Like every other non-baseball loving person, I waited until the Phillies made it to the championships before I gave them the time of day. In the fall I want to talk football and soccer, not baseball!
The academy where my kids attend kept having “Phillies Day”, and of course I had nothing for them to wear other then the color red. Finally one of my girlfriends called me and told me she was sending extra Phillies shirts for my kids to wear “Great, thanks!”
My kids picked their shirts based on the style and size that suited them, not the name, we didn’t know any of them!
The first time I watched the games with my boys, I tried to explain the rules of the game and it felt like me trying to explain the English language to them. Some rules just don’t make any sense!
Through it all, fighting against elements that would send a mailman running, the Phillies pulled the championship off for themselves tonight! The Philadelphia fans were rocking the stadium and when the final Rays batter struck out clinching the win, the place went wild! Of course me being for the underdog felt badly for the other team. Not that I wanted us to loose, but I can’t imagine how sad Tampa Bay must feel. Oh well, I’ll get over it!
As with any team there are clearly certain players everyone counts on to “Bring it home!”, yet without everyone working hard together as a team there is no team!
Growing up my dad wanted me to be in the band so that is what I did instead of sports. In my adult life I’ve come to realize that I was born for sports and love it. Having the privilege of learning the game of tennis and playing competitively has taught me so much about sportsmanship that I did not learn growing up. Believe it or not, grown women can get quite fired up on the tennis court. It astounds me when I see it. No one likes to win a tennis match more then me, but if you can’t go out there and have fun while being competitive, in my humble opinion, you don’t belong out there!!
Congratulations Phillies!!!!!!
Sweet Dreams,
Debbie
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
I Don't Do Blood!
A local favorite diner was advertising 50% off their dinners tonight so I piled the kids in the car and met my parents for a dinner out. I didn’t care what I ate, having someone serve me a meal is always a blessing, with no clean up!!
Upon our arrival home it was dark, windy, and cold. I couldn’t wait to get the kids a bath and climb into my pajamas. We would have just enough time to snuggle and watch some TV before bedtime.
As my car pulled up to the driveway and came to a stop Sam jumped out of the car closing the door on Zachary. Zachary swung the door open and hit Sam in the head with the door.
Sam started screaming, and initially I thought he was over reacting. Not feeling terribly alarmed I gathered everything I could carry in my arms and headed out of the car to calm Sam down. Then I saw blood everywhere! On his hands, in his nose, his mouth, and all over his face. I immediately started screaming which made Sam scream louder! Panic rushed though my brain. “What should I do?” “Call 911”. “No, don’t call 911 yet!” I quickly realized I must calm down for the sake of Sam. Once he saw me panic, his anxiety escalated.
I have experienced many many injuries with my kids. For some reason I can handle broken bones but I don’t do well with blood. I’m initially petrified it’s much worse then it is. Seeing blood everywhere and having your kid screaming is not a pleasant situation.
I assured Sam as I was saturating paper towels with his blood that he was going to be just fine. First I thought he had a very large horizontal gash in his head, and then I realized it was a piece of bloody wet hair. Then I thought it was a gash on his eyelid, and my heart sank. I started to cry and pray that this would not be so bad. Then I realized that there was a much smaller cut, (only an inch) high on Sam’s forehead. Thank you Jesus! I reminded myself that head wounds bleed excessively.
I had Emeline call Steve while I was applying pressure to the cut (I learned that from when I did call 911 once due to a head trauma). Steve came right home from work to take Sam to the ER.
After a conversation with the Plastic Surgeon, Steve was advised stitching would define a future scar more. The type cut Sam has will scar with or without stitches. For cosmetic reasons, the decision was made to glue Sam’s head back together.
I don’t know that I’ll ever be good at seeing and working with blood. I’m thankful in the heat of the moment, I knew God would take care of Sam, and I was so very thankful it was not any more serious.
Sweet Dreams,
Debbie
Upon our arrival home it was dark, windy, and cold. I couldn’t wait to get the kids a bath and climb into my pajamas. We would have just enough time to snuggle and watch some TV before bedtime.
As my car pulled up to the driveway and came to a stop Sam jumped out of the car closing the door on Zachary. Zachary swung the door open and hit Sam in the head with the door.
Sam started screaming, and initially I thought he was over reacting. Not feeling terribly alarmed I gathered everything I could carry in my arms and headed out of the car to calm Sam down. Then I saw blood everywhere! On his hands, in his nose, his mouth, and all over his face. I immediately started screaming which made Sam scream louder! Panic rushed though my brain. “What should I do?” “Call 911”. “No, don’t call 911 yet!” I quickly realized I must calm down for the sake of Sam. Once he saw me panic, his anxiety escalated.
I have experienced many many injuries with my kids. For some reason I can handle broken bones but I don’t do well with blood. I’m initially petrified it’s much worse then it is. Seeing blood everywhere and having your kid screaming is not a pleasant situation.
I assured Sam as I was saturating paper towels with his blood that he was going to be just fine. First I thought he had a very large horizontal gash in his head, and then I realized it was a piece of bloody wet hair. Then I thought it was a gash on his eyelid, and my heart sank. I started to cry and pray that this would not be so bad. Then I realized that there was a much smaller cut, (only an inch) high on Sam’s forehead. Thank you Jesus! I reminded myself that head wounds bleed excessively.
I had Emeline call Steve while I was applying pressure to the cut (I learned that from when I did call 911 once due to a head trauma). Steve came right home from work to take Sam to the ER.
After a conversation with the Plastic Surgeon, Steve was advised stitching would define a future scar more. The type cut Sam has will scar with or without stitches. For cosmetic reasons, the decision was made to glue Sam’s head back together.
I don’t know that I’ll ever be good at seeing and working with blood. I’m thankful in the heat of the moment, I knew God would take care of Sam, and I was so very thankful it was not any more serious.
Sweet Dreams,
Debbie
A Little R & R
Spending the weekend in sunny southern California on the beach with a dear friend leaves you feeling like life just can’t get any better.
Upon arrival Friday afternoon Bridget and I put our bathing suits on, headed for the beach taking a dip in the ocean. Diving through the waves like a couple of high school girls, squealing over the cold brought back so many fond memories. Watching the dolphins swim by and a seal kept our eyes gazed on the shining sea wondering what would swim by next! Unfortunately my trip to the house for a shower caused me to miss a whale sighting!!
Having no agenda besides long walks on the strand, a nap on the beach, or watching a spectacular sunset relaxes your mind. Heart to heart conversations and many laughs relaxes your soul for sure. What is it about being with someone who totally accepts you for you? No feelings of being judged, just acceptance. That has been the core of our relationship for over twenty years. We have seen each other go through many ups and downs yet our friendship has stood strong and weathered the storms of life. Through it all our desire for one another is to encourage each other in the ways of the Lord. Bridget is an example of speaking the truth in love.
Growing up I was a “people pleaser”. God has shown me over the years that it is Him I am to seek to please and not man. Although God calls us to be peacemakers, our ultimate goal should be to please Him only. I now see my daughter struggling with these issues and because of what I have learned, God has given me wisdom and discernment to guide Emeline. As I share verses from the Bible with her I am also reminded of the need to be in prayer for this in my own life.
“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you”. Matthew 6:33
“and whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men”. Colossians 3:23
As the alarm went off at 4:30 AM to begin my day of traveling back east, the refreshment of the weekend lingers yet the reality of going home to my family makes me long to see my husband and the kids. Having a husband that freely lets me go away for a few days without the kids and then actually manages them quite well is an added blessing. THANK YOU STEVE!!
I am humbled for this trip, my heart is grateful to Nancy and Greg for not only allowing us to come stay at their beach house but throwing in the shiny convertible sports car! Bridget and I looked pretty snazzy zipping around town, especially with Bridget’s red hair blowing in the wind! My hair doesn’t blow as well.
Blessings,
Debbie
Upon arrival Friday afternoon Bridget and I put our bathing suits on, headed for the beach taking a dip in the ocean. Diving through the waves like a couple of high school girls, squealing over the cold brought back so many fond memories. Watching the dolphins swim by and a seal kept our eyes gazed on the shining sea wondering what would swim by next! Unfortunately my trip to the house for a shower caused me to miss a whale sighting!!
Having no agenda besides long walks on the strand, a nap on the beach, or watching a spectacular sunset relaxes your mind. Heart to heart conversations and many laughs relaxes your soul for sure. What is it about being with someone who totally accepts you for you? No feelings of being judged, just acceptance. That has been the core of our relationship for over twenty years. We have seen each other go through many ups and downs yet our friendship has stood strong and weathered the storms of life. Through it all our desire for one another is to encourage each other in the ways of the Lord. Bridget is an example of speaking the truth in love.
Growing up I was a “people pleaser”. God has shown me over the years that it is Him I am to seek to please and not man. Although God calls us to be peacemakers, our ultimate goal should be to please Him only. I now see my daughter struggling with these issues and because of what I have learned, God has given me wisdom and discernment to guide Emeline. As I share verses from the Bible with her I am also reminded of the need to be in prayer for this in my own life.
“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you”. Matthew 6:33
“and whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men”. Colossians 3:23
As the alarm went off at 4:30 AM to begin my day of traveling back east, the refreshment of the weekend lingers yet the reality of going home to my family makes me long to see my husband and the kids. Having a husband that freely lets me go away for a few days without the kids and then actually manages them quite well is an added blessing. THANK YOU STEVE!!
I am humbled for this trip, my heart is grateful to Nancy and Greg for not only allowing us to come stay at their beach house but throwing in the shiny convertible sports car! Bridget and I looked pretty snazzy zipping around town, especially with Bridget’s red hair blowing in the wind! My hair doesn’t blow as well.
Blessings,
Debbie
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Traveling Solo
Traveling is something I love to do. In fact the very thought of it and possibilities of places to go gives me an adrenaline rush! For me, the planning and anticipation of the trip is almost as much fun as the trip itself. Our kids are at the perfect traveling age. They still think we’re cool and want to be with us. They enjoy going to new places and they all love an exciting adventure! Whether they’re hiking the water falls in Oregon or surfing in the Atlantic Ocean, my guys and doll fully engage and enjoy every experience! As a mom, my greatest joy is watching them have fun. I believe God is all about us enjoying life. He tells us in the Bible, He desires for us to have an abundant life, and is delighted to see us as His children enjoying life.
Our family life has changed over the last several months. Many adjustments needed to be made. We entered into a phase of financial crisis. Steve has done an amazing job at providing and moving us forward but our situation has thrown me into a single mom role (Monday thru Friday) for months now. It can make you feel like you’re just out there traveling solo in life. There were certainly times of despair, but God was and is faithful to see us through. Whether it was through prayer, reading the Bible, or my close friends, God spoke volumes to me and I wouldn’t trade this for anything. Was it easy? Absolutely not. Having so much of what you are use to taken away forces you to re-evaluate whether what you had was necessary to begin with. Needless to say, all travel plans are on hold.
During the last few months of our lives I have experienced peace and joy in ways like never before. Through the rough times, I was still able to be Camp Director for my kids. I love to bake chocolate chip cookies before they come home from school, and then take them out apple picking, biking, fishing, or anything else we can find to do that’s fun.
I am aware each and every day that we only get one chance at that day. We can choose if we want to be happy or sad. Some days sadness can overwhelm us, and that’s o.k. But God tells us that His mercies are new every morning. He gives us new doses every day!! I’m a walking testimony of that. “Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning, great is Your faithfulness” Lamentations 3:22-23.
Today I’m physically traveling solo. For my birthday Steve gave me a frequent flier ticket to go meet Bridget, one of my very dearest friends, in L.A. for the weekend. Oh, and a beach house and car is provided for us. THANK YOU NANCY!!! YOU’RE THE BEST!!! I’m leaving behind a sick child and an injured one. Thank goodness I have a husband who was more then willing to step up to the plate and mange things while I’m away.
As I got on the plane I was missing the family and feeling like maybe I should not have made these arrangements. After praying awhile, I read a devotional which I believe God hand picked just for me today. It was titled “Lying down in green pastures” “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside the still waters, He restores my soul. He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His names sake”. Psalm 23:1-3 Over the next few days I plan to lie down in green pastures, well on the beach! I also look forward to eating my favorite havarti and corn egg scramble at Martha’s on the strand!!
Blessings,
Debbie
Our family life has changed over the last several months. Many adjustments needed to be made. We entered into a phase of financial crisis. Steve has done an amazing job at providing and moving us forward but our situation has thrown me into a single mom role (Monday thru Friday) for months now. It can make you feel like you’re just out there traveling solo in life. There were certainly times of despair, but God was and is faithful to see us through. Whether it was through prayer, reading the Bible, or my close friends, God spoke volumes to me and I wouldn’t trade this for anything. Was it easy? Absolutely not. Having so much of what you are use to taken away forces you to re-evaluate whether what you had was necessary to begin with. Needless to say, all travel plans are on hold.
During the last few months of our lives I have experienced peace and joy in ways like never before. Through the rough times, I was still able to be Camp Director for my kids. I love to bake chocolate chip cookies before they come home from school, and then take them out apple picking, biking, fishing, or anything else we can find to do that’s fun.
I am aware each and every day that we only get one chance at that day. We can choose if we want to be happy or sad. Some days sadness can overwhelm us, and that’s o.k. But God tells us that His mercies are new every morning. He gives us new doses every day!! I’m a walking testimony of that. “Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning, great is Your faithfulness” Lamentations 3:22-23.
Today I’m physically traveling solo. For my birthday Steve gave me a frequent flier ticket to go meet Bridget, one of my very dearest friends, in L.A. for the weekend. Oh, and a beach house and car is provided for us. THANK YOU NANCY!!! YOU’RE THE BEST!!! I’m leaving behind a sick child and an injured one. Thank goodness I have a husband who was more then willing to step up to the plate and mange things while I’m away.
As I got on the plane I was missing the family and feeling like maybe I should not have made these arrangements. After praying awhile, I read a devotional which I believe God hand picked just for me today. It was titled “Lying down in green pastures” “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside the still waters, He restores my soul. He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His names sake”. Psalm 23:1-3 Over the next few days I plan to lie down in green pastures, well on the beach! I also look forward to eating my favorite havarti and corn egg scramble at Martha’s on the strand!!
Blessings,
Debbie
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Pooped Out!
This morning I woke up with a good night’s sleep under my belt which makes me feel ready to tackle the day! I had enough time to let the dog out and jump on the stair stepper for a workout before waking all the little people up in the house. As I approached the kitchen I caught a whiff of dog poop. Ice (our black lab) was in his crate crying. He obviously had an intestinal problem and then laid in it (YUCK!). No problem, I took him outside and hosed him off enough until I could give him a bath, then took the crate outside until I had time to tend to it. I worked out for a little while then started the beginning preparations of breakfast.
Once the kids were up I had my coffee in hand ready to help especially the boys. Being on a schedule to catch the bus, we need to move along at a certain pace. As I was helping Sam get a shirt on he accidentally poked me in the eye with his fingers which really hurt. After that I went into Zachary’s room, and as I was helping him on with a sweatshirt, he accidentally punched me in the mouth (UGH!).
Feeling a little “beat up” we all headed downstairs to one of my favorite parts of the day. BEING THE SHORT ORDER COOK! I love whipping up whatever my guys and doll want for breakfast. Once the bus comes and they leave for the day, my kitchen looks like a bulldozer went through it. I don’t mind, as I recall all the special requests of the morning, and all the different ways I made the eggs! Sending them off with a full belly, a prayer, and a hug from their mommy is such a blessing.
It came time to tend to the dog. First of all, he’s not tops on my list right now as he has been eating my mum plants and stealing my gourds and playing with them around the yard like they are his balls. In addition he has ruined my decorative pillows on the bench. Setting that all aside, I bathed him and the crate, only to realize that he still stunk and so did the crate. After his second bath as well as the crate, I was hopeful I got it all.
Time for my devotions, reading the Bible and praying. Having a good night’s sleep, and having a devotional time with God makes all the difference in a good day! “To choose life is to love the LORD your God, obey Him, and stay close to Him” Deut. 30:20
After a brief call to our orthopedic surgeon who will see Zachary tomorrow and an unofficial diagnosis of a growth plate fracture, I ran into Sam’s room to check on Charlie the parakeet that was flying around Sam’s room! He had escaped from his cage for the second day in a row! I don’t do parakeets, so I closed the door and let the bird fly around Sam’s room all day. Finally, I left to go meet my mom at Barnes and Noble to work on our “Special Project”.
When the kids arrived home, it was time for them to do their homework, chores, then off for Tuesday afternoon apple picking! Emeline’s chore was to clean five dog poops off the lawn. Apparently Sam stepped in one of the poops and brought it into my car. Not only did he have dog poop on him, it was now in the car as well. I must say at this point I had utterly had it with dog poop, I spend a good part of the day feeling nauseous and I didn’t want to smell it anymore!!!
We finally got everything cleaned up, and by the way Charlie is back in his cage!
At this late hour, I’m feeling all POOPED OUT!!
Sweet Dreams and Blessings,
Debbie
Once the kids were up I had my coffee in hand ready to help especially the boys. Being on a schedule to catch the bus, we need to move along at a certain pace. As I was helping Sam get a shirt on he accidentally poked me in the eye with his fingers which really hurt. After that I went into Zachary’s room, and as I was helping him on with a sweatshirt, he accidentally punched me in the mouth (UGH!).
Feeling a little “beat up” we all headed downstairs to one of my favorite parts of the day. BEING THE SHORT ORDER COOK! I love whipping up whatever my guys and doll want for breakfast. Once the bus comes and they leave for the day, my kitchen looks like a bulldozer went through it. I don’t mind, as I recall all the special requests of the morning, and all the different ways I made the eggs! Sending them off with a full belly, a prayer, and a hug from their mommy is such a blessing.
It came time to tend to the dog. First of all, he’s not tops on my list right now as he has been eating my mum plants and stealing my gourds and playing with them around the yard like they are his balls. In addition he has ruined my decorative pillows on the bench. Setting that all aside, I bathed him and the crate, only to realize that he still stunk and so did the crate. After his second bath as well as the crate, I was hopeful I got it all.
Time for my devotions, reading the Bible and praying. Having a good night’s sleep, and having a devotional time with God makes all the difference in a good day! “To choose life is to love the LORD your God, obey Him, and stay close to Him” Deut. 30:20
After a brief call to our orthopedic surgeon who will see Zachary tomorrow and an unofficial diagnosis of a growth plate fracture, I ran into Sam’s room to check on Charlie the parakeet that was flying around Sam’s room! He had escaped from his cage for the second day in a row! I don’t do parakeets, so I closed the door and let the bird fly around Sam’s room all day. Finally, I left to go meet my mom at Barnes and Noble to work on our “Special Project”.
When the kids arrived home, it was time for them to do their homework, chores, then off for Tuesday afternoon apple picking! Emeline’s chore was to clean five dog poops off the lawn. Apparently Sam stepped in one of the poops and brought it into my car. Not only did he have dog poop on him, it was now in the car as well. I must say at this point I had utterly had it with dog poop, I spend a good part of the day feeling nauseous and I didn’t want to smell it anymore!!!
We finally got everything cleaned up, and by the way Charlie is back in his cage!
At this late hour, I’m feeling all POOPED OUT!!
Sweet Dreams and Blessings,
Debbie
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Moms In Touch
Making a commitment to be somewhere mid afternoon on a weekly basis is difficult for me. I have lots of excuses to justify that statement but none of which sounds like a good one. The fact of the matter is I’m a morning person and I prefer to get all my business done then. Once I’ve started my day it’s hard to switch gears.
For years I’ve been invited to a Moms In Touch prayer group. When the kids were young it was during nap time, and for the last few years it was when I needed to go pick up the kids from school. Now that they all ride the bus I have more free time then before. I made a committment to God that I was going to follow through with getting together with women on a weekly basis to pray for my children.
Praying is something I try to sit and do everyday, or at the very least in the shower! As someone comes to mind during the day, I pray and ask the Lord to bless them or pray specifically for their circumstances. I pray with my children at night and at meals, but I must say, there are times when the same prayer is prayed due to total exhaustion at the end of the day!
“Where two or more are gathered in My name, there I am in the midst of them” Matthew 18:20
There are not many of us if we’re honest that will claim to have it all together when it comes to our prayer lives, it can seem very abstract and confusing as to what to do and how to do it.
Sitting with a group of women who have come together to share the treasures of their heart, their children, is a blessing! It is not a social time to “catch up” but a time to lift our guys and dolls to Jesus and ask Him to teach them, guide them, and to see the need for Him in their lives. Each week we choose only one child to pray specifically for. Those who know me well know I am not a crier (especially in movies (ha!)) but when I’m praying for my children, the floodgates just open up, I’m so humbled that we have such an awesome God who loves us and loves our children even more then we do!! That’s just amazing!
“Pour out your heart like water before the face of the Lord…Lift up your hands toward Him for the lives of your children.” Lamentations 2:19
www.momsintouch.org
"Praying for our children is a noble task. If what we are doing, in this fast-paced society, is taking us away from prayer time for our children, we're doing too much. There is nothing more special, more precious than time that a parent spends struggling and pondering with God on behalf of a child" Max Lucado
Sweet Dreams and Blessings,
Debbie
For years I’ve been invited to a Moms In Touch prayer group. When the kids were young it was during nap time, and for the last few years it was when I needed to go pick up the kids from school. Now that they all ride the bus I have more free time then before. I made a committment to God that I was going to follow through with getting together with women on a weekly basis to pray for my children.
Praying is something I try to sit and do everyday, or at the very least in the shower! As someone comes to mind during the day, I pray and ask the Lord to bless them or pray specifically for their circumstances. I pray with my children at night and at meals, but I must say, there are times when the same prayer is prayed due to total exhaustion at the end of the day!
“Where two or more are gathered in My name, there I am in the midst of them” Matthew 18:20
There are not many of us if we’re honest that will claim to have it all together when it comes to our prayer lives, it can seem very abstract and confusing as to what to do and how to do it.
Sitting with a group of women who have come together to share the treasures of their heart, their children, is a blessing! It is not a social time to “catch up” but a time to lift our guys and dolls to Jesus and ask Him to teach them, guide them, and to see the need for Him in their lives. Each week we choose only one child to pray specifically for. Those who know me well know I am not a crier (especially in movies (ha!)) but when I’m praying for my children, the floodgates just open up, I’m so humbled that we have such an awesome God who loves us and loves our children even more then we do!! That’s just amazing!
“Pour out your heart like water before the face of the Lord…Lift up your hands toward Him for the lives of your children.” Lamentations 2:19
www.momsintouch.org
"Praying for our children is a noble task. If what we are doing, in this fast-paced society, is taking us away from prayer time for our children, we're doing too much. There is nothing more special, more precious than time that a parent spends struggling and pondering with God on behalf of a child" Max Lucado
Sweet Dreams and Blessings,
Debbie
Monday, October 13, 2008
Hunting For Sharks Teeth
With the weather being extra warm for this time of year, the outside activities are overwhelming. There’s the usual harvest type activities like pumpkin picking, apple picking, and hay rides, but with the unusually warm weather, you’re compelled to keep the summer going! Yesterday we went to the beach, and yes, the kids went in the water!!
Today the kids were off school and we had to choose what we should do with our afternoon. Our friends asked us to go apple picking which sounded like fun but we decided to venture out for one last summer fling and go hunting for Sharks Teeth!
We started the afternoon off with having all hunters and moms over for lunch. Trying to feed six energetic children was utterly chaotic but we managed to get a little food in them, and away we went.
When we arrived at the stream where the hunt would begin, we piled out of the car with screens, buckets, shovels and personalized baggies for each hunter. My three kids had done this before, but the other three were novices. I was anxious to see how this would all play out. “Would my kids help the others?” “Would the others even find any teeth?” I was praying the day would be fun for everyone. My two girlfriends kept looking at me as if to say “I can’t believe we’re doing this!”
Sure enough, everyone found teeth and had a blast! What is it about kids, mud, a stream, and treasures? The simples things for sure. The best kind of entertainment! A sense of accomplishment!
As we left the stream late this afternoon, all the kids had looks of joy on their faces as they held their dirty bags with their trophies! Some would bring them in to school for show in tell, and others would make a necklace out of their teeth. Zachary had many other things in his bag to include a golf ball, glass, and what he thinks is a fossil (the jury is out on that).
The best part of the day for us moms?? Watching each and every child work together, helping each other, laughing, experiencing the thrill of digging, shifting, and discovering Sharks Teeth!
Blessings,
Debbie
Today the kids were off school and we had to choose what we should do with our afternoon. Our friends asked us to go apple picking which sounded like fun but we decided to venture out for one last summer fling and go hunting for Sharks Teeth!
We started the afternoon off with having all hunters and moms over for lunch. Trying to feed six energetic children was utterly chaotic but we managed to get a little food in them, and away we went.
When we arrived at the stream where the hunt would begin, we piled out of the car with screens, buckets, shovels and personalized baggies for each hunter. My three kids had done this before, but the other three were novices. I was anxious to see how this would all play out. “Would my kids help the others?” “Would the others even find any teeth?” I was praying the day would be fun for everyone. My two girlfriends kept looking at me as if to say “I can’t believe we’re doing this!”
Sure enough, everyone found teeth and had a blast! What is it about kids, mud, a stream, and treasures? The simples things for sure. The best kind of entertainment! A sense of accomplishment!
As we left the stream late this afternoon, all the kids had looks of joy on their faces as they held their dirty bags with their trophies! Some would bring them in to school for show in tell, and others would make a necklace out of their teeth. Zachary had many other things in his bag to include a golf ball, glass, and what he thinks is a fossil (the jury is out on that).
The best part of the day for us moms?? Watching each and every child work together, helping each other, laughing, experiencing the thrill of digging, shifting, and discovering Sharks Teeth!
Blessings,
Debbie
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Far From Perfect
It’s been a few years since I have hosted our community Bible study. As a co-facilitator I couldn’t come up with a good reason why I should not have it at my house once again. For six years I traveled twenty miles to school in the morning dropping kids off, but now they are all old enough to ride the bus.
The last time the study was at my house I had a student living with me who helped a great deal with the kids. I also had a cleaning person, and a husband who was home every night. Although we loved the phase of our life when students lived with us, it’s just us five now creating our own energy! I now clean my own house which has to be split up in two day increments for a total cleaning time of ten hours (ugh!). Due to a financial crisis, we only see my husband on the weekends.
Volunteering to have the study sparked some soul searching. I started to focus on all the negative things such as:
- We haven’t kept up with the landscaping and it looks awful!
- The dog ate my beautiful pillows outside on the bench, now they have holes in them.
- The dog also chewed the beautiful wood benches on the front porch.
- The inside of the house is half done from a renovation put on hold two years ago
I could go on and on but I knew this utter fretting was wrong and needed to be worked out in my heart and mind. Oh, and by the way, I think my whole house smells like PEE!
Somehow I got away from the whole reason I was having the study….to show the love of Jesus, and encourage others to grow in Him.
Who was I kidding thinking everything should look just perfect? My life is far from perfect, I’m a work in progress and thank God we have a God who does not demand perfection. Actually, He does demand perfection but realized we needed help in that area so He sent His son to die on the cross to save us from our sins. Once we accept that amazing gift we can spend eternity in heaven
“For God so loved the world, that He sent His one and only son. Whoever believes in Him will not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16
The first day came for the study and my house was far from perfect but I was at peace to know I cleaned the toilets, sprayed air freshener, lit a candle, and mopped the floor. For me, that’s about as good as it gets for company.
The best part about the day is once the ladies arrived none of my concerns mattered. We were joined by the Holy Sprit who blessed us all with the love of Jesus, the fellowship was sweet, and our hearts we encouraged to grow in Him!
Sweet blessings to you,
Debbie
The last time the study was at my house I had a student living with me who helped a great deal with the kids. I also had a cleaning person, and a husband who was home every night. Although we loved the phase of our life when students lived with us, it’s just us five now creating our own energy! I now clean my own house which has to be split up in two day increments for a total cleaning time of ten hours (ugh!). Due to a financial crisis, we only see my husband on the weekends.
Volunteering to have the study sparked some soul searching. I started to focus on all the negative things such as:
- We haven’t kept up with the landscaping and it looks awful!
- The dog ate my beautiful pillows outside on the bench, now they have holes in them.
- The dog also chewed the beautiful wood benches on the front porch.
- The inside of the house is half done from a renovation put on hold two years ago
I could go on and on but I knew this utter fretting was wrong and needed to be worked out in my heart and mind. Oh, and by the way, I think my whole house smells like PEE!
Somehow I got away from the whole reason I was having the study….to show the love of Jesus, and encourage others to grow in Him.
Who was I kidding thinking everything should look just perfect? My life is far from perfect, I’m a work in progress and thank God we have a God who does not demand perfection. Actually, He does demand perfection but realized we needed help in that area so He sent His son to die on the cross to save us from our sins. Once we accept that amazing gift we can spend eternity in heaven
“For God so loved the world, that He sent His one and only son. Whoever believes in Him will not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16
The first day came for the study and my house was far from perfect but I was at peace to know I cleaned the toilets, sprayed air freshener, lit a candle, and mopped the floor. For me, that’s about as good as it gets for company.
The best part about the day is once the ladies arrived none of my concerns mattered. We were joined by the Holy Sprit who blessed us all with the love of Jesus, the fellowship was sweet, and our hearts we encouraged to grow in Him!
Sweet blessings to you,
Debbie
Friday, October 3, 2008
"All About Me" Day!
Having a birthday in October puts me right in there with the multitudes. I could rattle off ten names easily of friends and family who share a birthday within days of my own. Today is mine and I enjoyed every minute of it!
A birthday celebration for me is extending it for the entire month of October. Why? Because my favorite thing to do is spend one on one time with friends and family. Having a dear friend take time out of her busy schedule to talk on the phone or meet me for a cup of coffee is what makes me happy. Although I appreciate gifts, I would choose someone spending time with me over a gift. I know how precious time is to all of us.
The festivities started last night when two friends took me out and of course we solved all the worlds’ problems with no barriers. Instead of avoiding politics and religion, they were the main topics covered last night!
Today I got up and got the kids off to school. As I waved good-bye and threw kisses as the bus drove away, I wondered what I would do with my day. For the first time ever I decided (in honor of myself) I was going to go back to bed and enjoy extra sleep, JUST BECAUSE!! As I crawled back into my warm bed trying not to feel too guilty, someone starts knocking on my door and ringing the doorbell, a little frantically I might add! At first I was hoping they would go away, I wasn’t expecting anyone. As the knocking got louder I jumped out of my bed and ran downstairs. It was my friend Laurie!! She had stopped by to wish me a Happy Birthday before work. She’s standing there all dolled up and I look like, well, I just got out of bed! She didn’t care and neither did I! We quickly had a cup of coffee, chatted, I opened her gifts and she went on her way. Then I went back to bed!
Upon my second wake up call of the day I decided I needed to have a plan for my birthday. I wanted to (of course) honor myself, but wanted to honor others, starting with God first. After making myself breakfast (another first for me) I sat and had my devotions in prayer and reading my Bible. My heart was filled with joy and thankfulness for all that I have.
The phone calls and e-mails started to come in from friends and family wishing me a Happy Birthday. Some sang, others just told me how much, well, they liked me! I wanted to reach out to someone on my birthday so I made a contact to help a family in my community whose house just burnt down. Then I went off to play tennis. Somehow, when I arrived at the club many people knew it was my birthday, and that just made me smile! Every hour I was blessed by someone making a contact, and mostly people whom I don’t see or talk to very often.
When the kids came home from school we all went out for a bike ride (except Emeline, she ran), that made me very happy!
Tonight was spent going out for dinner and spending time at my parents eating chocolate mousse cake.
One significant thing I did today was develop a plan on pursuing a dream or maybe calling from God, not sure which yet. I have been encouraged by so many to write a book. Having this blog and attending two writers conferences made me realize I do not have the gift of writing, yet I have had a burning desire to write a book for girls with ADD for many months now. Last night my friend Kelli very boldly said “You must start writing this book! What are you waiting for?” Today I have a plan on taking the next step for the book. So…there Kelli!! Thanks for the nudge; I look forward to the journey and seeing what God does. My mom will co-author the book with me. Just spending the extra time with my mom will be worth whatever happens!!
Sweet Dreams and thanks for making my “All About Me” Day extra special!!
Blessings,
Debbie
A birthday celebration for me is extending it for the entire month of October. Why? Because my favorite thing to do is spend one on one time with friends and family. Having a dear friend take time out of her busy schedule to talk on the phone or meet me for a cup of coffee is what makes me happy. Although I appreciate gifts, I would choose someone spending time with me over a gift. I know how precious time is to all of us.
The festivities started last night when two friends took me out and of course we solved all the worlds’ problems with no barriers. Instead of avoiding politics and religion, they were the main topics covered last night!
Today I got up and got the kids off to school. As I waved good-bye and threw kisses as the bus drove away, I wondered what I would do with my day. For the first time ever I decided (in honor of myself) I was going to go back to bed and enjoy extra sleep, JUST BECAUSE!! As I crawled back into my warm bed trying not to feel too guilty, someone starts knocking on my door and ringing the doorbell, a little frantically I might add! At first I was hoping they would go away, I wasn’t expecting anyone. As the knocking got louder I jumped out of my bed and ran downstairs. It was my friend Laurie!! She had stopped by to wish me a Happy Birthday before work. She’s standing there all dolled up and I look like, well, I just got out of bed! She didn’t care and neither did I! We quickly had a cup of coffee, chatted, I opened her gifts and she went on her way. Then I went back to bed!
Upon my second wake up call of the day I decided I needed to have a plan for my birthday. I wanted to (of course) honor myself, but wanted to honor others, starting with God first. After making myself breakfast (another first for me) I sat and had my devotions in prayer and reading my Bible. My heart was filled with joy and thankfulness for all that I have.
The phone calls and e-mails started to come in from friends and family wishing me a Happy Birthday. Some sang, others just told me how much, well, they liked me! I wanted to reach out to someone on my birthday so I made a contact to help a family in my community whose house just burnt down. Then I went off to play tennis. Somehow, when I arrived at the club many people knew it was my birthday, and that just made me smile! Every hour I was blessed by someone making a contact, and mostly people whom I don’t see or talk to very often.
When the kids came home from school we all went out for a bike ride (except Emeline, she ran), that made me very happy!
Tonight was spent going out for dinner and spending time at my parents eating chocolate mousse cake.
One significant thing I did today was develop a plan on pursuing a dream or maybe calling from God, not sure which yet. I have been encouraged by so many to write a book. Having this blog and attending two writers conferences made me realize I do not have the gift of writing, yet I have had a burning desire to write a book for girls with ADD for many months now. Last night my friend Kelli very boldly said “You must start writing this book! What are you waiting for?” Today I have a plan on taking the next step for the book. So…there Kelli!! Thanks for the nudge; I look forward to the journey and seeing what God does. My mom will co-author the book with me. Just spending the extra time with my mom will be worth whatever happens!!
Sweet Dreams and thanks for making my “All About Me” Day extra special!!
Blessings,
Debbie
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Do They Have a Vaccine For That?
Just yesterday morning I had breakfast with a friend and my mother, and the subject of “Telling your kids about SEX” came up! Having a nine year old daughter, many of us parents are buzzing about the subject, wondering when is a good time and what on earth do we say? I’ve personally listened to tapes, called and spoken to counselors at Focus on the Family http://www.focusonthefamily.com/, read books on the subject, and talked to my “wise” girlfriends! The experts advise to start talking to your child when the “window of opportunity” opens. “Wade into the waters and see what the response is”. How are we supposed to know what that all looks like?
We have friends that have already had “The talk”. Some of the stories could keep me laughing for weeks!! I’m so glad God has a sense of humor and we can too when it comes to all this!!
There have been a few small opportunities that I have tried to “Wade into the water” with Emeline. I bought a recommended American Girl Doll book about her body. Absolutely no interest! I was shocked! Doesn’t she want to know how her body is going to start to change? Nope!
Emeline has always been a very alert, “street wise” kind of girl for her age with good social skills. Surely she must have more knowledge then she is letting on to, and when she is ready she will open up about it.
Last night I had all three kids in the car. Emeline 9, Sam 7, and Zachary 6. The subject of Chicken Pox came up which lead to vaccines, and somehow we moved over to talking about babies. “How do babies come out of your belly?” asked Zachary. “Through your privates”, was my reply. Emeline assured us all she was not going to have any children. “Of course you will. Some day you’ll get married and want to have a family” I encouraged her. “No mommy, I don’t want to have any kids. By the way, do they give you a shot for that?” “A shot for what?” “A shot so you don’t have any babies, like a vaccine!”
It was clear to me last night Emeline still thinks as she always has….that you get married, and the babies just come out of you!!
We will know when the timing is right. One day Emeline will be ready to know and it will make sense to her. In the mean time, Steve and I will keep “Wading in”, “Wading out”, enjoying our daughter and the beautiful mind God has given her, asking Him to protect her and keep her under His mighty wings.
My Advice? DON'T PANIC!!
“The preparations of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord. Commit your works to the Lord, and your thoughts will be established”. Proverbs 16: 1,3
Blessings,
Debbie
We have friends that have already had “The talk”. Some of the stories could keep me laughing for weeks!! I’m so glad God has a sense of humor and we can too when it comes to all this!!
There have been a few small opportunities that I have tried to “Wade into the water” with Emeline. I bought a recommended American Girl Doll book about her body. Absolutely no interest! I was shocked! Doesn’t she want to know how her body is going to start to change? Nope!
Emeline has always been a very alert, “street wise” kind of girl for her age with good social skills. Surely she must have more knowledge then she is letting on to, and when she is ready she will open up about it.
Last night I had all three kids in the car. Emeline 9, Sam 7, and Zachary 6. The subject of Chicken Pox came up which lead to vaccines, and somehow we moved over to talking about babies. “How do babies come out of your belly?” asked Zachary. “Through your privates”, was my reply. Emeline assured us all she was not going to have any children. “Of course you will. Some day you’ll get married and want to have a family” I encouraged her. “No mommy, I don’t want to have any kids. By the way, do they give you a shot for that?” “A shot for what?” “A shot so you don’t have any babies, like a vaccine!”
It was clear to me last night Emeline still thinks as she always has….that you get married, and the babies just come out of you!!
We will know when the timing is right. One day Emeline will be ready to know and it will make sense to her. In the mean time, Steve and I will keep “Wading in”, “Wading out”, enjoying our daughter and the beautiful mind God has given her, asking Him to protect her and keep her under His mighty wings.
My Advice? DON'T PANIC!!
“The preparations of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord. Commit your works to the Lord, and your thoughts will be established”. Proverbs 16: 1,3
Blessings,
Debbie
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)