You know, all the things you have done/want to do before you kick the bucket? Well here's my list. I got this from Eden. Feel free to participate. Copy and post this on your blog.
What is this? Well, you’re supposed to bold the things you’ve done so readers can find out how you've led an awesome life so far.(wink,wink!)
Here's what I have done in bold...
1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity (doesn't take much!)
7. Been to Disneyland (I was 4 so I'm not sure it really counts)
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16.Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon (assuming the one my school used to hold to raise money when I was little counts)
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language (I taught myself a little bit of sign language)
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo's David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant (does the homeless guy hanging out outside McDonald's count?)
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
s62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in Londo
77. Broken a bone (just my toe)
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person - grew up in Arizona and I've never seen it!
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit - just my divorce
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee - a wasp, not a bee
100. Read an entire book in one day
About Me
- mothergoose518
- Somewhat Crunchy, Old Fashioned, Fundamental Bible Believing Christian.
Full time stay at home mom to many.
(Two by choice, Six by birth, Eight in Heaven)
Infertility, miscarriage, and stillbirth survivor.
College student. Relaxed homeschooler. Molder of hearts and minds. Cheerer of ball games.
Lover of books. Stringer of words. Wanna be photographer.
Passionate lover and helper of my Super Hubbie!
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Just a wee bit jealous...
The "kitchen" I had as a little girl...
The kitchen Emelia had when she was little, before we left Viriginia when she was almost 4...
The kitchen Sarah got for her first birthday...
Thankful Thursday....
10... Snow days times deux! Followed by a delayed opening and no school on Friday!
9... Winter weather which forces us to slow down and rest.
8.... The beautiful beautiful sun which is shining this morning in all it's glory!
7... My washing machine and dryer, although they aren't fancy and my dryer tends to shrink things (badly) I am so thankful to be able to do laundry at HOME.
6... Dried mangoes... M'mmmm!!!
5... Hot ham and cheese sandwiches with tomato soup on a cold blustery day.
4... My precious husband who actually enjoys talking with me and spending time with me.
3... A God who speaks to me through memorized scripture and hymns in the still small hours of the early early morning.
2... My cell phone which keeps me connected to my Super Hubbie even when he is at work.
1... Not having to worry about the economy, because I know where my hope and security lie!
9... Winter weather which forces us to slow down and rest.
8.... The beautiful beautiful sun which is shining this morning in all it's glory!
7... My washing machine and dryer, although they aren't fancy and my dryer tends to shrink things (badly) I am so thankful to be able to do laundry at HOME.
6... Dried mangoes... M'mmmm!!!
5... Hot ham and cheese sandwiches with tomato soup on a cold blustery day.
4... My precious husband who actually enjoys talking with me and spending time with me.
3... A God who speaks to me through memorized scripture and hymns in the still small hours of the early early morning.
2... My cell phone which keeps me connected to my Super Hubbie even when he is at work.
1... Not having to worry about the economy, because I know where my hope and security lie!
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
He will hide us...
As I was reading Proverbs with the kids this morning (Proverbs 28, as today is the 28th) we noticed that there is a Proverb that repeats its self...
"When the wicked take charge, people go into hiding..."
Joshua (13) asked, "didn't you just read that part already?" and I pointed out that the fact that it repeats its self must mean that it is important. He then drew the comparison, in his smarmy adolescent way, to our new Presdient. And yes, I do believe the word WICKED can be used to describe anyone with so callous a disregard for human life.
There are actually a few verses in Proverbs 28 which speak to the condition of our country...
"Where there is moral rot within a nation, its government topples easily But wise and knowledgeable leaders bring stability." (2)
"A wicked ruler is as dangerous to the poor as a roaringlion or an attacking bear. A ruler with no understanding will oppress his people, but one who hates corruption will have a long life." (15, 16)
So where are we to go into hiding?
"Moses responded, "Then show me your glorious presence." The Lord replied, "I will make all my goodness pass before you, and I will call out My Name, Yahweh, before you. For I will show mercy to anyone I choose, and I will show compassion to anyone I choose. But you may not look directly at My face, for no one may see Me and live. The Lord continued, "Look, stand near Me on this rock. As My glorious presence passes by, I will hide you in the crevice of the rock and cover you with My hand until I have passed by. Then I will remove My hand and let you see Me from behind. But My face will not be seen."" ~ Exodus 33:18-23
A wonderful Savior is Jesus my Lord,A wonderful Savior to me; He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock, Where rivers of pleasure I see.
He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rockThat shadows a dry, thirsty land; He hideth my life with the depths of His love, And covers me there with His hand,
A wonderful Savior is Jesus my Lord,He taketh my burden away; He holdeth me up, and I shall not be moved, He giveth me strength as my day.
He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock That shadows a dry, thirsty land; He hideth my life with the depths of His love, And covers me there with His hand,
With numberless blessings each moment He crowns, And filled with His fullness divine, I sing in my rapture, oh, glory to God or such a Redeemer as mine!
He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock That shadows a dry, thirsty land; He hideth my life with the depths of His love, And covers me there with His hand,
When clothed in His brightness, transported I rise To meet Him in clouds of the sky, His perfect salvation, His wonderful love I'll shout with the millions on high.
He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock That shadows a dry, thirsty land; He hideth my life with the depths of His love, And covers me there with His hand,
"When the wicked take charge, people go into hiding..."
Joshua (13) asked, "didn't you just read that part already?" and I pointed out that the fact that it repeats its self must mean that it is important. He then drew the comparison, in his smarmy adolescent way, to our new Presdient. And yes, I do believe the word WICKED can be used to describe anyone with so callous a disregard for human life.
There are actually a few verses in Proverbs 28 which speak to the condition of our country...
"Where there is moral rot within a nation, its government topples easily But wise and knowledgeable leaders bring stability." (2)
"A wicked ruler is as dangerous to the poor as a roaringlion or an attacking bear. A ruler with no understanding will oppress his people, but one who hates corruption will have a long life." (15, 16)
So where are we to go into hiding?
"Moses responded, "Then show me your glorious presence." The Lord replied, "I will make all my goodness pass before you, and I will call out My Name, Yahweh, before you. For I will show mercy to anyone I choose, and I will show compassion to anyone I choose. But you may not look directly at My face, for no one may see Me and live. The Lord continued, "Look, stand near Me on this rock. As My glorious presence passes by, I will hide you in the crevice of the rock and cover you with My hand until I have passed by. Then I will remove My hand and let you see Me from behind. But My face will not be seen."" ~ Exodus 33:18-23
A wonderful Savior is Jesus my Lord,A wonderful Savior to me; He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock, Where rivers of pleasure I see.
He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rockThat shadows a dry, thirsty land; He hideth my life with the depths of His love, And covers me there with His hand,
And covers me there with His hand.
A wonderful Savior is Jesus my Lord,He taketh my burden away; He holdeth me up, and I shall not be moved, He giveth me strength as my day.
He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock That shadows a dry, thirsty land; He hideth my life with the depths of His love, And covers me there with His hand,
And covers me there with His hand.
With numberless blessings each moment He crowns, And filled with His fullness divine, I sing in my rapture, oh, glory to God or such a Redeemer as mine!
He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock That shadows a dry, thirsty land; He hideth my life with the depths of His love, And covers me there with His hand,
And covers me there with His hand.
When clothed in His brightness, transported I rise To meet Him in clouds of the sky, His perfect salvation, His wonderful love I'll shout with the millions on high.
He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock That shadows a dry, thirsty land; He hideth my life with the depths of His love, And covers me there with His hand,
And covers me there with His hand.
~ Fanny J. Crosby
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Above all else, guard your heart...
I am sitting here reading Proverbs 4, trying to disect it and decide which pieces to quote here. I am focusing on the parts that speak to a very important part of raising our children as they approach and go through their teen years - guarding their heart.
When did we stop teaching our children to guard their hearts? When did it become widely acceptable for children as young as 12 and 13 years old, some even younger, to have "serious" "commited" "romantic" relationships?! What makes us think that this is appropriate? What makes us think they have any idea what they are doing? How does this prepare them for life?
Dating/courting should be preparation for marriage. What 13 year old is prepared for marriage? What 16 or 17 year old is for that matter? Heck, you show me a 21 year old who is prepared for marriage and I will show you a rare exception. (Says the woman who was first married at 19... see how well that worked out for me? 'Nuff said!)
No wonder spouses don't trust each other any more. No wonder our children have lost their virtue. No wonder our daughters suffer the devastation of a broken heart before they even leave high school.
We are teaching our children that it is ok to give their heart away. We have failed to provide boundaries of protection around our children. We have failed to teach them how very precious the relationship they are trying to emulate is, how very sacred and special. We have failed to teach them of the heartache they cause themselves not only now but in their future marriage when they give away their hearts, and often inevitably their bodies, too soon. We smile and say "isn't that cute?!" while our children press against each other and kiss in public and then become angry when it all comes crashing down around them.
Mothers of teenagers - the blame lies with YOU! You who did nothing to stop it. You who gave your son or daughter the impression that their relationship was a good and normal part of the teenage experience. You who did not monitor your child's activities closely.
As for my own teenagers... There is no cell phone, no texting, no unsupervised internet. no IMing, no myspace, no Facebook. There will be no expectation of privacy as long as they live under this roof and no friends of either sex will ever be allowed in the bedrooms. There will be no visiting the homes of parents who do not hold the same standards. They will be in bed at a decent hour, up at a decent hour, and their time will not be spent in idleness. We will know where they are, who they are with, and what they are doing at all times. They will go no where without a chaperone until they are finished with high school. They are being taught how precious a kiss is and how difficult it will be when they marry to know that their spouses kisses, etc. have been given to another. They are being taught that kissing is reserved for someone you are preparing to marry, or have married. They are being taught to guard their hearts, and to think carefully about anyone they consider as a marriage partner before becoming involved.
Parents, do your job! Monitor your children. Censor their exposure to TV, internet, music, etc. Hold a tight rein on them. Monitor their speech, their friendships, and activities. Will they chafe? Of course! Will they appreciate it? Not immediately. Is it hard work? Terribly! Will it pay off in the end? Absolutely! All they'll be missing is a heart ache.
"My child, listen to me and do as I say, and you will have a long, good life. I will teach you wisdom’s ways and lead you in straight paths. When you walk, you won’t be held back; when you run, you won’t stumble. Take hold of my instructions; don’t let them go. Guard them, for they are the key to life. Don’t do as the wicked do, and don’t follow the path of evildoers. Don’t even think about it; don’t go that way. Turn away and keep moving... The way of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, which shines ever brighter until the full light of day. But the way of the wicked is like total darkness. They have no idea what they are stumbling over. My child, pay attention to what I say. Listen carefully to my words. Don’t lose sight of them. Let them penetrate deep into your heart, for they bring life to those who find them, and healing to their whole body. Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. Avoid all perverse talk; stay away from corrupt speech. Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you. Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path. Don’t get sidetracked; keep your feet from following evil." ~ Proverbs 4: 10-15, 20-27
When did we stop teaching our children to guard their hearts? When did it become widely acceptable for children as young as 12 and 13 years old, some even younger, to have "serious" "commited" "romantic" relationships?! What makes us think that this is appropriate? What makes us think they have any idea what they are doing? How does this prepare them for life?
Dating/courting should be preparation for marriage. What 13 year old is prepared for marriage? What 16 or 17 year old is for that matter? Heck, you show me a 21 year old who is prepared for marriage and I will show you a rare exception. (Says the woman who was first married at 19... see how well that worked out for me? 'Nuff said!)
No wonder spouses don't trust each other any more. No wonder our children have lost their virtue. No wonder our daughters suffer the devastation of a broken heart before they even leave high school.
We are teaching our children that it is ok to give their heart away. We have failed to provide boundaries of protection around our children. We have failed to teach them how very precious the relationship they are trying to emulate is, how very sacred and special. We have failed to teach them of the heartache they cause themselves not only now but in their future marriage when they give away their hearts, and often inevitably their bodies, too soon. We smile and say "isn't that cute?!" while our children press against each other and kiss in public and then become angry when it all comes crashing down around them.
Mothers of teenagers - the blame lies with YOU! You who did nothing to stop it. You who gave your son or daughter the impression that their relationship was a good and normal part of the teenage experience. You who did not monitor your child's activities closely.
As for my own teenagers... There is no cell phone, no texting, no unsupervised internet. no IMing, no myspace, no Facebook. There will be no expectation of privacy as long as they live under this roof and no friends of either sex will ever be allowed in the bedrooms. There will be no visiting the homes of parents who do not hold the same standards. They will be in bed at a decent hour, up at a decent hour, and their time will not be spent in idleness. We will know where they are, who they are with, and what they are doing at all times. They will go no where without a chaperone until they are finished with high school. They are being taught how precious a kiss is and how difficult it will be when they marry to know that their spouses kisses, etc. have been given to another. They are being taught that kissing is reserved for someone you are preparing to marry, or have married. They are being taught to guard their hearts, and to think carefully about anyone they consider as a marriage partner before becoming involved.
Parents, do your job! Monitor your children. Censor their exposure to TV, internet, music, etc. Hold a tight rein on them. Monitor their speech, their friendships, and activities. Will they chafe? Of course! Will they appreciate it? Not immediately. Is it hard work? Terribly! Will it pay off in the end? Absolutely! All they'll be missing is a heart ache.
"My child, listen to me and do as I say, and you will have a long, good life. I will teach you wisdom’s ways and lead you in straight paths. When you walk, you won’t be held back; when you run, you won’t stumble. Take hold of my instructions; don’t let them go. Guard them, for they are the key to life. Don’t do as the wicked do, and don’t follow the path of evildoers. Don’t even think about it; don’t go that way. Turn away and keep moving... The way of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, which shines ever brighter until the full light of day. But the way of the wicked is like total darkness. They have no idea what they are stumbling over. My child, pay attention to what I say. Listen carefully to my words. Don’t lose sight of them. Let them penetrate deep into your heart, for they bring life to those who find them, and healing to their whole body. Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. Avoid all perverse talk; stay away from corrupt speech. Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you. Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path. Don’t get sidetracked; keep your feet from following evil." ~ Proverbs 4: 10-15, 20-27
Monday, January 26, 2009
Frazzled mama...
I keep thinking of things I want to write about, but by the time I sit down at the computer it has escaped me.
I had a mostly lovely day today. After my follow up doctors appointment I took Sarah to Chic-Fil-A for lunch and then let her play in the play area. She really had a lot of fun and I so enjoyed watching her discover and enjoy. Super Hubbie came and met us and hung out with us for a bit and then we went to Toys R Us to try to find a play kitchen for Sarah's birthday... which was 2 weeks ago and we still haven't celebrated. They didn't have one I liked so I came home and ordered one online. I got one new in the box on ebay for half of what I would have paid in the store! Whoo hoo!!! I can't wait for it to get here!!! Now I just need to get her some play food to go with it.
Life with a teenager is really interesting. They can be sweet and gracious and helpful one minute and then in a split second they are full of attitude making you want to send them to the moon. J was in fine form tonight but by bed time he was my sweet little boy again. I wouldn't be a teenager again if you paid me!!!
The sermon at church yesterday was out of 1 Corinthians 1... I'll write some about that tomorrow.
TTFN...
I had a mostly lovely day today. After my follow up doctors appointment I took Sarah to Chic-Fil-A for lunch and then let her play in the play area. She really had a lot of fun and I so enjoyed watching her discover and enjoy. Super Hubbie came and met us and hung out with us for a bit and then we went to Toys R Us to try to find a play kitchen for Sarah's birthday... which was 2 weeks ago and we still haven't celebrated. They didn't have one I liked so I came home and ordered one online. I got one new in the box on ebay for half of what I would have paid in the store! Whoo hoo!!! I can't wait for it to get here!!! Now I just need to get her some play food to go with it.
Life with a teenager is really interesting. They can be sweet and gracious and helpful one minute and then in a split second they are full of attitude making you want to send them to the moon. J was in fine form tonight but by bed time he was my sweet little boy again. I wouldn't be a teenager again if you paid me!!!
The sermon at church yesterday was out of 1 Corinthians 1... I'll write some about that tomorrow.
TTFN...
Friday, January 23, 2009
Finally Friday...
Sarah and I napping together on the couch right after I got home from the hospital on Tuesday morning...Well, it's Friday. My husband is at work and 4 of my 5 kiddos are tucked into bed. One remains who has been dawdling all day and is not allowed to go to bed until he finishes folding his laundry. Frankly, he could be up for hours. I certainly hope not. The house is quiet except for his occaisonaly groaning and whining (hey, at least it isn't wailing and nashing of teeth!) and the distant sound of my dryer running.
Frustratingly, I don't really have anything deep and meaningful to write about tonight. With my illness it's been a while since I've been spiritually or emotionally fed so I'm kind of running on empty.
I could bore you with the details of my life today. How I went to pick up a prescription for Potassium only to find out that my antibiotic had been changed to a more board spectrum one AND an antifungal had been thrown in for good measure. That's right, I have to swallow not 1, not 2, but 3 HUMONGOUS GIANORMOUS pills twice a day. For the next 10 days. I am so not happy.
I could put you to sleep with tales of the new sturdier baby gates I bought but can't seem to figure out how to install. I wonder if that means they are SUPER safe?!
I had taco bell for dinner. It was oddly spicy. Do you care? Yeah, probably not. I should probably head towards bed... the child in question is almost finished!
Frustratingly, I don't really have anything deep and meaningful to write about tonight. With my illness it's been a while since I've been spiritually or emotionally fed so I'm kind of running on empty.
I could bore you with the details of my life today. How I went to pick up a prescription for Potassium only to find out that my antibiotic had been changed to a more board spectrum one AND an antifungal had been thrown in for good measure. That's right, I have to swallow not 1, not 2, but 3 HUMONGOUS GIANORMOUS pills twice a day. For the next 10 days. I am so not happy.
I could put you to sleep with tales of the new sturdier baby gates I bought but can't seem to figure out how to install. I wonder if that means they are SUPER safe?!
I had taco bell for dinner. It was oddly spicy. Do you care? Yeah, probably not. I should probably head towards bed... the child in question is almost finished!
"Christ is the visible image of the invisible God. He existed before anything was created and is supreme over all creation, for through Him God created everything in the heavenly realms and on earth. He made the things we can see and the things we can’t see— such as thrones, kingdoms, rulers, and authorities in the unseen world. Everything was created through Him and for Him. He existed before anything else, and He holds all creation together. Christ is also the head of the church, which is His body. He is the beginning, supreme over all who rise from the dead. So he is first in everything. For God in all His fullness was pleased to live in Christ, and through him God reconciled everything to himself. He made peace with everything in heaven and on earth by means of Christ’s blood on the cross. This includes you who were once far away from God. You were His enemies, separated from Him by your evil thoughts and actions. Yet now He has reconciled you to Himself through the death of Christ in His physical body. As a result, He has brought you into His own presence, and you are holy and blameless as you stand before Him without a single fault. But you must continue to believe this truth and stand firmly in it. Don’t drift away from the assurance you received when you heard the Good News. The Good News has been preached all over the world, and I, Paul, have been appointed as God’s servant to proclaim it." ~ Colosians 1:15-23
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Thankful Thursday...
10. My 10 year old daughter, Emelia. During my illness when I was so sick that I could barely get myself to the bathroom to pee she waited on me hand and foot. She brought me drinks, she changed diapers, she chased down Sarah... and not once did she ever complain, grumble, roll her eyes. She has had an immediate cheerful, giving response. I am so thankful for her servant's heart.
9. Kaiser. As much of a pain in the butt as they can be, I really am thankful for them. If we had any other insurance I'd have been hospitalized. Kaiser was able to treat me outpatient and I didn't have to be seperated from my babies.
8. Timing... Gene only missed one day of work due to my illness. While I feel like I didn't really see him at all during his time off, he was there for me and took over the house and kids. What a guy!
7. Friends who love me.
6. My walking babbling baby who asks to nurse please in sign language in the cutest of ways.
5. Esther - the mom of my children's classmates who has graciously transported my kiddos to and from school this week.
4. My new doctor and new doctor's office. Close, and I really like her. I feel like I can really address some of the other health issues I've ignored for years because I couldn't get a doctor to listen to me.
3. My couch. It's ugly as sin and actually I hate it but it has served me well these past few days.
2. A&W Rootbeer Freeze.... Mmmmm!!!
1. I have a God who know's my name, sees my need, and meets every one!
9. Kaiser. As much of a pain in the butt as they can be, I really am thankful for them. If we had any other insurance I'd have been hospitalized. Kaiser was able to treat me outpatient and I didn't have to be seperated from my babies.
8. Timing... Gene only missed one day of work due to my illness. While I feel like I didn't really see him at all during his time off, he was there for me and took over the house and kids. What a guy!
7. Friends who love me.
6. My walking babbling baby who asks to nurse please in sign language in the cutest of ways.
5. Esther - the mom of my children's classmates who has graciously transported my kiddos to and from school this week.
4. My new doctor and new doctor's office. Close, and I really like her. I feel like I can really address some of the other health issues I've ignored for years because I couldn't get a doctor to listen to me.
3. My couch. It's ugly as sin and actually I hate it but it has served me well these past few days.
2. A&W Rootbeer Freeze.... Mmmmm!!!
1. I have a God who know's my name, sees my need, and meets every one!
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Hold onto the precious moments, they are fleeting...
When Sarah and I lay down to nurse she likes to caress my belly and rib cage with her open hand. It is just the sweetest and most tender thing and Elijah never did it when he was a baby. While I was nursing her to sleep tonight she was doing it and I thought "someday I'll be wrinkly and gross and no one will want to touch me at all".
Unexpectedly I was filled with an intense sense of despair and loneliness. I know Gene will still want to hold me and touch me when I'm old and gross, but things being what they are he is most likely going to die before me.
Sometimes I really hate this corruptable sin scarred world we live in. It is so bitterly sweet, with joy and sorrow so closely entwined they can never be unraveled from each other.
My heart aches for all the young women (and men!) who are trapped in aging bodies. I don't want to get old. Maranatha, even so... come Lord Jesus!
"Be happy, young man, while you are young, and let your heart give you joy in the days of your youth. Follow the ways of your heart and whatever your eyes see, but know that for all these things God will bring you to judgment. So then, banish anxiety from your heart and cast off the troubles of your body, for youth and vigor are meaningless." ~ Ecclesiastes 11:9,10
Unexpectedly I was filled with an intense sense of despair and loneliness. I know Gene will still want to hold me and touch me when I'm old and gross, but things being what they are he is most likely going to die before me.
Sometimes I really hate this corruptable sin scarred world we live in. It is so bitterly sweet, with joy and sorrow so closely entwined they can never be unraveled from each other.
My heart aches for all the young women (and men!) who are trapped in aging bodies. I don't want to get old. Maranatha, even so... come Lord Jesus!
"Be happy, young man, while you are young, and let your heart give you joy in the days of your youth. Follow the ways of your heart and whatever your eyes see, but know that for all these things God will bring you to judgment. So then, banish anxiety from your heart and cast off the troubles of your body, for youth and vigor are meaningless." ~ Ecclesiastes 11:9,10
Oh me who never learns...
A community is supposed to be a living breathing entity. Each member giving and taking equally in a harmonious partnership. There are always those who don't contribute properly. We usually recognize these individuals as those are are all too eager for a handout, whether it be needed or not. These are the leeches of society. They feed and feed until there is nothing left to give and then move on to someone else.
Another scenario which is just as wrong, but not so easily recognized are the givers. Those who give and give and give but are very reluctant to receive in return. These people will not ask for help until they reach that point where they exhausted every other resource, those most filled with pride wont ever ask at all.
I am this person. And I never learn. Each time God places me in a position where I am dependant on those He has placed in my life I spend the whole time paddeling. For every blessing I try to bless in return. When I was a single mother this was a great source of frustration for me, as my resources were severly limited. I paid back in what ways I could - acts of service. Doing laundry, swallowing the cost of heating the water and running my washer and dryer, cleaning, baby sitting, organizing... if I was able I did it. I always knew it was never enough but still I felt the need to repay. My best was never good enough.
This past week I have found myself again in a situation where I was dependant on others, only this time far more so. This time drove me straight to the couch. If I wanted a drink of water, I had to ask for help. If I needed medication, I had to ask for it. When my baby needed her diaper change, I had to ask someone to do it. When she needed food, I had to ask someone to feed her. When my milk started to dry up because I was dehydrated I had to depend on someone else to give her a cup of water. When I needed to see a doctor I needed someone to drive me there. When I was to weak to walk on my own I had to lean on someone elses arm. I had to depend on others to transport my children to and from school.
Acute pylonephritus. That was my official diagosis. A severe kidney infection, probably caused by an undetected bladder infection. It was compounded when I developed a minor stomach virus. I was one very VERY sick girl. I have never ever EVER been so sick in my entire life. And I am such a wuss! I would make a terrible terrible cancer patient. I think of 2 people close to my heart who have been through so much worse with their health and I cower in shame that I should complain.
Rebecca, who having been diagnosed with Non Hodgkins Lymphoma was nearly killed by the chemotherapy that saved her life. Subsequently the radiation which shrunk the tumor also temporarily destroyed her taste buds causing even water to taste like poison.
Jamie, who at 15 weeks pregnant had to have emergency surgery to remove her gall bladder. Upon waking up she was told that if they had waited any longer she would have lost her son because she had started to turn septic. Jamie continued to suffer horrible attacks of pain for MONTHS and no matter who she turned to no answer could be found. Finally it was discovered that the doctor who removed her gall bladder had left several sizable stones in her bile duct.
In comparison, I have nothing to complain about. But to me, it was a mountain.
I had to trust.
I had to trust that my husband would take care of me and meet my needs. I had to trust that he would understand one of those needs would be trying to do certain things the way I do. Not that it had to be done perfectly, but that he would understand what things would be a priority to me. I had to trust him to take care of me.
He came through. Boy, did he ever come through. My house wasn't clean, but it was doable. My kids were taken care of. And he was there for me. He even got up in the middle of the night and gave me a suppository. On the last night that I was sick he sat next to me on the bed as I threw up - right next to me. When I was finished and had rinsed out my mouth and laid back down he went downstairs and called Kaiser and when they said they wanted me to go to the emergency room he packed the baby and I into the car and took us, even though it was 3:30 in the morning. That man showed me such love, care, and devotion and there is nothing I can ever do to repay him.
But there's the catch. It isn't meant to be repaid. That's what love is. That's what grace is. That's what a GIFT is.
My head knows this. I wonder if my heart is really ever going to get it.
Another scenario which is just as wrong, but not so easily recognized are the givers. Those who give and give and give but are very reluctant to receive in return. These people will not ask for help until they reach that point where they exhausted every other resource, those most filled with pride wont ever ask at all.
I am this person. And I never learn. Each time God places me in a position where I am dependant on those He has placed in my life I spend the whole time paddeling. For every blessing I try to bless in return. When I was a single mother this was a great source of frustration for me, as my resources were severly limited. I paid back in what ways I could - acts of service. Doing laundry, swallowing the cost of heating the water and running my washer and dryer, cleaning, baby sitting, organizing... if I was able I did it. I always knew it was never enough but still I felt the need to repay. My best was never good enough.
This past week I have found myself again in a situation where I was dependant on others, only this time far more so. This time drove me straight to the couch. If I wanted a drink of water, I had to ask for help. If I needed medication, I had to ask for it. When my baby needed her diaper change, I had to ask someone to do it. When she needed food, I had to ask someone to feed her. When my milk started to dry up because I was dehydrated I had to depend on someone else to give her a cup of water. When I needed to see a doctor I needed someone to drive me there. When I was to weak to walk on my own I had to lean on someone elses arm. I had to depend on others to transport my children to and from school.
Acute pylonephritus. That was my official diagosis. A severe kidney infection, probably caused by an undetected bladder infection. It was compounded when I developed a minor stomach virus. I was one very VERY sick girl. I have never ever EVER been so sick in my entire life. And I am such a wuss! I would make a terrible terrible cancer patient. I think of 2 people close to my heart who have been through so much worse with their health and I cower in shame that I should complain.
Rebecca, who having been diagnosed with Non Hodgkins Lymphoma was nearly killed by the chemotherapy that saved her life. Subsequently the radiation which shrunk the tumor also temporarily destroyed her taste buds causing even water to taste like poison.
Jamie, who at 15 weeks pregnant had to have emergency surgery to remove her gall bladder. Upon waking up she was told that if they had waited any longer she would have lost her son because she had started to turn septic. Jamie continued to suffer horrible attacks of pain for MONTHS and no matter who she turned to no answer could be found. Finally it was discovered that the doctor who removed her gall bladder had left several sizable stones in her bile duct.
In comparison, I have nothing to complain about. But to me, it was a mountain.
I had to trust.
I had to trust that my husband would take care of me and meet my needs. I had to trust that he would understand one of those needs would be trying to do certain things the way I do. Not that it had to be done perfectly, but that he would understand what things would be a priority to me. I had to trust him to take care of me.
He came through. Boy, did he ever come through. My house wasn't clean, but it was doable. My kids were taken care of. And he was there for me. He even got up in the middle of the night and gave me a suppository. On the last night that I was sick he sat next to me on the bed as I threw up - right next to me. When I was finished and had rinsed out my mouth and laid back down he went downstairs and called Kaiser and when they said they wanted me to go to the emergency room he packed the baby and I into the car and took us, even though it was 3:30 in the morning. That man showed me such love, care, and devotion and there is nothing I can ever do to repay him.
But there's the catch. It isn't meant to be repaid. That's what love is. That's what grace is. That's what a GIFT is.
My head knows this. I wonder if my heart is really ever going to get it.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Hidden in my heart...
"I have hidden Your word in my heart, that I might not sin against You." Psalm 119:11
As I was trying to decide what to write about this morning the Lord laid this verse on my heart. I am particularly narrowing in on the word hidden. What does it mean, and why is it there?
The Hebrew word is "tsaphan", and more specifically the verb is past tense - meaning it has already happened. The definition is: to hide, treasure, treasure or store up; to hide, to lie hidden, lurk. (http://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=H6845&t=KJV)
So again, what does that MEAN?! Well, two things.
First of all it means that God's Word is something of great value to you. You keep it close to you and guard it.
Second of all, it's in there. You haven't just heard it, you know it. Even if you can't quote chapter and verse you know what God's Word says. It is written upon your heart and you can draw from it over and over again. Because it is written on the tablet of your heart, the Holy Spirit can speak to you through it by bringing verses to the forefront of your mind that are relevant to your life at the moment, or that will minister to someone else. You know it well enough that you can open up God's Word and find it, and understand the context that it is given in.
"Teach me your decrees, O Lord; I will keep them to the end. Give me understanding and I will obey your instructions; I will put them into practice with all my heart. Make me walk along the path of your commands, for that is where my happiness is found. Give me an eagerness for your laws rather than a love for money! Turn my eyes from worthless things, and give me life through your word. Reassure me of your promise, made to those who fear you. Help me abandon my shameful ways; for your regulations are good. I long to obey your commandments! Renew my life with your goodness." Psalm 119:33-40
As I was trying to decide what to write about this morning the Lord laid this verse on my heart. I am particularly narrowing in on the word hidden. What does it mean, and why is it there?
The Hebrew word is "tsaphan", and more specifically the verb is past tense - meaning it has already happened. The definition is: to hide, treasure, treasure or store up; to hide, to lie hidden, lurk. (http://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=H6845&t=KJV)
So again, what does that MEAN?! Well, two things.
First of all it means that God's Word is something of great value to you. You keep it close to you and guard it.
Second of all, it's in there. You haven't just heard it, you know it. Even if you can't quote chapter and verse you know what God's Word says. It is written upon your heart and you can draw from it over and over again. Because it is written on the tablet of your heart, the Holy Spirit can speak to you through it by bringing verses to the forefront of your mind that are relevant to your life at the moment, or that will minister to someone else. You know it well enough that you can open up God's Word and find it, and understand the context that it is given in.
"Teach me your decrees, O Lord; I will keep them to the end. Give me understanding and I will obey your instructions; I will put them into practice with all my heart. Make me walk along the path of your commands, for that is where my happiness is found. Give me an eagerness for your laws rather than a love for money! Turn my eyes from worthless things, and give me life through your word. Reassure me of your promise, made to those who fear you. Help me abandon my shameful ways; for your regulations are good. I long to obey your commandments! Renew my life with your goodness." Psalm 119:33-40
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
And away... we... goooo!!!
How's this for a maiden blog entry? I am so excited about my new blog it is not even funny!
So anyway, I've been a good little mommy and have gotten up and COOKED my children a hot breakfast every morning that school has been in session this year. I've not missed one single day. After I've served them I go crawl back into bed until it is time to take them to school... unless of course my wonderful Super Hubbie is home in which case he takes them and lets me sleep. (This is a serious act of love... you have no idea how very much I adore sleep or how very much I abhore mornings!)
A few weeks ago it occurred to me that I really did not have any excuse to not sit up with my children for a few extra minutes and do devotions with them. I asked them to help me remember by reminding me and they have been wonderful about doing that. There have been 2 or 3 mornings where I really just had to go back to bed because I had been up all night with the baby, but I am really enjoying it.
I read the Proverbs of the day first and then after that I read a devotion. I am currently going through the children's version of Hinds Feet on High Places and am finding myself profoundly blessed by it. I am thinking of a couple of adult friends I think I would like to buy this book for.
The chapter we read today is called "Through the Desert and Loneliness" and the theme of it is "Acceptance-With-Joy". Here is a small excerpt:
"Much-Afraid thought of the things she had seen in the pyramid: the threshing-floor, the potter's wheel, and the fiery furnace. The words of the little golden flower echoed in her mind and she said to herself, "I too want to be Acceptance-With-Joy. Whatever He lets me go through, I want to trust Him and allow Him to have His way in my life. And I want to do it with joy in my heart."
Amen, and Amen!
Be blessed!!!
So anyway, I've been a good little mommy and have gotten up and COOKED my children a hot breakfast every morning that school has been in session this year. I've not missed one single day. After I've served them I go crawl back into bed until it is time to take them to school... unless of course my wonderful Super Hubbie is home in which case he takes them and lets me sleep. (This is a serious act of love... you have no idea how very much I adore sleep or how very much I abhore mornings!)
A few weeks ago it occurred to me that I really did not have any excuse to not sit up with my children for a few extra minutes and do devotions with them. I asked them to help me remember by reminding me and they have been wonderful about doing that. There have been 2 or 3 mornings where I really just had to go back to bed because I had been up all night with the baby, but I am really enjoying it.
I read the Proverbs of the day first and then after that I read a devotion. I am currently going through the children's version of Hinds Feet on High Places and am finding myself profoundly blessed by it. I am thinking of a couple of adult friends I think I would like to buy this book for.
The chapter we read today is called "Through the Desert and Loneliness" and the theme of it is "Acceptance-With-Joy". Here is a small excerpt:
"Much-Afraid thought of the things she had seen in the pyramid: the threshing-floor, the potter's wheel, and the fiery furnace. The words of the little golden flower echoed in her mind and she said to herself, "I too want to be Acceptance-With-Joy. Whatever He lets me go through, I want to trust Him and allow Him to have His way in my life. And I want to do it with joy in my heart."
Amen, and Amen!
Be blessed!!!
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