The Sojourner Six

Gideon's Tooth Story

2010-10-15T20:18:00.002-05:00

Once upon a time, there was a cavity. Then hygiene was born! Then the hygiene was sneaking up on the cavity while it was eating a tooth. And then, he was about to kill him, and he said *singing*, "Why can't we be friends? Why can't we be friends? Why can't we be friends?"
And then he threw his spear back (this is in the future). And then the cavity grabbed it & threw it at him and then someone walked up and had a sign that said, "You splattered him!"
And then he pulled out the spear and then used it to break out all the teeth.
The End

Fa la la la la la la la la. La. La. La.

2009-12-17T15:43:00.002-06:00

Let me just start by saying that I love, love, love my favorite radio station, KLTY. And I love Christmas music as much as the next person. However, beginning the day after Thanksgiving until the day after Christmas (except for Sunday morning), KLTY ONLY plays Christmas music. And they have "preview weekends" before Thanksgiving.
Here's the problem: every recording artist seems to think they need to release a Christmas album. Result: approximately 256 million versions of the same 20 songs. So, being bored with the whole situation, I've decided to present you with the 1st Annual Christmas Song Egg Nog Awards. Why Egg Nog? I just like saying nog.
Here we go:
Best Version of "White Christmas": Bing Crosby (no brainer)
Best Version of "O Holy Night": Celine Dion
Best Version of "Ave Maria": Jaci Velasquez
Best Version of "Santa Claus is Coming to Town": Gene Autry
Best Version of "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas": The Carpenters
Best Version of "Adeste Fideles (O Come All Ye Faithful)": Luciano Pavarotti
Best Version of "The Christmas Song": (tie) Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole
Best Version of "I'll Be Home for Christmas": (tie) Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra
Best Version of "Blue Christmas": Elvis Presley
Best Version of "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree": Brenda Lee
Song mostly likely to make a good voice sound slammin': (tie) "O Holy Night", "What Child Is This"
Best Lyrics: "Sweet Little Jesus Boy"
Song most likely to make you cry like a baby: "Christmas Shoes"
Dumbest Lyric: (tie) "With a tail as big as a kite"-Do You Hear What I Hear? (They were really struggling to find a rhyme there.), "There'll be scary ghost stories"-It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year (Do people really tell ghost stories on Christmas?)
Song Least Likely To Make You Think of Jesus at Christmas Time: "O Christmas Tree"
Song Most Likely To Make You Think of Jesus at Christmas Time: "Mary Did You Know?"
Best Song for a Choir: "Carol of the Bells"
Song Most Likely to Make You Spit On Your Neighbor: "All I Want for Christmas is my Two Front Teeth"
Best Song for Testing Lung Capacity: "Angels We Have Heard On High"
Most Depressing Christmas Song: "Please Come Home for Christmas" (Lyric-"I have no friends". How sad is that?)
Song Most Likely To Make You Get Up & Dance: "Linus & Lucy"
So, what do you think? Add to my list and comment. Feel free to disagree with me. You'll be wrong of course, but knock yourselves out. :)

A + B = Purple

2009-10-27T16:25:00.009-05:00

Before I write, a disclaimer. If you want to read a nice story with a happy ending, this is not for you. No poetry or allegories today. I am writing about harsh reality. And I'm angry.
See that boy in the picture? That's my brother, Marvin. I could write to you about his intelligence, his sense of humor, or his compassion. I could tell you about the times we played together as children, and how he played games with my children. Instead, I'm going to tell you about the end of his life. How he was ripped from this life in violence, wounding us with pain that never heals.
Marvin was an addict. Self-medicating from an early age, hoping to numb himself against emotional pain. Always feeling isolated, always feeling unwanted and unloved. Despite all the love poured out on him by his family, he never let go of the sense of abandonment caused by being adopted. Any painful experience-being bullied at school, financial hardship, or personal slight was added to the bank of pain inside his heart. No amount of love and encouragement would empty that bank. After our (adopted) mother died, there was no way to even get close.
So, you say, there are ways to deal with an addict. Tough love. OK. Intervention. Right. If you add A to B, you're supposed to get C, right? Wrong. When you are dealing with an addict, adding A to B might get you purple. There was no mention of that in the intervention information. That there is no logic. An addict has to hit bottom to get help. Really? Sometimes they hit bottom and they die. That doesn't do much for their recovery, does it? It's hard to live with an addict. It's even harder to live without one.
My brother committed suicide at the age of 27. Alone. It was by far the worst thing that has ever happened to me. My children have had to sit in the front row of a church, with the uncle they loved laid out in a casket in front of them. I have heard the anguish of a father who has had to go identify his son's body. I've gone from "family member of an addict" to "suicide survivor". And I have lived through a depression that I never before thought possible.
And here's what I know now:
Sometimes you can do everything right, and things can still go horribly wrong.
Hindsight is painful.
Control is an illusion.
Holding tight to God is the only way to survive. I think that God doesn't expect us to do "great" things during an attack. Coming through a storm with your faith intact is the real victory.

Squeezing Washington in the Laundry Room

2009-06-02T09:56:00.008-05:00

With help from my favorite 6 year old, we made our first batch of homemade laundry soap. Its working title is "Mama Tarron's Homemade Clothes Washin' Substance".

I have to give props to my homesteading friend Tonye, who gave me the idea in the first place.

Before I give you the recipe, here is the break down of the cost. Note: these numbers are approximate, so don't go commenting on my math.

The recipe yesterday made nearly 3 gallons of soap, or approximately 147 loads of laundry.

I usually buy "all" detergent, which is consistenly about $4 for 32 loads. Cost for appr. 147 loads=$18.36, cost per load=$.13.

I used soap I already had, but if I had to buy it, I would probably buy Ivory @ about $1 a bar. A box of Borax and a box of Arm & Hammer washing soda, about $3 each. The recipe uses 2 cups of each of these, which brings the total for this recipe to $2.50, plus water. Cost per load-$.02.

It took me about 15 mins. to do this, once I had all the ingredients ready. I saved $15.86, which means I made about $1 a minute, or $60 an hour. Not bad at all.

Note: I saved plastic detergent bottles to put this stuff in, but you can just leave it in the bucket, covered. Putting it in a bottle with a lid makes it easier, because you have to shake or stir it before you use it. One site I read said that you can add essential oils to the mix for fragrance, and I will probably try that next time.

By the way, this is a great lesson in math & liquid measurement for all you homeschoolers.

Try it & let me know what you think!

Recipe #1

1 quart Water (boiling)
2 cups Bar soap (grated)
2 cups Borax
2 cups Washing Soda

Add finely grated bar soap to the boiling water and stir until soap is melted. You can keep on low heat until soap is melted.
Pour the soap water into a large, clean pail and add the Borax and Washing Soda. Stir well until all is dissolved.
Add 2 gallons of water, stir until well mixed.
Cover pail and use 1/4 cup for each load of laundry. Stir the soap each time you use it (will gel)

2009 Congressional Agenda

2009-02-24T10:32:00.005-06:00

Since Congress obviously has this financial crisis well in hand, let's move on to other important issues. We all know that in their capable hands, we will have a budget surplus in no time.
Therefore, as a taxpayer, I feel it is my duty to set their agenda for the next year. They've been working so hard, I figure they could use the help.

1. Appoint Oprah Winfrey as Secretary of State. Oprah obviously knows everything about everything, and already has most of America under her power. Were she to take her show on the road (so to speak), America would achieve world dominance in record time. Besides, Hillary needs to stay home & keep an eye on Bill.

2. Establish an IRS task force to investigate flying Wal-Mart sacks. Every time the wind blows, they are everywhere-an airborne menace. This is just a way for Wal-Mart to get free advertising without paying tax.

3. Immediately ban the sale of so-called 'Athlete's Foot' remedies. The name implies that only athletes can use the product. This is discrimination against non-athletic Americans.

4. All school children must be imprinted with bar codes. These can be used in conjunction with metal detectors at the school, which will be linked to a federal database. This will make public school funding faster and more efficient.

5. Appoint Bernie Madoff sole trustee in charge of distributing money from the bailout package.

6. Issue butterfly nets to all American citizens. These nets can be used to catch carbon emissions, which will then be sent to Al Gore to be recycled into toilet paper.

7. Establish the American Auto Manufacturer's CEO Vacation Fund. These hard working individuals have sacrificed their private jets, so this would help them to maintain their standard of living. It would be funded by the unemployment benefits of furloughed workers.

8. All commercial and household use of ice should be strictly prohibited. All available ice will be taken to repair the polar ice caps.

9. Food that will be consumed by the American public should first be sent through a Chinese processing facility. This will ensure that our food supply contains the level of melamine recommended by the FDA.

10. In addition, all American toy manufacturers must complete a course of instruction produced by the Chinese government on how to lower production costs through the use of lead.

After these suggestions are implemented (by next week, at the latest), Congress will be free to take a taxpayer funded vacation for the rest of the year.

Gideonese, Lesson 2 (Phrases & Sentences)

2009-01-27T10:05:00.003-06:00

And now, for Lesson 2 in Gideonese, phrases and sentences. These are sure to impress your friends and cause gross mental confusion.

Most Agobiness
Translation-"Almost Godliness", from a line in Ratatouille.
No way, Hose B
Translation-"No way, Jose" (that one makes me giggle)
They'll all be crying in their sockies!
Translation-"They'll be crying in their sake", from a line in M*A*S*H.
Expect your others!
Translation-"Respect your elders."

I thought I should make a record of these things, because Gideon is beginning to assimilate into complete American English. I must say I'm a bit saddened by this. I can only hope that Gideonese doesn't suffer the same fate as Latin, Aramaic & the U.S. Constitution. But I digress....

In other kid news:
During history last week, I noticed Hannah flattening a piece of paper to the mattress. (Yes, we were having history in bed, under the warm blankets.) When I inquired, she showed me the paper. It was a dry cleaner's tag that read "Hand Press Only". History was temporarily suspended while the teacher regained composure.
I must tell you that Hannah gave me permission to share that little episode.

Kid Quotes 5

2008-12-19T20:26:00.004-06:00

Scene: Hannah is reading ingredients for maple syrup from a cookbook.

Mom-"Wouldn't it be easier to go buy syrup?"

Hannah-"You have to learn to make things on your own. That way you don't have to depend on the economy."

Mom-"Did you hear that from us or TV?"

Hannah-"News. They show a lot of crazy things while you're waiting for the weather."

Scene: Gabriel is getting ready for basketball practice.

Mom-"Are you excited about basketball?"

Gabriel-"Duh. I got mad skills."

Scene: Samuel is in Dad's lap, inspecting him for some kind of imaginary job.

Samuel-"No dirt, moustache, not too much bald spot, unibrow. You're hired. I like you kind of people."

Scene: Family in the living room, watching TV. All is quiet.

Gideon-(shouting) "Can't you make those Christmas lights stop flashing?!? They're driving me nuts!"

Kid Quotes 4

2008-12-11T01:38:00.004-06:00

Hannah-"I can't remember all these stinkin' Caesars. I'm just gonna call them the Salad Family."

(Mom walks into the room to tuck Samuel into bed. The blankets are arranged into a rounded structure with walls.)
Mom-"What is that, a nest?"
Samuel-"No, it's my fortress."
Mom-"Oh, ok. Do you really need a fortress for sleeping?"
Samuel-"It's my fortress of solitude."

(With Christmas approaching, Gabriel is trying to learn to wrap his own gifts. Wrapping them is not a problem. Making the packages look like the ones on TV is a constant source of frustration.)
Gabriel-"I can't get this right! The stupid tape keeps getting messed up!"
Mom-"Keep trying. Here-I'll fix the tape for you."
Gabriel-(sigh) "Can't you wrap a Christmas present without all this chaos?"

Dad-"Is forklift one word or two?"
Mom-"One."
Gideon-"Where did it go?"
Mom-"Where did what go?"
Gideon-"His fork. When it left, where did it go?"

12/8/77-10/26/05

2008-12-08T23:51:00.007-06:00

Strange how living with a volcano can force you to walk on eggshells.
I wish so many things now, but most of all, I wish I had understood in time. In reality, I gained my understanding too late-in a letter.
What we really needed, I think, was the bomb squad. There was so much inside-so much pain and anger-with no pressure valve. I know that scared you. It scared me too. What would have happened if you had opened up? Could it be contained? Would it be worth the risk of injury?
Such a fragile situation. Sometimes it seems better to keep the cap on it in the effort to keep everything contained. Stay calm and detached. Self medicate until you can't feel anymore, and most of all, don't let anything push you too far.
Unfortunately, the volcano can't stand the pressure forever. Even when the volcano implodes on itself, there is collateral damage.
I am so sorry, baby brother, that I understood too late. I'm sorry I couldn't make the pain go away. I would've taken it for you if I could. I'm sorry that all the things I knew to do weren't what you needed. Most of all, I'm sorry you're not here.
I love you, and I will miss you forever.

12/8/77-10/26/05

2008-10-26T22:58:00.005-05:00

I'm Not Who I Was by Brandon Heath

I wish you could see me now
I wish I could show you how
I'm not who I was
I used to be mad at you
A little on the hurt side too
But I'm not who I was

I found my way around
To forgiving you
Some time ago
But I never got to tell you so

I found us in a photograph
I saw me and I had to laugh
You know, I'm not who I was
You were there, you were right above me
And I wonder if you ever loved me
Just for who I was

When the pain came back again
Like a bitter friend
It was all that I could do
To keep myself from blaming you

I reckon it's a funny thing
I figured out I can sing
Now I'm not who I was
I write about love and such
Maybe 'cause I want it so much
I'm not who I was

I was thinking maybe I
I should let you know
I am not the same
But I never did forget your name
Hello

Well the thing I find most amazing
In amazing grace
Is the chance to give it out
Maybe that's what love is all about

I wish you could see me now
I wish I could show you how
I'm not who I was

Meineke and the Cheese Brain

2008-10-10T03:02:00.002-05:00

Since I don't play video games, the boys really like for me to watch them play. This is a great source of entertainment around here. Such was the case this evening. The littles had gone to bed, Hannah was on the computer, and Samuel wanted me to watch him play Star Wars.
He was showing me all the different characters, especially the creepy robot one that I don't really like.
Sam-"Watch how he runs. He's fast. Thunk, thunk, thunk."
Mom-"He has a hard time stopping, doesn't he? He keeps running into things."
Sam-"Yeah, he really needs Meineke."

Gideon has a cheese brain. He has explained this to me in great detail. He has a God brain, and that's the one that tells him to do good things. And then there's the cheese brain. The cheese brain is the part that tries to get him to do bad things. The devil has something to do with this cheesy process, apparently.
So when he does something wrong, he will invariably smack himself in the forehead & say, "There goes my cheese brain again!"

GET OFF THE TRACK! THE TRAIN IS COMING!

2008-10-03T02:36:00.002-05:00

What would you do if someone were standing on the train track, and a train was coming? Yeah, me too. But what if the person refused to move? What if they were determined to stand there on the tracks, the train bearing down on them? Maybe you would grab them and try to move them physically. But you can't. You can only stand and watch in horror as the inevitable happens.
Such is the way of addiction.
Once addiction has taken hold of a person, there is a lot of waiting and watching. It is excruciating. You can counsel, urge, cajole, threaten, give ultimatums and offer all manner of rewards. You can even physically force a person into rehab facilities. But ultimately, you have no control. The person in the grip of the addiction must choose if their life is worth saving.
Once you have surrendered control, you often wonder what it will take for the person to make a decision. When will it happen? What will that situation be like? Will they be thinking clearly at that moment, or will they even survive?
While you are waiting for this moment of truth, what do you do? Do you pretend that everything is fine, so that they feel loved? Do you try to make them as uncomfortable as possible until they choose treatment? Do you ignore them completely because it is easier?
I do not have the answers to these questions. One thing I know: only treatment or death awaits the addict. There are no other choices.
Of Satan's many snares, this is the one that baffles me most. Even when it doesn't live in your house, addiction has long arms that can hurt those who are far away.

Home, Sweet Home

2008-09-28T00:22:00.005-05:00

Here are some pictures of the new outside home for Squirtle, Samuel's turtle.
Squirtle is a red-eared slider that Samuel has raised from a baby. He was a little larger than a silver dollar when we brought him home. He is now as big as a dinner plate, and is overdue for the move to the great outdoors.
So, for my birthday, we created this outdoor "habitat" for Squirtle. "Habitat" is what you call your pet's space when your house is actually a zoo. If we start adopting larger animals, we will need to start calling them "enclosures".
Now he has lots of room to swim around and places for sitting in the sun. He's gone all native on us, only coming out to eat. He heads for the safety of the water when anyone is around. He's acting like..................a turtle. And that's just fine with us.

Kid Quotes 3

2008-09-24T22:51:00.002-05:00

While watching Dancing with the Stars.....
Hannah: "He's the mambo king. Living in his mambo world. Where they eat mambojalaya."

Mom: "Here. Try these on."
Samuel: "I don't want them!"
Mom: "They're Levis!"
Samuel: "I don't care who Levi is! He can keep his pants!"

More Dancing with the Stars. The 'Baby Got Back' number.
Gabriel: "Now that's just plain sick!"

At bedtime....
Mom: "Your bed looks nice."
Gideon: "Yes. Be very careful. I put a lot of effort into this."

Kid Quotes 2

2008-09-22T21:38:00.004-05:00

Gary, this first one is for you. :)

Hannah-"When we ask God to forgive us, does He really?"
Mom-"Yeah, 'cause that's how He rolls."
Hannah-"In the 8-1-Heaven."

Mom-"You're all in trouble, and you're all grounded."
Gabriel-"I didn't make a bad choice! I'm not in trouble!"
Samuel-"You weren't even there, because you're already grounded!"
Gabriel-"I know."

Dentist-"I'll let you play with the puzzles, and long as you don't fight. You don't ever fight, do you?"
Gabriel-"Sometimes we do. It's kind of our thing."

Mom-"You're inside already? I thought you wanted to play outside."
Gideon-"I decided to come in. Know why?"
Mom-"Why?"
Gideon-"I'm having a little bit of a bad day. People keep being mean to me. I think we both need a nap."

Squeezing Washington, Part 1

2008-09-20T19:30:00.003-05:00

Since I can't load pictures right now (grrrr), I thought I would start a series on how to save some cash. Everyone can use that, right?
My Daddy says about my Mom that she could squeeze a dollar so much that Washington's eyes would pop out. Let's see if we can do it too.
Let's start with the gas for your car. It always helps to cut that cost a little.
I actually started thinking about this after watching a NASCAR race. I figured if they were racing 190 mph, and can save enough gas to avoid a pit stop and finish the race, why can't I do that? And what do you know, there is actually a name for it. It's called hyper-miling.
We can't control the gas prices, but we can control the way we drive. And hyper-miling is all about science-using inertia, gravity and centrifugal force to your advantage. As an added bonus for home school families, it can be turned into a cool science lesson.
Since highway miles are at a nearly constant speed, these tips won't help much on the highway. Driving in town, it's like gold.
Your car uses the most fuel going up through the gear box-especially taking off from a complete stop. My friends, you must be gentle with the accelerator. As un-cool as this is, it will save you some cash.
Next is the law of inertia. Once the vehicle is moving at your required speed, take your foot of the throttle. See how long you can coast without losing speed. It may surprise you.
Now for gravity. Most places are not completely flat (isn't God good to us?). Even a slight change in elevation can help you pick up speed without using the gas pedal.
Centrifugal force can be used in curves to pick up speed as well. You have to use some common sense here. The idea is to save gas, not to throw people and objects across the roadway.
Another cool science tidbit-applying the brake pedal causes friction, which will reduce the force of inertia on your vehicle. Don't use the brakes needlessly, but by all means, use them when necessary.
If you have a gauge that shows your mileage in real-time, this is helpful in hyper-miling. However, if you spend all your time looking at the gauge, you will have more problems than just gas mileage.
I have increased my average gas mileage by at least 5 mpg. Not a lot, but I'm still working on it, and every little bit helps.
Locals-see if you can beat me. Turn from Granbury onto Wardville. Get to 30 mph before Pizza Hut. I can coast at 30 all the way to Main St. If you can catch the green light, maybe you can go farther! Let me know.

In Defense of Freaks, Part 2

2008-09-18T15:41:00.002-05:00

The last time I addressed this subject, I came to the defense of Jesus Freaks. This time, I am defending another type of freak-the home school family.
Last night, my daughter had her first debate about home schooling. I must say, she conducted herself admirably. Honestly, this exchange bothered me more than it bothered her. Mainly because I thought we were past all this. It seems that the only anti-home school holdouts are the NEA. Of course, home schools are a threat to their livelihood. They have reason to fear. Home schooling is growing at a national average of about 10%.
Here's the gist of the conversation:

Friend-"Why are you home schooled? Public school is so much better!"
Hannah-"What's better about it?"
Friend-"Home schoolers don't have any friends." (This is Hannah's friend speaking. Duh.)
Hannah-"I have a lot of friends."
Friend-"Home schoolers aren't socialized." (I wonder where she heard this?)
Hannah-"I go to a fine arts school with lots of kids." (Over 500)
Friend-"I've already learned 3 notes in band."
Hannah-"I'm trying out for Honor Band next semester." (Hannah's band class meets for band for 2 hours, once a week. Public school band meets every day.)
Friend-"We're going on a field trip to Bass Hall next week."
Hannah-"We went twice last week."
Friend-"Home schoolers don't have as many activities."
Hannah-"I have church stuff, band, drama, horse riding lessons and I'm in Honor Choir."

Note that I am not condemning anyone for their family's educational choice. I am defending the choice of our family to home school.
The tired argument that home schoolers aren't socialized is just insane. The only "socialization" that my kids are missing is the kind I don't want them to have. Not just the bullying and mean-spirited behavior that I remember from institutionalized school, but being exposed to adult subject matter at an early age.
Another matter is the worldly outlook that public schools are forced to observe. Refusal to teach intelligent design as an alternative to evolution, reluctance to teach purity until marriage, acceptance of alternative lifestyles, etc., etc., etc.
I am in no way blaming school employees for this state of affairs. It is the system that I believe is broken. Government education, just like any other government program, has grown into a beast that feeds on itself. If it were shut down tomorrow, it would devastate our economy. Public education is big business. A majority of property tax goes to public schools, and yet it never seems to be enough. A home school family can provide an excellent education for a fraction of the cost. What is wrong here?
I know very few "bad" teachers or administrators. They are working in a system that has been mismanaged terribly. It has become very much about test scores and preparing adults that will support the economy. The joy of learning is no longer encouraged in teacher or student. The celebration of an inquisitive nature is quickly sacrificed in the noble quest for conformity.
No one knows children like their parents do. No one loves, nor has the vested interest that we have in our children. We know their strengths and weaknesses. A teacher with 20 students does not have time to understand my child that well, nor would I expect them to.
I can tutor them at their own pace. I can let them soar in their strengths and support them in their weaknesses. "No child gets left behind." We have a more flexible schedule, we are able to take advantage of "teachable moments", we can decide to go the science museum in the middle of the day while we're learning about dinosaurs! I could go on and on. The benefits of home schooling are limitless.
It has been said, "Public schools need Christian kids." Maybe so, but I am not willing to sacrifice my children on the altar of a system that is no longer functioning properly.

Kid Quotes

2008-09-11T15:21:00.003-05:00

Hannah-"OK, we're going to have to evacuate. I think Arkansas will be far enough."

Mom-"Alright, you're getting an extra chore for that."
Samuel-"That's it! I'm giving you guys a horrible mention!" (That is the opposite of an honorable mention.)

Mom-"Now what does the red light mean?"
Gabriel-"Stop."
Mom-"What about the green light?"
Gabriel-"Go."
Mom-"Do you know what the yellow light means?"
Gabriel-"That means you stop for gas & tires."

Gideon-"I think I'm going to be an Army man when I grow up."
Mom-"That's a brave job."
Gideon-"I'm going to try to defend our country."
Hannah-"You're going to be an Army man?"
Gideon-"Yes, I'm going to try to protect our country. Now just be quiet about it."

Pictures from The Promise

2008-09-06T10:27:00.026-05:00

Here is Jesus' birth. Brittany is up top on the left. Her brunette twin, Leigh, is on the right. Gabriel is in the middle, but I don't know his name in real life. Hannah Midkiff is opening the door on the left!
Little Yeshua (Aaron). He did a wonderful job!
Jesus on the left, John the Baptist on the right. I told Jesus after the show that we were best friends, so he should know who I am. He said, "I remember talking to you earlier today. You pray a lot." :)
Jesus getting baptized. Yes, they have a river. Awesome!
This is Satan (Blare), sitting in a tree, watching Jesus & eating an apple. I thought this turned out less fuzzy. Sorry Blare.
This is Satan. I can't remember what scene this is (help?). Obviously, something bad was happening, or he wouldn't have been there.
The last supper. There's a really beautiful song in this scene.
Jesus before Pilate. Did I mention there are live animals in this show? Roman soldiers on horses, a camel, sheep, doves, donkeys (that sometimes bite). Awesome!
The crucifixion. Satan is hanging out on the steps in front, all creepy. Blake is the thief on the right, I think.
Resurrection! Jesus banished Satan in this scene, and everyone cheered.
And there He goes, up into Heaven! Sorry about the blurriness. He was flying.
Curtain call! Giving it all back to God.
David-cutest drummer boy in town.
Benjamin-always smiling. A great actor, and an excellent scribe.
Brittany-told you she was an angel. :)
Debra-Mama of the clan, and an excellent singer.
Aaron-Little Yeshua. He did a great job!
Hannah Beth-always so happy, and a great dancer. Actually, she's good at everything.
My kids with Satan? A little creepy. Actually, Blare is just about the nicest guy ever.
Caleb-also a talented Midkiff. A great young actor-maybe Billy next year?
Satan & an angel.........hmmm. Two of the most talented people I know, but most importantly, they love God.
One thing I noticed last night was that during the beginning of the show, there was a lot of clapping. But as the show went along, there was less of that. The audience was so involved in the story that they weren't thinking about the actors anymore. Mission accomplished.
The story of Jesus is like that. The only Son of God, willing to leave Heaven and become a man, suffering so incredibly in death, and finally being raised by the power of God. Just so that we could be with Him forever. What an amazing story.

The Promise!!!

2008-09-06T09:47:00.007-05:00

Here we are, waiting for the show to begin...........
We went to see The Promise last night. If you've never seen it, it is hands down the most amazing show I have ever seen. This is our second year to see it, and it gets better every year. Our good friends, Blare McClure, who plays Satan, and Brittany Coddington, who is an angel (on stage and in real life), invited us.
We also have another group of friends in the production-the Midkiff family. Debra (singer & towns person), Hannah (singer, angel & dancer), Aaron (little Yeshua), Caleb (singer & towns person), Ben (king's assistant) and little David (drummer boy). Brittany's brother, Blake, was also in the show (and did an amazing job). He was Lazarus and a thief on the cross.
The show was AMAZING! I cried. I cried before the show, when they had a tribute to the military. I cried when Jesus showed up, I cried every time Jesus did something cool (which happens quite a bit), the resurrection, everything. I also booed Satan. Heehee. Anyway.........
The Promise is the story of the life of Jesus. It follows the Biblical account very well, beginning with the prophets that foretold the coming of Jesus, and ending with His ascension into Heaven. Visually, it is stunning. The acting, singing, and dancing are all outstanding. As for the story, well, you can't go wrong with good material. :)
We have already decided to audition as a family next summer. If you have a gift for performing, I can't think of a better way to use them for God's glory than this show.
I'm going to post more pictures in a separate blog. You can also see pictures from last year's performance on their website.

A New Reason for Therapy

2008-09-02T22:51:00.003-05:00

Hello, my name is Donna, and I am a box-aholic. I wasn't born this way, it's my choice. I call it an "alternative lifestyle".
Selling things on Ebay can lead you to this type of lifestyle. It starts out small, saving a box here and there for shipping. Before you know it, you're scanning for "good" boxes everywhere. Suddenly, everything in your house that was once in a box is without one. You get a gift in the mail, and you say, "That's nice, but look at this great box!"
At first, you may try to hide the boxes. But after a while, it's useless, and you know it. You've passed the point of no return. You'll think, "Yes, it may look like I'm getting ready to move cross-country. You may even think I'm crazy. But I don't care! I just love boxes!"
This can also lead to other related lifestyles, such as obsessions dealing with the United States Postal Service, but I'll save that discussion for another day.

Pint-Sized Entomologist Makes Discovery!

2008-09-01T15:31:00.005-05:00

Thanks to my Superman husband, I now have a tiny pond in my front yard. This pond is to be a future habitat for Samuel's turtle, who has grown from the size of a silver dollar as a newborn to the size of a dinner plate at seven.
Anyway, we were outside watering. In Texas, this is a popular hobby. The boys were with me, looking at the pond, when they discovered a dead bug. Good home school family that we are, we launch into a discussion about jewel beetles.
Suddenly, Gideon says, "Let's do CPR!" The rest of his medical team decide this is a wise course of treatment for the jewel beetle. I don't have to tell you what happened next. Had the jewel beetle been alive, he didn't stand a chance against this kind of malpractice.
Samuel said, "Ewwww! Mom look! He has white blood!"
In a serious tone, Gideon says, "Those are his white blood cells. That's probably what killed him."

Things Overhead During A Wrestling Match

2008-08-31T17:44:00.003-05:00

Gideon-"Oh, you hurt my nose!"
Gabriel-"Already?"
Gideon-"No blood. I'm good."

Gideon-"Don't make me go all Chinese on you!"

Gabriel-"Meet my muscles-Fred and Fredrick."
Gideon-"Hello, Cedric."
Gabriel-"No! Fredrick!"

Gideon-"Don't make me put you inside the TV."
Samuel-"Quit that! It's gonna cut off your circulation!"
Gideon-"What's a circle-lation?"Samuel-(spins him in a circle)"That's what it is!"

Missing Marvin

2008-08-31T17:38:00.002-05:00

Originally Posted 8/20/08

How To Save A Life by The Fray
Step one you say we need to talk
He walks you say sit down it's just a talk
He smiles politely back at you
You stare politely right on through
Some sort of window to your right
As he goes left and you stay right
Between the lines of fear and blame
You begin to wonder why you came

CHORUS:Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life

Let him know that you know best
Cause after all you do know best
Try to slip past his defense
Without granting innocence
Lay down a list of what is wrong
The things you've told him all along
And pray to God he hears you
And pray to God he hears you

CHORUS:Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life

As he begins to raise his voice
You lower yours and grant him one last choice
Drive until you lose the road
Or break with the ones you've followed
He will do one of two things
He will admit to everything
Or he'll say he's just not the same
And you'll begin to wonder why you came

CHORUS:Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life

CHORUS:Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life
How to save a life
How to save a life

CHORUS:Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life

CHORUS:Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life
How to save a life

The Real Winners

2008-08-31T17:35:00.001-05:00

Originally Posted 8/16/08

We had a hard time getting home from Bible study Wednesday night.
Usually, when we can get the kids gathered together at the same time, we tell them it's time to go. Then the boys race to the car. This time, things were different.
Because they are racing and I'm not, I reach the door several minutes after they do. I walked out the door expecting to see them waiting for me at the van. They weren't there. They were standing at various distances from the van. Just standing there in the parking lot.
I was at the same time confused and intrigued. I said to them, "What are you doing? Let's go!" Samuel said to me, "But Mom! He who is first shall be last, and he who is last shall be first!"
Obviously, I couldn't argue with this. He had the Biblical advantage on me. So, I decided to be first (or last), so we could get in the van and go home.
"For the last shall be first, and the first last; for many called, but few are chosen." Matthew 20:16

Unfair

2008-08-31T17:33:00.000-05:00

Originally Posted 4/29/08

Death is inconsiderate.
It always takes one who is loved. The departed one is always a son or daughter, mother or father, sister or brother, cousin or friend.
The roots of humankind are tangled and tightly woven together.
Death gives no consideration to the ones who are disrupted when one is ripped away.
The empty spot is never filled. It is left as a memorial to the utter significance of the loss. It is a wound that never heals. It only callouses a little, in an effort to protect the ones who are left behind.

A Genius Discovery

2008-08-31T17:31:00.001-05:00

Orignially Posted 4/22/08

Disclaimer: I do not in any way condone, or otherwise allow this type of behavior in my home. Rest assured that once I stopped laughing, I put a stop to it right away.
I walked into the room to find Samuel with Gabriel's hair in one hand, and Gideon's hair in the other.
I said (in a stern, yet puzzled voice), "Samuel, let go of your brothers!"
He said, "Mom, these are my bells! Watch!"
Sure enough, when he pulled Gabriel's hair, he yelled in one note. When he pulled Gideon's hair, he yelled in a completely different pitch.
My son, the musical genius.

Long Overdue

2008-08-31T17:24:00.000-05:00

Originally Posted 4/12/08
Sometimes in life, some things are so painful that you just can't face them for a while. Then, when you are ready, you come back to them-in small doses. Such is the case with this story.I was in denial. The strange thing is, is this was a death I was expecting. Nevertheless, I was stalling for time. It took me longer than usual to get ready-longer than usual to leave the house-longer than usual to do everything. As a result, we were almost late for the funeral.Let me back up a little.
Just a few weeks before, I was lavished with a gift that I can only describe as God-given. I was given a few precious hours. Hours in which to see a loving look between a mother and a daughter. Hours to hear that beautiful laugh one more time. Most precious, however, was that I got to hear-"You have done well. I am very pleased with you." That is a treasure that I will hold in my heart forever.
Back to the funeral. We were exhausted. I couldn't sleep the night before, and Brandon had worked all night. By the grace of God, we managed to get there just in time, and were seated at the back of the auditorium.
The moment we arrived, I knew I was in serious trouble. My "grace under pressure" act was not going to work for me today. I saw the building where I had spent so many hours-where I had literally grown up-the building that she had helped decorate-and I could barely hold back the tears.
I did my best to listen to the sermon. And then I heard him say, "She knew that she wouldn't be a preacher, so she did the next best thing. She taught young women to be wives and mothers." At this point, I had to stop listening. I was about to lose control and not be able to stop crying. I managed to hold it in, even walking past the casket, but my brain was turned off. Fortunately, I am experienced at turning off my brain, so it turned out OK.
When we walked outside, I saw people in little groups, making small talk. Where to eat lunch, children's school activities, etc. And I was angry. I wanted to shout, "Don't you understand? This woman changed my life, and now she's gone!" I didn't understand how the world could go on as normal, when it so obviously wasn't normal.
At the cemetery, I went off by myself and just sat for a while. I thought about how much she loved that little place by the lake, and it made me feel a little better. I thought about the fact that even in the painful last few days of her life, she remembered who I was. And maybe, just maybe, she loved me as much as I loved her. What a blessing to know such a wise and caring person!What do you say or do to honor a person who has enriched your life in such a dramatic way? I suppose the only thing to do is to carry on her legacy-with honor and commitment. And long for the time when memories only make me smile instead of cry.

In Defense of Freaks

2008-08-31T17:23:00.001-05:00

Originally Posted 3/14/08
When I was changed as a teenager and began to follow Christ, my parents were less than thrilled. Not that they had anything against God. In fact, it was my Mother’s daily prayer that her family follow Jesus. However, it was a change for them.
In their defense, I think it was a lot to do with a long-standing rivalry between churches in my hometown. I also think the sudden dedication to worship and study may have scared them a little. Let’s face it, tact was not exactly my strong suit back then. Fortunately, God taught me enough of it to ensure my survival to adulthood. (Those of you that knew me as a teenager, and are laughing, I know who you are.)
Contrary to rumors, I was not brainwashed. I was not beaten over the head with doctrine or told what to do. What I saw was something that I had never seen before. I saw people completely devoted to God, His Word, and His church. And I saw that it worked. I saw a group of flawed people, doing their best to follow God’s plan for their lives. They loved and defended one another like a family. And it drew me to them.
The older I get, the more I realize that such a freakishly radical dedication is necessary. Because just as God pursues us with His love, Satan is pursuing us with lies and distractions. Here’s what it sounds like-"Don’t you deserve some time for yourself?" and "You’ve done more than other people. You’re a good person. That’s all that matters." I’m ashamed to admit how many times I’ve believed this junk from him. And he constantly whispers this noise in our ears, until we will do nearly anything just to shut him up.
God, in His infinite wisdom, knew that we needed the church. God does not need our worship or our praise, although He deserves both. He didn’t create the church for Him, He created it for us! May I be frank with you? (That is such a M*A*S*H cue line, but I won’t go there now.) There is no safe place in this world, and any security found here is an illusion. The only safety is found in a close relationship with God, and in the arms of a group of people who want to help you get to Heaven. Period.
So go out there and be a freak! Be just as devoted and dedicated as you possibly can be. God will bless that-I promise you.

Well Done, Good and Faithful Servant!

2008-08-31T17:18:00.002-05:00

Originally Posted 2/26/08

An excellent wife, who can find?
For her worth is far above jewels.
The heart of her husband trusts in her,
And he will have no lack of gain.
She does him good and not evil
All the days of her life.
She looks for wool and flax
And works with her hands in delight.
She is like merchant ships;
She brings her food from afar.
She rises also while it is still night
And gives food to her household
And portions to her maidens.
She considers a field and buys it;
From her earnings she plants a vineyard.
She girds herself with strength
And makes her arms strong.
She senses that her gain is good;
Her lamp does not go out at night.
She stretches out her hands to the distaff,
And her hands grasp the spindle.
She extends her hand to the poor,
And she stretches out her hands to the needy.
She is not afraid of the snow for her household,
For all her household are clothed with scarlet.
She makes coverings for herself;
Her clothing is fine linen and purple.
Her husband is known in the gates,
When he sits among the elders of the land.
She makes linen garments and sells them,
And supplies belts to the tradesmen.
Strength and dignity are her clothing,
And she smiles at the future.
She opens her mouth in wisdom,
And the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.
She looks well to the ways of her household,
And does not eat the bread of idleness.
Her children rise up and bless her;
Her husband also, and he praises her, saying:
"Many daughters have done nobly,But you excel them all."
Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain,
But a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised.
Give her the product of her hands,
And let her works praise her in the gates.-Proverbs 31:10-31

Well done, Aunt Lee. Welcome to the joy of your Lord.

The Fat Man Conspiracy

2008-08-31T16:48:00.000-05:00

Originally Posted 2/13/08

Let me just say that I realize this is not the normal thing that people think about on the day before Valentine's Day. I never claimed to be normal.
I'm thinking about Santa Claus. In most of the world, he is known as Father Christmas, and in all the pictures, he's a regular sized guy. Why is it that in America, he's a jolly fat guy?
Is it that the writer of The Night Before Christmas just thought that fat guys were more jolly? Is it the artist who created the Coca-Cola Santa? Did he somehow know that drinking Coke would make us all fat?
It's really something to think about. Not that I don't think fat guys aren't jolly. I'm just wondering-why the American Santa? Is it just a coincidence, or something more sinister...........................(the Twilight Zone music goes here).

Go Junebug!

2008-08-31T16:45:00.001-05:00

Originally Posted 2/11/08

The Daytona 500 is next Sunday! Gentlemen, start your engines! Woohoo!
I've been thinking for some time that driving here is a lot like NASCAR. Let me warn you, if you're not a fan, you won't get these analogies. I'm just warning you up front.
First of all, you're in a big line of cars, and you're constantly looking ahead for a better spot in line. If you see someone hesitate, you know you've got to get your nose in there and go for it.
Once you've got a good spot in the line, a caution bunches everybody up. The caution can be brought out by a red light, a wreck, or road construction. Then it's "green, green, green", and you go for it again.
Then there's always some idiot that will try some bonzai move and ruin everyone's day. Then the idiot will have to answer to the officials, and they hand out fines-just like NASCAR.
About the only difference is that they don't stop the cars for rain. It's a real shame too, because people get all kinds of crazy when the roads are wet.
A word of caution if you are moving here from out of state-you had better get those tags changed over pretty quick. 'Cause those out of state tags are just like having a big yellow stripe on your bumper. And you know what happens to rookies. ;)

LTC Short Film, Part 2

2008-08-31T16:44:00.000-05:00

Originally Posted 2/10/08

Eli's Wicked Sons (to the tune of "Bad to the Bone" by George Thorogood and the Destroyers)

From the day we was born, Little Levites of Eli, Dad never spanked us, or taught us the law
No one spoke up, as we took the meat, let me tell you honey, we're bad to the bone

Bad to the bone, bad to the bone, b-b-b-b-b-bad, b-b-b-b-b-bad, bad to the bone

We broke 1,000 hearts, that's a lot for a Jew, we'll break 1,000 more baby, before we are through
Our Dad tried to tell us, to quit all this stuff, but we told him, "Daddy, we're bad to the bone"

Bad to the bone, bad to the bone, b-b-b-b-b-bad, b-b-b-b-b-bad, bad to the bone

The Journey Chronicles: Day Seven, Home

2008-08-31T16:42:00.001-05:00

Originally Posted 2/8/08

After our stay in the tween declared sub-standard LaQuinta, we were homeward bound. As much as I love visiting, there is nothing like sleeping in your own bed. A bed that is much yummier these days, thanks to the memory foam mattress pad that Brandon & I bought each other for our anniversary. Yes, I realize that is an old person anniversary present, but I don't really care because that thing is plush!
Everyone was worn pretty thin at this point, and there was a lot of fighting in the ranks. Fortunately, everyone was also exhausted, so there was also a lot of sleeping.
Thanks to John (my Mom's boyfriend, although they haven't officially dated in over 10 years), we were treated to renditions of the slurpee and guacamole songs all the way to Texas. He specifically teaches things to my children that they will repeat over and over on long drives.
John is a very strange man who I like very much, even if he is a Democrat. However, if he votes for Hillary, I will personally drive to Kansas just to barf on his shoes.
After 24 hours of total driving time, and well over 1,000 miles, we were finally home. I am so grateful for my van! It never stopped to take a break on the highway, and no parts fell off! Praise the Lord!
I wonder if I'll ever get it clean again? :(

LTC Short Film, Part 1

2008-08-31T16:08:00.002-05:00

Originally Posted 2/8/08

I decided to post some stuff about the kids' short film, because it's so darn cute, and besides, it's my blog, and I can. :)
Hannah decided to do a musical this year (big surprise), and her friend Hannah Ruthie said she would help as part of her Leadership Challenge. The songs they have written are awesome! The subject is 1 Samuel, and I will post the songs in order of appearance.

Hannah Praying (to the tune of "Help!" by the Beatles) sung by Hannah

Help! I need somebody.
Help! Not just anybody.
Help! You know I need someone. Help!

Oh God, You see my grief, for I don't have a son.
Remember me, Oh Lord, You're the only one
Who can give me children, there's no one like You,
No one besides You, No rock like our God
Oh God, Peninnah has children, and she won't let me forget that even once,
Lord God, won't You please give me a son?
Won't You please, please help me?

Oh Lord, You see my tears, You see my broken heart,
Even now I pray to You, I'm gonna fall apart
Oh God, I'm on my knees, begging You to hear, my plea for a son, I want to reach Your ear
Help me if You will, I'm feelin' down,
and I do appreciate You bein' 'round, Lord, won't You listen to my sound?
Won't you please, please help me?

The Lord brings death and You know He brings life,
the Lord sends poverty and He sends wealth,
Oh Lord, You made the earth, All I ask from You,
Give me a son, Oh Lord, I'd give him back to You

Help me if You will, I'm feelin' down,
and I do appreciate You bein' 'round, Lord, won't You listen to my sound?
Won't You please, please help me?

Help me. Help me. Woo.

The Journey Chronicles: Day Six, Beware! The Alien Approacheth!

2008-08-31T16:06:00.001-05:00

Originally Posted 2/7/08

After we leave Mom's house, it's just us again. Us, meaning just parents & kids. We are headed south, but must stop for the night along the way.
At this point, we are approaching alien territory, metaphorically speaking. You see, there resides in our house a creature called a "tween". This creature is not quite a teenager, but possesses many of the same characteristics.
Apparently, when a child turns 11, the Tweeny Fairy comes to your house, flies into your child's bedroom, and bestows on the child special powers. These powers include eye-rolling, loud sighing and sarcasm.
Lack of sleep and riding for hours in the car increase these powers, so extreme care must be taken. Below is an excerpt of the conversation, as we approached our stop for the night:
Tween: "So, where are we staying tonight?"
Mom: "In Oklahoma City."
Tween: "No, I mean where."
Mom: "North Oklahoma City."
Tween: "Is it a hotel or a motel?"
Mom: "Why?"
Tween: "I don't like motels."
Mom: "Why not?"
Tween: "They're just not as nice."
Mom: "Well, it's a LaQuinta. Is that good enough for you, Miss Thang?"
Tween: "I guess. Does it have an indoor pool?"
This confuses me, as I thought you actually had to have a lot of money to engage in this type of conversation. At this point, the tween was reminded that she was blessed to be sleeping indoors at all, when many children in the world do not. I am quite sure she will appreciate this advice when she is.........thirty.

One More Lesson

2008-08-31T16:04:00.001-05:00

Originally Posted 2/7/08

Today I went to the funeral of a man whom I consider a father. (In case you're counting, that's three Dads for me now. Hey, everybody's gotta have a hobby.) It was difficult, of course, but I felt........proud. Proud to have been associated with such a wonderful man, and to have been able to learn from him. In some small way, I felt that I was representing him and his work. I wanted him to be pleased with me.
Here's the thing-what if I acted that way all the time? What if we all did? What if Christians realized that we are all sons & daughters of the King, and behaved accordingly? We represent our Father to the world, and we want him to be pleased with us. That should impact what we think, what we say, and what we do. What do you think?
"Now if we are children, then we are heirs-heirs of God and co-heirs of Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in His glory." Romans 8:17

The Journey Chronicles: Day Five, Potential

2008-08-31T16:03:00.000-05:00

Originally Posted 2/3/08

Next we traveled southwest to my Mom's house. Just like I have two Dads, I also have two Moms. Mama, the one who raised me, lives in Heaven. Mom, my birth mother, lives in Kansas.
Usually, I feel uncomfortable in other people's homes. I don't feel that way at Mom's house. I think this is because there is no one else I have ever met that is more like me (personality, interests, etc.). Our voices are nearly identical. I guess there is something to genetics after all.
Another reason I feel comfortable there is that she has a house full of critters! She is a foster parent with the Humane Society, so there are always furry creatures to make friends with.
My Mom has the unique gift of seeing potential-whether it be a shelter animal, the house next door, or a tiny baby that needed a chance at a better life. She has the eye of an artist-to see what something could be, instead of what it is. This type of gift is obviously God-given, because God is an artist, and He sees us through those eyes. He sees us as the person He designed for us to be-what we could be in fulfilling His purpose for our lives.
Praise God for eyes that see potential.
So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.-2 Corinthians 4:18

More World Conquering from the Testosterone Brothers

2008-08-31T16:01:00.001-05:00

Originally Posted 2/3/08

They have a new game, Blackhawk Down, and they spent most of the afternoon in training for world domination. The only problem, however, is that they can't seem to resist blowing each other to bits.
Here's how the scene unfolds. Gabriel & Gideon are both in helicopters, and Samuel is on foot patrol. They're supposed to be rescuing some Marines. Gabriel opens fire on Gideon's helicopter.
Gabriel-"Watch out! I just shot you."
Mom-"Fly away, Gideon!"
Gideon-"Aaaaaahhhhhh!"
Gabriel-"Come back here! I'm not done killing you yet!"
Samuel-"Gabe, see what happens when you shoot that truck!"
(Big explosion.)
Gabriel-"Sweet!"
Gideon-"Mommy, look! I'm getting away from Gabe!"
Gabriel-"I wonder what happens if I jump out of the helicopter?"
Gideon-"It won't let you. I already tried."
Samuel-"Run, Gideon! Gabe's chasing you!"
Gabriel (to people on the ground)-"Don't think I don't see you. Yippee, ki ay ki ay, today is a special day, yippee ki ay ki oo, today we shoot you hoo hoo. Ho ho ho."
Samuel-"Man, I just stepped on my own land mine."
As far as I know, those poor Marines have still not been rescued.

Inside the Mind of a Child

2008-08-31T15:59:00.001-05:00

Originally Posted

An interesting way to determine what is going on in your kid's head is to listen to their prayers. Here are some recent excerpts:
Hannah-"Please don't let there be any tornadoes or hurricanes. Oh, and also wildfires-yeah, I would really appreciate that. Thanks a lot."
Samuel-"Please help the scientists not be stupid, and help them to stop saying that Pluto is not a planet."
Gabriel-"Thanks for our pets and our food and water and all the animals and the Holy Spirit and all the angels."
Gideon-"Jesus, please help me to go to Heaven soon."
Now that last one may sound scary, but I know why he is saying this. We've talked about it a lot. The kid actually wants to go to Heaven!
Kids are so much smarter than grown-ups most of the time. No wonder Jesus said, "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 18:3)

The Journey Chronicles: Day Four, I Remember Why I Live in Texas

2008-08-31T15:56:00.001-05:00

Originally Posted 2/2/08

Next we headed to my other Dad's house. I have two Dads-Daddy, the one who raised me, and Dad (Jim), my birth father. We were getting close to Nebraska at this point! Do you know that it is cold there in January? Especially to people who are acclimated to Texas weather. -5 in the morning. Yikes!
Dad is a war hero, although he wouldn't like me calling him that. He is a Purple Heart Vietnam Vet, and commander of his VFW Post. Despite all that they have been through, both my Dads have a good outlook on life. A lot of people could learn from that.
We sit & talk about history & politics, and he has a great sense of humor. My brothers have made a hobby of tormenting him, and they are quite inventive. I hear that it's only payback, but I'm trying to stay neutral on that. I do respect their creativity, though. Dad is also a great cook, which makes it even more fun to go to his house.
While we were there, he introduced my boys to the quintessential toy for boys-a remote controlled farting bear. I'm sure this will be at the top of their Christmas lists next year. They spent a good amount of time throwing the bear into our room, yelling "Incoming!" and setting him off.
Hannah, meanwhile, had her own little "apartment" thing going on in their basement. She would really liked to have moved in, I think.
We just happened to be there on my Grandma's 80th birthday, so we went to see her as well. She has gotten to see all her kids, grandkids & great-grandkids this year. We had a good visit, although Gideon was really testing my patience while we were there. I think he stayed up too late playing with the bear.
After lunch, we packed up & headed southwest. Five hour drive this time. Fortunately, the kids tired themselves out playing in the snow & slept a lot for a lot of the drive.

That Was A Close One!

2008-08-31T15:53:00.002-05:00

Originally Posted 2/2/08

Gideon: Mom, I want a brother.
Mom: You have two brothers already.
Gideon: I want more & more & more brothers until our house is completely full of beds.
Mom: Sorry, I'm not in charge of handing out brothers.
Gideon: You could make another baby.
(This is where I begin to panic-but I play it cool.)
Mom: God's the one who makes babies.
Gideon: Make a robot baby.
Mom: You go make a robot baby.
Gideon: I don't know how.
Mom: I don't either.
(At this point, Gideon decides he's Robocop and shows me the gun built into his leg. Whew!)

Saying Good-bye to my Paul or Time Out! Who ordered this?!?

2008-08-31T15:52:00.001-05:00

Originally Posted 2/1/08

There have been many times in my life when I have been blind-sided by an attack. But this here, this is just dirty pool, mister. I guess no one ever accused satan of playing fair, right?
Bill Banks was a man whom I admired more than just about any man on the planet. He was my Teacher, with a capital T. If I was Timothy, he would be Paul. Do you see what I'm saying here? (If you don't know about Paul & Timothy, look it up-Acts & 1 & 2 Timothy-New Testament).
He loaned me many, many books. Gave me my first study Bible. Gave me my first concordance. Taught me how to study Greek & Hebrew. Taught me to study the Bible on my own. Encouraged me to try to pay attention, in case he made a mistake. (I only caught him one time). He told me sayings that I teach to my children now.
"It is never wrong to do a right thing, and it is never right to do a wrong thing."
He had a beautiful voice, and he took me to sing with him. If he & Arlan were singing, I could go sing too. And that was great. He made me a part of his family, even though, I was (and still am) super annoying. I saw a spiritual leader in him, and I learned how a Christian marriage & a Christian family are supposed to operate.
Not only did this man teach thousands of people about God, he also overcame alcoholism, health problems, and things that most people only read about in books.
He baptized Brandon, baptized Marvin, and was the minister at my wedding. He preached Marvin's funeral, and I was hoping he would be here to preach mine.
I will miss his intelligence, his sense of humor, his love of the Truth, his correction, his voice and even his handwriting.
When I would come to worship, he would open the door, greet me with a hug, and say, "Come in this house." I imagine that's what God said to him this morning.
Meanwhile, a lot of Timothys are left without their Paul.

The Journey Chronicles: Day Three, Daddy's Girl

2008-08-31T15:49:00.001-05:00

Originally Posted 1/29/08

We headed to Kansas later than we had planned. First, because of the ice, and secondly, because I had a hard time leaving Aunt Lee. I really thought that I knew every route between Oklahoma & Kansas, but I was wrong. We ended up taking a wrong turn & had to find our way back on course. It's a shame it was dark, because it's really pretty country through there.
We had a good visit at Daddy's house. We've been through a lot together, my Dad & I. Of our original family unit, we're the only ones left. We've grown closer because of it.
Daddy comes from a musical family, which was a real treat for me growing up. He would play guitar and we would sing. He's an old school Opry/pure country/bluegrass kind of a guy, so that music is like comfort food for me. I got to watch him give my kids their first guitar lesson while we were there, and that was pretty awesome.
We also got to spend the night in his RV, which the kids absolutely loved. It's quite a step up from the tents we usually take camping at the lake. It even has satellite! The kids actually wanted to go to bed at their bedtime. We really liked the RV, but he wasn't anxious to let us take it with us when we left.
I enjoy being around my Dad. I plan to publish a family-friendly version of a Daddy dictionary when I have time. He has some pretty interesting vocabulary. Unfortunately, we had to go farther north, and the weatherman was predicting snow & ice. We packed up & headed north.

The Journey Chronicles: Day Two: The Lake and The Millpond

2008-08-31T15:45:00.001-05:00

Originally Posted 1/27/08

The Lake-I have played in it, fished in it, waded in it, swam in it, literally stayed all day in it more times than I can count. When I see it, I really feel like I'm home.
When I was little, it was very nearly in our back yard. We used to sneak back & watch a family of beavers that lived in a quiet part of the lake. We never got to watch them for very long. One of them would always hear us, and slap his tail on the water to warn the others.
I feel an emotional connection to the water and the rolling hills surrounding it. Is it only people from the little towns around it that feel this way? If you're from my part of the world, you know what I'm talking about.
More importantly, the millpond. I am sitting in a room full of hurting people. Their lives have been churned up, and waves are crashing around them. The waves are unrelenting-"Four weeks." "Double its size every 30 days." "It's in the brain now."
In the center of this room, lies the millpond. Amidst the storm, she is the picture of serenity. Although in pain, she comforts others. I tell her, "Don't sit here for me. Go to bed." She says, "I'm where I need to be." When the bad news comes, you can see peace in her face. The enemy will not conquer her. He doesn't even stir her soul.
I am in the presence of greatness.

The Journey Chronicles: Day One, Taking Care of Business

2008-08-31T15:43:00.002-05:00

Originally Posted 1/27/08

We started out late, because I kept thinking of things to do-"We're going to be gone for a week, maybe I should bleach the tea & coffee pots, wash the shower curtains, etc." We also had the normal travel delays-well, normal for our house anyway. The worm container (snake food) got pushed to the back of the fridge, and the worms froze. So, we had to make a quick worm run, so Bindi wouldn't starve while we were gone.
We were finally underway, with most of our belongings stuffed into the back of the van. We stopped for a while at Brandon's Mom's house, who graciously agreed to babysit Nicky for us. I don't think he would've been as excited had he known he would be getting a bath & haircut during his stay.
We arrived at Brandon's Dad's house sometime in the afternoon. It was good to see them with the kids. Meme & Papa's house is a grandkid's paradise-late night grilled cheese & tic-tac-toe games, unlimited hugs & pizza rolls. What more could you ask for?
We got a good night's sleep, and overnight, the rain turned to ice. What do you expect, traveling north in January, right?

How To Change The World 101

2008-08-31T15:40:00.001-05:00

Originally Posted 1/27/08

It all started with a lady named Edna Reed. She promised God that if He would get her family out of a bad situation, she would always serve Him faithfully. He answered her prayer, and here's how it went down-she taught her family (including her husband) about God. One of her daughters is Lee, who taught & married Bill. Bill taught his whole family & became a preacher. He has taught thousands. He taught a man named Richard, who also became a preacher. Bill & Lee's 2 sons grew up to be preachers, and they are teaching even more people. They have children who will grow up to have faithful families as well.
During my teenage years, Bill & Lee adopted me (or I adopted them-not sure). They faithfully took me to every church service and every church activity. Their home was always open to me, they were constantly teaching me and I learned so much from their example. Because of that example, my children love Jesus. They will likely grow up to have faithful families of their own.
When you think about it, it's not so hard to believe that Jesus & his 12 disciples could turn the world upside down. Granny & Papa Reed, Uncle Bill, Aunt Lee, Danny & David made a great investment in my life. The best I can do to repay them is through faithful service of my own. I am eternally grateful.

Introduction to Gideonese, Lesson 1

2008-08-31T15:39:00.002-05:00

Originally Posted 1/5/08

Gideonese is a complex language, ever evolving. Just remember-the study of Gideonese is not for the faint of heart. Here is lesson 1. The first word or phrase is in Gideonese, followed by the English translation.
Kaypotch=Ketchup
Telzone-Telephone (e.g., Liar, liar, pants on fire. Hang your clothes on a telzone wire)
Hermit Crack=Hermit Crab
Lionheads 2-Secondhand Lions, the movie (this is actually Samuelese, later adopted by Gideon)
Clinker=Taken from a line in A Christmas Story, this is Gideon's special name for Guy Rodgers, and is occasionally used to annoy others as well.
I'm starving to death!=This phrase is used as a request for nourishment (e.g., breakfast, lunch, dinner, various snack times).
Nose fight=this is a game in which Gideon presses his nose against another person's nose. Since he apparently has no cartilage in his nose, this is quite painful for his opponent. If you hear this phrase, run like the wind.
Handsome & Griddle=Hansel & Gretel
Mom, cook.=Good morning
You're beautiful=Thank you for breakfast
In lesson 2, we will explore Gideonese phrases used to stay up past bedtime and avoid cleaning your part of the bedroom.
Thank you for your attention.

The Junior World Conquering Society of America

2008-08-31T15:37:00.002-05:00

Originally Posted 1/4/08

I used to believe the media hype that playing with toy guns makes little boys more prone to violence. Now that I have 3 boys of my own, I've changed my mind about that. I'm now convinced that they are hard-wired to love weapons.
If you don't buy a boy a toy gun, he will make a gun out of household objects. I promise you, a grilled cheese sandwich makes a fine gun, when eaten in the right way. Sticks, curtain rods and wrapping paper tubes also make great swords for knights in training.
Brandon got a Game Stop gift card for Christmas, so they all went in search of hard-core weaponry. Their favorite place is the used game shelf. They came home with enough games to explode things to their hearts' content.
The next ritual, I admit, is lost on the estrogen-producers of the house. Here's how it works-the men of the house battle each other and take turn battling numerous computer opponents. Smack-talking is apparently an essential part of this ritual. Here is an example:
Samuel-"Dude, I am like, whipping you!"
Gabriel-"Take that! (maniacal laugh)"
This trash-talking often digresses into actual wrestling matches, much to the delight of all involved. Gideon, the junior member of this society, tends to root for whatever brother is winning at the moment. He does pay careful attention to the ritual, so that when he gets a turn, there won't be a breach of male etiquette.
Earlier this evening, Samuel was learning the new war game, and was in the supply truck for another gun. Here's what was said:
Brandon-"Sam, don't shoot in the truck! You'll blow everything up!"
Samuel-"Yay!"
See what I mean? There's no escaping it. And it starts early. Gideon has a new game where I guess what job he wants when he grows up. Usually it's fireman, policeman or doctor. This is how it went yesterday:
Gideon-"Mommy, guess what I want to be when I grow up."
Mom-"A firefighter?"
Gideon-"No! I want to be an army man."
Mom-"Oh really? Why do you want to be a soldier?"
Gideon-"Because that's the only way I can get a machine gun and a Bazooka."
There's no hope for Hannah & I-we are outnumbered. When we can't take anymore of the testosterone fest, we retreat to do our nails and listen to music, and leave them to conquer the world on their own.

What I Have Against Wal-Mart

2008-08-31T15:35:00.001-05:00

Originally Posted 1/3/08

A lot of people have asked me about this, so here it is-the ugly story about why I call Wal-Mart "the evil store".
My stance on Wal-Mart has a lot to do with our trade with China. Over 90% of Wal-Mart's products come from China. I realize this is the case in other stores as well. However, being the world's largest retailer means they have the biggest influence on the problem.
First of all, I find it the height of hypocrisy that we refuse to trade with Cuba (a communist nation), yet we currently run a $200 million dollar trade deficit with China (also a communist nation). Why? Because China has more money. During the Clinton administration, China was granted "most favored nation" status. Have we all lost our minds?!? Is it any wonder that other nations look at us with disdain when our government can obviously be bought.
Secondly, many of these "made in China" products are made by prison labor. Guess what you can get locked up for in China? Converting people to Christianity. Guess who's making the "made in China" products? Christians in Chinese prisons. Being a nation founded on Judeo-Christian principles, we ought to boycott their products for that reason alone.
Thirdly, their use of RFID (radio frequency identification device) technology. Wal-Mart is at the forefront of replacing the UPC code with a new EPC code. This new code would create a unique code for each item sold. RFIDs can be read remotely-this is the same technology used in PikePass, for example. This means that tracking of items doesn't stop at the store shelves. I'm talking about tracking everything, everywhere. You buy a pair of shoes at Wal-Mart, and they could potentially track where those shoes go. I can't express the amount of privacy invasion this could create.
Here's something else-has anyone considered the loss of American jobs in this situation? Here's how it works-you go & buy a lot of goods at Wal-Mart, because they have the best prices. This enables Wal-Mart to make a profit. They buy more things from China, because it is cheap and they can make a bigger profit. The factory in the USA where these things used to be made shuts down, and you lose your job. But guess who's hiring, because they're making a profit? That's right-Wal-Mart! So you go to work for Wal-Mart, and the whole cycle repeats itself.
Is anyone listening? Does anyone get it? They are selling us out! Was anyone paying attention when the Congress passed these trade laws? Does anyone care that a socialist nation has our economy in a stranglehold? Has anyone noticed that the dollar is falling steadily in value? No, because all we cared about was saving a few bucks.

The Point

2008-08-31T15:33:00.000-05:00

Originally Posted 12/25/07

Life just doesn't get much better than this. I'm sitting on my couch, wrapped up in a quilt that was lovingly made by my Mama, watching M*A*S*H. My dog, Hawkeye (named after Hawkeye Pierce, of course), is laying in the next seat, having just turned his customary circles before going to sleep. This is takes some balance and coordination in a rocker-recliner. Just one of the things that makes Hawkeye such a magnificent animal. Meanwhile in Korea, Hawkeye & B.J. just filled Hotlips' pillow with chocolate pudding, and Radar is mailing a Jeep home in pieces. Comedy just doesn't get much better than that. I thinking earlier today about the tradition of the American Christmas. The adults spends literally months buying & hiding, and then wrapping presents. More days are spent decorating anything that will stand still. We spend days preparing a feast. Then in a few short hours, Christmas is over for another year. Is all this preparation worth it? Absolutely. Not because of the sweet faces of my children when they come into the room on Christmas morning, although that is a great blessing indeed. It is because Christmas represents the eternal. All of the symbols of Christmas-the tree, the candy cane, the poinsettia, the gifts-all point to Jesus. The fact that Jesus would be willing to leave Heaven, lower Himself & live among us is astounding. The fact that He would be willing to restrain His power while He suffered and died a horrible death is even more astounding. But the most astounding fact is that He did all this, even conquering death, just so we could live with Him forever! How amazing is that?!? This is why Christmas is so important. Not because of "Black Friday", filling stockings, or sampling desserts. The purpose of Christmas is to celebrate the birth, life, death & resurrection of the most important man in human history. If we don't get that, then Christmas is....well, quite pointless.

12/8/77-10/26/05

2008-08-31T15:27:00.003-05:00

Originally Posted 12/8/07

Bubba,
You would've been 30 today. I still miss you, and it's still not fair.
I'll love you always,
Me

Elle G. by Newsboys

Thumbs out on a desert road
I am told
leads to nowhere
any shade is as good as the next
if your shadow doesn't go there

Week seven: Did you really asume
I'd find some solace from the letter in your room?
next life, could you kindly refain
from throwing yourself at the mercy of a train?

Silence all, nobody breathe
how in the world could you just leave?
you promised you would
silence that evil with good

hear me out, I have the floor
I'll give you my tears, I'll listenmore
you promised you would
overcome evil with good

Maybe this world is a barren place for a soul
prone to get lost
but heaven still hounds from the smallest sounds
to the cries of the storm-tossed

Week nine: I am writing in the sand
any little clue that could help me understand
every whispered secret, every muffled sigh
every half-truth that was added to a lie

Silence all, nobody move
I've got to know now what you hoped to prove
you promised you would
silence that evil with good

Shame feeds guilt, guilt needs release
you took it to God
you made your peace
and swore that you would
overcome evil with good

Every old demon playing back the crime
if they needed blood, I'd have gladly given mine
a Child of the Kingdom; still an invalid
forgive her, please Father
she don't know what she did

Silence all, now go to sleep
the water's free, the well is deep
how can we return
that which we never could earn?

God, I long to see her face
we haven't a hope
beyond Your grace
I know that You will
overcome evil for good

Bring the Rain

2008-08-31T14:54:00.002-05:00

Originally Posted 10/28/07

I can count a million times
People asking me how
ICan praise You with all that I've gone through
The question just amazes me
Can circumstances possibly
Change who I forever am in You
Maybe since my life was changed
Long before these rainy days
It's never really ever crossed my mind
To turn my back on you, oh Lord
My only shelter from the storm
But instead I draw closer through these times
So I prayBring me joy, bring me peace
Bring the chance to be free
Bring me anything that brings You glory
And I know there'll be days
When this life brings me pain
But if that's what it takes to praise You
Jesus, bring the rain
I am Yours regardless of
The dark clouds that may loom above
Because You are much greater than my pain
You who made a way for me
By suffering Your destiny
So tell me what's a little rain
So I pray
Holy, holy, holy
Is the Lord God Almighty

"For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."-2 Corinthians 4:17-18

12/8/77-10/26/05

2008-08-31T13:58:00.004-05:00

Originally Posted 10/26/07

Marvin,
It's been 2 years now, and sometimes it feels like yesterday that you were here. Most days, the grief is like gentle water, tickling my toes enough to let me know you're still gone. Some days, it comes in a big wave that knocks me off my feet. I guess the key is always getting back up again.
I will always love you,
Donna

Homesick by MercyMe
You're in a better place, I've heard a thousand times

And at least a thousand times I've rejoiced for you

But the reason why I'm broken, the reason why I cry

Is how long must I wait to be with you

I close my eyes and I see your face

If home's where my heart is then I'm out of place

Lord, won't you give me strength to make it through somehow

I've never been more homesick than now

Help me Lord cause I don't understand your ways

The reason why I wonder if I'll ever know

But, even if you showed me, the hurt would be the same

Cause I'm still here so far away from home

I close my eyes and I see your face

If home's where my heart is then I'm out of place

Lord, won't you give me strength to make it through somehow

I've never been more homesick than now

In Christ, there are no goodbyeAnd in Christ, there is no end

So I'll hold onto Jesus with all that I have

To see you again

And I close my eyes and I see your face

If home's where my heart is then I'm out of place

Lord, won't you give me strength to make it through somehow

Won't you give me strength to make it through somehow

I've never been more homesick than now

20 Things I Am Thankful For Today

2008-08-31T13:56:00.003-05:00

Originally Posted 9/4/07
1. God sent rain to wash the air and make it better for breathing.
2. It is not 100 degrees today.
3. I have ink in my printer.
4. Blair & Brittany gave us free tickets to see the Promise last weekend.
5. Our yard has a lot of trees.
6. Brandon likes his job.
7. We watched a spider spinning a web this week.
8. Our garden grew vegetables this year.
9. When I bought Hannah's ballet shoes, I got some cute shoes with smiley faces & rainbows on them for half price.
10. Texas is homeschool friendly.
11. My kids like school.
12. Some sparrows made a nest in my spider plant on the porch.
13. I have a lot of people that will help me when I need it.
14. Hannah hasn't had a seizure in over two years.
15. Gabriel hasn't had a seizure in over a year.
16. Brandon knows everything about me, and likes me anyway.
17. I found some stuff that keeps my nails from breaking.
18. I can buy stamps at the grocery store, so I don't have to go inside the post office.
19. Brandon can fix my van, so I don't have to take it to the shop.
20. Singing is free.

The Singing, Cornet-Playing Ballerina

2008-08-31T13:54:00.003-05:00

Originally Posted 8/20/07
We had our first day of TAFA today. For all you foreigners, TAFA stands for Travis Academy of Fine Arts. This our second year, and the kids absolutely love it. TAFA is home to over 500 of the most creative, talented homeschoolers you will ever meet.
This year, Hannah is taking band, ballet & choir. Samuel is taking choir, art & drama. Here's how it works-on Mondays, we pack up all our belongings in the van and spend the day in Ft. Worth. My job, primarily, is to cart about all those belongings in a tightly packed backpack. There is also a lot of running to get them to the right classes at the right time, lunchroom monitor duties, and teaching the younger two while the older ones are in class.
Of course, after we get home, Hannah had to practice her cornet. This must be done in the schoolroom, as a cornet can be surprisingly loud, especially after having lunchroom monitor duty. After a while, things got quiet in the schoolroom. Apparently, Hannah thought this would be a great time to sneak up on her mother and demonstrate her new horn. Let me tell you, if you have never been surprised by a cornet-playing ballerina, it is something you will never forget. Hannah thought this was the funniest thing she had done in a long time. I assured her that it wouldn't seem so funny when I move her practice out to the back porch.
Samuel wants to sign up for band next year, and we're thinking of something in percussion. Any instrument that gives him permission to whack something with a stick would be appropriate.
All this cornet playing has inspired a rousing game of homemade orchestra. Hannah on the cornet, Samuel playing pots & pans, Gabriel on the keyboard, and Gideon using pot lids for cymbals. This is a popular game at our house that tends to go on for hours.
All this creativity has got me thinking-do parents of creative children buy more Tylenol? It seems to be something worth studying.

My New Personal Assistant & Bathroom Entertainment

2008-08-31T13:52:00.002-05:00

Originally Posted 7/29/07
Before I tell my story, I have put in a quick plug for my favorite radio station-KLTY. If you're not close, you can listen at http://www.klty.com/. It is hands down the best radio station around, and you absolutely can't be in a bad mood for very long while listening.
Anyway..............on to the story. Gideon has made himself my personal assistant. He follows me everywhere, and is never quiet. If I am moving, there is a steady stream of chatter behind me. If I am still, the chatter moves into my lap. The chatter consists of many questions, stories & songs.
A few days ago, I was discussing with Brandon how Satan lies to people. He constantly whispers in your ear-"You're no good. You've done this & that, you might as well give up, blah, blah, blah." If you don't have the voice of Truth to counteract Satan's lies, they can grow distracting, annoying, and in some cases, literally drive you insane. Anyway, Gideon was listening to this conversation. He made it his job for the rest of the day to climb in my lap and whisper "I love you" in my ear. God is so good.
Another of my assistant's jobs is bathroom entertainment. Since he is past the age where he can accompany me to the bathroom, he makes it his job to stand outside the door. He sings, tells stories, and generally does all he can to make sure that (a) I'm still there, (b) I haven't forgotten he's there, and (c) make sure I don't stay in the bathroom too long. Sometimes I can see his little fingers (or toes) under the door, and sometimes he passes toys under the door, just to make sure I don't get bored.
Best of all is song time. Here is the song he made up for me today. "My beautiful Mommy, she is so beautiful, and I love her. Ketchup man, ketchup man, ketchup man, ketchup man!" I kid you not, the last note (complete with jazz hands), was a full 8 measures. That's my boy!
I know this fascination with Mommy will pass, so I'm trying to take it for all it's worth. God has granted me precious time with these little guys, and I don't want to waste a minute. It reminded me of a song I dearly love. Here are the lyrics-
Remember me In a Bible cracked and faded by the years Remember me In a santuary filled with silent prayers
CHORUS:And age to age And heart to heart Bound by grace and peace Child of wonder, Child of God I'll remember you Remember Me
Remember me When the color of the sunset fills the sky Remember me When you pray and the tears of joy fall from your eyes
CHORUS
Remember me When the children leave their Sunday school with smiles Remember me When they're old enough to teach Old enough to preach Old enough to leave
CHORUS
Age to age and heart to heart Child of wonder child of God
Remember me
Age to age and heart to heart Child of wonder child of God

Current Food Policy and Translation

2008-08-31T13:51:00.002-05:00

Originally Posted 7/19/07
Our house is not a democracy. It's more like a dual-dictatorship. We are also running a one-income homeschool program. This affects our policy on food. In other words, nothing gets wasted. At least, that's the goal.
Here's how it works. I cook a mostly nutritious meal, which causes one or more of the children to say either, "I don't like this.," or "I'm not hungry right now." Translation-this food is not hot dog, mac & cheese, or chicken nugget.
To this I reply, "Eat it now, or eat it later. It doesn't make any difference to me." Translation-eat it now, in its current form, or eat it later in the week, cooked into something else. P.S.-no dessert if you don't eat it.
Another illustration-today, Hannah was walking through the kitchen as I was cleaning out the fridge. This always frightens the children, as they are sure that I will take what I find there and cook it into a casserole or soup-like substance.
I had beside me a plate of meat scraps, that I was planning to feed to the dogs. Hannah said, "What's that?", quickly followed by, "Are you throwing it away?" Translation-please, please tell me you're throwing it away and not making it into something we will have to eat later.
As a whole, they are continually lobbying for a diet that includes more soda, fries and Happy Meal toys. However, we feel that in the interest of nutrition and finances, the current policy stands.
Lord help us if they ever decide to form a union. I don't know if I have the negotiating skills to fight the Teamsters.

Pillow Talk

2008-08-31T13:49:00.003-05:00

Originally Posted 7/8/07
Hannah isn't feeling well, so she's in my bed tonight. Here are a few of the things I have heard her say in her sleep tonight. (Usually she's not speaking English, so this is a real treat.)
1. No, it's like California. We need rain. (This was in a Darth Vader type voice. Pretty spooky.)
2. You know how usually people get frosting on them, well, Gabriel's all frothy. (I didn't know she knew the word frothy.)
3. How many dogs are here? This is Hawkeye, right? No, it's Shrek.
4. Gabriel! Gab-ree-ell! I'm telling!
5. Yay, Mommy! You won! What did you win?
6. Oh, I see! Yeah, I bet you're right.
7. Sore tooth.
I guess I'll go to bed and see if I can communicate with her. Strange and interesting things happen around here sometimes. :)

Fireworks and A Hired Soldier

2008-08-31T13:48:00.001-05:00

Originally Posted 7/4/07
Earlier this week, Brandon had promised to take all the kids to the fireworks store after they finished their chores.
As is usually the case when rooms have to be cleaned in a hurry, Hannah bribed Samuel to help her clean her room. The payment is usually something grand from Hannah's secret stash of candy, rights to future allowance earnings, or promises of game board playing.
Anyway, the room got cleaned, and they came out of Hannah's room. Hannah said, "Thank you so much, Samuel!" Samuel rolled over on her like a mafia informant. He walked past me in the hall and said, "She stuffed everything under the bed", and kept walking. Hannah was furious.
In Samuel's defense, he has to endure a lot helping Hannah. She can be a cruel taskmaster when she wants to be, earning her the title of "Drill Sargeant Daughter" around the house.
For some reason, this episode made me think of Desert Storm. When the American soldiers approached the Iraqis in battle, they would fall all over themselves to surrender. You just can't buy loyalty. It must be inspired.
Epilogue-everyone came back from the store with enough fireworks to start our own war. Moral of the story-never send a pyromaniac to the fireworks store unsupervised.

Missing Mom

2008-08-31T13:46:00.001-05:00

Originally Posted 6/28/07
Today was my Mom's birthday. She would have been 68 today. Man, I really miss her, even though she's been gone almost 11 years.
I wonder a lot of times what she would think about me now. I was pregnant with Hannah when she died, and still such a brat. Not that I'm perfect now, but no one really grows up until they have children of their own. I was so self-absorbed then, and immature. Of course, a lot of the growing I did was because of her death, so who knows.
I hope she would be proud of me. I know she would love the kids. She was so looking forward to being a grandma. She would have been a great grandma, and the kids would have learned a lot from her.
Sometimes now I have trouble remembering her voice, and that bothers me. I can still remember her hands. I remember sitting on her lap with my head on her chest, listening to her heartbeat. I remember her making biscuits, and reading, and I remember her smile.
A lot of things have happened since her death that would have made her sad as well. Since there are no tears in Heaven, maybe God only allows you to see things that would make you happy. I hope that's true. I would love to think that she could look down and see her precious grandbabies, and see how happy Brandon & I are together.
Mom, I hope you look down on our little family, and I hope you are proud. I love you, and I'll miss you always.

Public Service Announcement

2008-08-31T13:44:00.001-05:00

Originally Posted 6/27/07
Let me offer some advice to couples looking at starting a family-have your children while you are young. Otherwise, you may end up like Family X. This poor family is suffering from a Mom in menopause, a Dad in mid-life crisis, and two girls in puberty. You could measure the hormone levels in that house with a seismograph. Oh the humanity!
Don't let this happen to you! Avoid excessive hormone levels, and plan your family accordingly.
Thank you.

The Car Girl, Her Daddy & The Floating Honey

2008-08-31T13:42:00.002-05:00

Originally Posted 6/16/07
I'm a car girl. I love racing & car shows. I love the sound of a well tuned engine. I know what a lot of the parts are & what they do. I have changed a tire, changed my oil & can drive a stick. I notice vibrations, noises and all sorts of things in my car, and sometimes, I can diagnose the problem.
All this is from hanging out with my Daddy in the garage. He was always working on something, and I soaked up everything he said. Sometimes, if the vehicle didn't cooperate, I could add some interesting new words to my vocabulary. (I don't say those words anymore.)
This brings me to my next subject-my husband. He has been home for three weeks for a work injury. He has been chomping at the bit to go get his car since he got off crutches. I was taking the practical approach. Here's how the conversation goes:
Him-"We need to go get my car." Me-"You can't drive right now, so we might as well leave it there." Him-"We need to go get my car."
We went to Ft. Worth to get the car tonight, and he was like a kid in a candy store. He took off, and I tried to keep up with him for a while. I finally gave up, due to the sharp curves coming out of the railroad yard. Surprisingly, a minivan doesn't handle quite as well as a Mustang.
The Mustang handles like it's on rails. The van is more......utilitarian. Anyway, it looked like it was floating on those curves. I don't know if it was the car or the driver, but man, it was pretty to watch.
All this made me think. Can you tell someone's mood by the way they drive? If so, are people thinking I'm.........utilitarian? Or what? Tell me what you think.

What God Is Teaching Me

2008-08-31T13:41:00.001-05:00

Originally Posted 5/28/07
Let me see if I can explain this in a way that makes sense. God has given me talents. I'm not saying this to brag, because God gives talents to everyone, liberally. What I am saying is that now, at the age of 33, I have learned what these talents are for! Amazing, right?
Most of my life I used my talents in what the Bible calls "selfish ambition". Ambition to be famous (or whatever) for my own gain. I call this the Diva Phase.
"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves." Phil. 2:3
This can lead you to all sorts of trouble. If you don't believe me, look at the celebrity articles in the news.
"For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice." James 3:16
Then there was a time when I buried my talents. This is equally non-productive. It is called the Ostrich Phase.
"Then the man who had received the one talent came. 'Master,' he said, 'I knew that you are a hard man, harvesting where you have not sown and gathering where you have not scattered seed. So I was afraid and went out and hid your talent in the ground. See, here is what belongs to you.' "His master replied, 'You wicked, lazy servant! So you knew that I harvest where I have not sown and gather where I have not scattered seed? Well then, you should have put my money on deposit with the bankers, so that when I returned I would have received it back with interest. " 'Take the talent from him and give it to the one who has the ten talents. For everyone who has will be given more, and he will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him. And throw that worthless servant outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.' Matthew 25:24-30
Through various lessons from several people (including Veggie Tales-Lord of the Beans-great story!), all orchestrated by the Master, I have discovered that these gifts all have a purpose! I am to use all of them to serve Him and others. Like everything else in life, when you find purpose, it is liberating. And as the rest of the story in Matthew reads, when you use your talents, God gives you more! Amazing God we serve.
I can now sing with abandon, act and paint with purpose. Not only that, but it brings great joy and peace to know that God finds me worthy of teaching. He thinks I can still learn things, despite my past record of stupidity.
What should this phase be called? Any ideas?

Videos Du Jour

2008-08-31T13:39:00.001-05:00

Originally Posted 5/25/07
Welcome to my latest attempt to utilize technology to annoy the general public-my video commentary!
I am featuring three videos this week. I chose them because I love songs that tell stories and these three have a particular emotional quality that I like.
The first one is "Where Did You Sleep Last Night" by Nirvana. I have loved this performance since I saw it live on MTV (1990 something?) The song is simple & powerful, and watch Kurt Cobain at the end of the song. There is a moment where he looks up at the audience-I have never seen such raw emotion in a singer's eyes before. It's amazing.
#2 is "November Rain" by Guns & Roses. Such a sad story, and I love the arrangement. The orchestra (especially the strings) add so much to the performance, and who can't rock to that Slash guitar solo? Awesome!
The third one is "Hurt" by Johnny Cash. It's so ironic that this would be his last video. I know it's orginally a Nine Inch Nails song, but the video transformed it into a biography of Johnny Cash. His portrayal was so genuine, it almost makes you feel that he knows his life is over. The way he closes the piano at the end of the video just gives you chills.
Feel free to comment on my commentary-but be kind. You never know what might push me over the edge. :)

Samuel

2008-08-31T13:37:00.002-05:00

Originally Posted 5/20/07
Samuel has an amazing gift. He has the heart of a servant.
Yesterday, he was given $20 for his birthday from his grandparents, and this morning, he gave all of it to God. This is Samuel's gift. He always gives, without being prompted, holding nothing back.
He asks to go to the food bank-to serve. He asks to go to the nursing home-to serve. His heart aches for anyone hurting or in need. I have never seen such an attitude of giving in any child (or in most adults). I learn from him every day.
I hope I can be like Samuel when I grow up.

People Are Like Cars

2008-08-31T13:36:00.001-05:00

Originally Posted 5/11/07
My van is growing a personality.
For instance, if we take two trips to Fort Worth, I know it will need a quart of transmission fluid. This is its way of saying, "These are long trips, and my joints are aching. How about some relief here?"
On occasion, it likes to stop on the freeway to rest. This is its way of saying, "Look-I have been carrying you people around for weeks. It's time to rest now." So we stop to rest for an hour or two, and its ready to go again.
Sometimes when we turn the corner, it makes strange noises. Sort of like me on the exercise bike. You see, all these quirks don't make a van (or a person) useless. Sometimes they both just need a little extra attention.
Sometimes we don't take the time to get to know someone, because they're too young, too old, too high maintenance. Slow down and take the time. You may find the trip more rewarding.

Animals and the Tooth Fairy

2008-08-31T13:16:00.002-05:00

Originally Posted 3/1/07
Here are a few animal-related quotes from the past few weeks:
"Uncle Billy is half gorilla."-Gideon
"Don't breed or buy while shelter pets die."-Hannah
"I want a hermit crack for my birthday."-Gideon
While viewing the mandrills at the zoo-"God decorated their faces."-Hannah "And their booties."-Samuel
Earlier this week, Samuel lost a tooth. While we were preparing for a visit from the tooth fairy, Samuel told me that he didn't think it was nice that the grown up teeth push the baby teeth out. He said the grown up teeth were being mean. He was also concerned that the tooth might miss him, so we printed a picture of him and left it for the tooth fairy. He also wrote a letter explaining to the tooth fairy that she was to take the picture along with the tooth, so it wouldn't get lonely.
My children are interesting animals. I am so blessed to be the zookeeper around here!

First Film!

2008-08-31T13:15:00.001-05:00

Originally 2/23/07
So, my 2 oldest children are shooting their first film! In our living room. :) They have signed up to do this short film, over the book of Acts, for a church competition (I guess they have their Uncle Jacob's genes). We have to mail it on Monday, and things are nuts around here!
Here's what it looks like: bathrobes everywhere (Bible costumes), green sheet taped to the living room wall (for the green screen effect we're hoping to do in editing), looooonnnnggg crowd scene background that they drew, and brown paper stones in the school room (for the stoning of Stephen).
Here are some reasons why shooting a short film in your living room is not recommended:
1. Younger children who are not yet actors must be kept quiet in a far end of the house.
2. Pets who will not cooperate with the director must be kept quiet outside.
3. Living rooms built in the 1970's do not have the lighting required for a movie set.
4. Husbands who are drafted as cinematographers can become tempermental after many re-takes.
Hopefully, we will all survive this process. I'll let you know how it turns out.

Thank God For Broken Windows!

2008-08-31T13:12:00.003-05:00

Originally Posted 2/9/07
Well, it was just a matter of time..................
A few days ago, I had to drop something off at a friend's house. Mind you, my friend's kids and my kiddos are great friends. Anyway, we get to the house of my good friend, and I tell my children (stern voice) "Stay in your seats. Do not unbuckle." You can start laughing now.
As soon as I got to the door, previously mentioned good friend's children head out to the van to talk to my kids. ALL of my children unbuckle and leave the vehicle. My youngest, good boy that he is, remembers to lock the van when he gets out. The vehicle is still running. With a full tank of gas.
Good friend's son comes inside, laughing, to inform me of these events. I roll my eyes and head outside to pretend I'm in control of this situation.
Background information: a few months ago, we were out running errands (with same friend's son in tow), we turned a corner, and the side window FELL OFF the van into the street. It didn't break, it just fell off. It's not the first thing to fall off the van, so we loaded it up and Brandon reattached it somehow.
Back to the locked van: my friend & I were able to pry the side window off enough to unlock the doors. Some loctite & duct tape, and we were on our way. The kids spent the rest of the afternoon cleaning the garage, in case it rained and I had to put the van in the garage.
The moral of this story: When the window falls off your van, be thankful. You may need to pry it off again later.

Conversations With A 3-Year Old

2008-08-31T13:07:00.002-05:00

Originally Posted 2/4/07

Here is just a sample of the many things you can learn from a wise 3 year old:
Mom: Guess what tomorrow is.
Gideon: I don't know.
Mom: It's Sunday! Do you know what we do on Sunday?
Gideon: What?
Mom: We get to go to Bible class!
Gideon: Will there be candy?
Mom: Do you get candy in your class?
Gideon: Yes.
Mom: I don't get candy in my class! How come I don't get candy in my class?
Gideon: Maybe it's because you're so weird.

Point well taken, son.

12/8/77-10/26/05

2008-08-31T13:03:00.004-05:00

Originally Posted 12/8/06
Fire and Rain by James Taylor
Just yesterday morning, they let me know you were gone.
Suzanne, the plans they made put an end to you.
I walked out this morning and I wrote down this song, I just can't remember who to send it to.
I've seen fire and I've seen rain.
I've seen sunny days that I thought would never end.
I've seen lonely times when I could not find a friend, but I always thought that I'd see you again.
Won't you look down upon me, Jesus, You've got to help me make a stand.
You've just got to see me through another day.
My body's aching and my time is at hand and I won't make it any other way.
Oh, I've seen fire and I've seen rain.
I've seen sunny days that I thought would never end.
I've seen lonely times when I could not find a friend, but I always thought that I'd see you again.
Been walking my mind to an easy time, my back turned towards the sun.
Lord knows when the cold wind blows it'll turn your head around.
Well, there's hours of time on the telephone line to talk about things to come.
Sweet dreams and flying machines in pieces on the ground.
Oh, I've seen fire and I've seen rain.
I've seen sunny days that I thought would never end.
I've seen lonely times when I could not find a friend, but I always thought that I'd see you baby, one more time again, now.
Thought I'd see you one more time again.
There's just a few things coming my way this time around, now.
Thought I'd see you, thought I'd see you, fire and rain, now.

I'll miss you forever, baby brother. I love you.

AMAZING!

2008-08-31T12:55:00.005-05:00

Originally Posted 11/23/06
I think I mentioned that lyrics are important to me. These lyrics are phenomenal, and Natalie Grant has got some pipes! Here are the lyrics:
Two months is too little. They let him go.
They had no sudden healing. To think that providence would
Take a child from his mother while she prays Is appalling.
Who told us we'd be rescued? What has changed and why should we be saved from nightmares?We're asking why this happens To us who have died to live? It's unfair.
(Chorus)
This is what it means to be held.
How it feels when the sacred is torn from your life
And you survive. This is what it is to be loved.
And to know that the promise was
When everything fell we'd be held.
This hand is bitterness.We want to taste it, let the hatred numb our sorrow.
The wise hands opens slowly to lilies of the valley and tomorrow.
(Chorus)
This is what it means to be held.
How it feels when the sacred is torn from your life
And you survive. This is what it is to be loved. And to know that the promise was
When everything fell we'd be held.
(Bridge) If hope is born of suffering. If this is only the beginning.
Can we not wait for one hour watching for our Savior?
(Chorus)This is what it means to be held. How it feels when the sacred is torn from your life
And you survive. This is what it is to be loved. And to know that the promise was
When everything fell we'd be held. This is what it is to be loved. And to know, that the promise was when everything fell, we'd be held.
Life is hard, but God is good. What an amazing lesson..............

The Dog Ate My Homework!

2008-08-31T12:54:00.002-05:00

Originally posted 11/10/06
No lie, the dog actually ate our homework. Our science experiment, actually. Brandon & the kids had made a contraption to try to catch mosquitos (yeast, sugar & water, producing CO2-makes for a great science lesson). Anyway, the dog managed to get the top off of it and ate/drank it all. This led to another interesting science lesson-one about dogs and upset stomachs. Ahh, the perils of homeschooling...................

Weirdness

2008-08-31T12:51:00.003-05:00

Originally posted 11/04/06
This week was weird. It was the first anniversary of my brother's death (which really stinks, in case you're wondering). Our dear neighbor, Betty Trussell, died this week, forcing my kids to deal with death-again. Hannah said in her prayers tonight, "Please God, I hope I don't have to wear my funeral dress ever again." Death pretty much stinks from every angle. On the other hand, it makes me thankful that God has provided a way to conquer death. In Heaven, no one dies! Praise God! That may be the best thing about Heaven, right?
I just got back today from a ladies retreat that was AWESOME! I talked to some older ladies that are way, way smarter than I am. I needed that. It was good to go out in God's creation and soak up the beauty and get some renewal.
After the funeral, we took a nap, and my precious boys decided to create a monstrosity in their room. I was told there were Cheerios and chocolate syrup involved, but I was afraid to look. Brandon, being the manly man he is, took charge so I wouldn't have to kill anyone.
I've had better weeks, but I've had worse ones too. I guess that means it all comes out even in the end.
"For all things work together for good, for those who love God, for those who are called according to His purpose. " Romans 8:28

The Cage

2008-08-31T12:34:00.008-05:00

Originally posted 10/26/06

The Cage

Once there was a cage. Inside the cage was an adorable little boy. A little boy with blond hair, whose blue eyes sparkled when he laughed.

Outside the cage were two terrible monsters. Their names were Addiction and Depression. They made it their job to torment the boy. Their master was Satan, and they were cruel and relentless.

Long ago, Addiction had lured the boy into the cage with promises of peace and fulfillment. Once the boy was secured in the cage, Depression began his evil work. He constantly whispered lies in the boy's ear. The voice became so distracting that the boy could no longer hear the voice of Truth calling to him. And the little boy cried.

Throughout the long years of his imprisonment, many warriors of Light came to the boy's aid, but they could only offer comfort. They could not free the boy from the cage.

The boy held in his hand a golden key. It was given to him long ago, by the great King of Light. He could have been free at any time, if only he had reached for the key. But he dared not. The monsters were too terrible, and he was afraid.

After a long time, the little boy became accustomed to the cage and its perils. Although he longed for freedom, his spirit was tired, and he stopped trying to escape. So deep was his despair, that he only saw one choice-to extinguish the tiny light placed in his heart by the King long ago.

After the light went out, the monsters and their master were delighted. They began to look about for another little one to lure into their cage.

Suddenly, Truth, Son of the Great King, appeared. Light radiated from Him, and He held in his hand a golden key. The monsters shuddered in fear, and tried to shield themselves from the Light. The Truth banished the monsters, and unlocked the door of the cage.

The Son of the King remembered how the boy had been deceived by the monsters. He remembered how the noise of the whispering monster had tormented the boy. He remembered how sick the boy had become. And he remembered the smiling boy with the twinkling blue eyes.

He cradled the boy in His arms, and carried him away to a safe place. The boy rested in the care of the Truth, patiently awaiting the great Day, when all the monsters and their master would be destroyed forever.

"And the LORD hath given him rest from all his enemies." 2 Samuel 7:1