Correcting Your Child in Love: A Biblical Guide for Loving Discipline, by Abner C. Sumrall
I don't read very many parenting books, but we'd heard the author speak and I wanted to read the book. As is generally the case with marriage and parenting books, not all of the author's personal examples will work for everyone. But there are lots of Bible verses included, which I love, and all talk of discipline is wrapped up in the importance of a close relationship with your kids.
The Transforming Word: Discovering the Power and Provision of the Bible, by Tony EvansThis book has been on our bookshelf for a while and I'd never read it. In fact, I didn't know where it came from. Turns out it was from friends we met in college and they gave it to us almost six years ago. Weird. Weirder still is that neither of us have any recollection of them giving it to us. Anyway, I tend to get kinda lazy and apathetic about reading my Bible, so this book was a good challenge for me to not take it for granted.
p.57, We often say to God, in our actions if not always in our words, "Show me what You want me to do first, and then I'll decide whether or not I want to do it." Of course, there is nothing wrong with asking God to show you His will. But He never reveals His will so we can discuss and debate it. God is into obedience, not just presenting options.
p.176, The most important thing I can say to this is that the Word is alive and active, even when it doesn't seem so to us. The problem may be that we are in a winter season in our lives in which it appears that everything is dead.
If you are in a winter season right now, don't forget that even though the leaves fall off the trees and the grass turns brown in the winter ... the appearance of death is just that - only an appearance. When spring comes, those trees and lawns that seemed to be dead and gone last winter will burst into life.
In the same way, the Bible does not lose its life. You may be looking at your Bible today and seeing no signs of life, but be assured that the life is there. The best thing you can do is stay in the Word until the winter is past and God's revelation bursts forth with new life in your heart.
p.205, (This is whole chapter, The Bible Brings Spiritual Blessings, was great.) What does it mean, then, to be blessed or to receive a blessing in the biblical sense? Here is a simple definition: A blessing is the God-given capacity to enjoy His goodness in your life.
The Year of Miss Agnes, by Kirkpatrick Hill
One of my favorite school books and I got to read it to Devon this time. Set in Alaska, it's a fictional story of Miss Agness, a teacher who comes to a village to teach for a year. It turns out to be the best year the students have ever had, one that's life-changing for some of them.
Simply from Scratch, by Alicia Bessette
I read about this one in All You magazine and I loved it. I wouldn't be surprised a lick if it was turned into a movie at some point. It's perfect chick flick material. In a nutshell, it's got a woman who's husband died on a Hurricane Katrina relief trip, a motherless girl who's obsessed with a TV chef, a group of friends who have known each other since they were kids, and a little bit of every emotion under the sun.
Understood Betsy, by Dorothy Canfield Fisher
This was a school book we read for the second time. Elizabeth is a young girl who lives with some very uptight, fearful aunts. Betsy is the girl she becomes when she's sent to live with the relatives she'd always heard horrible things about. Excellent book, though it has a slow start.
The Year of Living Biblically: One Man's Humble Quest to Follow the Bible as Literally as Possible, by A.J. Jacobs
This has been on my list for a couple years, after seeing it at Powell's. Let me just say that I love the way this guy writes. He's hysterical! We don't land on the same page spiritually, but I think he was pretty objective about his year - sharing his doubts and questions, as well as the things he viewed as positive, admitting that there's no way he could be completely balanced in all things biblical. Interesting and fun book.
p.144, You'd think Jonah would be happy with God's forgiveness, but he's actually angry. He wanted the evil ones smote. / God says, "Do you do well to be angry?"
Jonah doesn't answer but goes off to the outskirts of Ninevah to sulk. /
In other words, get some perspective.
So that's what I try to do. I ask myself the question God asked Jonah. "Do you do well to be angry?" I ask it out loud to myself. No, I don't, I answer. So I got elbowed aside by a strangely competitive soup kitchen volunteer. The world will not end. /
There is such a thing as biblically acceptable anger - righteous indignation. Moses gets angry at the Israelites for worshiping a false idol. Jesus gets angry at the money changers for profaning the Temple. The key is to pump your righteous anger and mute your petty resentment.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Saturday, February 26, 2011
THE FLOWER GIRL
It's been a long, fun day! We took a bunch of pictures, but unfortunately funky lighting, the fakey smile (which she also had in all/most of the professional shots), and constant movement meant we have very few pictures to share with you. Bummer, but at least we got to be there to see it all in person.
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Let me just tell you that Naomi was a stinkin' doll!! Oh my! She'd nailed our "walk a little, drop a little" mantra at the rehearsal, but today she only dropped three or four petals. Why? Because she was downright giddy. She was grins and giggles the entire time she walked down the aisle, waving to people along the way. It's like she was a princess in a pageant, not a girl in someone else's wedding. So cute!!!
Anyway, I'm sure Sara Shearer Photography got some good shots of Naomi walking down the aisle, but I don't expect to see those til after Christian and Julie see them. Maybe someone else will have some to share with us. Meanwhile, here's the best we've got.
Anyway, I'm sure Sara Shearer Photography got some good shots of Naomi walking down the aisle, but I don't expect to see those til after Christian and Julie see them. Maybe someone else will have some to share with us. Meanwhile, here's the best we've got.
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Ready to head to the church.
Goofing off with petals before the wedding.
Beaming at the back of the aisle.
Giggling her way down.
The best shot of the day, which tells you something about the pictures we got, was actually taken before the ceremony.
Friday, February 25, 2011
A MELTDOWN & A GOOD HUSBAND
There's something in my life that's really frustrating. However, there's nothing I can do to change the situation, so I just grin and bear it. Evidently I wasn't bearing it as well as I thought I was. The proverbial last straw came falling down and broke this camel's back last night. Oh my. It was ugly!
At first I was upset and trying not to take it out on my family. I just told them I was grumpy about something and that I was trying not to flip my lid. A little while later I could feel the pressure mounting. My blood was boiling. I ticked off. Super ticked!
I walked into our room to try and pull myself together. I stood in the middle of my room, staring out the window and taking deep breaths. Then Tim came in and closed the door, then just stood there. Without warning, I let loose. It started as calmly voicing my frustration, then I got louder and more angry. Then words came spewing from my mouth that aren't part of my normal conversation. I sounded like a stereotypical truck driver or sailor. It was bad!! Eventually the profane tirade morphed into me bursting into tears. Sobbing and ranting is a lovely combination, let me tell you.
Tim was perfect. He never said a word. Not one. He didn't tell me I was over-reacting. He didn't say my feelings were justified. He didn't suggest ways of dealing with the situation. He didn't tell me I had a foul mouth. He just stood there and listened. After I started sobbing hysterically he just wrapped his arms around me and let me cry and rant. Silently. Eventually all that sobbing caused me to get a runny nose, so I broke free to take care of that. Then I was fine and Tim went to clean up the dinner mess.
The crying was a great physical release. The venting, though it should have been ... uh ... more G-rated, was a great emotional release. I guess I was due for a full-blown meltdown. Tim, on the other hand, wasn't due for any of the drama, but he dealt with it like a champ.
We did talk about the situation later in the evening, when I was feeling a little more rational, and I'll be fine. The situation will remain frustrating, but such is life. I may, however, need to have a mini-vent session with Tim occasionally to spare him from another huge meltdown.
At first I was upset and trying not to take it out on my family. I just told them I was grumpy about something and that I was trying not to flip my lid. A little while later I could feel the pressure mounting. My blood was boiling. I ticked off. Super ticked!
I walked into our room to try and pull myself together. I stood in the middle of my room, staring out the window and taking deep breaths. Then Tim came in and closed the door, then just stood there. Without warning, I let loose. It started as calmly voicing my frustration, then I got louder and more angry. Then words came spewing from my mouth that aren't part of my normal conversation. I sounded like a stereotypical truck driver or sailor. It was bad!! Eventually the profane tirade morphed into me bursting into tears. Sobbing and ranting is a lovely combination, let me tell you.
Tim was perfect. He never said a word. Not one. He didn't tell me I was over-reacting. He didn't say my feelings were justified. He didn't suggest ways of dealing with the situation. He didn't tell me I had a foul mouth. He just stood there and listened. After I started sobbing hysterically he just wrapped his arms around me and let me cry and rant. Silently. Eventually all that sobbing caused me to get a runny nose, so I broke free to take care of that. Then I was fine and Tim went to clean up the dinner mess.
The crying was a great physical release. The venting, though it should have been ... uh ... more G-rated, was a great emotional release. I guess I was due for a full-blown meltdown. Tim, on the other hand, wasn't due for any of the drama, but he dealt with it like a champ.
We did talk about the situation later in the evening, when I was feeling a little more rational, and I'll be fine. The situation will remain frustrating, but such is life. I may, however, need to have a mini-vent session with Tim occasionally to spare him from another huge meltdown.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
2/24/11 THANKFUL THURSDAY
I'm thankful the weather forecasters were wrong and that the snowstorm they predicted was just enough snow to make a pretty dusting, but not enough to be inconvenient.
What's one thing that you're thankful for?
What's one thing that you're thankful for?
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
FEBRUARY SYNDROME NO LONGER EXISTS
I've spoken before of February Syndrome, the time of year when I'm sick of single parenting because Tim's in his third month of officiating basketball, the kids are bouncing off the walls because nasty weather has kept them inside for weeks on end, and everyone is generally irritable and unpleasant. Well, basketball season is just about over and we've been fine. Totally fine!!
February Syndrome didn't exist the three years Tim officiated in the Rogue Valley or the first year we lived in Beaverton. It all started when he got a job in Salem. Depending on the time and location of the game, it was rarely practical or possible for him to come home between work and games. By the time a game finished, he showered and chatted about the game with the other official, and he'd driven home, it was usually 10:00 at night. He officiated three nights a week, so that meant he was gone over 15 hours on those days.
Until last Easter our church was a porta-church, which meant a school had to be turned into a church every Sunday morning and Wednesday night. Tim helped set up chairs on Wednesday nights, which meant he'd stay a little late at work and get to church early. We'd meet him there and would all get home around 9:00 at night.
Between games and church, there were four days a week that he just wasn't around and I'd be pretty fried by mid-February. Last year we decided that he wouldn't help set up on Wednesdays during basketball season, as it was too hard on the rest of us. Caring for your family trumps church ministry. That little change helped, but basketball season still wore me out.
Well, thanks to our move, Tim can now come home between work and games again. Sometimes it's for less than an hour, other times for a couple hours. It's been wonderful! I'd forgotten what a differnce it makes for the offspring to have that little dose of Daddy in the day.
Additionally, despite making himself available three nights a week, the Commissioner only gave Tim a couple JV games this year. That meant, with the exception of one week early in the season, he's only worked two games a week. Awesome to have him home that extra night each week!
Oh, there's one more thing. Tim's taught at an online school the last few years and has aways been sent to a conference the week after basketball ends. Having him gone for a week right at the end of basketball is pretty much torture for our family. Well, this year he's teaching in a different progam at the same campus, which means he won't be going to the conference. Yippee!!
Tim's last game was supposed to be tonight, but he was also assigned a game tomorrow night. The bad news? He doesn't make himself available on Wednesdays because we go to Bible study, so he'll miss church. The good news? It's a playoff game, his first one ever, and he's pretty excited.
As for me? I'm delighted that February Syndrome has left our family. Really, really, really happy about that change.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
FAMILY DAY
This was the first Saturday in quite a while with nothing going on, so I marked "Family Date" on the calendar. We ate breakfast, packed a lunch, then headed to OMSI. We spent about five hours there and had a blast. Tim doesn't usually get to join us for that type of an outing, as we usually do them during the week, so it was fun to have all 5 Ws involved.
In addition to visiting all the regular rooms, visiting Egypt, and hanging in the boys' favorite exhibit Design Zone, we also cashed in some passes for a free submarine tour. We'd never done that before and it was kinda cool. Here's what the OMSI website says about it.
"OMSI is home to the U.S. Navy's last non-nuclear, fast-attack submarine, the USS Blueback (SS-581). The Blueback was the first battle-ready class of submarines to use the teardrop hull. It was in official operation throughout the Pacific Ocean for 31 years. The USS Blueback served in the entertainment industry, too! It appeared in the hit movie The Hunt for Red October and an episode of Hawaii Five-O and has been used as a location for a Discovery Channel documentary and various commercials."
In addition to visiting all the regular rooms, visiting Egypt, and hanging in the boys' favorite exhibit Design Zone, we also cashed in some passes for a free submarine tour. We'd never done that before and it was kinda cool. Here's what the OMSI website says about it.
"OMSI is home to the U.S. Navy's last non-nuclear, fast-attack submarine, the USS Blueback (SS-581). The Blueback was the first battle-ready class of submarines to use the teardrop hull. It was in official operation throughout the Pacific Ocean for 31 years. The USS Blueback served in the entertainment industry, too! It appeared in the hit movie The Hunt for Red October and an episode of Hawaii Five-O and has been used as a location for a Discovery Channel documentary and various commercials."
The paternal and maternal parental units.
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Silas driving the sub.
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Silas with a gas mask.
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Devon in control of the sub.
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Devon wearing a gas mask.
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Naomi in a submarine bunk.
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Naomi playing in the cute outfit she picked out today.
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Totally fun day!
Friday, February 18, 2011
THE MOST _______ PERSON I KNOW
I'm going to give you list of descriptions and I want you to think about the person in your life who best fits the bill. Ready?
* Negative - can find the bad in any situation
* Controlling - it's their way or the highway
* Lazy - accomplishes a whole lot of nothing
* Whiney - constantly talks about how hard their life is
* Lying - lies outright or misleads with half-truths
* Self-centered - doesn't consider or care how their decisions affect others
* Disorganized - their life is total chaos
* Hypocritical - doesn't practice what they preach
* Bitter - dwells on past offenses
* Gossipy - always talks about one person's (usually negative) business to other people
* Arrogant - thinks they're amazing
* Rude - communicates with a lack of basic respect for others
* Critical - likes pointing out problems, but avoids resolution
* Awkward - rarely says or does the right thing in any given situation
So, were you able to think of people that consistently fit these descriptions? Does it kinda bug you just thinking about them and their negative traits? Well, guess what? God loves them. Totally and completely loves them. He loves them just as much as he loves you.
I know that and you know that, but how easily we disregard God's love for those who drive us batty or make our lives miserable. Sure, I can casually admit that God loves the whiniest person in my life, but when I really, really, really stop and think about it, then I have to change my attitude. God doesn't love them out of some sense of charitable obligation, but out of a pure heart, not thinking they are any better or worse than the next person on the block. It's a sincere love.
Can you imagine what it must be like for God to see the thoughts that run through my head when I'm frustrated with someone else's behavior, someone he truly loves? It's heart-breaking, I'm sure.
Is Susie's flaw a definite problem she needs to work on? Probably. Is John's negative trait the relatively minor fallout of bigger circumstances you know nothing about? Possibly. Will you have to remind yourself of God's love for that person on a regular basis? Maybe. Do their weaknesses suddenly become more acceptable or less bothersome when you remember how much God loves them? Not a lick. But it does change your focus and that's all you have control over.
So, the next time you catch yourself thinking "He/she is the most _____ person I know", stop and remind yourself how much God loves that person. In fact, if the setting is appropriate, say it aloud. "God loves Susie so much." "God loves John completely." Say it repeatedly.
Obviously people will continue to annoy, disappoint, hurt, and confuse you, but keep things in perspective. There are a few situations where I've done this lately, which is what prompted this post, and it makes a huge difference for me. As soon as the first negative thought crosses my mind, I try (huge emphasis on "try" because I often fail) to remind myself of God's love for the person that's bugging me. It's hard to dwell on God's love and the person's flaw at the same time. Do the negative thoughts still come? Obviously. I mean, we're talking about humanity here. It's good, though, to view problematic people through the lens of God's love, rather than the lens of how their behavior affects me.
John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave is one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
Did you get that? He loved the world. Including the people on your list of negative traits. Including you and me, flawed people who also have been, are currently, or will eventually be on someone's "most (fill in the blank with a negative trait)" list.
* Negative - can find the bad in any situation
* Controlling - it's their way or the highway
* Lazy - accomplishes a whole lot of nothing
* Whiney - constantly talks about how hard their life is
* Lying - lies outright or misleads with half-truths
* Self-centered - doesn't consider or care how their decisions affect others
* Disorganized - their life is total chaos
* Hypocritical - doesn't practice what they preach
* Bitter - dwells on past offenses
* Gossipy - always talks about one person's (usually negative) business to other people
* Arrogant - thinks they're amazing
* Rude - communicates with a lack of basic respect for others
* Critical - likes pointing out problems, but avoids resolution
* Awkward - rarely says or does the right thing in any given situation
So, were you able to think of people that consistently fit these descriptions? Does it kinda bug you just thinking about them and their negative traits? Well, guess what? God loves them. Totally and completely loves them. He loves them just as much as he loves you.
I know that and you know that, but how easily we disregard God's love for those who drive us batty or make our lives miserable. Sure, I can casually admit that God loves the whiniest person in my life, but when I really, really, really stop and think about it, then I have to change my attitude. God doesn't love them out of some sense of charitable obligation, but out of a pure heart, not thinking they are any better or worse than the next person on the block. It's a sincere love.
Can you imagine what it must be like for God to see the thoughts that run through my head when I'm frustrated with someone else's behavior, someone he truly loves? It's heart-breaking, I'm sure.
Is Susie's flaw a definite problem she needs to work on? Probably. Is John's negative trait the relatively minor fallout of bigger circumstances you know nothing about? Possibly. Will you have to remind yourself of God's love for that person on a regular basis? Maybe. Do their weaknesses suddenly become more acceptable or less bothersome when you remember how much God loves them? Not a lick. But it does change your focus and that's all you have control over.
So, the next time you catch yourself thinking "He/she is the most _____ person I know", stop and remind yourself how much God loves that person. In fact, if the setting is appropriate, say it aloud. "God loves Susie so much." "God loves John completely." Say it repeatedly.
Obviously people will continue to annoy, disappoint, hurt, and confuse you, but keep things in perspective. There are a few situations where I've done this lately, which is what prompted this post, and it makes a huge difference for me. As soon as the first negative thought crosses my mind, I try (huge emphasis on "try" because I often fail) to remind myself of God's love for the person that's bugging me. It's hard to dwell on God's love and the person's flaw at the same time. Do the negative thoughts still come? Obviously. I mean, we're talking about humanity here. It's good, though, to view problematic people through the lens of God's love, rather than the lens of how their behavior affects me.
John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave is one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
Did you get that? He loved the world. Including the people on your list of negative traits. Including you and me, flawed people who also have been, are currently, or will eventually be on someone's "most (fill in the blank with a negative trait)" list.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
MENU - SECOND HALF OF FEBRUARY 2011
Here's what we'll be eating over the next couple weeks.
BREAKFASTS
oatmeal (served with this sauce/syrup, fruit & nut bars left in crumbly form, or brown sugar, raisins, and milk) x4
Tam's granola (crockpot)
egg & potato scramble
cream cheese banana nut bread (makes two, will freeze one)
yogurt streusel muffins (double & freeze half)
new recipe
lemony sour cream muffins (double & freeze half)
easy cranberry granola (going to try it in the crockpot)
wheat germ whole wheat buttermilk pancakes (from freezer)
SNACKS
black bean dip with veggies and/or chips
chewy granola bars (didn't do these last rotation, will try subbing honey for the corn syrup)
DINNERS
leftovers x2
tacos
grilled hot dogs/potato wedges/new asparagus recipe
vegetable barley soup/whole wheat biscuits
chicken pot pie/quinoa salad with apples & almonds
creamy shells with broccoli & ham/salad
cabbage, orzo, and sausage soup/whole wheat biscuits
wedding rehearsal dinner
chicken broccoli quiche/different new asparagus recipe
best bean salad/cornbread
grilled ham & pineapple sandwiches/Cricket's coleslaw
DESSERTS
cherry chip cake from a box with store-bought chocolate funfetti frosting (Devon's baking)
banana spice cookies & ice cream
MISCELLANEOUS
taco seasoning (double batch)
BREAKFASTS
oatmeal (served with this sauce/syrup, fruit & nut bars left in crumbly form, or brown sugar, raisins, and milk) x4
Tam's granola (crockpot)
egg & potato scramble
cream cheese banana nut bread (makes two, will freeze one)
yogurt streusel muffins (double & freeze half)
new recipe
lemony sour cream muffins (double & freeze half)
easy cranberry granola (going to try it in the crockpot)
wheat germ whole wheat buttermilk pancakes (from freezer)
SNACKS
black bean dip with veggies and/or chips
chewy granola bars (didn't do these last rotation, will try subbing honey for the corn syrup)
DINNERS
leftovers x2
tacos
grilled hot dogs/potato wedges/new asparagus recipe
vegetable barley soup/whole wheat biscuits
chicken pot pie/quinoa salad with apples & almonds
creamy shells with broccoli & ham/salad
cabbage, orzo, and sausage soup/whole wheat biscuits
wedding rehearsal dinner
chicken broccoli quiche/different new asparagus recipe
best bean salad/cornbread
grilled ham & pineapple sandwiches/Cricket's coleslaw
DESSERTS
cherry chip cake from a box with store-bought chocolate funfetti frosting (Devon's baking)
banana spice cookies & ice cream
MISCELLANEOUS
taco seasoning (double batch)
2/17/11 THANKFUL THURSDAY
I'm thankful for the times I hear my kids cracking each other up. Sibling-induced belly laughs are awesome!
What's one thing that you're thankful for?
What's one thing that you're thankful for?
WANT TO DIAGNOSE TIM'S FUNKY HAND?
Tim took a shower after Bible study and called me into the bathroom to see this.
He said this ring shows up only when he's taking a shower, appears within a few minutes and lasts around 10-15 minutes. He doesn't remember when it started, but knows it's been at least a couple months. It doesn't itch, isn't raised, and there are no other symptoms. Despite the fact it looks like he just pressed on the lid of a bottle, he hadn't touched anything. Plus, you'll notice it's his right hand and he's a leftie. He said it always appears in the same area, though not always the exact same spot. Sometimes it's closer to the base of his thumb, other times closer to the bend between his thumb and pointer finger. He hasn't noticed rings in any other places and it doesn't show up while washing his hands or doing dishes.
Is that bizarre or what? Anyone have a clue as to what it could be? I'm leaning toward "bodies are weird", so Beep and I have had fun Skyping tonight about all the possibilities and ramifications. Sarcastic style, of course, cause that's how our family is.
Anyway, we're not worried. Just curious. So, if you have clue, then feel free to enlighted us!
UPDATE - The mystery has been solved. My original suspicion that he was pressing something was correct, but he didn't even realize he did it. I win.
It's true that there are no bottles in our shower that would make that shape. However, he realized today, as he paid extra close attention, that he rests his hand on the faucet and dangles his fingers under the water while waiting for it to warm up. The circle is the shape of the plug thing that you pull up for a bath, which is on top of the faucet. I don't ever rest my hand there and it never occured to me that could be an option.
Anyway, that's that. No alien invasion, CIA microchip implants, or contagious diseases. Just a guy who doesn't pay attention to what he does.
He said this ring shows up only when he's taking a shower, appears within a few minutes and lasts around 10-15 minutes. He doesn't remember when it started, but knows it's been at least a couple months. It doesn't itch, isn't raised, and there are no other symptoms. Despite the fact it looks like he just pressed on the lid of a bottle, he hadn't touched anything. Plus, you'll notice it's his right hand and he's a leftie. He said it always appears in the same area, though not always the exact same spot. Sometimes it's closer to the base of his thumb, other times closer to the bend between his thumb and pointer finger. He hasn't noticed rings in any other places and it doesn't show up while washing his hands or doing dishes.
Is that bizarre or what? Anyone have a clue as to what it could be? I'm leaning toward "bodies are weird", so Beep and I have had fun Skyping tonight about all the possibilities and ramifications. Sarcastic style, of course, cause that's how our family is.
Anyway, we're not worried. Just curious. So, if you have clue, then feel free to enlighted us!
UPDATE - The mystery has been solved. My original suspicion that he was pressing something was correct, but he didn't even realize he did it. I win.
It's true that there are no bottles in our shower that would make that shape. However, he realized today, as he paid extra close attention, that he rests his hand on the faucet and dangles his fingers under the water while waiting for it to warm up. The circle is the shape of the plug thing that you pull up for a bath, which is on top of the faucet. I don't ever rest my hand there and it never occured to me that could be an option.
Anyway, that's that. No alien invasion, CIA microchip implants, or contagious diseases. Just a guy who doesn't pay attention to what he does.
Monday, February 14, 2011
ASPARAGUS
I love, love, love asparagus and it's cheap this time of year! I like it steamed, chilled, then drizzled with lemon juice, cooked as sesame asparagus, or raw. I know asparagus is one of those things you either love or hate, but if you're one who loves it, then I want to hear how you prepare it.
And, yes, I know it makes your pee smell like asparagus, but it's totally worth stinky pee.
And, yes, I know it makes your pee smell like asparagus, but it's totally worth stinky pee.
Saturday, February 12, 2011
SLEEPY BOYS
Our boys went to bed at 8:30 this morning after the annual all-nighter at Safari Sam's with Athey's grade school class. Though Devon recently stayed up all night, this was his first time at this event. Both boys had a blast! I just took these pictures and expect the boys to look like this for the next few hours.
I'm so thankful for the high schoolers, college students, and other adults who invest so much time and energy into the younger kids at our church. It's awesome!
I'm so thankful for the high schoolers, college students, and other adults who invest so much time and energy into the younger kids at our church. It's awesome!
Friday, February 11, 2011
YUM!
Silas cooks frequently enough these days that it's no longer a Kodak moment every time, but Wednesday's dinner was deeeeeelish! He generally sticks with enchiladas, but this time he created something new - chicken breasts baked with diced tomatoes, diced chiles, and chopped onions on top, then added grated cheddar when he pulled it out of the oven. So yummy! He served it with frozen corn and store-bought rolls.
I may not get toddler-sized snuggles from him anymore, but getting a night off from cooking is equally nice. Different, but still good.
I may not get toddler-sized snuggles from him anymore, but getting a night off from cooking is equally nice. Different, but still good.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
MY MOM'S BIRTHDAY
Today would have been my mom's 58th birthday, so the timing of a package I received in the mail yesterday was kinda cool.
Do you remember my post from last month about someone converting my mom's memorial service from cassette tape to a CD and MP3 disc? Well, my dad took the MP3 and added a slideshow of pictures of my mom to it. He started with pictures of her as a child and went in chronological order through her life, with the most recent pictures showing as the audio of the memorial service ends. How cool of a surprise is that?!
I've tried loading the movie to this post, but it seems to be too big. My dad broke it down into five segments (the entire service is an hour long) and put them on YouTube, so I'm going to post those links here for anyone who is interested. I'll also include how long each segment is, what time span of pictures and which part of the service are included.
#1 - 12:01 Pictures from 1953-ish - 1973-ish. Service includes speaking by Pastor David Shankle and congregational singing led by Harold Keech. Pianists for the service were Nancy Myer and Michelle Ostendorf.
#2 - 13:33 Pictures from 1973-ish - 1976. Service includes speaking by Pastor Shankle, sharing & singing by Rick Stevens, sharing by Kathy Ward
#3 - 11:54 Pictures from 1976 - 1981. Service includes sharing by Judy Zelmer Smith, Sandi Heitz, John Dean.
#4 - 13:26 Pictures from 1981 - 1984-ish. Service includes sharing by Shirley Rettke and Faye Jurisich, singing by Dona (Shankle) Hamilton.
#5 - 12:55 Pictures from 1985-ish - 1991. Service includes sharing by Pastor Shankle, congregational singing led by Harold Keech.
UPDATE: A few years after this post Youtube changed the rules about how long a video could be, so Dad posted a new link that contains the whole service and all the pictures for those who want to do it all at once.
Do you remember my post from last month about someone converting my mom's memorial service from cassette tape to a CD and MP3 disc? Well, my dad took the MP3 and added a slideshow of pictures of my mom to it. He started with pictures of her as a child and went in chronological order through her life, with the most recent pictures showing as the audio of the memorial service ends. How cool of a surprise is that?!
I've tried loading the movie to this post, but it seems to be too big. My dad broke it down into five segments (the entire service is an hour long) and put them on YouTube, so I'm going to post those links here for anyone who is interested. I'll also include how long each segment is, what time span of pictures and which part of the service are included.
#1 - 12:01 Pictures from 1953-ish - 1973-ish. Service includes speaking by Pastor David Shankle and congregational singing led by Harold Keech. Pianists for the service were Nancy Myer and Michelle Ostendorf.
#2 - 13:33 Pictures from 1973-ish - 1976. Service includes speaking by Pastor Shankle, sharing & singing by Rick Stevens, sharing by Kathy Ward
#3 - 11:54 Pictures from 1976 - 1981. Service includes sharing by Judy Zelmer Smith, Sandi Heitz, John Dean.
#4 - 13:26 Pictures from 1981 - 1984-ish. Service includes sharing by Shirley Rettke and Faye Jurisich, singing by Dona (Shankle) Hamilton.
#5 - 12:55 Pictures from 1985-ish - 1991. Service includes sharing by Pastor Shankle, congregational singing led by Harold Keech.
UPDATE: A few years after this post Youtube changed the rules about how long a video could be, so Dad posted a new link that contains the whole service and all the pictures for those who want to do it all at once.
2/10/11 THANKFUL THURSDAY
I'm thankful that Kari, Bryn and Kaipo upgraded my lost & found area, that Shea was willing to haul two ginormous bags from the church to my car since Tim was gone, that the kids and I have had three really great days of school and life, for an amazing dad who took a lot of time to create something really special, for sons that leave little gifts under my pillow, for sunshine, for absolutely hilarious friends, for women who will calmly and rationally work through misunderstandings and hurt feelings until things are smoothed over, and that my Christmas cactus is blooming for the second time this winter.
Guess I'm just feeling extra thankful this week.
What's something that you're thankful for?
Guess I'm just feeling extra thankful this week.
What's something that you're thankful for?
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
PERFECT CHURCHES
There's currently a thread on Sonlight with people asking advice for hypothetical questions. It's all very tongue-in-cheek and snarky answers are being handed out left and right. Since I often see people complain about their churches, I posted the following, trying to hit many of the things people criticize about or desire in the churches they attend.
So, how do you guys all find a church you like? Each one we've tried has been a total flop. You'd think, assuming churches are filled with Christ-like people, that there would be perfect churches on every corner. It just ain't true.
I'd like one with messages that are both educational and encouraging, last just the right amount of time, and match up perfectly with every belief that I hold.
I'd like it to have a program for kids that turns the little ones into kind and compassionate biblical scholars who realize fun and games are unholy, but I'd also like to be commended for keeping my own kids by my side whenever we're in the church building.
I don't want hymns (old school and five octaves too high) or modern songs (can't stand the "Jesus is my boyfriend" mentality), expect the type and number of instruments to accomodate my preferences, and would like the sound guy (cause it's always a guy, you know) to have a clue and not blast my eardrums during music or require me to cup my ears for better reception during the teaching.
Of course, the entire focus of the church should be on ministering to the community. Or missions. Or teaching and taking care of their congregation. Or ... well, whatever the latest trend in churches is.
I'd like the teaching to be straight from the Bible, but be accepting of those who prefer churches that study whatever author has the newest best-seller at the Christian bookstore.
I don't want them to ever discuss how the world came into existence, as that's too controversial, but think it would be great if they had a picketing ministry that focused a different sinful establishment in my community each week.
Is that too much to ask? Really? From people who say they love Jesus? Is there a church like that in your community? If so, what are the homeschooling requirements in your state?
The first response I got was this movie and I just spent five minutes laughing through it.
Disclaimer: Don't bother watching if you want your church to accommodate your preferences or are discontent with your church or churches in general . You won't find it funny.
So, how do you guys all find a church you like? Each one we've tried has been a total flop. You'd think, assuming churches are filled with Christ-like people, that there would be perfect churches on every corner. It just ain't true.
I'd like one with messages that are both educational and encouraging, last just the right amount of time, and match up perfectly with every belief that I hold.
I'd like it to have a program for kids that turns the little ones into kind and compassionate biblical scholars who realize fun and games are unholy, but I'd also like to be commended for keeping my own kids by my side whenever we're in the church building.
I don't want hymns (old school and five octaves too high) or modern songs (can't stand the "Jesus is my boyfriend" mentality), expect the type and number of instruments to accomodate my preferences, and would like the sound guy (cause it's always a guy, you know) to have a clue and not blast my eardrums during music or require me to cup my ears for better reception during the teaching.
Of course, the entire focus of the church should be on ministering to the community. Or missions. Or teaching and taking care of their congregation. Or ... well, whatever the latest trend in churches is.
I'd like the teaching to be straight from the Bible, but be accepting of those who prefer churches that study whatever author has the newest best-seller at the Christian bookstore.
I don't want them to ever discuss how the world came into existence, as that's too controversial, but think it would be great if they had a picketing ministry that focused a different sinful establishment in my community each week.
Is that too much to ask? Really? From people who say they love Jesus? Is there a church like that in your community? If so, what are the homeschooling requirements in your state?
The first response I got was this movie and I just spent five minutes laughing through it.
Disclaimer: Don't bother watching if you want your church to accommodate your preferences or are discontent with your church or churches in general . You won't find it funny.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
HOW LOVING ARE YOU?
Romans 12:9-21 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. On the contrary:
"If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head."
Do no be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
I Corinthians 13:4-8a Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil, but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails.
Our church is currently in Romans twelve and I've read that chapter, along with the passage from I Corinthians, several times over the last week. I just typed out a lengthy explanation of why these passages are so good for me right now, but I decided to delete it. Let's just say that I know exactly which area of love I currently have the most room for improvement in.
I'm guessing it would take you a total of ten seconds to identify your weakest spot. If not, then go through the Roman's passage like a checklist and mark off the things you do consistently, then go through the I Corinthians passage and mark off the adjectives and actions that others could easily use to describe you. Know which area of love you need to work on now?
I'll be working on my weakest area. Want to join me?
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. On the contrary:
"If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head."
Do no be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
I Corinthians 13:4-8a Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil, but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails.
Our church is currently in Romans twelve and I've read that chapter, along with the passage from I Corinthians, several times over the last week. I just typed out a lengthy explanation of why these passages are so good for me right now, but I decided to delete it. Let's just say that I know exactly which area of love I currently have the most room for improvement in.
I'm guessing it would take you a total of ten seconds to identify your weakest spot. If not, then go through the Roman's passage like a checklist and mark off the things you do consistently, then go through the I Corinthians passage and mark off the adjectives and actions that others could easily use to describe you. Know which area of love you need to work on now?
I'll be working on my weakest area. Want to join me?
Sunday, February 6, 2011
BISCO!!
What does "bisco" mean? It's Naomi's version of "disco", which I'm assuming she picked up from the boys and pronounces with two very distinct syllables. It's what she kept yelling as she busted out her dance moves in this picture. Between the ensemble of clashing colors, patterns and styles, happy yelling of "Bis-co!", and tongue sticking out, this picture just makes me smile. A lot.
Friday, February 4, 2011
FANTASTIC FRIDAY
Earlier this week I told the kids that I'd take them out today if they got all their work done early. Well, they didn't get it all done, but it was close enough and we'll make up the rest over the weekend.
This morning we ate breakfast and hit the road. I-5 South, to be exact. First stop was Tim's school. I'm a little embarrassed to admit that we haven't visited there in a couple years. It's just too far away. Anyway, we popped in for about 30 minutes, just long enough for the kids to score candy from two different staff members.
Second stop was A.C. Gilbert Discovery Village, a free outing with our OMSI membership. We'd gone a couple years ago, but Naomi was only 18 months old that time and this trip was obviously more fun for her than the last. We intentionally went on a dry day so that we could spend the majority of our time outside on the play structure they have. Heidi, a friend from the Sonlight forums, showed up for about an hour. Despite living fairly close to each other and frequent Portland-ish meetups, we'd never met until today. I loved chatting with her and am thankful she squeezed a meetup into her day!
Random moment of the day was that the one mom I talked to, out of a gazillion that were there, lives in Wilsonville and is neighbors with the family who currently has our piano. Love those "small world" moments.
We headed east next, spending a couple hours at Toni's house. All our offspring entertained themselves, well ... her four entertained my three, while she and I sat on the couch chatting. Love that girl and always happy when I get a chance to hang out with her!
Then we hit the road toward home. Tim left work about the same time we left Toni's and we met up on the freeway. What are the odds we'd find each other in the beginning of rush hour traffic on a Friday? The kids thought that was pretty cool.
Quick and easy dinner of rice cooker mac & cheese and some apples left from lunch when we got home, followed by the little Ws watching a library movie while I blog. Tim just left to work a game and will be gone for several hours ... and my nappers, who missed naps during today's activities, will go to bed early ... and my non-napper is probably going to get sent to bed with them ... which leaves me with an evening to myself at the end of a fun, but very busy, day. I'd call that a fantastic Friday, wouldn't you?
This morning we ate breakfast and hit the road. I-5 South, to be exact. First stop was Tim's school. I'm a little embarrassed to admit that we haven't visited there in a couple years. It's just too far away. Anyway, we popped in for about 30 minutes, just long enough for the kids to score candy from two different staff members.
Second stop was A.C. Gilbert Discovery Village, a free outing with our OMSI membership. We'd gone a couple years ago, but Naomi was only 18 months old that time and this trip was obviously more fun for her than the last. We intentionally went on a dry day so that we could spend the majority of our time outside on the play structure they have. Heidi, a friend from the Sonlight forums, showed up for about an hour. Despite living fairly close to each other and frequent Portland-ish meetups, we'd never met until today. I loved chatting with her and am thankful she squeezed a meetup into her day!
Random moment of the day was that the one mom I talked to, out of a gazillion that were there, lives in Wilsonville and is neighbors with the family who currently has our piano. Love those "small world" moments.
We headed east next, spending a couple hours at Toni's house. All our offspring entertained themselves, well ... her four entertained my three, while she and I sat on the couch chatting. Love that girl and always happy when I get a chance to hang out with her!
Then we hit the road toward home. Tim left work about the same time we left Toni's and we met up on the freeway. What are the odds we'd find each other in the beginning of rush hour traffic on a Friday? The kids thought that was pretty cool.
Quick and easy dinner of rice cooker mac & cheese and some apples left from lunch when we got home, followed by the little Ws watching a library movie while I blog. Tim just left to work a game and will be gone for several hours ... and my nappers, who missed naps during today's activities, will go to bed early ... and my non-napper is probably going to get sent to bed with them ... which leaves me with an evening to myself at the end of a fun, but very busy, day. I'd call that a fantastic Friday, wouldn't you?
.
.
Heidi & I
Nomes-a-licious
Dev-o-rama
Siley Boy
The little Ws in a huge chair at the Gilbert House.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
2/3/11 THANKFUL THURSDAY
I'm thankful for the luxury of electricity.
What's one thing that you're thankful for?
What's one thing that you're thankful for?
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
MENU - FIRST HALF OF FEBRUARY 2011
I do two big shopping trips each month and because the whole ordeal, from leaving home to getting everything put away, takes most of the morning, I only take the kids with me once per month. We just can't afford to lose two mornings of school each month to grocery shopping. My non-kid trip is always in the evening, but Tim went to work late on Monday, which was my shopping day, so I decided to go in the morning. The early morning. As in, I was out the door by 5:25am. Loved it! I don't go early in the morning very often, but I love that it's just me and all the employees stocking shelves when I do.
Anyway, Monday's trip provided me with groceries for the following meals. Well, all except French bread. For some reason the bakery doesn't have it out by 6:30am. Lazy bums. Guess I'll have to pick some up locally.
BREAKFASTS
oatmeal (sometimes with sauce) x5
Tam's granola (crockpot) x3
egg & potato scramble x3
poppyseed & banana muffins
baked oatmeal
pumpkin pancakes
almond coconut granola
wheat germ whole wheat buttermilk pancakes
SNACKS
chewy granola bars (trying them with honey instead of corn syrup, some friends have tried it and said it worked)
spicy cruncy chickpeas
DINNERS
leftovers x2
tacos x3
tortellini pesto salad/garlic bread
barley bake/green salad -fruit & nut style #1
Carol's chicken noodle soup (hoping to earn some "cool mom" points with alphabet noodles)/new bread recipe
Silas' chicken/frozen corn/pre-made rolls (Silas is cooking)
new soup recipe (flop)/whole wheat biscuits
Amy's barbecue chicken salad/garlic bread
sweet & sour chicken/rice/new veggie recipe
rice cooker mac & cheese/frozen veggies
death by garlic/green salad
Southwestern chicken stew/cornbread (make double batch, freeze half)
Thai chicken & coconut rice/sesame asparagus
DESSERTS
pumpkin chocolate chip cookies
dump cake
Anyway, Monday's trip provided me with groceries for the following meals. Well, all except French bread. For some reason the bakery doesn't have it out by 6:30am. Lazy bums. Guess I'll have to pick some up locally.
BREAKFASTS
oatmeal (sometimes with sauce) x5
Tam's granola (crockpot) x3
egg & potato scramble x3
poppyseed & banana muffins
baked oatmeal
pumpkin pancakes
almond coconut granola
wheat germ whole wheat buttermilk pancakes
SNACKS
chewy granola bars (trying them with honey instead of corn syrup, some friends have tried it and said it worked)
spicy cruncy chickpeas
DINNERS
leftovers x2
tacos x3
tortellini pesto salad/garlic bread
barley bake/green salad -fruit & nut style #1
Carol's chicken noodle soup (hoping to earn some "cool mom" points with alphabet noodles)/new bread recipe
Silas' chicken/frozen corn/pre-made rolls (Silas is cooking)
new soup recipe (flop)/whole wheat biscuits
Amy's barbecue chicken salad/garlic bread
sweet & sour chicken/rice/new veggie recipe
rice cooker mac & cheese/frozen veggies
death by garlic/green salad
Southwestern chicken stew/cornbread (make double batch, freeze half)
Thai chicken & coconut rice/sesame asparagus
DESSERTS
pumpkin chocolate chip cookies
dump cake
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