Organized Everyday

something new and different..

2012-01-27T07:10:00.000-08:00

I have WAY too many thoughts at times. And this week was no exception. I had to sit down and literally write out a list of everything I was thinking about just to focus on one of them.

checkbook: lost
red sweater: lost
no milk
dungeon-mess
grades
discipleship
ham bone
..

and the list went on. and on. and on.

But somehow getting it on paper seemed to help. It didn't get anything done, but it contained it all on a piece of paper.

And rather than deciding what to do, I just decided what not to do. Things like checkbooks and sweaters eventually turn up. But nobody finds a fresh gallon of milk in the fridge accidentally. And the lack of order in the dungeon IS a problem but it is not as large of a problem as wasting a perfectly good ham bone because I was too busy to make soup.

And so soup gets made and milk gets purchased, but I'm still not certain where the planner is.

And then I had this really cool revelation.

Maybe I have too much going on?

Naw! ya think?!!

yup. It's happened again. Something new and different--the organizing mommy has to regroup and re-evaluate again!! Didn't we JUST do this? Uffda.

The fresh, newly found energy that I found in the fall is waning in the winter. Today it is sunny, and I'm sure I'll have a good day because of it. But those cloudy days really do me in. I think my husband has ordered me some kind of light to help with this.

I'll call it a "grow light"like the kind you put on little plants to get them growing before you put them in the garden. And I'm already chomping at the bit to get outside and plant a garden. It's that crazy layer of snow that is holding me back.

So, with all of this to look forward to in a few months, I need to stay focused on my other (inside) work so I can enjoy the spring when it does come.

Without further ado, the organizing mommy shut off her computer, got dressed, put on sensible shoes, had a decent breakfast and blitzed her life back in order. The end. And she found her planner, her checkbook, the red sweater and several dollars of loose change (O.K. that last one may not happen, but I can hope) !!

Oh Happy Day... 43!

2012-01-21T17:28:00.000-08:00

O.K. the Organizing Mommy is one year older. And this is what I look like right now, this month, at the ripe old age of 43. I asked my daughter to take this picture to highlight the jewelry she made for me. She let's me pick out the beads, and she makes the creation. What is more special? Having a cool piece of jewelry? or a daughter who is that talented?

So, other than the 74 facebook birthday greetings I got, does anybody want to know what I got?

Take a guess.

A car?

No.

A new house?

No.

A chicken coop?

No. My mother forbids me from getting a chicken coop. She is paying me not to raise chickens.

That's pretty awesome because I got my payment. For some odd reason, it was $43.00. My next year's payment for not raising chickens will probably be $44.00. just guessin'

So, if I didn't get a car, a house or a chicken coop, what's left in life to want?

Remember THIS story where the ONLY THING in the whole wide world that I have every regretted getting rid of? those favorite grey yoga pants. I got rid of them on a fat-girl day. It was an impulsive blitzing fat-girl day when I made the gross error of disposing of the yoga pants into the donation pile.

When I woke up out of my stupor, I had already donated that bag. Bye bye forever favorite yoga pants.

Well... it was my actual birthday and I stopped in at one of the thrift stores and was looking for cashmere for a craft.... and I found them. The exact brand, color and size of my favorite grey yoga pants. I'm tellin' ya. Did I hug on to those $3.29 pants like nobody's business..!!

So, when I told this story to my husband, he said, "So, you bought back the pants you donated? That's not very efficient."

Totally not efficient. Except that now I have them back.

And I am reminded of a truth that I heard a while back.

Happiness is not having what you want--it's about wanting what you have.

And sometimes.. if we accidentally loosen the reigns on something enough, we'll find out what we want and have, and gap between the two will lessen. So, what I have received, in essence, on my special day is more than a pair of yoga pants. It is the answered prayer of finding that which was lost and having it so vividly displayed to me in God's creative provision.

Who wudda thunk?

2012-01-20T07:36:00.000-08:00

A tired woman flopped her blonde ponytail over the counter, as her eyes gazed downward toward the floor. Her one hand rested on the counter and her other hand adjusted the double mechanism that held the life-giving nutrients for her baby. The mechanism made a certain pulsating sound, methodically yet faithfully pumping her life's energy into the two little bottles that would feed her baby tomorrow.

The young woman was tired. I knew that feeling. I remember thinking of a huge checklist of things I needed to do when I was done feeding that baby. At the top of the list was always eat and sleep.

But for this woman, it was different. She wore a red badge. The counter was the women's locker room. Her eating and sleeping would have to wait. She probably had a 4:00 meeting. When she got home, she had to fix dinner or read to her little boy.

So, while I was getting myself ready to teach my pilates class, I smiled at her and made conversation. To lighten up the awkwardness, I said,

"I fed five of them. Two million gallons later, I'm still here to talk about it.."

To which the normal response is "Wow!" and then a barrage of questions.

And I answer them, encouraging her in what she is doing for her baby. Granted, I'm not a la leche league activist or something. I'm just a mom who knows what its like to make sacrifices for her children and family. Taking time every day to go down and pump (twice a day!) is a huge commitment.

And if you had told me (even 10 years ago) that I would somehow be in the locker room encouraging working mothers, I would have been shocked. Wasn't it my duty to somehow be on a crusade to get everyone home with their children, homeschooling, supporting their husbands??

And yet, here I am. I never once chastised her or even insinuated that what she is doing is wrong. In fact, I just tried to be an encouragement. And God gave me the freedom and peace to do just that. (And she told me so!)

So, what's the change? Do I no longer believe in moms staying home or homeschooling for example..?? How far have I come off the wagon anyway?

If I've come off the wagon (at all) it is to this end-- to stop promoting my crusades and start promoting the Gospel of Christ. And trust me, I always have a crusade. If it is not pilates or organization or educating your children or feeding them better or reading aloud or .... (whatever this week's crusade is). In fact, a week without a new crusade means I'm sick or depressed or something.

So, I have to work against many things (internally) to just come apart from all of that and just feel the pain of someone like my little friend from the locker room. I don't even know her name. I can tell you the name of her husband and children, though. That is where her heart is, and that is who she talked about. I can tell you the sacrifices they have made to take care of these children in addition to the daily pumping.

And so it is. Do I think by my loving and caring for this little gal that there will be a mass exodus of stay at home moms into the workforce? No. If anyone is tempted to do such a thing, let me say this. I have hardly ever met a young woman, working full time,who wouldn't love to be able to be at home with her little ones, even part time. So crusading and preaching does no good here. Their own exhaustion is their teacher. And the degree to which their needs v.s. wants have dictated this decision is theirs to bear alone.

And so now, against all rationale, I have an outreach with career mommies. Who wudda thunk?

Shockingly effective

2012-01-16T18:13:00.000-08:00

I would not consider myself to be the "camel knees" prayer warrior of the century. In fact, God has been so gracious as to answer my paltry prayers that I should be one of the last people to actually comment about the effectiveness of prayer. Nevertheless, here I am.

And here is something that even I doubted would ever really happen.

I have this friend (Janine) who is connected with this very zealous prayer group that literally (for years!) has been gathering at the local abortion clinic to pray and reach out to those coming and going from that facility. And this clinic was unusual in their efforts to be anti-religious in its efforts. They had the "creativity" to display signs and other offensive objects that left no one to doubt their animosity toward the prayer warriors.

Although I have thought it a worthy cause, I have never actually joined this group in their prayers or outreaches. So, I can take no personal credit for this. But I can actually say that a miracle has happened.

The abortion clinic has closed. As of now, Rockford has no abortion clinic. And the only reasonable explanation is the prayers of those zealous people outside the clinic.

And all I can think of is "Wow" and "Wow!"

And when I think about it, did I ever actually think it would happen? No. I assumed that God would reach the souls of these people inside and outside the clinic through those prayers. But I didn't actually think it would close. And it makes me realize anew the sovereignty of God. When something the enemy has planned is wicked, and God wants to put an end to that wickedness, he can--whenever and wherever he chooses. Why did we ever doubt?

And right now, the enemy is working overtime to put an innocent man in prison. His trial is this week. If he is found guilty, he could be in prison for a long time. But what if.. he isn't guilty?

There are certain crimes in our country for which a trumped up charge of guilt makes it impossible to appear innocent without divine intervention. How do you prove one's innocence??

You can't. So, it takes a unique intervention from God, And prayers. I, for one, am going to be praying this week. And I am expecting God to hear my prayers. I am expecting a miracle. I believe that prayer is nothing short of shockingly effective.

Skinny jeans dissertation #1

2012-01-12T10:36:00.000-08:00

"This style of jean doesn’t flatter everyone, and is really best worn by those who are thinner than average. The tapered leg can make even medium sized hips look fairly large, and larger hips may look very large with this style. Wearing pants that fit well is important to showcase your figure to its best advantage, and wider leg styles are often better suited to people with medium or large hips. Fortunately these styles remain popular and the skinny jean appears to come in and out of style, but isn’t worn by everyone even when it is fashionable." quoted directly from Wisegeek

So, let's review here.

1) The skinny jean look goes in and out of style. As a former '80s gal, I have a hard time imagining skinny jeans in any other image than Bon Jovi gyrating around the stage with his full blonde mullet. So, I can't say that this is a good memory. For some of you, you may see the 80's as sort of an iconic time in history. I tend to view it as a necessary evil, in respect to guy's fashions. As far as girl's fashions go, I was a willowy 110 pounds (same height as I am today) and could and did wear everything. So, I suspect that the tapered leg thing was my favorite thing also.

2) The body type determines whether one looks good or bad in a pair of skinny jeans. For those who look good, I wonder if they don't look a little too good. And for those who do not look good... why not be comfortable?

3)Too tight! Even if I could find a pair that fit and happened to look decent, my only fear is that someone would be drawn to look at my hind quarters which aren't as bad as they could be for my age. I suspect those intelligent young men (yesterday) that were throwing me cat calls out of their window as I was crossing the street know a good woman even without the advantage of the skinny jeans silhouette. But I digress... (The young people are very dumb these days, but that is for a different rant on a different day..)

4) uncomfortable! My overdeveloped leg muscles are screaming at me. Skinny means just that--skinny! Not muscular. Not fat. just skinny. And we're not even talking about my mommy tummy.

5) And why is skinny such a good thing anyway? When I was skinny, I wasn't doing anything extreme to be that way. Now that I'm a little chunkier, I find that I prefer it. I call myself a "preferable wife for the pioneer days"--I won't be blown away by the first flu epidemic. But there is a balance. While skinnier isn't always better--neither is heavier. The trend is toward skinnier because most Americans are so well fed.

6) which is precisely why.. skinny jeans are just not an option for me or my peers, except for a few of my skinny friends who happen to look good in them--the twigs, the branches and quaking aspens.. For those girls, please have a pair in every color and length. For the rest of us, I'm not necessarily advocating an entire wardrobe of muu-muu dresses, but.... think twice. just sayin.

The NO-brainer wardrobe

2012-01-10T18:12:00.000-08:00

"If you can be confident in how you look and content in your circumstances, you are a mighty force to be reckoned with. " one of my favorite quotes from a great new ebook called: the No-Brainer Wardrobe by the "tiny twig"i.e. Hayley Morgan.

What a fun read! She doesn't know it, but she is definitely an organizing mommy!! She's got the clothing issues wired, and I am happy to have been thus informed. I encourage you to buy this ebook (I can say that, right? I'm not getting paid to write a review or anything..)

So, let me give you an organizing mommy sketch of the goods-- not enough to plagarize--but just enough to whet your whistle.

So, what does this tiny twig have to say about picking out clothing? and keeping it orderly? Well, first off, you should know--she IS a tiny twig--size 0. I'm not inclined to trust anyone who is a size 0 under normal circumstances, but I have to say that it isn't her fault. She has had children and I assume she eats. We really can't fault her for being a twig. But does the twig know how to give advice to let's say.. branches.. or trunks.. or an ancient hemlock.. for example..??

Yes, she does. Her suggestions are timeless and frugal. She even has a special section for plus sized gals. (I'm assuming the size 6 girls? and above?) Either way, you will be encouraged-- not discouraged. I love her idea of a capsule wardrobe, finding your personal style, and putting together outfits ahead of time.
There are even some fun activities to do to help you discover your style.. fun stuff.

I really love her suggestions about how to dress as you get older.. (like over 35? I'm guessing) And I am surprised to say that these are things that I have just started doing more naturally, without having read and read about what to do. The basic concept is not "dress your age" but "embrace your classiness and confidence" Oh yeah.

This has been my experience. Ever since my late 30's/ early 40's, I have really enjoyed dressing better and looking better than when I was younger. And it's not that I actually DO look better, but I just feel better--more confident-- (can I say it?) even sexier?? (Egad. I didn't say that.) You didn't read that here. Oops my inner Ukrainian woman just came out.

Moving on.. The one disagreement I have with the author is the assertion that everyone looks good in skinny jeans. I'm sure SHE looks good in skinny jeans, but I can't think of anyone else who does. I think they are horrible on every level. But I'm not going to fault the girl on that. When she's 40 and sexier, she'll know that skinny jeans are just not good for anyone. LOL.

My other (personal) problem I have with the book is not the information or the concepts or the writing--all of that was great. What I am wondering how I will EVER be able to do is wear the same combination of clothes TWICE!! Let alone three or more times. This is not a fault with the book--just my own hangup. I love the endless artistic drama of getting outfits together.

This makes for a very crowded closet and an endless shopping habit. So you see, I'm the kind of person who needs this book. Whether you are feeling like you don't have enough clothes or too many clothes, the issues are made clear. Thank you Tiny Twig for writing the No-Brainer Wardrobe.

Daily drama

2012-01-07T20:11:00.000-08:00

Is it cruel to bust a gut over the crazy things your kids say? I hope not because I find so much entertainment from it.

Scenario #1: We're sitting around the table talking over the day's events. Jamie just left to go back to school today. He was to meet up with Shawn at the Potbelly restaurant where we all enjoyed a lunch together before the boys launched north. Shawn has just had major knee surgery over the break and his family was trying to graciously remind (Jamie) how tender his knee was in order to garner some sympathy for his situation. And they insinuated as much that he was a little worried about getting caught in one of the rough-housing escapades that the cadets like to snarl themselves into. Boys will be boys, you know...

So, I was explaining this (somewhat humorous) conversation to the family at dinner. "And Shawn was hoping not to be in the middle of these shenanigans that the boys like to pull on each other.."

And Emily pipes up, "What are the Canadians going to do to Shawn?"

That's right, Emily. Shawn is hoping to avoid all Canadians at school--but especially the Canadian shenanigans...

So, Jamie went back to school today. The Dad and highschool kids were at Robotics. The middle schooler was at music, and Mommy is recovering from her (hurt me!) trip to Chicago.

It's tough, but someone had to go pick up Will from Moody. So, after my deep tissue massage, I drove into Chicago and arrived around dinnertime on Thursday.

We had found this great middle-eastern restaurant Kan Zaman which is our new "fave" for downtown Chicago dining. Whenever Will goes to Moody, he always makes a trip there. I need to learn how to make falafel they way they do. The students always seem to get a good rate at: Best Western Riverside North, which is where we spent the night. Although I would probably go through priceline if I were not so picky about location. This is walking distance to Moody and all of the downtown things.

The next day Will had class all day, so I slept in, enjoyed the quiet and found some lunch at walked to the Chicago Art Institute and spent the day there. It has been a while ( 20 years?) since I've been there.

But it's amazing how perspective changes. I distinctly remember the impressionists making a profound impact on me when I first visited it. Since then, I've been to the Musee D'Orsay in Paris and plenty of time to try to discover if I really do like Degas, Renoir, Van Gogh, and of course, Monet. And time has not changed my good opinion of either. In fact, it has heightened it. I don't think I'll be satisfied until I can make a pilgrimage to Giverny, France where Monet spent all of his time and found his inspiration for his work. Can there be a better painting (or series of paintings) than Waterlilies??

And all of my trouncing around in different countries has given me a little bit of appreciation for ancient sculpture and pottery, but no amount of traveling, reading or trouncing will ever give me a like for modern art. It is just as awful as I remember it. No. The only thing that gives you an appreciation for modern art is a strong hallucinogen and a reclusive melancholic tendency, neither of which I intend to acquire a love for over the span of my short life.

So, if you do plan on visiting the Art Institute of Chicago, go directly the second floor for the impressionists, the realists, and the American folk art is worth seeing also. The midwestern-sentiment is captured so humorously in Grant Wood's American Gothic. And there are a handful of Georgia O'Keefe's works that are always a delight. And the best news is yet to come: Admission is free for Illinois residents during the weekdays for the month of January!

So, with tired feet but a happy heart, I walked back to the hotel, but not before a short trip into the Eddie Bauer and the Starbucks on the way--to rest my feet, of course.. And a quick bite of Thai food before making the journey homeward. And to think I have to get back to my housework now... hhmmm....

like she was going to tell me..

2012-01-04T21:43:00.000-08:00

So, I went in for my pilates lesson this week, and my teacher, Frankie said to me, "Hey, you and your daughter are on the cover of the Peak on the Go Newsletter for this month.. you have to get one.."

And the only thing I could say in response was, "Tell me honestly. Did I look fat?"

Like she was going to say, "yeah.. you're huge!" (especially since she is my trainer and all...)

But here's the photo, and I am thankful to say that I do not look huge. Joanna is in the green Tshirt, and I'm right behind her with my dark hair and the pi-la-tEZ T-shirt.

I've lightened my hair since that photo. I was trying out a darker color, and after a few weeks of trying to get used to it, I can say that darker is not better.. Oh well..

There was no particular reason we were chosen except that we were doing something that the photographer thought was cool. And Mr. Photographer, thank you for photoshopping out my fat. I am forever grateful. Next time, could you remove a chin and make me younger? Bless you, my child.

So we're having a contest..

2012-01-03T18:33:00.000-08:00

So we're having a contest. Oh, well.. not a real contest. It's a pretend contest with ourselves.

The rules are simple: get rid of stuff.

The rewards are obvious: have less stuff.

The prizes are: a clean space, a happy home, an efficient lifestyle.

I, personally, would like to know how little I can live on. I would like to get rid of as much as I can--without throwing it in the trash.

Did you organize for one hour today? I did. I organized from 7-8 p.m. And I am about to corral the minions to haul the junk to their appropriate launching stations.

Launch #1: To the school! Yes! I am so glad I work at a school now. (rubbing hands together with a scheming look on my face..)

And I'm fast collecting more things for the school. They actually seem to like everything that I am donating, so it is a win/win as far as I'm concerned.

So far, the school is a great receptical for all of my art supplies, including basket weaving, pottery, fabric paints and glass painting. Oooooooohhh are they going to have fun or what??

And the school has been a great benefactor of my huge and unwieldy collection of kindergarten manipulatives. (O.K. I did not part with the cuisenaire rods..)

Launch #2: freecycle! Yes, there are fabulous people who are willing to come right to my door and collect my stuff. They love it, and I love it. Oh, the cool things they are getting! And if I had used any of these awesome things in the last 10 years, I'd probably feel like I'm missing something, because they are genuinely cool things.

Of course. You know. I ONLY have cool things. LOL. yeah.

So, you must have something cool that you no longer want or need. Bless someone else with your cool stuff. Nobody is going to die if you get rid of something.

In all of my years of getting rid of things, I can only think of one thing that I actually have missed.

Can you guess what it is? A very cool pair of dark grey yoga pants. That's it. A pair of yoga pants that I got from the Goodwill. Why did I get rid of them? I thought I looked fat in them, I guess. Well, I should have just lost weight and kept my favorite pants. Dumb.

But that's it. I can hardly call it a loss, since I have several other yoga pants that are just fine. And probably next week at the Goodwill, I'll see another pair that I like better.

So, are you in? Tell me in the comments what you are currently getting rid of..

Getting organized for the new year!!

2012-01-02T19:29:00.000-08:00

I love love love the new year. I see it as a fresh start to get organized. The holidays are over, and the weather is starting to get colder. I don't feel like I'm missing anything by cleaning, sorting and organizing.

I hope you feel the same way. If not, skip this post. Go read a book or make a mess somewhere..

For the REST of us, let's review the basics.. again.

1. Getting organized is a process not an event.

2. I have this fantasy that the place will eventually STAY organized.

3. It is this and other ephemeral visions that keep me pushing toward the goal.

4. I hate this just as much as you do.

What? Haven't I just told you that I LOVE this? O.K. O.K.... I have a love/ hate relationship with organizing. And I am sure you do too.

Here's what I hate: I hate making decisions about stuff. If I feel emotionally wrapped up in the item, I have a hard time getting rid of it. And then I sit there and agonize about it. And it is very draining.

Here's what I love: the final product of getting and being organized! I love the way it looks when I'm done. I love the way I feel when it looks that way. I like the idea of not wasting time by looking for stuff. I like feeling responsible about my stuff.

So, since there is so much emotional energy wrapped up in the process, I start myself with a goal of: an hour a day until it is done. If I have a lot of energy, I may do more than one hour. With a big house like ours, this takes a while. Generally, the upstairs gets periodic organizing updates throughout the year. But the basement areas will only get hit once a year. And they look pretty bad.

And this year lent itself to a complete disaster when we moved almost everything from the upstairs down to the new basement for the new flooring. And it is amazing how much you don't miss when you don't have it in front of you. And if someone lit a match in my dungeon, I'm really not sure what I would miss. Maybe I should just get rid of everything? Hey. I'm might be on to something..

So, how are you guys doing? Do you organize in the new year? Is your car filled with donation items?
Yeah. mine too.

I said it last year, and this year I really mean it.

Here's to a less prosperous New Year!

goals for the new year..

2012-01-01T17:07:00.000-08:00

Well, the Lord hasn't come for us yet, so we're on for another year.. For those of you who torture yourselves regularly by reading this, thank you for your faithfulness. It warms my heart to have "readers" and fellow bloggers out there.

I was out looking for my last year's New Year's resolutions.. What?! Did I forget to make them? That's pretty lame. No wonder I'm not feeling a sense of accomplishment! I forgot to set some goals!

So, in order to right this wrong, I think I'll make some resolutions. And perhaps it will take me longer than next Thursday to break all of them. On second thought, let's not call them resolutions. Let's just call them goals.

Goals for practical living:

1) To not add any more activities to my life. O.K. that is impossible, but this past year I have added: teaching English at a Christian school AND professional organizing to my schedule. I would like to just keep these jobs and not take on more.

2) To be more purposeful about feeding my family. Of course we eat. But why do I continue to fight menu planning? I wish I could figure this out and find a system that works for me.

3) To continue to exercise and train my own body. I have realized that teaching exercise is not the same as actually exercising. I need to make my own exercise just as purposeful as my teaching.

4) To read. I want to read more actual books. Less fluff and more substance. Somehow I think that the world has to be perfect in order to get me to sit down and read. Life is never going to be perfect.

5) Carry my planner. I have a planner. But half of the time I can't find it. I don't enjoy or have access to electronic planning, so a paper planner needs to happen for me. It's never fun double or triple booking. Thankfully, it only happened a few times this year. Maybe this coming year, it will happen a little less..

6) Love my husband more. How much is "enough love" for someone else? not sure. So, more is always better, I think. When his smile is so big that everyone knows he's happy and well cared for then maybe I'm starting to hit the goal.

Goals for spiritual living:

1) To stop making excuses for Bible memory and actually do it systematically. I had every intention of finishing the first chapter of Hebrews before the new year. Somehow, I am not there yet.

2) To get more involved with my children by praying for them more. Prayer is a weak area for me. So, only have five children. This isn't rocket science. I'm not sure why I am not doing this more.

3) To figure out what silence and solitude means for someone like me. I have heard this is an important spiritual discipline to cultivate.

So, there! Now I have some goals. And I have a year to figure them out, rather than just six days to break the resolutions..

I hope you are going to have a fabulous year in 2012. God is so good. Look forward to enjoying it with you guys..

Joy #3: gift giving

2011-12-29T07:49:00.000-08:00

If then you have been raised with Christ, seek those things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Col 3:1

This past month I have been reading that verse almost every day. It doesn't matter what I had planned to read in the Word that morning, I seem to always end up there.

In a way, that verse and its surrounding friends has been what has prompted all of this talk about joy. There's so much that I want to do in this life! But it all has such a hollow effect when it's not fueled with joy. And there are good things, very good things that can benefit others that we can do.. but we are totally missing the point when we are running on obligation and not on joy.

I know.. because I've had plenty of experience of obligatory stuff. Why do you think I'm so good at drawing these contrasts? I'm an expert in the antithesis. And so are you. We all are. It's called the flesh.

So, I wanted to talk about gift giving. Perhaps, you've already given all of your gifts for the season. But this may be a good time for evaluative reflection.

When it comes to giving gifts, what comes to mind? Something expensive? something homemade? a gift card? what? I am not going to tell you that somehow homemade gifts are more spiritual than expensive gifts or anything like that. What you give for a gift is up to you. If you have more time and talent than money, homemade gifts are a great option. If you happen to have money and no time, then a store bought gift may be just the thing for you. I believe we have freedom in these areas.

Because I am at a non-cluttery stage of life, I prefer to get (and give) something that can be: eaten, consumed, burned down, wilt or die eventually, or folded up digitally. But that's just me.

But if your gift recipients are young and need things, feel free to give them real things like toasters and all that. So that leads me into the series of questions that I like to ask. If need definitions of terms, click here.
The self-aware person asks these questions about gift giving

1. What does the person need?
If the person has no known needs,
2. What does the person prefer? or want?
3. Am I the one who is going to meet that need? or want?
4. How can I honor this person by giving this gift to them?
5. What message is this gift sending to this person? (How will they receive it?)
6. What is my budget on gift giving? Is this too extravagant? Is this too cheap?
7. Would it be a kindness not to give this person a gift at all?

The self-focused person asks these questions/ thinks these thoughts about gift giving

1. They never like anything I get them.
2. They better like this because I spent a lot of money on this.
3. I hope my gift to them is better than what they got me.
4. They are too.. cheap, extravagant, too.... (you fill it in)
5. I can't believe I have to do this..
6. They had better send a thank you card..
7. It's all about me..

I realize that gift giving is one of those quandaries that is not easily solved, and it varies from person to person. I believe that it is God who gives us help in knowing how to do this. I personally find it difficult to do this well. In fact, I feel the least qualified to be writing this, but if you are like me, perhaps, knowing the questions to ask will help you through this.

Because I have becoming increasingly more and more practical as I have grown up, I find it hard to imagine that others aren't at the same stage of life as me. I know many women who say "kitchen items do not make for good gifts.. etc." because they are for the home. As far as I am concerned, a good spatula (or anything that I will use) is better than something that just collects dust. I remember one Valentine's Day when my Dad bought my mother a nice warm pair of Sorrells for the winter weather of the U.P. Romantic? probably not. But she still has them, and that is a good thing in my book.

Will and I have ceased giving each other gifts for the holidays. As far as I can tell, neither of us feels slighted. I guess it is something you grow into as a couple because we always used to give each other gifts. But I wouldn't recommend trying this out on your spouse unless you know for sure they won't feel unloved. "Gift giving" is one of the love languages and you don't want to communicate a lack of love to your spouse by just going cold turkey on this issue. Incidentally, both Will and I score lowest in gift giving when you take those tests about love languages.

Scoring low is precisely why I struggle with this, and it has been a temptation to give up on the whole issue, but God has given me a certain degree of help in this area, and I am constantly learning...

For those of you who struggle with this issue the way I do, I am always finding ways to make this easier, not more complicated. And this year (with three jobs) I found the FTD florist to be my friend, rather than my normal homemade gifts. And I was so thankful when my husband said, "That worked out well. Let's do that again.." So, it's our 20th Christmas as a married couple, and I think we've finally got the formula that works for our family...

Happy Hanukkah

2011-12-26T17:11:00.000-08:00

Joy #2: Holidays

2011-12-21T06:54:00.000-08:00

Since we're so near the holidays--less than a week away from Christmas at the time of this writing--I thought I'd start here. We are in the process of discerning joy from happiness and then defining joy in very specific terms. The joyful person has a self awareness rather than a self focus. (If you want to hear more about either topic, click on the link..)

So, how does this carry itself over into real life? Yes, it is all very fine and well to wake up every morning, read the Bible and start afresh with a new desire to not live in the state of self focus. But sometimes asking yourself the questions regarding each day's events will help keep that perspective.

So, I'm starting with the holidays. Holidays. holidays. holidays. I know, because I am a woman, what this means to the women out there. If we narrow the holiday life down to some basic categories, we can talk about each one. Let's pick: decorating/ home preparation and gift giving and social events.

Decorating and home preparation: I figure almost everyone who reads a blog like this has a small interest in getting their home up to speed during the holidays. Even though the extent of my holiday decorating consists of a string of lights and greenery plopped on the mantel, I'm sure that some of you have taken hours if not days to get your home spiffy. I have my reasons for going sparse during the holidays, but I do not think it is wrong to go all out. Before I go into the questions about each area, I've made some neat discoveries during this soul-searching process.

It is just this: The outward appearance of a self aware person and a self focused person can often look exactly the same. Did you get that? This is, sort of a bummer because now I can't just walk into someone's life and make instant judgements about whether they have a sense of joy or not. Now, I can't judge anymore by appearances. It's only when the heart is revealed that we know one way or the other.

So, I am proposing some questions to ask yourself. They are by no means an exhaustive list. You will find your own set of questions--things that go deeper into your own situation--things that you are searching when you read the Word of God.

So, what is it about decorating and home preparation that reveals something about us?

The self aware person asks these questions:

1. Is my home inviting, friendly, a haven of rest for my family and friends?
2. Does my decorating/ home prep lend itself toward the occasion we are celebrating?
3. Is it safe? Are others going to be inconvenienced in getting around?
4. Can I remain sweet-spirited through the process?
5. Can I sense when enough is enough? and when my family needs a break?
6. Can I stay within my budget and honor my husband in this way?

The self-focused person has these thoughts:

1. I hope my family appreciates all the work I'm doing for them. After all, they didn't help at all.
2. I can't believe how cheap and run-down this house is.
3. These (people) are not going to be happy no matter how perfect the house is..
4. I need more (x,y, z) in order to impress ( whoever).
5. This is a thankless job. What am I? the maid??

So, as you can see, the contrast is huge. Either way, the home of the self-aware and self-focused person will often look very much the same. The spirit of thankfulness is totally absent from the self-focused person. If you struggle with this issue, you are not alone. Here are some thoughts to help you with this issue.

God gave you the home. Many people do not have homes.
God gave you your family. Many people have lost loved ones.
God gave you your friends. True friends do not need to be impressed.
God gave you your budget. A loving family is the best adornment for any home.

I really do not like LONG blog posts, so we'll have to tackle: gift giving and social events for the next session.

Red scarf Christmas with the Piano guys

2011-12-20T09:49:00.000-08:00

What do I like better? The music? the scenery? or the contrast of the bright red scarf? Hhmmmmm.. it's all good.

Joy post #1

2011-12-20T05:28:00.000-08:00

I had a false start with these "joy" posts, and I deleted it. Sorry if you had to read it. :)

After doing more thinking on the topic, I've decided to start with highlighting one important aspect of joyful people--the difference between self-awareness and self-focus.

I would propose that the joyful person has a steady and growing self awareness and an ever decreasing self focus.

So, let's define terms again.

The self awareness is the equivalent of taking a side glance of something through your peripheral vision and quickly summing up the contents.

The self focus is more like taking a direct, head on gaze at something and seeing nothing else.

So, let's go deeper into this. We all have to live in our own bodies. We have our thoughts, our desires, our plans, our dreams. We are the only ones in there. Somehow, we have to deal. And everyone says, "more of Jesus--less of self" but what does that mean? Do we (however briefly) somehow forget that we're human beings? for just an inkling of time.. can we transcend the earthly and just turn into this other state of being?

That sounds kind of strange to me. God made us to have these bodies. Even if it were possible to completely escape the earthly, it sounds more like a miracle than a regular practice. So, then, do we submit to every whim of bodily desires and emotional tendencies? Are we subject to these things? No. that's not it either. There's got to be more.

There's got to be a way to live in these bodies in a godly way-- in a joyful way--and neither neglect nor obsess over the earthly aspects of living. So, with a little bit of contemplation, I have chosen the terms: self-awareness and self-focus. Self awareness is giving the self the attention it needs to be a joyful being. Self focus is an obsessive, unhealthy or sinful focus on self.

You may disagree with me on how I parse the pizza on this issue, but I think most people would embrace the general concepts.

So, with those definitions, let's get to the nitty gritty, shall we? O.K. next post. nitty gritty--enough high brow already!

Now we can talk about joy..

2011-12-14T06:53:00.000-08:00

Joy... three small letters with such a big meaning behind them.

Now that we have defined happy in our previous discussions, we can talk about joy. What? You haven't read about happy yet? Rather than fear "happiness" like the stoics of old, I'd like to entertain the idea that genuine happiness does have a place in our lives. It has the same place as chocolate. It makes for a great dessert--but a lousy meal.

Joy, on the other hand, makes for a great meal. In fact, one could survive for days on end without chocolate and still survive nutritionally (albeit grimly). But hardly a soul could survive on chocolate and nothing else.

That's just the problem. Our society feeds on chocolate. We make "happiness" all there is in this life. Pretty clothing, shallow but pleasurable relationships, expensive homes, high powered cars, entertaining games, decadent food, and aesthetic experience are what fuels our society. It fuels our economy, our advertising, and claims to fuel the very necessities of our souls.

Ah.. but just like intake of sugar makes us hungrier than if we had never eaten anything, so do filling our lives with these "joy imposters" make us crave more of the same. It's a very vicious cycle--not to mention--a very expensive one.

So, then what is this thing-- this non-chocolate thing-- that you call joy??

Well, I would first ascertain that I would find it impossible to find without knowing God. In a sense, trying to find joy without finding God is like trying to find a nutritious meal in a candy shop.

So, are you saying that everyone who knows God has joy? Because I know plenty of so-called Christians who are so lacking in joy.. so miserable...

Let me say this. I have observed that it is (sadly) a rare thing to find a truly joyful human being. In my lifetime, I have met about a dozen or so. And it is even rarer to find a joyful woman. What I mean is that someone who consistently lives in a state of joy. And I'm not trying to be critical. I'm trying to be discerning about this. So rather than list "what you have to do" to "get it", I think I'd like to make some observations of the few people I do know who seem to have a degree of joy in their lives.

And I'll give you time to think about the people you know. Who has the joy of the Lord? What is it that makes them that way? And we'll discuss this a little more in the next post.

The secret of happiness..

2011-12-12T09:24:00.000-08:00

I have this very animated student who announced that, "I know what the secret of happiness is, but I'm not going to tell you because it's a secret.." while he was pacing up and down the room telling us stories.

I just laughed. I was so happy to have him so happy, that I did not even need to ask what he thought the secret was--as long as he's got it. Could you have it tomorrow also? And Mondays aren't often happy for people. So, what is happiness anyway?

And I know you've heard this: happiness is about happenings, and joy is.. something else.

Because our God is so unique and individual, there's got to be a specialized form of happiness and joy for each one of us, don't you think?

And for years, I would shun the idea of happy because it might interfere with "joy"--however elusive that may be. But the problem is that happiness can often lead to joy and joy to happiness. Joy and happiness can co-exist. But happiness and sadness can not. Sadness and joy can co-exist, and often do. In fact, the contrast of these two mingling is often what makes the joy during sadness so memorable.

So, let me further tangle up this ball. If joy is most apparent during sadness, is it least apparent during happiness? And all of this before I've even defined terms. And I'm only going to define happy in this post. Joy will have to be for a follow-on.

Happy is often thought of as---happenings. When things or circumstances happen in such a way that are favorable to me, then I am happy. As shallow as that may be, it is a real part of our existence. Let's face it. It's very difficult to constantly be living in a surreal world where all that there is is not what it should be so I need to constantly reach higher to have any sort of aesthetic experience. So, right now, today, let's just be shallow for a moment and think about: happy.

After all, it is Christmas. The spirit of Christmas is all that surrounds happy. For better or worse, it is supposed to be happy.

Now, am I going to say that "Christmas" is the secret of happiness? hA! of course not. But, it helps define our terms.

People we like-- with food we like--giving and getting gifts from people we like--in a home that is well pleasing to look at with decorations, warmth, love, festivities-- and if you are an adult--beverages that "make us" happy...

So, indulge me for a moment and think shallow thoughts. What makes you happy? (It's O.K. you won't explode or die from this experiment)

Try to get as simple as you can--not as elaborate as you can..

O.K. here's my list of happy and not necessarily in any great order of importance..

1) hot, black tea after dinner. Yes, this is one of life's greatest pleasures, thank you very much.

2) chocolate with peppermint. I like it when these two flavors are combined.

3) knitting with good quality yarn. Acrylic yarn is bad. I like an expensive wool or silky cotton.

4) colors on the tertiary color scheme, slightly dulled and subdued--specifically the dark greens and dark reds..

5) plaid: I love the red plaids, especially if they are combined with blacks and greens..

6) birch trees--specifically in the winter. I love that white contrast with black hardwoods. If it is fall, and there are leaves on the trees, that is lovely also.

7) a fresh walk outside: especially if it is sunny out. It doesn't matter if it is cold out, as long as it is sunny.

8) dancing lights on the ceiling-- when the sun shines in and you look up and the light is reflecting from something and it is dancing on the ceiling.

9) a tree tunnel: in the summer when all of the trees are full with leaves and their branches are curving in toward the (dirt) road, and you walk under it. It makes a happy, shaded tunnel.

10) the smell of lemon grass.. hmmmmmmmmm...

-----------------------------------------------------------------

I just listed 10 of life's simplest pleasures.

In order to have happiness, they have to be something you can share with others. So, I am sharing these happy ideas with you. I could have listed things like family and my house and all that, but what if you are reading this and that just makes you envious? and makes you think about what you (don't) have?

Instead, almost all of these things are things that even a person in a wheelchair or a hospital could enjoy. And most of you are not in a wheelchair. Some of you are getting around well this season, but some may be confined. If you are confined, have a plaid blanket with a cup of tea and a piece of chocolate peppermint. Look at pictures of birch trees in winter and watch the lights dance on the ceiling.

List some of your happy things in the comments!

Reason #483 why I don't like teen dating..

2011-12-08T15:13:00.001-08:00

Break-ups!

Enough said. Teen dating rarely results in marriage. There are a few good exceptions, but most teens are not ready for marriage. I can hardly think of any teenager that I know that is READY for marriage.

So, what if their parents are on-board? supportive ? Just because parents are delusional does not mean make it right.

Delusional? Don't you think that is a strong accusation? No. I .Don't. Teenagers are fully developed sexually. Are we expecting them to not be attracted to each other? Are we expecting that their sense of what is right is going to just "take over" in the heat of the moment? what? !

Oh, I know. Jesus is going to come down and do a miracle and stop these kids from having sex and curb their sexual cravings right in the nick of time? Fat chance.

More likely, the kids are going to be tempted to have "just as much fun as they can" without getting caught or going all the way for as long as they can. And then the guilt. The guilt! And there should be guilt.

And why is it that you (as parents) are encouraging this, again?

And then the inevitable happens--the breakup. If the kids are not ready emotionally for marriage, what makes you think they are ready for divorce?

Well? Isn't that what a breakup is? It's a HUGE emotional let down for everyone. It's a huge problem for everyone involved. If the couple was engaged in physical activities, the problem is compounded even more so. What do you do with all of these physical desires (that used to be asleep) and are now alive and craving? What do you do with the huge emotional void that is created when you realize your best friend (and maybe only friend if you have shut off all other friends) is gone?

I don't know. If you are a teen and you are going through this, I feel for you. I can hardly think of a worse thing other than losing a parent or something. If you are a parent, wake up!

Let your kids be kids! Encourage them to form good friendships! Love them so they don't need to go searching for emotional security! Can we try that, folks? When they are ready for marriage, then we'll talk.

A ray of sunlight

2011-11-29T18:30:00.001-08:00

Like the fierce gales of November, came the sudden and unexpected death of Curtis Lee Marnett.

Around a graveside gathering, the huddled family and friends gathered shoulder to shoulder with friends, family and strangers alike to keep the gusts at bay. The tent was no shelter for anyone. It stood as a reminder of a shelter, for all of its inhabitant were freezing cold.

The little ones were comforted by their older siblings and friends for the loss of their daddy. The older ones were comforted by holding the little ones and each other. Their mama, all in black, was glazed with grief and bewilderment.

The overcast day hung like a shroud as the rabbi sung his mournful song. Never once was Yeshua mentioned. The star of David adorned the plain pine box, and dirt from the holy land was respectfully placed atop the casket.

The father of the deceased had not only buried one but two sons in his lifetime. A sadness of unanswerable grief permeated that small plot of land.

I lifted my head to the dimmed clouds and asked Yeshua where he was. For I knew. I heard it with my own ears that this man, Curt, had received Jesus as his Messiah.

So, with respect for his father and his upbringing, his dear wife allowed the father of the deceased to have closure with his son in this traditional Jewish ceremony.

And then the unthinkable happened. I don't know if anyone else felt it. In the midst of this biting, cold freezing windy scene, I felt warmth. The sun had come out. I was feeling warmth across my back--through my jacket even.

It was just a gentle reminder, amidst this mournful scene, of what Curt did embrace. The tent was no shelter, and neither was the structure of his primary years. But they both served as a symbol of the true shelter.

And no one leaves this earth without someone feeling like things were undone in some way. Things were said or not said, done or not done, forgiven or not forgiven, but the truth remains the same. The entirety of a person's life does not consist of what happened in moments of frustration; it consists of what happened in moments of faith.

For those who are mourning his death, I pray that they will not focus on the cold, bitter anguish of the suddenness of his death, but of the ray of sunshine that is to come.

The Lord God is a Sun and a Shield. No good thing will he withhold from them who walk uprightly.
Ps. 84

What's important..

2011-11-29T05:19:00.001-08:00

Of course I can't tell YOU what's important for YOU. I can only tell you what's important for me.

And it is not, of course, articulating the what or the importance of it that is a struggle. For we are all inclined to say that our families are first. Right after Jesus, our husband and children are next. And our parents.

But it is the day-to-day of it all. WHAT really is first? What percentage of my life is going toward what really matters? I wish I could tell you that it is always ALL in balance.

That this handsome man is my one concern--right after Christ. That I never get sidetracked by stuff, activities, people, and nonsense..

Even so, despite the struggle to be to my family what it needs, constantly fighting with my flesh and being jostled about with every notion of nonsense, the LORD is Good.

Look at these guys! God doesn't make junk. He has picked up the slack where we have dropped the line. He is forming each one of these kiddos into a work of his own making. HE is awesome. We are just swinging along--watching him work.

Thank you for all of my blog friends who also know what's important and are struggling right along with me to keep it there. I know how you guys love your families also and are always encouraging others to do the same! At this time of thanksgiving, I am thankful for my family and my family-loving support network that I have amidst my blog and real life friends. May the Lord Jesus be your source of Joy and Strength this holiday season!

Left to Right (Joanna 17, Hudson 15, Daddy, Jamie, 19, Nathanael 14)
in front (Mommy and Emily, 6) Thanksgiving 2011

Thanksgiving for some of us..

2011-11-24T12:08:00.001-08:00

A tragic thing happened last night for one of my friends. Although I do not have all the details of it yet, I received a phone call informing me that one of my friend's husbands had died suddenly by way of a heart attack.

This was yesterday. The day before Thanksgiving was yesterday. Yesterday is the day my friend's husband died. My friend, Corrie has 10 children. She is about 45 years old, and she is a widow. She homeschooled her children, did 8 million loads of laundry, ironed her husband's shirts, and served three meals a day to her family for over 20 years.

Now what?

So, today when I was fumbling over my husband as he was helping me load the dishwasher, she was loading the dishwasher alone.

Today when I got the turkey in the oven in record time and my husband noticed and mentioned it, she probably isn't even cooking.

Today when I am celebrating the unique time of having our family together; they are experiencing separation in a way that they never have before.

My friend's move to the St. Louis area a few years ago has kept us from really keeping in contact with each other, but I feel her pain as if she were here.

May Jesus be their strength today.. and every day from this time forth.

Educational Insights from C.S. Lewis

2011-11-19T05:12:00.001-08:00

"Even in mathematics, whatever could be done by mere reasoning (as in simple geometry) I did with delight; but the moment calculation came in I was helpless. I grasped the principles but my answers were always wrong." Surprised by Joy, p. 76

"Walking and talking and talking are two very great pleasures , but it is a mistake to combine them. Our own noise blots out the sounds and silences of the outdoor world....."p. 79 ibid

" The only friend to walk with is one who so exactly shares your taste for each mood of the countryside that a glance, a halt, or at most a nudge, is enough to assure us that the pleasure is shared. The return from the walk, and the arrival of tea, should be exactly coincident, and not later than a quarter past four..." ibid

(Under the tutor, Kirk).. "For the first week or so, he gave me directions about my English reading, but when he discovered that, left to myself, I was not likely to waste my time, he gave me absolute freedom. Later in my career we branched out into German and Italian.." p. 80 ibid

(freetime) "Meanwhile on afternoons and Sundays, Surrey lay open to me. County Down in the holidays and Surrey in the term--it was an excellent contrast. Perhaps, since their beauties were such that even a fool could not force them into competition, this cured me once and for all of the pernicious tendency to compare and to prefer--an operation that does little good even when we are dealing with the works of art and endless harm when we are dealing with nature. Total surrender is the first step toward the fruition of either..Shut your mouth; open your eyes and ears. Take in what is there and give no thought to what might have been there or what is somewhere else. That can come later, if it must come at all..." p. 81 ibid
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I am not sure that these thoughts will be as special to anyone else other than me. I am really enjoying the writings of C.S. Lewis. thought-provoking!!

Do not turn right in front of this truck

2011-11-18T14:24:00.001-08:00

Ambiguity.

If I am reading it, and it does not make sense to me, is it my fault or the author's fault?

Communication has to be two ways, doesn't it?

So, I've never understood this sign that you see on the back of large trucks. It says this:

Do not turn right in front of this truck

And then I do what I always do, I try to figure out what that could possibly mean.

Option 1: If I am driving along and I happen to pass this truck and end up in front of it, then I am not to make any turns. I'm not sure why I can't make turns, but I just can't. The truck will explode if I turn to the right or the left while I am in front of THIS truck.

Option 2: If I am driving along and I happen to be in front of the truck, I should not make an immediate turn in front of the truck. Maybe I should get into the other lane and then turn? Or let a few cars get between me and the truck so I'm not "right in front"..??

Option 3: Or perhaps it's only the right turns that are prohibited. Left turns are O.K.

Option 4: I can turn right or left, front or back, as long as it has nothing to do with THIS truck. Which is generally the way I interpret this passage. I just stay away from trucks that have ambiguous signage on the back.

Option 5: Look at the sign that is next to the ambiguous message. The sign shows a car passing the truck and immediately cutting off the truck (which happens to be on the right). So, we are not supposed to pass trucks and then get in front of them? That would make it impossible to not turn right in front of them either?

So, you see my dilemma. And the OCD side of me CAN NOT be behind trucks that have cryptic messages on them. I never hit that equilibrium of knowing what to do or how to do it. So, in desperation, I pass the truck (on the left side) and immediately get in front of them. Suddenly, all is at peace with the world. I think if they had not had that ridiculous sign on the back, I would have never thought to pass them.

funniest comment from yesterday..

2011-11-17T05:02:00.001-08:00

So, I have this really fun job that I do. Teaching? no. pilates? no. (although those are fun jobs also..) This is my "professional organizing" job. It started as just wire management, but it has expanded to "moving prep". Now I love organizing wires, but moving prep is my favorite.

So, what is moving prep? So, picture this. There's this really BIG company with several departments that all occupy a huge building. Every so often, there are new bosses or management or whatever, and entire departments need to move. But lo and behold.. sometimes, the previous department or desk owner has left a bunch of stuff behind. So, the new people need to move in, but they can't because all of this junk is there.

Why did they leave all of this stuff behind? I'm not really sure. I think in big companies like this one, everyone is afraid to actually throw things away for fear that "someone might need it". Someone never comes along because that someone has tons of junk that they are bringing with them. So, there may be several years that go by and things just get shuffled around.

So, that's when I come in. And I am not sure that all of my decisions are stellar, but so far, my boss hasn't complained. If it looks important, I send it ahead to the person who left it behind. If it can be used by employees in the company, I donate it back to them in a central supply area. Then the other items are: donated, recycled or trashed, depending on their usefulness.

So, as you can imagine, there's a lot of stuff that hits the recycling bins. So, yesterday, I'm hauling huge amounts of paper into the recycling bins. And everything I do is with great speed and gusto. I even work up a sweat doing this job (I love it!)--I count it as a workout. Anyway, so this random guy walks by and sees this blitzing overly-enthusiastic mama getting rid of huge amounts of paper and casually says,

"So, it's that time of the month, eh?"

Yeah. Except I'm so lucky. I have learned to be efficient even when its not that time of the month.

And I laughed so hard. We have all of these geeky, introverted left-brained guys walking around and they can not imagine anyone loving this kind of work, except under some sort of hormonal compulsion.

Are you kidding????? This is therapy, dude. I love getting rid of things. It's therapeutic. Calming. cathartic. aaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhh...... and they pay me! seriously! So, what's not to love?

Sentimental and I'm not going to apologize for it..

2011-11-15T13:19:00.001-08:00

Typically, I DO NOT consider myself an overly sentimental person, but on this ONE issue, I am unglued. I've lost all mooring and am floating in a wasteland of soft pink sugar and gooey sentiment.

I have to save these things. And I am having this apocalyptic battle over the practical and sentimental side of my brain over what??

And all of the homeschool mommies said: educational supplies!!! Wrapped up in the flashcards, the cuisenaire rods, the wrap-ups, the legos, the stringing beads and the build-a-bear are years of my life!!

And I can not bear the drama any longer. If I love those things THAT much, then I probably should hold on to them. And if this pink sugar sentimentality finds someone else to light upon, I will free myself of the excess baggage. Until then, I am done fighting it.

And all of you regular readers are sitting there with your mouths agape, wondering who on earth has heisted this blog and is posing as the organizing mommy. Seriously. This is as much akin to a midlife crisis as I hope to ever see.

So, I am going to do the unthinkable: I am going to SAVE things that have no foreseeable use in the future for the pure sentimentality of it.

EXHALE.

Well, I feel better now. How about you? What do you mean? You fainted?!! GeT Up already. I still plan to get rid of a pile of other things, so it is not like my entire house will be a warehouse of Timberdoodle relics. Just the bottom half. O.K. half of the bottom half. But still....

Some people collect antiques.. .. some like fancy dishes. I love phonic games and little blocks and counting fishes..

We all have our weaknesses, and I have found mine. They'll be plenty of things for little people to do when they visit me, I guess..

Buttery Corn bread and other luxuries..

2011-11-13T20:43:00.001-08:00

I am going to tell you that I haven't been as domestic as in the past; nevertheless, I still have a little bit of June Cleaver in me. And here's the proof.

Buttery Corn bread buttery buttery buttery.... corn corn corn bread...

What could be wrong with that? Unfortunately, I have no claim on this recipe. It is a download on Allrecipes. And it was just yummy with the chili/ goulash? that I put together this weekend.

We had the best little family over with six kidlets. It's amazing when these cute little families come that all of our kids look like giants to them. Nevertheless, they chase our kids around even though our Nephilim are twice their size.

Big Hud will grab one of them and carry them around until another attacks him. Of course, Joanna could not resist doing a photo shoot of them. I'm dying to get a photo up, but my photo snob won't let me see let alone post "raw" photos... egad! So, we'll all have to wait on that.

In the meantime, you'll have to just imagine these darling little girls (and one boy) stuffing their cheeks with yummy corn bread.. Happy little eaters--that is a luxury for the hospitality mama.

Pink sky

2011-11-11T04:39:00.001-08:00

This morning I have the delightful view of pinkish-indigo sky. The trees are almost completely bare, as they form a delightful skeleton against the glorious backdrop. The evergreens are almost a blueish hue, and plowed fields are finding an amber horizon line.

Quiet. serene. comforting. An occasional snow flake falls.

Yesterday a friend was telling me about her comforting morning routine. She told me that she loves routine, and it gives her a sense of peace and comfort. It helps her get settled for her day.

Even though I do something different everyday during the work hours, I do enjoy this morning time of sitting here with my coffee, my Bible, my notebook, and sometimes (if I have time) the computer while looking out the window and enjoying whatever is going on outside.

I want to get to the point where I have some emotional peace with God about all that is going on or all that went on yesterday. I don't want to carry yesterday's burdens with me into today. Each day has enough trials of its own. It's not that I refuse to acknowledge unfinished business; it's that I have purposefully handing over the emotional baggage that each item carries. There's only so much that one person can do in this life. When I have done what I can do, then I need to give it to God.

That generally determines a good day from a bad day in my life. Can I lay it down??? even though I feel so (awful, upset, angry, guilty, burdened)?? Can I find a new strength to move forward? This isn't easy--and I'm the one who is given to wallowing in my guilt and blaming myself for all that is going on in the world... (as if I have that much power?)

But pink skies are here.. again. And so is our burden-carrier. Let's enjoy this routine.

Monday morning talk time

2011-11-09T05:09:00.000-08:00

I am more of a therapist than an English teacher on Mondays. When I get to school on Monday mornings, I need to get on the planet with the kids that I am going to be teaching. My planet and their planet is so many worlds apart that I need to mesh these two worlds a little.

So Monday morning rolls around, and the kids drag themselves and their backpacks into my English classroom. I am dragging a little also, but at least I've had the teacher's meeting AND coffee to get me going a little.

So, we start with prayer. I pray for them. I pray for each student, by name. It isn't hard because there are only five of them, but still.. it makes them feel special.

And then we start "talk time". Talk time is just when each one of the kids has a chance to talk and tell the rest of us what they did this weekend or what is going on in their lives or anything significant to them. In reality, the other students aren't supposed to interrupt or criticize, but we're still working on that..

I will admit that the first couple of weeks of "talk time", it was slow going. Nobody wanted to talk, and I was met with statements like, "What do you care?!" and "that's none of your business".. ugh. Slow starting!

But now.. they are all tripping over themselves to go first. They tell their stories with great excitement and animation. Some get up and walk the room and do wild gestures while they are describing the epic events of the weekend. And I laugh with them. Or look sad when they describe something sad.

And I just smile the way a mother hen smiles at her chicks when they are finally starting to jump around in the nest. Progress toward emotional wholeness for some who are troubled.. confused..indifferent-- you know-- all the things kids struggle with.

And when Tuesday rolls around, we actually "do school" with a surprising amount of clarity and focus. Yes, I am talking about junior high. Clarity and focus and junior high do not normally fit into the same sentence.

And I love those kids. The Lord gave me five children of my own--whom I love dearly--nothing could take the place of them. But the Lord has given me nine little kidlets to love on for this year. (5 jr. high and 4 highschool) The Lord is good, isn't he?

And then my wings need help too!

2011-11-08T05:12:00.000-08:00

No one ministers to others without eventually getting ministered to! Yes, even those of us who are die-hards, are in regular need of wing maintenance. But how does this happen? I wish I could say that I am so teachable that God just whispers a breath to me and I instantly obey..

But more frequently, the Lord has other ways of dealing with me...

Like the realization that I have some form of envy or greed or desire that is going unmet. And the only reason it is going unmet is just that--it is a form of greed, envy or desire (lust?)..

God doesn't want us to have those sorts of needs met because they just add to themselves more of the same. Greed gives birth to more greed. Envy just makes me hate others.. Ungodly desires just seem to find more ungodly desires.. But it is this strange longing for something that is absolutely forbidden that wakes me up to the unhappiness of it all. Take it to its final conclusion--more and more unhappiness.

More and more of that sort of thing is just the opposite of joy.

Joy is a calm realization (however briefly) that all that we need and want is all that we have. Joy is the absence of these longings that are ungodly and an appreciation for all that is readily available in Christ.

And God uses various methods to alert me to the ever-widening gap between where I am now and where I could be. He uses the Word of God--just in my private readings. He uses the preaching/ teaching of the Word. He uses the example of others who living victoriously. He uses the testimony of the persecuted church. And he uses nature--in all of its beauty and perfection.

May you find some form of true joy today!

freeing the wings..

2011-11-03T06:08:00.000-07:00

Last night our home was filled with young people, music and food until past midnight. We affectionately gave this time after prayer meeting the title of "the midnight meal"since it will often go until midnight.

Among our guests, we had a few people join us for the first time. One of our newbies was Gary S. who works with ministries to bridge them together. Tonight we were talking about the YMCA and reaching it for Christ. The Rockford YMCA allows anyone to come in its doors. It really is a good representation of the community of Rockford. People of all ages, races, economic levels find a home of sorts at the YMCA.

For those of us who know Christ, we are enjoying the Y returning to its roots--a distinctly Christian emphasis. But we're doing it differently now. When the Y was first started, it was a place for Christian men to go and escape the temptations of the world. At a time when there was not a recognized need of what to do with the young people who had left their homes in the country to work in the city, the Y offered a haven of fellowship and protection for these young men.

Today, the Y serves the community--not just Christian men. Even though our Y has gone through significant changes in the past few months, we are hopeful that these are good changes. We are hopeful that young people will find their way back to the Y and into a Bible study. And the churches that are involved will be able to make disciples from those who want to know Christ.

So, with all of this going on, I got to thinking--what is discipleship anyway?

When we take people into our home, feed them a meal, talk to them, and listen to their needs, what are we doing? When we invest in young people in the Y or at Regents or wherever we are--why and what are we doing anyway???

And God gave me this cool thought.

I imagined each person who knows the Lord Jesus as their Lord and Savior (i.e. born again, Christian, a new creation in Christ..) as coming forth from the womb with a set of wings.

The problem is that their wings are firmly attached to their backbone and they new creation really doesn't even know they are there--much less how to use them.

For those of us who disciple others, we place our hand on the shoulder of these creatures and let them know that if they just move a little here and there, they will realize they have a set of wings.

The wings are weak still, and the new creature finds it much easier to walk and strut the wings than to fly with them.

So, the process of discipleship involves freeing the wings.. building up the muscles on the wings.. and teaching them to fly. Once the creature is flying, it's just a little tweak here and there--getting them to use the map and following the course that God has laid out for them.

I have realized that my ministry is providing the flying creatures a nesting spot and providing wing maintenance. I love having my home full of flying creatures. Sometimes I just sit on the sidelines and watch them buzz around together.

And I think this: I have no greater joy than to see my children walking in truth...

overwhelmed yourself lately?

2011-10-27T08:07:00.000-07:00

Early Tuesday morning, I realized that an award winning Christian author, Bryan Davis was going to be the guest speaker at Hallstrom and teach a class at 1:00. I started thinking rabout how I could get my kids from the Christian school (Regents) over to Hallstrom to hear the author. (Regents is the school where Emily attends and I teach English, and Hallstrom is where Joanna, Hudson and Nathanael attend all day) So, even though I am involved with both, I have never attempted to combine both venues into one activity. Today was going to be the day I attempted the merger.

You see, I only teach my classes at Regents in the mornings, and these students have Bible and other classes in the afternoon. So, with a lot of begging and convincing of various people, I had six students packed in my minivan at 12:30 p.m., heading toward Temple Baptist to hear a real author speak about his books.

I have one student who really wants to be an author some day, and I have others who just need something (anything!!) to inspire them towards greatness.

Before we left, I told them there would be no: burping, farting, coughing, sneezing, throwing up, or other bodily functions allowed in my car. Mrs. Webber does not like the smell or sight of bodily functions.

I forgot to mention that I really didn't like conversation about them either.

Even though this is one child is in the 7th grade, he seemed to think he could garner some attention by telling me that, "his wee wee had to go"--to which I promptly drove through a red light in response to this.

When he started going into details about which number he had to go and such, I played Mr. Frederickson from the movie UP.

"La la la la la.. this is no concern of mine!!" I just wished I could have turned off my hearing aid.
Bummer. Just when you think that good health is a blessing, all of a sudden, you wished you had a hearing aid.

So, we piled into the church, secured name tags, took care of the wee-wee needs and heard the speaker.

It was awesome. Bryan Davis is a godly man who trusts God for everything. If I do not get a chance to write a separate post on his books, just know this. He is a homeschooling dad who gave up his career to pursue book writing and is living by faith. We ended up buying a set of his books, and many of my students have already started reading them! yeah!!! The books are along the lines of C.S. Lewis--Christian-inspired fantasy. It's what kids love to read, and I believe God will use these books to help shape their character in Christian living.

So, during the talk, Mr. Davis mentioned a Christian writer's conference that sounded very interesting. He is one of the speakers who teaches a 12 hour session. And then my wheels started turning.

Wouldn't it be awesome to go to this conference? And I could bring my students? etc. etc.

So, I was mulling this idea around in my head on the way home. So while I was contemplating this grand plan, I spontaneously pulled into McDonalds to get the kids a treat. So, while they were enjoying their treats, I had this thought.

This isn't so bad. I could drive these kids to Florida.. how hard could that be?..

And then the burping started. Have I mentioned that Mrs. Webber does not like bodily functions and their associated resounding sounds??? yeah.. I think I did.

And then I had this thought.

We should just fly to Florida. Flying goes much faster.

And the volume in the car increased. There wasn't so much burping as there was about six conversations going on at once. Granted. I only brought six kids, but still..

And then I had another thought.

Actually, we will fly, but I'll take a different flight. a different airline, perhaps? just incase something happens and I accidentally end up on the same flight.. Yeah, that's what I'll do.

Oh, and I forgot to mention that one of my goals was to get the kids back for gym class after the session. I couldn't find my cell phone to tell the gym teacher we were running late...

So, here we walk into the school--20 minutes late and everyone carrying a McDonald's wrapper and there's my principal and the gym teacher tapping her foot. And for some reason, the sophisticated science teacher was there also, shaking her head at me too.

Not only were we late, but we missed gym AND ate McDonalds.

So, the next few minutes were spent profusely apologizing to the gym teacher, my principal and everyone else who would receive an apology. The next day, even, I was still feeling guilty and (in a moment of weakness) asked my principal if I had officially overwhelmed him yet.

And he wisely responded,

"No, but have you overwhelmed yourself yet?"

Wow. That's it. I do not slow down until I have officially overwhelmed myself. I went home thinking very high brow thoughts of the profundity of that statement. And quite honestly, I'm still pondering it.

Actually, I overwhelm myself on MOST days, but the problem is this: I recover too quickly from it. And then, after a good night's rest, a cup of coffee, some time with the Lord and a house blitz, I go right back to being insane again.

And then I only remember how FUN it was. I just giggle when I think about my little students who need so much love and care getting excited about reading....

I think about Mr. wee-wee writing a fabulous "free write" about the experience and really wanting to read and finish a book that I bought from the author.

I think about the young man who really wants to be an author having the happiest time and so giddy on the way home that he was telling us crazy stories about the biscuits at the Red Lobster were so good that "they taste like Jesus"...

And then the next day, the principal came in my classroom the next day and talked with the kids about reading and relating the parables to the type of literature they were learning about...

And then I think

yeah... I've overwhelmed myself.. but as soon as I recover, I'm going to jump right in there and overwhelm myself.. again.

Plaid fabric corsages

2011-10-22T20:17:00.000-07:00

This was a very fun and easy craft that was inspired by the most recent Land's End catalog. They call it a "tartan flower pin" and it goes for $19.50. Check out the link if you think I'm kidding.

The styles they were showing with the pins were very cute also. If you want to see cute examples of how to wear the pins, check out the catalog labeled: Read any Good looks lately? Darling styles. Cute, classy, conservative--chic.

So, not to be outdone by the Land's End catalog, last Sunday my friend, Shannen and I indulged in a little craft making adventure.

The procedure is simple. Take some of that plaid wool that you have laying around. What?? Your tartans are not stocked to the brim?? It must have been a bad garage sale year for you, eh? In the fall, I seem to live to sew with tartans. Borderline obsession--but then again--everything in my life is..

So you need to cut four concentric circles, each one slightly smaller than the first. With these, you make petal shapes around the exterior, preferably with pinking shears. Sew through all the layers with a hand sewn gathering stitch. This will make them puff up more and add just enough volume. Optional: secure with a button in the center if desired. Fray the edges if desired. Complete the pin by securing a safety pin to the back.

Notice the look--no excessive jewelry for this. Green plaid skirt/ simple white button-down. The catalog shows a long, belted cardigan also.

I couldn't resist not throwing together a hat and scarf--just for kicks. The little tartan flower attached to the side of the hat for this one. The scarf was a black sweater (merino/ mohair mix) from my summer finds. Basically, to make a ridgy-looking scarf, start with a large circle of fabric and cut a strip 4" wide, forming a continuous loop until you get the center of the circle. You'll end up with one long fabric strip with all of the bias edges wobbly.

Thanks to my darling daughter, Joanna who not only took but edited these photos. She's been doing more senior portraits on her blog. I love the classy and sophisticated look of Natalie.

She just took her ACT today. Is it a sin to pray that she gets a 30??? Just sayin' Whatever she gets, we'll be thankful and happy for her.

Equilibrium

2011-10-21T07:30:00.000-07:00

So, it's almost the end of October, and I think we have finally hit a "routine" for this semester. I can celebrate at least ONE week where I didn't add or subtract any major activities, friends, or home improvements.

How about you? Have you hit that balance yet? I am realizing that there is this inborn guilt (in women, at least) about having a life that is NOT completely overwhelming. And when we have a "light schedule" by design, we feel a womanly guilt. And this constant, nagging feeling of: "is this O.K.??" and somehow needing to prove to yourself and others that it is O.K. to not feel overbooked every second of the day.

O.K. realistically, not ALL women struggle with this--just my readers and I: type A, overachieving, mommy-a-holic hospitality queens.

The mommies who have their homeschooled kids in drama, Model UN, music, robotics, gavel clubs, church-youth activities, scholarship competitions, ACT studying, photography adventures, volunteer work, and a full load of classes...

The mommies who have to make lunches for the little ones and find gym shoes and piano books..

The mommies who think they need to "set an example" for our daughters by taking care of their bodies and working out and teaching others to do the same..

The mommies who think they need to teach classes at both schools their kids attend, just to keep up with their lives and stay in the loop.. and even use that dusty teaching certificate once in a while..??

And let's not forget a "part time" job of professional organizing at your husband's work place.. just to "help out" and make some money.

In spite of all of this--GOD is good!!! and I am NOT overwhelmed. Here are some things that are saving my fanny during this busy season of life.

1) Time with the Lord and in his Word. I may only get 15 minutes, but I try to find a piece of Scripture to meditate on and worship the Lord--in the morning before life gets too crazy.

2) Enough sleep. I go to bed early, if possible (except on Wednesdays) and I take big naps, as needed.

3) Nutrition. I can not emphasize how important this is--especially in the morning. I eat "real food" in the morning--not fluffy carbs and junk.

4)Pilates. My exercise routine with pilates keeps me pain free and feeling good. Even though I'm kind of chunky, I feel happy and confident in my skin. I have a cute little "mommy tummy" that may never go away but I'm happy with my body, and that's a happy thing.

5) My husband. I should have listed this earlier. He is awesome and meets my needs, whatever they happen to be at the moment. He leads me spiritually and takes care of me. Yes, I try to take care of him too, but I think I have the good end of the deal.

6) Saying no. I not only say "no", but I usually say it with gusto. "You've GOT to be KIDDING! You want me to do WHAT???" And if it is something that I think I could possibly do, I tell them that I need to talk to my husband first. We discuss it. And then I usually end up doing it. But I say NO a lot just because it is nice to be in control. And then I think about it and say YES later. Sounds crazy, but it works for me.

7) MY kids. My kids help out a lot. You know the expression: "Many hands make light work"? Well, that is only true if the hands are BIG and TRAINED. Thankfully, we're at the stage of life of big and trained hands helping out. We always let them pursue their own interests, but they have to be helpful workers in the home also.

8)Routine. I don't do everything everyday. Some days I do "nothing" outside of the home. I even cancel things until I can come up with a stay-at-home day for myself. Trust me, there's plenty to do around here. But I enjoy it because I know that I'm not going to have to stop in the middle of it and go do something. You should try it. It's a good thing.

So, that's what I've been up to lately. Today is just one of those golden stay at home days. I have some laundry to do. I might indulge in some knitting. I have a pilates client coming to the house for a little workout. I may take a nap later. So, I'm going to go and put down the hedgehog hair and get ready!

Love this time of year..

2011-10-07T10:57:00.000-07:00

So fall is here, and the hedgehog turned her head into a dip-cone, chocolate flavored.

So I put away the summer duds and the blonde hair. My actual goal was to get this back to my "regular" color. And back to fall clothes!

We are having a beautiful, balmy indian summer day. I have a big pot roast in the crock pot. I may even trot out to the garden to see if the brussel sprouts are ready.

Let me think poetically for a moment----eggplant-colored leaves, raspberry mums, sun-kissed tomatoes, verdant chives, cumin-colored flowers...hhhhhmmmmmmmm gives me an idea..

Why don't I just go through my photos and find things we've done in past years for a little inspiration? Although, I will say this--the weather itself is an inspiration for me!

Remember these pumpkin crafts? I don't even remember what year I made these, but they are so fun!

And let's not forget the rug hooking adventure? or fall scarf ??

Why not make (yet another) tote with fall-inspired fabrics??? or a new messenger bag?

And there's nothing that says fall like some hearty soup..

Real pumpkins are very special also..

Especially if you cook them down in order to make pumpkin butter..

Or you can just let them crowd up the doorway after you've picked them from the garden like we did this one year.

Need more ideas? The fabric stores are calling our names, ladies.

Or what about some nice fall photos?

Dress up a kid or two and plunk them in a fall scene..

Oh, she was such a button then! (Emily at age 3)

And last but not least, we NEED pumpkin donuts!

Yes, heaven will be like this day.
Enjoy your fall!

A guy from the 1940's

2011-10-01T22:41:00.000-07:00

On Friday, Will and the kids showed up at my new school, Regents, to do a demonstration of the Gavel Club--a public speaking club for young people. When everyone got there, I introduced them all, but I never included the fact that these new people were my husband and kids.

So, when I got a chance to talk to my students again, I asked them, "Did you figure it out that Mr. Webber is my husband? And that the other kids are my kids?"

"At first, we thought he was the guy from Pierson's plumbing. He looks just like that guy.." one of the students said.

"And then I thought.. Wow... He looks like a guy from the 1940's... I know I've seen him in a movie or something.."

"And then I figured out that he's not the plumbing guy, but he really is a guy from the 1940's.."

"And Hudson.. Now he looks EXACTLY like a guy from the Harry Potter movie.. for real.."

So, my students and my family met for the first time. My own kids just giggled at whatever the students said. The students were lively and talkative, and they seemed to enjoy the meeting. I made a big batch of food for the kids, and we all sat down "family style" and ate dinner together after the meeting. The students were genuinely appreciative and thankful for the meeting and the food.

And I got to thinking. This school is a mission field. A lot of the kids come from broken homes. Many of them were raised by the television and video games. Their way of fitting us into their world is by assigning us a television show. I think we qualify for this one.

A midwest family set in the 1950's, with a strong father figure at the helm--yes, that would depict us. And I find it humorous that one of our kids asked for drum set a few weeks ago, to which I said, "no".

Remember how everyone thought Hudson looked like Edmund from Narnia? And now he is a guy from Harry Potter? (I have never seen the Harry Potter movies, so I have no idea..)

Fame. I'm telling you. It's going to be hard to avoid with celebrities like this in my family.

No one EVER comes up to me and says, "Hey.. you look like.." probably because why would they want to say it? "You look like a hedgehog with your hair like that.. "

And then again, most people don't say much because they can't get a word in.

Except for this: "you are overwhelming" said to me TWICE on separate occasions on the same day. Not fair.

ugh.

I think I'm going to carry a business card that says, "call at your own risk" and "I am found to be overwhelming by 85% of the population. The other 15% I am still waiting to meet".

We all have our issues, eh?

For now, I am thankful for that guy from the 1940's. By the grace of God and by hiding in his office studying Hebrew a lot of the time, he manages to dwell peacefully with the hedgehog, with little to no difficulty. God is good.

Sheltered

2011-09-30T09:56:00.000-07:00

You know how I hardly ever have any high brow thoughts anymore? It takes a high-brow blogger like Mrs. P of Titus 2 to inspire me to think about stuff. She's good for me like that. So, the question she is pondering on her blog has to do with sheltering our children. Do we shelter? and from what? and to what degree? and is it overall beneficial? (or something along those lines) Various people are chiming in.

It reminded me of a conversation that my oldest son had with us, right before he left for college.

"WHY did you shelter me? Sheltering is bad." (or something like this)

Will and I just looked at him with one eyebrow raised. It was never our goal to shelter our children. If we had written down one of those grandiose mission statements for our family, there would not have been a sheltering column.

No. Sheltering was never on the radar. So, were we loosey goosey about parenting, then? No, not at all.

As written in such a way that I am speaking to my own children..

But it went something like this. We wanted to provide you with an excellent education. Homeschooling was a part of achieving this goal. The fact that I could not drum up a bunch of rowdy infidel type of children to join us in our homeschool is secondary. It certainly made my life easier trying to teach you because I didn't have to compete with the system of rowdy infidels. Therefore, by default, you were sheltered from them.

Here's another goal. We wanted you to have useful, productive lives that are the byproduct of hard work. Is it possible that a hardworking, productive family has little to no television in their lives? A constant viewing of useless things is not helping us achieve our goals for you. Therefore, by default, you were sheltered from media nonsense.

Health nutrition and active lifestyles are also part of our goals for you. People are happy when they are healthy. Healthy involves intentional eating. It means I force you to play outside (even now) and drag your butts off the couch to enjoy the good old fashioned fresh air. Can I help that I've sheltered you from being overweight, unhealthy and sedentary? Can I help it that everyone says our children are the "picture of health"?? whatever that means. I means I'm the food nazi and no one (including daddy) can just eat whatever he wants. It means a lot of our income goes on food. And that is on purpose.

Excellence in academics and goal achieving. Yes, I have "forced" you to be in things that you would rather not do-- public speaking clubs, strings instruments, drama, and anything else that you didn't like but we made you do-- is all about sheltering you from a useless, aimless life. I know too many adults who still haven't figured out what they want to do when they "grow up". In our family, you set goals and you achieve them. end of discussion. It won't seem unusual for you to be doing that when you are adults because you've been doing it all of your life.

About God. You had no choice except to born into this family. In our family, we love Jesus. Because we love the Lord Jesus, you have been (by default) sheltered from a variety of things. (notice that I didn't say we are Christians. I said we love Jesus. There is a difference. They were called Christians because of their love. There are plenty of people who say they are Christians. What their lives have to do with Christ, I do not know)

So here are a few things you were sheltered from (by default, because we love Jesus and are trying to live for him and obey his Word)...

a. A broken home: It should be the norm not the exception that people who love Jesus choose to stay happily married. Thankfully, both mom and dad love the Lord Jesus and by his grace are still happily married.

b. a home with fighting and shouting: We are not perfect, as you know. But we are trying to love the Lord Jesus so much that he helps us manage our disagreements.

c. a home of substance abuse: people who carry the burdens of this life are very prone to alcohol and drug abuses. I think it would be impossible without Christ, so no wonder people have addictions. In Christ, even the things that are hard to do are possible--like managing problems without addictive substances.

d. a home without love: Even people who claim to love Jesus often have a coldness in their hearts toward each other. You know we are not perfect and sin often, but we have love here. Maybe you've never thought about it. Something tells me that when you go into someone's home who is without love, you'll recognize the difference.

And I'd like to think that God "shelters" me in the same way. He often doesn't come right out and let me see all that he's protected me from. Through his gentle leading, he is providing a path of blessing AND protection. What a good God he is!!

Organized? Whaaaaaaaaa?

2011-09-25T20:19:00.000-07:00

Why is the title "Organized" even in my blog header? I am the biggest hypocrite that ever walked the earth if I think I can give anyone organizing advice at this stage of my life. I've even contemplated changing the entire header to something sublime like "The Hedgehog speaks" or even more eloquent, "the disorganized hedgehog speaks.."

I have friends who have probably read my blog, followed my advice and are currently threatening to clean up my house.. that's how bad it is around here. And I'm half ready to let them do it, but now I'm on the other side of the coin saying, "but do I think I'll need THAT some day??"

Yes. Yes, I am REaLLY saying that. Give me a hole to crawl into already.

Transition. I'm holding on to a previous stage of my life (emotionally) and finding it hard to move on, so what do I do? I hold on to the stuff that represents the time that I can't quite let go of yet. In the meantime, everyone else is happily moving on.

Do I have to move on? really? No. I could just sit in a cluttery disorganized house for the rest of my life, relishing the good 'ole days, whatever that is-whenever that was--and be so confused in my own clutter that I can't even find my car keys. Sounds palatable, doesn't it? yeah. but no.

So, what is the worst case scenario?

Let's see.. the worst case scenario is something like this. I get rid of something that I actually AM going to need and have to buy it again. And the real question is this: did I miss the will of God by getting rid of it? Is he going to provide the money to buy something that I should have not gotten rid of, but did, and now I don't have it?

And the answer is this: yes, he is a good provider. We have the freedom in Christ to get rid of things, even if we can in our remotest subcranial reasoning can fathom a potential situation that may include that item again. If in our reasonable thinking, nothing in the foreseeable future is going to require that item, I think, we can, in all good conscience, dispose of it.

But what if I am too emotionally attached to the cuisenaire rods? (the ones that I envisioned my kids learning math on and loving every minute it, but in reality, they only used them as toys and learned math with actual numbers...???)

So, for the things I am just too emotional to part with (at the moment), I need an emotional resting place for these things to simmer for a while. When I realize that I value the clean space more than the clutter, I will joyfully get rid of the items--regardless of how many memories are attached to them.

This is why everybody needs to do a bi-annual overhaul--even disorganized hedgehogs. There's something special about getting life organized.

I don't write because I am already organized (especially not these days). No, I write because I am an A.D.H.D. Hedgehog who happens to "spin it" in a different light than the others. And when I get to heaven, this all will be so clear and I'll have a blog about organizing, but it will be purely for fun because everybody will already be organized.

How to flirt for the socially inept

2011-09-23T07:14:00.000-07:00

You all know that I work with teenagers and young people, so this should be no surprise to anyone that I am expert "flirt watcher" and have the pulse on all of my kids, as well as all of yours. We tend to call it "mom-coptering", and it is serious business.

Now, let's just get one thing straight. Flirting is not just for the extroverts. There are plenty of socially introverted people who make pretty good flirters. But it takes on a new form.

And I am going to be "such a mom" and expose the world to a real life situation.

"Did you notice how close this girl was sitting to you in class?" (me-- to one of my kids)

"Yes, I knew you would figure that out that she liked me.."

"So, it's true?? She likes you? How do you know?" (me-heartrate pulsing, hot flash starting)

"Last week. She just kept looking at me from across the room.. for the whole hour"

"So, do YOU like HER? " (having a complete mother meltdown..)

"No. But I knew that you would notice that she likes me.."

"Just because she is flirting?" (hoping that my son has his head on his shoulders..)

"Is THAT really flirting? Looking at someone and sitting next to them? "

"Yes, for people without social skills, THAT is flirting"

"Mom, I think you should write a book: Flirting for the socially inept"...

So, yes, I am writing about how to flirt for the socially inept. If you have no words to say, you can always stare a guy down, sit by him, sit close to him while you are sitting next to him, hope that somehow your "accidental" gestures will cross with his enough to touch him and Voila! a relationship has blossomed!

Here are some other things that don't involve social skills: texting, facebook comments, and generally stalking them either by following them around or just hanging out where they are hanging out. You can try dressing immodestly or showing a little cleavage. It all helps. In fact, you don't even need to be a Christian to get a young Christian man distracted.

See? No wonder parents of teenagers go grey, take blood pressure meds, have midlife meltdowns, and need to go on cruises once in a while. Aaaaaaaaaarrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrgggggggghhhhhhhhh.....

Boys, if SHE is hitting on YOU, think twice. What does this say about HER character?

The senior takes senior pics..

2011-09-19T19:18:00.000-07:00

Our senior in high school is officially the "photographer of choice" for her friends' senior portraits. I have to admit the price is right.. and the quality is awesome. She is just beginning a journey of photographic studies which began by studying free tips from the experts in internet articles. Then it blossomed into her purchasing her first SLR Canon Ti Rebel. Before you know it, she was heading to Portland, OR for the Institute in Photographic Studies, Prizewinning Photography 1 and 2. And our next adventure is applying to the Institute of Art in Schaumburg, IL for digital photography. The Art Institute offers a four year degree in three years. She has sent in her application, and we are eagerly waiting for her acceptance, Lord willing.

This is Joanna's friend, Casey. To see the rest of them, go over to Jo-with-it's portfolio to see Casey's pics! They turned out great!

celebrating every new thing..

2011-09-17T05:10:00.000-07:00

So, my six year old Emily was on the phone with her grandma..

"Grandma, you know what I like?"

"What is that, Emily?"

"lowercase g's! Don't you just love lowercase g's, grandma? I mean.. they are so cool. They have this circle and the little tail that comes down below the line.."

"Yes, Emily. I have always loved lowercase g's. Are you studying them right now?"

"No. I was just thinking about them.."
----------------------------------------------

And all the verbal-linguistics just giggled with glee, didn't you? Yes, I do believe we have a linguist on our hands.

I have this sort of weird dejavu happening right now.

When Jamie was a little tyke, he was just sitting in the hammock at our home in Panama. And he said,
"You know, I was just thinking. Five and five together makes ten."

"That's right, Jamie. How did you figure that out?"

"I was just sitting here thinking about it, and I figured it out.."

And a mere 16 years later, he is studying math and science in college.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

I wish I had specific learning awakening moments for each one of my children, but I don't. I can say this though. The bud shows itself long before the bloom appears. And each bloom is different and beautiful. This year, the bud is really starting to take form in our Emily. I have never seen anyone quite so eager for learning. And.. I am so pleased with her new school and teacher that I am bursting at the seams with excitement.

Not every child or every season is the same in this life. But I am so thankful for the Lord's provision for right now. She does a full day of learning, and she still has plenty of energy for "homework" with mommy and daddy when she gets home. At her insistence, she reads out loud to us and writes on the board from the moment she gets home from school until it is time to go to bed. (And that is after a full school day!) So, we still trying to catch our breath here, but my mother tells me crazy stories about myself when I was that age.

Apparently, I had this great big chalkboard and played "teacher" and "school" all the time when I was home from school. I ran around the house, pushing a shopping cart, wearing every hat I owned on my head at the same time and would frequently be awake to watch Johnny Carson at night with my Dad and grandma. I called myself "Theresa Jane" and gave pretend names to everyone in my "school".

Life goes full circle, you know. And now that I am middled aged.. now you give me my clone, eh Lord? I raised four "little Willys" and now I get the first "little me".. No wonder I'm on the phone with my mother every day! !!!!!

Funniest thing said to me this week..

2011-09-15T18:07:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was having a full-scale meltdown. And if I can be brutally blunt, I'm not one of those people who thinks she needs to hide in a corner somewhere in order to have a meltdown. Wherever I happen to be at the moment, wherever it hits, that seems to be a good enough place for me.
Someone told me that her father said that you should not show your emotions in public and always be strong. "I guess I missed that lecture" I told my friend. Like who cares? And my friends are used to me.

When I finally get two minutes to sit and think (generally at prayer meeting) seems like a perfectly good time to have the meltdown. And no one died. No one hates me. I had a disappointment that derailed my emotions. Actually, it felt good to cry, you know?

All of my other emotional friends decided to have their meltdown with me. But we were bonding in our misery, and that felt good. It was one of those sacred moments where you could almost feel the invisible estrogen circle forming. The men were on the other side of the room, doing what they do best-- looking and feeling helpless. But they're cute that way, so we'll keep 'em.

So, we had our big hugs and composed ourselves enough to start the next meeting. Soon enough, the midnight meal activities are ensuing and there are kids and food everywhere. Back to chaos and fun. So, one of the mothers of the teenagers was there (but who didn't join the estrogen circle) asked, "What can I do to help?"

And I said, "Can you be my friend?"

To which she replied, "I was hoping for something easier.."

Yes, sweetie. It is NOT EASY to be the organizingmommy's friend. The hedgehog who tries to do too much in too little time with few resources and has nothing to give back to her friends these days.. Meltdowns are everywhere. Life is volatile. High maintenance friend alert! Everybody run!

There's an entire support group out there called "Jena's friends", and their job is not easy.

And if you want an easy job... try organizing your shoes or something. But please, please only be my friend if you want a really hard job! LOL!

Exhale......

2011-09-13T16:12:00.000-07:00

So, I know you'll ALL be disappointed, grieved, and despondent to find out that I will no longer be teaching preschool art. I know. I know. horrible. I just had a really hard time making the transition on Tuesdays from teaching Language Arts to 7-12th graders and study skills with ACT prep and then immediately plunging into graham crackers and finger painting. So thank you, Michelle (mama at Hallstrom) for taking it over.

I'm going on faith that someday I'll be an awesome grandma and do art with my own grandkids. But today.... I am very relieved!!!

So, I suppose you are all wondering how Emily and I are doing at our vintage school? Let me tell you, Wally, it is swell to the max. I just got done helping Emily on her Victory Drill Book, copyright 1970. Actually, it is so straightforward. Do you remember the days when we didn't have to include entertainment with learning? Sometimes I think the youngsters today are so overstimulated that a good dose of Times Roman 14 textbook is exactly what they need. And here's a thought: a reading textbook for six year olds with no pictures, except for a few token ones at the beginning to make sure you can find your phonetic bearing.

And how is Barbara Billingsley handling her Language Arts classes? Well, Barbara is handling things much better than Ward. Ward, the poor chap, asked very sweetly for some clean white T-shirts for tomorrow. Thankfully, I have an emergency stash (I kid you not) of T-shirts, underwear and socks in unopened packages for just such a mid-week emergency.

Today, Barbara decided that she is going to let her students decide how to decorate the classroom. Some talked of an aquarium with strobe lights. I'd like to hear all of their ideas before I come to some conclusion. As for now, I've managed to remove the broken clock, the vintage poster of a past president, the third grade looking poster that says "Let's Learn" and other random nit-noids.

So, I'm having a blast. Teaching is coming back to me, and I like it. And the kids are on the planet. I'm not sure what planet, but it's the planet that I'm currently on, so that's all that matters, eh?

I'm a stay-at-home mommy

2011-09-08T07:35:00.000-07:00

"What do you do?"

"I'm a stay-at-home mom. "

Except..... when I'm doing other stuff that takes me out of the home. The other stuff like: teaching pilates, wire management (professional organizing contract), English teaching at a Christian school, Study Skills and Preschool Art teacher at the homeschool co-op, and blogging are just some of my "hobbies".

So, today, I am laying aside all of my hobbies and focusing on my real job--being a wife, a mother, and a homemaker. And it feels good.

Thank you, Lord for my "real job"!

They might even call me an organizing mommy by the end of the day!! Woooohoooooooooo..

You'll be happy to know..

2011-09-06T17:31:00.000-07:00

* You'll be happy to know that the poppy seed I've been faithfully carrying around all day between my incisor and eye tooth on the left side is finally dislodged. It was a really awesome thing to have that big black blop there all day--not quite as special as a tongue piercing or something--but special nonetheless.

* You'll also be happy to know that God's will has been revealed.

Emily came bounding up the steps this weekend and jumped into my room and said, "I know God's will!"

"Good! Can you reveal it to me, then?"

"No! Mommy! I sounded it out. I sounded out G-o-d's w-i-l-l"

* After her first full day of school, Emily was sitting on the bed lining up all of her carebears and playing some sort of game with them.
"Did your carebears miss you today, Emily?"
"No Mommy! Carebears do not talk. They are stuffed animals!"

"Oh, thanks for being such a pragmatist." I so dumb. When did she stop playing make believe?
I think she is officially done with being the perpetual three-year-old that we all think she is. She was relieved when they did "real school" in class like reading and writing. Enough games already.

Are you sensing an ENTJ? yeah. me too. No thanks to her mother. I was an ENTJ for years and lately I've been coming out more like an ESFP. I need to order the real test rather than just take the free Myers-Briggs that they have online.

Speaking of ENTJ, I gave all of my Hallstrom study skills students AND the Regents Language Arts students the learning style indicator (Myers-Briggs) and multiple intelligence tests to start off the year. Some of the kids really got into it. It really helps me to get to know the students and custom-fit the curricula to their needs.

But I will say this. I am tired. It's a huge waveshock not only going back to school but going back with the house sort of half finished, new (last minute) responsibilities, and just everything all at once. I'm not overwhelmed, but I need to keep close tabs on my walk with the Lord. If you think of us, pray for us.

:)

Is this even legal???

2011-09-05T06:15:00.000-07:00

Yesterday after the church meetings, I was trying to strong-arm one of my friends into coming over for lunch. Yes, I really do have to strong-arm people into coming over. Sometimes they are too busy. Sometimes they don't like spontaneous hospitality. Sometimes they don't like beans and rice or whatever.

But usually I can get somebody to come over. So, I have to start early with my "campaigning". And then my friend, Becky, pulls a fast one on me. She asks me to go OUT to lunch with HER. What's that about? Is that even legal? You wouldn't believe what happened next. My family went home and made lunch without me... AND we didn't have any guests over. I feel guilty even typing this.

But it is true. I told my daughter what to make for lunch. No guests came over (primarily because some of the regulars were out of town..) and nobody died even.

So, I got to see what the rest of the world does on Sunday afternoons. Interesting. People eat in restaurants on Sundays. Did you know that? I think I saw many Christians in the restaurant we were in--some of them were dressed up and praying together before the meal.

It's not that it's BAD to eat in a restaurant on Sundays, but why would you want to? Don't you guys think it's so fun to have a bunch of people over for lunch? or any meal for that matter? I was just reading in the book of Acts how people broke bread and ate together.. like.. all the time. No wonder people were added to their numbers. It was a blast!

So, I was thankful for the special time with my friend. Thanks for the lunch, Beck. It was fun to see what the world does on Sundays. But I'll be booking a table in my favorite restaurant (home) for next week.

2011-09-02T19:17:00.001-07:00

O.K. this vid will make your whole weekend. I am going to be the lady in the green outfit someday. Love you guys!!

The biggest question is..

2011-09-01T11:52:00.000-07:00

So the biggest question everyone is asking me is this-- So, how's IT going? And I wonder if they are talking about our big decision to send Emily to a school, or my decision to teach at the school. No, that's not it at all.

Everyone wants to know how I am surviving without FACEBOOK???? I am here to tell you that there IS life after facebook. Therapy has been going well. Therapy involves living in the real life.

Actually, the truth is this. I've been too busy to even miss it. What I do enjoy, however, is that a few of you are actually reading AND commenting on my blog now. That is special.

So, IT is going well. And so are my new responsibilities. I am very excited about my new "job" of teaching at this school. The kids are cute, the teachers are awesome, and the situation is ideal.

I even have a "vintage" classroom! Have you guys ever heard of this thing called "chalk" ?? It's really cool stuff. It comes in yellow or white, and there's this big board behind me that is green. They call it a chalkboard. When I was six, my mother bought me my first chalkboard so I could play "teacher". Well MOM, life has gone full circle. I am playing teacher now.

I would really like to round out the vintage theme by installing a woodstove and giving each kid a slate. EXCEPT... there are a bunch of computers in that room also. Not sure how it is going to fit with my theme. Help me out, ladies. How would you design this classroom?

Oh, and there are uniforms! I don't have to wear a uniform, but the kids do.

Darling, I know. Can you just picture how CUTE Emily is going to look in this??? LOVE it.

So, all of these vintage looking kids in a vintage classroom. Maybe the 1950's era? Leave it to Beave, Wally. I think I'll dress like Barbara Billingsley--A line flared skirt, button-down pocketed shirt (tucked in, of course), heels, pearls, the works. Where to get some vintage stilettos at the last minute??? It's so swell, Wally.

So this is what I've been hiding..

2011-08-30T23:47:00.000-07:00

It's 1:00 a.m. and I can't sleep. So, I've been tickled to my toes about all the God has been doing, and I think I'm ready to share what is going on.

So, let me start by saying this. As soon as you think you've got God's will all figured out for the rest of your life, think again. And just because you've been doing something the same way for for 14 years does not mean that God won't call you to do it differently on year 15.

So, what am I talking about? I am talking about educating my children. I think you all know that I love teaching my children. I've taught my kids all by myself. I've combined my kids with other people's kids for a school at home option. I've taught other people's kids in a co-op setting, and I've had my own children taught by other people in a co-op. So, I've run the gamut of homeschooling venues.

But a few weeks ago, a small booth at the Winnebago County Fair caught my attention. For some odd reason I was drawn to check out: Regents Christian Academy. When I stopped at the booth, I politely told them I homeschooled.

Anyway, have you ever tried to dismiss something and have it come popping back into your life? This is the way I felt about this Regents school. I even prayed that the Lord would get it out of my head. Why am I always thinking about this school?? As soon as I prayed, the Lord had the pamphlet show up unexpectedly as I was cleaning up the room.

As I thought about this, I was reminded about Emily and how little school she was getting and how much she would probably thrive in an environment like this. I even brought it up to my dear husband, whom I thought would instantly tell me it was a bad idea. And then I could just forget about it.

He actually thought it sounded like a plausible idea and suggested I get some information on the whole thing. So, I made a phone call and set up an appointment.

Here's what happened next. I found out that this school is probably 2 miles from my house. I found out that it is essentially a parent-run school with very small class sizes. (plus. plus. plus!)

The theology of the school couldn't possibly be more biblical and practical. Even though the school is incredibly small, they are trying really hard to meet all of the academic requirements of an accredited high school. (Since the school is very new, I am assuming they are not accredited yet?)

Instead of wriggling out of this, I was easing into it--including the part that I haven't mentioned yet--teaching language arts for 2 hours/ 3 days a week.

After many confirmations from the Lord and specific answered prayers on several levels.. (I can't go into the details of what I asked God to do to confirm this for me, but they are very unusual, specific things) both Emily and I will be enjoying Regents Christian Academy this year.

My other three children will continue to be homeschooled and enjoy their various academic pursuits here and through our homeschool co-op.

So, our adventure is starting! So, I have dropped various activities just to make this transition. My husband is very supportive of this also. We are so excited for Emily who is just bursting at the seams ready to start.

For those of you who are greatly disappointed in us, I have no apologies. We are following the Lord and his leading. We take each one of our children as a gift from God and specifically asked the question, "What is best for THIS child, Lord?" And putting my reputation as a homeschool-mommy enthusiast on the line is actually a very humbling thing for me to be going through right now. I was very concerned about how the other moms would take this news, and I have been pleasantly surprised at how supportive everyone has been.

So, for us, it boiled down to this idea: Do we worship home schooling? or Do we worship the Lord?

I can hardly describe the peace I am experiencing right now. It's so last minute, and yet the timing seems so right. So, I hope you will rejoice with us in this endeavor. Thank you so much for praying.

Getting out and jumping in..

2011-08-27T06:38:00.000-07:00

I love people. Maybe a little too much sometimes. I love just hearing about their days or what they are feeling at the moment. But I think I've become too "networked" for my own good. I think you all know what I mean. Facebook overload. And once you are so enmeshed in it, it is almost impossible to pull out--except cold turkey.

Which is what I plan to do after this weekend. Cold turkey. No more facebook account. I'm sure there will be withdrawls.

I'm sure I'll be going over to my computer 15 times a day to see what is up with everyone. But I will get through this. I have to.

Because... I have been offered an opportunity to do something that is going to involve my energy, time and commitment. And it is going to be harder than teaching preschool art. I need to focus, get my life organized and listen to God. I need prayer. I need help. I may even need a maid. (well... not yet..)

And the worst part about this is--I don't feel the liberty to go into the details right here. So, you can pray and if you want to keep up with me, I have a phone, email, and this blog. And you can even see me in real life--too!!

thanks!!!

THINGS that were said recently to me..

2011-08-25T07:35:00.000-07:00

We have this saying in our house, don't say something funny or it will get on the blog. It's almost true. The only time it isn't true is if I forget it. Sometimes I'll leave the anonymity factor intact, which keeps me from losing all of my friends...

Funniest thing said to me by another Hallstrom mommy: (We were in the very hot fellowship hall and I had just been outside in the rain and had gotten chilled and she says) "Take that sweater off. I'm going to barf just looking at you!" I quickly obeyed and whipped off the sweater. Please don't barf you middle-aged mommy who is having a hot flash..

Funniest thing said to me at the Gospel booth at the fair this past weekend: ( A little girl wanted to spend the entire afternoon with us in our booth making balloon creatures. After being there for about an hour she looked at me and at Emily and said..) "So, are you her grandma?"

Scenario at home: (One of our friends' kids was hanging out with us and both of us had our feet on the footstool together) "Boy, you have really big feet!" I assured her that I had both big and awesome feet.

And.. some REALLY AWESOME things that were said recently...

"Mommy, this food was really good" from Emily (age 6) who basically eats nothing and likes nothing.

(I promptly went into the livingroom to figure out who told her to say that, and there wasn't anyone. She came up with a compliment on her own)

"I see that you have been domestic today" from Will after I had cleaned up the bathroom/ bedroom on Monday.

and my favorite from my son as he left for his second year of college yesterday...

"I love you too, Mom.." with a little bit of emotion in his voice. :)

And we're off!!

2011-08-24T07:03:00.000-07:00

There's no way to prepare yourself for the wave shock of starting a new school year. In our family we go from 0-100 in under a week, most of it happening the day or so prior.

So, what do I mean? Well... I got this call on SATURDAY night.

"Hey our teacher for preschool art is very sick, and we need a teacher.." (for the entire semester)

Thankfully when the message was on the answering machine, they did not hear me say "NOWAY, uh uh.. and NO"

And then I got to thinking. As crazy as this sounds, I probably should do this. I have too many adults in my life right now anyway. I need to reconnect with the little people of this world. My Emily was all excited about being my "helper" for this project. In fact, she went around collecting things all over the house to help me get started.

I didn't even have the heart to tell my mother this yet. My mom is so good with little people. Maybe I could just transform myself into my mother for an hour each week??

Anyway, I took the bull by the horns and wrote out a plan. Each week there will be a color theme. So, this week, the color was RED. I had red objects for them to look at, I gave them each ONE red marker and one page to color. I gave them some red food to sample: apples, strawberries, and strawberry twizzlers.

I brought my big bell. I scared the moms into thinking they had to help me. I scared the kids into thinking they had to listen to me. I scared all of the siblings of the kids into thinking they had to help me too.

And I came up with a child questionnaire for each parent to fill out. It had really awesome questions like this:

Small motor development:

Does your child know how to hold a crayon or pencil?

Is your child safe with scissors?

Can your child use a glue stick?

Do they want to eat it?

I haven't fully recovered enough from the first day to actually get the surveys out and read them. But I will. I have to because next week is YELLOW. And I am no chicken. I'm going to dress like one though to complete the theme, probably. But as far as having a good first day in preschool art, I think it was a success, even though I didn't say EVERYTHING that I might have wanted to. I'm sure the message was clear. But just incase it wasn't:

Here's what I didn't say but wanted to.....

And where will you be (EXACTLY) if your child: wets his pants, throws up, throws a tantrum, kills someone, or takes off all of his clothes? Because I will not tolerate these things. And if you think this is a daycare, think again. The first mom who complains about the way I do things is signing up to teach. So there.

With a Mary Poppins attitude like this, I think I should probably teach others how to run a preschool, eh? What's with that high pitched sing-song voice that all those early-education people have anyway? Tell the kids what you expect and then expect them to do it. You don't need to make a song out of everything. When I ring the bell, I expect you to sit down on the line and be quiet. When I say "Color this with a red marker" that's what I mean. There aren't a lot of other options.

So, next Tuesday is yellow. If every preschooler out there is not wearing yellow, I'm going to be upset. In fact, if any body who reads isn't wearing yellow, there will be consequences. just sayin.

How's that for fun?

A "domestic" need?? what on earth is that??

2011-08-18T10:14:00.000-07:00

You know how my sweet husband and I have been married for 20 years? Is there anyone who reads this blog who doesn't know that? probably not. I talk about it all the time. I'm proud of it, but I'm also so grateful for it. But the thing is--I feel like I'm just now starting to figure out what he needs.

Have you guys ever heard of guys having what they call "a domestic need"? me neither. It's sounds kind of archaic and well.. 1950's. And after all, isn't my husband too spiritual for all that?

Oh, so yours isn't either, eh? Somehow this just bristles with this image I have. It goes something like this:

Old, dishelved, fat man in a big lazy boy with a bowl of popcorn in one hand and a bud light in the other. He flops his comb-over to the other side and shifts his huge belly to the other side.

"Hand me the remote, will ya?" belch.

That is sooooooooo not my man, OK?

Here's the revelation. It is possible for fit, handsome, not-lazy man who doesn't own a lazyboy and hasn't seen the remote in a decade to actually have a "domestic need"..

I know. I know. shocking.

So, my dilemma is this: how do I up and begin to meet this need? It sounds overwhelming.

I know with the whole "organizing mommy" persona I have going that a whole lot of you are duped. (not all-- thanks Juli of Herding Grasshoppers) but the casual on-looker could potentially be duped. I'm just sayin.

The real is this. I enjoy "moments of domestic brilliance" shrouded by hours of domestic chaos. I think it is the chaos part that is dragging this whole domestic need thing into focus.

It's not like he complains. It's the look of pain that he has when he says, "so I guess I'll grab something at work to eat?" or " I really need some more shampoo" (and it's been the 14th time he's asked me..)

So, maybe I've been going at this whole household management thing all wrong. I think I'm going to start over with: what do you see as the 5 highest priorities? and then what do you want me to do and what can the kids do?

So, there you go. Yes, I've been very busy. And yes, it's been a little chaotic here. But I need to refocus on my family and their needs--since there's only so much one organizing mommy can do! How about you? How do you guys get it done? And what are your priorities?

Happenings..and pictures

2011-08-16T19:31:00.000-07:00

The summer has been a blur.. but not too busy for this: playing games with friends after chapel//lunch at our home. My friend, Juli plays a mean game of scrabble!

And this: meeting my most faithful blogging friend/ commenter: Mrs. P of Pursuing Titus 2.

What a fun time! She and her hubby and five kids drove their vehicle and trailer to our little home and we got "an eyeball" of each other for the first time! (Although she and I both think we may have met a long time ago at Aunt Kathi's?? possibly when she was 14 or something?)

And going to a friend's house for a picnic/ party to celebrate his new "man kitchen"..

But most recently--the mighty floor project..

Thanks so much to my precision-minded engineer-type husband who made a wood floor into a work of art.. and to all the boys who helped out so much!! We nearly fell asleep on the job Sunday night, but we finally finished everything we could do with the rented nailer at 2:00 a.m.

Some people are insane, and that includes us. Thank you very much.

The death of an idol--the birth of a floor

2011-08-13T05:30:00.000-07:00

So, what does a middle-aged mommy make into an idol?

Oh, where to start? There are so many... but let's just start with our homes, shall we?

For some odd reason, those of us who have gone the homemaking route, some how feel entitled to an awesome home. After all, I'm serving God here, so it should be awesome, right? In order to serve God the way he has called me (wife, mother, homeschooler, hospitality queen, etc.) I have to do it from the home. And since I've laid down my worldly ambitions (in theory, at least), God should honor me by making my dwelling not only large, functional, equipped but beautiful as well, right?

Right.

Except that here's the kicker. The main purpose of serving God is not just doing the task in front of us--such as changing a diaper, pulling weeds or serving some beans--it's to make us more like Christ. And making us like Christ is sort of a custom-tailored job--not a one-size-fits-all job.

There are many of us out there who feel like our main "ministry" is from the home and many of us do this is a similar way. There are as many varieties of this type of ministry as there are people who do it. And as soon as we take our custom-tailored-by-God-method and try to export it (in any fashion) to the next person, it becomes a stumbling block of legalism and rules. Instead of thanking God for the privilege of having such a high calling, we find ourselves in an unthankful comparison state that leaves us feeling defeated and un-provided for.

And what seems to come to easily to someone else is such a hurdle for us! And what God has provided so easily for us, it a major stumbling block for someone else! And so on. That is one reason why I cringe at how-to manuals for homemaking, homeschooling and Christian living in general. Granted, they give a lot of great ideas in the general sense, but when they are written with the spirit of "do it my way because I am awesome" that is when I have a little shiver that goes across my neck. And then my hair (that is already standing up on end) just stays there in a permanent point for a long time..

And that is not to say that some of us don't look at the awesome mommy blogs and have the same reaction, but if you are getting that from this blog, I'm going to have to scrap all 9 million posts and start over. Just so you won't have to do that, may I present to you--my idol. (O.K. one of my idols)

The floor.

The beautiful floor.

The beautiful hardwood floor.

that isn't stinky carpeting.

that is going to actually look nice when I clean it instead of looking crappy like this stinky carpeting.

yeah.

10 years of trying to whine, convince, manipulate, beg, etc. my husband into getting me a new floor.

Finally, last summer, I was completely out of steam on this issue. ONCE again.. we had a little cash that was spent on something else.. again.

And I finally resolved myself this: THIS is exactly the floor that God wants me to have and I need to be thankful for it--right now. I decided that this was indeed an idol AND that it was time to sacrifice it-once and for all.

A tremendous peace followed that conversation with God. I can't say that I've never tried to pick it up again, but I was able to lay it back down quickly.

A year later--guess who is getting her floor put in-- today?

Yeah. you guessed it.

God is so good. It's not worth holding on to those idols, ladies. Let 'em down so he can lay it down.

The interpretation..

2011-08-11T05:41:00.000-07:00

So, if you missed a post and you have no idea what the dream was, it is here: the dream.

I asked for ideas about what the interpretation/ meaning might be--just for fun. But we have this friend, Michael who, without much ado, gave this interpretation:

The driver's license is your identity. The credit cards/ debit card is the worldly goods. By saying you've eaten your credit cards and your driver's license, it is saying that you have died to the concept of your identity being in worldly things. When it was hard going down, it is saying that it was/is really a struggle to do this. But the peace/ contentment/ relief was saying that it really is better to have my identity in Christ. The joy and the peace of having died to these things is very real.

I found it very encouraging. I'm not saying that I've attained this, but I liked his interpretation, and I really love this song to go with it. I think I'll download this and put it on my cellphone ring. Love it!

For those of you who are new to the Josties, they are an awesome homeschooling family who makes music and videos. We are really having fun with some of their stuff. Enjoy!

A "prophetic" dream? or just a..

2011-08-09T20:19:00.000-07:00

So, I'm having this dream and it is very real.

The dream goes something like this. In the dream I am asleep, except I am in that groggy state where I am almost awake and I've just realized that I have eaten my debit card, my credit card, and my driver's license. I am about to eat the checkbook and the taste of the paper was awful and I try to spit it out.

In the dream I contemplate trying to get the stuff up but realize that it's no use. I've already eaten it and there's not much left to do except spit the remaining check out of my mouth. And while I'm trying to figure out if I should eat more credit cards or just sit there, a strange sense of relief comes over me and I realize that I don't need those things anyway.

So, that's the dream.

My first thought was that I have pika--you know where you crave the ashes from the fireplace and leftover spoons.

When I gave this interpretation to my mother, she said, "no, you don't have pika; you have goata"

goata?

Yeah, you know.. "goat-a" like a goat. They eat everything in sight--even credit cards and stuff.

Or maybe I just ate a spider or a moth or something and that was the thing that felt like the checkbook.

And then I realized that in my dreams, I'm always eating something I shouldn't be eating. Not like chocolate or donuts. But in my dreams, I tend to eat stuff that isn't food. But this dream kind of hit me hard, and I was even half-way surprised to find everything still in my wallet when I got up.

So, give me your interpretations, and goat-a has already been taken. And after you give me all of your thoughts, I tell you what our friend, Michael said. And he is all about this kind of stuff--dreams, interpretations, visions, etc. In fact, I won't be half surprised if my dream will be the subject of his next sermon or devotional. Because it is THAT interesting.

So, calling all prophets, creative thinkers, and the wise counselors of Babylon (and beyond).. Where is Daniel when you need him?

Hyper mommy of a senior in high school..

2011-08-04T15:11:00.000-07:00

Didn't we just do this? Didn't you guys just barely make it through Jamie's senior year of high school? O.K. well, some of you are still reading, so it probably wasn't as traumatic for you...

NEVERtheless, we have homeschooled child, #2, Joanna Kay, aka: Jo-snazzer, Jo-with-it, Jo-bear, Jo-Im-not-sure-I-can-run-my-life-without-you... is going to be a senior in high school.

This past week, we made our first visit to a college: The Institute of Art in Schaumburg. She brought her photography portfolio and we met the academic advisor assigned to her--Leah. Already I love Leah. Already I love the school. Does Joanna? I think she does, but she is going to another interview tomorrow (without me) because hyper mommy needs to get a life!! (enough said!)

But I am sure the Lord is this or something similar because you have seen some of Joanna's photography on this blog. Granted, not every picture I post is awesome or even taken by her, but this would be a words-only blog if it weren't for the Jo.

Not only does she have THAT going on, but she leaves in 3 days for Portland, Oregon for Prizewinning Photography 1 and 2. She found this on her own and it seems like a wonderful (Christian!) photography training program. I hope she posts things on her blog while she's gone 'cuz there isn't going to be much happening around here for photographs!

So, she's sewing the last few dresses and things she needs for her trip. Meanwhile, she is registered for the ACT. School starts (regular homeschool co-op school) starts in less than 3 weeks.

So, what classes does she have this year? Off the top of my head, I would say: Model UN, Anatomy and Physiology, Algebra II, Drama, Government/Econ, French, and I'm probably forgetting something.

Oh, and what about senior portraits, graduation ceremony, party, trip, you know the routine...

Pray for our Jo. Safety, direction and for God to speak to her about her future training after high school. Thanks!

Another funny youtube

2011-08-04T10:25:00.000-07:00

For those of you who are looking forward to yet another homeschooling year starting, you need to meet the Josties--an amazingly talented homeschooling family who puts out hilarious vids. Enjoy.

Need your advice here..

2011-08-01T19:59:00.000-07:00

My hubby is working on his project for his marriage and family counseling class and he is designing a pre-marital program.

Is there anything special that you wish was covered/ discussed during your marriage counseling that wasn't?

Is there something you have learned and think should be included?

Any thoughts??

Modesty? what's at the heart of it?

2011-07-30T08:29:00.000-07:00

Are you ready for your daily dose of brainwashing? Good. Because I've been brewing some ideas in the crucible, and I'm ready to pour the coffee. If you taste some grounds it's because I like it strong, and I'm kind of bold like that.

So, a lot of people who love the Lord Jesus seriously take the idea of modesty very seriously. I mean--isn't this is what stumbles our young people? or old people? Don't people fall into sin over modesty issues? Doesn't this lead to pornography addictions? and on and on.

So, let's define modesty. I think of it as exposing something that should be covered, except in the case of biblical, intimate circumstances. (marriage)

Modesty is not just about clothing; it's about how you wear the clothing. It's actions, words, speech, intent, etc. It's very broad.

That's why making rules for modesty just doesn't work. it's very possible to have a fully covered blue jean jumpered homeschool mama who is immodest in her words or eyes. And it's fully possible for a half clad young lady to not want any attention from others and dresses that way out of ignorance.

Most people who deal with modesty issues mainly deal with the clothing covering up aspect of it because that is the easy one, right? All you have to do to be modest is put certain amounts of clothing over certain parts of your body and the deal is done, right? Well.. not so fast.

This entire issue came into focus for a me a few years ago. I was asked my some of the leaders of our little church to deal with a certain young lady who wasn't dressing properly. She was young, immature, and developed faster than people were ready for. She was experimenting with high heels. You've seen people who can balance on high heels try to walk? I think it looks ridiculous. There's a proper way to wear heels, but you have to have core strength to do it well. I could do an entire post of walking in heels properly, I suppose. I love wearing heels, but I don't think I could have pulled it off at 15 very well.

I digress. So, what do most people do when they "sense" that a young lady needs some direction? They make a lot of rules. a lot of rules. rules on paper. contracts. etc. What?????

Why do I feel so strongly about this? Well, first of all, rules fail to deal with the heart issues. The spirit needs direction first, not the flesh. When the heart is submissive to Christ, not a lot of rules and contracts are needed because the Lord reigns supreme. Or the rules are more of a guideline than a law.

So, let's get a little deeper into the modesty issue and defining it. Immodesty can take the form of clothing choices, communication choices, emotional choices and relationship choices. Well, when you say it like that, aren't we all sort of immodest sooner or later? That's kind of what I am realizing also. The Proverbs 6 woman is staring back at us in the mirror. She's wearing conservative clothing and going to Bible studies. She opens her hands to the needy and her own wickedness is always prowling at the door.

In fact, when the leaders of my church asked me to help this one gal, I was tempted to think this was some sort of way of reigning me in--making me more modest. And then I'm like--that's kind of an odd way of dealing with it--so I dismissed it. But really! Do you feel it also? Is your heart cutting open like mine?

So, despite my own failures to attain to these high standards, I'd like to give me thoughts on where all of this stems from. Where does the immodesty weed sprout and why is so prevalent in some people's lives?

At the core of this issue is fear that stems from being unprotected in some way. A young woman whose father is not protecting her or is hyper controlling (two extremes) will tend toward immodesty. The promiscuous spirit of a young woman is just an immodest spirit that is crying out for loving attention. A married woman who feels neglected by her husband falls into the same trap also. A loving husband also tends to be a loving father, but it is very hard for a man who hates his wife to give any degree of security to his daughter.

The issue for the young woman is security. She feels so insecure and is so fearful that she garners attention inappropriately. She wants to relax in the comfort of God's love and be content in him, but it is like going up a steep hill and ignoring all that is going around you at all times. So, the young woman who isn't necessarily a fornicator but uses her physical beauty and womanly ways as a primary way of securing a man's love is actually a very insecure young lady. She's very powerful, and she knows it. But her primary motivation is probably not a sexual need but an emotional one. She needs the drug-like feel that comes from having a man completely under her spell. It feeds a huge emotional void that has never been filled.

So, what am I saying? Is it wrong for a couple to be completely under each other's spell? You tell me. I've cast a few spells in my day also, but I refused to use those techniques on the man I wanted to marry. Because a love drug, even with someone fabulous, has a bitter taste in the end--especially if that is the only thing you have going for you. The world makes it seem like "love is all you need"--. It's true. Christ's love is all you need--romantic love is the frosting on the cake. But it can't be the entire cake.

Which is primarily what the modesty question asks. How can I make these young women more secure? How can I give them the confidence that only comes from Christ? That takes time. Building true character takes time. Being confident in Christ is the opposite of immodesty whether in clothing, behavior, relationships, or anything. We can start with ourselves. I can not change any random young woman off the street, but I can fill my tank with Christ every day and be secure in him. I can model this happy confidence in Christ. I can not feed their insecurities. I can praise them for what they are doing well--particularly choices that increase their faith in God and holiness toward him. I can give them a big picture of what God is doing in the lives of others. I can help them talk through their insecurities and make sure they know that they have so much more to offer than just their physical beauty. They don't need to hide behind the superficial things of life anymore! And God will provide all that they need!!

And then next time I look into the mirror, I want to see Prov. 31, not Prov. 6. How about you?

ROBE or BORe

2011-07-28T19:02:00.000-07:00

Are you weird like me? What I mean is this: do you find delight in strange things that you know other people either don't like or won't admit they like? I've tried to come up with a name for this concept. It's kind of random--what one person likes is not what another likes. Also, we aren't talking about the normal things that the media thinks you like or wants you to like--or better yet--just assumes that you don't like.

For example, liking going to movies is not random. It's regular.

I once had a babysitter who used to love scrubbing pots. She used to tell me to leave my cookie sheets out so she could scrub them for me. That is random. But for her, it was fun.

So, what I am calling the random endorphin builder, which can be kind of obsessive. Let's try an acronym. ROBE. or BORE either way.. Random Obsessive Builder of Endorphins.. translates into really weird things that I like.

So, without further ado, let me elucidate.

1) Latex paint peeling. Sure! I had to start with the weirdest one. O.K. You know when you want to paint a wall and you pour a certain quantity of paint into a tray? And then you paint the wall, etc. When you are done with the paint, I don't rinse out the tray, I just let the paint dry right in the tray. By the morning, it has all gelled up and dried. Now, if you just peel away a little edge of it, you can get the whole thing out in one peel. Aaahh... so fun! If you haven't done that, it really is fun.

2) Pulling dryer lint. Yes, I know a lot of people love to get the lint out of the dryer. One of my friends told me it was one of her favorite activities to do when she was little. I still love it.

3) Wiping off the table. Now this is so fun. When all of the dishes are picked up, I love washing off the table and making it look fresh again.

4) Pulling weeds. I've said it before, and I'll say it again. Pulling weeds is a lot of fun, especially if they aren't too firmly rooted into the ground. The only problem is that it has been so hot and humid that my attention for this is limited.

5) checking boxes. Love it. I'll make a big list--just so I can check it off. I know a lot of people admit to that one. The movement of the pen in your hand as it checks the box is quite excellent.

Oh, and I almost forgot..

6) Untangling balls of yarn. This one I can't explain, but I love it. If I am stressed out, I'll often take some yarn with me that needs untangling. Some how the pulling of the yarn works out the other problem too. I can not even fathom why or how this works, but it does.

Well, I'm sure by now, most of you have my psychiatrist on speed dial and are needing to make a random report. I respect that.

But the reality of it is this: very few people who love simple things are unhappy about life when large things happen. Just a thought.

Isn't it great..?

2011-07-24T20:18:00.000-07:00

Isn't it great when you can just hang out, play simple board games with friends, eat some basic food, and call it a really fun time?

Pass the scrabble board and roll out the pizza dough.

I love my life.

Confessions: I am Ukrainian.. I think.

2011-07-22T19:16:00.000-07:00

So, if you have any doubt in your mind whether or not I am operating on a stable surface, this next post should convince you that I am most definitely not. But it's such a fun life that I have to let you in.

So, Will met this young guy at the YMCA and invited him to our Wednesday night prayer meeting and this thing we have at our home that we have dubbed "the midnight meal".. it's just a super fun time where a bunch of us get together and cook and eat and hang out until sometimes past midnight. Anyway, Will met this guy, Elijah and invited he and his wife and two babies to our prayer meeting/ home. In all seriousness, it was a wonderful time with many questions asked about Lord! But since I do not go into details about how we counsel/ minister to people on our blog, I won't go into it here. But it was so fun and eternally rewarding, but through the course of the evening, Elijah turned to his wife and said, "Does she ever remind you of my Mom or what?" (meaning me) And his wife said, "totally. everything." Now keep in mind, Elijah is a 26 year old black man. So, I was thinking "cool!" "I am just like a black woman, and they are so hip".. They have cool hair and an attitude. I like. So, I'm picturing this.

But somehow I got out of him that his mother was not black. She's actually Ukrainian. Without a lot of drama, I am picturing something like this:

But then my spirits were kind of lifted when after researching this, I found that all of the internet agrees that Ukrainian women look like this. And.. (I kid you not) are the most desirable women on the planet. Just ask them.

Which you all know is exactly how I look, especially when I lift my hand up like that. ROFL.

So, then as our crazy life goes, Will and I ended up going out to dinner with some work associates and among them was a Russian lady. And I asked her (out of curiosity) if I looked Ukrainian. She said that I really did. What the??

So, don't look now, but this is me in 30 years. Awesome, eh?

As for the hand up lady, I prefer that this stay a modest blog without much fanfare. I've got a reputation to uphold. But if anyone asks me, I'll beeeee worrrrrrkeeng on my Russian accent DAHlink.

Workin' hard

2011-07-19T07:44:00.000-07:00

I grew up in the land of hard working people. It was just part of the survival culture. In the U.P. of Michigan (Upper Peninsula--that section connected to Canada and Wisconsin).. there is a spirit that commemorates the land and the people--hard work.

It might have something to do with the harsh winters, or the bird-sized mosquitos, or the Scandinavian heritage, or the iron mining tradition, the pasties or even the sauna. Whatever the origin, the fact of the matter is this--if you don't like manual labor of some sort, you probably won't survive long up there.

Even the lawyers and doctors have to weather the living conditions or else why would they live there?

So, you learn it. You cut wood because there's trees that need to be cut. You stack the wood because there's cut wood laying around. You haul the wood to the fireplace because there's stacked wood. And you burn the wood because it's cold. See? It all works together.

And that might be why I love hard work. I love working hard.

Don't get me wrong. I have my lazy moments, like yesterday for example. It was so hot, I just barely wanted to do anything. But I put the laundry away and made dinner. And watered the flowers and threw myself under the hose because I could.

And blitzing. I have to blitz. I have a hard time getting started sometimes, so I have to jumpstart myself with a blitz. It always works. I work hard for one hour, and suddenly I've snapped out of it enough to work hard for the rest of the day.

So, the crazy thing is this: very few people work hard anymore, you know? As we say up north "give er" Not really sure where the expression "give er" or "give her" came from but it is a verb.

"We're gonna give 'er, til we're done."

And that's just the way it is.

So, yesterday I was working on something. And I had been working at it for a while and I was trying to decide when I should quit and then I had this thought:

"I'm going work until I stink"

There. How's that for sweet, feminine and gentle-spirited?

So, when I got home from the work that I was doing (it was outside the home), I told my mother how I was going to gauge how long I worked.

"So, I just decided to work until I stink"

And she replied, "Some people wouldn't have to work very hard then.."

yeah. never thought of that.

But I was wearing deodorant. Old Spice, even. So, like... I worked 4.5 hours until I stunk.

Some people work hard until the job is done. Some people work hard til it "aint" no fun.

Some people work until the going down of the sun.. But not me.. I work until people run..

away from me cuz I stink.

yeah.

Summer shots

2011-07-18T08:32:00.000-07:00

July is speeding by, which is good because I am not overly excited about the heat or humidity that we've been having here. Yesterday, it was over 100 degrees heat index. It is a good time to get caught up on inside jobs like blogging and putting away laundry. But notice how I am blogging ? LOL.

So, some friends from our Bible study group have a pool and invited us over on the 4th.

It was a lot of fun!

Thanks Jody..

And Dave.

This is the life, hey Emily??

Another one of the kids adventures was going up north to their friends and working on a movie. Yes, even Emily (our 6 year old) went (without Mom and Dad) on a visit up north for a week!! This costume was designed and made by her sister, Jo for her role in the movie.

Here is the full movie cast. Keep in mind that I have no idea what the script was, the plot, the theme, but I do know this that Joanna made a lot of the costumes and the kids worked on this very hard all week.

Left to right: Simeon Morell, Samuel M, Nathanael Webber, Emily W, Emily Morell, Josiah M, Hudson W, Kara M, and Joanna W. (All the kids are either Morells or Webbers)

Kara in front her barn at home. Love the color of the shirt with the barn in background..

And there wasn't just a movie production going on, the kids participated/ helped out in a vacation Bible school event. Here is one of the teachers.

Only a homeschool family would have 11 kids in their home for a week, try to make a movie, have a VBS and.. why not put in a hard wood floor during the same week? You can see why these guys are my best friends. Insanity loves company, you know?

So, while the youngest four kids were up north, Will, Jamie and I finished painting, gardening, and eating out a lot. Oh, and I did the job of playing this crazy word game app on the IPOD called "7 Little words".. crazy addicting. I made it through the free version, and Jamie sprung for me to get a game for $.99. That $.99 has lasted me for over a week, so I would say it is a good investment.

Now the kids are back, and they promptly went to work corn detassling. Got up at 4:00 a.m. and they are in the fields by 5:30.

So, that is what is making my home sing this week!

cool video

2011-07-12T07:24:00.000-07:00

Some kids that we know made this video. Very creative and clever!

Weeds in my garden: finding your hibiscus

2011-07-06T05:03:00.000-07:00

Here, on the outskirts of Rockford, IL, we live on good rich farm soil.
Around here, planting time is about mid May. And I even got a few of my perennials transplanted before we left on our trip, but that was all I was able to do!

And today.. Oh today. Things grow! I have things growing (that have no identifiable origin) that are 6 feet tall. The area around my compost pile is so big that I can't even find it. Bionic weeds. There are small forest creatures making their home in my garden, I think.

So, the only redeeming value of my outdoor life is what I call "the side garden". It is where we dug up the septic tank two years ago and rather than replant grass, I decided to make a garden. Not being overly sure if planting over the septic line was a fantastic idea or not, I decided to plant flowers instead of food this year. And that area is doing quite well. I am enjoying it and trying to rescue whatever I can find and put it over there.

But one of the challenges that I am facing is this. I had many many perennials down in the weed patch that I really would like to rescue. I know they are down there because I planted them. Right now, the only thing that seems obvious is a small hibiscus. Despite the weeds and nonsense down there, this pretty little hibiscus is doing well--even better than it did last year at this time. And I will probably dig that up and rescue it today.

But it is impossible for me to get down in the garden without some high brow thoughts. I'm convinced that God made gardening for the sole purpose of bringing not just plants, but high brow thoughts to the surface.

My weed patch is like the sea of available young people. In this case, let us call it--all the available young ladies that a potential young man could choose for a wife. (Many of you have sons, so perhaps you can relate to these thoughts. I have three teenage boys and one who is like a son, so this analogy works for me at this time in my life)

So, a young man starts looking around. He sees a garden full of growing things. Wow! There are a lot of girls out there, and some are quite impressive. These big ones in the back are healthy and strong. They attract all of his attention by their obvious qualities. How could you miss them? They have interesting things growing at all angles! They all hang back by the fence together. They look important. In their quest of getting to the big things, they trample right over the smaller, less impressive plants.

Little do they realize that those big things back there are weeds. They are just sucking all of the life out of the good soil. They will never produce fruit or flowers.

But I know, because I am the gardener, that there are one, if not two healthy hibiscus plants down there, along with a few lilies. When these plants reach their full bloom, they are are some of the most beautiful plants in the garden. In fact, I plan to rescue them today. One of them is sitting right on outside of the garden, so that will be easy to find. But the other one, is deep into the garden. I will need to cut a path through in order to get it.

If an unimpressive gardener like me, knows her plants, how much more does the gardener of heaven know his? Blessed is the (young) man who finds his hibiscus--whether he sees it right away or has to travel through some hardships to get it. Don't be sidetracked by the weeds, boys. God has something better in store for you.

And if you have found your hibiscus, take care of it. It will give you pretty flowers all the days of your life.

Med trip: Egypt

2011-07-03T18:22:00.000-07:00

So, it is about a month since I've been home from the anniversary trip to the Mediterranean. I was hoping to post once a week--a post on each country we visited. But alas, getting back into the swing of things has been difficult. So, here we are, the eve of the 4th of July. I should be saying something patriotic. Instead, I am just going to remind you of how great our country is by letting you make the connection of the contrasts between two different countries.

First of all, it is good to travel. It is very easy for those of us living in the U.S. to get the wrong idea of hardships. Hardships in the U.S. come in many forms, like running out of homemade bread and having to make more, or a real hardship--having the dishwasher break, or perhaps, not being to find the remote for the T.V. or ceiling fan for a few days.

But what about having your country in complete chaos? having trash in the streets? This was open trash in the river!! along the highway in Alexandria.

Wouldn't it be fun to be at this roadside cafe??

Here's the rest of the river through the streets. I suppose this is the water they consider "usable"??

Welcome to Alexandria.

So, we were on a tour bus, taking these pictures. I never actually got out and walked through Alexandria. Some of our friends from the ship went out walking and some guy came and grabbed her rear end right out in broad daylight. I guess things are not as "peaceful" as the media detects. Do you feel safe walking around in broad daylight with a group of people? Good. So do I. Welcome to our current free country. Welcome to the land where people fought for your freedom.

So, back to the tour bus. We rode an air conditioned bus for three hours to Cairo. If you are given to motion sickness, riding in Egyptian traffic is not ideal. Thankfully, I was still jetlagging, so I slept all the way there and then for a while on the way home.

So, these are the pyramids. There are three pyramids, rather close together.

When Emily asked me what the name of the pyramids were, I told her, "that's easy. There's the Daddy, Mommy, and baby pyramid"

And they are rather huge. Our $229.00/ per person tour did not include a look inside the pyramids. But I was fine with that. It is a tomb already. How often do you like to look inside a casket of someone who has died a long time ago?

And essentially, the pyramids and the Nile river are the only ancient artifacts left in Egypt. If you love Egyptian history, go to Berlin or London. Apparently, Hitler had a "thing" for ancient relics, so he snatched up many of them (and kept them in great condition), and the Brits, not to be outdone by the Germans, felt the need to snatch up the rest.

So, I've been to Berlin. It is a mecca of world history relics, and I would love to go back. But I haven't been to London, so (obviously) that is on my bucket list.

When my husband asked me how I knew so much about ancient Egypt, I said, "homeschooling, of course!" duh. Everyone knows that's how you become erudite. So, yes, I loved teaching about ancient Egypt. Why? Because we know so much about it. Why do we know so much about Egypt?

It was because they believed in a life after death, primarily the need to bring everything they owed into the tomb with them, so that their ba and ka would recognize each other and live happily ever after. (hedgehog version of Egyptian theology)

Does it look like we photoshopped ourselves into this? No. because we would have centered ourselves better.

O.K. this one was better.

We had various friends from the tour taking pictures of us. The word on the street is that the locals will ask to take your picture and then run off with your camera.

Here are the locals. the pushy locals.

The word on the street was it costs you $5.00 to sit on the camel and only $20.00 to get off.

So, I was like,"no way!"

I got on.

And I got off. I told Will, if they don't get me off, I'll just jump off. I didn't keep myself in shape to get pushed around. So, when they saw that I was in charge, they made the camel get down.

So, this was the Daddy pyramid. I think this is about as close to it as I got.

And then these local kids made us buy these head things. Like that? made us.

But I have to admit, they were quite effective in the heat. And don't they look cool?

Will snuck off and took these.

Back to the air-conditioned bus. I think he looks quite good in this garb.

This was our tour guide. She spoke very good English and was quite a good guide.

And then the bus took us around to the Sphinx pyramid.

O.K. so everyone was making out in front of the Trevi Fountain in Rome, so we chose to mosh in front of the Sphinx. Everyone has their preferences, right?

And then there's this photo. Probably my favorite from the trip. (not the lady in black, above, although that was weird..)

As if all of that pestering from locals, making out in front of the pyramids, and dressing up in traditional Egyptian clothing wasn't enough, our tour included a Nile River cruise.

Not that I've ever been on those casino boats, but this is sort of the way this boat operated. There was an open buffet style restaurant with a space for entertainment and eating.

The boat just went down the river and then back again. It was a nice, smooth ride and air conditioned.

For entertainment, we got.. can you guess? A belly dancer and this spinning man/ whirling dirvish dude.
I'll know you'll be disappointed, but I do not have pics of the belly dancer. Without going into detail, let me pose a question. Why does a culture that makes its women dress from head to toe in a covered garb also take great delight in a mostly naked woman gyrating around publicly? Wouldn't it be better just to have all the women dressed sort of respectfully modest but not oppressively so? (thinking like an American, again)

But this guy was pretty impressive. That skirt thing was around his waist and he was spinning and spinning around. And then for photos he put it in his hand above his head.

And we went up on the deck to get a pic of the Nile river.

So, that is Egypt. I'm glad I went. We should be praying for this country. I know many of you will not get a chance to visit it. And if you ask my husband, he has no desire to go back. But I am glad I went and in 10 or 15 years I'd like to go back.

And it zoomed by.

Other Mediterranean trip posts include: Rome

Bart the Buck

2011-06-27T06:58:00.000-07:00

So, I found him in the trash can, Oh Bart the Buck

He reminds me of my hometown, and the deer camp, Oh Bart the Buck.

He's useful in so many ways.. like helping out with smores and basic kitchen chores..

He's a friendly, playmate for swinging outdoors..

Her new best friend, in whom she adores..

He won't stop at any cost,

to be a helper, even with the chalk..

even in the car, we shant get lost..

Oh I'm so glad I found you, Bart the Buck..

When you need a friend, I'm your buddy...

The world will not end, Oh Bart the Bucky.

Are you feeling lucky?

Can I have this dance, my Bucky? Oh, Bart the Buck.

If there's some learnin' that needs doing..

Some playin' that needs a tune..

I learnt all I know from deer camp..

I even howl at the moon..

Just give me a little 'ttention

And a little chore to do..

Cuz I'm just a helpful little creature
Bart the Buck is here for you............

linking up to Moms the word.

open Parmesan cheese containers..

2011-06-24T20:14:00.000-07:00

There are certain "indicators" that life is disorganized. One of them is the parmesan cheese test, developed by a well known organizing psychologist, Dr. Ima Hedgehog.

So, it is very easy to administer this test and quantify the results. You don't need to fill out little circles or stick your tongue out randomly to demanding professionals. This test can be done in the convenience of your own home, at your leisure.

So, all you need to do is take everything out of your refrigerator. Some (boring) people call this "cleaning the fridge". This is a serious psychological evaluation. Stop trying to discredit it!

So, after everything is out of the fridge, take a look around. What do you see? Do you see a container of parmesan cheese? good. That means you are a normal American who likes an occasional spaghetti dinner with some parmesan. Give yourself an A. You are organized. Finishing cleaning the fridge and go to bed. What is left in life to conquer?

Do you see more than one open container of parmesan cheese? Uh-oh.. things got a little messy this week. Someone went ahead and started a new container before the first one was gone. You get a B. Now, if you had an assigned location for parmesan cheese, your family and guests wouldn't have gone foraging around for more.

Do you see three containers of parmesan cheese? Well, what have you been doing? How long has it been since you cleaned the fridge? probably 3 weeks or more. You are getting a C.

Do you see four containers of (open) parmesan? Do you have a secret life? Opening a pizzeria? You clearly do not have a menu plan and eat the same thing every night. Your kids probably live on pasta. D.

What about five open parmesan cheese containers? I'm not sure what to think. . They are still making this stuff. Do you have a hoarding complex? See a professional. F

So, what has prompted me, Dr. Ima Hedgehog, to develop such a thorough psychological organizational evaluative tools?

Very simple. The FIVE open containers of parmesan cheese that my daughter found while cleaning the refrigerator of one of her clients. I can't divulge who her client is but I think she has a traveling addiction , five children, and loves to tell crazy stories. She loves to write about organizing without a whole lot of thought about whether or not she is actually feeling organized at the moment.

This client suffers from delusion and lacks no amount of self adulation. Nevertheless, she means well, so we did not charge her for the evaluation. She has opted to go without therapy, claiming that blogging is her therapy. whatever. There's not a whole lot I can do for people like that.

Back in the saddle..

2011-06-20T21:56:00.000-07:00

O.K. I am really home this time, and I plan to stay home. I may end up going somewhere small this summer, but I really really really need to clean this place up!! Have you ever been so overwhelmed with the house that you don't even know where to start?

That is kind of how it was this morning. I knew I had to start somewhere--anywhere, but how can I make progress in such a large house? and so much going on?

So, when I feel that way, I try to start small--in a corner. In my case, small is my bedroom and bathroom. If I could just sort the dirty clothes from the clean. If I could just put away my cosmetics/ toiletries from my suitcase. If I could just put the shoes in the shoe pile, rather than all over the house.

So, I put in my IPOD and just blitzed the bedroom and bathroom for an hour. Put away clean clothes. Sort dirty clothes. Hang up. Toss out. Wipe off. Put away. Make bed. check, check, check.

And it ALWAYS feels overwhelming.
And it ALWAYS feels great when I do it.

And this is what keeps me from being a professional procrastinator. I have retrained my brain to reach for the endorphins at the end of the hard-work tunnel--even before I officially arrive at the other end.

I have managed to reach the rewards at the end of hard work often enough that I can load up and charge on a sort of endorphin credit, if you will--knowing that the job WILL get done because that's the way it is going to be, and I will like every minute of it.

Which reminds me of a story. Yes, another story.

Did I tell you this one yet? I hope not. But if I have, here it is again.

So, we're in Brussels, waiting to board the plane for Chicago. And the gate keeps switching, the passengers were dragging their suitcases from here to there, and someone randomly asks what was going on or when we were going to get on or something like that.

So, I answered them.

"This is what is going to happen. We are going to get our seats called, we're going to board the plane, we're going to get on, read the inflight magazine, get a snack, watch a movie, have a nap, have another meal, watch another movie, and eight hours later we'll be in Chicago, and we're going to like every minute of it!"

Well, this lady just laughed and laughed and asked me how many children I work with. She was not at all surprised when she found out I had a large group of my own children and randomly parent anyone else's child who needs it at the moment.

Later on in the flight, I found my friend. I asked her if she had completed her checklist of things to do on the plane yet.
I told her,
"I really don't like a flight that's under eight hours. It's hard to get everything on my list done in less time.."

She just giggled every time I opened my mouth.

and I think her flight was enjoyable, if it wasn't I didn't give her permission to not "like every minute of it"!!

So I'm looking into the trash can and..

2011-06-14T16:11:00.000-07:00

It's never the big events that get put on the blog, you know. Sure, I went to Egypt and almost got "bought" by a 14 year old for about 50,000 camels, but that never gets on the blog. Sure, I went to Vesuvius and the bus driver sings opera "Falicula" all the way down the mountain. Sure, I met some terrorists in the airport, and do they make it? no. I think not. (Well, I was profiling on the last comment, but still...)

What do I write about here anyway? trash. It's all about trash today.

We had just finished the last counseling class at Moody today and I was about to throw out my cup of pop in the trash can, and I noticed something.

horns.

well, not horns.. antlers. So, sure enough, I reach my hand in there and grab the antlers.

Now this is where what I do marks a division between what normal people do and what I do.

Would a normal person notice antlers in the trash? Would a normal person reach in and pull them out?

I'll leave you pondering those questions while I explain the next thing that happened.

Those antlers were attached to a small (16") ceramic deer.

So, as you can imagine, I have a beady-eyed 12 point buck staring at me right now. The computer helpdesk fella just stopped in his tracks and wondered if I had brought a pet into the computer lab with me.

I have a friend who has a seizure dog with her at all times. I feel left out, so I carry a small 12 point buck with me. It makes me less homesick. Not that I'm actually homesick. But if I were homesick, a small deer would be just the thing to console me, wouldn't it?

Or the sound of a chainsaw. I love the roar of a good chainsaw. That also makes me homesick for the U.P. Sights and smells of home--a waft of freshly cut birch and the vision of woodchips flying in fountain formation. Doesn't get any better than that.

So, back to the deer.

As I was hovering over the trashcan, a man walks out of his office and notices me with it. He told me he was cleaning out his desk and he had that deer for 25 years. This was his last day at work. Man, the stories that deer could tell! I don't think I've had anything for 5 years, except my husband and kids. O.K. my parents. But nothing like a ceramic deer.

So, now the deer is going on a new adventure. First things first. I need to get this deer out of the building and bring him home to Rockford. He'll be sitting amongst the Chinese lanterns that Joanna ordered for her birthday party this weekend. I'll be putting post-it notes on his antlers. I'll be drying small dish cloths on his back. I'll be giving him a new lease of life. And in the process, entertaining every naive person who reads this blog.

Another day in the life..

2011-06-11T06:40:00.000-07:00

"I'm going to have to interrupt this very important travel-blog with some real life happenings. I was going to be totally disciplined about getting trip stuff up, but funny things happen. And if I don't "write in the moment", I forget the crazy details, and then.. it reads like a newspaper headline--choppy, stiff, formal, blah. You have newspapers if that's what you want to read, eh?

So, let's set the scene.

I'm in my car driving home. I had just been to Chicago to pick up my husband from Moody and I dropped him off at work. I was on the very end of my journey and there's this crossing of two roads, about a half a mile from my house. For those of you who know my area, it's the crossing of Meridian and Kelly--cornfields on all sides. There are no buildings, no stop lights, just a basic stop sign.

So, while I'm stopped at the basic stop sign, I notice two old guys, hobbling along carrying suitcases. Well, they weren't that old, but like 50-60ish.. and they looked hot and exhausted. I figured their car broke down and they needed a ride somewhere.

So, I stopped the car,

"What are you guys doing?"

"We're headed to Sioux City, Iowa"

"Did your car break down? Are you planning to walk all the way there?"

"No, we're trying to catch a ride. We're hungry, thirsty, broke... anything you can give us will help."

"Do you have any weapons on you? Anything at all?"

No weapons. A small pocket knife. I handed them a jug of water. One of them drank it down speedily. I handed them $4.00 cash. (It's all I had in my wallet) I looked around the car for some food.

No food. And then I prayed.

"Why don't you guys come to my house and I'll give you lunch. And I'll drive you to your next stop."

And then I got to thinking. I have two men in my car and I'm bringing them to my house. What are my kids going to think?

Hiya kids! Mommy is home. I know I've been gone all day, but can we invite these two homeless guys in and feed them lunch?? They are safe.

So, that is pretty much what we did. I didn't tell them that I had like.. a million kids. And if they had any intention of doing anything sneaky, a new kid (bigger than the one who just came out) kept coming and coming out. Finally, one of them asked,

"So, how many kids do you have?"

At that point, I really wanted to say "12"--just incase they wanted to pull something.

But I was honest and said, "only 5"..

To which one of them said, "Five?!!"

And when you are a tired old man, I guess five seems like a lot. When the are 15 and already 6'1", I guess that seems intimidating, eh?

So, I never did feel unsafe in any way--which is, of course, what you are wondering. I did watch them like a hawk, but the Lord gave me a peace the entire time. I know we live in a crazy day and age where horrible things happen to good people all the time. I am not naive, but the Lord was in this. And it is a sad day when you can not respond to the promptings of the Lord because of fear.

So, I gave them some lunch and asked them to give me their personal stories.

Don is 51 and grew up in Escanaba, MI (an hour from where I grew up). He has worked the carnival circuit all his life--a wandering kind of life. He has children--all by different women. He claims to be born again, but he seems to have very little understanding other than the basics. I asked him if his mother was alive and he said she was. To which I asked, "What does she think of your nomadic lifestyle? and how often do you call her?" (Don's mother, you can thank me later, OK?)

Mike has a sadder story. He had a farm in Iowa and was doing very well financially. One day the market went down and he lost everything and his wife. He took to drinking and depression. He ended up in Rockford to try to live with his daughter. His daughter's husband beat him up and kicked him out. Now he was homeless and helpless. Wounded in body and spirit. He showed me the deformities on his hands where his daughter's husband had injured him.

Both guys met at the Rockford Rescue Mission and agreed to hitch-hike together to Iowa and find work there. Don hitch-hikes all the time. Mike looked scared to death of the whole idea. These guys hardly know each other and yet they are embarking on this dangerous journey together.

From there, I explained to Mike about the saving grace of the Lord Jesus. And gave him a Bible, $10.00 more, two water bottles each, and seven peanut butter sandwiches.

So, we loaded everybody back into the car (including big teenage son) and drove them to where they said they wanted to go. When I got the spot, I said, "If you promise to read the book of John before you go to bed tonight, I'll bring to to Byron"

to which (Don) responded, "how far will you take us if I agree to read the entire New Testament?" LOL.

(for those of you who are following this geographically, they were not permitted to hitch-hike along the main highway, so they had to take the back roads)

I just dropped them off in Byron. Mike was so respectful that he refused to call me anything other than "Mrs. Webber"--even though I am probably younger than his daughter. And I asked him to call when they got settled.

So, when Will got home from work, he said, "And this all happened.. today?!!????" yup.
Another day in the life.

Another day in my hedgehog, who-knows-what-is-going- to-happen next life!

Roma

2011-06-09T19:27:00.000-07:00

I'm finally getting to putting up some posts from our Mediterranean honeymoon trip. Our first stop was Rome, or Roma, as they call it.

Although our cruise was all over the Med, it started in Rome, so we arrived here a day prior to the trip and were able to see one major site. I really wanted to see the Colosseum.

We went on an English tour and tried to learn as much as we could in the short few hours that we were there.

It is estimated that over a million people died in this building during its heyday. I honestly felt like I was standing on holy ground.

When people say that the debauchery of our country rivals that of ancient Rome, I am not sure we are there yet.

People were killed in this auditorium for the mere purpose of giving others pleasure of seeing a gruesome battle.

And if that did not satisfy their needs, there were plenty of orgies and other forms of wickedness going on below the main events. I can only imagine what it would be like to be a true believer during this time of history. Probably the safest place for avoiding sin would be in the mouth of lion--not that I am advocating bringing back such atrocities.

More photos from Julius Caesar's Forum area.

A "gladiator" who was a large part of the colosseum events.

History speaks, do we listen?

I should be organizing, but..

2011-06-04T12:59:00.000-07:00

Here I am sitting in my living room, wanting desperately to enjoy life and feeling the pull of the basement clutter coming to choke me around the neck. Seriously, stuff makes me nervous. So, I did a half-mast organizing job on the upstairs, though and that is about all I am going to do.

So, what's a half-mast job look like? It looks pretty good, but it is not at all kosher. Basically, you dump the contents of whatever is bothering you out on the floor and reduce it two piles. Pile number one is everything you want to keep in this space. Pile number two is everything else. Everything else is a combination of stuff to save, trash, and UFOs. Pile number two is a great big indecisive pile.

Then pile number two goes into a paper bag into another room. Pile two is a project for another day.

Yeah. impressive. I know.

And then you go outside and have a water balloon fight and promptly forget about the piles, both good and bad. Because this is summer, and I need a life, already.

See? Isn't that awesome? I need to write a book or something an somehow copyright my awesomeness.

And why am I writing about organizing INSTEAD of writing about my trip? I promised a trip post or two. My bad. Have you ever left town and kept your five children at home (without another adult there?) ?? yeah.

So, of course, the house was still standing. But beyond that...

So, there's nothing like a couple of piles of grunge and clutter to inspire a massive organizing blitz. Except that it's about the heat and the humidity that has descended on our environs.

Do you remember last year when I was complaining (almost non-stop) about the heat and humidity?? So, know how much I love it, eh?

But, we are about to embark on the busiest summer in a long time. In fact, our beloved summer Orchestra (NICYO) is probably not going to included in our busy schedule this year.. :((

And.. despite the fact that I rarely even write about organizing, let alone do it anymore, I am going to be doing some part-time professional organizing soon. I didn't apply for the job; they just found me. I don't even tell people that I do this because... like.. who has time to work?? But they made me an offer I can not refuse. I can work as few or as many hours as I want on any kind of schedule I want. How can you beat that?

Also, I love a good party. And that is good, because we are going to all of them this year. All of our friends, our friends' kids and our kids' friends are having parties for some reason or another: Graduations, birthdays, or weddings are the top parties. We only have three this weekend.

And Hud is taking driver's ed now. So, we'll be launching our third driver. Thankfully, he got all B's or above in his classes or he'd still be riding his bike. And I am not kidding. And "Hudrielli" as he currently calls himself, is taking cello this summer again, probably a summer camp also.

And then I have this friend in Wisconsin who wants ALL of our kids to come and spend two weeks with her to have them be a video that she is making. On what? I don't know. But, of course, they want to do that. Don't blame me if they become famous or something. I just serve lunch around here.

Of course I want to teach pilates again. Teaching pilates is one of the only things that gets my tush to the gym and other locations like Hamilton Sundstrand and Inner Elements and maybe at some church in Rockford--working with homeschooling mommies. (I have a special burden for my fellow homeschooling mommies because everything in the universe works against your fitness goals when you are in this stage of life!)

Joanna is planning her 17th on the 17th birthday party, which will actually be on the 19th. She's hoping to attend a Christian photography camp in Portland in August, AND go to Wisconsin for two weeks AND corn detassle, etc. And it wouldn't bother me if she actually figured out what she would like to do after high school??

Jamie is working full time at Hamilton Sundstrand as a co-op. Other than attending a Bible conference called "Vessels of Honor", he doesn't really have a life. That sounds bad. O.K. He has a life, but I'm not sure what he is doing other than working, hanging out with the family and going to the gym. I suppose that is enough.

Nathanael is planning to corn detassle and go to Wisconsin, but his summer is looking pretty relaxed so far. He did help me plant some of my garden this year, which I am so thankful for. While we were gone on our vacation, I kept wondering how on earth I was going to put in a garden. So, I am thankful for the free tomato plants and a worker to put them in!

Emily has a one track mind. All she wants to do is go to Magic Waters--a nearby waterpark. And I'll be honest, I love that place too! Yeah for the wave pool!

So, now that I've gotten all of that off my chest, I think I'll relax and go organize something. LOL.

Two weeks of vacation is almost over..

2011-05-30T07:53:00.000-07:00

Here I am kissing the Sphinx.
Goodbye Egypt; it was fun. What?? I didn't tell you I was going to Cairo?? Well, to tell you the truth, I wasn't even sure where I was going before I got on the boat.

So, we are back from our Mediterranean cruise. We are still in Italy, as I am writing this. But the internet was about a $100.00 an hour on the cruise ship, so I do not think I could budget internet time.

In short, this is where we were: Rome, Egypt (Alexandria, Cairo), Greek Isle (Khios), Turkey (Istanbul and Kudashi/ Ephesus, Greece: Athens, Corinth, and lastly: Italy again (Naples, Mt. Vesuvius, Pompeii)

So, now I have go and have some more fun in Italy. I'll be writing a lot soon!!

Thanks Jojo

2011-05-15T18:20:00.000-07:00

My wonderful daughter made me a dress. Here's her post form it. Jo-withits portfolio.

We are leaving tomorrow morning for our anniversary cruise. Pray for safety and a good time! thanks!

They love me here at Walmart..

2011-05-11T21:03:00.000-07:00

My Grandpa Al, who currently lives in the nursing home, gets a little confused at times. I guess that's why he's there. Confusion. Confusion between night-time and daytime. and who his girlfriend is. and where he is.

"They love me here at Walmart!' he told my Uncle Rick when he went to visit him. He has resolved himself to the idea that he lives at Walmart.

"I would move out, but I only have $3.00 to my name."
"All I need is a plot of land. I think I could even live in my truck"

And my personal fave:

"You wouldn't believe how many girlfriends I have here! I must have 12 girlfriends.."

Yes, Gramps, you have 12 girlfriends at your home, which is, as we all know, Walmart.

His current girlfriend was a gal, twice his size, who ran over him in her "poly-wagon". Gramps called his little cart thing that keeps him on a buzzer a "polly-wagon" because it is made from polyuerethane. Apparently, "Tish" has one also, and that is how they met.

Have you ever wondered where you think you'll be living some day? How would you like to spend your final days at "Walmart"?? However you find yourself in the end of the earthly journey, I hope your heavenly journey begins with being in Him, all the days of earth and heaven.

Happy Mother's Day, Mom.

2011-05-07T22:09:00.000-07:00

I am so thankful for my MOM! She is a great friend, mentor, therapist, and godly woman.

Sorry we can't be together for Mother's Day, but I'll be thinking about you all the same.

Thanks for the great trip to San Francisco--where we had more fun torturing perfect strangers than anyone should be allowed to do.

1. Are you a professional square dancer? (I asked a lady right out of the blue) And she said, "yes, I square dance. How did you know know?" (To this day, I have no idea how I knew that she was a square dancer..

2. Are you a Newfi? My Dad is a Newfi. (Well, actually just when he's in Newfi-land. )

3. And why are you hitting on my Mom? (to this guy who looked to be 46..) I mean she's hot and all, but..

4. Could I knit on your scarf for a while? I love to knit on the airplane. (to another perfect stranger who graciously handed over her knitting to me. I even spliced the yarn together for her and made some progress on her scarf)

5. And (my personal fave) "So, you are living in sin, then?" (to this couple who was acting rather guilty, and interestingly they both confessed to it... I think I'll put up a booth..)

So, those are just a few of the snapshots of the nonsense mom and I got into during our San-Fran trip. Love you Mom!! Look forward to many more crazy times with you, as the Lord allows.

The "new" old 80's look..

2011-05-05T07:08:00.000-07:00

And yes, my handsome barber cut my hair again.

I need a cat named Nimrod

2011-05-04T21:28:00.000-07:00

Let's be honest here. I'm treading on dangerous ground. My husband hates cats. So does my son, James. But then again, he agrees with his father on everything, so that is not that unusual.

And then there's Than, who is allergic to cats. I can't say if Jo, Emily or Hudson would graciously welcome a cat either, but I am willing to risk it.

Why? Mouse infestation. You walk down the steps and veer left. Suddenly, a mouse waft arises into the air. It's not a living mouse waft, either. It's your basic dead mouse aroma. So, here's my basic plan.

I buy or borrow a cat. The cat will be named "Nimrod" as in "mighty hunter"--you know, from the Bible.

Somehow, I am going to have to train this cat to love to kill and eat mice. And when he or she possesses the acquisition, it will be rewarded with a piece of salmon (which I will have stocked in abundance for this very purpose).

I am not even sure I will buy a lot of cat food, since the mice and salmon should do the trick for a while.

I hear that cats need litter boxes, so I'll probably have to get one of those also. But this will be a no-thrills pet adventure.

And when mighty Nimrod catches his first mice, he will be given the royal robe and crown, paraded around on a white horse and given a glass of champagne with salmon. And then we will gradually decrease his awards until the thrill of catching mice is its own reward.

So far, most of my children have threatened to move out if (and when) I ever do carry out this plan. So, I may need to keep this in my hip pocket until the house becomes too crowded or something.

I'm also wondering if I can borrow a cat when Will is out on a business trip, and maybe I can get the whole thing done before he gets back? But then I would be like the pied piper, attracting felines from all neighboring counties.

Once the word gets out that their is champagne and salmon offered at the Webbers, there will be a veritable caravan of cats, tigers, chihauhaus, and ambitious teenagers visiting us daily.

On second thought, perhaps a job offer in the local classifieds would do the trick. Do cats normally read the paper? I mean.. I know Garfield does and all, but...

Send me your tired, restless, homeless, yearning to be free.. (cats) and I will give them a job and a treat. You can have them back in a few weeks.

One of my favorite remedies..

2011-05-04T10:42:00.000-07:00

I'm not one of those herbalist mamas who knows every treatment for every ailment. But I do love and cherish their advice. But if I come across something, it is usually from an accidental conversation with a perfect stranger. So, consider your source. But this was something that really has been a good thing.

I was out sightseeing in Thailand. There were a bunch of us ladies whose husbands were associated with the Airbus (A-320) symposium in Bangkok--2008, I think. Anyway, maybe some of you have done this tour of the floating market? You get on these fast boats and go through a million little villages until you reach a floating market. We found everything from alligator skinned ukeleles, to peacock feathers to mumu dresses. And just when I thought I was done shopping, someone attacked me with this stuff. Two tiny little bottles for only 4baht? or something like that. This lady was rubbing it on my temples. I think I officially went into a trance. (As if Bangkok itself doesn't do that to you..)

Nevertheless, the little bottles of "Tiger Balm" as they call it, really do work. I use it to clear my sinuses.

Now be careful, though. You do NOT want to put this in your nose or too close to your eyes. It is very powerful. The closest I can get it to my nose is on the cheeks or forehead, and even that makes my eyes water. It's just a very powerful ointment that they say helps muscle soreness. I use it for colds. I still have my two little bottles, and we haven't run out of them yet. Although, someday I may have to either 1) go back to Thailand or 2) order some more. So, I put up a web address for ordering some. I am also thinking about checking out my local Asian market. So, if you want to order your own, Tiger balm can be found here.

Maybe I'll use the excuse of lack of Tiger balm to go back to Thailand. And then, of course who is to stop me from the great massage, thai food, and thai silk? (and the lively taxi rides!)

20 years ago..

2011-05-03T07:47:00.000-07:00

This year marks a few milestones for the Webber family. And maybe that is why I've been such a non-existent blogger.

First milestone: Our oldest son, Jamie, just finished his first year of college and is home already. As far as I can tell, he had a wonderful experience (away from home) and going to a school in a different state. I know not every child is ready to leave the nest directly after high school (especially after being homeschooled the whole time), but our Jamie was ready times 36.. He was ready to go a year before he left home, but we kept our children on the traditional high school/ college schedule.

After weighing the strengths and weaknesses of sending a child off to college early, we just opted for the traditional time table. I think he was capable of handling college level material at around the 8th or 9th grade, but it didn't make sense (for us) to do it that way. We had wonderful resources through our homeschool co-op to challenge him academically, as well as socially. So, his final G.P.A. has not hit the email inbox yet, but I am expecting he did pretty well overall. He starts working next week at the same company Will works at--Hamilton Sundstrand. I think we are all excited for his summer job opportunity.

Another milestone (for me) is--20 years ago, I graduated from college. I went to Western Michigan University and got a degree in secondary English education. Nothing special or fancy. No earthquakes happened the day I graduated or anything too exciting, but it was nice to have it done. I was a complete nerd in college, and my GPA reflected accordingly. Nevertheless, graduating with honors did nothing for me in the workforce because I was more focused on my upcoming wedding than anything else.

And of course, the biggest milestone was getting married to Lieutenant William H. Webber--only five weeks after graduation. I did some subbing at the local high school, but mainly, I just started preparing to be a wife.

Walking on a cloud is the only way to describe those days. I could not imagine being married to a more honorable, respectable, godly, handsome, and faithful man. By the way he handled our relationship (in honesty and purity), I knew I was in for a great life. And everyone else knew it too! My parents were really happy for me, and that meant a lot.

So, it's been 20 years. I am assuming that most people at this stage of their lives are just as busy as we are with work, kids, home life, and ministry. So, in order to celebrate the 20 years and reconnect as a couple, we are planning a Mediterranean cruise--leaving in about two weeks. Will really enjoyed the convenience of the cruise, and we found something at a good price.

So, I have a feeling that this last minute cruise prep and these other things we have going on ( St. Louis for Robotics, last two weeks of Hallstrom, pilates teaching, kid home from college, previous trip to San Francisco, spring banquet, and various hospitality adventures and now a head cold!!) is keeping me from getting any sort of decent blogging done.

Here's for 20 years! May another 20 be right on our heels.

Together as a family.. again

2011-04-29T21:36:00.000-07:00

Reporting in live from St. Louis, MO.

Between enjoying all of the facebook and media buzz about the Royal Wedding, and the beautiful sunny day in St. Louis, we had the added pleasure of having our sleep-deprived college son fly in for the big National Robotics Competition.

So, we are enjoying the home of Scott (Will's brother) and Liz (his wife) and their kids. Half of our family is downtown at the hotel, and the rest of us are here at the house. Jamie finished his first year of college and took his flight here (instead of going directly home) and has been sleeping almost the entire time.

Joanna and Hudson are directly involved with Robotics, and their team (2039) is ranked 18th out of 80 as of tonight. There is one more day of competition.

After lunch, Jamie, Nathanael, Emily and I went up into the arch and enjoyed the beautiful day. Did you know you can ride a tram up (inside) of the arch and see the whole city? Pretty amazing. and clausterphobic. but great, all the same.

While we were waiting in line, there was an Amish looking family right behind us. Is it possible to see one of these families and not think: cute? I think not. Anyway, I went ahead and started talking to them because that is what I do.

"So, are you Amish?"
"No. We are Mennonite."
"Oh, so did you have to take the horse and buggy all the way here from the farm?"
"No. We actually have a car."
"Oh. We took a car also. I suppose that is what you expected, eh?"

(I am a genius with words, you know..)

In the meantime, I am wondering where on earth they would park a horse and buggy downtown St. Louis.

So, then I asked them, "Do you homeschool?"
(Keep in mind that they did not initiate any conversation with me. They just kept answering questions. As my husband says: did they enjoy their interrogation?)

So they affirmed that yes, they did homeschool.

And then I added, "We homeschool also."

I know already what they were thinking. Do they let the heathen homeschool? I was wearing pants and big boingy jewelry. The boys looked normal. But Emily. O.K. Emily dressed herself this morning. She had on a colorful top and pants, a toothless grin, a kitty hat on, and tennis shoes ON THE WRONG FEET, with a big beaded necklace and a large backpack. The purple kitty hat was a knit hat with the big ears flopping and strings hanging, with little tufts of straw-blonde hair peeking out the sides. A sight. indeed.

And if they had been listening to our conversation (BEFORE) the interrogation, I was grilling Jamie about his current G.P.A. and what teachers were leaving at Hallstrom, and how Nathanael needs to join Math Olympiad for "bullet points" for his resume/ college aps and all this other worldly "stuff".. I guess we don't sound like homeschoolers, except that in this day and age, they come in all shapes and sizes and levels of heathenism.

And you all know that we are Christian. My levels of heathenism extend into this: dressing as normally as possible and educating our children beyond highschool. Well, I guess teaching pilates might put some people over the edge also, but that is getting more and more accepted.

But I'm not the kind of Christian who looks at the outward appearance except to the degree that it reflects what is in the heart. And what is in someone's heart is very evident (to me, at least) more so on what they say and how they say it. Their attitude will often be reflected by their clothes, but it can not be hid from their faces. I can tell just by looking at someone's eyes what they are thinking or struggling with. I can tell if they have Christ, or if they are faking it. Granted, I am not 100% on my conclusions. But it is scary the degree to which I can guess things about people. But I digress.

When I told them that I homeschooled, they did ask what curriculum I used, which I assume was a round about way of figuring out if we had any faith beliefs. And I hope they were pleased to find out that there are friendly people who love the Lord, even when they leave the farm and their community. And strangers aren't such bad people after all--in fact, some of us are kind of funny!

So, the real moral of this story is that no one is safe from the organizing mommy, even if you are trying to hide behind a Mennonite outfit. LOL.

San Francisco Trip!

2011-04-19T06:08:00.000-07:00

Mom and I buying scarves in Chinatown..

Mom hanging out.. downtown.

Pilates studio that I visited..

Pomelo restaurant.. ginger/ lemongrass tea..

fish tacos.

Dinner out with Carol, the pilates teacher..

and her husband, Joe the Quilter.

Joe at his studio..

Fisherman's wharf.. sightseeing..

And that was our trip! Fun times--thanks Mom.

I'm back!!

2011-04-12T22:25:00.000-07:00

Don't you hate it when a perfectly good blogger drops off the face of the earth for over a week--without even an explanation??!

O.K. I am back, and I do have an excuse. I was traveling. Someplace.

Seriously, I went somewhere-- not far enough to confuse Carl, but I did get beyond O'Hare to...

I think you should guess.

Trolley cars.

Fisherman's wharf.

Alcatraz.

Golden Gate Bridge.

Are we there yet? Of course we are-- San Francisco!!

Remember how I told you that I hardly ever travel beyond Pecatonica or Belvidere? Well, that is true and all, except when it isn't. And I never seem to know when the next opportunity to go somewhere is going to hit. In this particular instance, my Mother had a school board convention and asked me to travel with her. She had to be in meetings for a lot of her time there, so I would have a ton of time to go around and explore things on my own.

So, we arrived on Friday, and Mom and I walked from our downtown hotel to Chinatown. We explored Chinatown and ate a decent Chinese restaurant.

On Saturday, Mom had her meetings. I had signed up to take some pilates classes, so I took the Muni (city bus system) into Noe Valley for the day. I loved, loved, loved my time at: Sanchez Street Studios with Carol. I ate a wonderful restaurant called Pomelo--which was walking distance from the pilates studio. That night, Mom and I had a great meal at a downtown, French-themed restaurant called Roots. Very excellent.

On Sunday, I was able to take the BART into Hayward to have fellowship with some friends that Will had known since his pilot-training days, when he used to sleep on the floor of the late Bill McDonald's apartment almost every weekend he could get away. Everyone still remembers Will from his time out there. They could hardly believe he had 5 children! ( I am thinking it was 20 years ago when he first had his B-52 training??)

When I got back to the hotel, Mom was ready to explore Fisherman's Wharf and take the trolley.

And then we came back on Monday.

I have photos to put up, but that will have to wait. And there ARE funny stories. I just have to dislodge them from my brain..

Another youtube funny

2011-04-01T20:17:00.000-07:00

From one of my facebook friends from the northeast. I would like to do: Yoga for Yoopers..

Rough draft, revise, tweak, revise..

2011-03-30T06:58:00.000-07:00

No, it's not a writing course!

It's my life. Do you guys do this? I think I've got the perfect plan of a schedule worked out, and then I realize that something is out of balance.. Because we all know that being a woman/ mom is just another word for rubber band.

We stretch it and pull it in one area until it gets tight, and then we boomerang back to the other side, all the while exploring the perimeter of this band from all angles. And all the while we are hoping that the sides of this thing don't start to fray and break.

In fact, have you ever had the whole thing break? In the rubber band of life, have you ever had it just go "snap"???

For those who have had it snap and collapse once, or even more than once, are always on a campaign to not let it happen again--not to us and not to our friends.

Define snapping. OK, I'll define snapping-- something major that happens that brings to light all of the little things that we've been hiding or not dealing with or didn't even know were there. Something that causes a complete meltdown in the family or an individual.

And then we spend a lot of time trying to figure this out so that it doesn't happen again.

So, life is basically just that--a rough draft that we keep tweaking and revising.. revising and polishing. and reworking.

And we get a little older and a little smarter and we look for warning signs. And we try to listen to the Holy Spirit and figure it out before it gets out of control. Whatever "it" is, "it" needs to remain in balance.

So, I'm trying to rework my schedule in order to meet my family's needs better. The problem is--their needs keep changing--sometimes faster than I know how to deal with them. But it's O.K.

It's that time of year.. when all of the homeschooling mommies are planning next year's schedule while frantically trying to get this year's schedule accomplished. Except the energy to finish this year's schedule is already gone, and we want summer vacation--NOW, and the snow is hardly gone.

So, there are 5 weeks of Hallstrom left (with one break week for Easter), during which we'll be headlong into all that spring entails--project fairs, bowls, bees, Robotics nationals, graduation, weddings, birthdays, summer jobs starting, etc. etc. etc. So, pray for me as I try to figure out a "survival strategy" for the spring, summer and next fall. You know that I will enjoy every minute of it, but I also want to make good choices with my time and do what is best for each one of my kids!

So, how is your rubber band stretching these days??

New jobs..

2011-03-24T21:26:00.000-07:00

O.K. so I got the job.

What?? You don't know what job? !! Duh. the lunch lady position.

This is how I know I got it. My six year old walks into the room and asks me to pull her tooth out while I was talking on the phone. See? I'm hired. I'm awesome. I'm a lunchlady.

I was trying to find that commercial with those crazy kids singing in their garage about lunch ladies. No can find. Do you guys know what I'm talking about?? Not that I want to upstage Adam Sandler's famous Lunch Lady song, but I feel I could add to the song, you know? He's about my age, and I am quite certain that the lunch ladies on the east coast were just as Italian and bossy as ours up north. And ours were efficient. They didn't JUST serve lunch; they pulled teeth.

But I'm not the only one who got a job this week. My mother. She's awesome. In fact, she's exploding from sheer awesome-ness right now.

What's her job? Official family basketball betting consultant per final four extravaganza.

Oh, well, if you must know. My mother was "highly encouraged" (pestered, cajoled, manipulated, etc.) into placing her bets with the rest of the family for the final four play-offs. I think our entire (extended) family stops all normal functioning during the final four. Not that I would be adverse to playing, but up until 2 weeks ago, I still had not been able to wrap my head around what a "bracket" is.

So, my mother placed her bets. She used very logical techniques for deciding.

Let's see here--I like the way Villanova sounds.
I'm from Marquette, so that must be a good choice.
And Cousin Fred is near Butler.. and so on.

Meanwhile, my Dad and brother spent countless hours strategizing for success. Can you guess who won the bucket of money? My mother, of course. She is trying fit in "successful final four betting strategy" classes into her already packed schedule. It's gonna be tough, but someone has to do it, Ma.

And last, but not least, my son, Jamie, got offered a job for the summer at Hamilton Sundstrand. He was not to be upstaged by his mother and grandmother, so he opted for a paying job. Imagine that.

We are thrilled on so many levels. It's hard to not jump around the kitchen (in my knee highs, hair net and rubber gloves!)

And I don't even have a lunch lady...

2011-03-22T20:46:00.000-07:00

For those of you who went to public schools, you may remember the infamous "lunch room". The lunch room was actually the gymnasium turned into a massive cafeteria where the entire school gathered for lunch, except for the teachers. The teachers were released from their duties for about 20-40 minutes.

Enter lunch ladies. Lunch ladies were like the mini-gestapo of the elementary school. They directed traffic, served lunch, monitored messes, broke up fights, and chided the kids for not drinking their milk.

They had other duties also. My lunch ladies always pulled loose teeth. If you walked in with a hanging one, you left with it in your pocket. Lunch ladies were not a force to be reckoned with. If they said, "open your mouth" and suddenly put their fingers in it, you were at their mercy.

In fact, my mother, to this day, insists that all of my loose teeth were pulled by the lunch ladies.

I can't remember her name, but she was Italian looking, short and plump and rather brusk. She pulled the tooth that I ended up leaving in my desk at school.

What's a first-grader to do?? I had to leave a note for the tooth fairy, and hope that her all-seeing eye would somehow "know" that the tooth was in my desk! And I had a very limited vocabulary, so half of my words were pictographs. Picture this in a six-year-old scrawl.

Dear Tooth Fairy,

"The (picture of a tooth) is in my (picture of a desk) at (school). Put the (tracing of a coin) in my (desk).

Thank you
Love, Jena

Can you believe it? The tooth fairy DID NOT get a clue and deliver my coin or pick up the tooth as scheduled.

At least my Emily knows her tooth fairy personally. One of friends found out that Emily lost a tooth and promptly reached into his pocket and pulled out a nickel. Since we've never done the tooth fairy thing with our own children, we have dubbed our friend Ryan as a tooth fairy (in addition to his other titles like head dishwasher and most recently--job finder for oldest son)

So, Emily lost one tooth, and then she promptly lost two more, and now.. there's this one front tooth. It's right smack in the top front. It is hanging by a thread--a weak, spindly thread. You know it looks ridiculous. I just want to get my fingers in there and yank! but No!

I am not a lunch lady. I can't even find a lunch lady within 100 miles of here. I think I'll put an add in the paper.

Looking for a noon-time supervisor for a small school, located in the country. Duties include: serving lunch, breaking up fights, pulling teeth and writing memos to various agencies, specifically Tooth Fairies inc. No experience necessary. You will be paid in nickels.

What do you think? Anybody need a job?

Frugal fashionista/hacks/ entertainment

2011-03-21T18:08:00.000-07:00

We are rounding out the final cool days and heading into spring around here. It's kind of that transition time where you want to wear spring colors, but on some days, it's just too cold. Joanna made this green/ white necklace to go with my thrifted turtleneck/ sweater combo. Sweater ($3.99) Turtleneck (1.99)

Here's another thrifted combo. I love this jacket. It is a light-weight stretchy denim with a sweet tie and zipper. ($2.39) and the orange top ($.49) and skirt ($6.99)

Jewelry by Joanna.. (of course) Boots from my mother.. And no, I did not buy them at the same time. Everything comes in the house one item at a time.. It's the thrill of putting stuff together that is a fun time for me!

And for our frugal "hack", I volunteered one of our guests. This is Lee. He is an elder at our small church.

Everything he does is found on the pages of his little book. He is constantly taking notes, writing prayer requests, figuring out whatever he needs to do, or places to be, or people to visit. He's a busy guy, and his brain is in this book. Well, can you imagine the horror he faces when something happens to his little book? It's awful, but not insurmountable. In fact, he didn't even read a frugal hack blog to figure out how to do this.

That's right. When his book got soggy, he replaced the workings with the cardboard from a Raisin Bran box.

Downright brilliant. Frugal hack times 42! He gets 42 "organizing mommy points" which can not be redeemed at any store near you. And of course, this guy is an engineer who thought I was a complete idiot for wanting to put this on my blog. I assured him that there would plenty of my "fans" who would be thrilled for yet another way to save money and go green at the same time.

And last but not least, frugal entertainment. There's nothing that says "free" like a free walk outdoors.

We have this great little place that is near our home, and I'm sure if you look around, you'll find them around your home also.

Outdoors is free, and it is so good for you.

Just drag those kids of yours off the couch. Make your husband, kids and friends go with you outside. Nobody is going to die from a little fresh air.

In fact, they may live a tad longer because of it.

Or at least have a little fun with what time is left.

What do you think? Any time for fresh air this week??