I went to the dentist this morning. I got my teeth cleaned and x-rays taken and a check up. The cleaning was awful! Between the sharp pointy torture device scraping my gums and making that horrific noise (like fingernails on a chalkboard *shiver*), I'm happy to be out of there!
I still have lots of work to be done. A filling fell out of a cavity and needs to be replaced. Doc thinks there's an abscess under one of my teeth *shiver*. I suppose I shouldn't have taken 3 years off of dental care. Drat!
But besides the cleaning, no work was done. I go back in about 3 weeks to get started on the work.
They are a good dental place. Our insurance is great. One day I'll be able to smile big again.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Anger
I (mistakenly) watched a clip of "The View" showing Rosie and Elizabeth arguing.
I have a tendency to feel the emotions of those around me and watching this made the anger rise and boil.
For those of you who do not know me, I am a conservative Christian. I don't follow politics completely, in fact, most of it jumbles my mind and makes me feel stupid. Even more so when I try to figure things out. When I do that I get angry because I think the whole system is messed up. So I stick to what I do best - praying that God's will be done in our country.
Anywho, people who don't "believe in this war" are spewing (yes, I know that's a harsh word) that we need to get out. Well, I heard someone say that we can't just pull our troops out. If we do, we are looking at another Vietnam where justice WON'T occur in the land. From what I've heard, the civilians over there are happy we are there.
Anyway, my point in all this is that no matter what you feel about President Bush, he's our president. Pray. Trust that God hears our prayers and that God loves our country. Trust that God has our best interests in mind. I think that if we pray that the Lord give our president wisdom and discernment, He will. But even more importantly, I feel that it is important that we pray for our next president. I am not happy about who is currently in the headlines these days - on both sides. So I just keep praying that God's will be done and that His kingdom come. There ARE more important things. It's important that the gospel is spread. It is important that our brothers and sisters are encouraged.
Well, I'm watching the season finale of Lost and my thoughts are a bit scattered.
More on this (maybe) later.
I have a tendency to feel the emotions of those around me and watching this made the anger rise and boil.
For those of you who do not know me, I am a conservative Christian. I don't follow politics completely, in fact, most of it jumbles my mind and makes me feel stupid. Even more so when I try to figure things out. When I do that I get angry because I think the whole system is messed up. So I stick to what I do best - praying that God's will be done in our country.
Anywho, people who don't "believe in this war" are spewing (yes, I know that's a harsh word) that we need to get out. Well, I heard someone say that we can't just pull our troops out. If we do, we are looking at another Vietnam where justice WON'T occur in the land. From what I've heard, the civilians over there are happy we are there.
Anyway, my point in all this is that no matter what you feel about President Bush, he's our president. Pray. Trust that God hears our prayers and that God loves our country. Trust that God has our best interests in mind. I think that if we pray that the Lord give our president wisdom and discernment, He will. But even more importantly, I feel that it is important that we pray for our next president. I am not happy about who is currently in the headlines these days - on both sides. So I just keep praying that God's will be done and that His kingdom come. There ARE more important things. It's important that the gospel is spread. It is important that our brothers and sisters are encouraged.
Well, I'm watching the season finale of Lost and my thoughts are a bit scattered.
More on this (maybe) later.
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
My brother and my sister-in-law
Originally posted May 22, 2007
I just finished watching a video on youtube that was a tribute to firefighters. My brother, 4 years younger than I, is currently in training at the fire fighter's academy. I'm very proud of him. After watching the video and being reminded of how dangerous that job is, I'm very proud of my sister-in-law as well.
Click here for the link.
But, that's not all. They also have a daughter with Down Syndrome. Now, Kallie is just about the sweetest little girl you will ever meet. But I can only imagine how difficult things must be with the medical aspects and having to deal with an ignorant, uncaring culture that would rather make fun of people like my niece than to take the time and actually shed one ounce of caring.
My sister-in-law posted an essay that was written by a girl whose sister has Down Syndrome. You see, my brother and sister-in-law have another daughter who is younger than Kallie. She will have to suffer sometimes because of the ignorance that abounds in this society.
Here is the essay:
FAMILY | Like sticks and stones, words can hurt Retarded by association: When you make fun of my sister, it hurts me
My sister, who has Down syndrome, has a gift for shrugging off your taunts, but I'm not so lucky. By MEGAN McVAY TeenStar
When Caroline McVay left a class wearing a red hat that wasn't hers, her sister Megan tried to find out why.
I'd sworn to myself I'd never let somebody hurt her in my company. But I had never calculated that I'd get hurt more than she ever would.
Nothing's funnier than someone with Down syndrome. Really. Have you ever seen EBaums World, where it's nothing but a two-minute reel of faces of people with Down syndrome? Hilarious.
I'm sure you know what I'm talking about. I know you're just like me you see a kid smiling dimly with those almond-shaped eyes and flat face and you laugh. Just like everyone else.
You do it because you think it's funny, because it's not normal, because it's not you, because you're so obviously above that mental stage. No one would think to call you a the r-word, because you're so obviously above that mental stage. You aren't the one who deserves it. They do. It's a commonly known fact, don't you see? Are you retarded?
Maybe I am. You decide.
My little sister, Caroline, was diagnosed with Robertsonian translocation at birth, a common strain of Down syndrome. She has a disability, one that leaves her just low-functioning enough to be ridiculed but just high-functioning enough to know it. She won the genetic lottery, the one that happens in a split second, months before a baby is introduced to a world that already hates her.
To water it down to teenager-friendly words, she's retarded.
But because we have the same mother, am I retarded, too?
Scientists say no. Discrimination laws say no. My indignant moral compass says no.
My high peers, however, sometimes say yes. And when that happens, being a the r-word stops being funny.
I remember the first time I became retarded by association. I was picking my little sister up from youth theater class.
Caroline looked up at me and smiled. She does that a lot. Her face scrunches up in a comical lopsided grin big enough to warm any heart. She's 11 now, a big sixth-grader who says she can do everything by herself.
She's constantly worrying about her wardrobe, hair and friends, typical of any middle school girl. To me, the only difference between Caroline and other girls her age is that she cares a little bit more about other people than she does herself. That and she's constantly smiling.
But that day something was amiss. The red hat. She didn't have a red hat when we got into the car for dance class & she has one now.
Caroline? Caroline. Look at me. Whose hat is that?
Mine.
No, sweetheart. You didn't bring a red hat to dance. Where'd you find it?
Well somebody gave it to me. It's mine.
There is no need to finish this conversation. I gently turn Caroline around and tap her to get her moving. We're walking back into the building to find (and apologize to) the owner of the mysterious red hat.
We don't walk far. Caroline marches emphatically up to a tall (read: attractive) teenage boy with slightly mussed hair, as if a hat had once graced his head. Blushing slightly, I sauntered up to him and his equally good-looking friends.
Hey, sorry to bother you? This, uh, isn't your hat is it?
Yeah, he laughed, but don't worry. I don't want it back.
Oh. Uh. OK.
Yeah, didn't you hear? It's supposed to be National the r-word Day.
My blushing came back. But not the good kind.
Excuse me? My little sister and I have to leave, but we can't do that with your hat on her head.
At this point, he started blushing a little bit, too.
Glancing at his buddies, he stammered, Oh, well, wouldn't want to do that. You'll, uh, probably both be late for your life skills class. I bet you're counting change today. Ha. Ha.
I wish I could say I slugged him. Or that I had some fantastic comeback that left him speechless. Instead, I smiled tartly, grabbed Caroline's arm and headed for the car.
While still in sight of the now seemingly young, immature, hateful little boys, I yanked the red hat off Caroline's head and slammed it forcefully into a nearby trash can. I wouldn't remember tearing off my headband to give to a devastated Caroline, who had genuinely wanted that despicable red hat. I wouldn't remember her giggling as she toyed with it in the backseat, arranging it in different ways on her head.
What I would remember was quietly shutting off my car, letting us inside the house and walking calmly up to my room. I would remember locking my door, picking up a miniature glass horse figurine and, with precision, shattering it against my wall.
It was the first time I had been called retarded.
It wasn't the first time somebody had made fun of Caroline to my face. But it was the first time something bad had happened to me as a result of protecting my baby sister. That first time is always a shock.
Naturally, I had come to my own terms with the fact that I'd hear people say some pretty awful things to or about Caroline. Of course I had anticipated that people wouldn't understand. They'd be mean. They'd hurt her.
I'd sworn to myself I'd never let somebody hurt her in my company. But I had never calculated that I'd get hurt more than she ever would.
It never ceases to amaze me that of all the hurtful things people say to or about one another, many are directed toward those who are developmentally disabled.
My little sister has had some heart-wrenching (and unprintable) things said to her, and it has yet to faze her. Whereas I break down at the hint of rejection, Caroline seems to have the ability to redefine it.
Of course, I'll hear the word 'the r-word' in a derogatory sense for the rest of my life. People will continue to use the word to hurt or tear down someone they know.
But that's all right. Call me crazy, but there are times that the word, in all its low and hurtful glory, reminds me that I, too, am capable of more than simply succumbing to the labels life hands us.
Reach Megan McVay, a junior at Blue Valley North, at teenstar@ kcstar.com. She originally wrote this essay for a class.
Todd and Christina, Kallie and Brittany, I love you guys. May the Lord continue to bless you and protect you as you continue to touch other's lives. (((hugs)))
I just finished watching a video on youtube that was a tribute to firefighters. My brother, 4 years younger than I, is currently in training at the fire fighter's academy. I'm very proud of him. After watching the video and being reminded of how dangerous that job is, I'm very proud of my sister-in-law as well.
Click here for the link.
But, that's not all. They also have a daughter with Down Syndrome. Now, Kallie is just about the sweetest little girl you will ever meet. But I can only imagine how difficult things must be with the medical aspects and having to deal with an ignorant, uncaring culture that would rather make fun of people like my niece than to take the time and actually shed one ounce of caring.
My sister-in-law posted an essay that was written by a girl whose sister has Down Syndrome. You see, my brother and sister-in-law have another daughter who is younger than Kallie. She will have to suffer sometimes because of the ignorance that abounds in this society.
Here is the essay:
FAMILY | Like sticks and stones, words can hurt Retarded by association: When you make fun of my sister, it hurts me
My sister, who has Down syndrome, has a gift for shrugging off your taunts, but I'm not so lucky. By MEGAN McVAY TeenStar
When Caroline McVay left a class wearing a red hat that wasn't hers, her sister Megan tried to find out why.
I'd sworn to myself I'd never let somebody hurt her in my company. But I had never calculated that I'd get hurt more than she ever would.
Nothing's funnier than someone with Down syndrome. Really. Have you ever seen EBaums World, where it's nothing but a two-minute reel of faces of people with Down syndrome? Hilarious.
I'm sure you know what I'm talking about. I know you're just like me you see a kid smiling dimly with those almond-shaped eyes and flat face and you laugh. Just like everyone else.
You do it because you think it's funny, because it's not normal, because it's not you, because you're so obviously above that mental stage. No one would think to call you a the r-word, because you're so obviously above that mental stage. You aren't the one who deserves it. They do. It's a commonly known fact, don't you see? Are you retarded?
Maybe I am. You decide.
My little sister, Caroline, was diagnosed with Robertsonian translocation at birth, a common strain of Down syndrome. She has a disability, one that leaves her just low-functioning enough to be ridiculed but just high-functioning enough to know it. She won the genetic lottery, the one that happens in a split second, months before a baby is introduced to a world that already hates her.
To water it down to teenager-friendly words, she's retarded.
But because we have the same mother, am I retarded, too?
Scientists say no. Discrimination laws say no. My indignant moral compass says no.
My high peers, however, sometimes say yes. And when that happens, being a the r-word stops being funny.
I remember the first time I became retarded by association. I was picking my little sister up from youth theater class.
Caroline looked up at me and smiled. She does that a lot. Her face scrunches up in a comical lopsided grin big enough to warm any heart. She's 11 now, a big sixth-grader who says she can do everything by herself.
She's constantly worrying about her wardrobe, hair and friends, typical of any middle school girl. To me, the only difference between Caroline and other girls her age is that she cares a little bit more about other people than she does herself. That and she's constantly smiling.
But that day something was amiss. The red hat. She didn't have a red hat when we got into the car for dance class & she has one now.
Caroline? Caroline. Look at me. Whose hat is that?
Mine.
No, sweetheart. You didn't bring a red hat to dance. Where'd you find it?
Well somebody gave it to me. It's mine.
There is no need to finish this conversation. I gently turn Caroline around and tap her to get her moving. We're walking back into the building to find (and apologize to) the owner of the mysterious red hat.
We don't walk far. Caroline marches emphatically up to a tall (read: attractive) teenage boy with slightly mussed hair, as if a hat had once graced his head. Blushing slightly, I sauntered up to him and his equally good-looking friends.
Hey, sorry to bother you? This, uh, isn't your hat is it?
Yeah, he laughed, but don't worry. I don't want it back.
Oh. Uh. OK.
Yeah, didn't you hear? It's supposed to be National the r-word Day.
My blushing came back. But not the good kind.
Excuse me? My little sister and I have to leave, but we can't do that with your hat on her head.
At this point, he started blushing a little bit, too.
Glancing at his buddies, he stammered, Oh, well, wouldn't want to do that. You'll, uh, probably both be late for your life skills class. I bet you're counting change today. Ha. Ha.
I wish I could say I slugged him. Or that I had some fantastic comeback that left him speechless. Instead, I smiled tartly, grabbed Caroline's arm and headed for the car.
While still in sight of the now seemingly young, immature, hateful little boys, I yanked the red hat off Caroline's head and slammed it forcefully into a nearby trash can. I wouldn't remember tearing off my headband to give to a devastated Caroline, who had genuinely wanted that despicable red hat. I wouldn't remember her giggling as she toyed with it in the backseat, arranging it in different ways on her head.
What I would remember was quietly shutting off my car, letting us inside the house and walking calmly up to my room. I would remember locking my door, picking up a miniature glass horse figurine and, with precision, shattering it against my wall.
It was the first time I had been called retarded.
It wasn't the first time somebody had made fun of Caroline to my face. But it was the first time something bad had happened to me as a result of protecting my baby sister. That first time is always a shock.
Naturally, I had come to my own terms with the fact that I'd hear people say some pretty awful things to or about Caroline. Of course I had anticipated that people wouldn't understand. They'd be mean. They'd hurt her.
I'd sworn to myself I'd never let somebody hurt her in my company. But I had never calculated that I'd get hurt more than she ever would.
It never ceases to amaze me that of all the hurtful things people say to or about one another, many are directed toward those who are developmentally disabled.
My little sister has had some heart-wrenching (and unprintable) things said to her, and it has yet to faze her. Whereas I break down at the hint of rejection, Caroline seems to have the ability to redefine it.
Of course, I'll hear the word 'the r-word' in a derogatory sense for the rest of my life. People will continue to use the word to hurt or tear down someone they know.
But that's all right. Call me crazy, but there are times that the word, in all its low and hurtful glory, reminds me that I, too, am capable of more than simply succumbing to the labels life hands us.
Reach Megan McVay, a junior at Blue Valley North, at teenstar@ kcstar.com. She originally wrote this essay for a class.
Todd and Christina, Kallie and Brittany, I love you guys. May the Lord continue to bless you and protect you as you continue to touch other's lives. (((hugs)))
Dentist
Originally posted May 21, 2007
It has been over 3 years since I've been to the dentist. The last time I went, I was in the middle of getting major work done on my teeth. I still have lots of work that needs to be done. We have awesome insurance - I didn't have to pay a penny, but in the middle of the work, I got a call from the office telling me that I reached the dollar amount for the year. Well, I chickened out and haven't been back, not to mention that I didn't have a vehicle for a little while during that period.
Well, one of my fillings has come out and I've been experiencing pain in my tooth on the lower right side. Scott got me their number and I called to make an appointment. I'm nervous since I haven't been in in a while, but they are nice and maybe I'll be able to flash a full smile again soon.
It has been over 3 years since I've been to the dentist. The last time I went, I was in the middle of getting major work done on my teeth. I still have lots of work that needs to be done. We have awesome insurance - I didn't have to pay a penny, but in the middle of the work, I got a call from the office telling me that I reached the dollar amount for the year. Well, I chickened out and haven't been back, not to mention that I didn't have a vehicle for a little while during that period.
Well, one of my fillings has come out and I've been experiencing pain in my tooth on the lower right side. Scott got me their number and I called to make an appointment. I'm nervous since I haven't been in in a while, but they are nice and maybe I'll be able to flash a full smile again soon.
What a Day!
Originally posted May 20, 2007
So, Jordan turned 9 today. Scott took Jordan and Levi to the store to get a cake. After we ate cake, Scott took Caytie (number 2 of 6 and the girl in the red shirt in my avatar) to the ER. On Friday, she was fooling around and fell off the back of the couch and hurt her arm. We didn't think it was broken and just had her put a bandanna sling on. But it was still hurting her quite a bit this morning and she was unable to straighten it out. So, after we had cake, Scott reluctantly took her to the hospital. They checked her out and took an x-ray. No broken bones (Thank you, LORD!) but she has a bone contusion. She's to keep it in a sling for a while. It's her left arm and, yes, she's left handed. *sigh* Oh, well. At least it's not broken.
This is the day that the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it.
So, Jordan turned 9 today. Scott took Jordan and Levi to the store to get a cake. After we ate cake, Scott took Caytie (number 2 of 6 and the girl in the red shirt in my avatar) to the ER. On Friday, she was fooling around and fell off the back of the couch and hurt her arm. We didn't think it was broken and just had her put a bandanna sling on. But it was still hurting her quite a bit this morning and she was unable to straighten it out. So, after we had cake, Scott reluctantly took her to the hospital. They checked her out and took an x-ray. No broken bones (Thank you, LORD!) but she has a bone contusion. She's to keep it in a sling for a while. It's her left arm and, yes, she's left handed. *sigh* Oh, well. At least it's not broken.
This is the day that the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it.
Happy Birthday, Jordan
Originally posted May 20, 2007
Jordan, the boy in the white shirt in my avatar, turns 9 today.
My kids are separated into two groups. The first four are one group and the "babies" are the other group. The "Four" are all between 16 and 18 months apart. Then, after Jordan was born, there was a four year gap before Kenaniah was born. A little over 9 years ago, the Lord had shown our pastor that the number 9 was significant to our congregation. The word received actually was Benign or Be Nine. We are to be like children with our Father. I remember that well because our pastor's daughter was 9 at the time. So, now, every year one of the Four turns 9, it's like a milestone.
So today is Jordan's turn. Because of Jordan's birth order in our family, he's a little difficult to figure out. He's quiet (when not with his friends) and prefers to stay indoors, avoiding the heat (like his mom). But Jordan is an affectionate child with lots of love to bestow on his parents and his 2 "baby" brothers.
Lord, thank you for bringing Jordan into our lives. He's a great kid and I know you have many plans for him. I pray that you use him mightily in your Kingdom and that he be a blessing to both you and to others. Protect him, keep him safe and keep him always in the shadow of your wings.
Jordan, the boy in the white shirt in my avatar, turns 9 today.
My kids are separated into two groups. The first four are one group and the "babies" are the other group. The "Four" are all between 16 and 18 months apart. Then, after Jordan was born, there was a four year gap before Kenaniah was born. A little over 9 years ago, the Lord had shown our pastor that the number 9 was significant to our congregation. The word received actually was Benign or Be Nine. We are to be like children with our Father. I remember that well because our pastor's daughter was 9 at the time. So, now, every year one of the Four turns 9, it's like a milestone.
So today is Jordan's turn. Because of Jordan's birth order in our family, he's a little difficult to figure out. He's quiet (when not with his friends) and prefers to stay indoors, avoiding the heat (like his mom). But Jordan is an affectionate child with lots of love to bestow on his parents and his 2 "baby" brothers.
Lord, thank you for bringing Jordan into our lives. He's a great kid and I know you have many plans for him. I pray that you use him mightily in your Kingdom and that he be a blessing to both you and to others. Protect him, keep him safe and keep him always in the shadow of your wings.
Starbucks Mug
Originally posted May 16, 2007
Scott and the kids got me a Starbucks card for Mother's Day. I went there last night after having to run to the Post Office and get 64 $.02 stamps (grrrr). I went to a different Starbucks than I normally go to. I tend to go to the same places all the time and don't like to sway from that. But the other one was closer, and even though I knew it would be crowded, I asked Kenaniah (my 4-year-old), who was with me, which one I should go to. He said, go to the one that is closer, mommy. So we went. As we walked into the store, I see city mugs. And I see that they are Ft. Lauderdale mugs. I have been collecting city mugs for almost 2 years. Since I don't go out of state often, I only have 3 mugs. So, I couldn't resist and spent 2 future coffees on this mug. :) Well worth it, though. It's a nice looking one.
Scott and the kids got me a Starbucks card for Mother's Day. I went there last night after having to run to the Post Office and get 64 $.02 stamps (grrrr). I went to a different Starbucks than I normally go to. I tend to go to the same places all the time and don't like to sway from that. But the other one was closer, and even though I knew it would be crowded, I asked Kenaniah (my 4-year-old), who was with me, which one I should go to. He said, go to the one that is closer, mommy. So we went. As we walked into the store, I see city mugs. And I see that they are Ft. Lauderdale mugs. I have been collecting city mugs for almost 2 years. Since I don't go out of state often, I only have 3 mugs. So, I couldn't resist and spent 2 future coffees on this mug. :) Well worth it, though. It's a nice looking one.
Emma (Not Alone) - A reminder to my friends
Originally posted May 11, 2007
I recently had a friend ask for prayer. Not uncommon. This time I really felt the need to post this for her and for any one else who needs to be reminded that we are not alone.
On my MySpace Friends list is a music artist by the name of Jason Upton. I LOVE to worship to his music. There is a song of his that's on his page called Emma (Not Alone). And I think it applies to my friend and anyone else who may be reading this and feeling alone.
I have added the song to my profile for a day or so. If it's not up, simply go to his site to listen to the song.
Don't be afraid baby don't you cry
Daddy's here it will be all right
You're not alone you're not alone
Don't be afraid when you're cold at night
I will keep you warm I will hold you tight
You're not alone you're not alone
Look beyond the window there
To the sky above to the open air
Look beyond what you can see
Close your eyes and just believe
The lion roars and the lamb lays down
They live together in a whole new town
They're calling me and they're calling you
From the cold hard facts that we're on our own
To the age old truth that we're not alone
Don't be afraid when you scrape your knee
I've got a band aide waiting and a kiss for free
You're not alone you're not alone
Don't be afraid of your blind belief
Because the more you fly the more you'll see
You're not alone you're not alone
Look beyond the window there
To the sky above to the open air
Look beyond what you can see
Close your eyes and just believe
The lion roars and the lamb lays down
They live together in a whole new town
They're calling me and they're calling you
From the cold hard facts that we're on our own
To the age old truth that we're not alone
Don't be afraid little warrior bride
Your victory's on the other side
You're not alone you're not alone
I recently had a friend ask for prayer. Not uncommon. This time I really felt the need to post this for her and for any one else who needs to be reminded that we are not alone.
On my MySpace Friends list is a music artist by the name of Jason Upton. I LOVE to worship to his music. There is a song of his that's on his page called Emma (Not Alone). And I think it applies to my friend and anyone else who may be reading this and feeling alone.
I have added the song to my profile for a day or so. If it's not up, simply go to his site to listen to the song.
Don't be afraid baby don't you cry
Daddy's here it will be all right
You're not alone you're not alone
Don't be afraid when you're cold at night
I will keep you warm I will hold you tight
You're not alone you're not alone
Look beyond the window there
To the sky above to the open air
Look beyond what you can see
Close your eyes and just believe
The lion roars and the lamb lays down
They live together in a whole new town
They're calling me and they're calling you
From the cold hard facts that we're on our own
To the age old truth that we're not alone
Don't be afraid when you scrape your knee
I've got a band aide waiting and a kiss for free
You're not alone you're not alone
Don't be afraid of your blind belief
Because the more you fly the more you'll see
You're not alone you're not alone
Look beyond the window there
To the sky above to the open air
Look beyond what you can see
Close your eyes and just believe
The lion roars and the lamb lays down
They live together in a whole new town
They're calling me and they're calling you
From the cold hard facts that we're on our own
To the age old truth that we're not alone
Don't be afraid little warrior bride
Your victory's on the other side
You're not alone you're not alone
When Kings Pray and Fast
Originally posted May 11, 2007
I had finished the book I started this past week. That's quite an accomplishment. Why? Because it's been YEARS since I have been able to read a book all the way through.
The title of this book is When Kings Pray and Fast by Kingsly Fletcher. It's an AWESOME book. And it's not talking about when the kings of this world pray and fast. It's talking about when WE as kings pray and fast. Revelation 1:4-6 shows us that we are kings and priests with Christ.
I usually accompany my husband to church on Thursday nights. He's there to practice with the worship team and I'm there to get out of the house and spend some time by myself. :)
I left my computer at home (on purpose) and brought my crochet and the book. I was left alone for a good 10 minutes and started reading the book. I started weeping while reading it. Not because of anything the authored had said, but because of what I believe the Lord was working in me through the book. So, I got up from the table where I was at and moved into the "mother's nursing room" so I could be alone when people started showing up. I spent the next 2 1/2 hours in that room reading, praying, weeping, interceding for certain things. Let me tell you it was the most awesome 2 1/2 hours I have ever spent. I also finished the book. I read over 200 pages in that time. I came out of that room completely refreshed. It was awesome.
Now, I don't know if the Lord will do that to everyone who reads this book, but I started this book for a reason. I know that a fast is to abstain from food or to abstain from SOMETHING. But I needed to dive deeper into the life of prayer and fasting. This book opened my spirit to that. It showed me the importance of a life of prayer and fasting. I pray. But the fasting part has always been a bit of a struggle with me. Knowing more about this has changed my mind.
If you are at all interested in the life of prayer and fasting, I suggest you get this book. I would even loan it to you if you are unsure if you want to purchase it.
I had finished the book I started this past week. That's quite an accomplishment. Why? Because it's been YEARS since I have been able to read a book all the way through.
The title of this book is When Kings Pray and Fast by Kingsly Fletcher. It's an AWESOME book. And it's not talking about when the kings of this world pray and fast. It's talking about when WE as kings pray and fast. Revelation 1:4-6 shows us that we are kings and priests with Christ.
I usually accompany my husband to church on Thursday nights. He's there to practice with the worship team and I'm there to get out of the house and spend some time by myself. :)
I left my computer at home (on purpose) and brought my crochet and the book. I was left alone for a good 10 minutes and started reading the book. I started weeping while reading it. Not because of anything the authored had said, but because of what I believe the Lord was working in me through the book. So, I got up from the table where I was at and moved into the "mother's nursing room" so I could be alone when people started showing up. I spent the next 2 1/2 hours in that room reading, praying, weeping, interceding for certain things. Let me tell you it was the most awesome 2 1/2 hours I have ever spent. I also finished the book. I read over 200 pages in that time. I came out of that room completely refreshed. It was awesome.
Now, I don't know if the Lord will do that to everyone who reads this book, but I started this book for a reason. I know that a fast is to abstain from food or to abstain from SOMETHING. But I needed to dive deeper into the life of prayer and fasting. This book opened my spirit to that. It showed me the importance of a life of prayer and fasting. I pray. But the fasting part has always been a bit of a struggle with me. Knowing more about this has changed my mind.
If you are at all interested in the life of prayer and fasting, I suggest you get this book. I would even loan it to you if you are unsure if you want to purchase it.
Gun Control
Originally posted on May 10, 2007
Someone on a forum I am a member of posted a link to this video. It pretty much sums up my views on gun control.
Link to ABC video
Someone on a forum I am a member of posted a link to this video. It pretty much sums up my views on gun control.
Link to ABC video
Little Baby Caytie
Originally posted May 6, 2007
My 2nd daughter, who we affectionately call "Little Baby Caytie" turns 12 today. She was such a little baby and is still little today.
During her first couple months of life, I would bring her to work with me. I worked at a Home Heath Care Agency and there were quite a few nurses who worked there. Two nurses in particular would take her from me and make a little bed in a file box for her. So cute!
I cannot believe she's twelve today. *sigh*
Happy Birthday Caytie girl. I love you.
My 2nd daughter, who we affectionately call "Little Baby Caytie" turns 12 today. She was such a little baby and is still little today.
During her first couple months of life, I would bring her to work with me. I worked at a Home Heath Care Agency and there were quite a few nurses who worked there. Two nurses in particular would take her from me and make a little bed in a file box for her. So cute!
I cannot believe she's twelve today. *sigh*
Happy Birthday Caytie girl. I love you.
I am blessed
Originally posted March 29, 2007
Due to damage done to our home from Hurricane Wilma, we had to have our roof replaced, portions of our ceiling in the kitchen and living room and the entire ceiling replaced in one of our kids' rooms. We also had 2 walls in that room replaced, portions of the living room and kitchen walls replaced. Because of that, we needed to paint the living room, kitchen and the bedroom.
Due to damage done to our home from Hurricane Wilma, we had to have our roof replaced, portions of our ceiling in the kitchen and living room and the entire ceiling replaced in one of our kids' rooms. We also had 2 walls in that room replaced, portions of the living room and kitchen walls replaced. Because of that, we needed to paint the living room, kitchen and the bedroom.
The bedroom was finished last year, but work was being done this week on our living room and kitchen. We chose a brown color called "First Anniversary" (where do they come up with these names?). I cannot remember the brand of paint - we picked it out at Home Depot. We decided to paint the living room and kitchen the same color. When in the living room, one is able to see a kitchen wall and when in the kitchen, one is able to see a living room wall. I wanted the rooms to flow since they didn't before.
Yesterday, finishing touches were done and floorboards were installed.
Wow. What a difference a coat of paint makes. Not to mention floorboards. We hadn't had floorboards since we got new flooring which was almost 3 years ago. I'm not much of a housekeeper. I want to be, I just get sidetracked and want to do something else. But seeing my "new" walls makes it seem like a new house. Maybe I can get into the habit of keeping it clean. Maybe.
But I'm happy. I'm more satisfied with my house. With the high cost of homes in the area equaling higher taxes, I was VERY content with staying in my small, humble home. The "new" walls makes it TONS easier being even more satisfied.
During the offering time at our worship service on Sunday, Mike prayed that we would be satisfied. And the way he said it wasn't the normal sense of being satisfied. It wasn't, give us everything we want until we're happy. It was, help us to be content with what we have - satisfied. I never equated being content with being satisfied. Maybe I should have.
Lord, I want to be satisfied with everything You have given me. I enjoy the "toys" You give me, the "extra toppings", but I want to be satisfied with what I already have. Satisfied and thankful. And, Lord, I am thankful for what you have given me. I have a loving husband and 6 beautiful, healthy children. I live in a state where I am able to freely educate my children. My state also allows me the honor and privilege to protect myself and my family. We have a home. We have a roof over our heads that You have allowed us to get fixed so it doesn't leak. We are able to enjoy rain showers and thunderstorms again. (Bring those in, Lord! We need rain!) We have 2 vehicles that are OURS. We have food in the house and gas in the tanks of our vehicles. My husband has a job and I am able to stay at home with the children. We are able to freely choose the house of worship we attend. The list goes on and on and on.
I am blessed. I am loved. I am a Kings Kid.
Suburban
Originally posted March 1, 2007
We bought a Suburban for me! Yay! I had wanted one since I was in grade school. It's large enough to fit all the family plus cargo. Awesome.
We bought a Suburban for me! Yay! I had wanted one since I was in grade school. It's large enough to fit all the family plus cargo. Awesome.
37 degrees
Originally posted:
Monday, February 19, 2007
I live in South Florida. The tropics. Sun, sand (all over the house), palm trees, rain and heat.
We, ok, I'll say I, am blessed with a few days throughout the year of cooler weather. Being from Wisconsin, I tolerate the heat when I'm outside, which isn't often. I mostly stay indoors, out of the sun and the heat. So when the temperature drops to 75 or lower, the windows get opened and the fresh air comes in.
This past weekend, it was COLD. I enjoyed it, knowing it wouldn't last long. But I did have a blanket in the truck with me to lay across my lap. Sunday morning, I woke to rain. And wind. And cold. Not a good combination. Brrrrrr!
This morning, it was cold in the house. I had wished I had another blanket to sleep with. When the alarm went off, I got up to make coffee and peeked at the thermostat. 65. Walking around the house in shorts and it's 65 inside. I wonder what it's like outside? No, I didn't open the door to check. I was still sleepy. ;) I checked weather.com and it said 37. Scott is still under the covers, wishing away the alarm. He asked me how cold it was. I told him if I said how cold it was, he wouldn't want to get up. He insisted. I told him. It took him another 10 minutes or so to get out of bed. Hee hee.
I think my early risers may sleep in a bit this morning. They won't want to get out from under the covers. Maybe then I can sleep in a bit. Ha ha!
So, I like the cold, but this is freezing. Not literally, of couse. I do know that freezing is 5 degrees colder than what it is right now. But in my book, it's freezing. It's a simple reminder that I love where I live. I do not miss being so cold I can't get warm. When it feels as if my hands are burning because they are so cold. No, give me Florida heat over Wisconsin winters anytime.
My kids keep begging me to see snow. I try to tell them they can live perfectly happy, productive lives without ever seeing that stuff. But the unknown has intrigued them. They pray for snow. They ask if we can take them to see snow someday. Sigh. Ok. One day we'll go see snow.
Monday, February 19, 2007
I live in South Florida. The tropics. Sun, sand (all over the house), palm trees, rain and heat.
We, ok, I'll say I, am blessed with a few days throughout the year of cooler weather. Being from Wisconsin, I tolerate the heat when I'm outside, which isn't often. I mostly stay indoors, out of the sun and the heat. So when the temperature drops to 75 or lower, the windows get opened and the fresh air comes in.
This past weekend, it was COLD. I enjoyed it, knowing it wouldn't last long. But I did have a blanket in the truck with me to lay across my lap. Sunday morning, I woke to rain. And wind. And cold. Not a good combination. Brrrrrr!
This morning, it was cold in the house. I had wished I had another blanket to sleep with. When the alarm went off, I got up to make coffee and peeked at the thermostat. 65. Walking around the house in shorts and it's 65 inside. I wonder what it's like outside? No, I didn't open the door to check. I was still sleepy. ;) I checked weather.com and it said 37. Scott is still under the covers, wishing away the alarm. He asked me how cold it was. I told him if I said how cold it was, he wouldn't want to get up. He insisted. I told him. It took him another 10 minutes or so to get out of bed. Hee hee.
I think my early risers may sleep in a bit this morning. They won't want to get out from under the covers. Maybe then I can sleep in a bit. Ha ha!
So, I like the cold, but this is freezing. Not literally, of couse. I do know that freezing is 5 degrees colder than what it is right now. But in my book, it's freezing. It's a simple reminder that I love where I live. I do not miss being so cold I can't get warm. When it feels as if my hands are burning because they are so cold. No, give me Florida heat over Wisconsin winters anytime.
My kids keep begging me to see snow. I try to tell them they can live perfectly happy, productive lives without ever seeing that stuff. But the unknown has intrigued them. They pray for snow. They ask if we can take them to see snow someday. Sigh. Ok. One day we'll go see snow.
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