Yesterday, Abe and I were doing a little game. I would say a word and I wanted him to give me two different defintions.
For example:
Me: Bat
Him: while flapping his arms he said a bat that flies and what you would hit a ball with.
Me: Blue
Him: My shirt is blue and I'm down in the dumps blue.
That struck me odd because the only people I know who refer to down in the dumps as blue are my mom and grandma.
So I asked my little Mennonite girl, I mean 7 year old son where on earth he would have ever heard "down in the dumps blue?"
Him: I dunno know! TV?
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Just a tad....
Yesterday it was warm and windy. Today it is snowing and freezing and windy.
Today happens to be trash day in my neighborhood. Every other dumpster was tipped over and trash is everywhere. These are the same people who have limbs piled sky high in front of the houses from the December 8 storm. I'm guessing that trash will be in the yards and in the streets until - oh - at least the fourth of July. I know we live South of the tracks but good grief! Now I really feel as if we live in the ghetto. Does nobody have pride of ownership?? Where have all the picky people gone? Oh! Up North!
I thought this storm was tomorrow and thus didn't send snow boots to school with Abe. Now it will cost me $5.00, in the gas guzzling SUV, to drive the three blocks from our house to the school to pick him up.
In addition, my daily walking schedule is off kilter. Mostly, due to the weather.
Cranky? Yes. Just a tad.
Today happens to be trash day in my neighborhood. Every other dumpster was tipped over and trash is everywhere. These are the same people who have limbs piled sky high in front of the houses from the December 8 storm. I'm guessing that trash will be in the yards and in the streets until - oh - at least the fourth of July. I know we live South of the tracks but good grief! Now I really feel as if we live in the ghetto. Does nobody have pride of ownership?? Where have all the picky people gone? Oh! Up North!
I thought this storm was tomorrow and thus didn't send snow boots to school with Abe. Now it will cost me $5.00, in the gas guzzling SUV, to drive the three blocks from our house to the school to pick him up.
In addition, my daily walking schedule is off kilter. Mostly, due to the weather.
Cranky? Yes. Just a tad.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Mac & Cheese
As I was scanning the church bulletin yesterday morning something caught my eye.
Summer camp dates. Specifically Trailblazer Camp, which is 3-5 grade.
I leaned over and asked Annie if she thought that meant Abe needed to be entering 3rd grade or have finished 3rd grade.
She pointed to dates and I re-read the information.
Trailblazer Camp 3-5 grade IN THE FALL.
How could I have overlooked IN THE FALL? I know. I am in complete denial that my baby is old enough to go to camp and spend the night - or several nights - away from home- with people that aren't his relatives. With a bunch of people I haven't ran background checks on.
Annie was quick to point out to us that he could probably survive a week in the wilderness all by himself.
He is pretty resourceful. He is mature (well - he CAN be). He swims like a fish. He is not a picky eater. He sleeps well. He is a friend to all. He can operate a cigarette lighter (Thanks Dad!) so he could be in charge of the camp fire.
Which is why I can't figure out why I have a lump in my throat just thinking about sending him off to summer camp.
I think if I suggested being a camp counselor some red flags may be raised.
However, I make a mean batch of mac & cheese & hot dogs...
...AND I have always had a dream of being a cook at summer camp.
You read that on my Bucket List - remember?
Summer camp dates. Specifically Trailblazer Camp, which is 3-5 grade.
I leaned over and asked Annie if she thought that meant Abe needed to be entering 3rd grade or have finished 3rd grade.
She pointed to dates and I re-read the information.
Trailblazer Camp 3-5 grade IN THE FALL.
How could I have overlooked IN THE FALL? I know. I am in complete denial that my baby is old enough to go to camp and spend the night - or several nights - away from home- with people that aren't his relatives. With a bunch of people I haven't ran background checks on.
Annie was quick to point out to us that he could probably survive a week in the wilderness all by himself.
He is pretty resourceful. He is mature (well - he CAN be). He swims like a fish. He is not a picky eater. He sleeps well. He is a friend to all. He can operate a cigarette lighter (Thanks Dad!) so he could be in charge of the camp fire.
Which is why I can't figure out why I have a lump in my throat just thinking about sending him off to summer camp.
I think if I suggested being a camp counselor some red flags may be raised.
However, I make a mean batch of mac & cheese & hot dogs...
...AND I have always had a dream of being a cook at summer camp.
You read that on my Bucket List - remember?
Friday, January 25, 2008
New Chapter
Once upon a time there were two sisters. They were both adorable but about as different as two sisters could be.
The big sister loved to read. She has been reading since before she could talk! She read fiction. She read non-fiction. When there was nothing at all to read - she read the Bible. Pretty intense for a 12 year old. Today - she always has several books going at once. She loves fiction. She loves non-fiction. She loves the Bible.
The little sister hated reading. Despised it, actually. She CAN read. I have caught her reading Cliff Notes and Teen People.
This little sister happens to have a very influential friend who IS a reader. She has shared plenty of good books in an attempt to share her love of reading. Recently, little sister has been doing some reading. It has been strange to walk into her room in the evenings and see her READING. To see this child reading a book, with no pictures, is exciting for me.
Last night, little sister could not wait to tell me about her purchase that day. Was it a new Vera Bradly? I wondered. A cute new coffee cup? A new flavor of coffee beans?
Nope. None of the above.
She bought a BOOK! With her own money. To read. From the bookstore in which she works. (it may seem odd a non-reader works in a bookstore - but it is right beside the coffee shop)
My first thought was that this precious daughter of mine had found Karen Kingsbury.
Nope.
Her first ever book purchase was...
How To Talk To Your Catholic Friends and Family.
And she can hardly wait for her next purchase....
How To Talk To Your Jewish Friends and Family.
Could it be possible that we would have two Theology majors?
The big sister loved to read. She has been reading since before she could talk! She read fiction. She read non-fiction. When there was nothing at all to read - she read the Bible. Pretty intense for a 12 year old. Today - she always has several books going at once. She loves fiction. She loves non-fiction. She loves the Bible.
The little sister hated reading. Despised it, actually. She CAN read. I have caught her reading Cliff Notes and Teen People.
This little sister happens to have a very influential friend who IS a reader. She has shared plenty of good books in an attempt to share her love of reading. Recently, little sister has been doing some reading. It has been strange to walk into her room in the evenings and see her READING. To see this child reading a book, with no pictures, is exciting for me.
Last night, little sister could not wait to tell me about her purchase that day. Was it a new Vera Bradly? I wondered. A cute new coffee cup? A new flavor of coffee beans?
Nope. None of the above.
She bought a BOOK! With her own money. To read. From the bookstore in which she works. (it may seem odd a non-reader works in a bookstore - but it is right beside the coffee shop)
My first thought was that this precious daughter of mine had found Karen Kingsbury.
Nope.
Her first ever book purchase was...
How To Talk To Your Catholic Friends and Family.
And she can hardly wait for her next purchase....
How To Talk To Your Jewish Friends and Family.
Could it be possible that we would have two Theology majors?
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Juror #5
Here has how the day played out.
I was at the courthouse by quarter till 9:00.
I met two new people. Life is strange that way. It is amazing the connections you can have with people if you just give it a chance.
My name was drawn out of the hat at quarter till 10:00.
After question/answer time - none of which pertained to me ( I couldn't even raise my hand to "Who watches CSI?") I was picked as juror #5.
At quarter till 12:00 we were dismissed for lunch.
We were all settled in the jury room by 1:00 sharp.
The bailiff told us the fridge was stocked with water bottles and pop. She offered to make us fresh coffee. I found it hard to believe that nobody was interested in that offer but me. That is when it occurred to me that I had no caffeine the entire morning. My head immediately started pounding.
We waited. And waited. We talked about McDonald's. (weird) We waited. We wondered if this was a repeat of the morning wait.
AND THEN! The Judge came into our room. With no robe. Which I found odd. Everything had been so formal up to this point. What the heck was going on.
He said that he had bad news and good news. The bad news was that there would be no trial. The defendant had decided to plead "guilty." The good news was that we all got to go home.
He said it is rare that the defendant pleads after the jury has been picked. He reassured us that we had done our job. The defendant must have gotten scared after seeing the reality of the jury.
I have to say that, after I was picked, I was looking forward to my spot in the jury box.
When it was all said and done I'm really bummed about the way the day turned out.
I was at the courthouse by quarter till 9:00.
I met two new people. Life is strange that way. It is amazing the connections you can have with people if you just give it a chance.
My name was drawn out of the hat at quarter till 10:00.
After question/answer time - none of which pertained to me ( I couldn't even raise my hand to "Who watches CSI?") I was picked as juror #5.
At quarter till 12:00 we were dismissed for lunch.
We were all settled in the jury room by 1:00 sharp.
The bailiff told us the fridge was stocked with water bottles and pop. She offered to make us fresh coffee. I found it hard to believe that nobody was interested in that offer but me. That is when it occurred to me that I had no caffeine the entire morning. My head immediately started pounding.
We waited. And waited. We talked about McDonald's. (weird) We waited. We wondered if this was a repeat of the morning wait.
AND THEN! The Judge came into our room. With no robe. Which I found odd. Everything had been so formal up to this point. What the heck was going on.
He said that he had bad news and good news. The bad news was that there would be no trial. The defendant had decided to plead "guilty." The good news was that we all got to go home.
He said it is rare that the defendant pleads after the jury has been picked. He reassured us that we had done our job. The defendant must have gotten scared after seeing the reality of the jury.
I have to say that, after I was picked, I was looking forward to my spot in the jury box.
When it was all said and done I'm really bummed about the way the day turned out.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
I've been published!
I LOVE Gooseberry Patch cookbooks. I have several. But my new favorite is the one that was in my mailbox, today.It has my recipe in it.
Actually, it isn't my recipe at all. But that's beside the point.
(Thanks -Sarah! I think I owe you a cookbook.)
More valuable than Silver & Gold
Randy came home from his nursing home visit and pulled Abe's stocking cap out of his pocket.
Apparently, (surprise! surprise!) Abe had left it during his last visit.
Grandpa had been sleeping with it underneath his pillow ever since. For safe keeping.
He did not want anyone to steal it.
What will he do when Abe leaves his coat there this week?
Apparently, (surprise! surprise!) Abe had left it during his last visit.
Grandpa had been sleeping with it underneath his pillow ever since. For safe keeping.
He did not want anyone to steal it.
What will he do when Abe leaves his coat there this week?
Ghosts from Happy Meals Past.
Conversation with Abe - while I'm trying to get him to sleep....
Him: Why do I have such weird things in my room?
Me: It is YOUR room and these are YOUR things. What is weird?
He points to his nightstand, which is piled high with trinkets. Lots of junk that I have tried to put away but it mysteriously reappears.
Him: Like that Halloween toy from an old McDonald's Happy Meal. You drag stuff out that is from Abby and Annie's past. You get stuff out of the attic and try and give it to me. AND you want me to help you dig it out.
It's CREEPY! Please stop trying to give me their old stuff!
Him: Why do I have such weird things in my room?
Me: It is YOUR room and these are YOUR things. What is weird?
He points to his nightstand, which is piled high with trinkets. Lots of junk that I have tried to put away but it mysteriously reappears.
Him: Like that Halloween toy from an old McDonald's Happy Meal. You drag stuff out that is from Abby and Annie's past. You get stuff out of the attic and try and give it to me. AND you want me to help you dig it out.
It's CREEPY! Please stop trying to give me their old stuff!
Friday, January 18, 2008
My Very Own Bucket List
I really am a list maker. A goal setter. And middle aged. Here are 10 things I would like to do in my life before it's too late.
- Live in a barn - Not just any ole horse barn. But a barn that we have redone into the most amazing space. Open. Airy. Lofty. With a view of sunsets.
- Get hair extensions - I have always wanted long hair but my hair has not wanted to be long. I think I would LOVE these!
- Have a really fun job - Something that doesn't involve numbers or adding machine tape. Something that I am passionate about. Something that makes me smile.
- Have a 6 pack - What can I say? Three kids later and I have a lot of extra skin. TMI.
- Get Lasik eye surgery - I've worn glasses or contact lenses since I was 12. I'm ready to wake up in the morning and see my world.
- Take a trip with my husband - Just the two of us. In 24 years of marriage, we haven't taken a trip without our kids for longer than 1 night. I want us to take a really awesome trip. At least 2 nights away!
- Take a trip with my girls - Just the three of us. Just to hang out and see movies. Eat great food. Massages. Nails. Maybe some shopping.
- Bake Bread - I know this shouldn't be a big deal except I just can't do it. It doesn't ever turn out right.
- Finish my kids baby books - However, by this point I have totally forgot what they got for their 2nd Christmas and their 4th Birthday.
- Live downtown - In a loft apartment. Above a store. Somewhere I have to walk by a coffee shop and then up lots of stairs to get home. With views of the city that are never ending. Somewhere with no grass to mow or leaves to rake or snow to blow.
- Be a cook at a summer camp.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Do not pass go. Do not collect $200.
I am to report to jury duty on the same day as my haircut.
Can you say "contempt of court?"
Can you say "contempt of court?"
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Why?
Why is it that I would fight tooth and nail for my kids? That their safety and protection is my main focus. Now and always.
Why is it that I would put their hunger before mine? That I love spending time with them and hearing their voices? That I value their thoughts and feelings.
Why is it that my Grandma, and my mother, and my friends and my sister-in-law's are all the same kind of mothers? They are like me. I am like them. We each do things our own ways but the love and protection of our children is always first and foremost.
Why is it that there is a little guy, like my own - in the second grade, down the street, who has been "locked out" of his house several times in the past month? That he wonders the streets. In the cold without a coat. In the dark without adult protection? Why doesn't anybody look for him at supper time? Or when it gets dark and he is not home? Why do they wait and call hours after the last time they have seen him?
Why does he comes here? Why does this make me nervous? Why is it my job? Why my house?
Why do I feel so guilty about sending him home but not guilty enough to say "stay longer"?
I want his very own family to miss him. To treat him like he is 7.
Why doesn't his mother just step up to the plate and be a MOM?
Because every single little boy deserves a mommy to love and protect them and be so proud of them.
Why can't he have that?
Why is it that I would put their hunger before mine? That I love spending time with them and hearing their voices? That I value their thoughts and feelings.
Why is it that my Grandma, and my mother, and my friends and my sister-in-law's are all the same kind of mothers? They are like me. I am like them. We each do things our own ways but the love and protection of our children is always first and foremost.
Why is it that there is a little guy, like my own - in the second grade, down the street, who has been "locked out" of his house several times in the past month? That he wonders the streets. In the cold without a coat. In the dark without adult protection? Why doesn't anybody look for him at supper time? Or when it gets dark and he is not home? Why do they wait and call hours after the last time they have seen him?
Why does he comes here? Why does this make me nervous? Why is it my job? Why my house?
Why do I feel so guilty about sending him home but not guilty enough to say "stay longer"?
I want his very own family to miss him. To treat him like he is 7.
Why doesn't his mother just step up to the plate and be a MOM?
Because every single little boy deserves a mommy to love and protect them and be so proud of them.
Why can't he have that?
A new day
I had a great evening with my "girls" last night. We get together weekly to share life and pray for each other. Those prayers go a long way. We think we are two outgoing introverts and an ingoing extrovert (Rhonda- what are you for sure?) This makes me smile.
It's snowing today. I'm so ready for Spring but there is something so beautiful and refreshing and still about new snow.
Randy and I are taking Abe for coffee this afternoon.
Annie called and is bringing me lunch. What a sweet surprise.
My brother and sister-in-law are coming over for an adult only Wii party, tonight. I can't wait!
The week is officially 1/2 over. Coasting to the weekend.
Sarah has an important Doctor's appointment Friday. I am waiting patiently to hear about her health maybe (fingers crossed) found out who they are!
I have missed my coffee buddy. We have lots to catch up on Saturday morning.
We are celebrating a special 2nd birthday in our family on Saturday. I get to eat my mom's sloppy joe's and have a piece of Patty Cake!
It's snowing today. I'm so ready for Spring but there is something so beautiful and refreshing and still about new snow.
Randy and I are taking Abe for coffee this afternoon.
Annie called and is bringing me lunch. What a sweet surprise.
My brother and sister-in-law are coming over for an adult only Wii party, tonight. I can't wait!
The week is officially 1/2 over. Coasting to the weekend.
Sarah has an important Doctor's appointment Friday. I am waiting patiently to hear about her health maybe (fingers crossed) found out who they are!
I have missed my coffee buddy. We have lots to catch up on Saturday morning.
We are celebrating a special 2nd birthday in our family on Saturday. I get to eat my mom's sloppy joe's and have a piece of Patty Cake!
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
140 over 99
- The drivers seat on the blazer is stuck. Stuck way back for a tall driver. Obviously, this causes problems for me. I am lacking in the long legs department.
- Because of this - Abe and I RAN to school. Me in clogs, with my short legs. He was still tardy.
- Also, because of this - Monty, bless his heart, came and picked me up for work.
- We looked at a house, yesterday. With a realtor. Not just an open house, which is what we usually do. Crazy? Yes we are.
- Work relationships are stressful. It has given me a tremendous head-ache.
- Everybody (and I mean EVERYBODY) I work with is sick. And we don't have sick leave. Which means - they are all hovering around me - Sick.
- Who knows how I am getting home today. I know how I DON'T want to get home.
- All of this leads to my high blood pressure. Which is becoming an issue.
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Good Times Great Wolf
We finally went on our (annual - we hope) family Christmas trip. If you remember, we had to postpone our trip in December because of a horrible ice storm.
Well, the trip was worth the wait. We have memories that will last forever. Way better than opening up tons of gifts on Christmas Day!
Here are just a few highlights of our adventure:
Winter Wonderland
My Family
Say Cheese! For the camera just not on the burgers.
Major decisions being made right here!
They're not heavy - They're my brothers!
Well, the trip was worth the wait. We have memories that will last forever. Way better than opening up tons of gifts on Christmas Day!
Here are just a few highlights of our adventure:
- Swim trunks - down to the knees (of course this had to happen to Uncle Chad - because he has an issue with anybody seeing his privates!)
- Cheeseburger in Paradise (Hold the cheese, please!)
- Healthy eating in '08. (Does that literally mean a side order of broccoli?)
- The girl's shopping trip (Trouser jeans in petite!)
- Soy Chai Latte (Where's the Chai??!)
- Things forgotten AT the Lodge (Dad's swim trunks & Abe's treasured necklace)
- Adult only Hot Tub
- Swimming without the kids! - what this really means is all of us big people living it up on the waterslides.
- Waterslides - (in every possible combination on the rafts - including 3 grown men!)
- Tears - Abe. 3 times in 24 hours
- Shanyn winning 250 tickets in one try at the arcade
- Boys shopping trip to Cabela's
- Eyes swollen shut from the chlorine
- "It smells like rotten hamburgers in here!" (Sam has acquired the nose of a grown woman pregnant with twins)
- The one thing we wish we could change- Aunt Sarah and Henry had to stay behind (Doctor prescribed foot massages and bon-bons)
Winter Wonderland
My Family
Say Cheese! For the camera just not on the burgers.
Major decisions being made right here!
They're not heavy - They're my brothers!Friday, January 11, 2008
Booty 10
Why my booty is so big!
- I went at least three (GASP!) weeks without walking. Ice. Snow. More ice. More snow. And people don't shovel their stinkin' sidewalks.
- Cream. In my coffee. I hate black.
- White Chocolate Mocha with Caramel. Whipping cream, please. and drizzle caramel over that, too, please. In a glass mug, please. My fave. Annie makes them the very best.
- Girl Scout Cookies - I know a couple of really cute girl scouts. And they are in season.
- Hot Tamales - I got a big bag from Santa - in my stocking.
- I am short. This excuse works for multiple issues. Mental and physical.
- I let my Y membership go when I started working more hours.
- Sweet Tea. I grew up drinking sweet tea. Gave it up for years. I love it once more.
- My husband likes big butts?!?! (see blog below)
- Fresh, homemade cinnamon rolls - every Saturday morning. Sometimes we are good and share but lately - we have both been indulgent. My bad!
Like Father Like Son
I walked by our beautiful old beveled full length mirror in the front room and proceeded directly to the kitchen.
This is what I said:
"RANDY! Why didn't you tell me my butt has gotten so big!!"
He burst out laughing. And he laughed and laughed.
This was his reply:
"You do not have a big booty."
The speech bubble above his head read this:
"Woman! YOU are crazy if YOU think I'm going to tell YOU that YOU have a big butt."
I marched directly to the basement steps and hollered at Abe to come up.
He ran upstairs, surely thinking the house was on fire, and I asked him this:
"Do you think that my behind has gotten bigger than it used to be?"
Without missing a beat he said this:
"Mamma - you are skinny and beautiful!"
I saw a speech bubble above his head that said this:
"My daddy has already clued me on what to say to girls like you when they ask those silly, stupid questions."
This is what I said:
"RANDY! Why didn't you tell me my butt has gotten so big!!"
He burst out laughing. And he laughed and laughed.
This was his reply:
"You do not have a big booty."
The speech bubble above his head read this:
"Woman! YOU are crazy if YOU think I'm going to tell YOU that YOU have a big butt."
I marched directly to the basement steps and hollered at Abe to come up.
He ran upstairs, surely thinking the house was on fire, and I asked him this:
"Do you think that my behind has gotten bigger than it used to be?"
Without missing a beat he said this:
"Mamma - you are skinny and beautiful!"
I saw a speech bubble above his head that said this:
"My daddy has already clued me on what to say to girls like you when they ask those silly, stupid questions."
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Willie
I see lots of purple in my future.
The first college application has been sent (finally!) and it looks like a decision has been made.
Go Wildcats!
...and to all of you who don't have college funds started for your darling children, RUN - don't walk to get one started today! Believe me, Life comes at you FAST!
The first college application has been sent (finally!) and it looks like a decision has been made.
Go Wildcats!
...and to all of you who don't have college funds started for your darling children, RUN - don't walk to get one started today! Believe me, Life comes at you FAST!
itch
I hate to even say this out loud.
....but Sarah recently went to look at a house for sale and then I got on-line to look at the pictures.
It is a house that would work great for our family. It is in a soda cap (what Abby called a Culdesac when she was small). Two fireplaces. Sunroom. Two bedrooms up and two in the basement. Perfect for my out of town family and a girl home from college. Attached garage. In addition it needs a total makeover (which about put me over the edge three years ago- but today - Hey! I'm rarin' to go)
I already have the entire house remodeled in my head. Espresso hardwood floors throughout. White woodwork. White cabinets. Stainless steel. Granite counter top. Stone floor in the sunroom. Pit group (which would actually fit) in the basement. yada yada yada.
Thank goodness it already has an offer!
The weird thing is that I thought the house we are in now would be my forever house. I love my house. But really - it is too much. Too much to heat. Too much to cool. Too much space. Too much yard work.
The thought of a ranch style (did I really say that??!!) is looking really good about now.
Next year it will be the three of us. The three Musketeers, I call us. It is time to start thinking smaller. Less is more. I think we would be more comfortable in different space.
We would not make a change until Abe heads to Middle School. I love his school and I love our neighborhood.
But in a few short years who knows where we will end up! By then - Abe will be able to paint!
....but Sarah recently went to look at a house for sale and then I got on-line to look at the pictures.
It is a house that would work great for our family. It is in a soda cap (what Abby called a Culdesac when she was small). Two fireplaces. Sunroom. Two bedrooms up and two in the basement. Perfect for my out of town family and a girl home from college. Attached garage. In addition it needs a total makeover (which about put me over the edge three years ago- but today - Hey! I'm rarin' to go)
I already have the entire house remodeled in my head. Espresso hardwood floors throughout. White woodwork. White cabinets. Stainless steel. Granite counter top. Stone floor in the sunroom. Pit group (which would actually fit) in the basement. yada yada yada.
Thank goodness it already has an offer!
The weird thing is that I thought the house we are in now would be my forever house. I love my house. But really - it is too much. Too much to heat. Too much to cool. Too much space. Too much yard work.
The thought of a ranch style (did I really say that??!!) is looking really good about now.
Next year it will be the three of us. The three Musketeers, I call us. It is time to start thinking smaller. Less is more. I think we would be more comfortable in different space.
We would not make a change until Abe heads to Middle School. I love his school and I love our neighborhood.
But in a few short years who knows where we will end up! By then - Abe will be able to paint!
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Praying Expectantly
Does God change his mind? Is there power in prayer?
These are some questions I have been mulling over the past few months.
At first, my answer is no. God does not change his mind. How could He. Why would He. He is all knowing. He knows what is best. For me. For my family. For each of us. Why would I need God to change HIS mind on anything. Haven't I learned to trust Him. To trust His ways? Am I not to always trust His Plan?
Is there power in prayer? YES. Absolutely. That has been proven time and time again. So unless those "answered prayers" happen to align with God's will does that mean that they weren't really answered at all. Or are there times when God does change His mind?
I had a phone call at 3:22 this morning. This is not at all unusual anymore. The voice on the other end, however, was not who I was expecting.
As I snuggled next to Sam, I prayed.
I prayed for safe travel. I prayed for Chad. I prayed for Sarah. I prayed for baby A. I prayed for baby B. I prayed for the nurses. I prayed for the Doctor. I prayed for the big brothers sound asleep, oblivious to all going on in their safe little world. I prayed that I would just fall asleep.
And then I questioned my prayers.
And then I wondered about the motivation behind my prayers.
And then I wondered about God's plan.
I was relieved when I finally got the call that both of the babies had heartbeats and they even appeared to be waving to their mommy and daddy.
I will keep praying for the newest little cousins.
Expecting them to continue growing to be strong and healthy.
Expecting God to hear our prayers and see things our way.
And if He has other plans - I will hold onto the hope that God would surely change His mind.
These are some questions I have been mulling over the past few months.
At first, my answer is no. God does not change his mind. How could He. Why would He. He is all knowing. He knows what is best. For me. For my family. For each of us. Why would I need God to change HIS mind on anything. Haven't I learned to trust Him. To trust His ways? Am I not to always trust His Plan?
Is there power in prayer? YES. Absolutely. That has been proven time and time again. So unless those "answered prayers" happen to align with God's will does that mean that they weren't really answered at all. Or are there times when God does change His mind?
I had a phone call at 3:22 this morning. This is not at all unusual anymore. The voice on the other end, however, was not who I was expecting.
As I snuggled next to Sam, I prayed.
I prayed for safe travel. I prayed for Chad. I prayed for Sarah. I prayed for baby A. I prayed for baby B. I prayed for the nurses. I prayed for the Doctor. I prayed for the big brothers sound asleep, oblivious to all going on in their safe little world. I prayed that I would just fall asleep.
And then I questioned my prayers.
And then I wondered about the motivation behind my prayers.
And then I wondered about God's plan.
I was relieved when I finally got the call that both of the babies had heartbeats and they even appeared to be waving to their mommy and daddy.
I will keep praying for the newest little cousins.
Expecting them to continue growing to be strong and healthy.
Expecting God to hear our prayers and see things our way.
And if He has other plans - I will hold onto the hope that God would surely change His mind.
Monday, January 7, 2008
fortune cookie
I called Braums at 8:00 this morning to check and see if there was a boys coat in the lost and found. The girl told me no. No coat.
Don't ask me why, but I called again at 2:45. On my way home from work. The boy (sounded young) said there had been a coat found last night. A boys coat. Not camo, though. I thought I would stop by and look. Just reassure myself before purchasing another one. Nope. Not there anymore. Anyways, he thought it had been there a couple of days.
Didn't he just tell me last night?
Randy came home and picked up Abe. They were going to look for the coat. In person. They were headed to Braums and then church. Final stop would be Wal-mart to purchase a new one.
Don't ask me why, but I called Braums once more. I asked the same boy (still sounded young) if they had found the coat he could not locate 15 minutes earlier. Nope. No coat.
Randy and Abe went anyways. This time they talked to an older lady. She knew exactly where the coat was. Not just any coat. A camo coat. Not just any camo coat. Abe's camo coat. The one that is paid for. By mom and dad. The best coat ever!
YEA!!
And come July - I predict boy girl twins!
Don't ask me why, but I called again at 2:45. On my way home from work. The boy (sounded young) said there had been a coat found last night. A boys coat. Not camo, though. I thought I would stop by and look. Just reassure myself before purchasing another one. Nope. Not there anymore. Anyways, he thought it had been there a couple of days.
Didn't he just tell me last night?
Randy came home and picked up Abe. They were going to look for the coat. In person. They were headed to Braums and then church. Final stop would be Wal-mart to purchase a new one.
Don't ask me why, but I called Braums once more. I asked the same boy (still sounded young) if they had found the coat he could not locate 15 minutes earlier. Nope. No coat.
Randy and Abe went anyways. This time they talked to an older lady. She knew exactly where the coat was. Not just any coat. A camo coat. Not just any camo coat. Abe's camo coat. The one that is paid for. By mom and dad. The best coat ever!
YEA!!
And come July - I predict boy girl twins!
The most wonderful time of the year....NOT
I do all accounting for two companies. In two different states.
That means all accounts receivable. accounts payable. payroll. payroll taxes. (two states-remember?) payroll tax reports (two states but we also have an employee here who lives and works out of another state). commission reports.W-2's. sales tax. scheduling freight. IFTA reports. IRP filings. past due collections. balancing 3 checking accounts. 4 money market accounts. What have I forgotten? Something, I'm sure.
The only thing I don't do is make the coffee. I don't have a problem drinking it, though!
My current crisis is if we are an exempt for hire carrier or private carrier. I thought I knew the difference but apparently I do not. Nor does anyone else I work with.
And every year January seems to follow December. Which is completely chaotic for me.
Which may be the reason when people walk by my office they think I'm not here. The stack of papers in my basket is so high I can't even see over the top of it and they can't see me behind it.
Good thing we got some new big Feist phone books. I'm going to stack them on my chair (reminds of going to Grandma's house and sitting on Sears catalogs - before booster seats) so people can see me once again.
That means all accounts receivable. accounts payable. payroll. payroll taxes. (two states-remember?) payroll tax reports (two states but we also have an employee here who lives and works out of another state). commission reports.W-2's. sales tax. scheduling freight. IFTA reports. IRP filings. past due collections. balancing 3 checking accounts. 4 money market accounts. What have I forgotten? Something, I'm sure.
The only thing I don't do is make the coffee. I don't have a problem drinking it, though!
My current crisis is if we are an exempt for hire carrier or private carrier. I thought I knew the difference but apparently I do not. Nor does anyone else I work with.
And every year January seems to follow December. Which is completely chaotic for me.
Which may be the reason when people walk by my office they think I'm not here. The stack of papers in my basket is so high I can't even see over the top of it and they can't see me behind it.
Good thing we got some new big Feist phone books. I'm going to stack them on my chair (reminds of going to Grandma's house and sitting on Sears catalogs - before booster seats) so people can see me once again.
Monday Monday
This is the first Monday I've worked in three weeks.
So I was already grumpy about having to get up early this morning and get Abe up and at 'em and get out myself. So what did I do? I just laid in bed. And that made us run really late.
And then Abe could not find his coat. At this point in time it has still not been located.
So, if it is not found, he will take his own money (he has quite a bit stashed) and we will go shopping for a new coat after school. He was none too happy about this when I dropped him off.
He really comes by his forgetfulness naturally. He is just like his daddy and his big sister (I can't even tell you how many times she forgot her violin).
And then mama bear who is completely intolerant of it all.
Poor little guy.
So I was already grumpy about having to get up early this morning and get Abe up and at 'em and get out myself. So what did I do? I just laid in bed. And that made us run really late.
And then Abe could not find his coat. At this point in time it has still not been located.
So, if it is not found, he will take his own money (he has quite a bit stashed) and we will go shopping for a new coat after school. He was none too happy about this when I dropped him off.
He really comes by his forgetfulness naturally. He is just like his daddy and his big sister (I can't even tell you how many times she forgot her violin).
And then mama bear who is completely intolerant of it all.
Poor little guy.
Friday, January 4, 2008
Twinkies part II
Here's the deal. I can't tell which is Randy. I'm really hoping he knows and I will get back with you!
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Oh I wish I were a Twinkie, too!
For some reason Annie has started calling the cousin twins the "Twinkies."
There happens to be an entire bulletin board of old pictures of Ricky and Randy at the nursing home. Last night, when we were at the nursing home, she commented on all of the pictures of the "Twinkies." We had great fun picking out our Daddy from those pictures. (can you pick out Randy?)
And then, this morning, Abe said this:
"All I want is a Twinkie of my own. Somebody just like me to hang out with."
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
2008
Here is a list of self improvements for the coming year. No particular order.
- Reading - My Bible and other stuff. I am a reader by nature and haven't taken the time.
- Pray - more often and more expectantly. And less selfishly.
- Early to bed & early to rise - I am a night owl and I'm not a spring chicken. So the lack of sleep is catching up with me. I'd also like to get up an hour earlier to get some quiet time in.
- Color Blind- I want to be OK with my fair skin in the spring and summer. Even though I look 10 pounds lighter with some color.
- Bible Study - It's been years since I went to a weekly study. I'd like to jump back in again. It has to be evening or late afternoon. I would love a 4:00 - 5:00 study. Or 8:30 in the evening. Not on Wednesday, however.
- Hospitable - I would like to entertain. That was the plan when I bought the Mennonite table. That was something like 6 or 7 years ago. That was also the plan when we moved into this house. That was 3 years ago. Can you make a non-social person more social? We'll try!
- Act my Age - I want to not cry like a baby when Annie graduates high school and goes to college. It will be easier than with Abby because I know she WILL be coming home. Often. Even if she goes a few hours from home. And we can visit her. I did not have children with the thought that they would move hours and miles away and I would never see them. I put too much time and effort forth for that! I enjoy each of my kids and enjoy spending time with them. I want them to come home! At least for a little while.
- To be on the same page as my adult kids-even when it's not my page - I want to be OK with the fact that I may only see Abby 5 days (if I'm lucky) a year. This has been a major adjustment. I still feel the vacancy.....
- Contentment - I wish to be satisfied with what I have and not crave what I don't have or may never have. I go in phases with this. Now has not been a good time for me. The Green Eyed Monster has been living within for longer than I would like to admit.
- Comparison Shopping - I am so tired of comparing myself to others. My hair (silly, I know) My height. My education. My stay-at-home status. Again, this has been harder as of late.
Life is good and I expect great things this year, as well. I have been blessed by the most wonderful family (immediate and extended) and also the best friends in the whole wide world. Thank you all for sharing the ups and downs of life with me.
Have a great 2008!
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