...sometimes I wish I had really thick skin and other times I want to be full of compassion and a soft heart... can't have it both ways...my facebook status line this morning.
I'm struggling through some issues right now. There is a big part of me that pretends to have thick skin and pretends that nothing bothers me. There is an even bigger part, though, that is a quintessential people pleaser. I want everyone to be happy... I want everyone to like me... I want everyone to like what I've done.
Before you all start laughing out loud...rest assured that my mind knows the reality that I can not please everyone... and that most people won't like what I've done. While my heart may not always get it... I think my mind does.
Last night, I went to bed at 8:30 and pulled the covers over my head. I didn't think I even had the energy to try to discuss all that was weighing heavy on my heart with my Beloved. I knew an ugly cry was on the horizon and I took the easy exit....
One of the joys of only having one vehicle these days is that if I want to go anywhere during the day, I'm forced out of the warm confines of my bed in the dark. Chad had to be at work at 6:30 this morning and Eric to school at 7 a.m. So, the idea of staying there all day got nipped in the bud.
Honestly, seeking Him in the midst of heartache isn't always my first recourse. Often, in my hurt, I run away from the very One who heals. This morning, the healing came quickly because He found me. He gave me a morning where I couldn't hide under the covers. He showed me an incredible sliver of a moon this morning. He created an unusual cloud pattern... all the clouds moving west this morning. He allowed the clouds to move on so that the sun could rise over the horizon and light my kitchen. And, He met me in the pages of His Word.
And, if all that wasn't enough, Edie blogged this today about being vulnerable.
... continuing my Multitude Monday count...
#446... #465
... being married to one who understands
... early morning prayer with my boy
... a picturesque sliver of the moon
... cloud patterns that defy the norm
... extra sleep
... a God who finds me
... the same God who rescues me from under the covers
... passages of Bible study that meet me right where I am
... encouragement from another blogger
... the Light of His Word and the light of the sun
... a fun double date Friday night at my fave place!
... finding a potential kids' musical for $5.99 at CBD
... friends who uplift
... celebrating the birthdays of two dear friends this weekend
... indoor fun roller skating last night
... discovering less sugar=more energy
... the promise of BIG snow coming
... knowing that He has it all stored (Job 38:22)
... finding the joy in each season
... watching my 11 year daughter reaching out to a hurting friend yesterday
Monday, January 31, 2011
Saturday, January 29, 2011
on a Saturday...
Today...
was a lot of this...
and some of this...
I even managed to get this done...
(just in time for Sunday School tomorrow...).
and this for a dear friend's birthday today...
At the end of the day...
saving the best for last...
another great family Sabbath celebration
...all on a Saturday at the end of January
Friday, January 28, 2011
MOTS anyone?
Apparently MOPS International had a very humble beginning... 8 moms met in 1973 for 2 hours while their children received care. These moms talked, laughed, ate, had a craft and a devotional and decided it was such a great time, they would do it again... and again... and 38 or so years later, there are thousands of MOPS (Mothers of PreSchoolers) all around the globe.
Years ago, I loved MOPS. I was involved in 3 different MOPS groups over the years. Each slightly different, each with incredible women and from each I took away great things to be a better woman of God, wife and mother. I loved learning from others who were slightly further down the road than I on things like... sleeping through the night, potty training and dealing with 3 year old temper tantrums.
There comes a season for every MOPS mom when you realize that you've been sleeping through the night for years now and you can no longer relate to the breast vs. bottle debates. You've moved on to elementary school... soccer games, sleepovers and spelling tests.
For me, these were the golden years. We had a blast in elementary school. Some hard days but, overall, so much fun... and I think it was in the fog of that fun that I missed the train barreling down the tracks aimed right at me.... The Teen Years.... individualism, attitude, disrespect.
... so yesterday I had a potentially brilliant idea... I think I may start a MOTS group. Based on the history of MOPS, I only need a few moms to join me... I think we will talk, laugh, eat... probably no craft though... and instead of a devotional, I think an extended time of pray would be more effective. Lots and lots of prayer for these MOTS (Mothers of TeenagerS). Prayer for Divine wisdom, patience and prayers that our children see their next birthday.
Anyone want to join me?
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
True Treasures special offer... a Gabby Mom Review
IT'S BIG
IT'S BEAUTIFUL
IT'S BRIMMING WITH ENCOURAGEMENT
A couple of weeks ago, I mentioned that I am now a Gabby Mom. Well, actually I've been a mom for almost 14 years and I've been gabby my entire life but in November I was chosen to officially be a Gabby Mom... one who reviews for TEACH magazine. Not only did TEACH magazine chose bloggers to be Gabby Moms and review for them, they also changed their name... TEACH Magazine is now Eternal Encouragement.
My first assignment... True Treasures 10 Years of TEACH Magazine. What a fun first assignment! The best of ten years worth of TEACH magazine compiled under one cover. This book is so much more than a homeschooling book. It's filled with well-written and practical advice on homemaking, godly living, marriage, parenting and homeschooling. Each article is a nugget of its own and can be read in just a few minutes.
My favorite articles? It's hard to choose... here are six of my favorites (one from each section) ...
"Just Say No" by Mrs. Lorrie Flem pages 12-13
"It's Raining, It's Pouring" by Mrs. Lorrie Flem pages 28-29
"Six Things to Say to the Blessings in Your Life" by Marybeth Whalen pages 52-53
"Getting It All Done" by Marilyn Boyer pages 64-65
"A Real Mom's Homeschool" by Maggie Hogan pages 82-83
"In Search of Serenity" by Jessica Cover pages 92-93
There is so much more! This book is a wealth of godly advice and sound wisdom for wives and moms. Those who have gone ahead share their own life lessons with humor, insight and compassion.
Do I think you should read this book? Absolutely!
Do I think you should order a copy today? Definitely!
Would I recommend this book to moms who don't homeschool? Without a doubt!
True Treasures can be found at www.HomemakingWithTEACH.com. And, because you are a ...with thankful hearts... reader I have a special offer for you!! Eternal Encouragement is offering $4 off True Treasures with coupon code "GabbyMom". This offer is good one time per person between now and May 31, 2011.
If you are interested in seeing Eternal Encouragement Magazine for yourself, check this out. The editors of the magazine offer an online free sample... and when you do, there is an instant coupon code for 10% off your subscription.
True Treasures truly is big, beautiful and brimming with encouragement. Thanks to the Gabby Moms for starting out with this great gift to review!
**disclaimer... I received this product for honest review from TEACH Magazine as part of The Gabby Moms blogging program. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
a deep sigh
Sometimes my soul just needs to exhale... to let out all of the steam that has built up... to take a minute to stop and breathe... in through the heart... out through the soul...
Life is not an emergency. I heard this quote last week and it's stuck with me. I'm notorious for hurrying through life racing to the next thing usually acting like everything needs lights and sirens to get it done.
In the early dark and cold this morning, I traveled 70 miles with my parents to my dad's heart cath. As we journeyed, my heart raced and my mind repeated "life is not an emergency" over and over again. After about a thousand repeats, my mind, my heart, and my soul slowed down enough to stop and notice the moment... to absorb the quiet... to breathe prayers of thanksgiving.
I wasn't the only one struggling through this morning... miles separated hearts that were praying. As hard as it is to stand by and watch a gurney go down a hallway, it's a million times harder to wait by a phone... wondering and waiting.
My heart exhales now... 3 stents and no bypass later... breathing thanksgiving in through my heart and out through my soul... a deep sigh...
Life is not an emergency. I heard this quote last week and it's stuck with me. I'm notorious for hurrying through life racing to the next thing usually acting like everything needs lights and sirens to get it done.
In the early dark and cold this morning, I traveled 70 miles with my parents to my dad's heart cath. As we journeyed, my heart raced and my mind repeated "life is not an emergency" over and over again. After about a thousand repeats, my mind, my heart, and my soul slowed down enough to stop and notice the moment... to absorb the quiet... to breathe prayers of thanksgiving.
I wasn't the only one struggling through this morning... miles separated hearts that were praying. As hard as it is to stand by and watch a gurney go down a hallway, it's a million times harder to wait by a phone... wondering and waiting.
My heart exhales now... 3 stents and no bypass later... breathing thanksgiving in through my heart and out through my soul... a deep sigh...
Monday, January 24, 2011
... so often it's the little things that make life sweet...
After picking up Ann's book last week and reading it cover to cover, I'm much more cognizant of the gifts that I've oft overlooked. I find myself adding to my gratitude journal many, many times a day.
This past weekend gave me more gifts that I took time to count. Due to the birth of the newest family member last month, we delayed our family Christmas and finally celebrated it this past weekend. It was TOO fun!!
My list of 1000 Gifts continues...
#421 ~ #445
... deep belly laughs
... an incredible brother in law willing to don such an atrocious looking apparatus
... family traditions
... family fun
... the crazy chaos that 21 people bring
... gracious neighbors who share their sleeping space
... being on the receiving end of gratitude hugs
... incredible homemade gifts... including a doll armoire, quilts and throw blankets
... taking turns holding her
... the smell of a freshly bathed baby
... cousins who can't wait for their turn to hold the little one
... cousin sleep overs
... snuggles
... the thrill of just being together
... a few days to catch up on each other's lives
... the chance to be all together again
... my man who loves me enough to make it work for me to be here longer
... laughing through American Pickers with my parents
... the privilege to be the "magic cleaning fairy" who cleaned up after all those people!
Sunday, January 23, 2011
if these walls could speak...
Quiet now... silence... peace. For all the times I long for peace and quiet, I'm missing what was. I'm missing my nieces and nephews... my sisters and brothers... my man and my kids. I'm missing what was just here this weekend.
This time I stayed behind, by myself, for a few days. I love this place. I love being at the lake winter or summer. I love the memories made here....
If these walls, here in the silence, could speak you would hear of fun, laughter, cousin time galore... hours spent playing Wii or American Girls... long moments soaking up the snuggles of the newest member of the family. The wall with the painted on blackboard will tell you of hours of chalk drawings, games of tic-tac-toe and messy sponge baths from 5 year olds. The other hallway walls would mention spontaneous football or basketball games, corn hole tournaments and jump rope competitions. The closet-under-the-stairs walls would whisper stories of late night sleepovers and dress up parties. And, not to be left out, I'm sure the other walls would regal you with stories of their own... lots of Christmas and birthday parties, more food than imaginable, uproarious fun.
It's all here... and in the silence I hear it... and until the next time... I miss it.
This time I stayed behind, by myself, for a few days. I love this place. I love being at the lake winter or summer. I love the memories made here....
If these walls, here in the silence, could speak you would hear of fun, laughter, cousin time galore... hours spent playing Wii or American Girls... long moments soaking up the snuggles of the newest member of the family. The wall with the painted on blackboard will tell you of hours of chalk drawings, games of tic-tac-toe and messy sponge baths from 5 year olds. The other hallway walls would mention spontaneous football or basketball games, corn hole tournaments and jump rope competitions. The closet-under-the-stairs walls would whisper stories of late night sleepovers and dress up parties. And, not to be left out, I'm sure the other walls would regal you with stories of their own... lots of Christmas and birthday parties, more food than imaginable, uproarious fun.
It's all here... and in the silence I hear it... and until the next time... I miss it.
Friday, January 21, 2011
hibernation...
Deep in January a -15 wind chill this morning when I drove the man to work and the man-cub to school. A cold, hard seat woke me up. Kinda a rude awakening, I think.
I've been contemplating hibernation this morning. I think I could be easily convinced to hibernate. I mean... eating and then sleeping... how great would that be? Especially in the dark of January under a down comforter..... zzzzzzzzzzz
Just as I share this contemplation over the phone with my friend, Ginger, I notice the bright and orange... the warmth of the sun shining over the tree tops. The sun! That bright globe in the sky that hasn't been seen around here for a few weeks. And, just like that, my sleepy senses are aroused... intrigued by the glow... warmed by the light.
Much like God, I think... often I find my senses dulled... my body tired... my heart approaching hibernation... when bright and warm His grace fills my world. He awakens me with the gift of sunshine and arouses my mediocrity with the glow of His love... His mercy... His grace.
... and in my awakened spirit... hibernation is kept at bay....
I've been contemplating hibernation this morning. I think I could be easily convinced to hibernate. I mean... eating and then sleeping... how great would that be? Especially in the dark of January under a down comforter..... zzzzzzzzzzz
Just as I share this contemplation over the phone with my friend, Ginger, I notice the bright and orange... the warmth of the sun shining over the tree tops. The sun! That bright globe in the sky that hasn't been seen around here for a few weeks. And, just like that, my sleepy senses are aroused... intrigued by the glow... warmed by the light.
Much like God, I think... often I find my senses dulled... my body tired... my heart approaching hibernation... when bright and warm His grace fills my world. He awakens me with the gift of sunshine and arouses my mediocrity with the glow of His love... His mercy... His grace.
... and in my awakened spirit... hibernation is kept at bay....
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
a review of my own...
I've not ever done this before... I've never posted a review of a book I've read on
Amazon. I've thought about it... often... but never thought my opinion would
matter or I never cared about a book enough to spend the time writing. Until today.
I'm reading a book I can't put down. Reading a familiar voice... one I've heard
in the blogging world for a year or more. Reading... gleaning... learning... leaning.
This is a review of my own... nothing was given or expected for this review. I
was not asked my opinion and am not sure how many people care. This review
is simply because I believe in Ann.. in Ann's voice... and in the book God gave her
to write. And, by writing a simple review, I can give something back.
I'm one of 30 reviews on Amazon. Apparently, I am not alone in my love for Ann.
Currently, One Thousand Gifts is in the Top 10 on the Amazon Bestseller List. It's
been amazing to know the release date for this book... to respond to Ann's requests
for prayer this year... and to see how God is blessing above and beyond what was
imagined. He does that sort of thing, you know...
This is my review that showed up on Amazon today...
a gift in my 1000 gifts..., January 19, 2011
One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are is anything but a quick read. Its deep... its moving... its powerful. Ann Voskamp's voice within the story God Almighty gave her to write resonates with grace... with joy... with eucharisteo. Ann's voice draws us into her world... a world built on childhood pain that has been redeemed by the only One able to give life changing redemption. Ann share's her pain but not for the recognition of her hurting heart. Instead, she shares to point her reader to the Healer, the One who gives gifts without abandon.
In writing One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are, Ann dares us to go deeper... to find gratitude in the every day... to search for those gifts that make our moments... and to recognize that all those moments make a life well lived. She dares us to wake up and search for those gifts endowed by our Creator. And she speaks that dare in a voice filled with humility, grace and love.
Ann's voice... her story... this book is a must read... and I know I will read it again and again and again because I have much to learn and she has much to share.
Amazon. I've thought about it... often... but never thought my opinion would
matter or I never cared about a book enough to spend the time writing. Until today.
I'm reading a book I can't put down. Reading a familiar voice... one I've heard
in the blogging world for a year or more. Reading... gleaning... learning... leaning.
This is a review of my own... nothing was given or expected for this review. I
was not asked my opinion and am not sure how many people care. This review
is simply because I believe in Ann.. in Ann's voice... and in the book God gave her
to write. And, by writing a simple review, I can give something back.
I'm one of 30 reviews on Amazon. Apparently, I am not alone in my love for Ann.
Currently, One Thousand Gifts is in the Top 10 on the Amazon Bestseller List. It's
been amazing to know the release date for this book... to respond to Ann's requests
for prayer this year... and to see how God is blessing above and beyond what was
imagined. He does that sort of thing, you know...
This is my review that showed up on Amazon today...
a gift in my 1000 gifts..., 
Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)
This review is from: One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are (Hardcover)
I read and I read and I read because I can't stop reading. I read more than I can possibly absorb in the moment because my heart is drawn in.... I read knowing I will read it again and again and again.One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are is anything but a quick read. Its deep... its moving... its powerful. Ann Voskamp's voice within the story God Almighty gave her to write resonates with grace... with joy... with eucharisteo. Ann's voice draws us into her world... a world built on childhood pain that has been redeemed by the only One able to give life changing redemption. Ann share's her pain but not for the recognition of her hurting heart. Instead, she shares to point her reader to the Healer, the One who gives gifts without abandon.
In writing One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are, Ann dares us to go deeper... to find gratitude in the every day... to search for those gifts that make our moments... and to recognize that all those moments make a life well lived. She dares us to wake up and search for those gifts endowed by our Creator. And she speaks that dare in a voice filled with humility, grace and love.
Ann's voice... her story... this book is a must read... and I know I will read it again and again and again because I have much to learn and she has much to share.
a few words needed...
I love winter... and snow... and cold. I love cozy sweaters... down comforters... and crackling candles. I love winter's starry evenings... the silence of snow falling... the glow of the moonlight reflecting on snow.
But as much as I really love winter, even I get to the point where I've had enough... that moment in time where I find myself pining for sun... shorts... spring.
In this wonderful mystery called the Blogosphere, I've gotten a window seat into other's lives... bloggers who have allowed me glimpses into their world... glances of the good, the bad and the ugly.
I've loved to be able to encourage those I've never had the privilege of meeting face to face. Even more, I've loved to be encouraged by those same Sister's in Christ who take a moment to send me encouraging words and loving thoughts.
Today I'm asking for a few encouraging words for a fellow blogger. Somedays the mundane is what drags us down... the struggle is in the daily sameness... especially when that mundane and sameness is wrapped up in a Wisconsin winter with lots of cold and snow!
If you have some words to spare, would you consider stopping by inthedetails on this cold January day to offer a little love to warm up my favorite blogger's corner of the blogging world?
I'd ask this even if she weren't my sister... thanks!
But as much as I really love winter, even I get to the point where I've had enough... that moment in time where I find myself pining for sun... shorts... spring.
In this wonderful mystery called the Blogosphere, I've gotten a window seat into other's lives... bloggers who have allowed me glimpses into their world... glances of the good, the bad and the ugly.
I've loved to be able to encourage those I've never had the privilege of meeting face to face. Even more, I've loved to be encouraged by those same Sister's in Christ who take a moment to send me encouraging words and loving thoughts.
Today I'm asking for a few encouraging words for a fellow blogger. Somedays the mundane is what drags us down... the struggle is in the daily sameness... especially when that mundane and sameness is wrapped up in a Wisconsin winter with lots of cold and snow!
If you have some words to spare, would you consider stopping by inthedetails on this cold January day to offer a little love to warm up my favorite blogger's corner of the blogging world?
I'd ask this even if she weren't my sister... thanks!
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
embracing the moments...
I read and read and read because in this moment, I can't imagine not reading... especially this. I can't put it down. It pulls me in and encompasses me and in this moment I can hear nothing else than Ann and her voice... her life story teaching me more about giving thanks and receiving joy.
In the darkness of night with the moon shining on the snow outside my window, I am drawn in. Drawn in to her world... a farm in Ontario with a half dozen children and a farmer husband. While my small town American life with a nurse husband and half that number of children doesn't look much like hers, I find similarities in my heart and in hers.
She wanted more... more to this life. More than just existing and surviving day to day. More than the self induced stress most mothers endure. She sought... she found. She shares her discovery with me. I find myself sitting at her feet through the pages of her book as she points the way to joy with Jesus. I sit here wanting to be more of a Mary and less of a Martha... because I want more.
As my man comes to bed and finds me lost in yet another book, I realize this is it. This is the moment. The moments are ALL the time and I have to start noticing them. Start embracing them. Start thanking the One from whom time began for them. It's not good enough to read another's story and nod in agreement with all that she says. Instead, the way one learns is to seize the moments and practice embracing them... the small, seemingly insignificant moments that add up to a lifetime.
So, for the moment I put Ann aside. I can glean more another time. Ann's book will be there when I come back but I can never come back to this moment in time again. I take a second to recognize and then savor the moment with the one who has faithfully been in this place for almost 17 years. A moment of a heavy arm across my shoulders and the warmth of companionship at my back.
And in this moment... under winter's down comforter in the light of a January moon on snow I hold the hand that has held mine for years and my heart whispers a deep sigh of gratitude to the One who gave me this man... this marriage... this moment...
... and my heart is most grateful for the lesson of gratitude in the everyday moments because it's in the gratitude that I recognize the gift of life is made of everyday moments that are embraced.
In the darkness of night with the moon shining on the snow outside my window, I am drawn in. Drawn in to her world... a farm in Ontario with a half dozen children and a farmer husband. While my small town American life with a nurse husband and half that number of children doesn't look much like hers, I find similarities in my heart and in hers.
She wanted more... more to this life. More than just existing and surviving day to day. More than the self induced stress most mothers endure. She sought... she found. She shares her discovery with me. I find myself sitting at her feet through the pages of her book as she points the way to joy with Jesus. I sit here wanting to be more of a Mary and less of a Martha... because I want more.
As my man comes to bed and finds me lost in yet another book, I realize this is it. This is the moment. The moments are ALL the time and I have to start noticing them. Start embracing them. Start thanking the One from whom time began for them. It's not good enough to read another's story and nod in agreement with all that she says. Instead, the way one learns is to seize the moments and practice embracing them... the small, seemingly insignificant moments that add up to a lifetime.
So, for the moment I put Ann aside. I can glean more another time. Ann's book will be there when I come back but I can never come back to this moment in time again. I take a second to recognize and then savor the moment with the one who has faithfully been in this place for almost 17 years. A moment of a heavy arm across my shoulders and the warmth of companionship at my back.
And in this moment... under winter's down comforter in the light of a January moon on snow I hold the hand that has held mine for years and my heart whispers a deep sigh of gratitude to the One who gave me this man... this marriage... this moment...
... and my heart is most grateful for the lesson of gratitude in the everyday moments because it's in the gratitude that I recognize the gift of life is made of everyday moments that are embraced.
Monday, January 17, 2011
overflow...
my heart overflows...
still counting gifts on this Multitude Monday...
#391-#420
... a friend's birthday surprise
... belly laughing
... coffee night out
... the gift of words to encourage
... a circle of love
... watching my man-cub grow physically, emotionally, spiritually right before my eyes
... the world's most incredible Algebra tutor
... food with which to pay said tutor
... seeing others love on my kids
... a day off of school for the boy
... a $6 sewing machine for the 7 year old
... learning to love awesome auction finds
... friends and family who come alongside and teach my kids life skills
... knowing how much my girls miss each other when they are apart
... fun sleep overs this week
... the release of Ann's 1000 Gifts today
... and a gift card to go get it!
... learning much from the wisdom of others
... being spurred on by blogging friends I've not ever met
... remembering to take risks
... my man who is flexible to make girls nights out happen
... knowing he will be here when I return
... quiet conversations
... the gift of reconnecting
... the familiar that never gets old
... 12 days without refined sugar with the help of God alone
... a journey that deepens my faith
... bringing out jeans that haven't fit in a while
... not journeying alone
... like-minded friends
still counting gifts on this Multitude Monday...
#391-#420
... a friend's birthday surprise
... belly laughing
... coffee night out
... the gift of words to encourage
... a circle of love
... watching my man-cub grow physically, emotionally, spiritually right before my eyes
... the world's most incredible Algebra tutor
... food with which to pay said tutor
... seeing others love on my kids
... a day off of school for the boy
... a $6 sewing machine for the 7 year old
... learning to love awesome auction finds
... friends and family who come alongside and teach my kids life skills
... knowing how much my girls miss each other when they are apart
... fun sleep overs this week
... the release of Ann's 1000 Gifts today
... and a gift card to go get it!
... learning much from the wisdom of others
... being spurred on by blogging friends I've not ever met
... remembering to take risks
... my man who is flexible to make girls nights out happen
... knowing he will be here when I return
... quiet conversations
... the gift of reconnecting
... the familiar that never gets old
... 12 days without refined sugar with the help of God alone
... a journey that deepens my faith
... bringing out jeans that haven't fit in a while
... not journeying alone
... like-minded friends
Friday, January 14, 2011
a state of constant learning..
This morning I blog hopped through Richella's blog and found Amanda's Serenity Now. Love blog hopping!
Amanda is hosting Weekend Bloggy Reading... a meme where you can link in your favorite post of the week and read others. I'm anticipating a slow, laid-back weekend (especially because my beloved Colts are now on vacation) and thought "I'd love to spend some time blog reading this weekend, I'll join in!"
Amanda is more than gracious! Not only can you link in, she will fix your links if you link in backwards. Yep! Backwards!!
So, join in. Post your favorite post from this week and spend the weekend bloggy reading. Or in my case, spend the weekend reading and in a constant state of learning!
... now I just have to figure out how to make the button link back...
gabby.. giggly... glittery?
"Heidi enjoys talking too much during class time."
"Heidi visits frequently with her neighbors rather than doing her schoolwork."
"Heidi has developed verbally very well. She would do well to develop other areas."
Those are things my teachers in school would say on my report cards. Apparently, they thought their comments would cause me to change... or at the least, cause me to stop talking.
Not so much. I've been this way from the beginning... it's who I am. And, those of you who have followed for any length of time know... I have the gift of gab. I like to think its a great gift. Seldom am I at a loss for words... and when I am, I have the unique ability to fake it... at least until I stick my foot in my mouth.
"I can not STOP laughing!"
"THAT is SOOOO funny!"
"Stop it! STOP IT!! Or I'm going to pee my pants!!"
Those are true to life things I have said... and said more than once. I love to laugh! My college best friend is the funniest woman I know. I seriously laugh so hard when I am with Ruth that my stomach muscles are sore for days.
I laugh when I'm with my family. In fact, next weekend we will all get together to celebrate a belated Christmas (Audrey's birth caused us to push Christmas back a little) and the adults will gather round after bedtime for a raucous time of fun and laughter... seriously, tears streaming down cheeks type of laughter. Can't wait!!
I laugh when I'm with my man. One of the very first things that attracted me to him almost 20 years ago was his sense of humor. He is hilarious! And together, we love laughing with and at our kids.
"I love that! It sparkles"
"oooh! More glitter please!"
"The shinier... the better!"
Okay... this post very well could have been titled "2 truths and a lie". Here's the lie. I don't do sparkles... I don't do glitter... I don't do shine. I'm not very girly. Haven't ever been. Probably never will be. Gabbing is in my genetic makeup and so is giggling... glittering, though, skipped a generation and is all over my two girls.
Why all the talk about gabbing, giggling and glittering? Gabby Moms! I've been chosen to write reviews for Gabby Moms. Gabby Moms is a review team for Eternal Encouragement Magazine (formerly TEACH Magazine). Stay tuned... first review is next week!
Gabby Moms...
We Gab... We Giggle... We Glitter...
... and to quote an old MeatLoaf song...
2 out of 3 ain't bad!
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
finding my voice...
It's been two years since I blogged my first post. Two years of writing... of learning... of growing.... Two years of seeking and of finding... seeking my "voice"... that distinct way of writing that sums up who I am and whose I am... and instead of finding it... I find Him.
I struggle because I want to be distinct... unique... uncommon... noticed. Yet, I don't know how to be. I don't know how to be a blogger who attracts thousands of readers... speaks at conferences... writes books. I don't even know if I want to be... but my selfishness demands that blogging somehow be about me and my distinctness.
I've tried on different voices over these two years... tried to write like others... tried to be unique.... struggled through finding words for the chaos in my head. Sometimes the words come and I masquerade through cyberspace.... sounding unique... or wise... or at the least, sounding like I know of that which I speak. Other times... words fall flat... splat!
At the end of the struggle, I can only be me... a struggling mom, wife, teacher, sister, daughter... nothing distinct, unique, uncommon. A sinner saved by grace... living in His mercy... seeking His favor.
Seeking His favor means just that... I seek Him, not myself. I no longer seek for a voice... because the Voice is there... I only have to listen to hear it. I no longer search for my voice among thousands. Instead, I strain to hear the One Voice that is distinct... unique... uncommon... the voice of Truth.
I struggle because I want to be distinct... unique... uncommon... noticed. Yet, I don't know how to be. I don't know how to be a blogger who attracts thousands of readers... speaks at conferences... writes books. I don't even know if I want to be... but my selfishness demands that blogging somehow be about me and my distinctness.
I've tried on different voices over these two years... tried to write like others... tried to be unique.... struggled through finding words for the chaos in my head. Sometimes the words come and I masquerade through cyberspace.... sounding unique... or wise... or at the least, sounding like I know of that which I speak. Other times... words fall flat... splat!
At the end of the struggle, I can only be me... a struggling mom, wife, teacher, sister, daughter... nothing distinct, unique, uncommon. A sinner saved by grace... living in His mercy... seeking His favor.
Seeking His favor means just that... I seek Him, not myself. I no longer seek for a voice... because the Voice is there... I only have to listen to hear it. I no longer search for my voice among thousands. Instead, I strain to hear the One Voice that is distinct... unique... uncommon... the voice of Truth.
Virtual Nerd... TOS Crew Review
One of the most common things I hear homeschool moms say is "I don't know how to help my child with their high school math!"
Enter...Virtual Nerd...
Virtual Nerd is a subscription-based internet resource for learning and working through math and science concepts. Virtual Nerd currently offers tutorials for Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1, Algebra 2 and Intro Physics with plans to add tutorials for Geometry, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, more Physics and Chemistry. Virtual Nerd is set up to be used either by students, by parents or by educators and is available 24/7.
Virtual Nerd provides an extensive library of tutorials that are easy to access. Rather than having to scroll through pages of lessons, or fast-forward a long CD of algebra tutorials, you can choose the exact type of problem you are wanting to solve from their ample lists and watch the tutorial you need.
Virtual Nerd utilizes their innovated "Dynamic Whiteboard"... a fun and entertaining whiteboard that enables students to stay focused on the problem at hand.
Virtual Nerd is available by subscription and offers different subscription options. An individual subscription is $49/month... a one-time subscription for just one day is only $5... and a one-time subscription for 3 months is a great deal at $129.
Virtual Nerd takes the guess work out of helping students with high school level math classes.
Click here to see what other TOS Crew members have to say about Virtual Nerd.
**I was given a subscription to Virtual Nerd for my honest review of their product. I received no other compensation.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
SNOW!
...so I ranted and raved about snow envy...
...sharing my heart's jealousy over the snowfall all around the country...
...and while it isn't 38+ inches... look what happened!
It snowed ALL day...
... and it's still snowing!
...but apparently not everyone appreciates the SNOW!
snow envy...
Sometimes my blog becomes my confessional... a personal place to confess struggles my heart is wrestling... sometimes serious... sometimes not so much.
Today I am seriously struggling with snow envy. Yep... I am envious of all the snow fall that seems to be falling all around the good ol' US of A... including in those typically sunny and warm Southern states.
It's not like it hasn't snowed in Indiana this year. It has.... just not so much in my yard. Last weekend, South Bend (the home of Notre Dame University, for those wondering) saw a record snowfall of 38+ inches of snow in one weekend. Over a yard of snow!! South Bend is northwest of us and is in much closer proximity to the Great Lake and more susceptible to the weather phenomena of "lake effect snow" ... but only by about 45 miles. You might think that 45 miles isn't very far... I would agree... usually. However, in this case, it was far enough. When they got 38 inches of snow, we got 3.
Indianapolis is south of us. According to all of the geography rules I learned in school, we should get more snow that Indy. Instead, Indy got 6 inches of snow last month and we got 2.
I won't even get into the snow fall in South Carolina yesterday. Obviously, those Southern States didn't hear the same geography rules that I did.
The funny thing is I really am feeling some snow envy. As I was driving my man to work and my man-cub to school this morning, I was driving in a beautiful snow fall. It was still dark and the snow was falling quietly around all of the street lights. It took me a minute to realize how pretty it was and to be thankful for the little snow in my life.
Someday I may live in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan... Buffalo, New York... or anywhere in Minnesota and have more than enough snow to satisfy even me. Until then, I know I am right where I am supposed to be. Snow envy or not.
Snow envy is just another symptom of my heart finding its satisfaction in God and nothing more, nothing less, nothing else.
Today I am seriously struggling with snow envy. Yep... I am envious of all the snow fall that seems to be falling all around the good ol' US of A... including in those typically sunny and warm Southern states.
It's not like it hasn't snowed in Indiana this year. It has.... just not so much in my yard. Last weekend, South Bend (the home of Notre Dame University, for those wondering) saw a record snowfall of 38+ inches of snow in one weekend. Over a yard of snow!! South Bend is northwest of us and is in much closer proximity to the Great Lake and more susceptible to the weather phenomena of "lake effect snow" ... but only by about 45 miles. You might think that 45 miles isn't very far... I would agree... usually. However, in this case, it was far enough. When they got 38 inches of snow, we got 3.
Indianapolis is south of us. According to all of the geography rules I learned in school, we should get more snow that Indy. Instead, Indy got 6 inches of snow last month and we got 2.
I won't even get into the snow fall in South Carolina yesterday. Obviously, those Southern States didn't hear the same geography rules that I did.
The funny thing is I really am feeling some snow envy. As I was driving my man to work and my man-cub to school this morning, I was driving in a beautiful snow fall. It was still dark and the snow was falling quietly around all of the street lights. It took me a minute to realize how pretty it was and to be thankful for the little snow in my life.
Someday I may live in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan... Buffalo, New York... or anywhere in Minnesota and have more than enough snow to satisfy even me. Until then, I know I am right where I am supposed to be. Snow envy or not.
Snow envy is just another symptom of my heart finding its satisfaction in God and nothing more, nothing less, nothing else.
Monday, January 10, 2011
Easy Classical... TOS Crew Review
Over the years, one of the biggest homeschool struggles for me has been scheduling all that I want to get done in a day, week or even a school year. Scheduling takes time... and time is something that is a prize commodity for homeschool moms.
Enter Easy Classical! The Williams family of Easy Classical has taken all the work out of scheduling for homeschool families... especially those who ascribe to the classical education model.
Sandy Williams sent me a download version of the "Early Modern History Schedule" for review. The Easy Classical Early Modern History Schedule includes 36 week-long schedules for K-6th grade. The schedule includes 45+ pages of charts, sheets, and helps that will enhance your child's learning. Each week's lesson has review questions with answers, and quizzes included with each lesson. This schedule also includes a shopping list for the next day, as well as detailed instructions on how to use the schedules and the books you purchase. All of this comes neatly packaged in a 1" 3 ring binder.
While I am not a classical education homeschooler, I do find the Early Modern History Schedule by Easy Classical to be impressive... especially the price. The 1' 3 ring binder notebook version is just $34.95 and the digital version is only $29.95.
After seeing the Easy Classical Early Modern Schedule, I think I've changed my mind on the value of a schedule that is completely ready for my use in our homeschool.
Click here to see what other TOS Crew members think.
**disclaimer... I was given this product for my honest review. I received no other compensation.
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