the first period of the Gregorian Calendar, the era of prehistory and much of antiquity.
You try to take religion out of our schools. You try to take it out of our government. You try to take it out of our homes and even our churches sometimes. Listen here and listen close. You will NOT take it from my family and you cannot rewrite history!! It is HIS STORY. Not yours.
I have felt this super strong desire to write about this since Bible study last night, but this has sent me over the edge.
Our country was built on religious freedom. Those of you who aren't aware of the Mayflower Compact and what it REALLY said as opposed to what history books teach our children it is put at the bottom of this post.
Why is it our society is so worried about offending everyone BUT us. As a Christian, I am offended tonight. I am angry. Stop trying to take God out of everything and open your eyes because you are believing lies, people. God is EVERYTHING and He loves you despite your lies. Our founding fathers knew it. Just take a look at the text and you will see it. As Christians, we need to be strong in our faith and strong in our pursuit of the truth. Those who do not believe do not deserve to be persecuted, but they do have the right to be enlightened. It is not our place to shove it in their faces as they shove it in ours. We should encourage them to believe and pray for them because that is our strongest weapon against the lies. So tonight, I pray for the writers and everyone involved in that game show. I pray that the Lord opens their eyes and their hearts and helps them to see past the lies and go with the proven facts. Jesus lived on this Earth. He died for our sins and was raised from the dead so that we may live. Praise be to Him!! Please see note below***
Mayflower Compact
| "In the name of God, Amen. We whose names are under-written, the loyal subjects of our dread sovereign Lord, King James, by the grace of God, of Great Britain, France, and Ireland King, Defender of the Faith, etc. Having undertaken, for the glory of God, and advancement of the Christian faith, and honor of our King and Country, a voyage to plant the first colony in the northern parts of Virginia, do by these presents solemnly and mutually, in the presence of God, and one of another, covenant and combine our selves together into a civil body politic, for our better ordering and preservation and furtherance of the ends aforesaid; and by virtue hereof to enact, constitute, and frame such just and equal laws, ordinances, acts, constitutions and offices, from time to time, as shall be thought most meet and convenient for the general good of the Colony, unto which we promise all due submission and obedience. In witness whereof we have hereunder subscribed our names at Cape Cod, the eleventh of November [New Style, November 21], in the year of the reign of our sovereign lord, King James, of England, France, and Ireland, the eighteenth, and of Scotland the fifty-fourth. Anno Dom. 1620." **** Please note I did not insert any references to God in this compact. They were written by those who came over on the Mayflower. They came here for the glory of God. How about we honor their sacrifice and give praises to God for the gift of this incredible land they paved the way through for us because we all owe them a debt we can never pay. You are history. You live it each moment. How are you going to live this day? Tomorrow? Are you going to sit quietly while others are feeding lies? Or are you going to bravely move forward and challenge those lies? I say, anyone who disagrees with me, GREAT! Let's talk. I'd love to show you where my facts come from. |
July 15, 2011
Special Moments
Sometimes a moment happens in this world that we can never prepare ourselves for. That moment came for me yesterday. Papaw was laid to rest yesterday. No, he's not related to me by blood, but that never mattered. He always accepted me and was always the kindest man. It also helps to see the love and genuine respect he gets from absolutely everyone he meets. He is a sepcial man who will truly be missed, but there is more to this than that.
Sometime in the afternoon, Jan asked me to go back to Granny's room to see if she was sleeping or not.
Granny was awake when I checked in on her. She saw me there and speechlessly, I stepped further into the room. I was suddenly like the little kid who got caught stealing from the cookie jar. After 17 years around this family, I know my place with her. As all spouses of the grandkids, we are accepted but always an outsider. I moved on tentatively.
"I was just checking to see if you need anything," I stammered as I walked in the room.
As she reached for me she said, "I love you, Kim" and pulled me into a tight embrace. I have never heard her say that before, and I didn't know how to respond. I cannot even start to express the love I felt in that very moment. Rare to see me at a lack of words, but there I was without them.
"Those babies so love their Papaw," she said.
"We all do Granny."
"What am I going to do without him?"
As the tears came, I held on tight and reassured her that Papaw is watching out for her and that one day, a long time from now she will be reunited with him. My heart broke as I thought of the 60 years together and how very lost this strong woman must be feeling.
I spent the next ten minutes holding the one woman who I had always thought hated me in my arms as she clung tight to me needing a reassurance that I hadn't expected to be the one to make.
We talked about how Papaw was no longer no longer in pain and was always a very patient man. We talked about the sweet rest he would have in Heaven and how he is in better hands now. We talked about how he is forever in her heart and would wait for her to catch up. We held each other so tight and so long that I could feel her ache.
I know her pain. I know her loss. But no one can ever understand losing your one true love until they go through it. I knew I couldn't even start to touch that pain, so at that moment I said the one thing that laid on my heart. I looked in her eyes and told her that we all are nothing without God. Moving forward can only be done in His strength and in His time. We hugged really tight once again before I told her to try to rest before leaving the room.
I will never forget that moment with her and today, I pray for her loss and her forward motion as she tries to face each day without the love of her life.
We don't know how she will move forward at this point, but God gives us strength of heart just when we need it most. I know He is with her, and that gives me comfort. Friends, hug someone today. Give them a smile. Tell them that even if they are completely lost in this world, God loves them. And be that example of God's love..be the Christian He wants you to be.
Sometime in the afternoon, Jan asked me to go back to Granny's room to see if she was sleeping or not.
Granny was awake when I checked in on her. She saw me there and speechlessly, I stepped further into the room. I was suddenly like the little kid who got caught stealing from the cookie jar. After 17 years around this family, I know my place with her. As all spouses of the grandkids, we are accepted but always an outsider. I moved on tentatively.
"I was just checking to see if you need anything," I stammered as I walked in the room.
As she reached for me she said, "I love you, Kim" and pulled me into a tight embrace. I have never heard her say that before, and I didn't know how to respond. I cannot even start to express the love I felt in that very moment. Rare to see me at a lack of words, but there I was without them.
"Those babies so love their Papaw," she said.
"We all do Granny."
"What am I going to do without him?"
As the tears came, I held on tight and reassured her that Papaw is watching out for her and that one day, a long time from now she will be reunited with him. My heart broke as I thought of the 60 years together and how very lost this strong woman must be feeling.
I spent the next ten minutes holding the one woman who I had always thought hated me in my arms as she clung tight to me needing a reassurance that I hadn't expected to be the one to make.
We talked about how Papaw was no longer no longer in pain and was always a very patient man. We talked about the sweet rest he would have in Heaven and how he is in better hands now. We talked about how he is forever in her heart and would wait for her to catch up. We held each other so tight and so long that I could feel her ache.
I know her pain. I know her loss. But no one can ever understand losing your one true love until they go through it. I knew I couldn't even start to touch that pain, so at that moment I said the one thing that laid on my heart. I looked in her eyes and told her that we all are nothing without God. Moving forward can only be done in His strength and in His time. We hugged really tight once again before I told her to try to rest before leaving the room.
I will never forget that moment with her and today, I pray for her loss and her forward motion as she tries to face each day without the love of her life.
We don't know how she will move forward at this point, but God gives us strength of heart just when we need it most. I know He is with her, and that gives me comfort. Friends, hug someone today. Give them a smile. Tell them that even if they are completely lost in this world, God loves them. And be that example of God's love..be the Christian He wants you to be.
June 2, 2011
Almost there
I had a friend make a simple post on Facebook that brought instant tears to my face. It was a link to a blog article that simply stated 18 Summers.
I have been dreading the end of the year because it never fails, my children spend about 90 percent of the summer fighting. But those words just changed it all.
We have 18 Summers with our children.
Take that in for a second. 18 precious years that seem so very long, but in the scheme of things are so short. When you think about the short time we actually have, it's hard to digest. It seems like just yesterday, I was sitting in my recliner in Peoria, Illinois rubbing my belly wondering what my precious Alec was going to look like and what kind of personality he would have. Today, I realized we are on his 9th Summer. Suddenly I wonder has it been enough. We are halfway there, but did I make each summer count for him!
We always think we have plenty of time, but do we really! We often fill our summers with the continuance of insane schedules. All kinds of things.. that are just that.. things.
This year, I have all intentions of getting up early and getting my work done for the most part when my children are still in bed. I don't want the computer to be all they remember about their summer. I want them to remember playing in the sprinkler, eating popsicles and going to the park. I want them to remember homemade ice cream and special time with their grandparents. I want them to remember sweet summer rain and playing in it. I want them to remember like I do because memories never fade, so we really need to make them count.
I have been dreading the end of the year because it never fails, my children spend about 90 percent of the summer fighting. But those words just changed it all.
We have 18 Summers with our children.
Take that in for a second. 18 precious years that seem so very long, but in the scheme of things are so short. When you think about the short time we actually have, it's hard to digest. It seems like just yesterday, I was sitting in my recliner in Peoria, Illinois rubbing my belly wondering what my precious Alec was going to look like and what kind of personality he would have. Today, I realized we are on his 9th Summer. Suddenly I wonder has it been enough. We are halfway there, but did I make each summer count for him!
We always think we have plenty of time, but do we really! We often fill our summers with the continuance of insane schedules. All kinds of things.. that are just that.. things.
This year, I have all intentions of getting up early and getting my work done for the most part when my children are still in bed. I don't want the computer to be all they remember about their summer. I want them to remember playing in the sprinkler, eating popsicles and going to the park. I want them to remember homemade ice cream and special time with their grandparents. I want them to remember sweet summer rain and playing in it. I want them to remember like I do because memories never fade, so we really need to make them count.
May 11, 2011
Unexpected Sources of Peanuts
As I contemplated what to share today, I thought of things that surprised me when we first found out about Owen's allergies. What all foods peanuts were in. It's crazy, quite honestly, the number of things. We were so very blessed to be newly diagnosed when the FDA passed regulations regarding food labels. They clearly had to list those top allergens, like peanuts. And now have to say that they were manufactured on shared equipment. That in itself is a whole other can of worms.
But what kinds of foods have peanuts in them besides the logical, peanuts and peanut butter? Let's take a look at this individually.
And speaking of chocolate. You all know those orange wrappers. Owen knows them too. Sitting at baseball practice a few weeks ago, I saw someone open one of those and started to tell Owen to be careful when he calmly looked at me and said, "Mom, orange wrapper, be careful." hee hee. My little boy is growing up and knows what to avoid. I'd be in trouble if Reese's ever changed the color of their wrapper. But it's not just the orange ones. Hershey's? Typically a no-no. The big packages that have 6 full sized bars in them, those are the safe ones, manufactured in clean facilities. And chocolate chips are another item to be careful of.
The list actually could go on and on and on, but I hope I've given you thought about the ingredients you put in your food. I already shared what has and could happen again if Owen were exposed to peanuts. It could be worse next time. Remember, nothing changes without education. Make sure that you be proactive and educate yourself. I focus on peanuts because those are the worst in our house, but the seven common allergens that are severe are peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, wheat, milk, fish and shellfish. These are all life-threatening as well as others, so try to be mindful when you have dinner guests or are participating in a bake sale even.
But what kinds of foods have peanuts in them besides the logical, peanuts and peanut butter? Let's take a look at this individually.
- Sauces such as chili sauce, hot sauce, pesto, gravy, mole sauce, and salad dressing - most often these are better and healthier homemade, so that is something to consider when purchasing sauces.
- Sweets such as pudding, cookies, and hot chocolate - This particular group isn't as surprising when you think of cookies and then pudding, but the hot chocolate threw us for a loop.
- Egg rolls - A lot of Asian cooking contains nuts. We avoid all Asian restaurants when Owen is with us to be proactive.
- Potato pancakes - This one surprised me at one point. My recommendation is to save your own mashed potatoes and make them yourselves. ;-) Again, homemade is always better when dealing with food allergies. Only you can control the ingredients in your foods.
- Pet food - Dog food and bird seed are two big culprits for having peanuts as an ingredient. Many dog's enjoy the taste of peanut butter. It's added protein to foods can be invaluable, but you have to be careful not to purchase those foods that include it. I say that because, imagine your dog ate his food and then "kissed" a peanut allergy kid. That can cause a severe reaction!!
- Specialty pizzas- Again, homemade is so much better. It's always a good rule of thumb to ask about ingredients. If they can't tell you, it's not worth it.
- Asian and Mexican dishes - As I said before, many Asian dishes have peanuts in them, as do Mexican dishes. Best rule of thumb is to avoid.
- Some vegetarian food products, especially those advertised as meat substitutes
- Foods that contain extruded, cold-pressed, or expelled peanut oil, which may contain peanut protein - Many allergists will actually tell you that you can have peanut oil, but they aren't specific that some peanut oils like the one listed here actually have those peanut proteins that individuals are allergic to.
- Glazes and marinades - These are very similar to sauces. They just aren't worth it for the most part.
And speaking of chocolate. You all know those orange wrappers. Owen knows them too. Sitting at baseball practice a few weeks ago, I saw someone open one of those and started to tell Owen to be careful when he calmly looked at me and said, "Mom, orange wrapper, be careful." hee hee. My little boy is growing up and knows what to avoid. I'd be in trouble if Reese's ever changed the color of their wrapper. But it's not just the orange ones. Hershey's? Typically a no-no. The big packages that have 6 full sized bars in them, those are the safe ones, manufactured in clean facilities. And chocolate chips are another item to be careful of.
The list actually could go on and on and on, but I hope I've given you thought about the ingredients you put in your food. I already shared what has and could happen again if Owen were exposed to peanuts. It could be worse next time. Remember, nothing changes without education. Make sure that you be proactive and educate yourself. I focus on peanuts because those are the worst in our house, but the seven common allergens that are severe are peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, wheat, milk, fish and shellfish. These are all life-threatening as well as others, so try to be mindful when you have dinner guests or are participating in a bake sale even.
May 9, 2011
Food Allergy Awareness Week
Food allergies are dangerous. If I don't get any other point across this week about them, please take that one piece of information and always keep it in the back of your head.
I'd like to take you to a dark day in our lives to show you the danger. Going back to December 4, 2009. It was a day like any others; running around ragged and trying to get everything done we needed to. That evening was Owen's special Christmas program at preschool, and we were all excited. We got all the kids together and went to enjoy the show. The preschool is awesome, first of all, and have a great organization to each event they have. Cookies are shared at the end of the performances so everyone has a chance at fellowship. I remember watching that program and being in awe of my big boy in his performance.
Once it was all done, the boys went with Wade to get some juice and cookies (please remember the preschool is a peanut-free environment) while I changed the baby's diaper. When the girls joined the boys, I saw they were already seated eating their cookies and didn't think anything of it at first as I was looking but not really seeing. Then I saw the one thing a food allergy kid Mom never wants to see and my heart stopped.
I saw my baby boy putting a cookie in his mouth that I knew was one that typically had peanut butter in it. Wade said that I became some strange super woman who smacked the cookie from his hand and shoved a Benadryl down his throat all in one second. Then I went in search of Ms. Julia, our preschool director. I needed to know what was in those cookies. I needed to know if he was truly in danger or if I was over-reacting. *Please note that Wade allowed the boys to get their own cookies and as a man, isn't aware of the typical ingredients in most cookies. He thought the cookie was sugar cookie. Remember, peanut-free environment.
After a few agonizing minutes and an announcement, my worst fears were confirmed. It had peanut butter in it. We called 911 and waited for the paramedics in the hall, praying we wouldn't have to use the epipen. I sat there holding Owen and making him repeat his alphabet. We started that to determine if we could hear a change in this voice or his breathing. We thought it would help us to know if it had gotten bad. The paramedics came and were great with him. They said while his heart rate was up, he seemed fine. Just watch him and the best thing would be for him to throw up. We went back in and felt better but not 5 minutes later, Owen threw up everywhere and started breaking out in hives. The reaction was continuing, and it was getting worse. Our preschool family was so very concerned as were we. We decided to stop at Station House 1 (the main fire station in our area) on the way home to have them check him out. When I brought him in, the 6 guys standing around understood my concern, but again, only his heart rate was elevated. They recommended more Benadryl and watching him. We took him home and did what they told us.
My heart said it was wrong. As I held Owen and prayed harder than I have ever prayed before, I felt my baby boy weaken and watched him transform before my eyes. He went from his beautiful pasty white winter skin to this horrendous red rash that covered him from head to toe. He was burning up suddenly and I was at a loss for what to do. We called friends for Alec and Sofia and rushed Owen to the emergency room.
That night is so much of a blur. The nurses tried to give him oral medication, but he couldn't keep it down. The doctor finally put the "straw" (iv) as they told Owen into his arm and pumped him full of steriods and epinephrine. They were fighting to save my baby's life, and I was helpless to do anything. They said his organs were the first to react to the peanuts. He was having an internal reaction rather than one we would normally see. He was in anaphylactic shock the minute the first paramedics were on the scene, but none of us could see it. Every reaction is different, but Owen's wasn't typical or was it easy to spot.
We spent a good portion of the night praying over our little boy before I finally sent Wade home because we knew he had to go to work the next morning. I remember him waking up the next morning and squeezing my hand. My heart burst with love as he told me he was hungry and tired and wanted to know when we were going to be able to go home. As any of my Mom friends can attest to, seeing your child in pain is one thing, but if you ever see your child fight for his life, you have seen one day too many.
This wasn't just over with the discharge from the hospital. You have to remember that his father gave him the cookie. Wade felt guilty; a guilt that no Daddy should ever have to feel. He didn't mean to do it; it was an accident. Owen doesn't remember that night, thank goodness, but he does remember the cookie. And he remembers the days and months after of being sick and eventually (6 months later) being diagnosed with asthma because his lungs never fully recovered from the reaction. He actually shys away from cookies now because he does know what can happen.
Our baby is still alive, but the lesson from this story is that ignorance can cause death. The mother that ignored the signs and reminders that were posted everywhere that there to be no peanut products included in the cookies.. the mother that put my child's life in danger.. She chose to bring those cookies. She chose to ignore the warnings. She could have killed my child. Food allergies are dangerous, but equally as dangerous is not being careful. We learned many lessons that night, but the most important is that we need to be diligent to teach Owen how to live in a peanut world. It's everywhere, and no matter how determined I am to keep him safe, I cannot possibly get rid of the peanut industry (although I would love to). So, I prayed and determined that the lesson I could take from God in all this was that it is my job to make sure anyone I have contact with is educated and knows how severe food allergies can be.
Food allergies are dangerous. Food allergies can kill. Be alert. Be safe. and Be AWARE.
I'd like to take you to a dark day in our lives to show you the danger. Going back to December 4, 2009. It was a day like any others; running around ragged and trying to get everything done we needed to. That evening was Owen's special Christmas program at preschool, and we were all excited. We got all the kids together and went to enjoy the show. The preschool is awesome, first of all, and have a great organization to each event they have. Cookies are shared at the end of the performances so everyone has a chance at fellowship. I remember watching that program and being in awe of my big boy in his performance.
Once it was all done, the boys went with Wade to get some juice and cookies (please remember the preschool is a peanut-free environment) while I changed the baby's diaper. When the girls joined the boys, I saw they were already seated eating their cookies and didn't think anything of it at first as I was looking but not really seeing. Then I saw the one thing a food allergy kid Mom never wants to see and my heart stopped.
I saw my baby boy putting a cookie in his mouth that I knew was one that typically had peanut butter in it. Wade said that I became some strange super woman who smacked the cookie from his hand and shoved a Benadryl down his throat all in one second. Then I went in search of Ms. Julia, our preschool director. I needed to know what was in those cookies. I needed to know if he was truly in danger or if I was over-reacting. *Please note that Wade allowed the boys to get their own cookies and as a man, isn't aware of the typical ingredients in most cookies. He thought the cookie was sugar cookie. Remember, peanut-free environment.
After a few agonizing minutes and an announcement, my worst fears were confirmed. It had peanut butter in it. We called 911 and waited for the paramedics in the hall, praying we wouldn't have to use the epipen. I sat there holding Owen and making him repeat his alphabet. We started that to determine if we could hear a change in this voice or his breathing. We thought it would help us to know if it had gotten bad. The paramedics came and were great with him. They said while his heart rate was up, he seemed fine. Just watch him and the best thing would be for him to throw up. We went back in and felt better but not 5 minutes later, Owen threw up everywhere and started breaking out in hives. The reaction was continuing, and it was getting worse. Our preschool family was so very concerned as were we. We decided to stop at Station House 1 (the main fire station in our area) on the way home to have them check him out. When I brought him in, the 6 guys standing around understood my concern, but again, only his heart rate was elevated. They recommended more Benadryl and watching him. We took him home and did what they told us.
My heart said it was wrong. As I held Owen and prayed harder than I have ever prayed before, I felt my baby boy weaken and watched him transform before my eyes. He went from his beautiful pasty white winter skin to this horrendous red rash that covered him from head to toe. He was burning up suddenly and I was at a loss for what to do. We called friends for Alec and Sofia and rushed Owen to the emergency room.
That night is so much of a blur. The nurses tried to give him oral medication, but he couldn't keep it down. The doctor finally put the "straw" (iv) as they told Owen into his arm and pumped him full of steriods and epinephrine. They were fighting to save my baby's life, and I was helpless to do anything. They said his organs were the first to react to the peanuts. He was having an internal reaction rather than one we would normally see. He was in anaphylactic shock the minute the first paramedics were on the scene, but none of us could see it. Every reaction is different, but Owen's wasn't typical or was it easy to spot.
We spent a good portion of the night praying over our little boy before I finally sent Wade home because we knew he had to go to work the next morning. I remember him waking up the next morning and squeezing my hand. My heart burst with love as he told me he was hungry and tired and wanted to know when we were going to be able to go home. As any of my Mom friends can attest to, seeing your child in pain is one thing, but if you ever see your child fight for his life, you have seen one day too many.
This wasn't just over with the discharge from the hospital. You have to remember that his father gave him the cookie. Wade felt guilty; a guilt that no Daddy should ever have to feel. He didn't mean to do it; it was an accident. Owen doesn't remember that night, thank goodness, but he does remember the cookie. And he remembers the days and months after of being sick and eventually (6 months later) being diagnosed with asthma because his lungs never fully recovered from the reaction. He actually shys away from cookies now because he does know what can happen.
Our baby is still alive, but the lesson from this story is that ignorance can cause death. The mother that ignored the signs and reminders that were posted everywhere that there to be no peanut products included in the cookies.. the mother that put my child's life in danger.. She chose to bring those cookies. She chose to ignore the warnings. She could have killed my child. Food allergies are dangerous, but equally as dangerous is not being careful. We learned many lessons that night, but the most important is that we need to be diligent to teach Owen how to live in a peanut world. It's everywhere, and no matter how determined I am to keep him safe, I cannot possibly get rid of the peanut industry (although I would love to). So, I prayed and determined that the lesson I could take from God in all this was that it is my job to make sure anyone I have contact with is educated and knows how severe food allergies can be.
Food allergies are dangerous. Food allergies can kill. Be alert. Be safe. and Be AWARE.
May 3, 2011
You want me to put what where and do what?
I believe my title says it all. So, I have worked super hard to get control of my eating, as many of you know, but I felt like it was time to start working on the whole exercise thing. Yes, that was the only 8 letter word that I considered worse than cursing. But I have been walking and added working out last Thursday. Doing really good and decided to plunge right into the P90X workout that Wade decided it was time to get.
Tony is his name. He's actually quite motivating. Another friend of mine thinks he's annoying. I can see that, but I marvel at his form and yeah, well, he does have a body that reminds me of a Greek god. I'm not looking to get ripped, although, that would be really cool one day. I'm looking to get fit, and P90X does that for people. Am I ready to do all the workouts, heck no!! I don't know a skinny person ready to do all the workouts. After doing some of the "easier" (Whatever) workouts the past few days, I decided to suck it up and start the actual process today. I did chest and back as well as the ab ripper. HOLY CRAP. While my calves are hurting from yesterday's jump roping exercises, thanks to You Tube (Great place to get workouts btw), I have to say my arms are already sore and my abs will never be the same. I had no clue I even had muscles in some of those places!!
But I'm one step closer to the right direction. I am sure it would please Bob (yeah, I'm a Biggest Loser fan) to know that I'm starting the process and working hard.
So tomorrow is another day, and I can't wait to see what plyometrics are. I think I am in for some insanity tomorrow ;-) I will have to update you when I survive and if I can still walk when this is all over.
Tony is his name. He's actually quite motivating. Another friend of mine thinks he's annoying. I can see that, but I marvel at his form and yeah, well, he does have a body that reminds me of a Greek god. I'm not looking to get ripped, although, that would be really cool one day. I'm looking to get fit, and P90X does that for people. Am I ready to do all the workouts, heck no!! I don't know a skinny person ready to do all the workouts. After doing some of the "easier" (Whatever) workouts the past few days, I decided to suck it up and start the actual process today. I did chest and back as well as the ab ripper. HOLY CRAP. While my calves are hurting from yesterday's jump roping exercises, thanks to You Tube (Great place to get workouts btw), I have to say my arms are already sore and my abs will never be the same. I had no clue I even had muscles in some of those places!!
But I'm one step closer to the right direction. I am sure it would please Bob (yeah, I'm a Biggest Loser fan) to know that I'm starting the process and working hard.
So tomorrow is another day, and I can't wait to see what plyometrics are. I think I am in for some insanity tomorrow ;-) I will have to update you when I survive and if I can still walk when this is all over.
May 2, 2011
Thank you!
Today is a day to thank our service men and women who have found victory on the battle field. That being said, I do not wish to offend by saying the rest of this, but this is NOT a day to celebrate!!!
As an American, I can say that it is most satisfying to know that there are great individuals out there protecting our country and doing their job. For that, I am very thankful. As a Christian, I cannot help but think that God is a little sad today.
The Bible says that God never rejoices at the death of the wicked. "Say to them, ‘As surely as I live, declares the Sovereign LORD, I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that they turn from their ways and live. Turn! Turn from your evil ways! Why will you die, people of Israel?’" Ezekiel 33:11
If we are to be Christlike, then we must not rejoice in the death of Bin Laden, the death of the unsaved. It is a sad thing when someone dies and goes into Hell. No Christian who has God's love in their heart should be glad to see anyone go to Hell. Many people rejoice that sinners are burning, but God is not pleased about it. God does not want ANY soul to perish in Hell.
"The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." 2 Peter 3:9
I know this isn't popular thought today, but I can't help but be sad with God today. I see His tears in our rain. I say a prayer to thank God for the individuals who protect our country and even those who have "brought down the enemy," but I will not choose to celebrate the death of a sinner and the condemnation to Hell.
As an American, I can say that it is most satisfying to know that there are great individuals out there protecting our country and doing their job. For that, I am very thankful. As a Christian, I cannot help but think that God is a little sad today.
The Bible says that God never rejoices at the death of the wicked. "Say to them, ‘As surely as I live, declares the Sovereign LORD, I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that they turn from their ways and live. Turn! Turn from your evil ways! Why will you die, people of Israel?’" Ezekiel 33:11
If we are to be Christlike, then we must not rejoice in the death of Bin Laden, the death of the unsaved. It is a sad thing when someone dies and goes into Hell. No Christian who has God's love in their heart should be glad to see anyone go to Hell. Many people rejoice that sinners are burning, but God is not pleased about it. God does not want ANY soul to perish in Hell.
"The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." 2 Peter 3:9
I know this isn't popular thought today, but I can't help but be sad with God today. I see His tears in our rain. I say a prayer to thank God for the individuals who protect our country and even those who have "brought down the enemy," but I will not choose to celebrate the death of a sinner and the condemnation to Hell.
April 23, 2011
We sit numb....
You know the feeling. We didn't just watch a man die here. We watched our Jesus die. We saw Him hang from the cross. We watched him suffer. We fear the Jewish leaders. We hide from them hoping to save ourselves. It's the day after, and we sit here numb.......
There isn't much information in the Bible about the Saturday after. It is a day meant for rest and reflection because on this day Jesus "rested" in the tomb. This Silent Saturday is a long day. A long long day. It represents life as it is for all of us in so many ways. Though we like to say that we live on the other side of Easter and that of course is true in the ultimate sense, it is also true that we live somewhere between Good Friday and Easter Sunday.
The crucifixion is behind us, but death is still with us. The final victory lies somewhere in the future. Every funeral reminds us that the final enemy that will be destroyed is death. Death was defeated by Jesus, but it has not yet been destroyed. That happy day is still in front of us.
Get ready!!! Something is about to happen that hasn't happened yet!! Thank God!!!! Praise the Lord that we are not moving back toward the crucifixion. It may be Saturday, but we're moving toward Easter. Sunday's coming. All we have to do is hold on a little while longer and Sunday will be here.
I say Keep the Faith! Yesterday our Lord was crucified. Today his body lies in the tomb. Tomorrow he rises from the dead. Saturday can seem like a long day. It is! But be positive. The crucifixion is behind us, and Saturday will not last forever. Sooner than we think, Sunday will be here.
We are on the march from Good Friday through Holy Saturday to Easter Sunday. We aren't quite there, but we're moving in the right direction. It's Saturday, but Sunday's coming. Let that thought give strength to your heart today.
You know the feeling. We didn't just watch a man die here. We watched our Jesus die. We saw Him hang from the cross. We watched him suffer. We fear the Jewish leaders. We hide from them hoping to save ourselves. It's the day after, and we sit here numb.......
There isn't much information in the Bible about the Saturday after. It is a day meant for rest and reflection because on this day Jesus "rested" in the tomb. This Silent Saturday is a long day. A long long day. It represents life as it is for all of us in so many ways. Though we like to say that we live on the other side of Easter and that of course is true in the ultimate sense, it is also true that we live somewhere between Good Friday and Easter Sunday.
The crucifixion is behind us, but death is still with us. The final victory lies somewhere in the future. Every funeral reminds us that the final enemy that will be destroyed is death. Death was defeated by Jesus, but it has not yet been destroyed. That happy day is still in front of us.
Get ready!!! Something is about to happen that hasn't happened yet!! Thank God!!!! Praise the Lord that we are not moving back toward the crucifixion. It may be Saturday, but we're moving toward Easter. Sunday's coming. All we have to do is hold on a little while longer and Sunday will be here.
I say Keep the Faith! Yesterday our Lord was crucified. Today his body lies in the tomb. Tomorrow he rises from the dead. Saturday can seem like a long day. It is! But be positive. The crucifixion is behind us, and Saturday will not last forever. Sooner than we think, Sunday will be here.
We are on the march from Good Friday through Holy Saturday to Easter Sunday. We aren't quite there, but we're moving in the right direction. It's Saturday, but Sunday's coming. Let that thought give strength to your heart today.
March 29, 2011
When Girls go WILD
Now, I'm not talking taking clothes off and being crazy drunk, although, I kinda am. hee hee. I have determined that having a girl makes everything different!! EVERYTHING! They aren't like boys. They don't react to things in the same way nor do they expect things in a similar manner.
Take my sweet and sometimes hard to tolerate Monkeypants. I adore her, don't get me wrong. I'm blessed to have a little girl that I treasure and love, but she IS going to be the death of me!!! Let's talk specifics here.
In just the past month, she has managed to run away 2 times, climb three shelves up on her built-in bookcase to get and spread lotion throughout her bedroom (and cleaned it up, mind you), pour a 5 lb bag of flour on herself, the dog and the dog's bed, dump every box of baking powder or soda (I can never tell the difference between the two) all over the floor in front of the pantry, put sprinkles in every nook and cranny that exists in my house, drink enough hand sanitizer to get drunk but not sick and deleted the $4.99 app from my iPad that she plays the most. All of this accomplished with an adult somewhere close by and present. SERIOUSLY!! It isn't like we leave her alone for an extended period of time. We have found that we can't.
She can undo any child lock you put in front of her and has been the reason for the newly purchased iron gate that stands above my waist in my hallway and the antique door newly installed and locked to prevent her leaving this one space. And yet, I maintain that the child will be the death of me. Even when everything is removed from her grasp, she still manages to trash things. And when she has nothing to trash, it's cool to climb all over Mommy as if she is a jungle gym preventing her from getting a single thing done. As she is doing this very minute. I've learned to type under some certainly extreme situations-- my editor will appreciate that one day. ;-)
I believe that God has a really good sense of humor. My children show me that. The 9 year old who refuses to smile for a picture until I tell him to think of something funny in which he bursts out laughing so hard I think he's going to cry. When asked what struck him so funny, he replies, "you, Mom, in skinny jeans." REALLY! Or my dear 6 year old, who cannot possibly go through a single day without making me laugh so hard my face hurts. With his over dramatic hand motions as he tries to explain his point or his point in general that tends to be just slightly off kilter. And my precious Monkeypants.... all 2 years of ornery and sweetness rolled into one. If I didn't laugh at her, I would probably cry.
Just when I'm about to meltdown or need a Mommy Time Out, God throws me an insight that makes me have to smile and remember, I have to be flexible because that's what it is like to be a Mommy. Forever cleaning those messes that we didn't anticipate or cuddling because that is just what is needed at that time, despite the busy lives we lead and the "to do list" that never gets done.
Just remember.....
Psalm 127:3
Children are a heritage from the LORD,
offspring a reward from him.
Thank you, dear Jesus for such blessings and such reward. I am forever grateful for the gifts that you provide.
Take my sweet and sometimes hard to tolerate Monkeypants. I adore her, don't get me wrong. I'm blessed to have a little girl that I treasure and love, but she IS going to be the death of me!!! Let's talk specifics here.
In just the past month, she has managed to run away 2 times, climb three shelves up on her built-in bookcase to get and spread lotion throughout her bedroom (and cleaned it up, mind you), pour a 5 lb bag of flour on herself, the dog and the dog's bed, dump every box of baking powder or soda (I can never tell the difference between the two) all over the floor in front of the pantry, put sprinkles in every nook and cranny that exists in my house, drink enough hand sanitizer to get drunk but not sick and deleted the $4.99 app from my iPad that she plays the most. All of this accomplished with an adult somewhere close by and present. SERIOUSLY!! It isn't like we leave her alone for an extended period of time. We have found that we can't.She can undo any child lock you put in front of her and has been the reason for the newly purchased iron gate that stands above my waist in my hallway and the antique door newly installed and locked to prevent her leaving this one space. And yet, I maintain that the child will be the death of me. Even when everything is removed from her grasp, she still manages to trash things. And when she has nothing to trash, it's cool to climb all over Mommy as if she is a jungle gym preventing her from getting a single thing done. As she is doing this very minute. I've learned to type under some certainly extreme situations-- my editor will appreciate that one day. ;-)
I believe that God has a really good sense of humor. My children show me that. The 9 year old who refuses to smile for a picture until I tell him to think of something funny in which he bursts out laughing so hard I think he's going to cry. When asked what struck him so funny, he replies, "you, Mom, in skinny jeans." REALLY! Or my dear 6 year old, who cannot possibly go through a single day without making me laugh so hard my face hurts. With his over dramatic hand motions as he tries to explain his point or his point in general that tends to be just slightly off kilter. And my precious Monkeypants.... all 2 years of ornery and sweetness rolled into one. If I didn't laugh at her, I would probably cry.Just when I'm about to meltdown or need a Mommy Time Out, God throws me an insight that makes me have to smile and remember, I have to be flexible because that's what it is like to be a Mommy. Forever cleaning those messes that we didn't anticipate or cuddling because that is just what is needed at that time, despite the busy lives we lead and the "to do list" that never gets done.
Just remember.....Psalm 127:3
Children are a heritage from the LORD,
offspring a reward from him.
Thank you, dear Jesus for such blessings and such reward. I am forever grateful for the gifts that you provide.
March 24, 2011
For the Love of Flowers
When I moved into this house almost 6 years ago, I had hopes and dreams of keeping a beautiful flower garden in all the flower beds. There were hostas, black-eyed Susans, some big bushes that I couldn't even name, some purple flowers the previous owner had had in her wedding that I TRIED to kill but still haven't died, lots of different varieties of flowers.
My dream quickly faded as some of the best, sturdiest plants became overtaken by weeds. Man, I tried. I really did. But with 2 small children at that time and life's devious plans to move forward faster despite my need for time to slow down, it became completely impossible to keep up with those weeds. At one point, I actually couldn't tell the weeds for the flowers and was sure I would be fined by the city for not trimming them. I actually had that conversation with Wade. We decided it was time to do something about it and spent an entire month, it seemed buckled into that front flower garden getting rid of the weeds. It took every effort we had, only to find more weeds the following week. I thought we were doomed!!
But I saw a light at the end of the tunnel and was okay with the disaster that was my front yard, so long as my dear neighbor, Nick, did not improve his. Despite the fact that my friends and family joked about turning me into the HGTV show, Desperate Landscapes, I still knew that it could have been worse. I mean, I watched that show all the time. There were some pretty desperate lawns on that show. Yes, I was in some serious denial at that time.
Then one day, the horrible happened, not only had Nick done a little work in his yard, it looked better than mine!!!! And THEN, something that was spectacular but detrimental happened. Angela. My sweet and precious friend that I truly love and loathe at the same time. She has a green thumb. The greenest of all. She had hopes and desires, not different than my own when I had moved into our house. She was going to turn Nick's flower beds into something beautiful. Let me back up. Angela, Nick's girlfriend, had come to visit from India (and I can't wait until she lives her permanently because I miss her more than I would miss my left arm!). Angela was putting a great female twist on Nick's life, but we won't go into the smile that she put on his face and all that lovey-dovey stuff. It's about the flowers. The plants. That is why I say loathe. I don't have ill will for her whatsoever; I just cannot believe the awesome work she put in.
I would see her each day, out in the garden, weeding and planting new seeds and making a work of art. I even saw Nick out there doing work like the new paver patio and knew I was in trouble. So, I buckled down and began to work as hard as I could on my front flower bed. Rearranged things, bought some new bulbs, tried to take out those stupid blue plants again (they have already started coming up this year, so I'm doomed to keep the ones I do not like), put in a new bush at the end as I had taken out the big ones that were up there before and put in new weed cloth and mulch to finish out the bed. Then to top it all off and make it even better, I put a new border of stones around the front and a little fence to frame the back. Everyone in the neighborhood would come around and comment if we were out on how great it looked (which only goes to show they were surely talking about it before :-\)
Why do I mention this today? Well, I weeded my flower bed this morning with Angela on my mind. Thinking how proud she would be of me. I have a jump start on the season and am going to get mulch by the end of the day so that I can cover the hostas and protect them from the cold weather over the next few weeks. As I stood with my glove on pulling out weeds, I glanced over to see Angela's beautiful daffodils. And the start of her new tulips that she planted knowing she would not get to see them this year. I couldn't help but feel sad. I have been thinking of her gift of friendship to us and how she makes us better people. And her gift to Nick, her flowers. Last year as we planted together and decided what flowers should be there, she planned those flowers that she knew would come up when she went back home. And each time they came up, I'm sure they made Nick smile because they made me smile and my children who love her so much. This beautiful woman has come into our lives from halfway around the world to give us love in flowers.They are wonderful reminders that she will be back to tend them before we even realize it. But in the meantime, we will send her pictures and make sure the flowers are tended to because God gives us precious friends to remind us of the kind of people we should be. So today as I look to getting mulch, I will think of Angela's flowers and smile knowing the joy the pictures will bring her until she can come home again.
My dream quickly faded as some of the best, sturdiest plants became overtaken by weeds. Man, I tried. I really did. But with 2 small children at that time and life's devious plans to move forward faster despite my need for time to slow down, it became completely impossible to keep up with those weeds. At one point, I actually couldn't tell the weeds for the flowers and was sure I would be fined by the city for not trimming them. I actually had that conversation with Wade. We decided it was time to do something about it and spent an entire month, it seemed buckled into that front flower garden getting rid of the weeds. It took every effort we had, only to find more weeds the following week. I thought we were doomed!!
But I saw a light at the end of the tunnel and was okay with the disaster that was my front yard, so long as my dear neighbor, Nick, did not improve his. Despite the fact that my friends and family joked about turning me into the HGTV show, Desperate Landscapes, I still knew that it could have been worse. I mean, I watched that show all the time. There were some pretty desperate lawns on that show. Yes, I was in some serious denial at that time.
Then one day, the horrible happened, not only had Nick done a little work in his yard, it looked better than mine!!!! And THEN, something that was spectacular but detrimental happened. Angela. My sweet and precious friend that I truly love and loathe at the same time. She has a green thumb. The greenest of all. She had hopes and desires, not different than my own when I had moved into our house. She was going to turn Nick's flower beds into something beautiful. Let me back up. Angela, Nick's girlfriend, had come to visit from India (and I can't wait until she lives her permanently because I miss her more than I would miss my left arm!). Angela was putting a great female twist on Nick's life, but we won't go into the smile that she put on his face and all that lovey-dovey stuff. It's about the flowers. The plants. That is why I say loathe. I don't have ill will for her whatsoever; I just cannot believe the awesome work she put in.
I would see her each day, out in the garden, weeding and planting new seeds and making a work of art. I even saw Nick out there doing work like the new paver patio and knew I was in trouble. So, I buckled down and began to work as hard as I could on my front flower bed. Rearranged things, bought some new bulbs, tried to take out those stupid blue plants again (they have already started coming up this year, so I'm doomed to keep the ones I do not like), put in a new bush at the end as I had taken out the big ones that were up there before and put in new weed cloth and mulch to finish out the bed. Then to top it all off and make it even better, I put a new border of stones around the front and a little fence to frame the back. Everyone in the neighborhood would come around and comment if we were out on how great it looked (which only goes to show they were surely talking about it before :-\)
 |
| Angela's Daffodils |
March 21, 2011
Beautiful Firsts
This is a first for Sofia. Yeah, my 2 year old has never had an ice cream cone. So Wade took the kids up to get them and each had theirs to carry. When he hands hers to her, her little eyes were suddenly as big as ever and her grin matched. Oh what a great look on her face. Then she took her first bite. It was so cute to watch her eating that thing and being so happy. You could see she felt like such a big girl.Imagine our surprise when she spit out a tiny bite of the cone. She kinda freaked and kept saying broken. I realized she didn't realize it could be eaten. It was just a vessel for her. So, I asked Alec to show her it can be eaten. She looked at him as if he were crazy at first, and then took her first bite. She looked at me like WHAT. hee hee. It was so darn cute.
March 17, 2011
Living your Passion
So many of us live our lives never realizing our one true passion in life...that one skill in our lives that God has given us to provide us with a meaningful, truly happy existence. If you do not combine your work with your passion you will never achieve excellence and fulfillment.
During a tough battle in World War II, General George Patton, one of the greatest military leaders of all time, said about battle, "God, I love it!" King David, also a warrior,s aid, "God, I love you!" Who would you like to be associated? Think about it for a minute. No, seriously. King David was a passionate warrior as can be seen throughout 2 Samuel. (2 Samuel 5:18-25, 21:15-22:4, 22:29-32 and in Psalm 18:2-3, 18:30-40, 60:10) How did David express his passion for God and what did that do for him?
What can it do for you? We are in a time where most of us are not in the military. We go to work every day and spend our 40 hours doing what? What kind of passion do we find there? Why is our passion so infrequently seen at work?
David's world of work and his passion for God were integrated. He said, "God is my rock...my stronghold, my refuge, and my savior" (2 Samuel 22:3). If your world of work (or school or everyday living) and your passion for God were integrated, chose the words you might use to complete this sentence: "God is my ...
I answer that saying inspiration. I am living my passion of writing and truly loving life. Time with my children and husband. Fulfilled by the Holy Spirit in a very fulfilling work. What is your passion? Do you live it?
What blocks you from finding your passion, even integrating it into your current work? Is work meant to be boring, only a paycheck? Is fulfilling God's Will always sacrificial of your passions? If you follow your passions, will your income drop dramatically? No, I don't think so.
Do you know someone who is a person of passion? Can you think about their qualities and what makes them so passionate?During a tough battle in World War II, General George Patton, one of the greatest military leaders of all time, said about battle, "God, I love it!" King David, also a warrior,s aid, "God, I love you!" Who would you like to be associated? Think about it for a minute. No, seriously. King David was a passionate warrior as can be seen throughout 2 Samuel. (2 Samuel 5:18-25, 21:15-22:4, 22:29-32 and in Psalm 18:2-3, 18:30-40, 60:10) How did David express his passion for God and what did that do for him?
What can it do for you? We are in a time where most of us are not in the military. We go to work every day and spend our 40 hours doing what? What kind of passion do we find there? Why is our passion so infrequently seen at work?
David's world of work and his passion for God were integrated. He said, "God is my rock...my stronghold, my refuge, and my savior" (2 Samuel 22:3). If your world of work (or school or everyday living) and your passion for God were integrated, chose the words you might use to complete this sentence: "God is my ...
I answer that saying inspiration. I am living my passion of writing and truly loving life. Time with my children and husband. Fulfilled by the Holy Spirit in a very fulfilling work. What is your passion? Do you live it?
March 13, 2011
Outrageous
I have waited out typing this emotional blog for a few days because my heart wasn't ready to face the insane truth in life. People do not care about other people, even children. And on top of that, they are teaching their children not to care.
Ignorance angers me beyond words. Ignorance scares me beyond words. Ignorance frustrates me to words. As I sit here typing this there is another mother praying over her child who is sick because of a deadly allergy to peanuts.... There is a mother praying over her child who is living with a deadly allergy to peanuts... There is a mother praying over her child's grave because of a deadly allergy to peanuts. I am not writing this for anyone but those mothers who walk this line with me. Please read on if you don't live it though as you deserve to not be ignorant.
As I prepared for bed the other night, the news teased me with a story. Let me allow you to read it for yourself.....http://www.cfnews13.com/article/news/2011/march/216839/Peanut-allergy-panic-at-Edgewater-school-has-peeved-parents-protesting
Now let me vent, dear friends. These parents are the ignorant that bring me to tears. I sit listening to stories like this and can't help but think of that battle I prepared for when I started the process of entering the schools. My little Owen needed an advocate, and we are his parents, the only true individuals in this world that give a crap about his life or death.
I have dear friends that i know think me crazy. I have friends who believe life must include peanut butter and their children might die without it. I have friends who say they understand who can never fathom the depths of what could happen. And I love them all, but until i educate them and others i haven't done my true job of protecting my child or living the destiny that God has given me.
Children with peanut allergies live their lives knowing that at any minute, it could be their last. Wanna know how severe, have ONE conversation with Owen about his allergy. Last week he came home from school and said, "Mom, know why I am wearing my fanny pack (he carries his epipen on him) on my hip?" I replied, "No, bud. Why?" His reply just shows how young he truly is. "I can unzip with this hand (left) and grab my pen like a gun in those things and stab my leg in seconds. I can be the hero and the hurt guy all at the same time."
How very sad that he lives in a world in which there are parents teaching their children that it is okay to pick on kids like him and parents who think washing their hands and mouths are an interruption into their children's school day. My response to that is this, "Do any of you care that a child can die in the hands of your own child because of your carelessness? Do any of you understand the interruption in the day should a peanut allergy child actually be exposed at school? Do you understand the emotional damage to a child who has to witness another child going into anaphylactic shock? Do any of you truly care about the life of a child and how can you possibly live with yourself and your ignorance knowing that you are fighting against a child's life!!"
I can tell you stories upon stores, but i will save that for my book. Yes, I am working on that as I have time. In the meantime, I urge teachers, parents, children even to educate themselves on this. Educate yourself on what your schools are doing. Those in our school district, know that there are safeguards n place for kids like Owen and if the severity increases, so do those safeguards. Anyone who has the nerve to tell me to my face to keep my kid home because their children deserve an education of convenience over my child, you will get my opinion. I love to educate and I will fight to the end of MY life educating those ignorant because if we keep going like this, no one will ever learn....
Ignorance angers me beyond words. Ignorance scares me beyond words. Ignorance frustrates me to words. As I sit here typing this there is another mother praying over her child who is sick because of a deadly allergy to peanuts.... There is a mother praying over her child who is living with a deadly allergy to peanuts... There is a mother praying over her child's grave because of a deadly allergy to peanuts. I am not writing this for anyone but those mothers who walk this line with me. Please read on if you don't live it though as you deserve to not be ignorant.
As I prepared for bed the other night, the news teased me with a story. Let me allow you to read it for yourself.....http://www.cfnews13.com/article/news/2011/march/216839/Peanut-allergy-panic-at-Edgewater-school-has-peeved-parents-protesting
Now let me vent, dear friends. These parents are the ignorant that bring me to tears. I sit listening to stories like this and can't help but think of that battle I prepared for when I started the process of entering the schools. My little Owen needed an advocate, and we are his parents, the only true individuals in this world that give a crap about his life or death.
I have dear friends that i know think me crazy. I have friends who believe life must include peanut butter and their children might die without it. I have friends who say they understand who can never fathom the depths of what could happen. And I love them all, but until i educate them and others i haven't done my true job of protecting my child or living the destiny that God has given me.
Children with peanut allergies live their lives knowing that at any minute, it could be their last. Wanna know how severe, have ONE conversation with Owen about his allergy. Last week he came home from school and said, "Mom, know why I am wearing my fanny pack (he carries his epipen on him) on my hip?" I replied, "No, bud. Why?" His reply just shows how young he truly is. "I can unzip with this hand (left) and grab my pen like a gun in those things and stab my leg in seconds. I can be the hero and the hurt guy all at the same time."
How very sad that he lives in a world in which there are parents teaching their children that it is okay to pick on kids like him and parents who think washing their hands and mouths are an interruption into their children's school day. My response to that is this, "Do any of you care that a child can die in the hands of your own child because of your carelessness? Do any of you understand the interruption in the day should a peanut allergy child actually be exposed at school? Do you understand the emotional damage to a child who has to witness another child going into anaphylactic shock? Do any of you truly care about the life of a child and how can you possibly live with yourself and your ignorance knowing that you are fighting against a child's life!!"
I can tell you stories upon stores, but i will save that for my book. Yes, I am working on that as I have time. In the meantime, I urge teachers, parents, children even to educate themselves on this. Educate yourself on what your schools are doing. Those in our school district, know that there are safeguards n place for kids like Owen and if the severity increases, so do those safeguards. Anyone who has the nerve to tell me to my face to keep my kid home because their children deserve an education of convenience over my child, you will get my opinion. I love to educate and I will fight to the end of MY life educating those ignorant because if we keep going like this, no one will ever learn....
March 11, 2011
Another Blessed Day
I am so blessed. I could say that and be done with this post quite honestly.
I'm not going to tell you all the hopes for my birthday (like my voice to come back) and all that boring stuff. I don't want to brag about my amazing husband. I don't want to invoke crazy jealousy about that stud. It just wouldn't be right.
Today, I just want to share in my joy of The Lord.
He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from the beginning to end.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 NIV
I'm not going to tell you all the hopes for my birthday (like my voice to come back) and all that boring stuff. I don't want to brag about my amazing husband. I don't want to invoke crazy jealousy about that stud. It just wouldn't be right.
Today, I just want to share in my joy of The Lord.
He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from the beginning to end.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 NIV
March 8, 2011
Trials Help Us Grow
Well, the week has been very trying and unfortunately, when that happens, it's so very easy to fall into old habits. I didn't eat as healthy this week as I did my first week. My weigh in this morning was 260.4. While that is still a loss of .4 pounds, that seems so insignificant to me. I am not in the slightest bit ready to quit or moving into my frustration zone as far as the weight loss. I know what I did wrong. I spent the week frustrated about this and that and overwhlemed by the million tasks I had put on my plate (excuse the pun). This week isn't any easier when it comes to work things, but I have Dad around to help relieve some of the burden. Although this morning, he was quick to tell me that I'm just like my Mom running myself in a million different directions. I will choose to ignore that like my Mom reference. Despite loving her, I am not ready to be like her. ;-)
I have felt that God has given me these weeks for trials, and I won't say that I failed because I didn't. I still lost some weight (albeit small and probably more water weight than anything). I will say that I succumbed quite a bit to the pressure. But it is another new week and another opportunity to do His Will. We have made efforts to improve the organization around the house, with doing extra toddler proofing to prevent future episodes of Sofia dumping out baking soda or drinking hand sanitizer or toothpaste. I believe that will help us to be able to do what we need to do to be successful and feel better about things. I do ask for your continued prayers and support as we keep going. And again, I invite those who are interested to walk with me. Wednesdays and Fridays at my church 10 am until we are pooped.
Well, as I finish this, Owen just poked Sofia in the eye. She is screaming. He is fighting back and it's time for lunch and Mommy needs some serious quite time!!! Love and Prayers to All.
I have felt that God has given me these weeks for trials, and I won't say that I failed because I didn't. I still lost some weight (albeit small and probably more water weight than anything). I will say that I succumbed quite a bit to the pressure. But it is another new week and another opportunity to do His Will. We have made efforts to improve the organization around the house, with doing extra toddler proofing to prevent future episodes of Sofia dumping out baking soda or drinking hand sanitizer or toothpaste. I believe that will help us to be able to do what we need to do to be successful and feel better about things. I do ask for your continued prayers and support as we keep going. And again, I invite those who are interested to walk with me. Wednesdays and Fridays at my church 10 am until we are pooped.
Well, as I finish this, Owen just poked Sofia in the eye. She is screaming. He is fighting back and it's time for lunch and Mommy needs some serious quite time!!! Love and Prayers to All.
March 3, 2011
No use crying over spilt lotion
My daughter is notoriously known for being able to cause incredible mass destruction in a matter of seconds. This morning is no different than any other with her powers of insanity in high gear. She got up at a decent time and was calmly watching tv in her room when I decided to go make breakfast. Mind you, my kitchen isn't in China or even further than a few rooms away, but seconds is all it takes. Her room was what we considered childproof.
Unfortunately, my sweet monkeypants figured out early how to undo the child lock on anything that we had locked up. She trashed the room yesterday by getting everything out of every toy basket and every door, which is no surprise and happens all the time. That is the reason that hadn't gotten cleaned up yet. Well, this morning to top it all off, she decided that it would be a great idea to get the big bottle of lotion that was 3 shelves up on her shelving unit. 3 shelves up!!! That required some climbing, of course.
Imagine my surprise when I went to her room to find her and most of the room covered in lotion. We are talking the radio, the shelves, the toys. THE WALL. I'm still trying to figure out how she got it. I seriously was gone the length of time it takes to take a bowl out of the cabinet and put cereal in it. That's it. No milk. nothing. Just cereal. 3-4 seconds max. And in that time she climbed and dispersed an entire bottle of lotion everywhere.
While this is very frustrating, and I hope she and I both learned a lesson (not sure what that one is yet) I'm trying to be positive and not think of the time it is taking away from other things I need to get done. I am thinking of the quality time with my monkeypants. Working together (only cause I've locked us in the room together until it is cleaned up). Just to give you an idea of the destruction, I have taken a photo because no mess like this should go without a picture (reminds me of the time Owen dumped out an almost full gallon of paint in the kitchen..... hmmm must run in the family). Off to finish the cleaning! How exciting to get this memorable moment with my daughter. hee hee. ;-)
Unfortunately, my sweet monkeypants figured out early how to undo the child lock on anything that we had locked up. She trashed the room yesterday by getting everything out of every toy basket and every door, which is no surprise and happens all the time. That is the reason that hadn't gotten cleaned up yet. Well, this morning to top it all off, she decided that it would be a great idea to get the big bottle of lotion that was 3 shelves up on her shelving unit. 3 shelves up!!! That required some climbing, of course.
Imagine my surprise when I went to her room to find her and most of the room covered in lotion. We are talking the radio, the shelves, the toys. THE WALL. I'm still trying to figure out how she got it. I seriously was gone the length of time it takes to take a bowl out of the cabinet and put cereal in it. That's it. No milk. nothing. Just cereal. 3-4 seconds max. And in that time she climbed and dispersed an entire bottle of lotion everywhere.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)