Something has been on my mind here lately, and now I'm going to write about it. Forgive me if it comes across as a tirade or sermonette. But, this is why I blog. I should mention that this has been one of the hardest blogs I've written, and I've revised it about 5 times now- all in an effort to keep the tone as far from judgemental as possible.
There is a person in my life right now, for which I feel extremely burdened. This person has made quite a few mistakes in their life- mistakes that are obvious and have hurt many people. But yet, I see this person's needs. I want to help and encourage them. I want to show them compassion and love. I feel called to do this. I would love to see other Christians join me in the ministry of encouraging people like that. Because, you see- we are all like that.
However, I often notice that we are not forgiving and compassionate towards those with the "obvious mistakes". We might try to help them in the beginning, but get tired of seeing the same things over, and over again. We give up on people. We even become bitter or angry at seeing them "mess things up again".
But, we are not put on this earth to "fix" people. We are put here to be living, breathing vessels of God's Grace, Love, Compassion and Mercy. My imperfections are so obvious to me each and every day. Some people have instantly obvious, open struggles and battles, while some have equally dark, hidden ones. The odds are, most people already know what their issues are, and are trying to work on them. They don't need their mistakes pointed out for them- they already know. While there is a need and a purpose for a spiritual mentor, God will guide us to the ones for which we are matched.
Jesus Christ ate with sinners. Felt compassion for them. Told stories about the prodigal son, and the lost sheep. Do you really think that God thinks, "Oh, here goes so-and-so again, repentant for their sins.... but it doesn't really matter because they're going to do it again next week- the cycle never ends." NOOOOOOO!!!!! Thank God that He doesn't think that way, or else I'd be in big trouble. One statement a Pastor in my church has made about our church, and Christian fellowship, is that we are "not a hotel for saints, but a hospital for sinners". There are consequences for sin. I think we can all vouch for that, from personal experience. But there's grace, and mercy, too.
This morning, I was mulling over this topic, and a song from a long, long time ago came to my mind. It's one I used to love to sing when I was little, but I don't think I really understood the words. (I'm not sure who to give props for on this song, or if I even have the words in the right order).
He's still working on me...
To make me what I ought to be...
It took Him just a week to make the moon and the stars,
the sun and the earth, and Jupiter and Mars.
How loving and patient He must be.
Cause He's still working on me.
There really ought to be
a sign across my heart-
"Don't judge me yet, there's an unfinished part"
But I'll be perfect- just according to His plan.
I'm fashioned by the Master's loving hands.
God's still working on each and every one of us. The work doesn't stop the day you accept Jesus as Savior. That doesn't make you perfect. The work continues till the day you leave the earth. And His forgiveness, grace and mercy continue until the day we leave the earth and beyond. God understands that we're human, and we might be making the same mistakes at 60 that we made at 25. Hopefully, we learn, but if we don't- He loves us just the same. And we should at least try to treat each other with the same grace.
Sunday, December 31, 2006
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
It wadn't me... or maybe it was...
Okay, so for Christmas, most people opt to treat their moms to a special gift. Jewelry, a nice sweater, warm fuzzy slippers, you know the drill. Well, for some reason, I usually end up nearly poisoning my mom on most holidays.
Let me elaborate. This Christmas, I made broccoli casserole, as I normally do, for Christmas dinner at my Grandma's house. I should mention that I've made this casserole at Thanksgiving for YEARS, and several Christmases.
Anyways, after dinner, we're all sitting around in comatose states, when my mom approaches and asked, "Amanda- what was in the broccoli casserole?" I immediately know that she must be feeling sick, and is hinting that I might've used something with beta carotene in it. See, my mom is HIGHLY allergic to beta carotene. This is a pretty rare allergy, and one that has presented me with many challenges when trying to prepare food she can eat. She hasn't always had this allergy, and developed it as an adult. I remember a couple years ago, happily bringing my appetizer veggie tray- complete with carrots. My dad had a cow, and couldn't believe I'd even bring carrots into the house. It just took some getting used to- I wasn't used to her allergy, and kept forgetting. I've unknowingly made dips with seasonings that contain beta carotene; and served cake lovingly covered with Cool Whip, which also contains beta carotene.
This year, I was determined NOT to poison my mom, so I stuck with safe bets when preparing my dishes- the standby broccoli casserole, a dip without any beta carotene, and a spinach dip. So when my Mom approached me about the food, I instantly bristled- "It wasn't me------ I didn't do it. The only things in the broccoli casserole are broccoli, rice, butter, flour, cheese and mustard. It wasn't me, this time, I was careful." Mom was feeling worse by the minute, and about 10 minutes went by before my dad approached me about what beta carotene I'd served my mom this time. I stared at the broccoli casserole- stirring it around, and racking my brain to figure out in what form I'd served the beta carotene. At this point, everyone knew it HAD to have been me. I'm notorious for it. Then I remembered another ingredient- Cream of Chicken soup. I turned to Dad "Unless.... well, does cream of chicken........" Everyone looked at each other. Apparently, everyone else knew that Cream of Chicken soup has beta carotene in it. I'd done it again- unwittingly tried to poison my mom. I was so embarrassed, and ran to the bathroom to hide. Of course, they all tried to make me feel better, but I'm sure I'll be the butt of many jokes as time goes by.
Apparently, mom doesn't normally eat the broccoli casserole at most holidays, but I didn't know that...
When I got home, I dug the Cream of Chicken soup can out of the trash- just to see if it REALLY was my fault. Sure enough... there it was- "contains beta carotene for coloring".
Let me elaborate. This Christmas, I made broccoli casserole, as I normally do, for Christmas dinner at my Grandma's house. I should mention that I've made this casserole at Thanksgiving for YEARS, and several Christmases.
Anyways, after dinner, we're all sitting around in comatose states, when my mom approaches and asked, "Amanda- what was in the broccoli casserole?" I immediately know that she must be feeling sick, and is hinting that I might've used something with beta carotene in it. See, my mom is HIGHLY allergic to beta carotene. This is a pretty rare allergy, and one that has presented me with many challenges when trying to prepare food she can eat. She hasn't always had this allergy, and developed it as an adult. I remember a couple years ago, happily bringing my appetizer veggie tray- complete with carrots. My dad had a cow, and couldn't believe I'd even bring carrots into the house. It just took some getting used to- I wasn't used to her allergy, and kept forgetting. I've unknowingly made dips with seasonings that contain beta carotene; and served cake lovingly covered with Cool Whip, which also contains beta carotene.
This year, I was determined NOT to poison my mom, so I stuck with safe bets when preparing my dishes- the standby broccoli casserole, a dip without any beta carotene, and a spinach dip. So when my Mom approached me about the food, I instantly bristled- "It wasn't me------ I didn't do it. The only things in the broccoli casserole are broccoli, rice, butter, flour, cheese and mustard. It wasn't me, this time, I was careful." Mom was feeling worse by the minute, and about 10 minutes went by before my dad approached me about what beta carotene I'd served my mom this time. I stared at the broccoli casserole- stirring it around, and racking my brain to figure out in what form I'd served the beta carotene. At this point, everyone knew it HAD to have been me. I'm notorious for it. Then I remembered another ingredient- Cream of Chicken soup. I turned to Dad "Unless.... well, does cream of chicken........" Everyone looked at each other. Apparently, everyone else knew that Cream of Chicken soup has beta carotene in it. I'd done it again- unwittingly tried to poison my mom. I was so embarrassed, and ran to the bathroom to hide. Of course, they all tried to make me feel better, but I'm sure I'll be the butt of many jokes as time goes by.
Apparently, mom doesn't normally eat the broccoli casserole at most holidays, but I didn't know that...
When I got home, I dug the Cream of Chicken soup can out of the trash- just to see if it REALLY was my fault. Sure enough... there it was- "contains beta carotene for coloring".
To sum up Christmas
Our Christmas was action packed, and full of family. Martin and I are fortunate to have some of both sides of our family here in Charlotte, so we get to see most of them at Holidays. It makes for quite a marathon, though.
Christmas Eve we had Manfred and Barbara over for the traditional Buteau Touche pie. This is a pie made of ground beef, ground pork, mashed potatoes, celery and onions. Not bad, but most of us like to eat it with ketchup. This is a tradition Martin has carried over from his mother's side of the family. Before dinner, the boys opened their gifts from Grammy and Grampy, and also the traditional Christmas Eve pj's and socks from us. This year's pj selection was "Moosin' around" from Old Navy. Thanks to Grammy and Grampy for all the wonderful gifts! Mason's favorite is a guitar- he provided the entertainment during dinner- "Okay, Ladies and genlemen- here we go- 1,2,3- Action!" followed by Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star "played" and sung on the guitar.
Late Christmas Eve night, Martin and I exchanged gifts. This a tradition I love, since we get to do it alone, and Christmas morning is so hectic now, with kids.
Christmas morning, we found that Santa had visited, and had left for Mason a Star Wars light saber building kit (per Mason's request), and a Star Wars Lego computer game- it was a Star Wars Christmas. Santa left Coen a book, and bath tub toys. Coen was actually more into it than we thought he'd be. It was fun.
I threw together a few recipes for Grandma's house, and we headed over. We swapped gifts with my family, and enjoyed a lunch of baked ham, roast, turkey, mac-n-cheese, broccoli casserole, biscuits, cranberry sauce, green beans, potatoes, and more.
After leaving Grandma's, the boys sacked out in the car, so we opted not to head over to Martin's stepbrother's. Coen is recovering from an ear infection, and brochiolitis, and since it was so rainy, and cold, and he hadn't napped, we thought it would be best for him to get home, and rest.
All in all, it was a great day. We missed those we didn't get to see (especially the crew at Rich and Laura's), and are so grateful we saw the ones we did.
Christmas Eve we had Manfred and Barbara over for the traditional Buteau Touche pie. This is a pie made of ground beef, ground pork, mashed potatoes, celery and onions. Not bad, but most of us like to eat it with ketchup. This is a tradition Martin has carried over from his mother's side of the family. Before dinner, the boys opened their gifts from Grammy and Grampy, and also the traditional Christmas Eve pj's and socks from us. This year's pj selection was "Moosin' around" from Old Navy. Thanks to Grammy and Grampy for all the wonderful gifts! Mason's favorite is a guitar- he provided the entertainment during dinner- "Okay, Ladies and genlemen- here we go- 1,2,3- Action!" followed by Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star "played" and sung on the guitar.
Late Christmas Eve night, Martin and I exchanged gifts. This a tradition I love, since we get to do it alone, and Christmas morning is so hectic now, with kids.
Christmas morning, we found that Santa had visited, and had left for Mason a Star Wars light saber building kit (per Mason's request), and a Star Wars Lego computer game- it was a Star Wars Christmas. Santa left Coen a book, and bath tub toys. Coen was actually more into it than we thought he'd be. It was fun.
I threw together a few recipes for Grandma's house, and we headed over. We swapped gifts with my family, and enjoyed a lunch of baked ham, roast, turkey, mac-n-cheese, broccoli casserole, biscuits, cranberry sauce, green beans, potatoes, and more.
After leaving Grandma's, the boys sacked out in the car, so we opted not to head over to Martin's stepbrother's. Coen is recovering from an ear infection, and brochiolitis, and since it was so rainy, and cold, and he hadn't napped, we thought it would be best for him to get home, and rest.
All in all, it was a great day. We missed those we didn't get to see (especially the crew at Rich and Laura's), and are so grateful we saw the ones we did.
For those of you who asked, here's my new Cheddar-Beer Spread recipe:
2 cloves of garlic, sauteed in olive oil, and chopped
1 block 8 oz. cream cheese softened
Approx. 8 oz. shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup beer
Combine all ingredients in bowl. It will be runny, but then pop it in the oven for approximately 20 minute at about 350 degrees, or until bubbly- give it a stir. I served it with beer bread that I chopped into cubes, tossed lightly with olive oil and pepper, and retoasted on broil in the oven. (Watch them so they don't burn). It's also really good served with tortilla chips or crackers.
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Pay it Forward
Almost every family has those difficult years when they realize that it won't be the picture-perfect Christmas. Mom and Dad know there's barely or not enough money to pay the bills, much less buy presents for the kids, gifts for the teachers, mail guys, and food for all the holiday parties. Almost every family has a year when things are tight. It's almost enough to make you forget the meaning of Christmas.
This Christmas, I'd like to share with you one of my favorite Christmas memories. You might think it was the one where Santa brought me that Pound Puppy sleeping bag I wanted for a whole year, or those leather boots I wanted. And while those two rank pretty high up there, the year that leaves one of the most defining moments on my heart, was one of the hardest on my family.
I was too little to know exactly how old I was. I think maybe between 4-6 years old. Maybe younger, I don't remember- so some of the details are sketchy. I do remember that it was one of the years that my dad once again said, "there will be no presents this year". I think it was the year my dad was layed off from his job. I remember my younger brother had been sick- in the hospital alot, and now, as an adult, I think my parents had lost their health insurance when my dad was layed off. Needless to say, things were bad. There were only 3 of us 5 kids at the time, but it was tough.
The main thing I remember is that these guys from the fire department showed up at the back door, with a huge box of food and presents for us kids. I remember opening my gift. It was a stuffed pillow shaped like a little girl skunk. I remember she was so pretty, and had flowers on her head. And down on the bottom, there was a little label that had been either ironed on, or sewed, and it said my name. Amanda. I couldn't believe it. It had been made just for me. Rebekah got a little girl bunny one, and Josh a little boy bunny one. I remember I loved that skunk for years. I'm pretty sure Rebekah held onto her bunny for a long time too. I'll never forget my skunk.
That was just one of the many years that others came to our rescue. Things were always tight at our house. Five kids, someone usually sick, and maybe even in the hospital. Boxes of love at church, my grandma, lots of people.
I know now, as an adult and a parent, that it must've been so hard for my parents. Another year of not knowing what Santa would bring your kids THIS time, or even if. I know now, that my parents swallowed alot of pride to make sure that at Christmas, and even in our everyday lives, our needs were met. There were lots of beans and rice, spam and instant potatoes at my house growing up. But now, we're all grown, and going home is one of my favorite things. I'm so thankful for everyone of them.
But the point I'm trying to make is this. If you haven't done something for someone else this season, think about it. For the first time in my adult life, this year, Martin and I were able to sponsor a girl on the dove tree at church. This is something I've always wanted to do. Let me tell you that shopping for her was one of the hardest things I've ever done. I wanted to give her everything. I kept remembering my skunk pillow, and thinking that one day she might look back on this, and pay it forward to someone else. I won't see her open those gifts this Christmas, but maybe someone who loves her will, and it will mean just as much to them.
My heart is so full this Holiday season, and I hope that we can all remember to share with others the way God shared with us. Merry Christmas!
This Christmas, I'd like to share with you one of my favorite Christmas memories. You might think it was the one where Santa brought me that Pound Puppy sleeping bag I wanted for a whole year, or those leather boots I wanted. And while those two rank pretty high up there, the year that leaves one of the most defining moments on my heart, was one of the hardest on my family.
I was too little to know exactly how old I was. I think maybe between 4-6 years old. Maybe younger, I don't remember- so some of the details are sketchy. I do remember that it was one of the years that my dad once again said, "there will be no presents this year". I think it was the year my dad was layed off from his job. I remember my younger brother had been sick- in the hospital alot, and now, as an adult, I think my parents had lost their health insurance when my dad was layed off. Needless to say, things were bad. There were only 3 of us 5 kids at the time, but it was tough.
The main thing I remember is that these guys from the fire department showed up at the back door, with a huge box of food and presents for us kids. I remember opening my gift. It was a stuffed pillow shaped like a little girl skunk. I remember she was so pretty, and had flowers on her head. And down on the bottom, there was a little label that had been either ironed on, or sewed, and it said my name. Amanda. I couldn't believe it. It had been made just for me. Rebekah got a little girl bunny one, and Josh a little boy bunny one. I remember I loved that skunk for years. I'm pretty sure Rebekah held onto her bunny for a long time too. I'll never forget my skunk.
That was just one of the many years that others came to our rescue. Things were always tight at our house. Five kids, someone usually sick, and maybe even in the hospital. Boxes of love at church, my grandma, lots of people.
I know now, as an adult and a parent, that it must've been so hard for my parents. Another year of not knowing what Santa would bring your kids THIS time, or even if. I know now, that my parents swallowed alot of pride to make sure that at Christmas, and even in our everyday lives, our needs were met. There were lots of beans and rice, spam and instant potatoes at my house growing up. But now, we're all grown, and going home is one of my favorite things. I'm so thankful for everyone of them.
But the point I'm trying to make is this. If you haven't done something for someone else this season, think about it. For the first time in my adult life, this year, Martin and I were able to sponsor a girl on the dove tree at church. This is something I've always wanted to do. Let me tell you that shopping for her was one of the hardest things I've ever done. I wanted to give her everything. I kept remembering my skunk pillow, and thinking that one day she might look back on this, and pay it forward to someone else. I won't see her open those gifts this Christmas, but maybe someone who loves her will, and it will mean just as much to them.
My heart is so full this Holiday season, and I hope that we can all remember to share with others the way God shared with us. Merry Christmas!
Monday, December 11, 2006
Freeze Frame
Ever have one of those days, when you think... "Please just let me freeze this day in my mind forever.... I'm so happy right now, I just want to take a mental snapshot, and never forget how happy I am." My wedding day, of course, was such a day, as were the days that my boys were born- or should I say, after my boys were born- the prelude was a bit long.
About my wedding day, a friend was wise enough to give great advice- take a minute ever so often, stop what you're doing, and just look- pay attention the sights and sounds, so that they are always burned into your memory.
I had another day like this on Saturday. You would think it would be something significant. A wonderful event, but it was just living life. Just a regular day. We went to the grocery store, so Mason and Martin could pick out firewood for our first fire of the season. I could tell Mason felt pretty important, being part of the process- and he wanted to do everything Martin did. Afterwards, he was mesmerized by the fire (half the guys in my family are, anyway), and sat staring into it- so peaceful, and happy. We put Coen in the swing, and he just sat there happily, while Martin and I got dinner ready in the kitchen. No TV blaring- just quiet, and our conversation, and the red, white and green glow of Christmas lights from the tree. Perfect, Norman Rockwell stuff.
It was a freeze frame moment. I don't want to every forget the little moments like that, and that's why I wrote that one down. Hopefully, I won't forget it.
Monday, December 4, 2006
Priceless
Ohhhh. I have to tell you. There's nothing philosophical or sociological here today. I think I broke several of the Practical Life Applications 101 over the weekend. See- maybe I don't know what I'm talking about.
Martin and I were lucky enough to hang out with several good long-distance friends this weekend, and have some alone time. This is among the first that we've had since Coen's been born (he's six months on Saturday). BOY, did I need the break. We had a great time in Dallas, guys, and are so thankful for each one of you- each for a special, unique reason. I think I've told you all why.
Martin shines in the workplace, as always, and I'm proud to be his wife.
We also took a 3 1/2 hour detour, and drove up to O-K-L-A-H-O-M-A to see my brother Tim. Let me tell you that the time we spent there was priceless. We spent more time in the car than actually with him, but I can't erase the memory of his big smile from heart, and I'm so happy we did it. When he teared up when we were about to leave, I jokingly told him, "See, now you know how it feels to be left behind". It seems like we're usually the ones wiping the tears. Well, I still was- driving away. The little brother that will always pull at my heart strings. Who am I kidding? All the sibs do.
All in all, a good weekend, with wonderful shining moments, and a couple not so great ones, too.
But the topper, seeing my two boys- so happy to see me. Coen about to spring out of my Dad's arms to grab me, and Mason- free with the hugs and kisses.
Priceless, priceless, priceless. All of it.
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Here is the Church, here is the Steeple...
Being a Christian in a world full of non-Christians can be just about the most frustrating thing in the world. It is exasperating! The things that matter to us differ so greatly from the things that matter to them.
Money, power, ego, status- these things can matter so greatly to people- even Christians, that they become a god to the person. I won't lie- Martin and I have both talked about times when we've lost sight of what really mattered, and focused on what didn't. It hasn't landed us in good situations in the past.
But what's even harder, is focusing on what does matter- eternal treasures- when everyone else around you is so focused on what doesn't matter eternally. At one point, I enjoyed the company of those people more than the company of Christians. Now, I don't. Now I know what it means to be separate from them. That's what the Bible's talking about. We don't have to walk around, and pretend that they don't exist, or pretend that their way of life doesn't exist; but we surround ourselves with Christians, so that our mind-set becomes more "Christ-like", and suddenly, we just don't relate to their way of thinking.
Thank God for our church, our home group, and other Christians that we can surround ourselves with. Those who will keep us grounded in what truly DOES matter for eternity.
I am so thankful that God has been good enough to bring us to this particular church- Christ the King. He has used it to heal our hearts, and strengthen and deepen our relationship with Him. Just last Sunday, nearly the whole church was brought to their knees at the end of the service- feeling the presence of God in the place.
I can't say enough how important it is to be part of a greater Christian community. I've LEARNED this. I've been told many times, but I've LEARNED it now.
Money, power, ego, status- these things can matter so greatly to people- even Christians, that they become a god to the person. I won't lie- Martin and I have both talked about times when we've lost sight of what really mattered, and focused on what didn't. It hasn't landed us in good situations in the past.
But what's even harder, is focusing on what does matter- eternal treasures- when everyone else around you is so focused on what doesn't matter eternally. At one point, I enjoyed the company of those people more than the company of Christians. Now, I don't. Now I know what it means to be separate from them. That's what the Bible's talking about. We don't have to walk around, and pretend that they don't exist, or pretend that their way of life doesn't exist; but we surround ourselves with Christians, so that our mind-set becomes more "Christ-like", and suddenly, we just don't relate to their way of thinking.
Thank God for our church, our home group, and other Christians that we can surround ourselves with. Those who will keep us grounded in what truly DOES matter for eternity.
I am so thankful that God has been good enough to bring us to this particular church- Christ the King. He has used it to heal our hearts, and strengthen and deepen our relationship with Him. Just last Sunday, nearly the whole church was brought to their knees at the end of the service- feeling the presence of God in the place.
I can't say enough how important it is to be part of a greater Christian community. I've LEARNED this. I've been told many times, but I've LEARNED it now.
Friday, November 24, 2006
Practical Life Applications 101- Letters to the College Front
Okay, so today is Black Friday- Day after Thanksgiving. Our Thanksgiving was great, as always (we missed you, Tim), but I don't feel compelled to write about that today.
Recently, my extended family has grown by quite a bit, due to an Uncle's marriage. His new wife has added several great kids to the extended family, and I was lucky enough to spend a little time with them yesterday. Their current experiences range from middle school to college, and talking with them yesterday, made me want to unload tons of unsolicited, (perhaps unwanted) advice. Hence, today's post is Practical Life Applications 101. Targeted mainly to those on the college front.
Now, here's the deal. Most of you who would be reading this blog, know the basics already- do my life choices glorify God? Read your Bible, pray, etc. Here are some other things I've learned. Alot I learned in college- but I guess they could apply to real life sometimes, too. Believe me, I'm NOT listing these things because I did them.... I'm listing them because I DIDN'T, and payed for it. Hopefully, you guys are smarter than I was, and don't need to read this stuff.
#1- Take care of your health. Sometimes, this means going to bed, when everyone else wants to party. Believe me, you WON'T always be popular for this. But dragging yourself to class (or work) at 8 am is a little bit easier if you've had adequate snooze time. And if you're sick.... don't go out. Everyone will tell you to pop a Vitamin C or Ecinesea, and keep going, but take time to get better. As good as friends can be, sometimes they are very convincing- they would love nothing more than your company, and that can wreak havoc on your health, if you're pulling to many late-nighters.
#2- Prioritize. No one will tell you what order to put your activities in. Well, your Professors might try to do that, but no one can MAKE you. If you know you have a project due, don't think that you'll be able to go out tonight, and still get it done by 8am. It WON'T happen, or else it will, but your product will show it.
#3- Avoid the Credit Card guys that hand out free tee-shirts, duffle bags, and frisbees. If you need the tee-shirts that bad, go to Old Navy, and spend the 10 bucks. Trust me. You don't need 3 different credit cards for "emergencies". No one tells you this, (or maybe now they do), but that dings your credit everytime you apply for one.
#4- Pay your bills- ONTIME. It's easy to think that what you do moneywise, while you're young won't count. Believe me, it does. I remember when we bought our house, I had to write explanations on why a bill was late, like 3 years before. Like I could remember why.... that was college, I didn't think it mattered.
Which leads me too...
#5- Will you regret this decision? Tomorrow, next week, next semester, or 6 years from now.... Now, if we all lived by "Does this decision glorify God?", we wouldn't have this issue, but since I know we don't all ALWAYS do this, I thought I'd throw it in. Explaining yourself tomorrow, next week, next semester, or 6 years from now- to a friend, significant other, professor, boss, spouse, or God can sometimes get hairy.
#6- Don't take, or allow yourself to be in, any pictures that you don't want to see come out in 10 years or so.... I recently had to hide some photo albums from my four-year-old, and this too, can be embarrasing.
I know many of you might have some other valuable life lessons you'd like to share. Email them to me, and I'll post them on my blog.
I hope you all had a great Turkey Day!
Recently, my extended family has grown by quite a bit, due to an Uncle's marriage. His new wife has added several great kids to the extended family, and I was lucky enough to spend a little time with them yesterday. Their current experiences range from middle school to college, and talking with them yesterday, made me want to unload tons of unsolicited, (perhaps unwanted) advice. Hence, today's post is Practical Life Applications 101. Targeted mainly to those on the college front.
Now, here's the deal. Most of you who would be reading this blog, know the basics already- do my life choices glorify God? Read your Bible, pray, etc. Here are some other things I've learned. Alot I learned in college- but I guess they could apply to real life sometimes, too. Believe me, I'm NOT listing these things because I did them.... I'm listing them because I DIDN'T, and payed for it. Hopefully, you guys are smarter than I was, and don't need to read this stuff.
#1- Take care of your health. Sometimes, this means going to bed, when everyone else wants to party. Believe me, you WON'T always be popular for this. But dragging yourself to class (or work) at 8 am is a little bit easier if you've had adequate snooze time. And if you're sick.... don't go out. Everyone will tell you to pop a Vitamin C or Ecinesea, and keep going, but take time to get better. As good as friends can be, sometimes they are very convincing- they would love nothing more than your company, and that can wreak havoc on your health, if you're pulling to many late-nighters.
#2- Prioritize. No one will tell you what order to put your activities in. Well, your Professors might try to do that, but no one can MAKE you. If you know you have a project due, don't think that you'll be able to go out tonight, and still get it done by 8am. It WON'T happen, or else it will, but your product will show it.
#3- Avoid the Credit Card guys that hand out free tee-shirts, duffle bags, and frisbees. If you need the tee-shirts that bad, go to Old Navy, and spend the 10 bucks. Trust me. You don't need 3 different credit cards for "emergencies". No one tells you this, (or maybe now they do), but that dings your credit everytime you apply for one.
#4- Pay your bills- ONTIME. It's easy to think that what you do moneywise, while you're young won't count. Believe me, it does. I remember when we bought our house, I had to write explanations on why a bill was late, like 3 years before. Like I could remember why.... that was college, I didn't think it mattered.
Which leads me too...
#5- Will you regret this decision? Tomorrow, next week, next semester, or 6 years from now.... Now, if we all lived by "Does this decision glorify God?", we wouldn't have this issue, but since I know we don't all ALWAYS do this, I thought I'd throw it in. Explaining yourself tomorrow, next week, next semester, or 6 years from now- to a friend, significant other, professor, boss, spouse, or God can sometimes get hairy.
#6- Don't take, or allow yourself to be in, any pictures that you don't want to see come out in 10 years or so.... I recently had to hide some photo albums from my four-year-old, and this too, can be embarrasing.
I know many of you might have some other valuable life lessons you'd like to share. Email them to me, and I'll post them on my blog.
I hope you all had a great Turkey Day!
Saturday, November 11, 2006
Virtuous Woman
Yesterday, I attended the funeral of the grandmother of a friend. She was 92 years old, this Grandma, and was such a sweet person. She was always the first to open up the fridge, and offer something to eat... even if you had already told her you just ate. She was always hospitable, and cute as a button. She will be missed, I'm sure. I'm happy I had the chance to know her.
At the funeral, I was struck by the realization that this is the kind of legacy I'd like to leave. The Proverbs 31 kind, which is exactly how her grandson described her, while he officiated her funeral- he's the pastor of a church, now. The family that surrounded her is a testament to the kind of person she was. And this funeral was not the normal, sad, hopeless type. It was full of hope and happiness for the life to follow. And she made sure through communicating her wishes, that the life to follow was presented to each person there.
My thoughts and prayers are with the family, now, and in the days ahead.
At the funeral, I was struck by the realization that this is the kind of legacy I'd like to leave. The Proverbs 31 kind, which is exactly how her grandson described her, while he officiated her funeral- he's the pastor of a church, now. The family that surrounded her is a testament to the kind of person she was. And this funeral was not the normal, sad, hopeless type. It was full of hope and happiness for the life to follow. And she made sure through communicating her wishes, that the life to follow was presented to each person there.
My thoughts and prayers are with the family, now, and in the days ahead.
Tuesday, November 7, 2006
Toilet Paper and Toothpaste
Okay, so we all have those days (weeks, months, etc.), when we think- Okay, God, enough already. I can't handle ONE MORE THING. Not to be dramatic, but come on, we all have them.
Well, call it post-partum, or whatever, but I've been there for about two months now. There just always seems to be one more thing. The kids are sick, the cat has to go to the vet... which leads to more bills we can't pay... the car's messing up... one more bill we can't pay... always something. I allow myself to wallow briefly in self pity, and then I go to our home group on Sunday nights, and I am brought back to the reality that some people face. Nothing like mine. We recently did a outreach opportunity where we collected toiletries for a local under-priveleged trailer park. TOILETRIES, people. I'm talking about toilet paper, tooth-paste. This isn't the Soviet Union, this is in the United States of America. Yet, there are people living in poverty that we choose not to see. And I'm complaining about the cat vet bill. Small potatoes, don't you think?
Well, I forget, so that might be why I felt led to take this post in this direction tonight. Martin had an "incident" at work, and had to go to the ER, resulting in the diagnosis of a sprained knee, and bruised hip, bum and ego. They will check him out at the Orthopedic Dr. in the next couple days to see if his knee is further damaged, as he already is in need of surgery, and could've worsened the situation. We both cringed at the idea of the co-pay that will follow. Then, I remember our outreach project and feel like an idiot for even comparing our situation to theirs.
Thank you, Lord, for insurance, jobs to pay for insurance, food at the end of a long day, and comfy bed to sleep in, and toilet paper, and tooth paste to make life just a tad more comfortable.
Well, call it post-partum, or whatever, but I've been there for about two months now. There just always seems to be one more thing. The kids are sick, the cat has to go to the vet... which leads to more bills we can't pay... the car's messing up... one more bill we can't pay... always something. I allow myself to wallow briefly in self pity, and then I go to our home group on Sunday nights, and I am brought back to the reality that some people face. Nothing like mine. We recently did a outreach opportunity where we collected toiletries for a local under-priveleged trailer park. TOILETRIES, people. I'm talking about toilet paper, tooth-paste. This isn't the Soviet Union, this is in the United States of America. Yet, there are people living in poverty that we choose not to see. And I'm complaining about the cat vet bill. Small potatoes, don't you think?
Well, I forget, so that might be why I felt led to take this post in this direction tonight. Martin had an "incident" at work, and had to go to the ER, resulting in the diagnosis of a sprained knee, and bruised hip, bum and ego. They will check him out at the Orthopedic Dr. in the next couple days to see if his knee is further damaged, as he already is in need of surgery, and could've worsened the situation. We both cringed at the idea of the co-pay that will follow. Then, I remember our outreach project and feel like an idiot for even comparing our situation to theirs.
Thank you, Lord, for insurance, jobs to pay for insurance, food at the end of a long day, and comfy bed to sleep in, and toilet paper, and tooth paste to make life just a tad more comfortable.
Sunday, October 29, 2006
A work in progress
Not much to post about at this point. It seems like lately, I am full of deeper, reflective thoughts.
I'm in the process of evaluating alot of things in my life. Alot of this has come out of our home groups' study of the Purpose Driven Life. I've had that book for about 3 or 4 years, and never finished it until now- I think I wasn't ready to commit. I didn't really WANT to know what I needed to do, or change, or focus on. You know- the whole "mylifeisfinethewayitis" mentality. Well, I did miss SOME of the reading, but at least between my reading, the sermon series, and home group- I'm getting a good bit of the jist- I will need to re-read, and review. The truth is, if I want that deeper Relationship... I have to change some things. And the way I think. I've been working on that. I'm a work in progress, you know... so everyone cut me a little slack, and I'll try to do the same for you.
I've come to realize, I'm probably one of the "EGR's" of the world- "Extra Grace Required" (for people to tolerate me). I'm an extremely vocal person and a proliferate writer of words (obviously), and that probably gets me in trouble more often than not.
I'm the first one to fire off an email, or letter to a company's headquarters, all in an effort to fight for 'consumer's rights'. I've convinced myself that it's for a good cause. I put alot of energy and passion into my words- whether it's a customer service complaint or compliment, an email, a blog, or even a conversation. This can be good, and it can be bad. It's probably better when I write things down first because when words fly off the tip of my tongue, they're usually the wrong ones, at the wrong time. Too bad I don't have to write them all down first, so I'd have to re-read them 5 times before "posting".
Although, I will say that there have been times when my words have maybe made sense to SOMEONE, and maybe made a difference. At least I hope so. That's something I need to pattern more of my life after Jesus. When He spoke, it was worth saying, important, and timed perfectly. My speech is usually useless, hot-air, ill-timed, and sometimes even inappropriate. I'll admit it. So for those of you in my who've been victims of this, I apologize. Again, I'm a work in progress. Forgive me.
I'm in the process of evaluating alot of things in my life. Alot of this has come out of our home groups' study of the Purpose Driven Life. I've had that book for about 3 or 4 years, and never finished it until now- I think I wasn't ready to commit. I didn't really WANT to know what I needed to do, or change, or focus on. You know- the whole "mylifeisfinethewayitis" mentality. Well, I did miss SOME of the reading, but at least between my reading, the sermon series, and home group- I'm getting a good bit of the jist- I will need to re-read, and review. The truth is, if I want that deeper Relationship... I have to change some things. And the way I think. I've been working on that. I'm a work in progress, you know... so everyone cut me a little slack, and I'll try to do the same for you.
I've come to realize, I'm probably one of the "EGR's" of the world- "Extra Grace Required" (for people to tolerate me). I'm an extremely vocal person and a proliferate writer of words (obviously), and that probably gets me in trouble more often than not.
I'm the first one to fire off an email, or letter to a company's headquarters, all in an effort to fight for 'consumer's rights'. I've convinced myself that it's for a good cause. I put alot of energy and passion into my words- whether it's a customer service complaint or compliment, an email, a blog, or even a conversation. This can be good, and it can be bad. It's probably better when I write things down first because when words fly off the tip of my tongue, they're usually the wrong ones, at the wrong time. Too bad I don't have to write them all down first, so I'd have to re-read them 5 times before "posting".
Although, I will say that there have been times when my words have maybe made sense to SOMEONE, and maybe made a difference. At least I hope so. That's something I need to pattern more of my life after Jesus. When He spoke, it was worth saying, important, and timed perfectly. My speech is usually useless, hot-air, ill-timed, and sometimes even inappropriate. I'll admit it. So for those of you in my who've been victims of this, I apologize. Again, I'm a work in progress. Forgive me.
Thursday, October 12, 2006
A month of Sundays
The thing I love about my girlfriends is this.... we don't have to call each other every day, or see each other every day, or even email on a regular basis. It sounds awful. But everyone of those girls knows that we can count on each other, whether we talked yesterday, or a couple weeks ago. Over the years, we've added jobs, husbands, children, and now, even more children. Time races by, and suddenly it's been too long since we've talked. Yet, lately, we have somehow made it a point to make an effort to reinforce our friendship by meeting at least once a month for dinner. These night outs have become a welcome break from the rest of our lives. And we always somehow manage to pick up where we left off, and are usually sad when it comes to an end at the end of the night.
Typically during a night like this, conversation ranges from silly to nostalgic, serious to taboo, but there's almost always a deeper reflective moment. This past week, at Kubutos, we dodged a flying shrimp tail while we discussed a couple of movies. (Neither of which I have seen, I might add). I've seen the previews of the movie Click, but we were talking about how quickly life speeds by... even without the fast-forward. Afterall, it was just a short 8 years ago, us girls were wild and crazy Maple Girls (my sister-in-law recently mentioned she thought I was in a sorority- I guess I was, in our own version). Now, most of us have kids, and some of us a whopping 2 KIDS.
My comment was that a couple years ago, while I was working full time... I found myself every day wishing it was Friday afternoon so I could go home, and veg with the family. Until one day- I realized- I was missing out on what Monday thru Friday had to offer. I was so busy wishing for the weekend, that I was slowly wishing my life away. I changed my mind-set after that. I didn't want to live like that anymore. After leaving the girls that night, I felt so content.
Today, that's not really the case. Sometimes I feel like I just run from one thing to another... only to feel like at the end of the day, I've accomplished nothing of any importance. The house is still a mess, laundry still needs to be done, and my TO DO list far outweighs my DONE list.
I hate to whine, but some moms seem like they have it all together... and still have time for play-dates; while I feel guilty for taking too long of a shower, or sneaking in a nap every couple weeks or so, much less taking time for a play-date with other moms. I wondered aloud to Martin, as to why I can't seem to do it all... I guess I never will have it all done. Maybe if I had a month of Sundays...
Typically during a night like this, conversation ranges from silly to nostalgic, serious to taboo, but there's almost always a deeper reflective moment. This past week, at Kubutos, we dodged a flying shrimp tail while we discussed a couple of movies. (Neither of which I have seen, I might add). I've seen the previews of the movie Click, but we were talking about how quickly life speeds by... even without the fast-forward. Afterall, it was just a short 8 years ago, us girls were wild and crazy Maple Girls (my sister-in-law recently mentioned she thought I was in a sorority- I guess I was, in our own version). Now, most of us have kids, and some of us a whopping 2 KIDS.
My comment was that a couple years ago, while I was working full time... I found myself every day wishing it was Friday afternoon so I could go home, and veg with the family. Until one day- I realized- I was missing out on what Monday thru Friday had to offer. I was so busy wishing for the weekend, that I was slowly wishing my life away. I changed my mind-set after that. I didn't want to live like that anymore. After leaving the girls that night, I felt so content.
Today, that's not really the case. Sometimes I feel like I just run from one thing to another... only to feel like at the end of the day, I've accomplished nothing of any importance. The house is still a mess, laundry still needs to be done, and my TO DO list far outweighs my DONE list.
I hate to whine, but some moms seem like they have it all together... and still have time for play-dates; while I feel guilty for taking too long of a shower, or sneaking in a nap every couple weeks or so, much less taking time for a play-date with other moms. I wondered aloud to Martin, as to why I can't seem to do it all... I guess I never will have it all done. Maybe if I had a month of Sundays...
Tuesday, October 3, 2006
He Thinks
He thinks that no one notices
that he is up before the sun... but I do.
He thinks that no one realizes
he runs off of the caffeine from his coffee,
and the drive to provide for his family... but I do.
He sometimes goes all day with only one meal,
no time to eat, or, at 10 pm, he's too tired.
He thinks no one knows... but I do.
He sometimes works 10, 11, 12 hour days,
sometimes longer,
and thinks no one appreciates it... but I do.
End of the day,
he still goes in to see his oldest sleeping,
gives the youngest the last bottle-
just to have a couple minutes with them.
He thinks that doesn't count... but I do.
He would rather spend time
with us than out at fancy dinner,
or living the crazy "fun" life...
most of them don't understand, but I do.
He thinks no one knows
that at the heart of it all,
lies a heart that loves his God and family,
and aims to please both... but I do.
that he is up before the sun... but I do.
He thinks that no one realizes
he runs off of the caffeine from his coffee,
and the drive to provide for his family... but I do.
He sometimes goes all day with only one meal,
no time to eat, or, at 10 pm, he's too tired.
He thinks no one knows... but I do.
He sometimes works 10, 11, 12 hour days,
sometimes longer,
and thinks no one appreciates it... but I do.
End of the day,
he still goes in to see his oldest sleeping,
gives the youngest the last bottle-
just to have a couple minutes with them.
He thinks that doesn't count... but I do.
He would rather spend time
with us than out at fancy dinner,
or living the crazy "fun" life...
most of them don't understand, but I do.
He thinks no one knows
that at the heart of it all,
lies a heart that loves his God and family,
and aims to please both... but I do.
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
102.8
102.8.
Great. I had a feeling when I woke up yesterday, and saw Mason's not-so-clean nose, and light cough. I have officially developed a mother instinct, I guess. Coen's had a cold, so I figured it was just that summer cold everyone's passing around, and didn't think to much of it. By 5:30pm, though, he's lying on the couch watching "Darth Mal movie" (Star Wars Episode 1). I look over, and instantly recognize that glassy-eyed look that usually comes with a fever. I grabbed our new, handy-dandy digital ear thermometer, and within about 3 seconds, I had confirmed my fears. 102.8.
Wow, that's a little high for me. So, I instantly kick into "mommy mode" and hook him up with some Motrin, as well as a Pedialyte cooler that we keep on standby. Having a sick child in the house with a newborn is a first for me, so I give him the lecture on staying away from Coen. As if it will do any good. "We'll all end up with it by Friday," I thought. We still might.
I stroke his head of hair, and tell him we'll get him all fixed up. He instantly tones down his usual four year self, and becomes the baby he's quickly outgrowing, again. It made me think. How quickly he will outgrow his need for me. How quickly the day will come when his wife will put him to bed, and help him fight a cold. It made me nostalgic. It made me even treasure the fact that he is a little sick, just a bit. I thought to myself, that when he's sick, he loves to be held, and taken care of, and Mommy is just about the best thing in the world.
He told me and Martin last night (in so many words), "I hate being sick- I'm going to miss school and karate tomorrow." Yet, these are times of his life when he'll look back, and remember how Mommy and Daddy took care of him when he was sick, and maybe even think fondly on these days. I must say that thinking of these things made it a little easier to get out of bed at 4:00, and then at 5 something, and then at 6:30 to feed Coen. How little time I will have to do these things.
I also thought that this must be the way God looks at us, as His children. He really hates to see us get sick, or be sad, or have a trial in our life, but He will use the opportunity to "pull us into His lap", hold us close, and teach us things. The older I get, the more I look to God to be my Father. Not just a God with white hair, long beard, big stick- waiting for me to mess up. It's awful, but I think that's how we sometimes see Him. I'm learning to see His love in everything.
God has used this song by Natalie Grant several times in my life. Please read the lyrics. It makes me think of Our Father wanting to hold us, and bring us close.
Great. I had a feeling when I woke up yesterday, and saw Mason's not-so-clean nose, and light cough. I have officially developed a mother instinct, I guess. Coen's had a cold, so I figured it was just that summer cold everyone's passing around, and didn't think to much of it. By 5:30pm, though, he's lying on the couch watching "Darth Mal movie" (Star Wars Episode 1). I look over, and instantly recognize that glassy-eyed look that usually comes with a fever. I grabbed our new, handy-dandy digital ear thermometer, and within about 3 seconds, I had confirmed my fears. 102.8.
Wow, that's a little high for me. So, I instantly kick into "mommy mode" and hook him up with some Motrin, as well as a Pedialyte cooler that we keep on standby. Having a sick child in the house with a newborn is a first for me, so I give him the lecture on staying away from Coen. As if it will do any good. "We'll all end up with it by Friday," I thought. We still might.
I stroke his head of hair, and tell him we'll get him all fixed up. He instantly tones down his usual four year self, and becomes the baby he's quickly outgrowing, again. It made me think. How quickly he will outgrow his need for me. How quickly the day will come when his wife will put him to bed, and help him fight a cold. It made me nostalgic. It made me even treasure the fact that he is a little sick, just a bit. I thought to myself, that when he's sick, he loves to be held, and taken care of, and Mommy is just about the best thing in the world.
He told me and Martin last night (in so many words), "I hate being sick- I'm going to miss school and karate tomorrow." Yet, these are times of his life when he'll look back, and remember how Mommy and Daddy took care of him when he was sick, and maybe even think fondly on these days. I must say that thinking of these things made it a little easier to get out of bed at 4:00, and then at 5 something, and then at 6:30 to feed Coen. How little time I will have to do these things.
I also thought that this must be the way God looks at us, as His children. He really hates to see us get sick, or be sad, or have a trial in our life, but He will use the opportunity to "pull us into His lap", hold us close, and teach us things. The older I get, the more I look to God to be my Father. Not just a God with white hair, long beard, big stick- waiting for me to mess up. It's awful, but I think that's how we sometimes see Him. I'm learning to see His love in everything.
God has used this song by Natalie Grant several times in my life. Please read the lyrics. It makes me think of Our Father wanting to hold us, and bring us close.
"HELD"
Two months is too little
They let him go
They had no sudden healing
To think that providence
Would take a child from his mother
While she prays, is appalling
Who told us we’d be rescued
What has changed and
Why should we be saved from nightmares
Were asking why this happens to us
Who have died to live, it’s unfair
This is what it means to be held
How it feels, when the sacred is torn from your life
And you survive
This is what it is to be loved and to know
That the promise was that when everything fell
We’d be held
This hand is bitterness
We want to taste it and
Let the hatred numb our sorrows
The wise hand opens slowly
To lilies of the valley and tomorrow
This is what it means to be held
How it feels, when the sacred is torn from your life
And you survive
This is what it is to be loved and to know
That the promise was that when everything fell
We’d be held
If hope if born of suffering
If this is only the beginning
Can we not wait, for one hour
Watching for our savior
This is what it means to be held
How it feels, when the sacred is torn from your life
And you survive
This is what it is to be loved and to know
That the promise was that when everything fell
We’d be held
Saturday, September 16, 2006
Another hair cut???!!??
Today was our (Martin, Mason, Coen, and myself) day to spend with Tim. Mom had a wedding reception to cater, and Andrew and Dad would be assisting. Naturally, I hopped on the opportunity, and went to get Tim. I felt kind of bad, because usually, when we do these type things, we take Tim, AND Andrew. But, Andrew was getting paid to work, and his girlfriend, Cassie would be working, too, so I think he was probably happier where he was.
Tim had planned to sleep in, and I guess in the Marine world, he did. He said he woke Andrew up at 5am, and they went for a run. Sounds like fun. Maybe if he was living at my house, I'd be a little thinner.
Anyway, we picked him up, and decided we were going to head over to Concord Mills (our huge outlet mall, right outside of Charlotte). I thought it might be a good place because there's games, and a movie theater, AND shopping, so I knew he wouldn't be bored. Even a trip to the mall is not simple with 2 kids, so after loading both strollers, and a very packed diaper bag, we headed over.
Tim said he wanted to be back home by 8, so he could catch the season premiere of his favorite show. We asked him if there was anything he wanted to do, and he said he wanted to get a hair cut. Go figure. There's hardly any hair left to begin with. He asked if we minded, and I said, "Well, it's not like it's going to take that long.... there's not much there to cut." He said he felt better afterwards. Okay.
We had some very yummy burgers at Backyard Burger, and then finally after the drive, unloading the car, and one stop at the bathroom, we were ready to check out the mall. I joked that the neon lights, sounds, and asthetic overload might be too much for him. He seemed to handle it well, and one of the first stores we stopped in at was a knife/sword store. Tim was in heaven. Apparently, he LOVES cutlery. Not really, just swords. Anyway, he bought some Asian sword display thingy with two swords and a dagger. I've never seen a smile so big on his face. He wasn't really interested in the mall much after that.
Tim seems different, but the same. It seemed like it took a while for him to fall back into his old self, but by the end of the day, he was joking around again. We had good quality time. I needed that.
We also grilled steaks on the grill before I had to take him home. Martin pulled off perfect steaks and pasta. I slaved over a couple of pieces of store-bought frozen lemon pie, that Tim requested.
My poor husband is probably feeling a little neglected with all this fuss over my little brother. Actually, I know he's not. He said he knows Tim's only here for 10 days, and he's okay with me spending as much time as possible with him.
Thanks everyone for your nice words for me, and Tim. A girl's pretty lucky to have such a great family as I do, AND good friends, to boot.
Today was our (Martin, Mason, Coen, and myself) day to spend with Tim. Mom had a wedding reception to cater, and Andrew and Dad would be assisting. Naturally, I hopped on the opportunity, and went to get Tim. I felt kind of bad, because usually, when we do these type things, we take Tim, AND Andrew. But, Andrew was getting paid to work, and his girlfriend, Cassie would be working, too, so I think he was probably happier where he was.
Tim had planned to sleep in, and I guess in the Marine world, he did. He said he woke Andrew up at 5am, and they went for a run. Sounds like fun. Maybe if he was living at my house, I'd be a little thinner.
Anyway, we picked him up, and decided we were going to head over to Concord Mills (our huge outlet mall, right outside of Charlotte). I thought it might be a good place because there's games, and a movie theater, AND shopping, so I knew he wouldn't be bored. Even a trip to the mall is not simple with 2 kids, so after loading both strollers, and a very packed diaper bag, we headed over.
Tim said he wanted to be back home by 8, so he could catch the season premiere of his favorite show. We asked him if there was anything he wanted to do, and he said he wanted to get a hair cut. Go figure. There's hardly any hair left to begin with. He asked if we minded, and I said, "Well, it's not like it's going to take that long.... there's not much there to cut." He said he felt better afterwards. Okay.
We had some very yummy burgers at Backyard Burger, and then finally after the drive, unloading the car, and one stop at the bathroom, we were ready to check out the mall. I joked that the neon lights, sounds, and asthetic overload might be too much for him. He seemed to handle it well, and one of the first stores we stopped in at was a knife/sword store. Tim was in heaven. Apparently, he LOVES cutlery. Not really, just swords. Anyway, he bought some Asian sword display thingy with two swords and a dagger. I've never seen a smile so big on his face. He wasn't really interested in the mall much after that.
Tim seems different, but the same. It seemed like it took a while for him to fall back into his old self, but by the end of the day, he was joking around again. We had good quality time. I needed that.
We also grilled steaks on the grill before I had to take him home. Martin pulled off perfect steaks and pasta. I slaved over a couple of pieces of store-bought frozen lemon pie, that Tim requested.
My poor husband is probably feeling a little neglected with all this fuss over my little brother. Actually, I know he's not. He said he knows Tim's only here for 10 days, and he's okay with me spending as much time as possible with him.
Thanks everyone for your nice words for me, and Tim. A girl's pretty lucky to have such a great family as I do, AND good friends, to boot.
Friday, September 15, 2006
Been There, Done that... my experience at Parris Island, SC
Been there, Done that, got the bumper sticker....
As you may know, this is a week that my family and I waited for a very long time. 13 weeks, to be exact. I actually did get a bumper sticker... it says, "My brother fights for our freedom... He is a U.S. Marine", and a yellow ribbon magnet for my car "Keep my brother safe". We made a little ceremony out of putting the magnet on my car, when I got home, (Mason and I did). I'm actually going to make the bumper sticker a magnet, too. Here is my account (in a nutshell) of the three days we spent at Parris Island, SC, while we were there to pick up our new Marine, PFC Tim D.
What I expected: a nice setting, but drab, military buildings...
What I got: Sunrise, AND Sunset views while driving over the bridge coming and going to Parris Island. Marsh lands, but beautiful with the sun reflecting off the water.
What I expected: a brief look at military life.
What I got: the constant echo of "Aye, Ma'am!" or "Aye, Sir!" ringing in my head, even 7 hours after we left. A piece of a culture that I will always carry with me. The feeling that I should be marching in time.
What I expected: my little brother turned man.
What I got: a very lean (I'm talking slim), matured man. One comment from him, "When I was upset at someone, I just thought 'Marine Discipline', and walked away". Maybe I need to take a lesson.
What I expected: pride in one of my baby brothers.
What I got: In addition to my pride in my brother- I found more pride in my flag, my country. I've always been pretty proud of being American, but as the colors were brought forward during the Eagle, Globe and Anchor Ceremony, I found myself crying as I thought of all the men and women who've paid a price for those colors. And their families. And I thought, "I BELIEVE in this country, what it stands for, and that flag; because my brother is willing to lay down his life for it."
What I expected: a little emotion at the ceremonies.
What I got: a lump in my throat that doesn't seem to go away. The lump is the pride and tears of pride I feel for him. I think it might be there for a couple days, at least.
What I expected: Tim would be happy to see us.
What I got: a tear sliding down his cheek, while he hugged our mom for the first time in 13 weeks. I don't know if she saw it.
What I expected: an emotional Graduation ceremony.
What I got: a nice, formal Graduation ceremony with pretty nice weather. A very emotional Eagle, Globe and Anchor Ceremony- a shining moment for Tim, and the feelings of my patriotism for this country and love for a brother, bubbling up.
What I expected: a new Marine, ready to chow down.
What I got: a new Marine, ready to chow down. He grabbed that bag of Doritos so fast, I couldn't believe it. I scored a home run by supplying Twix bars and Snickers. His first meal of choice, off base- a Subway 12" pizza sub. Another new female Marine had the same idea, as she and her family came in shortly after.
What I expected: a new-found pride in my changed family.
What I got: a kinship with families all across the country. As I sat through both ceremonies, I thought of the families of the 1 million previous Marines, as well as the military families acrosthe country. I feel like I am a part of something bigger. "The greatest use of life is to spend it for something that will outlast it." (See Matthew 6:20).
What I expected: a smooth, relaxing visit to see and pick up our new Marine.
What I got: a action-packed, not so relaxing visit to see and pick up our new Marine- Complete with the usual family bickering. To which, while we were bickering under a big oak tree, with our picnic of hot dogs at the rifle range, Tim said, "I've missed this soooo much. "
What I expected: a changed Tim.
What I got: a changed me.
View the photo gallery here, or email me to get access:
http://www.kodakgallery.com/Slideshow.jsp?&conn_speed=1&collid=68695039311.51344039311.1158371772905&mode=fromsite
Monday, September 11, 2006
I have decided to try out this blog thing. I've always liked to journal, but with two kids, I haven't done it in so long. This might be good, because I can type much faster than I write. I feel a little like Doogie Houser, M.D. though. Hee, hee.
Today is Monday, September 11. I was hoping to purchase a new American flag, but didn't get a chance to do so, so I had Martin put out our old one. It's really in bad shape, faded from the sun, and all, but I felt like it was better to fly that one, than none at all, on this day.
The TV is filled with numerous documentaries, commentaries, and programs about 9/11. As if we'd all forgotten. I know some have, but I am a very passionate person, and letting go of the memory might be something that never happens for me. I am tired of hearing everyone blame everyone else for 9/11. Those terrorists will find a way, no matter what we do. They have given themselves completely and blindly to a religion that will not deliver what it promises. I actually find myself sad for them. Once they realize the mistakes they're making it will be too late for them. I am so thankful that my God is the God of love.
We got a phone call from the infamous Tim yesterday afternoon. My mom was ecstatic, of course. I was excited to hear from him, too. Mom and Dad got two of the extensions, and the third was passed between myself, Rebekah and Andrew a few times. Poor Tim could hardly get a word in edge-wise. We are all so proud of him. I asked him if it was okay for us to do digital pictures of his face to put on pop-sicle sticks for the moto-run, and he said the DI's had already made threats about that. We did warn him that we're bringing signs. He'll just have to deal with that.
I hope that he graduates the Marine Corps with the confidence that so many do. He has earned it. He has every reason to be proud of himself. I know I could NEVER do what he's done.
With vacation upon us, it's been so nice having Martin home with me today. It's great to have the support system. We went ahead and sent Mason to preschool today- he had fun- apparently, they ate apple things today. He seems to really be enjoying it this year. Coen seems to be doing everything fast! He's three months old, and already rolling from his back to tummy, and reaching and grabbing things. The smiles and laughs are irreplaceable.
Today is Monday, September 11. I was hoping to purchase a new American flag, but didn't get a chance to do so, so I had Martin put out our old one. It's really in bad shape, faded from the sun, and all, but I felt like it was better to fly that one, than none at all, on this day.
The TV is filled with numerous documentaries, commentaries, and programs about 9/11. As if we'd all forgotten. I know some have, but I am a very passionate person, and letting go of the memory might be something that never happens for me. I am tired of hearing everyone blame everyone else for 9/11. Those terrorists will find a way, no matter what we do. They have given themselves completely and blindly to a religion that will not deliver what it promises. I actually find myself sad for them. Once they realize the mistakes they're making it will be too late for them. I am so thankful that my God is the God of love.
We got a phone call from the infamous Tim yesterday afternoon. My mom was ecstatic, of course. I was excited to hear from him, too. Mom and Dad got two of the extensions, and the third was passed between myself, Rebekah and Andrew a few times. Poor Tim could hardly get a word in edge-wise. We are all so proud of him. I asked him if it was okay for us to do digital pictures of his face to put on pop-sicle sticks for the moto-run, and he said the DI's had already made threats about that. We did warn him that we're bringing signs. He'll just have to deal with that.
I hope that he graduates the Marine Corps with the confidence that so many do. He has earned it. He has every reason to be proud of himself. I know I could NEVER do what he's done.
With vacation upon us, it's been so nice having Martin home with me today. It's great to have the support system. We went ahead and sent Mason to preschool today- he had fun- apparently, they ate apple things today. He seems to really be enjoying it this year. Coen seems to be doing everything fast! He's three months old, and already rolling from his back to tummy, and reaching and grabbing things. The smiles and laughs are irreplaceable.
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