I'm sure with Christmas just days away, you likely need a break. So get a cup of tea or hot chocolate, shut the door, turn your volume up and drift away for 2 minutes. Thank God for what he's given you this year, and proclaim the joy in your own heart as you listen to Joy to the World.
MERRY CHRISTMAS!!
12/22/2010
12/20/2010
Rainy Day Tip #1
It's raining. Still. It's been raining for like a week. I've lost count. Cause it's supposed to keep raining for the next week.
Where oh where has my little sun gone? Oh where or where can she be? Cause she's clearly left Southern California.
Everyone together now: "The rain came down for forty long days-ies, days-ies..."
Anyway, what better rainy day activity is there?
Dip something! Yum!!
It's simple really, melt chocolate chips or better yet melting chocolate in 20 second spurts in the micro until runny. Then dip! Everything. And almost anything.
If you're like me you might have lollipop sticks and molds on hand so do some of those too. If not, pretzels, marshmallows, Oreo's, graham crackers, holiday cookies, apples or apple slices, drizzle it on popcorn and let harden, then break and eat! So many options, so many rainy days to try them out!
Stay dray. Stay warm. Stay sane. Reply with your favorite rainy day activities.
Where oh where has my little sun gone? Oh where or where can she be? Cause she's clearly left Southern California.
Everyone together now: "The rain came down for forty long days-ies, days-ies..."
Anyway, what better rainy day activity is there?
Dip something! Yum!!
 |
It's simple really, melt chocolate chips or better yet melting chocolate in 20 second spurts in the micro until runny. Then dip! Everything. And almost anything.
If you're like me you might have lollipop sticks and molds on hand so do some of those too. If not, pretzels, marshmallows, Oreo's, graham crackers, holiday cookies, apples or apple slices, drizzle it on popcorn and let harden, then break and eat! So many options, so many rainy days to try them out!
Stay dray. Stay warm. Stay sane. Reply with your favorite rainy day activities.
12/08/2010
1 Corinthians 13 for Christmas
from Intentionally Katie
If I decorate my house perfectly with plaid bows, strands of twinkling lights and shiny glass balls, but do not show love to my family, I'm just another decorator.If I slave away in the kitchen, baking dozens of Christmas cookies, preparing gourmet meals and arranging a beautifully adorned table at mealtime, but do not show love to my family, I'm just another cook.
If I work at the soup kitchen, carol in a nursing home and give all that I have to charity, but do not show love to my family, it profits me nothing.
If I trim the spruce with shimmering angels and crocheted snowflakes, attend a myriad of holiday parties and sing the choir's cantata, but do not focus on Christ, I have missed the point.
Love stops cooking to huge a child.
Love sets aside the decorating to kiss the husband.
Love is kind, though harried and tired.
Love doesn't envy another's home that has coordinated Christmas china and table linens.
Love doesn't yell at the kids to get out of the way.
Love doesn't give only to those who are able to give in return, but rejoices in giving to those who can't.
Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
Love never fails. Video games will break, pearl necklaces will be lost and golf clubs will rust.
But giving the gift of love endures.
(author unknown)
12/07/2010
Local Christmas Events
Here's just a couple of local Christmas Events still to come:
Polar Express Movie, Cookies & Milk - Glendora Public Library, Dec. 9 - 3pm
Glendora Christmas Parade - Dec. 11, 9am
Christian Credit Union Snow Day - Dec. 11, noon - 3pm
The Living Nativity: A Peace that Endures - Church of the Open Door, Dec. 17, 18, 19 - 6-9pm
What other events are you and your family attending??
10/11/2010
Could we please study something else?
This last year I've spent some substantial time looking over my life story. Specifically connecting the dots to see God's Sovereignty. A lot of the time we can't see all the connections or any great significance to a current situation, but when I do see them, I love it. My heart is over-joyed! There's just something about seeing God's handiwork in my life that gives me the strength to endure today. Have you ever considered God's fingerprints in your own life?
I've also noticed that often the lessons you are learning most acutely are the ones which you are currently being equipped for. I often find re-occurring themes in my quiet time, through discipleship, during bible study and in sermons. Sometimes it feels like a quilt. Smaller broken pieces carefully woven together to create a beautiful blanket. The same biblical principle from different approaches, all coming together purposed for my heart.
Now I'm not sure where this fits on my quilt, maybe it's only a small piece appliqued on one section, but I know I see God's handiwork all over it.
The last two months have been abnormally emotionally and physically exhausting as relational, business, health, and fall schedule stresses mounted. And then last week I was in what officers called, "a minor single car accident". Clearly the word minor is relative. But let me back up a bit.
I was coming home just before 11pm, turning the corner at a familiar intersection. It was dark and wet after lightly raining all day. I lost control, the side airbags deployed and I found myself on the median facing the wrong direction. I called 911. "I lost control" doesn't really carry the same meaning, unless you've actually done it yourself. I had no idea what was happening, and I had no control over how to stop it. It wasn't until I was talking with the officers on scene that we sort of pieced together what had happened.
Apparently, I hydroplaned on the wet roads, fish-tailed, slammed into the median and then whipped back around and landed on the median facing the wrong direction.
I don't recommend it.
Despite the frightening experience, I have lots to be thankful for: I was alone in the car and wearing my seat belt. There was no one else around or involved in the accident. I didn't roll. I had side impact airbags, an option I insisted on when we bought the car 5 years ago, and which likely prevented a head injury. Police were on the scene in less than 2 minutes from my coming to a stop. The tow truck was there within 10 minutes, and so was my Dad, who waited with me, helped remove the kids car seats and drove me home. Although I was sore and stiff, after a few of days the pain subsided, and I seem to be fine.
So now we wait. Considering the airbags, a brief preliminary statement from the auto body shop & some friends, we are under the impression the car will be totaled. This wouldn't be that big a deal, but in six weeks we're driving to the Oregon coast for Thanksgiving. This 'minor' accident has caused some huge waves.
How much will the insurance company reimburse us? Will we be able to replace the car before our road trip north? What options do we have? The list goes on and on and is added to by all those other details of life, relationship and ministry. And I admit it, I'm worried.
It is no coincidence we decided months ago we'd be reading, Calm My Anxious Heart this year in Growing Up Mom. God's timing is perfect. I wouldn't have guessed my next life lessons would be about contentment, patience, or trusting in God's perfect and complete provision; in fact I would have graded myself pretty high in those areas. But then apparently life is relative too.
So here I am, asking God, "What are you teaching me?" Looking for the bigger picture on the quilt and waiting patiently (or not so patiently) for Him to point it out. Wishing I wasn't reading about contentment so my lessons could be in something else. And I just want to scream, "Could we please study something else? Something a little less painful, hard and exhausting?!"
My pastor once asked me if I thought the next sermon series should be, "5 reasons Jesus wants you to be rich, happy, and totally satisfied," or "40 days of irresponsible bliss on earth"? I had been lamenting that every series he'd done in the last 5 years, has pulled, stretched and grown me, despite my protesting. I was hoping he could preach some light fluffy sermons to give us a break. But I see his point. What would God be teaching me while my days were blissful? How many would His fingerprints be upon my soul if I was totally satisfied here on earth? Instead I long for him to teach me his ways.
Psalm 86 1 Hear, O LORD, and answer me, for I am poor and needy. 2 Guard my life, for I am devoted to you. You are my God; save your servant who trusts in you. 3 Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I call to you all day long. 4 Bring joy to your servant, for to you, O Lord, lift up my soul. 5 You are forgiving and good, O Lord, abounding in love to all who call to you. 6 Hear my prayer, O LORD; listen to my cry for mercy. 7 In the day of my trouble I will call to you, for you will answer me. 8 Among the gods there is none like you, O Lord; no deeds can compare with yours. 9 All the nations you have made will come and worship before you, O Lord; they will bring glory to your name. 10 For you are great and do marvelous deeds; you alone are God. 11 Teach me your way, O LORD, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name. 12 I will praise you, O Lord my God, with all my heart; I will glorify your name forever. 13 For great is your love toward me; you have delivered me from the depths of the grave.
How about you? Are you tired from the lessons? Encouraged by how He orchestrates the events of your life? I hope you're seeing how He's weaves it all together and finding strength for the day as you trust in his provision.
I've also noticed that often the lessons you are learning most acutely are the ones which you are currently being equipped for. I often find re-occurring themes in my quiet time, through discipleship, during bible study and in sermons. Sometimes it feels like a quilt. Smaller broken pieces carefully woven together to create a beautiful blanket. The same biblical principle from different approaches, all coming together purposed for my heart.
Now I'm not sure where this fits on my quilt, maybe it's only a small piece appliqued on one section, but I know I see God's handiwork all over it.
The last two months have been abnormally emotionally and physically exhausting as relational, business, health, and fall schedule stresses mounted. And then last week I was in what officers called, "a minor single car accident". Clearly the word minor is relative. But let me back up a bit.
I was coming home just before 11pm, turning the corner at a familiar intersection. It was dark and wet after lightly raining all day. I lost control, the side airbags deployed and I found myself on the median facing the wrong direction. I called 911. "I lost control" doesn't really carry the same meaning, unless you've actually done it yourself. I had no idea what was happening, and I had no control over how to stop it. It wasn't until I was talking with the officers on scene that we sort of pieced together what had happened.
Apparently, I hydroplaned on the wet roads, fish-tailed, slammed into the median and then whipped back around and landed on the median facing the wrong direction.
I don't recommend it.
Despite the frightening experience, I have lots to be thankful for: I was alone in the car and wearing my seat belt. There was no one else around or involved in the accident. I didn't roll. I had side impact airbags, an option I insisted on when we bought the car 5 years ago, and which likely prevented a head injury. Police were on the scene in less than 2 minutes from my coming to a stop. The tow truck was there within 10 minutes, and so was my Dad, who waited with me, helped remove the kids car seats and drove me home. Although I was sore and stiff, after a few of days the pain subsided, and I seem to be fine.
So now we wait. Considering the airbags, a brief preliminary statement from the auto body shop & some friends, we are under the impression the car will be totaled. This wouldn't be that big a deal, but in six weeks we're driving to the Oregon coast for Thanksgiving. This 'minor' accident has caused some huge waves.
How much will the insurance company reimburse us? Will we be able to replace the car before our road trip north? What options do we have? The list goes on and on and is added to by all those other details of life, relationship and ministry. And I admit it, I'm worried.
It is no coincidence we decided months ago we'd be reading, Calm My Anxious Heart this year in Growing Up Mom. God's timing is perfect. I wouldn't have guessed my next life lessons would be about contentment, patience, or trusting in God's perfect and complete provision; in fact I would have graded myself pretty high in those areas. But then apparently life is relative too.
So here I am, asking God, "What are you teaching me?" Looking for the bigger picture on the quilt and waiting patiently (or not so patiently) for Him to point it out. Wishing I wasn't reading about contentment so my lessons could be in something else. And I just want to scream, "Could we please study something else? Something a little less painful, hard and exhausting?!"
My pastor once asked me if I thought the next sermon series should be, "5 reasons Jesus wants you to be rich, happy, and totally satisfied," or "40 days of irresponsible bliss on earth"? I had been lamenting that every series he'd done in the last 5 years, has pulled, stretched and grown me, despite my protesting. I was hoping he could preach some light fluffy sermons to give us a break. But I see his point. What would God be teaching me while my days were blissful? How many would His fingerprints be upon my soul if I was totally satisfied here on earth? Instead I long for him to teach me his ways.
Psalm 86 1 Hear, O LORD, and answer me, for I am poor and needy. 2 Guard my life, for I am devoted to you. You are my God; save your servant who trusts in you. 3 Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I call to you all day long. 4 Bring joy to your servant, for to you, O Lord, lift up my soul. 5 You are forgiving and good, O Lord, abounding in love to all who call to you. 6 Hear my prayer, O LORD; listen to my cry for mercy. 7 In the day of my trouble I will call to you, for you will answer me. 8 Among the gods there is none like you, O Lord; no deeds can compare with yours. 9 All the nations you have made will come and worship before you, O Lord; they will bring glory to your name. 10 For you are great and do marvelous deeds; you alone are God. 11 Teach me your way, O LORD, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name. 12 I will praise you, O Lord my God, with all my heart; I will glorify your name forever. 13 For great is your love toward me; you have delivered me from the depths of the grave.
How about you? Are you tired from the lessons? Encouraged by how He orchestrates the events of your life? I hope you're seeing how He's weaves it all together and finding strength for the day as you trust in his provision.
10/01/2010
Fung Fu Anxiousness
Have you ever overheard your children's movie and thought, "wow - okay God. I hear you." No? Okay so maybe not that common if you're watching Caillou or Disney princesses. But this did happened to me the other day.
I was cooking dinner and the kids were watching Kung Fu Panda.
"Everybody was kung fu fighting..." Oh wait. That's not where I was going.
Okay, so I was cooking dinner and Oogway and Shifu were talking by the peach tree.
"My friend, [you] will never fulfill [your] destiny, until you let go of the illusion of control. ... I can plant the seed in the ground, cover it with soil, and nurture it with water and sunlight. But I cannot make the tree blossom when it suits me nor make it bear fruit before its time."
"Let go of the illusion of control." Immediately that still small voice said, "Who's in control? You?" And then gently and tenderly, "Certainly not." You can plant and nurture, but YOU can not make that tree bear fruit.
I can worry about my finances, or my kids education or social skills. I can plan and strategize about where we're going today, tomorrow and next month. I can micromanage the details until I'm sick of my own calendar and schedule. But it's still not going to put me in any more control over the un-controllable.
Those things I'm worried over, like my mother-in-laws aging health, I can't control one bit.
Anything sounding familiar here?
Sounds a lot like the monks story in Calm My Anxious Heart, "Thou hast made it and Thou dost know." God made all these things that weigh me down, these things which cause my anxious heart to spiral out of control, and feel completely overwhelmed. He knows exactly what's going on. Not only does he causes the peach tree to grow and bear fruit, but he does it for me too.
Who better to put my trust in than the one who knows me fully?
Psalm 139
I was cooking dinner and the kids were watching Kung Fu Panda.
"Everybody was kung fu fighting..." Oh wait. That's not where I was going.Okay, so I was cooking dinner and Oogway and Shifu were talking by the peach tree.
"My friend, [you] will never fulfill [your] destiny, until you let go of the illusion of control. ... I can plant the seed in the ground, cover it with soil, and nurture it with water and sunlight. But I cannot make the tree blossom when it suits me nor make it bear fruit before its time."
"Let go of the illusion of control." Immediately that still small voice said, "Who's in control? You?" And then gently and tenderly, "Certainly not." You can plant and nurture, but YOU can not make that tree bear fruit.
I can worry about my finances, or my kids education or social skills. I can plan and strategize about where we're going today, tomorrow and next month. I can micromanage the details until I'm sick of my own calendar and schedule. But it's still not going to put me in any more control over the un-controllable.
Those things I'm worried over, like my mother-in-laws aging health, I can't control one bit.
Anything sounding familiar here?
Sounds a lot like the monks story in Calm My Anxious Heart, "Thou hast made it and Thou dost know." God made all these things that weigh me down, these things which cause my anxious heart to spiral out of control, and feel completely overwhelmed. He knows exactly what's going on. Not only does he causes the peach tree to grow and bear fruit, but he does it for me too.
Who better to put my trust in than the one who knows me fully?
Psalm 139
1 O LORD, you have searched me and you know me. 2 You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. 3 You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. 4 Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O LORD. 5 You hem me in—behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me. 6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain. 7 Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? 8 If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. 9 If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, 10 even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. 11 If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me," 12 even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you. 13 For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. 14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. 15 My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, 16 your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. 17 How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them!
Sweet Sisters! Why do we worry so. He made us. He knows us. He is with us. His hand is upon us. He has ordained our days. What in the world is there to worry about?
So take whatever it is He's whispering to you about right now. And let Him handle it.
Phillipians 4:6-7 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
May it be so for you and for me, today!
9/30/2010
Fire Station Tour - Pint Sized Adventure
This morning we toured Fire Station 97 as a Pint Sized Adventure and was it ever! Some of us (perhaps more than others) got more than they bargained for!
I was so excited to be able to make this Fire Station Tour work. This was the third one I'd scheduled in 2010, and I'd been wanting to do it for about a year longer. The Captain's up at the station were very nice, friendly, accommodating and we just all had a blast!
Here's the link to all the pictures, you'll definitely want to click the picture to view them all! But you might want to read all the way to the end of this blog post before you do!
Of course, today's visit wasn't without calls either. We had only been there about 5 minutes when the alarm went off and they had to head out to a call! Kindly Fireman Chris stayed behind to get us started on the tour while we waited for the big truck and the firemen to return.
We saw the Captains office, the dormitory, the kitchen & lizzard lounge (think living room). All very interesting. Chris did a great job talking with us and the kids and answering all our questions.
When the Captain, the men and the truck returned they joined the group and finished out the tour with us.
Somewhere along the way I got pegged as Ms. Adventurous. Now, I won't lie. I do like me some adventure. And I don't mind being in front of a crowd (at least not that much! - anymore!) and so I agreed to be the volunteer. To do what you ask? Volunteer to race the rookie putting on his gear!! Um...wait, you want me to put what on?
In case you've never worn fireman's gear (I mean, I hadn't before) you start with your boots. Step in, pull those yellow pants up and get those suspenders over your shoulders. Then the head hood (which goes over your head and neck to make sure there isn't any exposed skin in a fire). Next the jacket, axe, oxygen tank pack, mask .... WHAT?!!
Hold on there one second. I'm good with boots, pants, jacket and a hat! What's this about a mask and tank?!
Here's where I let you in on my Kryptonite secret...I'm a little bit claustraphobic.
I mean, I don't mind most small spaces...unless its dark. Or scary. Or I'm locked in and seriously really can't get out. But things on my face, tight things on my face, things that involve a fireman repeating over and over, "You can still breathe. Just breathe normal." Um...no thank you.
Now for you mamas who were there, you'll have to let me know if you could tell. I mean I thought I put on a brave face. You know, for the kids. (Not that my kids wanted anything to do with me once I was in full gear, mind you!) Despite my calm, collected, exterior demeanor - I was about 30 seconds from panicking and passing out.
No Lie.
Passing out!
I mean it was hot in there! That gear is heavy. And HOT! Like seriously blazing hot. Remember the 115 degree weather we had a few days ago? This was worse.
I don't think that the panting and the profuse sweat dripping off my body (and into whomever's fire gear that was! - eew!! and I'm so so sorry!!) was helping.
So I concentrated on my breathing. And not passing out. And breathing. And telling myself this was not a good time to have a panic attack. Rinse and repeat.
And so as I concentrated on breathing, I put on a smile and bravely stood and took pictures with the kids for almost an entire millenium, before I turned and calmly tapped my closest man in blue to please. remove. the. mask. now.
I don't think I yelled, but maybe that's just cause no one could here me if I had tried.
With the mask removed it was like the heavens opened. Air. Fresh air! (Not like that crazy gas they were pumping in the mask to me!) Sweet beautiful, God created, fresh air. Exhale. End scene.
So you might be asking yourself, "what did Karen learn in this little exercise?" Hmm? Hmm. Me too. But here's my reflections. I learned I was not meant to be a fire woman. No way. No how. It. is. not. going. to. happen. Ever. I also learned that being the adventurous one can sometimes get you in a pickle - oh wait, I already knew that (thank you to everyone who has ever volunteered me for anything).
And more importantly, I learned I have no idea how those men do what they do. To all my firemen friends, past and current. My fire hat is tipped to you. Not only do you face real danger all the time, you do it under crazy circumstances and with huge amounts of gear on!! THANK YOU for what you do!
After I had recovered from my near death trauma (or slightly sooner) all the kids got to stand in the boots and pants and jacket and helmet too! (No claustrophobic mask for them - the wimps!)
And of course we climbed in and around the fire truck, and they even let us spray a hose!
Overall - GREAT Pint Sized Adventure!!
By the way. I totally blew rookie Tim out of the water. One minute, 20 seconds into full gear. (Ignore the other two firemen helping me gear up!) Beat that rookie man!
Anyone want to visit the Police Department?
I was so excited to be able to make this Fire Station Tour work. This was the third one I'd scheduled in 2010, and I'd been wanting to do it for about a year longer. The Captain's up at the station were very nice, friendly, accommodating and we just all had a blast!
Here's the link to all the pictures, you'll definitely want to click the picture to view them all! But you might want to read all the way to the end of this blog post before you do!
Of course, today's visit wasn't without calls either. We had only been there about 5 minutes when the alarm went off and they had to head out to a call! Kindly Fireman Chris stayed behind to get us started on the tour while we waited for the big truck and the firemen to return.
We saw the Captains office, the dormitory, the kitchen & lizzard lounge (think living room). All very interesting. Chris did a great job talking with us and the kids and answering all our questions.
When the Captain, the men and the truck returned they joined the group and finished out the tour with us.
Somewhere along the way I got pegged as Ms. Adventurous. Now, I won't lie. I do like me some adventure. And I don't mind being in front of a crowd (at least not that much! - anymore!) and so I agreed to be the volunteer. To do what you ask? Volunteer to race the rookie putting on his gear!! Um...wait, you want me to put what on?
In case you've never worn fireman's gear (I mean, I hadn't before) you start with your boots. Step in, pull those yellow pants up and get those suspenders over your shoulders. Then the head hood (which goes over your head and neck to make sure there isn't any exposed skin in a fire). Next the jacket, axe, oxygen tank pack, mask .... WHAT?!!
Hold on there one second. I'm good with boots, pants, jacket and a hat! What's this about a mask and tank?!
Here's where I let you in on my Kryptonite secret...I'm a little bit claustraphobic.
I mean, I don't mind most small spaces...unless its dark. Or scary. Or I'm locked in and seriously really can't get out. But things on my face, tight things on my face, things that involve a fireman repeating over and over, "You can still breathe. Just breathe normal." Um...no thank you.
Now for you mamas who were there, you'll have to let me know if you could tell. I mean I thought I put on a brave face. You know, for the kids. (Not that my kids wanted anything to do with me once I was in full gear, mind you!) Despite my calm, collected, exterior demeanor - I was about 30 seconds from panicking and passing out.
No Lie.
Passing out!
I mean it was hot in there! That gear is heavy. And HOT! Like seriously blazing hot. Remember the 115 degree weather we had a few days ago? This was worse.
I don't think that the panting and the profuse sweat dripping off my body (and into whomever's fire gear that was! - eew!! and I'm so so sorry!!) was helping.
So I concentrated on my breathing. And not passing out. And breathing. And telling myself this was not a good time to have a panic attack. Rinse and repeat.
And so as I concentrated on breathing, I put on a smile and bravely stood and took pictures with the kids for almost an entire millenium, before I turned and calmly tapped my closest man in blue to please. remove. the. mask. now.
I don't think I yelled, but maybe that's just cause no one could here me if I had tried.
With the mask removed it was like the heavens opened. Air. Fresh air! (Not like that crazy gas they were pumping in the mask to me!) Sweet beautiful, God created, fresh air. Exhale. End scene.
So you might be asking yourself, "what did Karen learn in this little exercise?" Hmm? Hmm. Me too. But here's my reflections. I learned I was not meant to be a fire woman. No way. No how. It. is. not. going. to. happen. Ever. I also learned that being the adventurous one can sometimes get you in a pickle - oh wait, I already knew that (thank you to everyone who has ever volunteered me for anything).
And more importantly, I learned I have no idea how those men do what they do. To all my firemen friends, past and current. My fire hat is tipped to you. Not only do you face real danger all the time, you do it under crazy circumstances and with huge amounts of gear on!! THANK YOU for what you do!
After I had recovered from my near death trauma (or slightly sooner) all the kids got to stand in the boots and pants and jacket and helmet too! (No claustrophobic mask for them - the wimps!)
And of course we climbed in and around the fire truck, and they even let us spray a hose!
Overall - GREAT Pint Sized Adventure!!
By the way. I totally blew rookie Tim out of the water. One minute, 20 seconds into full gear. (Ignore the other two firemen helping me gear up!) Beat that rookie man!
Anyone want to visit the Police Department?
9/23/2010
Pint Sized Adventure - FIre Station #97
Take Two! (We're trying this again after last springs unsuccessful attempt.)
So, I scheduled a Pint Sized Adventure at Fire Station #97 (on Sierra Madre) for THURSDAY, SEPT. 30th at 10:30AM. Captain Steve and his crew will talk about fire safety but mostly we'll be hands on with the truck, water and fire hats!
Remember these are tricky tours to coordinate, these are working guys, but hopefully they'll be able to have us at the station!!
Please use the poll box to the right to let me know if you're planning to come or not.
9/20/2010
My almost 13 (wow – where do those years go?) niece broke her hand catching a fly ball in her winter-ball game (softball in the off season) the other morning. She’s out for the season. As you can imagine by the mere fact that she plays softball year round, it’s a pretty big disappointment. She couldn’t finish the game, as it was quite apparent a trip to the ER was in order, much less come back and finish the season with her team. Her momentum has been thwarted. Have you ever felt this way? Like you just can’t finish the game, much less make it through the season? I’ve had those moments. And my prayers sound something like this: Lord, I’m too tired to keep parenting these children. Lord, I’m too broken to show your love and grace to this difficult person. Lord, I’m hurting and upset and I just can’t do it anymore, I can’t take this suffering anymore.
Fortunately for me, this isn’t a permanent affliction. It won’t be for my niece either, though the road to health will require some doctor’s visits and maybe surgery, she will recover.
Sometime’s that is just what I need too, a visit with my maker, a mental break from momentary sufferings. As I turn to my Savior and cry out in the midst of my hurt and weakness, he meets me. He lovingly tends my wounds and gives me strength for the day.
2 Samuel 22:33 33 It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect.
1 Chronicles 16: 8-11 8 Give thanks to the LORD, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done. 9 Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. 10 Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice. 11 Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always.
Isaiah 40:28-30 28 Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. 29 He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. 30 Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; 31 but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Sometimes all I (and maybe you) need is to do is re-frame my pain and suffering. Lord, you made the whole earth and you love me. You never tire of caring for my needs and you always give me the strength to carry on. Thank you for giving me your strength.
And he does.
9/16/2010
Table Assignments
Here they are, enjoy those mentor moms ladies!!
Barb: Brenda, Sara, Amy, Katie, Abra, Janeen, Stacy
Judy: Amie, Karen, Michele, Breanne, Salpy, Sarah
Carol: Ashley, Emi, Elizabeth, Steffani, Olivia, Yvonne, Stephanie
Aileen: Kathy, Elizabeth G., Gillian, Lindsay, Celia, Tiffany
9/13/2010
Pint Sized Park Day
Pint Sized Park Adventures have begun. Every 2nd Thursday of the month, hope to see you next month!
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| park pictures |
9/08/2010
Awesome Website - Review
If you're like me, you likely find yourself printing out coloring pages for your kids weekly. What's that honey, you'd like a coloring page of a giraffe or dinosaur? Sure honey, let mommy search Google images.
If you haven't used this tactic before, you should. Need a few minutes to get those dishes out of the sink, or put the baby down for a nap, or take a shower? Print out some coloring pages for the bigger kids, sit them at the table with some crayons or washable markers and I can almost guarantee you 15 minutes.
Today it was birthday cards for Daddy (who's birthday is Sunday). So we were looking for just the right cake and present coloring pages, when I stumbled upon Twisty Noodle. Now why I've never found Twisty Noodle before, I have no idea, and I'm pretty sure my life was much more miserable without it.
Twisty Noodle has coloring pages and worksheets galore. Not only that, but you can CUSTOMIZE each sheet with your own WORDS in a bold font, or traceable letters!!
You can make a coloring sheet a worksheet to color and practice letters. Remember the giraffe & dinosaur?
It's simple. Search. Customize. Print. And there's thousands of images to choose from! I know you're going to love it as much as I do!!
If you haven't used this tactic before, you should. Need a few minutes to get those dishes out of the sink, or put the baby down for a nap, or take a shower? Print out some coloring pages for the bigger kids, sit them at the table with some crayons or washable markers and I can almost guarantee you 15 minutes.
Today it was birthday cards for Daddy (who's birthday is Sunday). So we were looking for just the right cake and present coloring pages, when I stumbled upon Twisty Noodle. Now why I've never found Twisty Noodle before, I have no idea, and I'm pretty sure my life was much more miserable without it.
Twisty Noodle has coloring pages and worksheets galore. Not only that, but you can CUSTOMIZE each sheet with your own WORDS in a bold font, or traceable letters!!
You can make a coloring sheet a worksheet to color and practice letters. Remember the giraffe & dinosaur?
It's simple. Search. Customize. Print. And there's thousands of images to choose from! I know you're going to love it as much as I do!!
9/07/2010
God's Chisel
Ephesians 2:10 For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Are you still doubting God's love for you? Still questioning what He could possibly with you?
God doesn't make junk. His love for you knows no boundaries.
Are you still doubting God's love for you? Still questioning what He could possibly with you?
God doesn't make junk. His love for you knows no boundaries.
8/27/2010
Calling all No. 2 Pencils - Repost
This is a repost...but with the start of school, I thought some of you might find it useful. I totally forgot about this website, and printed some new worksheets for my girls this morning! So much fun!!
Today I spotted this fabulous website on a very crafty blog called angrychicken.
What fun to have your kids learn to write and teach them to write fabulous sentences,
like the one I made my kindergartner do for me.
Go here to create your own penmanship practice fun!
Today I spotted this fabulous website on a very crafty blog called angrychicken.
What fun to have your kids learn to write and teach them to write fabulous sentences,
like the one I made my kindergartner do for me.
Go here to create your own penmanship practice fun!
8/17/2010
Fall Kick Off!!
Starts: Thursday, September 2nd
Where: The White House, Church of the Open Door
When: Every 1st & 3rd Thursday from 8:45am-11:15am.
Childcare is provided.
Where: The White House, Church of the Open Door
When: Every 1st & 3rd Thursday from 8:45am-11:15am.
Childcare is provided.
1st meeting of month:
Various guest speakers, mom testimonials, panel discussions on every thing mommy.
2nd meeting of the month:
We are going through the study Calm My Anxious Heart by Linda Dillow.
Mentor moms will then lead us in further discussion.
Mom’s Night Outs, Pint Sized Adventures and Pint Sized Park Days too!!
Various guest speakers, mom testimonials, panel discussions on every thing mommy.
2nd meeting of the month:
We are going through the study Calm My Anxious Heart by Linda Dillow.
Mentor moms will then lead us in further discussion.
Mom’s Night Outs, Pint Sized Adventures and Pint Sized Park Days too!!
8/12/2010
Nothing. Not One Thing.
Romans 8:38-49 (New King James Version) 38 For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, 39 nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
I think sometimes I forget that this is true of hurts in my life. Sins that have entangled. Things I've done. Things done to me. But God's grace, Jesus' love for me, reaches beyond all of this. Nothing can separate me from the love of God.
Nothing.
Not ANY thing.
No thing.
(Are you listening?)
No thing that you have done. No thing that has been done to you. Not ANY thing past, present or future. NOTHING. Can separate you from the love of Christ Jesus.
not. any. thing.
Ladies, He loves us. Are you hurting from the unfairness of life? Are you overwhelmed with the day to day? Is your heart broken? Let me remind you of who you are in Christ. Take a moment. Read these words and soak them in.
You have a loving Father.
You have been fearfully and wonderfully made.
He has a specific plan for your life.
You have been chosen.
And forgiven.
And bought at a price.
NOTHING can change how much you're loved.
You are worthy.
Now tell Him how much you love Him. Pour out your heart over these things and thank Him. And then go live it, my friend. Live in this place of confidence and courage to face the day. And remember.
Not. Any. Thing.
Nothing can separate you from the LOVE of God.
It's been quiet here...
over the summer...and we may have gathered a few tumbleweeds!But have no fear - GUM is coming back this FALL! Details coming soon - can't wait to fellowship with you all again soon!
7/02/2010
Fireworks Shows
Here are some local events to celebrate Independence Day...including some FREE Fireworks Show
s! Happy 4th!!
s! Happy 4th!!Events for Sunday, July 4, 2010
8am - 10pm, FREE Festival of Balloons @ South Pasadena, Celebrate with an all-day slate of events in South Pasadena. Start the day with a Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast at the Fire Station (817 Mound Ave.). Then watch the parade on MIssion Street at noon. Gates open for fireworks show at 5:00 pm at South Pasadena High School (1401 Fremont Ave.) and entertainment with music, games and bouncers for the kids begins at 5:30 pm. The fireworks from South Pasadena High School will blast off at 9:00 pm.
2pm - 10pm, Amerifest @ Rose Bowl Stadium, 1001 Rose Bowl Dr., Pasadena, Celebrate America with the biggest fireworks show in Southern California. Enjoy a full day of safe and affordable family fun with music, food and entertainment at the 84th annual 4th of July celebration at the Rose Bowl. Event Schedule: • 2:00 pm - Family Fun Festival & Food Court on Area H • 7:00 pm - Drum Corps International Performance & Military Tribute • 9:00 pm - Americafest Fireworks & by PyroSpectaculars Tickets cost $13 for adults and children 8 and over; FREE for children age 7 and under and active military with ID. Advance Tickets available at Ticketmaster 800.745.3000. For more information, call 626.577.3100 or click link.
5:00 pm - 9:30pm, FREE 4th of July Fireworks and Celebration @ Diamond Ranch High School, 21400 Pathfinder Road, Diamond Bar, Grab a blanket or beach chair and watch the night sky light up with spectacular fireworks. The patriotic event will also include live music, face painting and a special appearance by Uncle Sam on stilts and his balloonist. Admission is free and food will be available for purchase at concessions. Free parking and shuttle service will be available at the Caltrans Park n' Ride on Pathfinder Road. The fireworks show will start at 9pm sharp. For more information, call the City's Recreation Division at 909.839.7070.
7:00pm - 9:30pm, Fireworks Show and Concert @ Bonita High School Stadium, 3102 D Street, La Verne, Celebrate Independence Day with a professional fireworks show and a concert by the band "The Answer." Tickets are available at La Verne City Hall, La Verne Chamber of Commerce and Ellsworth Stationers. Ticket booth opens at 5:00 pm, gates open at 6:00 pm and the show starts at 7:00 pm. Admission price is $6 for adults and $5 for children ages 5 to 12. Children 4 and under are free. A pre-sale discount of $1 per ticket applies if purchased before July 4.
7:00pm - 9:30pm, FREE Concert, Games and Fireworks @ Suzanne Park, 625 Suzanne Rd., Walnut, Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and picnic baskets to Suzanne Park and enjoy a live band and old-fashioned picnic games at this family event. The band "Nonsense" will perform at 7:30 pm. The event will conclude with a FREE fireworks show. The best places to see the fireworks at approximately 9:00 pm are: * Suzanne Park * Walnut High School soccer fields * Suzanne Middle School fields
6/17/2010
Father's Day Flare
Okay so most guys don't really like a lot of flare - but Martha Stewart has some great labels to make those simple Father's Day gifts a little extra special.Add some of these labels to his favorite snack item, hot sauce, candy or soda can. The kids will love helping you make it extra special and dad will love it too!
Here's the labels and how to from Martha.
Happy Father's Day!
6/13/2010
VBA: JESUS - Magician or Messiah?
Okay, so some of you might not have kids old enough yet...but so you can pass it on to others, or consider coming to volunteer, here's the details!
Vacation Bible Adventure - Church of the Open Door
JESUS - Magician or Messiah?
Discovering the miracle of Jesus in a magical way.
Date: Monday through Friday, June 21st - 25th
Time: 8:30 am -12 noon (please note the new time)
Cost: $20.00 Includes: T-shirt, CD, Crafts, Snacks, Games, Activities and Closing Ceremony with special Guest Illusionists David and Teesha Laflin
Open Registration now for Children Age 4– 5th Grade
Come Monday morning and register your kids.
Or call the church office for more information, 626-914-4646.
Vacation Bible Adventure - Church of the Open DoorJESUS - Magician or Messiah?
Discovering the miracle of Jesus in a magical way.
Date: Monday through Friday, June 21st - 25th
Time: 8:30 am -12 noon (please note the new time)
Cost: $20.00 Includes: T-shirt, CD, Crafts, Snacks, Games, Activities and Closing Ceremony with special Guest Illusionists David and Teesha Laflin
Open Registration now for Children Age 4– 5th Grade
Come Monday morning and register your kids.
Or call the church office for more information, 626-914-4646.
6/07/2010
LA County Fair Fun
What??!! It's here already?Nope. We still have 88 days until the fair opens. BUT, if you and your kids would like to participate in any of the contests or programs, you need to know and think and work on the entry's now. Aren't you glad I'm compiling the info for you?
Okay - so the LACF has a whole medieval castle theme (America's Kids - A Time Long Ago) going on this year. Along with the regular food and craft entries there's a ton of stuff surrounding the medieval theme.
For full details on all the actions for kids click here. Or for the pdf version click here.
Here are a few of my favorites (and the ones my kids will be participating in):
Castle Banner or Shield - Decorate our castle walls with your family crest or other colorful and regal design on a poster board banner or shield.
Decorate a Crown - Use your imagination and a few craft supplies to design the most beautiful crown jewels you can imagine!
Read for Ride - Read stories and ride the rides at the L.A. County Fair. Bring your entry form to the America’s Kids exhibit information booth during the Fair and get free ride vouchers. (Here's some really great printable grade book report forms.)
Hope we see you at the fair!
5/28/2010
Summer Movies: AMC $1 or Free @ Regal!
La Verne Stadium 12 1950 East Foothill Boulevard La Verne ,CA 91750-3557 909-392-4894 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 06/15/2010-06/16/2010 | Tale Of Despereaux - DP (G) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| The Spy Next Door - DP (PG) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 06/22/2010-06/23/2010 | Pirates Who Don't Do Anything - DP (G) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Shorts - DP (PG) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 06/29/2010-06/30/2010 | Charlotte's Web - DP (G) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Imagine That - DP (PG) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 07/06/2010-07/07/2010 | Kit Kittredge: American Girl - DP (G) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Alvin And The Chipmunks: The Squeakquel- DP (PG) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 07/13/2010-07/14/2010 | Space Chimps - DP (G) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Aliens In The Attic - DP (PG) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 07/20/2010-07/21/2010 | Horton Hears A Who - DP (G) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Night At The Museum II - DP (PG) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 07/27/2010-07/28/2010 | Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs - DP (PG) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Where The Wilds Things Are - DP (PG) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 08/03/2010-08/04/2010 | Monsters Vs. Aliens - DP (PG) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Paul Blart: Mall Cop - DP (PG) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 08/10/2010-08/11/2010 | Hotel For Dogs - DP (PG) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Ice Age: Dawn Of The Dinosaurs - DP (PG) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
5/26/2010
4/26/2010
Here's some of my notes from what Dr. Bob Noonan, Marriage and Family Therapist & Christian Counselor shared with us last Thursday morning. If you missed it, or want to read more, pick up this book, The 7 Desires of Every Heart by Mark Laaser. Or if you'd like to meet with Bob, he has open slots and office hours at COD, if you'd like to get in touch with him you can call the church office for his number (or ask someone on the GUM leadership team).
The 7 Desires of Every Heart:
1. To be heard and understood 2. To be affirmed 3. To be blessed 4. To be safe 5. To be touched 6. To be chosen 7. To be included
A Marriage Mission Statement. Do you have one? You should! Decide what your values are and where you're going and then work on putting habits in place to live out your mission for your marriage.
Check in often - time away with your spouse preferably once a quarter but at least a couple weekends a year!
The best thing you can do for your kids is to love your husband and be loved by him.
What did Bob say that really stuck with you?
The 7 Desires of Every Heart:
1. To be heard and understood 2. To be affirmed 3. To be blessed 4. To be safe 5. To be touched 6. To be chosen 7. To be included
A Marriage Mission Statement. Do you have one? You should! Decide what your values are and where you're going and then work on putting habits in place to live out your mission for your marriage.Check in often - time away with your spouse preferably once a quarter but at least a couple weekends a year!
The best thing you can do for your kids is to love your husband and be loved by him.
What did Bob say that really stuck with you?
4/07/2010
Come to Jesus
Pastor Ed preached on Sunday about the raw, messy, glorious truth about Church of the Open Door. You can listen to it here.
Ed said, "That’s what happens in this church—failure, confusion, even sin and pain, become ways to learn God’s grace and grow in our trust of Him and one another. Healing, victories, hope, encouragement, and love are also explained by God’s grace working in this community as we grow together by trusting Him and one another."
We live in community that God's grace may abound.
I listened to this song by Chris Rice this morning. With all the hurt and pain and suffering so many are experiencing it just spoke to my heart.
Weak and wounded sinner,
Lost and left to die,
O, raise your head for love is passing by,
Come to Jesus, Come to Jesus, Come to Jesus and live.
Now your burden's lifted,
And carried far away,
And precious blood has washed the stain... so
Sing to Jesus, Sing to Jesus, Sing to Jesus and live.
And like a newborn baby,
Don't be afraid to crawl,
And remember when you walk sometimes we fall... so
Fall on Jesus, Fall on Jesus, Fall on Jesus and live.
Sometimes the way is lonely,
And steep and filled with pain,
So if your sky is dark and pours the rain... then
Cry to Jesus, Cry to Jesus, Cry to Jesus and live.
O, and when the love spills over,
And music fills the night,
And when you can't contain your joy inside... then
Dance for Jesus, Dance for Jesus, Dance for Jesus and live.
And with your final heartbeat,
Kiss the world goodbye,
Then go in peace, and laugh on glory's side... and
Fly to Jesus, Fly to Jesus, Fly to Jesus and live.
God weeps with us so that we may someday laugh with him. -Jurgen Multman
I don't know if you are laughing or weeping today, but I do know that Jesus offers resurrection power to those who believe and are willing to trust Him. Are you trusting him? Are you believing his will for you and trusting his purpose will be revealed?
God does not make mistakes. He is always loving and caring for us, no. matter. what. Jesus is looking in your heart and giving you what you need, even if its not what you want. Trust him friend. Believe in his love for you. And LIVE in it.
Jesus rose from the dead to give us new life in heaven, AND to give us the power to live His resurrection life during our years on earth! -Ed Underwood
4/03/2010
Resurrection Rolls & Cookies
Resurrection Rolls
Ingredients:
- 1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 8 large marshmallows
- Melted butter
- Cinnamon
- Sugar
Directions:
- Give each child one triangle shaped section of crescent roll. This represents the tomb.
- Each child takes one marshmallow which represents the body of Christ.
- Dip the marshmallow in the butter and roll in cinnamon and sugar mixture. This represents the oils and spices the body was anointed with upon burial.
- Lay the marshmallow on the dough and carefully wrap it around the marshmallow.
- Make sure all seams are pinched together well. (Otherwise the marshmallow will "ooze" out of the seams)
- Bake according to package directions.
- Cool.
- Break open the tomb and the body of Christ is no longer there!!
- Celebrate God's love!
4/02/2010
Good Friday Meditation
6 a.m. - Jesus Stands Trial Before Pilate
(Matthew 27:11-14; Mark 15:2-5; Luke 23:1-5; John 18:28-37) - Jesus Sent to Herod
(Luke 23:6-12)
- Jesus Returned to Pilate
(Luke 23:11) - Jesus is Sentenced to Death
(Matthew 27:26; Mark 15:15; Luke 23:23-24; John 19:16)
- Jesus is Led Away to Calvary
(Matthew 27:32-34; Mark 15:21-24; Luke 23:26-31; John 19:16-17)
The Crucifixion
9 a.m. - "The Third Hour"- Jesus is Crucified on the Cross
Mark 15: 25 - It was the third hour when they crucified him. (NIV). The third hour in Jewish time would have been 9 a.m.
Luke 23:34 - Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do now know what they are doing." (NIV)
- The Soldiers Cast Lots for Jesus' Clothing
(Mark 15:24)
- Jesus is Insulted and Mocked
Matthew 27:39-40 - And the people passing by shouted abuse, shaking their heads in mockery. "So! You can destroy the Temple and build it again in three days, can you? Well then, if you are the Son of God, save yourself and come down from the cross!"(NLT)
- Mark 15:31 - The leading priests and teachers of religious law also mocked Jesus. "He saved others," they scoffed, "but he can't save himself!"(NLT)
- Luke 23:36-37 - The soldiers mocked him, too, by offering him a drink of sour wine. They called out to him, "If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!"(NLT)
- Luke 23:39 - One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: "Aren't you the Christ? Save yourself and us!"(NIV)
- Jesus and the Criminal
Luke 23:40-43 - But the other criminal rebuked him. "Don't you fear God," he said, "since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong."
Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom."
Jesus answered him, "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise." (NIV)
- Jesus Speaks to Mary and John
John 19:26-27 - When Jesus saw his mother standing there beside the disciple he loved, he said to her, "Woman, he is your son." And he said to this disciple, "She is your mother." And from then on this disciple took her into his home. (NLT)
- Darkness Covers the Land
Mark 15:33 - At the sixth hour darkness came over the whole land until the ninth hour.(NLT)
- Jesus Cries Out to the Father
Matthew 27:46 - And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?” that is, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?”(NKJV)
- Jesus is Thirsty
John 19:28-29 - Jesus knew that everything was now finished, and to fulfill the Scriptures he said, "I am thirsty."A jar of sour wine was sitting there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put it on a hyssop branch, and held it up to his lips. (NLT)
- It is Finished
John 19:30a - When Jesus had tasted it, he said, "It is finished!" (NLT)
Luke 23:46 - Jesus called out with a loud voice, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit." When he had said this, he breathed his last. (NIV)
Following Jesus' Death
- The Earthquake
Matthew 27:51-52 - At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook and the rocks split. The tombs broke open and the bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life. (NIV)
- The Centurion - "Surely he was the Son of God!"
(Matthew 27:54; Mark 15:38; Luke 23:47) - The Soldiers Break the Thieves' Legs
(John 19:31-33) - The Soldier Pierces Jesus Side
(John 19:34) - Jesus is Laid in the Tomb
(Matthew 27:57-61; Mark 15:42-47; Luke 23:50-56; John 19:38-42)
3/29/2010
2/28/2010
Encyclopedia of Me
This poster actually hangs in my office above my desk. You can click on it to enlarge it, but first I'll apologize profusely for the image quality. Sorry, and sorry, it's late at night and it's dark and I'm too excited to post this to wait until daylight for proper lighting. Moving on.I bought it before I ever had children on one of many antique shopping days with my mom. I just love it. It's bunnykins-esque and authentically old. Anyway, I saw it and fell in love with it one day and determined it would hang in my children's nursery. But it didn't match the theme, and so loving it so much, I hung it in my office.
Kitty has a kettle. John has a jar of Jam. It makes me happy - even if they did mispell John, and used Kitty, Ann and Edward instead of some much more appealing K, A & E names - perhaps I'm biased!
So given my love for this ABC poster, I thought this idea I ran across recently sounded fun. And I think some of you will like it too!
I've seen several blogger's doing a series called "Encyclopedia of Me". As far as I can tell it started over at Bella Dia in 2007, before she became The Crafty Crow. And it's made another appearance recently.
The idea is to come up with an A-Z of you. Your daily life with your children, what makes you you, something from day to day life, it's really very open ended. Some letters might have more than one entry, some not. The original idea was to post one blog entry with the corresponding alphabetical letter each day for a month.
You know this is right up my alley! Not only would this be great for those of you who blog, but it would also work for scrapbooks for you and/or your kids; an A-Z of their school year, or just an A-Z of their personality or your family. What a great anthology!!
It's the beginning of the month, so this seemed like a good time to start. Are you with me? Let me know if this sparked some ideas of your own, or how you plan to do your own Encyclopedia of Me.
2/25/2010
Guest Speaker Summary
If you missed GUM yesterday, you missed a great time! Careth T. came and spoke to us about parenting and discipline and a whole lot rolled into one.
I personally came away refreshed and with a new sense of purpose for my parenting. Here's the things that stuck out to me:
Be a Parenting Unit!
You and your spouse are in this together. Get on the same page. Whether it takes one discussion or a whole parenting weekend - take the time, and figure out where your coming from and where your going. What do you want your children's character to look like when they are teenagers and adults?
Build a Discipline Toolbox!
Our boxes might look different, but there should be a few different consequences used for discipline. Natural consequences is one that's been in my toolbox, but I forget to use. So I'll be working on honing that skill - or I'll be calling Tim or Christy (Careth's husband and sister - Natural Consequence Thinkers Supreme!) every couple days!
Be consistent! If you say it, enforce it. Period.
Do not undermine your spouse's authority by intervening during discipline.
Evaluate each child! and discipline accordingly.
Pick your battles, based on what's really important for building charachter. Fighting over shoes or mis-matched clothes at two is likely not the battle to choose. Uh-oh. I'm sorry you all had to hear that one too, I'm pretty sure it was meant just for me. Maybe not, but I certainly heard it loud and clear.
Careth also pointed us towards Dr. Kevin Lehman in conjunction with Focus on the Family, here's some things I've been looking at following this morning.
Successfully Handle Behavior Problems This series is a review of Dr. Kevin Lehman's work by Shauna Schutte and includes 4 follow up articles on Behavior and Strategies for different age groups. (Extra: more potty training tips in the follow-up articles!!)
Focus on the Family: Effective Biblical Discipline This page is a wealth of knowledge. Creative Disciplining Ideas, Approaches to Discipline, the Strong-Willed Child and more. If you need me, I'll be camped out here for the next week or so!
Parenting Adult Children And not to leave you mentor moms out - here's some articles for parents of adult children - Lord, help me make it here one day!!
We hope to have Careth back for some follow-up Q&A time soon!
I personally came away refreshed and with a new sense of purpose for my parenting. Here's the things that stuck out to me:
Be a Parenting Unit!
You and your spouse are in this together. Get on the same page. Whether it takes one discussion or a whole parenting weekend - take the time, and figure out where your coming from and where your going. What do you want your children's character to look like when they are teenagers and adults?
Build a Discipline Toolbox!
Our boxes might look different, but there should be a few different consequences used for discipline. Natural consequences is one that's been in my toolbox, but I forget to use. So I'll be working on honing that skill - or I'll be calling Tim or Christy (Careth's husband and sister - Natural Consequence Thinkers Supreme!) every couple days!
Be consistent! If you say it, enforce it. Period.
Do not undermine your spouse's authority by intervening during discipline.
Evaluate each child! and discipline accordingly.
Pick your battles, based on what's really important for building charachter. Fighting over shoes or mis-matched clothes at two is likely not the battle to choose. Uh-oh. I'm sorry you all had to hear that one too, I'm pretty sure it was meant just for me. Maybe not, but I certainly heard it loud and clear.
Careth also pointed us towards Dr. Kevin Lehman in conjunction with Focus on the Family, here's some things I've been looking at following this morning.
Successfully Handle Behavior Problems This series is a review of Dr. Kevin Lehman's work by Shauna Schutte and includes 4 follow up articles on Behavior and Strategies for different age groups. (Extra: more potty training tips in the follow-up articles!!)
Focus on the Family: Effective Biblical Discipline This page is a wealth of knowledge. Creative Disciplining Ideas, Approaches to Discipline, the Strong-Willed Child and more. If you need me, I'll be camped out here for the next week or so!
Parenting Adult Children And not to leave you mentor moms out - here's some articles for parents of adult children - Lord, help me make it here one day!!
We hope to have Careth back for some follow-up Q&A time soon!
2/09/2010
A recipe
Today was cold! So cold that I had to bump my heat up. And turn on the oven. And then I wanted to bake something. You know, so I could use the oven to heat the house AND eat something yummy. But I was at a loss for something to bake. I bake a lot and I didn't want to make french bread or muffins or brownies or cake. Those things just seemed blah to me today (for shame, I know!). I need something that would last a while, and warm my heart.
Anyway, so I pulled out a couple of my cookbooks to look for recipes. I ended up reading my entire (yes, ENTIRE) 298 page, Flavors from the Foothills, Church of the Open Door Women's Ministry cookbook, circa 1992. There are some really fabulous recipes in there!! What was super fun, was I knew a lot of the women who contributed the recipes, like mentor mom emeritus Patti A.!
I didn't find the recipe my tummy might have been longing for. But the following recipe caught my heart and spurred the urge to write this post (before I head to my bed to snuggle down under the covers and watch a movie). It was exactly what I needed and I hope it warms your heart too!
RECIPE FOR RAISING CHILDREN
pg 233, Anonymous
Start with one child. (In case of twins, double recipe. For triplets, triple recipe.)
Gather equal parts of Love and Security.
Have on hand Discipline, Understanding, Patience and Togetherness.
Note: This recipe takes many years to complete.
Blend together Love and Security and apply it directly to the child. As the mixture is being raised, sprinkle on Understanding and Patience. As needed, fold in Discipline, but make sure the mixture is consistent. Too little may make the mixture thin and weak - too much may make it thick and stubborn. Continually roll the mixture in Togetherness. This keeps it from sticking to bad influences.
When this is completed, there will be no need to bake it. It will be ready to serve.
[italic's editors note]
Anyway, so I pulled out a couple of my cookbooks to look for recipes. I ended up reading my entire (yes, ENTIRE) 298 page, Flavors from the Foothills, Church of the Open Door Women's Ministry cookbook, circa 1992. There are some really fabulous recipes in there!! What was super fun, was I knew a lot of the women who contributed the recipes, like mentor mom emeritus Patti A.!
I didn't find the recipe my tummy might have been longing for. But the following recipe caught my heart and spurred the urge to write this post (before I head to my bed to snuggle down under the covers and watch a movie). It was exactly what I needed and I hope it warms your heart too!
RECIPE FOR RAISING CHILDREN
pg 233, Anonymous
Start with one child. (In case of twins, double recipe. For triplets, triple recipe.)
Gather equal parts of Love and Security.
Have on hand Discipline, Understanding, Patience and Togetherness.
Note: This recipe takes many years to complete.
Blend together Love and Security and apply it directly to the child. As the mixture is being raised, sprinkle on Understanding and Patience. As needed, fold in Discipline, but make sure the mixture is consistent. Too little may make the mixture thin and weak - too much may make it thick and stubborn. Continually roll the mixture in Togetherness. This keeps it from sticking to bad influences.
When this is completed, there will be no need to bake it. It will be ready to serve.
[italic's editors note]
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