Mother and Daughter

Easter and Allergys

2011-04-26T08:21:00.003-05:00

Well, you can probably tell we haven't been writing, but the reason for me is my allergies. They started in March so i started taking a medicine. Sometime between the 4th and the 8th my feet got really itchy and my mom said it was a reaction to the medicine. So, I took another, and it made me drowsy, really drowsy. I would wake up at 10, take a nap at 2, my mom would wake me up at 6 and then at night I would fall a sleep at 9. But thankfully we got me on one that I am not allergic to or that makes me sleep all the time.

Also, this Easter was nice; the church service was great, we went to a friends house, she cooked for us, and gave me and my brother Easter gifts. And after dinner I played with my friend. And before all that, my mom gave me and my brother Easter baskets; my basket had stickers, peeps, hand sanitizer, and a few other things, but my favorite was a duck pillow pet! Beth

So... the blog name got changed

2011-03-30T09:49:00.002-05:00

So, as you can see the blog name got changed... Maybe between the two of us we can actually get something on here sometimes!! Neither one of us write enough to have our own blogs, so we thought we would try this. So, what have we been doing since last month..... church, school, another trip out of town to watch Kyle play basketball and the kids went to Pastor's School with Jim last week. I decided to stay home for a little R&R... it was nice. That's all for now. Debbie

Museum of Science and Industry

2011-02-17T18:29:00.003-06:00

Today Jim, Kyle, Beth, and I went to the Museum of Science and Industry. We watched two IMAX movies: the first one was about the Hubble Space Telescope and the second was a story about flying. The first one was really good.

But the coolest thing we did today was....... dissect a cow eyeball!!!

Each one of us got one and the instructor told us what to do. It was actually very easy to do. Lots of things came back as the instructor was asking us about the eye. Kyle even got the question of how many muscle hold our eye. (6 in case you are wondering) I was glad the kids handled it well..especially Beth...she hates studying the human body so this was BIG. And know what else! It was FREE!!

Let's see

2011-02-07T14:12:00.002-06:00

Well, we have been busy with school and shoveling snow and basketball.

Wow, I am sick of snow... the blizzard was something. Glad that we were all inside for the worst of it, all of us except my husband. He had to work a 24 hour shift that day... not the best.. but they made it through okay. I was most concerned about his drive up here at 7-8 am. You know that lots of snow already down on the ground and still falling isn't a great combo for an hour drive back!

The kids are doing well in school this year. It has been hard to get back on schedule.. but I think that is mostly me having a hard time with it. I don't really know why, but it just seemed so hard to stay focused. Leader with a poor focus=followers with poor focus. We have managed to stay on task today.. YEAH!

We took a trip to Nebraska to see Kyle's basketball tournament. WOW! Did they ever do a great job!!! The actually brought home the 2nd place trophy! Now to make this even more amazing is last year (same tournament) they lost ALL the games. Now, to make this even MORE amazing is that there were only 5 players on the team and well, you have to have 5 players. So, after playing lots of games (4 in about 3 hours) they got to the championship game. The were really close in that game too, but they had replacement players and there were on their third game against our 5th. The better you are the less you have to play.... that's how it works. We just had our 1st home game and it was great too! They won this game against a team they have played several times, but NEVER beat! Close game 46-44! Our team seems to love close matches! Drives me crazy!! lol

So, that's it for now. Have a blessed day/week.

Pressure... Pressure

2011-01-18T12:05:00.003-06:00

Well as anyone can see by the date of the last post it has been a LOOOONG time since the last post. But, a couple friends are sad I am not keeping up. (how's that for an understatement!!!)

So, here it is... a post...

What would you all like to know?

Christmas break was wonderful this year as we took "extra" days in January because I knew we would need that time since our family party wasn't until the 1st! So, we are back to school and doing well except Beth has been sick. She doesn't have much time not being dizzy, so she lies around a lot right now due to a sinus infection.

On another note, I must say that God is very funny. I was reading a book and praying about the contents applying to me and the very thing I was praying about was what someone needed ME to tell THEM about. He does that often.... So, I am wondering if I should just get my act together so this other person will have an easier life or what! lol

Of course, I know that God gives us what we need when we need it, but it just seems sometimes, often....someone needs what I am reading about.... it's just strange...that's all I am saying. Hopefully, I helped this person. God needs to work in that situation, but really we all need to stay focused on God and let him work.... oh so hard!!

So, that's that...have a nice day!

Camp Joy

2009-05-02T21:56:00.006-05:00

Camp Joy was great!

The speakers were wonderful, fellowship was nice, and the place relaxing.

This was really early in the morning....just me and God..this was the BEST.

Our group

Happy Birthday!

2009-05-01T07:10:00.005-05:00

Today is Jim's 42nd Birthday!!

Happy Birthday!

You are the best husband in the world!!

I LOVE YOU!

Field Trips

2009-04-24T18:49:00.005-05:00

The K-5th graders enjoyed a day at the Children's Farm and the 6-12th graders enjoyed a day at the science center. It was a beautiful day and we all enjoyed it. (I was with Beth and Kyle was with Brother Jeremy)

3 pictures later...and telling them I don't care what the pic looks like... and that's when I get the good shot!

The group

Reader's Theater

2009-04-23T22:16:00.004-05:00

Today Beth participated in the Library's "Reader's Theater" plays. They did two skits; the first was "Which Do You Choose" and "Little Red Riding Hood". All the kids did a great job, but of course Beth was the best. :D No, I am not favoring her..... not at all! I would never be like that.

Fun At The Zoo

2009-04-18T07:14:00.005-05:00

Yesterday we went to the zoo because it was such a beautiful day! Here are some pics.

The usual place for our annual picture of the kids.

LIbrary and Bowling

2009-04-16T07:12:00.002-05:00

Yesterday we went to the Woodridge Library and bowling. The kids really like this library because they have a good selection of books. There are so many "Boxcar" books that Beth is just lost in them.

I grew up in Woodridge and this is not the library we had... it is amazing how time changes so much... but as we drive there I point out were I went to jr. high, the orthodontist that I worked for while in high school, and where I got engaged. It really is neat being able to share stories with them. We haven't gone by my old house for a while, but it is really close to these places also. I was blessed with a good life growing up even though I didn't have any relationship with God.

Sometimes it is nice to "visit" the past... it really makes you realize the blessings all around.

A Great Sunday and My Testimony

2009-04-05T21:43:00.003-05:00

Today was a really good day at church. Dr. Buchanan was wonderful with the preaching both this morning and this evening. I am so grateful that we have such a wonderful church to be a part of. I loved Dr. Buchanan's comment that we should be glad we have a man of God that isn't afraid to preach like he should. And I for one can tell you that I am glad... without the truth, I honestly can say I don't know where I would be. I can't tell you why, but I was very nervous at first when I was giving my testimony...very odd since most of the church knows it already!

I know you already heard this too all my friends, but I wrote on here a while ago, I would put my testimony on here... so, since you heard it tonight, you don't need to read it, but just is case someone else happens along I am adding it. We never know what God will use to speak to people and how they will come across it.

My Testimony:
As far as growing up, I had a “normal” home. We had our moments, but I considered my childhood very good considering we were not saved. My family was catholic by name only, but by the time I came along as the 5th child, my Mom was finished trying to explain what she didn’t understand we never went to church. I knew God was real, but He was for religious people and had nothing to do with me or you went if you got married or you died. I remember that our family owned a Bible but no one ever touched it… except one time I was looking through it and my sister came down stairs and saw me… made fun of me… and I closed it and that was that.

I met Jim when I was 20 years old. My relationship with Jim started as a set-up. This however was no ordinary “blind date”. After an interestingly terrible night which I won’t go in to, I wondered, how someone could still be interested in me, after me putting my worst foot forward…

We started dating but as the months went by, I wasn’t really sure how I felt. I knew I liked him, but didn’t think he was the one and only. We broke up, but that didn’t stop him. He causally pursued me, acting if it was okay if nothing came of it. As time went on, I could see that he thought about me and wanted to spend time with me and he treated me well and he reminded me a lot of my father who died about 1 month before we met and I was sure that the problems we were having while we were dating would certainly go away as time went on. After 3 years of dating we got married in 1990. On my wedding date I was positive I wanted to be married to this man. However, this took us to a relationship that couldn’t last because it was based on our feelings and how much he attention I received.

During our first year of marriage we saw each other for about 1/3 of the year spread out. I was going to school and he was working 2-24 hour shifts on the ambulance. We both got busy with our careers and pretty much left each other behind in our own ways. We would disagree, then argue, and make up, argue and then just pretend there weren’t problems… but it was a short term solution to a long term problem. Jim’s job was always top priority and I couldn’t take that… I knew we both needed to work as we had so much debt, but I couldn’t stand the fact that he wanted to be away as much as he did. I started questioning why I had gotten married. Many questions and countless asking for time together only got me frustrated, which led me to leave our marriage after 4 years.

Shortly after I left I realized I was pregnant. Jim promised things would be different and I wanted to believe him, so I went back. Since nothing really changed, except adding more stress, our lives were very much in the same pattern.

As time went on, Jim had his life and I had mine. As you have heard from his own testimony he was very busy with work and going to the race track. He wanted his family, but on his terms. I was working a full time job, taking care of Kyle, paying the bills, doing the shopping, cleaning the house and started living a different life in my head, I escaped by dreaming about “what ifs”, started going out more, and shopped.

Time marched on and we continued our roller coaster ride marriage and Beth came along in 1998 on one of the up swings. But we needed money, so I worked on weekends a couple days a month. Again we continued our roller coaster ride. As things continued to go up and down, the ups were shorter and the downs were longer. Now with Jim working Monday thru Friday and me working at least two weekends a month, there was very little time to spend together. By this point I liked it better when we were apart so I planned my weekends to fit my plans; I would work on Saturday then drive to my friends house, we would go out to the bar, crash at her house, and I would show up sometime on Sunday about noon. I knew this really bothered Jim and I got some satisfaction out of the fact that he was getting a taste of what I had put up with for so long. Our lives were miserable; we only talked to get information. As far as being a mother, I was horrible. I loved them in my own way, but I really wanted them not to be so consuming. They were not fitting in with the plans that I had. I didn’t want to be stuck in the house taking care of them. Kyle was in school but Beth wasn’t able to as she was only 3 ½. I was really waiting for the time I could afford daycare or she got into school. I was just getting by until I could make some changes that would please me.

One day during all this, sometime in 2001, Pastor Bill Schutt knocked on our door. We talked for about 30 minutes, but I wasn’t ready to attend the church. I put the tract in a drawer. I tried to throw it away 3 or 4 times, but I just couldn’t bring myself to do it. I would toss it in the garage can, pull it out, and put it in the drawer again.

Anyway, our good time, bad time, roller coaster of a marriage hit the final straw when after one more of Jim’s week long trips, he came home while I was on the phone with a friend and I didn’t acknowledge him in any way except a wave. That led to Jim moving out in mid March 2002. Jim’s plan for our separation was different then mine, he wanted to take a break, and work things out, and start dating me again. I can honestly say I really hated that man and I never thought about our separation as a time to fix anything. I wanted freedom and dating someone I hate was not on my list. I was thinking this was my moment! This was exactly what I wanted! I was the happiest girl on the planet and was ready for my new life! The kids would go to his place and I would have time for me and I didn’t have to pretend that I was a happily married woman anymore.

But, to my shock, things started to change quickly. A friend that we have known for many years called and started talking to me about how he started going to church and he goes all the time… I was certain he had lost him mind but I listened to him. At the same time, although I didn’t know it, God was working on Jim and I. Jim wanted to be my knight in shining armor, so God made sure that he had a several opportunities to do so, one of them being my car broke down just after getting off the expressway.

Jim also wanted us to do something as a family together and I reluctantly agreed, the only date I had was Sunday April 28 (unless he wanted to go sometime in June which he didn‘t.) We decided to a museum in downtown Chicago and as we were driving we talked about all the traffic and stated that there shouldn’t be this much traffic because those people should be in church. We decided that we would be back early enough for the night service at that church.

We actually kept our word (we almost didn’t) and came to the church that night and it was strange! The Pastor I expected wasn’t there, there were 8 ladies all in the same dress, everyone talked to us, and Pastor Dave came right down the aisle, more like RAN down the aisle to meet us, then someone ran to go get Julie and she greeted us. We were completely taken away by this as we had been to a couple of Catholic churches and nothing like that had ever happened before. We sat in the back and we were mesmerized! Pastor preached on the man’s role in the family and knew he was talking about us…but how he knew, we didn’t know.

I didn’t come forward that night, I really wanted to, but I didn’t know what those people were going do, so I stayed put. I did raise my hand when Pastor asked if he could pray… I knew I needed that. I knew something was different that night and I may have gotten saved; I was too ignorant to know. As we drove home, we talked about the service and both of us agreed that Grace Baptist was going to be our church. The following Thursday Pastor called and asked if “someone” from the church could stop by with a pie, after I said yes, I called Jim and told him he better be here since we were not living together.

The “someone” was Pastor and Julie, which threw us for a loop, because as Jim put it so well, “it was them!” Never in my entire life did I think the Pastor was coming over. I don’t really know how long they were there, but after a while they each presented the gospel and we both got saved on May 2, 2002 when I was just shy of 35 years old.

Everything was wonderful. Jim came over every day and the neighbors thought we were crazy… the lady that was so happy to get rid of her husband was now on cloud nine. We knew that EVERYONE was going to think we were out of our minds but Jim moved back in the house by the end of May, just about 8 weeks after leaving.

As anyone will tell you, you don’t get to stay on cloud nine for the rest of your life, but with all the preaching, teaching, and love we have receive from Pastor and Julie and most importantly God being ruler of our lives, we have been able to handle many difficult situations and have been blessed beyond measure.

Today I can tell you my world has been turned upside down in the best way. God has changed my heart so much. After I got saved, God gave me the desire to quit my job, start treating my husband like a man (after reading, Me? Obey Him?), start loving my kids the right way, stop spending like a crazy lady trying to fill up a bottomless pit, change the way I dressed, stop drink and swearing, stop hanging around and calling my old so-called friends, and many other things.

I trusted God and He is doing the rest.

If someone is reading this that has no idea what I am talking about when I say I was "saved", please look at the bottom of this blog and go to the website.

An Awesome Conference

2009-04-04T20:48:00.006-05:00

Today was wonderful! I really enjoyed the Ladies Conference. The speakers were terrific, the fellowship great, and food was yummy. This year Beth was able to go for the first time and she loved it. I am sure she missed a lot of information, but she took at least 5 pages of notes!

Thank you again Julie for another fabulous conference. I really appreciate all the work you do to make this day special. You are a wonderful lady and we are so fortunate to have you!!!

My camera didn't take very good pictures, but here they are.... in no particular order.

A Fun Day

2009-04-03T22:38:00.002-05:00

Today Kyle got to go on a youth trip to Michigan. Beth and I needed to go shopping for some new shoes for her. But today turned into a day of shopping. We spent about 4 hours at 7 different stores and got a couple of great buys. I had a 15% off coupon for Kohl's and another for Lane Bryant for spend 50.00 save 25.00 (can't beat that!) Beth and I really enjoyed spending our day together. We loved the shopping, enjoyed laughing together, had lunch and we even spoiled ourselves by stopping in Fannie May Candies for a couple of pieces of candy. Oh, and when we got to the shopping center, I pulled in by a meter and Beth just had the greatest time putting in the money and watching the time go up (we actually stayed in this outdoor mall longer than planned just to "get our moneys worth" lol). The funny thing was, she really has only seen one meter in her life before this one and really didn't have any clue about them at all.... it was really cute!! I would have to say, although this wasn't a planned day...at least not THAT long of shopping...I enjoyed this day very much. As we were driving home, I was trying to think of something that Kyle and I could do for an afternoon sometime... days with the kids are going to be gone so fast. It is such a blessing to be able to spend time with them.

A Nice But Atypical Day

2009-03-25T22:38:00.002-05:00

Ever have one of those day when it is planned for one way and happens very different? Well, today was one of those.

I got up late, so did Jim. That sent us moving in a hurry... my late doesn't have the same impact as his. Anyway, not 10 minutes after he left he called using a different phone and said he had forgotten his phone and asked me if I would bring it to him. I would REALLY love to say that I was just happy to do my "wifely" duty and didn't miss a beat, but my first thought was... that is gonna mess me up! I already had bowling and an appointment...how was this going to work.

I had already missed my usual time with God and now I needed to move my day around. As my thoughts were swimming about how I was going to handle my day, I stopped.

I realize that the entire day can be completely "messed up" and WITH God it would be just fine, WITHOUT God, I knew it would be perfectly "messed up". So, I read my Bible. I am reading Titus this week (over and over) and I kept thinking/hearing...whatever, one chapter is enough. After one I started two and heard, you can't do this, you don't have time for this. So, I did what I should I read chapter 3.

After that I prayed, albeit shorter than I wanted, but I just asked God to make it work as I did what I should do and to work out how we could get to Jim almost an hour drive away, get school accomplished and get to bowling on time. (Usually after bowling we arrive home at 3:30 and it is a horrible time to get back to school!)

So, a brilliant thought was placed in my head by God. I would take all the kids work with us and stop at the library in the town we were going to be bowling at and then we wouldn't have extra drive time. I never want to feel like I "squeeze school in".

The day was absolutely wonderful. We were in the car about 8:30, drove to Wheaton and were in Woodridge at the library about 10:00! The kids got most of their work done...without any complaints, we stopped for lunch, and went bowling which only took an HOUR because the team we were paired with didn't show up!

It sure is amazing how we can think a day to have such a poor outlook before we even start! I sure am glad God takes our cares and worries away... even if it is something like wondering how I am going to complete a day that is nothing like "I planned it".

Back To Normal Life

2009-03-24T21:37:00.003-05:00

Yesterday and today were spent doing what we usually do. Last night we had our family night and we watched "Facing The Giants" which we all enjoyed very much. Today we continued our school work and chores. I really do enjoy being on a regular routine. I have been getting up at 5:00 since last Wednesday to have my prayer time (except last night I forgot to set my alarm clock, so I didn't get up until 5:45) and I am really enjoying the time with God. Life is so much better with Him.

Something Silly

2009-03-22T14:17:00.002-05:00

Today Kyle called me and I told him to wait while I was doing something. About 30 seconds later he called again... I am sure any mom can relate.

Anyway, I went to him and he asked me a question, which doesn't really matter, but it wasn't really urgent to say the least.

As I talked to him I said, "I should just be split into 4 parts": one for each, Daddy, Kyle, Beth, and I get to have myself so I get the last forth.

Kyle very plainly said, "Yea, I get the head."

Now there is something to think about! LOL

I'm Back

2009-03-21T20:05:00.003-05:00

Hi everyone!

Sorry again for my absence. I had a busy two weeks.

Last week I got my mask for my machine changed, had my last two therapy appointments, saw a play, took the kids to chapel, and took the kids to our home school bowling league. I am sure I blinked and the week was gone.

This week we were enjoying Pastor's School! It was the best year yet as far as I am concerned. I really love being around teaching, preaching, and God's people so much. Life would be so much easier if that happened all the time... but of course it is not reality.

There were so many great speakers, that I could not begin to tell you about all of what we were taught. I plan on going over my notes to really let it all "sink in". I picked the afternoon sessions on prayer and was greatly encourage by this time. We had a two hour session each day and one hour was spent in small groups praying for anything that was on our hearts. It was such a blessing to see so many ladies pray. I looked forward to this time each day, which is odd for me, because I don't like to be with new people....I am shy. Once I get to know people I am good, but I don't like to be the one to start talking. I met a sweet elderly lady on Tuesday afternoon and we were able to be in our prayer groups two times together. We talked as much as we could and exchanged our personal information. It was an answer to prayer that I would have someone to talk to. I asked God to let me be by someone that I could be a blessing to, rather than someone that could bless me. I can't speak for my new friend, but I know that I was incredibly blessed! On the second day in our groups, a Pastor's wife came up to me and she was the sweetest lady. So, God really blessed my afternoons greatly.

Today, we all went soul winning. Jim had to work after that and I did some shopping, cleaning, finished my Sunday School lesson for tomorrow, and took a bike ride. I am going to try to get out with the kids a few times a week now that the weather is getting better.

I am so looking forward to church tomorrow. I certainly do love my church. Have a great night.

When I Was A Kid

2009-03-10T06:28:00.002-05:00

When I was a kid, if my Mom couldn't come to see what I wanted to show her... I just had to wait. Beth on the other hand has no problem with this.

Yesterday she was straighten her room and she wanted me to see what she did. I was working on something and told her I couldn't see it right then but in a few minutes I would go to her room. She said okay and I thought that was that.

About two minutes later she came back with a smile on her face and my camera in her hand. She said, "if you can't come to my room, I will bring it to you"!

Ladies Meeting

2009-03-07T07:29:00.006-06:00

www.clipartheaven.com

Last nights meeting was really good! I learned a lot of information about the "nasty little bugs/germs" lurking around....they are gross. I don't know if I can ever not think about dust mite poop ever again... those of you there know exactly what I am talking about... GROSS! I really appreciate Julie taking the time to have special meetings like this. They are always fun and informative.. fortunately they are NOT usually gross. lol

Beautiful Day

2009-03-06T13:14:00.005-06:00

www.free-clipart-pictures.net

The kids knew that today was forecasted to be beautiful, so they were REALLY motivated to get school started and finished! We started school at 7am and finished by 12:30. I am a morning person, so I love days like this. If we could start every day by 7, it would be a beautiful thing. Whether that happens or not, today was certainly nice!

Reader's Theater

2009-03-05T23:04:00.006-06:00

Beth joined the Reader's Theater again this month and they performed "A League of Their Own". Beth really enjoys this and she didn't have anyone she knew there (except of course Ms. Jane the librarian), so I think it is really good for her. She may not be so scared to speak in public if this keeps up.

Is it wrong to look forward to going to bed tonight so early in the day???

2009-02-24T11:39:00.003-06:00

I just got home from my visit for my CPAP machine. It is a simple machine and the mask is tiny for my little nose.

So, I am asking myself... is it wrong to look forward to going to bed tonight so early in the day??? I keep laughing at myself because I am actually excited about having this machine. I know that sounds really strange, but it has been a long time since I have slept well and I am really looking forward to getting a "good night's sleep" on a regular basis. It is so strange not ever realizing that you aren't getting a good rest.

Well, I have schooling to complete... so off I go. Have a great day.

Doctor and Date

2009-02-19T22:05:00.005-06:00

I got my report from the sleep study and I sleep very well with the machine. I haven't talked to the doctor yet, so I don't know how/when I will get the machine.

I also went to the ortho doctor and he was very pleased with my progress. I literally saw him for 1 minute. He signed the referral for therapy to continue, but I am only going to go 2 times a week. I really love NOT having to go out of my house so often!

And lastly, Jim and I had our date night. I do so enjoy being with him. And honestly I can say that I am enjoying it more and more as time goes on. God is so wonderful to bless me with a husband that wants to be with me and show me that he loves me!

Missionary Circle

2009-02-17T22:09:00.002-06:00

Tonight was the first night for the new Missionary Circles. It was a nice time of fellowship and then we talked about and prayed for the missionary families in our assigned areas. It is nice to see current photos of the families and hear some of the news they were able to share. One of the families wrote that 774 people were saved in Oct. and Nov. That is so incredible!! This meeting was hosted by one of the ladies in our church and it was such a blessing. Beth surrendered to be a Pastor's wife, so missions is something that could be in her future... At the very least she will have to have a servants heart and pray for people!

Better Late (To Post) Then Never

2009-02-15T05:47:00.005-06:00

I am just getting to this...but as I said, better late then never! On Thursday we got a surprise! Jim sent us BOTH flowers!

As you can tell the plastic is still on, it is really her smile that I wanted to capture! This face is nothing compared to the look she had when she had to take the second bouquet of flowers from the delivery man and then saw HER name on the card! It was PRICELESS!! Not at all excited! She left the sweetest thank you message on Jim's voice mail.

One for me and one for her. Isn't he just the sweetest man!

Banquet

2009-02-13T23:50:00.002-06:00

The Valentine banquet was really great. Every part was fun, so I couldn't say what was best. I look forward to this every year...I can hardly believe this was our 7th one!! Thank you to everyone that worked so hard to make this event happen; it truly is a blessing.

A1C

2009-02-12T21:19:00.003-06:00

I went to my doctor today and my A1C reading was 6.1 which is down from 6.5 since November. That is a good thing.

Preaching to Myself

2009-02-10T08:06:00.004-06:00

Today as I was having my devotion I read Matthew 16. As I read it I realized it went through the first four verses with one topic and moved on. I stopped and re-read verses 1-4

Mt 16:1 The Pharisees also with the Sadducees came, and tempting desired him that he would shew them a sign from heaven.
2 He answered and said unto them, When it is evening, ye say, It will be fair weather: for the sky is red.
3 And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowring. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times?
4 A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas. And he left them, and departed.

I stopped and read it again and thought, why did God put just these four verses in and move on? They seemed so short and insignificant, but I know that God doesn't do that! So, I asked God and read it again.

It is then that God brought this to my mind. The Pharisees and Sadducees wanted a sign even though they had seen many things before. I did a search and found it interesting that two times they are mentioned in Matthew before this the Bible states, "when the Pharisees saw it"... naturally I wanted to know what they saw. I really wasn't surprised (because Pastor and Julie teach so much) that they only saw the two things they thought were wrong. I started to think about how many miracles or as they requested, "sign from heaven" they probably saw!

It was then I realized how often God is showing me so many things, but it is not what I was looking for.... or just not the way that I wanted it. And not only did I see the wrong, but was completely blind to the miracles! How sinful to think I know so much by what I see and completely miss what God is showing.

Anyway, that is my truth for the day. Mostly it was for me, I really am not sure why I was compelled to share it.

You know its been way too cold lately when...

2009-02-03T15:06:00.003-06:00

your child, after grabbing the mail, says..."it's really nice outside" and it is 19 degrees not counting the wind chill which brings it to a whole 1!!!

Lazy Saturday

2009-01-31T21:13:00.002-06:00

Today we all went door knocking, Jim went to do his 24hr shift, Kyle went to brush burning with Bro. John and Beth and I watched Sense & Sensibility. Not much happened which I really enjoyed. I fell asleep on the couch and now I am going to go to bed.

Busy Day

2009-01-30T21:38:00.003-06:00

I got home from my sleep study at 6am. I really felt like I got a good night of sleep! I will have to wait until the doctor gets the results to know when I will get a CPAP machine...at least from what I can tell that is the plan. I looked at my result from the first test and it mentions lots of numbers, but I guess on average I stop breathing 18 times per hour...I stop more when in REM sleep. So, I am just waiting right now.

Here was my day:
6am got home/devotion
7:30 started school
10:30 therapy for my shoulder
11:45 watched Hunter, Carter, and Tanner (only until 2)
4pm did weekly shopping
6:30 left for a Pampered Chef party

The day went by really fast! I prefer days that are much slower....

Accountability

2009-01-29T08:33:00.006-06:00

Accountability... good and bad.

www.clipartheaven.com

A blogging buddy of mine (Tracy) is trying to lose weight and ever week she updates. She has inspired me to be accountable to do something about my weight. I have thought about my weight a lot, but never willing to really try. With my diagnosis of pre-diabetes it is time to start really getting serious. I have done better since I found that out that bit of news and as of today, I believe I have lost 4 pounds (I didn't write it down before). So, I know where my weight it as of today and every week, whether good or bad, I am going to post where I am at. My hope is that telling you every week what I am doing will be enough to keep me on track... I really don't want to tell you how bad I am!!

O.T.

2009-01-28T21:59:00.002-06:00

Well, I started my occupational therapy (O.T.) today. My therapist did the eval, gave me a treatment of electrical stim and a cold pack, taped my shoulder, and gave me a couple exercises. I have all my appointment scheduled until I see the doctor again and only one will interfere with school, but we can do some before and after my appointment.

Scheduling Day

2009-01-27T16:47:00.005-06:00

Wow! You won't believe this... well, of course God can do anything, but this is fast!

The missing referral was received by the therapy department and they have an opening tomorrow! And my appointment is in the afternoon, so school won't be interrupted...always a blessing!

Another thing, I received a call from the sleep center saying they needed to schedule my next study...hmmm think I have a problem??? When I saw the doctor on the 15th he said we would talk about the study next time, but they just sent over the referral. I truly love my doctor's office. This office is so good and getting things done, and he is very thorough with test and such. Oh, this appointment is set for THIS Thursday....Awesome!

I am getting a little tired of this......

THANK YOU to all that prayed for me. This is a great blessing to me.

100

2009-01-27T09:24:00.006-06:00

phillipmartin.info

Today we celebrated 100 days of school!!!

Here a the special things we did today:

creative writing with this: "I wish I had a 100____ because...".

art: they drew a picture incorporating 100 into it

a bean bag toss trying to get to 100 points (good for addding)

I read a book to them

watched a Moody DVD about faith

word search (I just realized how valuable this could be for spelling...little slow!)

answered: "what do know now that I didn't know 100 days ago

I also gave them a crossword puzzle book and 100 pennies and...to top it off we had a chocolate cake with a big 100 on top.

This was a very atypical day, but we enjoyed it.

Just Stuff

2009-01-26T21:13:00.002-06:00

Well, my shoulder is feeling a little better from the shot no doubt. I am able to move it much better, but I still can't take much weight/resistance with it. My referral seems to be lost someplace, so I don't have an appointment for therapy, but I am sure it will happen soon.

Tonight was "Family Night' and we spent our night enjoying chicken from Jewel. (Monday is cheap chicken night which is great) We played Chinese checkers, Rummikub, and Mille Bornes...let me think. Kyle won Chinese checkers, Jim and I each one a round of Rummikub, and I won Mille Bornes.

It is such a blessing to have a family that stops and plays together. Actually, while I am typing this Jim and Kyle are having a Nerf war. It puts a smile on my face when these two act crazy like that. :D

Doctor

2009-01-22T21:23:00.004-06:00

Today I went to see the ortho doctor. He said I have bursitis in my right shoulder. He gave me a shot and I will be going to therapy as soon as they are able to get me in. I talked with the lady that makes the appointments and the soonest they have an opening in the 4th! So, if you read this I would greatly appreciate your prayers for a date much sooner. I will see the doctor again in 4 weeks, so it would really be nice to have some treatments done, not to mention that my arm hurts. Thanks much.

Sledding and a Home School Meeting

2009-01-19T21:19:00.006-06:00

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Today we went sledding at Delwood Park with Ms. Cheryl, Mr. John, Page, and Georgia! It was really cold up on that hill, but the kids had a great time. After they went down a few times we walked to where the creek is and something John called "The Hill of Death"and walked around and cracked ice for a while. It was really neat to see how thin the ice was, but how it would really stand up to people jumping on it! As we were walking and I was cracking ice I would let out this little scream... I just couldn't help it. It reminds me of old movies when the mother (aka the non-nature person) is out with the experienced group and is always the one "screaming" or saying we went too far. You know the worrier! I wasn't that bad really... at least I don't think I was! The O's are the type of people I wish I was more like in respect to being "the outdoor type". I like being outside in very limited quantities and usually in more sedentary activities. Anyway, we spent about and hour and a half out there and I was really surprised actually, I had a great time out there!!

Tonight was our bi-monthly home school meeting and it was WONDERFUL. Pastor's teaching tonight really hit home. It really made me think about some of the things we do. You know how you do something and then start getting away from it for no apparent reason...well, I looked the "ground I was sowing" and realized where we need to fix something. I am sure as I ponder this lesson God will bring other things to my mind!

Thank you Pastor and Julie for all your hard work and taking the time to invest in us. You are such a blessing.

Science

2009-01-16T22:15:00.005-06:00

Tonight while Kyle was on the youth activity, Beth and I worked on her science "project". I purchased a book called "The Glad Scientist" so we can work on reviewing the same type of material (the human body)we had been working on over the past semester. These are the pictures of her making a cell. After we were finished we looked online for an actual cell during mitosis and it was very neat. I have an interest in all this from being in the medical field years ago and my hope is that she won't be quiet as "freaked out" as she has been. Being my second time around with this, it is awesome to see it from a godly perspective! The human body is so awesome.

Sometimes It Works, Sometimes It Doesn't

2009-01-14T09:31:00.003-06:00

Hi all. I am having computer problems, so if i drop off the blog for awhile you will know that I am either having computer issues or that I am being a slacker again... I will know which, but it may be hard for you to tell. Last night I didn't have a mouse, so I couldn't open anything... I was going to tell you something that Beth said yesterday, but today it escapes me!

We enjoyed our family night on Monday by playing 3 different games and having chicken from Jewel. Monday nights are great for Jewel chicken because it is so reasonable. After that the kids and I watched a Moody DVD called, " The Ultimate Adventure". God sure is amazing with all He provides!!

Yesterday we stayed inside, except the kids ran out to the garage to get an icicle. Kyle came back with one that was guessing 18 inches long! They gave it to the dog and I wish I would have taken pictures. That dog is still crazy.

I have to get back to schooling and then out for shoveling. Have a great day!!

2009-01-11T06:00:00.003-06:00

Well, for the past almost two weeks life has been on super speed. Our last week of our Christmas break went faster than I imagined it would!

This is some of what we/I have done this week:
-had our Round-Up Sunday. The kids made chili (with a little help from me) and actually won third place! It is my Mom's recipe and I think it is wonderful.
-started our bookwork again and have finished our first semester! It is hard to believe that our school year is half over.
-Went to the eye doctor and went back to pick up my new glasses
-shoveled snow
-got the dog's nails clipped (and purchased her food) There is a wonderful lady in town that only charges 5.00 to clip Boston's nails in case you local people are interested.
-took down the Christmas tree and decorations
-had "family night" on Tuesday
-had date night on Friday

Brother Jeremy preached/taught on Wednesday night and it was really good!! I do enjoy hearing him. I am amazed at such a young man having his life so "together" to serve God so fervently.

Today Dr. Gray is coming to our church and I am so looking forward to that!

I will try to be better about my posts... I am sure there is something I could tell you everyday! ;)

Shopping With The Girls

2008-12-30T16:21:00.004-06:00

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Today Ms. Cheryl and I took our Sunday School class to the mall. We had nine girls and it was lots of fun. I got two pairs of shoes, Yankee candles, Bath and Body Works lotion, and hair (but don't tell everyone!)

Home School Christmas Party

2008-12-29T20:16:00.010-06:00

Today was the Home School Christmas Party. It was TONS of fun!! Julie of course hosted this wonderful event and it was a blast. I could tell the kids were having a good time by all the smiles and laughing. The afternoon went by really fast too! Here are some pics of the fun.

Megan and Mae

Three teams played this fun game of trying to get as many chocolate chips into the bowl using a spoon.

Building the tallest tower with toothpicks and marshmallows, Josh won.

Marshmallow shooter.... they had to aim for a hole in a picture. Kyle and Josh won.

The girls sit nicely for a photo.

more shooting...

the girls turn...

This was a great game!! I thought I had a picture of the girls, but as you can see I didn't post it... Anyway, they put Vaseline on their nose and pick up the cotton balls and try to shake it off their nose and into the bowl. Jacob won this game.

The White Elephant exchange! This was so funny. Here is everyone trying to get the best prize! It sounded like a box of Legos, so naturally everyone wanted it... I guess the White Elephant wasn't understood by them as Legos are NEVER a white elephant. That box changed hand every time and several times during each call out. Would you like to know what was in this??? It was great. Multiplication tiles! Needless to say the winner of the box was a little surprised.

Luke was so funny. I don't know what he was expecting but I guess Candy Land wasn't it!!

2008-12-28T21:24:00.006-06:00

Yesterday we went to my sister's house for our family Christmas party. We enjoyed a very nice time with lots of food, gifts, and sharing stories. My sister Nancy and her husband Mike host this event each year and ALWAYS make it a very special day. I got some great stuff too!

All 11 of them..hard to get them all looking at the camera.

Mom and Jim(my step-father)

Every year my brother in law dresses up as Santa;
there are only 3 left that believe in Santa.

Do you think they are tired?

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T21:36:00.002-06:00

We wish you all a wonderful Christmas.

The Annual Christmas Picture

2008-12-24T21:18:00.004-06:00

Picture perfect... but it took lots of photos....do you notice something wrong with these two!

Annual Christmas Play

2008-12-21T21:39:00.003-06:00

Tonight was the annual Christmas play at church and it was really great. The kids/teens did a wonderful job with all there lines and all the songs were wonderful. The set was absolutely amazing!! I had a great team working the fellowship afterwards and REALLY appreciate all the work that they continuously do.

How should a King come?

2008-12-20T17:28:00.005-06:00

I recently heard this song and I just love it! I tried to find the song to listen to online to link it, but I didn't find it. (perhaps if I put more time into it... well, you know). Anyway I think this song is beautiful in the way it describes what we think a royal entrance is, but God saw fit to sent Jesus in a completely different way. In case you are interested, I have this song on a CD called "The Spirit of Christmas".

How should a King come.
Even a child knows the answer of course,
In a coach of gold with a pure white horse.
In the beautiful city in the prime of the day,
And the trumpets should cry and the crowds make way.
And the flags fly high in the morning sun,
And the people all cheer for the sovereign one.
And everyone knows that's the way that it's done.
That's the way that a King should come.

How should a King come.
Even a commoner understands,
He should come for His treasures, And His houses and lands.
He should dine upon summer strawberries and milk,
And sleep upon bedclothes of satin and silk.
And high on a hill His castle should glow,
With the lights of the city like jewels below.
And everyone knows that's the way that it's done,
That's the way that a King should come.

How should a King come.
On a star filled night into Bethlehem,
Rode a weary woman and a worried man.
And the only sound in the cobblestone street,
Was the shuffle and the ring of their donkey's feet.
And a King lay hid in a virgin's womb,
And there were no crowds to see Him come.
At last in a barn in a manger of hay,
He came and God incarnate lay.

And the angels cried "glory glory to God".
Earth was silent so heaven rang, "Glory glory to God."
Men were dumb so the angels sang, "Glory glory to God,
Peace on earth good will to men, Glory glory to God". Christ is born in Bethlehem
Glory to God, Glory in the highest
Glory to God, Glory in the highestGlory to God

Okay... Now I Am Sure Time Is Going Faster!

2008-12-17T23:43:00.004-06:00

I can't believe how fast time it going! I have been very busy trying to get gifts purchased, the tree decorated, homeschooling, and medical visits (I have 3 this week!) Maybe that is why I am getting so little done!

As I talked to my doctor today he laughed and said there isn't anything going on around the holidays, lets have some tests done. So, I have my dietitian appointment tomorrow (My blood sugars have been within good range for the last month) and since I am there I will have some blood drawn and another test. I saw my gynecologist yesterday and the good news is I don't have to go back for a year, but I still have to take the medicine every month. Oh, and I will be going for a sleep study as soon as the place calls and makes an appointment for me.

Nothing else to do these days... ;0 Boy I sure am glad I don't feel as bad as all this testing makes it sound! Well, I only have a few more minutes before I am not allowed anything else to drink, so I am going to down a big glass of water. Have a great night.

Well, He Did It Again!!

2008-12-10T17:15:00.003-06:00

What do I do to deserve such a wonderful husband. I really do have a great husband and he showed me again today that we was thinking of me! God is so wonderful to bless our marriage and the past week has been extremely nice... this was as they say, "the icing on the cake"! One of these days I am going to post our testimony so many can see how awesome our God is.

Oh! What Fun It Is To Have A Christmas Coffee

2008-12-06T08:33:00.016-06:00

The BEST Pastor's wife in the world....

sorry everyone else...well, actually I am not

that sorry... I am that selfish!

The "famous" coffee lady
Eating? Laughing? Bad combo!
And she knew the pic would make the blog.

FUNNY GIRLS

This was the cutest little singing group.

Wonderful Ms. Donna is so funny.

I love her stories.

Beth won this basket!!!

Isn't it beautiful... and loaded!!

A cute friend with a silly hat.

It was so wonderful my sister in law came!!

Yes, she had fun.

Crazy ladies making trades.

This stocking moved A LOT.

So many people wanted it.

This wonderful young lady ended up with it...

with a little help from her friends ;

2008-12-04T16:54:00.002-06:00

So, yet again another week has passed and I didn't write.

Well, on Friday we started our decorating. Jim worked outside on the lights for the front and I started putting things around the house. Usually I would work on the tree, but it is a pre-lit one and it is really heavy, so I just waited for Jim. The tree still isn't done because we were messin' with the lights... the pre-lit one aren't lighting. So, the new plan is we will have to put some lights on it ourselves. I honestly haven't taken the time to go get the lights and put them on, so our tree is still just waiting.

On Saturday the kids and I went soul winning (Jim was working his 24 hour shift) and then went to my Uncle Jack's 70th surprise birthday party. It was a very nice time. Oh, we were at Maggiano's.

Sunday was a typical Sunday with the exception of Birthday and Anniversary. I have a great group of people working on this team!! Thanks everyone!!

Monday through today we have been busy with our school schedule, chores, and just regular stuff. Which leads me to now, Jim just walked in and we will be having our family night. So, have a good one.

2008-11-27T10:55:00.002-06:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

www.clipartheaven.com

Psalm 100:4

Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his

courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name

Earth Worm Dissection

2008-11-25T21:07:00.003-06:00

Today Kyle dissected an earthworm! He cut and pinned it all by himself. We went online to see a picture of the worm dissected, so we knew what we were looking at. Enjoy some pics!!!

One minute we are raking and the next we are playing with snowballs!

2008-11-17T21:19:00.008-06:00

The kids and I basically finished raking the backyard (and let me tell you with 4 trees of our own and a few trees from the neighbors that is A LOT of leaves!) We were out there for about 2 hours and we were dropping our last load of leaves when it started to snow. I didn't think much about it, but within a few minutes it had left a dusting... so what would any kid do... they ran to make snowballs!!

How Has Another Week Passed!

2008-11-16T22:32:00.002-06:00

Here is the week in review:

All week we continued with school as usual. We have been following our schedule and it has been really peaceful. I get up at 6am and have my devotion; the kids are now setting their alarms and getting up at 7 so we can start an exercise video at 7:15 on the dot. Showers and breakfast are next with our bookwork starting at 9:00. I never was a "schedule" person, until I realized how much better the day goes with doing the same thing repetitively (now I dislike NOT having one!)

The kids really enjoyed chapel and I did some reading. It is so wonderful to her the kids talk about what they did.

Saturday I was able to have the Hospitality Team Luncheon at Aurelio's. I really have a great group of people and Pastor is so generous to allow us this time of fellowship. After that we had a party to go to at my sister's house... so I got to talk with my sister and the kids were able to play with their cousins.

Today flew by as Sunday's do, but it is always great to be in church.

Home School Meeting

2008-11-10T22:25:00.003-06:00

The home school meeting was great as usual. Laura gave a wonderful testimony and Pastor's lesson on diligence was awesome. It is SO great to have Pastor and Julie to help us along the way with home school. I am not sure how things changed around here, but we weren't being diligent with our time... today we started back again and IT WAS WONDERFUL!

After the meeting Jim and I went to George's for dessert and a hot drink. It was really nice having a little date.

A Rainbow!

2008-11-06T18:03:00.002-06:00

This afternoon as the kids and I left a store we saw a rainbow! I have always loved rainbows, even before I knew God, but I REALLY love them now.

Every time I see a rainbow I remember Genesis 9:15-16 15 And I will remember my covenant, which is between me and you and every living creature of all flesh; and the waters shall no more become a flood to destroy all flesh. And the bow shall be in the cloud; and I will look upon it, that I may remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is upon the earth.

When I see rainbows I think about God's faithfulness. As I am writing this post it dawned on me that as I am looking at the beautiful rainbow, so is He.

AND today's rainbow, to me, was extra special and that is for one reason. Today was the first time I really remember seeing the entire rainbow! I always remember seeing the "end" or "ends", but today we saw the entire bow connected together...and it was awesome.

A "Love" Story

2008-11-05T10:04:00.005-06:00

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On Monday Beth asked me if I loved her more than anyone else, with a disclaimer that obviously God would be first and Daddy second and therefore should not be included in my answer.

I have two kids, what should I have said… So I told her that I couldn’t answer that.

She pretended to cry and said, “You don’t love me” and then giggled.

I told her that I loved her 10 years worth, to which her reply was, “That’s all I get!”

I said that is as long has she has been here, so it sounded reasonable.

And then Jim jokingly said, “That is how much she loves me too.” I thought that was a terrible thing!

Beth said, “That’s all he gets; he should get 18 years worth…then she added, “Well, maybe only 16 because you didn’t like him for a while”.

Now by this point I figure I need to get the focus off of my lack of love!!

So, I asked, “how do you know that I love Daddy now?”

Beth, “I don’t know you just do.”

Me, “Because I kiss him?”

Beth, “Yucky!” (Kissing is still gross at her age and the picture is really grossing her out!)

Me, “Well, then how do you know; what shows you I love him?”

Beth, “You get up at 5am and make his lunch and coffee.”

Me, “Yes, I do that. But why doesn’t it show you that I love Daddy when I kiss him?”

And here is the entire point of this post. I couldn’t believe her answer was so wise for someone so young.

Beth, “Just because people kiss doesn’t mean they love each other; anyone can do that. It’s the stuff you do for him.”

Happy Birthday!

2008-11-03T10:35:00.002-06:00

Happy 10th Birthday Beth!!!! We love you!

The SLACKER is Back

2008-11-02T20:39:00.025-06:00

Hi everyone (finally!)

Well, I can tell you I have been having a great time since my last post! After telling you how spectacular Spectacular was, I was busy getting ready for our family vacation. It was a blur on Saturday as I was getting everything packed and doing last minute things... like all the laundry because I was gone for the 3 days before!!

We left for Wisconsin right after morning service on the 19th. We stopped in a little church in the evening and then headed over to House On The Rock Inn. We have been to this part of Wisconsin before and just love how peaceful it is and beautiful.

So, here is a run down of what we did!

Sunday: as above but went out for dinner and went swimming after we checked in. This is a picture of the "kiddie pool".

Monday: We went to the House On The Rock. This place is a collection of MANY things that someone want to get. I took us about 6 hours to get through it.

Tuesday: Cave of the Mounds cave tour and "panning for fossils and jewels". We really enjoyed our time... it was a tour with only us!! Shopping and swimming!

Wednesday: Mining Museum and tour...very scary the way people use to work!! Rollo Jamison Museum is one mans collection of incredible stuff from around that area. And last but not least.. Pendarvis House..yet another tour. This one was about one mans influence in the town and what it did to save it. Swimming again!

Pendarvis House

Thursday (AM): Checked out of above hotel and headed for a Dairy Farm. This tour was GREAT and we all got to try to milk the cow!! We learned so much and really enjoyed our time... it was a tour with only us again!!!

Thursday (PM), Friday, and Saturday: Headed over to Camp Joy! We heard good preaching/teaching. The kids has lots of activities and we all enjoyed playing pool and bumper pool. Kyle and Brother Larry were playing LOTS of the games together.

This week has been an attempt to get back on schedule with school and get a mountain on laundry done, which by Tuesday was accomplished! This week has gone SO incredibly fast I just cannot believe it!

Spectacular

2008-10-18T20:37:00.002-05:00

Oh My!! Spectacular was, well SPECTACULAR!!

As you may have read on Julie's blog, the theme was finding security. It was SO great. I learned so many things. There was just so much to process, but I plan on reviewing my notes a lot. I can't say which speaker I liked the best because they all gave me something to come home with. It was wonderful to hear Julie speak; I really miss hearing her every Sunday morning in Sunday School.

Well, I have so much to finish before bed I must get back to work.

The Last Couple of Days

2008-10-15T07:25:00.002-05:00

I got these from Jim on Monday...just because he loves me.

We have been doing our usual book work, but this week is review. The quarterly test is coming soon; according to Beth this is scary! This is the first time she has used this curriculum, so this is all new to her. Kyle is just going along great, but this is his 3rd year using this curriculum, so he knows what to expect.

I am getting ready to go to the Christian Womanhood Spectacular today and I am looking forward to it very much!! Jayne will have the kids (which of course the kids are thrilled about); I am so grateful to have such a wonderful friend!! I will let you know about the Spectacular on Friday or Saturday.

Tonight was AWESOME

2008-10-12T21:44:00.003-05:00

Wow... tonight was so moving with the presentation of the "Teens of America". It really made me think about all those kids in our town that don't know Jesus as their saviour. I am looking forward to seeing where God will lead our church in this area. It sure was great seeing almost all the young people willing to STAND.

Julie is so wonderful!

2008-10-06T21:51:00.003-05:00

I went to Julie's to have her work on a swim dress for me. Now of course it is way past swimming weather, but we are going on vacation soon and I really needed a new swim dress. The last one I had Julie made also, but it was in the summer of 2003. You can just imagine how bad that thing looks.

Anyway, I mentioned that I needed to make myself a swim dress (and extremely scary process as I have only made pillows, culottes, and skirts for Beth) and she told me she would make it for me!! That is such a huge blessing; you can't even imagine.

Well, the dress is almost finished and it was just great being able to spend that much time with her. As anyone that knows Julie, spending time with her is like spending time with godly wisdom, love, and kindness.

Thank you SO MUCH Julie!

Saturday and Sunday

2008-10-05T21:43:00.007-05:00

Yesterday and today were great!!

The Nursery Appreciation Luncheon was really nice!! (but did I expect anything else) The food was great and spending time with the ladies of the church is always a fun time. The candle swap was fun; we actually got to keep our candle if we liked it this year! I got one called "Walk on the Beach"; I will be lighting it very soon!

And not only was the time out really great, but I came home to a new faucet!!! Jim was doing something in the kitchen and used the faucet and that was enough for him to get a new one.

My faucet has been having issues for... ummm a while now, but it wasn't anything you couldn't get use to. The problem was something wasn't working to hold the center piece in place, so the handle was kinda "off center" shall we say. Once I figured out how to work it with its "new design", it wasn't that bad and I got use to it. If I wanted cold water, I would push the faucet as far to the right as possible. If I wanted hot water, I would pull it back ever so gentle (so to not break it...hee hee) and adjust from there. Anyway, I came home and I have a beautiful new faucet with a sprayer. It looks like this:

Today was really just a great day at church. I love church anyway, but some days are just better than others...I am sure it may have something to do with my spirit.... I loved both messages today and could apply them easily to my life. Could apply. That is always where the trouble is. God's Word works, but I just fail to apply it! But the sermons today really made me want to spend my time worshipping the Lord, not really how I spend my time. I have a tendency to look for corrections and have expectations when I read my Bible. But I totally agree with Pastor on getting up early to spend time with God. I love getting up about 6 am and most of the time I do, but there are days that is just too early! Fortunately, those days aren't often.

Well, I just finished getting Kyle ready for School Camp before I wrote this, and now I am off to get a few more things done. Hope you all have a great night.

Ladies Meeting

2008-10-03T22:18:00.002-05:00

Tonight's Ladies Meeting was really great. I loved the testimony by Mrs. R. and Ms. Sandy's talk about the lives of the missionaries was great. When I think of missionaries the first family that comes to my mind is the Lerisse Family. We had the privilege of having them over to our house when they came to the church many years ago and I have always thought fondly of them since that visit. It is so wonderful to be a part of a church at recognises the efforts of so many people. I am looking forward to seeing what the new aspects will be for this ministry.

Library Play

2008-10-02T21:17:00.006-05:00

Today Beth was in a little play that Ms. Jane from the library hosted. All the kids stood up and read their lines out of a binder. It was very cute. Beth even got to be with her friend Page and Georgia which made it even more fun!

DuPage Children's Museum

2008-09-30T20:26:00.008-05:00

Today we went to the DuPage Children's Museum

You can't tell what this is, but it is a room that is very dark (my camera turns is to normal). You push a button to have a light flash and then you can see your shadow on the wall. The kids enjoyed putting themselves into many poses.
In this room you change the lights and it casts a different color or colors on the "wall"; from the other side all you can see is their shadow of colors.

The music room is very loud! But it is very neat... Beth is playing long screws and the closer picture is wrenches. Kyle is hitting a traditions xylophone made of wood.

The favorite place... the water table. They were trying many different ways to get the water from one place to another by using connecting pieces, tubes, and caps.
As you can see... they loved it.
These sticks actually glow so the pictures aren't a neat as the real thing. (to get a glowing picture I have to settle for no child, and I wanted the artist in the picture) From the opposite side the colors look a little different from the color the sticks are... very neat.

And last but not least, are the microscopes. They looked at gnats, butterfly wings, dragonfly wings, praying mantis wings, moth scales, feathers, and more! The upstairs has changed a lot since we were there last time and it is more science and math related...I liked it much better.

The "Argument"

2008-09-29T21:35:00.004-05:00

My kids have been having an "argument" the past several day.

It goes something like this:

Child 1: My teacher is better than your teacher.

Child 2: No way, I have the best teacher.

and this continues on a few rounds and then they ask me my opinion!

I honestly think I have the best kids, but I didn't want to start another "argument". ;)

7th Anniversary Sunday!!

2008-09-28T19:43:00.005-05:00

Today was great!!! It was a wonderful day with beautiful weather, yummy food, and lots of time with the church family! I really love our church; it really is like being with family. I loved the fact we had evening service in the park, it made the day even more special. A GREAT BIG THANK YOU to all the people that worked hard to plan, bring a dish, and worked before, during, and after!! We have so many wonderful people that are willing to work; it is such a blessing.

I took lots of pictures, so here are a few.

Is Time Moving Faster????

2008-09-24T07:23:00.002-05:00

Well hello everyone!

Sorry it has been such a long time since I have posted. I just don't seem to have my act together lately. The days are going by so fast, I just can't believe it.

We have been busy with our school days (we are already on week 6!) and within the last week or so we have all gone to the dentist; I have gone twice, and now we have added the doctor to the list.

Beth has strep again...crazy since she had her tonsils out to prevent this. She had been feeling "not right" all week, but nothing that would be enough to go to the doctor, except the list of symptoms just kept going:
dizzy
headache
stomach hurts
ears hurt
throat hurts (but by no means "painful")
tired
vomits in a "not-sick-sort-of-way"
and food tastes funny

Well, I am off to get breakfast ready and get our school day going. Have a great day!

Today was so nice

2008-09-07T21:13:00.001-05:00

Church was wonderful. I got to talk to my Mom for about 30 minutes. Jim made dinner. Jim did all the dishes from dinner. And on top of all that it was a beautiful day!!

Wonderful Day

2008-09-06T21:15:00.009-05:00

Today was SO fun; I always love the ladies activities! The chocolate fountain was so neat! Mrs. Lapina gave such a good truth; she helped me rethink some areas where I need to work on the "peace" in my life. I took lots of pictures and we even got a special appearance by none other than Hayden; so cute and so tiny!

Dates

2008-09-05T22:15:00.002-05:00

Well, I have been really enjoying our dates lately, the past three times we have been shopping! And not only are we shopping, but we are shopping for ME. Tonight I got two dresses and two shirts from JCPenney's. I plan on wearing one of them tomorrow. We have also gone out to dinner after two of these night, so I am really feeling spoiled...and now I am going to look it too.

My Sweet Husband

2008-09-04T21:52:00.003-05:00

I just wanted you all to see what was delivered to my door today. The best thing is that they not for anything special... except that he loves me.

Cake Parade!!!

2008-08-31T22:14:00.010-05:00

Here they are!! Well, only some, I am missing a lot of cakes this year for two reasons, I got really busy with the event and my camera batteries died. We had a great event and I heard so many comments on how wonderful the cakes were done. I personally want to say thank you to everyone that made cakes because I know that it is a time consuming process. Congrats to call of the winners!!

Cake Maverick
Caterpillar
Black Tie Wedding
The Cross
Tee It Up (one of the winners)
Pretty in Purple (one of the winners)
Pig-A-Roo (one of the winners)

You Kill It, We Grill It
A Whale of a Tail (one of the winners)
The Manly Meal
Lego Stack (one of the winners)

Pizza (one of the winners)

Wow! Time Flies

2008-08-30T22:28:00.002-05:00

Well, we have had a busy couple weeks! School has been going great! The kids have adjusted well to their new schedule and we all love the fact our time is changeable (I'll tell you more about this later as it has worked great for us).

We have been busy getting ready for the Cake Parade the past couple days and everything that we can do, is finished. Beth has a couple things to do tomorrow... you know, last minute stuff.

So, now I am tired and need to go to bed. :)

First Day of School

2008-08-18T22:13:00.002-05:00

Today was GREAT!

We had a really good first day. I decorated the kitchen with streamers and make a "welcome back" sign, then we shot off some poppers....figured we start this year off with a BANG!!

I made their favorite dinner for lunch and got them some Little Debbie snack cakes. And then to top it off we went out and played in the pool.

Oh, between all this we did do our lessons for the day, and I think they both did a wonderful job. I said to Kyle after all this I thought this was our best first day and he agreed!

Library Party

2008-08-16T20:40:00.003-05:00

Today the kids and I went to the library party at Dellwood Park. We all had a good time and stayed a little longer to play at the park. One of the librarians asked Kyle to help with one of the games and I just loved her comment to me...she said she knew that Kyle would help her and that is why she asked him. I was really proud of him and thought that it showed what she thought of his character.

Football Camp

2008-08-10T22:16:00.005-05:00

This is Kyle RUNNING to us when he first saw us.

During the game.
Team photo.
The most handsome player.

New Look

2008-08-07T18:59:00.002-05:00

So, I got bored with my blog and made it new. There is a great site for free background and I did everything else off blogger. Check out the link in the upper left corner.

All Kinds of Fun

2008-08-06T23:12:00.002-05:00

Today Beth and I went out to breakfast at Honeyfield's... it was very good. After that we went to Strike and Spare for a couple games of bowling; that was really fun. I have to humble myself and tell you that we tied the first game!!! Isn't that terrible! The second game I won, but only by about 25 pins. After we did a couple other things that we had to get done we went swimming for about an hour which was very fun. Well, I am off to bed now. Hope you have a good night.

Cute Little Snowman

2008-08-04T19:45:00.002-05:00

I think Beth thought it was too hot today and she is dreaming about snow!!

And They're Off

2008-08-03T14:24:00.005-05:00

We dropped off Kyle, Ryan, Josh, and Mike at the church just a little bit ago for Football Camp. We hope and pray they will all have a good time and be moved by the preaching! Thanks Jeremy and Jeff for taking the youth out again!

We had a little time to kill, so here are a few pics while we were waiting:

Date Night

2008-08-02T20:19:00.002-05:00

Tonight Jim and I went to The Rockwell Inn in Morris. We had a really nice time and the food was good. After those things we stopped by Wal-Mart and then for a cool drink at Baskin Robbin/Dunkin Donuts.

Flags... Part 2

2008-08-01T11:18:00.006-05:00

Well, I got a phone call from the city and she told me who was the company that was requesting this flagging business.

So, I called the number and the man told me that he can't help and I should call JULIE.

So, I called JULIE and got all the automated stuff... and guess what. They told me to call the company.

So, I called the same company again with a different number and she told me....... they don't have any information and I should ....call JULIE!!!

So, I called JULIE and after ignoring every prompt to do something.... believe it or not a PERSON answered. She, of course, had to transfer me to someone else.

So, I am talking to the next person and.....she has lots of dig numbers, and there is ANOTHER request, so they will come out and mark the ground AGAIN!

So, I call THE ORIGINAL number and he told me LOTS of information, but wasn't able to tell me when they were actually going to do the work.

So, after the man told me all that he transferred my call to the "work load dept." and I found out that work should be done around the 11th.

Since I had her on the phone, I ASKED... I can take the flags out?

She said, "Yes, because all of the flags are expired."

So, I have no flags in the yard, except they are coming out again to place MORE flags.

P.S. In case you want to know... it took only 2 and 1/2 hours before 3 new flags showed up by the tree! :)

Just thinking

2008-07-31T21:24:00.002-05:00

Today was a nice day of enjoying summer. I know I am going to state the obvious, but summer is almost over! I can't believe how quickly time has gone by...seems like we were just saying it is time for our summer break. Today the kids and I enjoyed time in the pool again and then they played until Jim came home for family night.

Flags

2008-07-29T20:13:00.005-05:00

Yep, I titled this post flags. It is however a little more than that... it is a strange story about flags... you know the little flags they put in when someone is going to dig. Oh and pretty paint that reads "OK".

'Round about June 19th a couple of little flags were placed in my front yard in the parkway by our big tree. Then later another... and then more and then it happened again. I never see anyone place these mysterious flags, they just multipy.... So, as of now there a 10... yes, I counted them... 10 flags marking the ground by my tree. There are 5 orange ones, 2 clear ones. and 3 red ones. So, logically one would wonder...why are these flags here? Well since it has been a month and a half (according to their dating the flags) I finally decided to call the companies on the flags.

Call 2: Hmmm I don't know why there are flags there. I don't see anything marked, but they probably are not finished so don't take them out. So, I said... so you have no idea why I have these flags in my yard. Nope. Okay... She asked if there was anything else she could do, I told her no unless she wanted to come pull up some flags... I got her to laugh.

Call to company 2: Hmmm I don't know why there are flags there. I don't see anything marked... (this sound familar) So, rather than answering any more of my questions, she tries to get me to change my home services for theirs....hmmmm, no. After she gave her sales pitch, I asked again about the flags, oh, you should try the state number. Okay sounds reasonable (?)

Connected to company 2 part 2: Hmmm I don't know why there are flags there. I don't see anything marked... (this sound familar). So, he didn't tell me why they were there. BUT he did inform me that they are flags marking the ground... I thought that was very helpful. He then said I should call the village... sure why not!

Call number next: Hmmm I don't know why there are flags there. I don't see anything marked... But at least she said that is strange they don't know why they have flags out. Yeah!!! It's not just me!!!! But she said she would connect me with another part of the city that maybe could tell me if they are doing something in the area.

Connected to number next part 2: Leave a message thinking that I sound like a complete dork...how do you explain all this on a machine??? So, she calls back and asked for the address and will look into it, but there isn't anythign that she is aware of.

So, if you have little flags appear in your yard and no one put them there and no one knows why they are there, don't move them and just enjoy that everything is "OK"???

P.S. I just talked to Jim about this whole thing and after I asked a few questions...Jim said, "I don't know, I didn't put them there".

A Busy Day....For The Kids

2008-07-26T20:42:00.003-05:00

Today Kyle went on the youth activity and had a great time. Beth and I went to Sunday School soul winning and then she went off with her Sunday School teachers for a party. Jim went to work at 6 this morning... so that left me alone from 11 until 4:30 tonight. Oh and was I busy... um..... no, not really. I looked at my email, read my Bible, prayed, read a book, and took a nap. After Beth got home we played "Pay Day" and then we picked up Kyle. I was so full of energy that I went to Wal-Mart and got their chicken for dinner! I talked to Jim on the phone already, so we will do our Bible reading program for the day and then I will be off to bed... because for some reason, I am tired...

How Sweet Is This???

2008-07-23T21:31:00.002-05:00

Today Kyle wanted to have pancakes, so I told him to make them. As he was doing just that he told me not to tell Beth what he was doing because he wanted to surprise her. This is how he set the food out.....How sweet is this?

Library Fun

2008-07-21T21:10:00.005-05:00

Today we went to see a reptile show at the library. It was really neat! The kids got to touch a python, tortoise, and an alligator. We saw several other things too like a red-eyed tree frog, a couple other smaller snakes, a big frog, and an iguana. Here are some pictures.

A Great Day At Church

2008-07-20T21:28:00.007-05:00

What a great day it was having Pastor Petrick preach today! He is such a great example of a Christian that works through problems and with such a great attitude!! It was wonderful hearing some of his testimony; God sure is amazing!

I have to thank Trish for helping Kyle with playing the piano. Kyle was trying to play "Onward Christian Soldiers" but he was having trouble with a couple notes and Trish took so much time with him to help him understand what he should be doing. Kyle and I talked about this one time before today and I was so surprised that he took the initiative to ask her! Trish was so sweet and in my opinion went above and beyond to help him.

It is great to go to a church that has so many people that want to just plain help others.

Happy Birthday Joseph and Matthew!

2008-07-19T22:29:00.002-05:00

Happy 5th Birthday Joseph!

Happy 3rd Birthday Matthew

Medieval Times

2008-07-18T22:33:00.004-05:00

We went to Medieval Times tonight with the Prodehl's. It was a fun evening.

This is the "Red Knight", that is where we were sitting and cheering for.

A Day Out

2008-07-17T21:50:00.003-05:00

I spent today with my Mom, Aunt Sue, and my two sisters at Long Grove. It is an older section of town and has little shops filled with many different collectibles, candles, and tasty treats. It has been a very long time since any of us have been there and unfortunately, it seems to be missing the charm that it use to have, but we all really enjoyed our day together. I forgot my camera at my sister's house, so I took a couple with my phone...if I can figure out how to get them off of the phone, I will post them.

2008-07-14T22:24:00.002-05:00

Today I spent the day with my sister, niece, nephews, and my mom. We went to the zoo (yes, again...) My kids LOVE the zoo so much I think if we went every week it would be a wonderful thing to them! After the zoo we stayed at my sister's and let the kids play, had dinner, and spent time visiting. It was a very nice day.

Camp Maverick Pictures

2008-07-11T20:03:00.004-05:00

Beth had a great time at Camp Maverick!

Here are a few pictures from Friday when I picked her up.

The Zoo With Kyle

2008-07-10T20:54:00.005-05:00

Today Kyle and I went to the zoo together. As I stated in my "zoo post" when Beth and I went it has been many years since I have had only one child with me at the zoo... well, not anymore it was only about 2 weeks ago now. We saw lots of animals, but we didn't make the speed zoo trip like Beth and I did. Here are some pics of our day!