The young proud father held his baby girl in his arms, “This is her first Christmas and I want everything to be perfect!” The elf checking in customers for their visit and picture with Santa just shrugged his shoulders, after all it wasn’t his problem the Santa the mall hired this year wasn’t fat! “We’ll wait for the fat Santa”, the young man said in a huff as he stepped out of line.
This was a clip from a television show last week and although I laughed hysterically, what a reality check it was. Although I’ve never been concerned about Santa’s weight I can certainly think of many incidents that pull at that desire to have “Everything perfect”
It started with the tree. First we named him “ Sheldon” which was a mistake because there’s an instant attachment when you name anything! For the first time ever I thought we needed to return our tree. Upon its arrival into the living room, he started raining needles, you could hear them pouring onto the rug. Since we have our tree up for a month, if Sheldon kept raining needles it would look like the Charlie Brown tree in a week! Steve convinced me Sheldon was in shock and would be o.k. The next crisis was as I stood there with the last ornament to place on the tree all the lights went out. A friend sitting on my sofa watching told us we shouldn’t hook up any more then three strands of lights together. Well, we had at least ten strands! My electrician Steve fixed it all so that Sheldon is plugged into a few different outlets, whew….after all that, Sheldon is a beauty!!
We all have our expectations of what Christmas should look like. For some it is the way the house is decorated, for others it is the gifts they buy (and receive!). The older I get (and I am getting old!) I realize and am content with the “imperfectness” of my life. Christmas cookies have been burnt, lights continue to short circuit, but it represents what “the norm” is. Yesterday Emeline had her sweet friend Nell over. I enjoy watching these two girls, they jump from one activity to another. Yesterday they created a gingerbread house together. It turned out nice and beautiful but they replaced one of my favorite Christmas decorations with their house! Of course I couldn’t say anything but I was disappointed to see MY favorite piece tossed aside…
As I look around I chuckle. Lights are out that should be on, fragile item have been broken, candy has been eaten off the calendar on dates that aren’t here yet, and my favorite Christmas centerpiece has been rejected.
Yet..My heart is content…without the people I love around me life would be different. My house without them would look perfect…someday they’ll be gone and I’ll miss it all!
Enjoy the “imperfectness” of the holiday, laugh with the people you love, and remember Christmas is about how God came down and gave us Himself……EMBRACE THE PERFECT GIFT!
Blessings, Debbie
Monday, December 14, 2009
Monday, October 12, 2009
A Committed Fullback
After a busy summer of fun we are full swing into fall with school and sports. Our kids have played soccer for many years on our church league. This year we ventured out into our community which we love. Samuel was ready for tackle football and Emeline wanted to “have at it” on the travel soccer team. Since Zachary is the third child he must be flexible until any talent arises (which it has). He plays soccer as well.
Emeline started playing soccer when she was little like most kids. She and her friends would pick flowers while the coach was screaming for them to be out on the field. At the time she was also dancing and doing more “girly” type things like wear dresses and have her mother paint her nails. When Emeline turned seven she started breaking bones, her “klutzy” stage lasted for two years. After many casts and no sports she tried soccer again last year on our church league. People (including her mother) could hardly believe this was the same girl we once knew. Sweet Emeline was aggressive and ready to rumble out on the field. Her focus and desire was clear….she wanted the ball and a goal.
Emeline is enjoying her time playing for the “Torches”. She is a light to those who know her and meet her, encouraging her other teammates. As for her defensive skills? She’s a fighter who commits and won’t stop until the ball is headed up field again for the offensive players to do their job.
I cannot help but scream my head off. Now I’m not the quietest person in the world but I’m also not known for my screaming, in fact some would say I’m rather soft spoken. Well, not on the soccer field anyway. I either need to stop going to the games or tape my mouth shut, otherwise I can’t seem to help myself…the competitor in me surfaces every time!
I am proud of Emeline, sometimes it makes me cry to think that God would bless me with such a delightful person who happens to be my daughter. Although I’m supposed to be leading her and guiding her, she often teaches me so much about kindness and compassion..mercy and grace.
Blessings,
Debbie
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Where's The Bus?
Today was the first day of school for the kids. There’s nothing that will bring the summer season to a screeching halt like the alarm going off at 6:30 to RISE and SHINE! We knew the day was coming, it was no surprise, yet for some reason at least in our family things never go quite as smooth as a mom would like.
Over the summer I bought the boys new sneakers for the first day of school. My boys are specific about their shoes (like their mom). The colors, shoe laces, and style all have to work. Today as Sam and Zachary put their shoes on they both complained the shoes didn’t fit. Zachary had a half way decent pair of shoes to wear, Sam had nothing but a beat up old pair of smelly shoes to wear on his first day of third grade.
I have a tradition on the first day of school to follow the bus. Many years ago before I had kids someone I knew followed the bus for her children on the first day of school and I thought it was one of the funniest things I had ever heard of. Now I follow the bus, it makes perfect sense to me!
This morning became utterly chaotic as two out of three kids did not want to get out of bed, alarms were ringing all over the house (no one responding). Meanwhile I’m trying to get myself ready to follow the bus yet trying to get a good breakfast in three bellies. Thank goodness the bus was late. After the kids boarded the bus I climbed into my car and headed for school trying to stay behind the bus. Of course the bus got ahead of me at a traffic light close to home and I never saw him again.
By the time I arrived at school bus #62 had arrived as well and my children all made it safely to their classrooms.
It’s a big adjustment going from constant interaction with kids all day to not having them home for eight hours. Part of me wanted to do the happy dance and part of me wanted to be sad and cry. I opted for the happy dance.
The summer was a whirlwind..so much fun..swim team, camps, traveling, and just enjoying having them around. No time for me to write, talk on the phone, or keep up any social schedule. Honestly I wouldn’t have it any other way. My life was consumed by them and for the most part I loved every minute of it.
So now it’s time for change..I’m ready and they’re ready. Back to schedule, chores, homework, and learning what it looks like to be a first, third and fifth grader.
Here’s to another school year!
Blessings,
Debbie
Over the summer I bought the boys new sneakers for the first day of school. My boys are specific about their shoes (like their mom). The colors, shoe laces, and style all have to work. Today as Sam and Zachary put their shoes on they both complained the shoes didn’t fit. Zachary had a half way decent pair of shoes to wear, Sam had nothing but a beat up old pair of smelly shoes to wear on his first day of third grade.
I have a tradition on the first day of school to follow the bus. Many years ago before I had kids someone I knew followed the bus for her children on the first day of school and I thought it was one of the funniest things I had ever heard of. Now I follow the bus, it makes perfect sense to me!
This morning became utterly chaotic as two out of three kids did not want to get out of bed, alarms were ringing all over the house (no one responding). Meanwhile I’m trying to get myself ready to follow the bus yet trying to get a good breakfast in three bellies. Thank goodness the bus was late. After the kids boarded the bus I climbed into my car and headed for school trying to stay behind the bus. Of course the bus got ahead of me at a traffic light close to home and I never saw him again.
By the time I arrived at school bus #62 had arrived as well and my children all made it safely to their classrooms.
It’s a big adjustment going from constant interaction with kids all day to not having them home for eight hours. Part of me wanted to do the happy dance and part of me wanted to be sad and cry. I opted for the happy dance.
The summer was a whirlwind..so much fun..swim team, camps, traveling, and just enjoying having them around. No time for me to write, talk on the phone, or keep up any social schedule. Honestly I wouldn’t have it any other way. My life was consumed by them and for the most part I loved every minute of it.
So now it’s time for change..I’m ready and they’re ready. Back to schedule, chores, homework, and learning what it looks like to be a first, third and fifth grader.
Here’s to another school year!
Blessings,
Debbie
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
NOT GUILTY!
It’s been four months since I was stopped by a police officer and received a moving violation. $109.00 in fees and three points against my record. “Failure to come to a complete stop at a stop sign.” I remember the night well. The kids and I were taking Emeline to soccer practice. I was on the phone with my mom discussing an important issue, the boys were fighting in the back seat, and I was yelling at them while trying to talk to my mom. Before I knew it I saw the red flashing lights behind me.
Being married to a man who frequents court for one reason or another insisted I request a trial to ask the judge to remove the points, so that is what I did. Today was the court date to appear. The kids thought I was going to play tennis when they heard the word "court"..nope not today. This was my first time in court and I expected to be the only one for my 9:00 appointment. I was stunned to realize many people just like me had a court date at the same time!!
I must admit I secretly prayed and asked the Lord to have my police offier on vacation. I heard that if that is the case they throw the case out. Then I wouldn’t have to face the guy again and feel like an idiot telling him and the judge why they should let me off the hook. After all the law is the law and apparently I disobeyed. I honestly don’t remember the stop sign that night. I’m sure I must have slowed down but no surprise that I basically blew through it!
The court room was fascinating, yet I was nervous, more then I’ve felt in a long time. I realized I had no iedea what to say when I approached the judge. I honestly didn’t remember what I did at the stop sign so the officer must be right yet I didn’t want to keep the points on my record. I started praying and asking God to help me know what to say.
Sure enough after several police officers came and went my officer was called by the judge but was not present. The judge called me up. I didn’t know what to say so I didn’t say anything, not even good morning! I waited for him to speak. The first words out of his mouth, “Let me guess, you were going to Mackelsfield Park”. Yep, smart guy he was, I guess I look like a soccer mom. He then told me that since the officer wasn’t there I am “Not Guilty” and my money for the ticket and court fees will be refunded. Still so nervous I quickly verified that the points would be removed as well. His response, “If you’re not guilty then you can’t have any points marked against your record.” OF COURSE NOT! Silly me, lucky me, blessed me!!
I serve a God of grace and mercy. The grace part is when we get something that we don’t deserve. The mercy part is when we don’t get something that we do deserve. According to the law I deserved to at least pay a fine. I was just pleased to have the points removed. To have both the points removed AND have my money refunded made my day. It was also a reminder to me of what Chrsit did for us. He came and died on the cross to save us from our sins. It is a gift, we don’t deserve it, we just have to accept it. Once we do, we’re deemed “NOT GUILTY”.
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus.” Romans 6:23.
Blessings,
Debbie
Being married to a man who frequents court for one reason or another insisted I request a trial to ask the judge to remove the points, so that is what I did. Today was the court date to appear. The kids thought I was going to play tennis when they heard the word "court"..nope not today. This was my first time in court and I expected to be the only one for my 9:00 appointment. I was stunned to realize many people just like me had a court date at the same time!!
I must admit I secretly prayed and asked the Lord to have my police offier on vacation. I heard that if that is the case they throw the case out. Then I wouldn’t have to face the guy again and feel like an idiot telling him and the judge why they should let me off the hook. After all the law is the law and apparently I disobeyed. I honestly don’t remember the stop sign that night. I’m sure I must have slowed down but no surprise that I basically blew through it!
The court room was fascinating, yet I was nervous, more then I’ve felt in a long time. I realized I had no iedea what to say when I approached the judge. I honestly didn’t remember what I did at the stop sign so the officer must be right yet I didn’t want to keep the points on my record. I started praying and asking God to help me know what to say.
Sure enough after several police officers came and went my officer was called by the judge but was not present. The judge called me up. I didn’t know what to say so I didn’t say anything, not even good morning! I waited for him to speak. The first words out of his mouth, “Let me guess, you were going to Mackelsfield Park”. Yep, smart guy he was, I guess I look like a soccer mom. He then told me that since the officer wasn’t there I am “Not Guilty” and my money for the ticket and court fees will be refunded. Still so nervous I quickly verified that the points would be removed as well. His response, “If you’re not guilty then you can’t have any points marked against your record.” OF COURSE NOT! Silly me, lucky me, blessed me!!
I serve a God of grace and mercy. The grace part is when we get something that we don’t deserve. The mercy part is when we don’t get something that we do deserve. According to the law I deserved to at least pay a fine. I was just pleased to have the points removed. To have both the points removed AND have my money refunded made my day. It was also a reminder to me of what Chrsit did for us. He came and died on the cross to save us from our sins. It is a gift, we don’t deserve it, we just have to accept it. Once we do, we’re deemed “NOT GUILTY”.
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus.” Romans 6:23.
Blessings,
Debbie
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
You Can Watch Your Bladder!
It’s been over a month of running to the doctor’s, having tests and procedures to determine just what is causing some health problems. As it turns out there are several areas of concern requiring an immediate diagnosis. Today was a surgical procedure to have a good look at my bladder. Having been in the operating room before I assumed I would be sedated and wake up when it was all over. I was concerned when the hospital called yesterday to inform me of the arrival time and did not give me instructions for fasting. Everyone knows you need to fast before anesthesia! What were they thinking, was I going to be awake for all this?
Sure enough I was scheduled for a local anesthesia. After all the prep and signing my life away I was ushered back to the OR. Although all the equipment was impressive I was not looking forward to what was about to happen, there were TVs everywhere and I was informed I could watch the doctor do the procedure and see my bladder. “See my bladder? Can’t I just watch Good Morning America?” I couldn’t imagine who on earth would want to see their bladder! My personal nurse Greg, the person who would coach me through this procedure looked like he just came from the beach on his motorcycle.
One of the very best doctor’s in the country happened to be doing my surgery (thank you Lord). I knew I was in good hands.
Once the procedure started as expected I did not do well. I’m not sure what they gave me but it didn’t feel like anything was numb enough for anyone to be poking around! Trying to distract me Greg was helping me breath like I did during three natural childbirths. Fortunately Greg was big and strong because he had to physically hold me down or I would have jumped off the table. Thankfully, with the help of Greg and prayer, I/we made it through.
Although I’m not completely out of the woods today was a very good day, the doctor saw no cancer and no need to biopsy the area (that’s a good thing). Tomorrow is another procedure. Prayers are appreciated and welcomed.
Having to go through a time of such uncertainty really changes your/my perspective on things. It’s tough to think of what could be down the road but it forces you to come to terms with the sovereignty of God. Not easy, but necessary. I must daily make a choice whether I will worry and fret or whether I will commit my day to God and enjoy the day He has given me, just one day at a time. Our days are numbered, none of us know how long we will be here. I did not want to waste the month of August fretting about something that may or may not happen and miss the time with my kids and husband.
It is in the hard times that special friends step up to pray, and encourage. I thank God for all those people in my life, they know who they are.
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God: and the peace of God which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
Sweet dreams and blessings,
Debbie
Sure enough I was scheduled for a local anesthesia. After all the prep and signing my life away I was ushered back to the OR. Although all the equipment was impressive I was not looking forward to what was about to happen, there were TVs everywhere and I was informed I could watch the doctor do the procedure and see my bladder. “See my bladder? Can’t I just watch Good Morning America?” I couldn’t imagine who on earth would want to see their bladder! My personal nurse Greg, the person who would coach me through this procedure looked like he just came from the beach on his motorcycle.
One of the very best doctor’s in the country happened to be doing my surgery (thank you Lord). I knew I was in good hands.
Once the procedure started as expected I did not do well. I’m not sure what they gave me but it didn’t feel like anything was numb enough for anyone to be poking around! Trying to distract me Greg was helping me breath like I did during three natural childbirths. Fortunately Greg was big and strong because he had to physically hold me down or I would have jumped off the table. Thankfully, with the help of Greg and prayer, I/we made it through.
Although I’m not completely out of the woods today was a very good day, the doctor saw no cancer and no need to biopsy the area (that’s a good thing). Tomorrow is another procedure. Prayers are appreciated and welcomed.
Having to go through a time of such uncertainty really changes your/my perspective on things. It’s tough to think of what could be down the road but it forces you to come to terms with the sovereignty of God. Not easy, but necessary. I must daily make a choice whether I will worry and fret or whether I will commit my day to God and enjoy the day He has given me, just one day at a time. Our days are numbered, none of us know how long we will be here. I did not want to waste the month of August fretting about something that may or may not happen and miss the time with my kids and husband.
It is in the hard times that special friends step up to pray, and encourage. I thank God for all those people in my life, they know who they are.
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God: and the peace of God which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
Sweet dreams and blessings,
Debbie
It’s been over a month of running to the doctor’s, having tests and procedures to determine just what is causing some health problems. As it turns out there are several areas of concern requiring an immediate diagnosis. Today was a surgical procedure to have a good look at my bladder. Having been in the operating room before I assumed I would be sedated and wake up when it was all over. I was concerned when the hospital called yesterday to inform me of the arrival time and did not give me instructions for fasting. Everyone knows you need to fast before anesthesia! What were they thinking, was I going to be awake for all this?
Sure enough I was scheduled for a local anesthesia. After all the prep and signing my life away I was ushered back to the OR. Although all the equipment was impressive I was not looking forward to what was about to happen, there were TVs everywhere and I was informed I could watch the doctor do the procedure and see my bladder. “See my bladder? Can’t I just watch Good Morning America?” I couldn’t imagine who on earth would want to see their bladder! My personal nurse Greg, the person who would coach me through this procedure looked like he just came from the beach on his motorcycle.
One of the very best doctor’s in the country happened to be doing my surgery (thank you Lord). I knew I was in good hands.
Once the procedure started as expected I did not do well. I’m not sure what they gave me but it didn’t feel like anything was numb enough for anyone to be poking around! Trying to distract me Greg was helping me breath like I did during three natural childbirths. Fortunately Greg was big and strong because he had to physically hold me down or I would have jumped off the table. Thankfully, with the help of Greg and prayer, I/we made it through.
Although I’m not completely out of the woods today was a very good day, the doctor saw no cancer and no need to biopsy the area (that’s a good thing). Tomorrow is another procedure. Prayers are appreciated and welcomed.
Having to go through a time of such uncertainty really changes your/my perspective on things. It’s tough to think of what could be down the road but it forces you to come to terms with the sovereignty of God. Not easy, but necessary. I must daily make a choice whether I will worry and fret or whether I will commit my day to God and enjoy the day He has given me, just one day at a time. Our days are numbered, none of us know how long we will be here. I did not want to waste the month of August fretting about something that may or may not happen and miss the time with my kids and husband.
It is in the hard times that special friends step up to pray, and encourage. I thank God for all those people in my life, they know who they are.
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God: and the peace of God which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
Sweet dreams and blessings,
Debbie
Sure enough I was scheduled for a local anesthesia. After all the prep and signing my life away I was ushered back to the OR. Although all the equipment was impressive I was not looking forward to what was about to happen, there were TVs everywhere and I was informed I could watch the doctor do the procedure and see my bladder. “See my bladder? Can’t I just watch Good Morning America?” I couldn’t imagine who on earth would want to see their bladder! My personal nurse Greg, the person who would coach me through this procedure looked like he just came from the beach on his motorcycle.
One of the very best doctor’s in the country happened to be doing my surgery (thank you Lord). I knew I was in good hands.
Once the procedure started as expected I did not do well. I’m not sure what they gave me but it didn’t feel like anything was numb enough for anyone to be poking around! Trying to distract me Greg was helping me breath like I did during three natural childbirths. Fortunately Greg was big and strong because he had to physically hold me down or I would have jumped off the table. Thankfully, with the help of Greg and prayer, I/we made it through.
Although I’m not completely out of the woods today was a very good day, the doctor saw no cancer and no need to biopsy the area (that’s a good thing). Tomorrow is another procedure. Prayers are appreciated and welcomed.
Having to go through a time of such uncertainty really changes your/my perspective on things. It’s tough to think of what could be down the road but it forces you to come to terms with the sovereignty of God. Not easy, but necessary. I must daily make a choice whether I will worry and fret or whether I will commit my day to God and enjoy the day He has given me, just one day at a time. Our days are numbered, none of us know how long we will be here. I did not want to waste the month of August fretting about something that may or may not happen and miss the time with my kids and husband.
It is in the hard times that special friends step up to pray, and encourage. I thank God for all those people in my life, they know who they are.
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God: and the peace of God which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
Sweet dreams and blessings,
Debbie
Sunday, August 9, 2009
An Unexpected Birthday Surprise
“Daddy Help!” “Hold onto the pole!” “Ouch, Daddy Help!” “Grab the pole!” “Run Emeline, RUN!”
For Emeline’s tenth birthday she chose to spend the afternoon turtle hunting. This is Emeline’s favorite form of entertainment and passion as she enters the “tween” years. This sport is not for the thrill seekers or those demanding instant gratification. Turtle hunting can rank right up there with watching paint dry!
Knowing how much Emeline loves to find and catch turtles we all set out to support our favorite ten year old. We live close to a canal where creatures such as snakes, frogs, minnows, crayfish and others live. The rangers know us as well as frequent canal goers!
Walking on the canal is quite peaceful and tranquil I must admit. Once I start walking I get lost in God’s creation and am keenly aware of all the little creative ways God shows us just how wonderful and majestic He is. Today was no different. I was several steps ahead of Steve and the kids with my eyes fixed on the canal determined to find a small turtle to help Emeline. That is when I heard all the commotion behind me. Emeline was screaming, Steve was trying to get her out of the canal. They were obviously in some sort of trouble but I couldn’t tell what.
Emleine had stepped on a bee’s nest and they came at her and Steve with a vengeance. Emeline looked like she was doing the 50 yard dash and screaming her head off when I realized what was happening. They bit her twice on the face, on the back, and on her finger. OUCH!!!!
Would she continue or want to go home and have a good cry? We kept going, a lesson was learned…always check the brush near the water for bee’s nests before plunging into the canal. It’s actually a good life lesson. There are often times in my own life when I’ve got my eyes set on a goal I want to accomplish and I don’t see the “CAUTION” sign in front of me.UGH!
The beauty of our day was when Emeline caught her little turtle she set out for. It was God’s birthday gift to her, and we thank HIM for it!
“A wise man will hear and increase learning, and a man of understanding will attain wise counsel.” Proverbs 1:5
HAPPY BIRTHDAY EMELINE, WE LOVE YOU!!!
Debbie
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