Spring has sprung! is that how the saying goes?
For me it seems as though things have just "sprung" out of control. This month has been excessively grey and rainy. It has brought about the demise of my lap top and the first kiss for my daughter, thus the demise of innocence. In the air have been false accusations and betrayals. Please, oh please bring on the flowers of May
For with the month of May comes the promise of Summer, the end of a school year, and hopefully sunny skies and a newness that revives us all. I've never been one to suffer much from depression but this spring has been taxing to say the least.
As a family we have a lot on our plate as we try to finish up the house in Amboy. God bless Andy as he has pretty much been a one man band at the task at hand. Because of this we've not had him around much and when he's been with us he's been exhausted to say the least.
Easter was certainly a bright spot as it always is. God and Family is what this holiday is about for us and it was so good to see so many at church and in our homes. It has been too long.
Hoping to get a new laptop soon as I miss blogging and random writing but just feel less than inspired in the space where our family computer is located.
Today was the royal wedding of Kate & William, the sun is shining, Andy will be home ...lets hope it's a good day.
Many blessings to you....I'm asking for prayers for me....God knows the concerns and the outcome...I find comfort in that.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Monday, April 11, 2011
i want a big new home. new furnishings, the most up-to-date technology. i want a new car one that is economical (is there one out there?). i want an up-to-date wardrobe. and i want all this for my children too! and your children. but here's the thing....i must first pay for and tend to the things i currently have. some are paid for...like my car for instance. but guess what? it must be maintained. and thankfully we've managed to budget accordingly to pay it off early, and set funds aside to ease the blow when maintenance is necessary. in addition we try to set aside money because someday i'll have to purchase a new car and i want to be able to pay for it. same goes for my houses. only i haven't paid for both of them yet. and as for the clothes, well many times i've had to make do. i've worn shirts with stains, pants that were uncomfortable, underwear that were too big/small, bras that were worn out, socks that didn't match and most recently pants that were too big (i bought a belt).
you see, who doesn't want new. who doesn't want better? and most want bigger. but is it smart to buy new & better when what you have still isn't paid for? when you don't have the funds to pay for what you currently have? when you're not quite sure on what the bottom line, final cost will be? well, from those econ classes i've taken, and of course from all i've learned from dave & his financial peace university i'd have to say no.
if that course in money management, examples from our government, and observing other examples of financial crisis' have taught me anything it would be that sometimes you just can't have what you can't afford.
i know this ....in most cases if you can't afford what you currently have ....you're often going to be hard pressed to afford newer & better.
it's a life lesson and a tough one at that. i know because i was beyond spoiled. and i prefer to get what i want when i want it. however, what i want when i want it isn't always in the budget.
....well, unless you want to help me pay for it....not sure how much i'll need from you but as soon as i get all i'm after i'll let you know what you'll need to contribute.
you see, who doesn't want new. who doesn't want better? and most want bigger. but is it smart to buy new & better when what you have still isn't paid for? when you don't have the funds to pay for what you currently have? when you're not quite sure on what the bottom line, final cost will be? well, from those econ classes i've taken, and of course from all i've learned from dave & his financial peace university i'd have to say no.
if that course in money management, examples from our government, and observing other examples of financial crisis' have taught me anything it would be that sometimes you just can't have what you can't afford.
i know this ....in most cases if you can't afford what you currently have ....you're often going to be hard pressed to afford newer & better.
it's a life lesson and a tough one at that. i know because i was beyond spoiled. and i prefer to get what i want when i want it. however, what i want when i want it isn't always in the budget.
....well, unless you want to help me pay for it....not sure how much i'll need from you but as soon as i get all i'm after i'll let you know what you'll need to contribute.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
h.a.d. (hopes and dreams)
it happened...3/28 was the date andy said to me..."so you wanna take a vacation this summer over the 4th" !!!! now vacation planning is that big of a deal for many but for us it can prove to be. you see, i'm of the opinion it's the planning process that gets in the way. for with it comes a commitment to do something that is months away! we are not good at that. i feel i could be, but one will never know....well, until now that is. so, the week of july 4th (my birthday btw) we will head west! on a road trip to south dakota, mt. rushmore, the bad lands, and who knows what else. to say i'm looking forward to it would be an understatement. for i'll be traveling roads i'm yet to be on. that in its self is an adventure. i can't wait!
golly i have many h.a.d. for this summer already!
on a side note ....please lift up in prayer my friend jessica...she'll be having surgery tomorrow, monday at the latest. and for her family as they will all by going through some changes as she recovers. prayers for peace and healing. pray also for my daughter (& all those who are trying out) who will be trying out for cheerleader this coming week. she's already experiencing a great bit of anxiety and stress.
have a blessed thursday and here's to all of your h.a.ds. :)
kel
golly i have many h.a.d. for this summer already!
- andy finishing the amboy house
- our vacation
- taking in a concert w/ my girl
- hitting up the amusement parks for a thrill or 2
- getting the swayzee house under way
- camp for the kiddos
on a side note ....please lift up in prayer my friend jessica...she'll be having surgery tomorrow, monday at the latest. and for her family as they will all by going through some changes as she recovers. prayers for peace and healing. pray also for my daughter (& all those who are trying out) who will be trying out for cheerleader this coming week. she's already experiencing a great bit of anxiety and stress.
have a blessed thursday and here's to all of your h.a.ds. :)
kel
Monday, March 28, 2011
randoms...what else.
on a light note....
comfort food, snacks, all that stuff that has fattened us up over the years should forever be packaged in canisters similar to the pringle can. for it's a struggle for chubbies to successfully get their hand in & out with out great damage to the goods. and after failed attempts we tend to give up.
paper gowns at the dr. office should come with their own set of markers. that way you can be creative while waiting on the dr. to come see you.
on a bit heavier subject....
I do have many teacher friends and must say they are very good teachers. some my children have had the privilege of having as an instructor and others who are not in our district therefore unable to teach my kids. and i married into a family of teachers. i fully respect all that is expected of them. i do however feel that in any job (teaching included) review/evaluation/dismissal should be performance based. now the 64 mil $ question....performance based on what? i have ideas, regarding this but nothing much more than possibilities. i do not however see the necessity for a required "heads up" on observing an instructor. having sat in on several classrooms as an inclusion aide i was often shocked and bothered by the heads up given to the kids when an evaluation would take place and even more bothered by the 180 in what was a typical lesson plan. : ( as a parent and former school employee i think it sad that a teacher remain employed based on "time" as opposed to effectiveness. ....i believe i was told by and administrator once that 3 complaints is a pattern...and one the school just can't have continue. yet there are those still at it who have exceeded 3 ...some multiple times. with all that said...those who do their job...forever encouraging, teaching, inspiring, shouldn't have a care in the world and if it were like jobs i've held they would be duly rewarded financially for their job well done. !!!
my position on stuff.....
Christian, conservative...(very), not a fan of unions....(at all), open minded enough to respect our differences of opinion.
as for the possibility of a new elementary in our district.....I like a campus concept. i don't like the effect it will have financially for business owners and farmers, i don't care for the potentially devastating effect it will have on my home town of swayzee (supposedly sweeter elem. has a buyer in liberty baptist and converse town is 'booming' compared to the other two), i don't like that the physical size of the classrooms is slated to be smaller in size yet the number of students is not to decrease & for that matter OH is in recruiting mode to entice new students, i do like the reduction in principals...or administrators, however wonder if perhaps that's not something that could happen now not only at an elementary level, but at the jr/sr. high level also. i feel there's a misconception re: tuition kids, allowing the general public to wrongfully assume that the monies brought in from a tuition student would somehow reduce the debt left to the OH community members. (that $$ is solely for education/academics not building) i'm also left to wonder what's gonna change....by that i mean, what's going to guarantee upkeep on the new building? as past precedent is not maintaining. (evidently) where will the money needed come from ...as we've obviously not had it in the past. i don't think NOW when the entire public education system and the dolling out of funds is up in the air, is the time to build and incur more debt for the system and expense for the community. i don't think NOW is the time with the economy the way it is...what's attractive about choosing to live in the highest taxed system in the county who has a HS on academic probation*? (*on probation b/c the state has a set standard of improvement required from yr. to yr. to stay off probation. OH has had great academic success in standardized testing, graduation rates, and attendance and as a result...anything less than perfect in those categories has resulted in a probationary status....this too shall pass...but in the mean time who understands?)
with all that said i am for our children, mine and others. those who know me know i've been one of THE biggest supporters/fan of the kids at OH. and those who know me know that i believe in our system. i'm not a fan of all the "connections" but that's part of a small community. and those who know me know that i'm all for change! i'd love to see a woman at the helm. as i've commented many times before it would appear that a 'good ole boys' club is at work. (siblings, old school mates, church family, family, etc....) it leaves one to wonder what (if any) role nepotism plays.
my take on parenting 401 (the teen years)...
situation 1: teen gets busted (again) for drinking with "friends". teen receives a punishment. some time passes.....teen announces they're off for the night with "friends" ....drinking ensues....teen gets busted. punishment ensues. some time passes teen announces they're off for a night out with "friends"......come on! really parental unit!!! i'm all for 2nd chances but not while my head is buried in the sand.
at some point i have to wonder if perhaps the parent shouldn't be punished as they're being outlasted, outwitted, and outplayed by their teen! if you're done parenting don't bother w/ the punishments....you look silly. and in this case ignorance is not bliss! be aware.
tomorrow my oldest turns 15. wow! she's signing up for drivers ed! looking for work! and planning her future! my how time flies. PTL my 13 yr. old is clinging to his childhood! regardless of the pressures from his peers. i'm convinced that's why he avoids "hanging" with the guys! :) whatever the reason, I'll take it. they grow up way too fast!
comfort food, snacks, all that stuff that has fattened us up over the years should forever be packaged in canisters similar to the pringle can. for it's a struggle for chubbies to successfully get their hand in & out with out great damage to the goods. and after failed attempts we tend to give up.
paper gowns at the dr. office should come with their own set of markers. that way you can be creative while waiting on the dr. to come see you.
on a bit heavier subject....
I do have many teacher friends and must say they are very good teachers. some my children have had the privilege of having as an instructor and others who are not in our district therefore unable to teach my kids. and i married into a family of teachers. i fully respect all that is expected of them. i do however feel that in any job (teaching included) review/evaluation/dismissal should be performance based. now the 64 mil $ question....performance based on what? i have ideas, regarding this but nothing much more than possibilities. i do not however see the necessity for a required "heads up" on observing an instructor. having sat in on several classrooms as an inclusion aide i was often shocked and bothered by the heads up given to the kids when an evaluation would take place and even more bothered by the 180 in what was a typical lesson plan. : ( as a parent and former school employee i think it sad that a teacher remain employed based on "time" as opposed to effectiveness. ....i believe i was told by and administrator once that 3 complaints is a pattern...and one the school just can't have continue. yet there are those still at it who have exceeded 3 ...some multiple times. with all that said...those who do their job...forever encouraging, teaching, inspiring, shouldn't have a care in the world and if it were like jobs i've held they would be duly rewarded financially for their job well done. !!!
my position on stuff.....
Christian, conservative...(very), not a fan of unions....(at all), open minded enough to respect our differences of opinion.
as for the possibility of a new elementary in our district.....I like a campus concept. i don't like the effect it will have financially for business owners and farmers, i don't care for the potentially devastating effect it will have on my home town of swayzee (supposedly sweeter elem. has a buyer in liberty baptist and converse town is 'booming' compared to the other two), i don't like that the physical size of the classrooms is slated to be smaller in size yet the number of students is not to decrease & for that matter OH is in recruiting mode to entice new students, i do like the reduction in principals...or administrators, however wonder if perhaps that's not something that could happen now not only at an elementary level, but at the jr/sr. high level also. i feel there's a misconception re: tuition kids, allowing the general public to wrongfully assume that the monies brought in from a tuition student would somehow reduce the debt left to the OH community members. (that $$ is solely for education/academics not building) i'm also left to wonder what's gonna change....by that i mean, what's going to guarantee upkeep on the new building? as past precedent is not maintaining. (evidently) where will the money needed come from ...as we've obviously not had it in the past. i don't think NOW when the entire public education system and the dolling out of funds is up in the air, is the time to build and incur more debt for the system and expense for the community. i don't think NOW is the time with the economy the way it is...what's attractive about choosing to live in the highest taxed system in the county who has a HS on academic probation*? (*on probation b/c the state has a set standard of improvement required from yr. to yr. to stay off probation. OH has had great academic success in standardized testing, graduation rates, and attendance and as a result...anything less than perfect in those categories has resulted in a probationary status....this too shall pass...but in the mean time who understands?)
with all that said i am for our children, mine and others. those who know me know i've been one of THE biggest supporters/fan of the kids at OH. and those who know me know that i believe in our system. i'm not a fan of all the "connections" but that's part of a small community. and those who know me know that i'm all for change! i'd love to see a woman at the helm. as i've commented many times before it would appear that a 'good ole boys' club is at work. (siblings, old school mates, church family, family, etc....) it leaves one to wonder what (if any) role nepotism plays.
my take on parenting 401 (the teen years)...
situation 1: teen gets busted (again) for drinking with "friends". teen receives a punishment. some time passes.....teen announces they're off for the night with "friends" ....drinking ensues....teen gets busted. punishment ensues. some time passes teen announces they're off for a night out with "friends"......come on! really parental unit!!! i'm all for 2nd chances but not while my head is buried in the sand.
at some point i have to wonder if perhaps the parent shouldn't be punished as they're being outlasted, outwitted, and outplayed by their teen! if you're done parenting don't bother w/ the punishments....you look silly. and in this case ignorance is not bliss! be aware.
tomorrow my oldest turns 15. wow! she's signing up for drivers ed! looking for work! and planning her future! my how time flies. PTL my 13 yr. old is clinging to his childhood! regardless of the pressures from his peers. i'm convinced that's why he avoids "hanging" with the guys! :) whatever the reason, I'll take it. they grow up way too fast!
Thursday, March 3, 2011
prayers for my friends ....my focus is on them today & their families. God has really blessed me with good ones. Thank You God! as I think about my friends I can't help but smile. I've been blessed with the kind of friends who seem to "get me". we all have busy lives yet when we're fortunate enough to get together we're able to pick up where we left off. I like that. many of my friends have kids who are preteen or teens and if you take a moment to reflect back when you were one of those folk you're sure to understand why they (&me) might need prayer. so today i ask that you join with me in lifting up parents & their children.
spring break is just around the corner. we. are. going. nowhere. :( ho humm. trying to figure out and plan for a little bit of fun over the week is causing me fits. kids are wanting (& deserving) to do something fun...truth be told, I am too! who knows...perhaps I'll find something F.U.N.!
today's (&everyday's) <3 list: God, faimly, church (duh...totally top 3), chirping birds, goofy dogs, laughing babies, smiles, laughing children, white t-shirts, laughing teens, purdue...anything, laughing adults, water, friends, long hot showers, baths with bubbles. a warm breeze, honeybell oranges, a wood burning fireplace...& the crackling of the fire, salads, hugs.
what a day today can be. God has blessed you...give Him all the glory! ....Blessings to you & yours.
~ kel
spring break is just around the corner. we. are. going. nowhere. :( ho humm. trying to figure out and plan for a little bit of fun over the week is causing me fits. kids are wanting (& deserving) to do something fun...truth be told, I am too! who knows...perhaps I'll find something F.U.N.!
today's (&everyday's) <3 list: God, faimly, church (duh...totally top 3), chirping birds, goofy dogs, laughing babies, smiles, laughing children, white t-shirts, laughing teens, purdue...anything, laughing adults, water, friends, long hot showers, baths with bubbles. a warm breeze, honeybell oranges, a wood burning fireplace...& the crackling of the fire, salads, hugs.
what a day today can be. God has blessed you...give Him all the glory! ....Blessings to you & yours.
~ kel
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
done with my least fav. month!
goodbye to february. i don't much care for that month. however i did enjoy the snowfall it brought about this year. that was the highlight of the month for me. it's so funny how time flies when you're older. already we're into the 3rd month of the new year! wow! march is a favorite for me. i enjoy the whole st. patty goofiness and the memories i have of many st. patty day celebrations. it's also a month of basketball! nothing beats some march madness! in addition it's a month of celebrations. matt will celebrate his 13th birthday on the 14th. kate will celebrate her 15th on the 29th. my sister-in-law, kim will celebrate on the 24th and my momma on the 25th! woo hoo & happy birthdays!
february was gray to say the least and this day, the first of march is oh so sunny! what a blessing. sadly most all the snow has melted away leaving behind ....mud! ick. last night kate & the OH cheerleaders performed their cheer routine at the 1/2 time of the IWU girls game. they did a good job! and IWU won and advanced to the nationals. it will be the last time this year kate performs as a freshman cheerleader. : ( i feel certain she'll make a squad for next year but share her anxiety as she awaits tryouts. it's gonna be a battle this year for sure! i must say...i'm glad it's all over for now.
i've zero idea what to do for the kids' birthdays. sadly matt said he didn't want a party with friends. i think he's skeptical about "friends". he's never really felt like he's belonged or has been wanted by any one particular group. yet whenever we attend an event without him kids always come up to us asking about him and where he is. kate is somewhat similar. and i know this, if ever a kid wanted a good, true friend...they'd find one in her. same goes for matt for that matter. i've not really asked kate about a party. however she's not indicated she wanted one. when andy & i tried talking to the kids to see what they wanted they both struggled to come up with something. now this tells me a couple of things...1) there's nothing they truly desire 2) they're pretty content. so in talking to matt he decided he'd like to have a purity ring. he'd came to me later with a bible verse and asked to have that verse engraved on the ring. ...i am blessed and love that kid!
i've decided andy is the one deserving of the rewards and blessings and that i'm just fortunate enough to get to partake in them too. THANK YOU GOD FOR OUR BLESSINGS
we are at a time in our life when most parents are experiencing rebelling teens we seem to be experiencing the opposite. i don't know that there's any one thing we're doing right (or wrong) as we've never done this before. i do know that for my part in the rearing i'm just drawing on my own experiences and memories. my kids are not perfect and neither am i. and without a doubt my parenting style is different than most but it works for us. this i know and this i rely on. God is in control. He has a plan.
i pray daily that i'll do what is right. i'll say what needs said. correct what needs correcting.
so bring on march. for april follows and may is up next. may = end of school year! and the start of summer. ....exciting huh?
here's to more sunny days, a bit of madness, a bunch of birthdays, and a boat load of blessings.
february was gray to say the least and this day, the first of march is oh so sunny! what a blessing. sadly most all the snow has melted away leaving behind ....mud! ick. last night kate & the OH cheerleaders performed their cheer routine at the 1/2 time of the IWU girls game. they did a good job! and IWU won and advanced to the nationals. it will be the last time this year kate performs as a freshman cheerleader. : ( i feel certain she'll make a squad for next year but share her anxiety as she awaits tryouts. it's gonna be a battle this year for sure! i must say...i'm glad it's all over for now.
i've zero idea what to do for the kids' birthdays. sadly matt said he didn't want a party with friends. i think he's skeptical about "friends". he's never really felt like he's belonged or has been wanted by any one particular group. yet whenever we attend an event without him kids always come up to us asking about him and where he is. kate is somewhat similar. and i know this, if ever a kid wanted a good, true friend...they'd find one in her. same goes for matt for that matter. i've not really asked kate about a party. however she's not indicated she wanted one. when andy & i tried talking to the kids to see what they wanted they both struggled to come up with something. now this tells me a couple of things...1) there's nothing they truly desire 2) they're pretty content. so in talking to matt he decided he'd like to have a purity ring. he'd came to me later with a bible verse and asked to have that verse engraved on the ring. ...i am blessed and love that kid!
i've decided andy is the one deserving of the rewards and blessings and that i'm just fortunate enough to get to partake in them too. THANK YOU GOD FOR OUR BLESSINGS
we are at a time in our life when most parents are experiencing rebelling teens we seem to be experiencing the opposite. i don't know that there's any one thing we're doing right (or wrong) as we've never done this before. i do know that for my part in the rearing i'm just drawing on my own experiences and memories. my kids are not perfect and neither am i. and without a doubt my parenting style is different than most but it works for us. this i know and this i rely on. God is in control. He has a plan.
i pray daily that i'll do what is right. i'll say what needs said. correct what needs correcting.
so bring on march. for april follows and may is up next. may = end of school year! and the start of summer. ....exciting huh?
here's to more sunny days, a bit of madness, a bunch of birthdays, and a boat load of blessings.
Monday, February 28, 2011
While i'm on the subject...
we, as Christians want to grow the church. translation: grow the body/believers of Christ. now, i don't believe that just means numbers. i believe it also means to grow deeper. but i want to consider both.
when we talk about growing the body of Christ by numbers i think it's vital that we not overlook those who are in attendance on sunday mornings. weather you've walked through the doors for the 1st time or have returned....the key is you're there. what should be the obvious way to grow i feel is often overlooked by some. our children....our youth.
now, our church has a great childrens' ministry and for many adults it is one of the contributing factors for making mt. olive their home. what we, the church need to remember is that these children grow into teens, the youth! it is from here the "teenage" mind set that they will leave not only their homes but their home church and go out into the world. it is my opinion as a church we need to be highly aware of our actions and attitudes toward them as we send them off into the world. THEY are our future. THEY are the future of the church.
as we look toward the future, we need to be cognoscente as to how we're impacting them. not just how the youth pastor and volunteers are but how we as a congregation are doing.
but they're getting there.
I work with them...and I'm excited about their future, our future, and they're excited about the future of their church...at least they want to be.
we have so much going for us. new building finally off the blue print and coming to fruition before our eyes, preschool in full swing, VBS that's awesome year after year! but...we need to keep the momentum.
our youth have HADs (hopes & dreams) and believe it or not they have HADs for what is to be their new space. we as youth leaders have asked them about it and how they feel. have you? i've seen tears of joy & thanks roll down their cheeks at the mere size of the space allotted for them and their activities. i feel we'd be remiss as a church if we didn't tap into our former "teen" years AND have a conversation with them to see what vision they have for mt. olive.
making a space or designing a service comfortable for us is relatively easy. factoring in "what will interest the kiddos" ...well that can be tricky! trust me as the youth night services are constantly needed to be tweaked!
this i do know...right now those who attend our youth are in love with the Lord! the relationships run deep. interestingly many who attend DO NOT attend or call mt. olive their home. :( YET they do attend youth group and they're growing in faith and service! HOW AWESOME IS THAT!
i also am saddened when i look around at the congregation on sunday morning and see young kids who could attend youth but choose not too. i know i've personally invited them to join in. however it's their choice not to. ....why? hummm i don't have an answer ...but can only speculate. some i've talked to attend youth elsewhere simply because that's where "their friends go".
again, it's not always about numbers. we've had the numbers...they've been up and they've been down. it's about investing time, interest, energy. we have an awesome youth ministry program, led by a young man with a passion for igniting a spark that fuels the flame of Love for God. we have adult leaders who take time away from their own families to get to know and mentor these goofy kids.
i want to invite you to do the same. andy & i first became involved when our kids were babes. we did so by providing a meal every once in a while. as our children grew so did our involvement*. i challenge you to do the same.
get to know the youth....get to know the future of our church...i'm s ure they'll surprise you! for they are oh so on fire for the Lord. they'll rock out praise in their band! and they're sure to rock a worship like you've never seen....different? sure! AWESOME...yep! they're teens ...they do things a bit differently!
check it out!
* ask me sometime WHY i got involved! i'd love to share my story!
when we talk about growing the body of Christ by numbers i think it's vital that we not overlook those who are in attendance on sunday mornings. weather you've walked through the doors for the 1st time or have returned....the key is you're there. what should be the obvious way to grow i feel is often overlooked by some. our children....our youth.
now, our church has a great childrens' ministry and for many adults it is one of the contributing factors for making mt. olive their home. what we, the church need to remember is that these children grow into teens, the youth! it is from here the "teenage" mind set that they will leave not only their homes but their home church and go out into the world. it is my opinion as a church we need to be highly aware of our actions and attitudes toward them as we send them off into the world. THEY are our future. THEY are the future of the church.
as we look toward the future, we need to be cognoscente as to how we're impacting them. not just how the youth pastor and volunteers are but how we as a congregation are doing.
- do we know them?
- do we know what interest them?
- do we know anything about their relationship with the Lord?
- do we consider them in service?
- do we lift them up?
- do we get involved?
- do we allow them to be teens? foggy? confused? excited? weird?
but they're getting there.
I work with them...and I'm excited about their future, our future, and they're excited about the future of their church...at least they want to be.
we have so much going for us. new building finally off the blue print and coming to fruition before our eyes, preschool in full swing, VBS that's awesome year after year! but...we need to keep the momentum.
our youth have HADs (hopes & dreams) and believe it or not they have HADs for what is to be their new space. we as youth leaders have asked them about it and how they feel. have you? i've seen tears of joy & thanks roll down their cheeks at the mere size of the space allotted for them and their activities. i feel we'd be remiss as a church if we didn't tap into our former "teen" years AND have a conversation with them to see what vision they have for mt. olive.
making a space or designing a service comfortable for us is relatively easy. factoring in "what will interest the kiddos" ...well that can be tricky! trust me as the youth night services are constantly needed to be tweaked!
this i do know...right now those who attend our youth are in love with the Lord! the relationships run deep. interestingly many who attend DO NOT attend or call mt. olive their home. :( YET they do attend youth group and they're growing in faith and service! HOW AWESOME IS THAT!
i also am saddened when i look around at the congregation on sunday morning and see young kids who could attend youth but choose not too. i know i've personally invited them to join in. however it's their choice not to. ....why? hummm i don't have an answer ...but can only speculate. some i've talked to attend youth elsewhere simply because that's where "their friends go".
again, it's not always about numbers. we've had the numbers...they've been up and they've been down. it's about investing time, interest, energy. we have an awesome youth ministry program, led by a young man with a passion for igniting a spark that fuels the flame of Love for God. we have adult leaders who take time away from their own families to get to know and mentor these goofy kids.
i want to invite you to do the same. andy & i first became involved when our kids were babes. we did so by providing a meal every once in a while. as our children grew so did our involvement*. i challenge you to do the same.
get to know the youth....get to know the future of our church...i'm s ure they'll surprise you! for they are oh so on fire for the Lord. they'll rock out praise in their band! and they're sure to rock a worship like you've never seen....different? sure! AWESOME...yep! they're teens ...they do things a bit differently!
check it out!
* ask me sometime WHY i got involved! i'd love to share my story!
Sunday, February 27, 2011
something to be said about the word HOME
seek & you shall find...
so we sought and successfully found a place to call our HOME church. mt. olive umc. located not in our home town, not necessarily near or for that matter too far from anything and comprised of many people from many communities and from many walks of life.
we were looking for a place of worship. we were looking for friendly faces. we were looking for others who would also love us, our children. we were looking for some where to grow. we were looking for somewhere to take root. we found it.
we had some welcome us personally. there were some who invited us back. there were some it took quite a while to meet & get to know. and there are some who are only slightly familiar. there were personal invites to events. there is a great children's program, mission oppertunities, community involvement, meals hosted, camps, camping...etc.
we had a desire to grow in our faith. to grow deeper in love with our God. we had a desire to belong. we were hungry for Gods word and we sought it. we were fed.
however there were times we were not fed. times we were hungry and longing for more. we heard many times about the MORE elsewhere. and many friends/ "family" left in search of more and found it. i assume as they've yet to return. we on the other hand took the spoon by the hand and began to feed ourselves.
sometimes, in the beginning especially, it's necessary to be fed. but as we grow that need becomes one that can be taken on by ones self. (to an extent)
i think part of this relationship we have with God also has a lot to do with the relationship with have with the rest of His body...the Church. and in this instance, in your own church.
as with any relationship, the relationship with your church can be ever changing. new people, new pastors, new procedures, a change in service style, music style, different translations utilized in the message and ....perhaps a sermon received from the seat of a DIFFERENT PEW!(humor) change happens. as Christians we should know this and also know that GOD is in control.
i've not always been 100% happy with my church family or 100% satisfied with my church. i've at times found myself feeling as though i'd stalled. and then i shut up, pause, and listen and look at exactly where i am. physically and spiritually.
i am 100% about one thing...God planted me at mt. olive umc for a reason. He knows what it is. He has brought people into my life and the lives of my loved ones for a reason. i may not always feel "full" or "fed" after a sunday morning service but that does NOT mean i go hungry. i want more and more is available right within those walls. more is available outside those walls also but for me, nothing beats a "home cooked meal surrounded by family".
sometimes the meal comes in the form of a youth sunday school lesson, youth group, small group, bible study, praise & worship. sometimes it's served up in the conversation with a sister/brother over coffee & a doughnut. sometimes it's a side dish of service.
like i tell my kids sometimes...."if you were hungry, then why didn't you eat? we had all kinds of food in the kitchen! why did you wait for me to feed you?" i wonder how many times a pastor asks that question. "if you were hungry....why did you wait?" like my kids who become frustrated and all bent out of shape because they're hungry and want fed many Christians become the same way. and frankly early on in ones faith i get it...the NEED to be fed, but as a baby learns to feed their self we as Christians growing in our faith need to feed ourselves too. for some this has meant a change in location. for me this has meant a change in outlook.
i've been planted. i've taken root. i've found a home. we've found a home. it's ever changing. it's been better, it's been worse. it's been bigger and it's been smaller. faces have come and gone. but like home it's doors are always open. it has my interest at heart.
i love my church. i miss some family. i'm excited about all God has in store for us!
so we sought and successfully found a place to call our HOME church. mt. olive umc. located not in our home town, not necessarily near or for that matter too far from anything and comprised of many people from many communities and from many walks of life.
we were looking for a place of worship. we were looking for friendly faces. we were looking for others who would also love us, our children. we were looking for some where to grow. we were looking for somewhere to take root. we found it.
we had some welcome us personally. there were some who invited us back. there were some it took quite a while to meet & get to know. and there are some who are only slightly familiar. there were personal invites to events. there is a great children's program, mission oppertunities, community involvement, meals hosted, camps, camping...etc.
we had a desire to grow in our faith. to grow deeper in love with our God. we had a desire to belong. we were hungry for Gods word and we sought it. we were fed.
however there were times we were not fed. times we were hungry and longing for more. we heard many times about the MORE elsewhere. and many friends/ "family" left in search of more and found it. i assume as they've yet to return. we on the other hand took the spoon by the hand and began to feed ourselves.
sometimes, in the beginning especially, it's necessary to be fed. but as we grow that need becomes one that can be taken on by ones self. (to an extent)
i think part of this relationship we have with God also has a lot to do with the relationship with have with the rest of His body...the Church. and in this instance, in your own church.
as with any relationship, the relationship with your church can be ever changing. new people, new pastors, new procedures, a change in service style, music style, different translations utilized in the message and ....perhaps a sermon received from the seat of a DIFFERENT PEW!(humor) change happens. as Christians we should know this and also know that GOD is in control.
i've not always been 100% happy with my church family or 100% satisfied with my church. i've at times found myself feeling as though i'd stalled. and then i shut up, pause, and listen and look at exactly where i am. physically and spiritually.
i am 100% about one thing...God planted me at mt. olive umc for a reason. He knows what it is. He has brought people into my life and the lives of my loved ones for a reason. i may not always feel "full" or "fed" after a sunday morning service but that does NOT mean i go hungry. i want more and more is available right within those walls. more is available outside those walls also but for me, nothing beats a "home cooked meal surrounded by family".
sometimes the meal comes in the form of a youth sunday school lesson, youth group, small group, bible study, praise & worship. sometimes it's served up in the conversation with a sister/brother over coffee & a doughnut. sometimes it's a side dish of service.
like i tell my kids sometimes...."if you were hungry, then why didn't you eat? we had all kinds of food in the kitchen! why did you wait for me to feed you?" i wonder how many times a pastor asks that question. "if you were hungry....why did you wait?" like my kids who become frustrated and all bent out of shape because they're hungry and want fed many Christians become the same way. and frankly early on in ones faith i get it...the NEED to be fed, but as a baby learns to feed their self we as Christians growing in our faith need to feed ourselves too. for some this has meant a change in location. for me this has meant a change in outlook.
i've been planted. i've taken root. i've found a home. we've found a home. it's ever changing. it's been better, it's been worse. it's been bigger and it's been smaller. faces have come and gone. but like home it's doors are always open. it has my interest at heart.
i love my church. i miss some family. i'm excited about all God has in store for us!
Friday, February 25, 2011
random crap...it's how i roll
Oak Hill basketball boys won their share of the CIC last night with a victory over blackford. so happy for them. was stoked to see daimon play! he had an awesome game. not sure why he's not playing more but it's just one of many things that doesn't make sense to me. regardless great effort on his part, he certainly should be playing more. (imo)
this past week an old photo surfaced on my FB feed again. it was taken when i was in high school and was of MG's student section. i pointed out to my daughter how full the student section was! how attentive and into the game we appeared to be. it saddens me to see the lack of school spirit/pride these days. at last nights game there were very few students in attendance. those who were were mostly siblings of those of the floor. at one point when the cheerleaders were cheering I was THE ONLY one standing and cheering with them and for the team. i think that is sad. administrator and school personnel even remained seated. i will say with the final cheer, in the final moments when it was clear we would win people came to their feet. too bad they weren't there all along.
perhaps one of the questions we need to ask our selves is why no school pride?
on a sad note it's been quite a week at OHS...2 girls arriving drunk first thing in the morning and 2 boys stoned. all on the heels of another young man who had quite a scare and is now in rehab. hate that this kinda of thing happens, kids feel it necessary, and that it's available. praying endless for these kids and all for that matter.
let it be known...i'm not a fan of unions/associations. my take ...perhaps delusional but it's mine, is this...do your job to the best of your ability and you'll be properly compensated. end. of. story.
it snowed last night! and school is canceled today! looking forward to a quick trip to the library for some flicks and a day of movies with my girl. pretty sure the boy will be COD all day long.
so...enjoy! it's sunny...
this past week an old photo surfaced on my FB feed again. it was taken when i was in high school and was of MG's student section. i pointed out to my daughter how full the student section was! how attentive and into the game we appeared to be. it saddens me to see the lack of school spirit/pride these days. at last nights game there were very few students in attendance. those who were were mostly siblings of those of the floor. at one point when the cheerleaders were cheering I was THE ONLY one standing and cheering with them and for the team. i think that is sad. administrator and school personnel even remained seated. i will say with the final cheer, in the final moments when it was clear we would win people came to their feet. too bad they weren't there all along.
perhaps one of the questions we need to ask our selves is why no school pride?
on a sad note it's been quite a week at OHS...2 girls arriving drunk first thing in the morning and 2 boys stoned. all on the heels of another young man who had quite a scare and is now in rehab. hate that this kinda of thing happens, kids feel it necessary, and that it's available. praying endless for these kids and all for that matter.
let it be known...i'm not a fan of unions/associations. my take ...perhaps delusional but it's mine, is this...do your job to the best of your ability and you'll be properly compensated. end. of. story.
it snowed last night! and school is canceled today! looking forward to a quick trip to the library for some flicks and a day of movies with my girl. pretty sure the boy will be COD all day long.
so...enjoy! it's sunny...
Thursday, February 17, 2011
holy cow it's been forever!
wow what a winter & what a start to a new year! Snow Snow & more snow & I've loved it. Although i think my love for it has disgusted all 1600 + facebook friends! Regardless I still love it and am excited at the prospect of more coming yet this winter! Yes, despite the 65 degree weather we're having now it is still winter...until 3/20!
I can feel a change in the air. Or at the very least a change in me. I don't quite know how to explain it other than I seem to be experiencing more of a sense of calm. I like it. :)
Life has had a few twists and I'm enjoying them. I'm enjoying new friendships, new perspectives, all which i'll attribute to perhaps a new outlook.
On the down side I've been saddened a bit by the meanness of people. That is a frustration I'm trying my best to keep in check. It's tough though when mean people affect people you care about and the ones you love. To date I've not been a direct target or directly involved... I've began praying for the mean cheer moms and their mean daughters and praying for my dealing with what info or situation comes my way. Praying for a change and for meanness to NOT be rewarded in the coming months. Sadly it has cost my daughter a coach. I fear it will cost her both before it's all said & done. This I know ....God has a plan! and the right people will be put in place.
School is going well for the kids....well, it's going anyway. I think we're all ready to be done with the year and just enjoy time together again.
I'm by far the perfect parent...but I've got to be doing something right. With children soon to turn 15, & 13 oddly enough they still enjoy hanging with mom & dad! What a blessing! And we enjoy them! They fun, smart, perceptive, imaginative and all around a joy to be with.
Have I mentioned I've been blessed beyond measure?
My love list is long....and sadly so is my prayer list....
<3andy our kids my parents my brother nieces & nephews greats too! inlaws aunts uncles friends and cousins far and near...(many are missed deeply) facebook (for it get to stay somewhat in touch) jobs church Jesus!
prayers...for all mentioned above, morgan, john, my kids, powell boys, doretta, customers w/ health issues, difficult moms & difficult daughters & for me...
well...thta's about it from me for now. i'm feeling oh so blessed and loved and just different...good different. a new year, a new me i guess. hopefully a better me. hopefully a me that's pleasing to my Savior.
happy day! enjoy the sun all!
I can feel a change in the air. Or at the very least a change in me. I don't quite know how to explain it other than I seem to be experiencing more of a sense of calm. I like it. :)
Life has had a few twists and I'm enjoying them. I'm enjoying new friendships, new perspectives, all which i'll attribute to perhaps a new outlook.
On the down side I've been saddened a bit by the meanness of people. That is a frustration I'm trying my best to keep in check. It's tough though when mean people affect people you care about and the ones you love. To date I've not been a direct target or directly involved... I've began praying for the mean cheer moms and their mean daughters and praying for my dealing with what info or situation comes my way. Praying for a change and for meanness to NOT be rewarded in the coming months. Sadly it has cost my daughter a coach. I fear it will cost her both before it's all said & done. This I know ....God has a plan! and the right people will be put in place.
School is going well for the kids....well, it's going anyway. I think we're all ready to be done with the year and just enjoy time together again.
I'm by far the perfect parent...but I've got to be doing something right. With children soon to turn 15, & 13 oddly enough they still enjoy hanging with mom & dad! What a blessing! And we enjoy them! They fun, smart, perceptive, imaginative and all around a joy to be with.
Have I mentioned I've been blessed beyond measure?
My love list is long....and sadly so is my prayer list....
<3andy our kids my parents my brother nieces & nephews greats too! inlaws aunts uncles friends and cousins far and near...(many are missed deeply) facebook (for it get to stay somewhat in touch) jobs church Jesus!
prayers...for all mentioned above, morgan, john, my kids, powell boys, doretta, customers w/ health issues, difficult moms & difficult daughters & for me...
well...thta's about it from me for now. i'm feeling oh so blessed and loved and just different...good different. a new year, a new me i guess. hopefully a better me. hopefully a me that's pleasing to my Savior.
happy day! enjoy the sun all!
Friday, January 21, 2011
just go...
so, this theme has popped up often recently "i can't ____________ because i don't care for __________" i have even been guilty of this myself. i've not done something, gone somewhere i would've like to just because i didn't care for for someone else who would be attending. why? i really wanted to go. odds are i would've attended with another friend. so, why would i allow my differences to keep me from going somewhere.
recently i've heard this from other adults and my own children. and as i mentioned i too have been guilty of it. sadly i'm finding as my circle of friends is growing so are the obstacles. with new friends comes history...their history & mine which isn't necessary to be laid out in our first meeting...and sometimes the past just doesn't come up because it's the past. and...sometimes it does come up. sometimes our past and the differences/grudges we hold onto really get in the way of our present and future. we allow them to become road blocks, obstacles, limiting our own potential for fun, friendships, and experiences.
that's a lot of power given to such a negative in our lives. so, i'm taking it all back. regardless of the past, the conflict, the negative impression, if i want to go, do and i'm not so fond of the attendees....well, odds are the feeling is mutual so i guess, sorry for your luck, the potential uncomfortableness someone may feel. but i'm gonna do, go where i want to. i'm gonna enjoy my friends and those relationships. i hope you do too! enjoy, take control, let bygones go, and enjoy!
recently i've heard this from other adults and my own children. and as i mentioned i too have been guilty of it. sadly i'm finding as my circle of friends is growing so are the obstacles. with new friends comes history...their history & mine which isn't necessary to be laid out in our first meeting...and sometimes the past just doesn't come up because it's the past. and...sometimes it does come up. sometimes our past and the differences/grudges we hold onto really get in the way of our present and future. we allow them to become road blocks, obstacles, limiting our own potential for fun, friendships, and experiences.
that's a lot of power given to such a negative in our lives. so, i'm taking it all back. regardless of the past, the conflict, the negative impression, if i want to go, do and i'm not so fond of the attendees....well, odds are the feeling is mutual so i guess, sorry for your luck, the potential uncomfortableness someone may feel. but i'm gonna do, go where i want to. i'm gonna enjoy my friends and those relationships. i hope you do too! enjoy, take control, let bygones go, and enjoy!
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
so i've been thinking (haha!) with all the political correctness, and biting of the tongue that takes place, I have to wonder if perhaps this could be a contributing factor to some form of mental illness.
Hang with me on this.
Believe it or not, I filter. (be glad) However because of my "filter" I seem to be experiencing "conversations" in my head. They're are many and at times, after further review, I share a few. Typically my close friends are privy to my inner thoughts. My husband certainly gets his ear full. And good or bad my children are also on the receiving end of many. I'm not sure exactly how others feel about being privy to my inner thoughts but I'm quite entertained.
So, with that said...I have to wonder if perhaps the best bet is to just let it out. Let it all out so that it doesn't get jumbled up in your head causing you to mumble aimlessly to yourself causing others to think you're a loon thus landing you in a padded room. ( i've had visions of a padded room in my future! lol)
I don't know if it's possible this could be a cause of mental illness or if it could result in padded surroundings but I do know I'll probably continue to share...too much at times, blog...too much at times. If for no other reason than ...it's gets too crowded in my head.
that's all for now...just a little something i've been mulling over.
Hang with me on this.
Believe it or not, I filter. (be glad) However because of my "filter" I seem to be experiencing "conversations" in my head. They're are many and at times, after further review, I share a few. Typically my close friends are privy to my inner thoughts. My husband certainly gets his ear full. And good or bad my children are also on the receiving end of many. I'm not sure exactly how others feel about being privy to my inner thoughts but I'm quite entertained.
So, with that said...I have to wonder if perhaps the best bet is to just let it out. Let it all out so that it doesn't get jumbled up in your head causing you to mumble aimlessly to yourself causing others to think you're a loon thus landing you in a padded room. ( i've had visions of a padded room in my future! lol)
I don't know if it's possible this could be a cause of mental illness or if it could result in padded surroundings but I do know I'll probably continue to share...too much at times, blog...too much at times. If for no other reason than ...it's gets too crowded in my head.
that's all for now...just a little something i've been mulling over.
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Sunday, January 2, 2011
communion...oops! take 2!
well...got to church just a bit delayed this morn. missed all the singing but got the 'meat & taters' part of the message and was able to par take in communion. yay! however, what's the proper protocol for dropping your communion bread in the challis of juice? cause yep that's what i did! lol my face must've been priceless because even pastor bob got tickled and kindly suggested i take another piece. almost kept it together....until i turned to return to my seat and saw other families giggling at my fop-ah! ...yep, you guessed it, i lost it!
i'm so in need of grace!
i'm so in need of grace!
say it isn't so
Saturday, January 1, 2011
2011 Welcome
NYE spent with the Powells, Nevers, Crauns, Farleys, Middlesworths. Dinner in Kokomo at the Half Moon brewery followed by some of us (powells, nevers & cruns) gathering at the Crauns house for some apples to apples. Fun. I got my first kiss from my favorite guy! and thoroughly enjoyed the evening. The day was warm and turned chilly and rainy as the night went on.
Kathryn celebrated with Kelsey Owings, Regan Holthouse and Regan Brankle and Matt was with Nick Smith & Andrew Tuttle. I gathered up my youngn's at noon today. Glad to all be back together again...kinda. Matt retreated to his room, Kate crashed and Andy & I made a quick run to Kokomo to spend our Khols cash, make returns, and grab a pizza & get back home before it was time for the Rose Bowl. Sadly the big 10 isn't doing so well this year in their respective bowl games.
We dined on cabbage, smoked sausage & carrots for lunch and pizza for supper! Hoping that cabbage will bring about the ever sought "good luck". Now for the record I'm not a big believer of luck (God has the plan) but I can't remember a time I didn't have it for the new year and at 44 why do away with tradition?
No resolutions for me this year. Or last for that matter. There are things I hope will get accomplished. Like last year I'm really hoping we'll get our Swayzee house D.O.N.E. I long to have friends and family over. I want more than anything for my kids to have their friends over. So, I vow to quit being a bum, and do all that I can daily toward that process! Perhaps my doing will inspire 1 or 3 of the other folks I live with. There's so much 'pre' stuff to do it just all seems so overwhelming. Prayer...perhaps I'll rely on that to keep me going on this project.
Seems unbelievable that this year my daughter turns 15 & son 13! How did that happen so quickly. I get excited when I think of all the possibilities and experiences that lie ahead for them. Not to mention I feel so fortunate they are where they are emotionally, mentally, spiritually, etc... If only I would've had that sort of focus & drive!
I've no idea what this year will hold. I always get a little nervous and excited with each new year. I do hope for all the basics, good health, happiness, etc.... But really just want more of the same...family time, time with friends, laughter, and a whole lot of memory making.
So, here's to a good year and making more memories to reflect upon. Here's to 2011. Before you know it, it too will be just a memory.
Kathryn celebrated with Kelsey Owings, Regan Holthouse and Regan Brankle and Matt was with Nick Smith & Andrew Tuttle. I gathered up my youngn's at noon today. Glad to all be back together again...kinda. Matt retreated to his room, Kate crashed and Andy & I made a quick run to Kokomo to spend our Khols cash, make returns, and grab a pizza & get back home before it was time for the Rose Bowl. Sadly the big 10 isn't doing so well this year in their respective bowl games.
We dined on cabbage, smoked sausage & carrots for lunch and pizza for supper! Hoping that cabbage will bring about the ever sought "good luck". Now for the record I'm not a big believer of luck (God has the plan) but I can't remember a time I didn't have it for the new year and at 44 why do away with tradition?
No resolutions for me this year. Or last for that matter. There are things I hope will get accomplished. Like last year I'm really hoping we'll get our Swayzee house D.O.N.E. I long to have friends and family over. I want more than anything for my kids to have their friends over. So, I vow to quit being a bum, and do all that I can daily toward that process! Perhaps my doing will inspire 1 or 3 of the other folks I live with. There's so much 'pre' stuff to do it just all seems so overwhelming. Prayer...perhaps I'll rely on that to keep me going on this project.
Seems unbelievable that this year my daughter turns 15 & son 13! How did that happen so quickly. I get excited when I think of all the possibilities and experiences that lie ahead for them. Not to mention I feel so fortunate they are where they are emotionally, mentally, spiritually, etc... If only I would've had that sort of focus & drive!
I've no idea what this year will hold. I always get a little nervous and excited with each new year. I do hope for all the basics, good health, happiness, etc.... But really just want more of the same...family time, time with friends, laughter, and a whole lot of memory making.
So, here's to a good year and making more memories to reflect upon. Here's to 2011. Before you know it, it too will be just a memory.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
weekend wrap up last of 2010
Well, Christmas Eve was spent with the Van Ness' family. Our arrival there was a little later this year as we attended their Christmas Eve service. The usual cheese ball, veggie tray & shrimp cocktail kicked off the evening. Next was the gift exchange and then off to services. It was a beautiful sight as we walked out of the church afterward...the biggest snow flakes ever were gently falling from the sky! My son twirled about as he caught the flakes on his nose, tongue and eye lashes. I love when the "little" kid in him shows up! The falling snow was short lived as it diminished as we drove back home. After church we continued the meal with oyster soup and tomato soup (yum), and gathered together to watch a bit of The Christmas story. Such a nice evening.
Christmas morn brought about the usual ....early wake up call! Matt played "Santa" and distributed the gifts. A sign they're growing up...we each took turns opening and reveled in what each received. Here we are 4 days out and they are both saying it's been "the best Christmas ever!" Something I've observed this year is the gratitude in their words, actions, hearts. As a mom that just add to the joy of it all. I was given a beautiful necklace from my son. He asked his dad to take him to Moser Jewelers so he could buy for Kathryn & I. His selections were perfect. That kid amazes me...daily. What a joy!
Christmas afternoon was spent at my moms. And low & behold all were in attendance. Again a great evening...better than expected. We enjoyed good food, conversation, and little ones. Ike has a fascination with "Mac" aka Matt and I enjoyed had to get lap time with Ella singing Deck the Halls. She chimed in with the "fa la la la la's". So sweet. That's the good stuff!
Sunday had me home bound in the am. I was spent. Later in the day Kate & I took a road trip to Muncie to get a shirt and few items for EJ, The boys all gathered at the Van Ness' to watch football.
Monday = more family time. Back to the Van Ness' to have time with John, Mandy & kids! I didn't mention before but Mark was home over Christmas. It's been 2 years since he's been here so much time has been spent with him. It's always good to see John & his family. Such a fun group.
I made it to the Dr. (finally). Ugh....many prescriptions later... I'm sure i'll be on the mend in no time. Sinus infection, ear infection, chest congestion, mouth full of canker sores...(brought out from all the infection), and a cough that is NOT productive. Per Dr's orders I'm not to go 2 months suffering anymore! lol. OK!
Today - Tuesday, I'm feeling better not great but better. Sure to be back to normal soon. We're soon to be off to the Grant 4 basketball tournament. Matt is with a friend today, so needless to say I'm missing him. But he is having a blast I'm sure.
I do love this time of year. Even all the hectic craziness that comes with it. Christmas is certainly something worth keeping in your hear all year long!
Looking forward to 2011.
Blessed!
Christmas morn brought about the usual ....early wake up call! Matt played "Santa" and distributed the gifts. A sign they're growing up...we each took turns opening and reveled in what each received. Here we are 4 days out and they are both saying it's been "the best Christmas ever!" Something I've observed this year is the gratitude in their words, actions, hearts. As a mom that just add to the joy of it all. I was given a beautiful necklace from my son. He asked his dad to take him to Moser Jewelers so he could buy for Kathryn & I. His selections were perfect. That kid amazes me...daily. What a joy!
Christmas afternoon was spent at my moms. And low & behold all were in attendance. Again a great evening...better than expected. We enjoyed good food, conversation, and little ones. Ike has a fascination with "Mac" aka Matt and I enjoyed had to get lap time with Ella singing Deck the Halls. She chimed in with the "fa la la la la's". So sweet. That's the good stuff!
Sunday had me home bound in the am. I was spent. Later in the day Kate & I took a road trip to Muncie to get a shirt and few items for EJ, The boys all gathered at the Van Ness' to watch football.
Monday = more family time. Back to the Van Ness' to have time with John, Mandy & kids! I didn't mention before but Mark was home over Christmas. It's been 2 years since he's been here so much time has been spent with him. It's always good to see John & his family. Such a fun group.
I made it to the Dr. (finally). Ugh....many prescriptions later... I'm sure i'll be on the mend in no time. Sinus infection, ear infection, chest congestion, mouth full of canker sores...(brought out from all the infection), and a cough that is NOT productive. Per Dr's orders I'm not to go 2 months suffering anymore! lol. OK!
Today - Tuesday, I'm feeling better not great but better. Sure to be back to normal soon. We're soon to be off to the Grant 4 basketball tournament. Matt is with a friend today, so needless to say I'm missing him. But he is having a blast I'm sure.
I do love this time of year. Even all the hectic craziness that comes with it. Christmas is certainly something worth keeping in your hear all year long!
Looking forward to 2011.
Blessed!
Friday, December 24, 2010
whatta week! everyone is HOME! & I love it. thus the lack of blogging & facebooking on my part. an early gift to me! monday we headed to w. lafayette to see the purdue girl play and get another win! the drive over was beautiful! snow was falling and it was a gorgeous snow at that. 4" total accumulation. after the game we dined at arnies! (yum). andy had made reservations for us to spend the night in lafayette such a nice get-a-way and timing was perfect. sadly, matt didn't want to go along. he's "tired of going places" so he hung with his favorite people, grandpa & grandma van ness. tuesday brought about shopping, lunch at hooters (we flipped for options) and an oak hill basketball game v. marion. (lost by 6...great effort on our boys part)
wednesday, wasn't a day i was looking forward to. it was long. started and ended well and the middle was completed.
thursday was my day for doing up treats in the kitchen. chex mix, hot cocoa mix, cracker snack, peanut butter fudge, blossoms, sugar cookies & toffee bark were all made and distributed. i look forward to the day when my kitchen is new and spacious and then perhaps i'll up the occurrence of making good stuff.
today, friday is Christmas eve. it's one of my favorite days of the year. it's a day filled with tradition and i do enjoy that! i've a few treats i'd still like to make, a few last minute presents to wrap and then we're off to the van ness' for our traditional Christmas eve. food: oyster soup, shrimp cocktail, cheese ball & crackers, ham, tomato soup, blossoms, & veggies. lighting of the advent candles, reading of scripture, retelling of the Christmas eve when 7 bowls of soup was consumed. (lol) and my favorite, time together. this year mark will be home with us. it's been 2 years since we've seen him. glad he could make it. and i almost forgot, Christmas eve service.
i can't help but feel overly blessed when i think about all that has been given to me, freely given to me. a Savior, my husband, my children, friends, home, pets, etc, etc, etc.... i'm flawed beyond measure yet daily i'm reminded how much i am loved, in spite of all the ick.
i'm thankful that this year i've learned (stage 2) how to slow down a bit and enjoy. how to better keep focus on what really matters. i'm thankful for the blog option to emote, vent, spew, whatever. and i'm really thankful for all the people in my life. so many have come into it over the course of the year and each as been such a blessing. some have gone from my life but their time in it remains with the memories and i'm sure it's purpose was served.
well, that's it for me today. i'm off to get a move on. Merry Christmas to all...and to all a good night!
wednesday, wasn't a day i was looking forward to. it was long. started and ended well and the middle was completed.
thursday was my day for doing up treats in the kitchen. chex mix, hot cocoa mix, cracker snack, peanut butter fudge, blossoms, sugar cookies & toffee bark were all made and distributed. i look forward to the day when my kitchen is new and spacious and then perhaps i'll up the occurrence of making good stuff.
today, friday is Christmas eve. it's one of my favorite days of the year. it's a day filled with tradition and i do enjoy that! i've a few treats i'd still like to make, a few last minute presents to wrap and then we're off to the van ness' for our traditional Christmas eve. food: oyster soup, shrimp cocktail, cheese ball & crackers, ham, tomato soup, blossoms, & veggies. lighting of the advent candles, reading of scripture, retelling of the Christmas eve when 7 bowls of soup was consumed. (lol) and my favorite, time together. this year mark will be home with us. it's been 2 years since we've seen him. glad he could make it. and i almost forgot, Christmas eve service.
i can't help but feel overly blessed when i think about all that has been given to me, freely given to me. a Savior, my husband, my children, friends, home, pets, etc, etc, etc.... i'm flawed beyond measure yet daily i'm reminded how much i am loved, in spite of all the ick.
i'm thankful that this year i've learned (stage 2) how to slow down a bit and enjoy. how to better keep focus on what really matters. i'm thankful for the blog option to emote, vent, spew, whatever. and i'm really thankful for all the people in my life. so many have come into it over the course of the year and each as been such a blessing. some have gone from my life but their time in it remains with the memories and i'm sure it's purpose was served.
well, that's it for me today. i'm off to get a move on. Merry Christmas to all...and to all a good night!
Friday, December 17, 2010
Sadly tis the season for B$tchen...
Same old song and dance... sang by aerosmith & my momma!
Let me start by saying I love this time of year. I love fall/winter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, NYE and having the kids home from school. I love the foods that get prepared THIS time of year. I love the music, the gatherings, the time together. I love that the celebration of Christmas causes some to wonder about, seek out, focus on the meaning of this season. I love giving gifts.
I don't love the inevitable conversation that takes place...EVERY YEAR...about: having a feeling this is gonna be the last Christmas, not having a man - therefore her traditions get shoved aside for those of others, getting the short end of the stick with regard to time spent with her Christmas day, being the ONLY one who has to alter plans...UGH!!!
MAN has chosen the 25th of December to celebrate the birth of the Christ child. It's a day. The focus of that day should be on the gift of the Christ Child. The day is often, as it should be, celebrated with family and friends. CELEBRATED, yet many families like mine, find themselves frustrated by the occurrences, nonoccurence's of the day.
I just don't understand the need for all the frustration!
As for me and my family we will do what we can. Be where we want and can be and celebrate Jesus and family...those near and dear, those across the miles, and those who are no longer with us. I'll do all I can to keep their focus of the true gift, to create memories worth sharing and hopefully lite in them a desire to carry on some of the traditions we experience and encourage them to be open to new traditions.
In the mean time, I'll be talking a lot to my God in heaven above, and myself as I try to reel in all the frustrations I've allowed others to provoke! And pray to God that I can maintain the true spirit of Christmas within my heart all year long!
Let me start by saying I love this time of year. I love fall/winter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, NYE and having the kids home from school. I love the foods that get prepared THIS time of year. I love the music, the gatherings, the time together. I love that the celebration of Christmas causes some to wonder about, seek out, focus on the meaning of this season. I love giving gifts.
I don't love the inevitable conversation that takes place...EVERY YEAR...about: having a feeling this is gonna be the last Christmas, not having a man - therefore her traditions get shoved aside for those of others, getting the short end of the stick with regard to time spent with her Christmas day, being the ONLY one who has to alter plans...UGH!!!
MAN has chosen the 25th of December to celebrate the birth of the Christ child. It's a day. The focus of that day should be on the gift of the Christ Child. The day is often, as it should be, celebrated with family and friends. CELEBRATED, yet many families like mine, find themselves frustrated by the occurrences, nonoccurence's of the day.
I just don't understand the need for all the frustration!
As for me and my family we will do what we can. Be where we want and can be and celebrate Jesus and family...those near and dear, those across the miles, and those who are no longer with us. I'll do all I can to keep their focus of the true gift, to create memories worth sharing and hopefully lite in them a desire to carry on some of the traditions we experience and encourage them to be open to new traditions.
In the mean time, I'll be talking a lot to my God in heaven above, and myself as I try to reel in all the frustrations I've allowed others to provoke! And pray to God that I can maintain the true spirit of Christmas within my heart all year long!
Monday, December 13, 2010
just a disappointment
for a week forecasters have been alerting us of a winter storm. initial snow totals were to be 6-10 inches. as the weekend drew nearer the arrival of the storm was pushed back and the snow totals were lessened. ...with measly snow falling from the sky the kids were gifted a 2 hour delay and well, I can still grass poking through. Epic fail in the winter storm category! saddened am I.
Today is sure to be busy...i'm assisting with the cheer clinic, kat has an orchestra concert, and matt has a bb game at peru. good news is andy is home this week so we will have to divide and conquer.
returning to my love of snow, you must know that 1978 spoiled me. i've such fond memories of the blizzard of '78 and have had a love love love of the white stuff ever since.
tis the season for crazy busy stuff...but it's a season i love and am blessed to celebrate.
Today is sure to be busy...i'm assisting with the cheer clinic, kat has an orchestra concert, and matt has a bb game at peru. good news is andy is home this week so we will have to divide and conquer.
returning to my love of snow, you must know that 1978 spoiled me. i've such fond memories of the blizzard of '78 and have had a love love love of the white stuff ever since.
tis the season for crazy busy stuff...but it's a season i love and am blessed to celebrate.
