You know you're raising your kids in the South, when...

I apologize if you are tiring of my kid stories. This is my little place where it's easy to catalogue and record the incidental happenings in our lives. Keeps it all packaged up for me to print and save. So, here's one more for the record:

You may recall a story about a delightful band called "The Worship Leaders"; well, I haven't heard anything new from them in a while so I thought perhaps there was dissension in the ranks again. However, Cameron told me today that he wanted to sing something for me. So, I stopped and listened while he sang a little two-line ditty for me. It went something like this, "Who in tarnation can rule the Nations? His name is God." I had to hide my surprise and amusement while I asked 'where did you hear that?'

"Oh, me and Sissy wrote it." (excuse grammar, please)

I didn't even know my kids knew the word tarnation. It may be time to "get out of Dodge".

Homonym Hilarity

So Cameron has been going through this phase of spelling out everything he wants to say. And he's even rubbing off on his sisters. It can make for some interesting communication around here. He doesn't only spell words, but sometimes whole sentences. For example, "Mommy, may I go outside?" has turned into "M-o-m-m-y m-a-y I g-o o-u-t-s-i-d-e?"

Now Cameron is only seven, so his spelling skills are still being honed, to say the least. Lauren's are a little better, except for words that don't play by the rules, which we refer to as "heart" words, meaning words you have to know by heart.

Sophie is really on her toes trying to keep up with all the spelling going on around here!

The point of all this reporting is to share a funny dinnertime incident from last week. We were sitting around the table eating spaghetti. Sophie really wasn't much into her meal anyway. She was picking at it a lot rather than eating it. Finally, she pipes up with "M-o-m-m-y?" Yes, Sophie? "I'm F-O-O-L!"

Derek and I DIED laughing. Poor girl couldn't figure out what was so funny!

Never A Dull Moment

So.....Derek and I are sitting downstairs minding our own business. The children are upstairs puttin' their jammies on. Suddenly, we hear heartbreaking sobs heading our direction. We look over at the stairs to see Sophie descending, face in her hands, and she is obviously in great distress. Not far behind, are her big Sis and Bro. They are reaching out comforting arms to her.



Lauren: "Oh, you poor poor DEAR~! It will be okay."



Cameron: "Yeah, don't worry. We'll help you."



Derek and I are a bit bewildered as to what's going on. Then we hear, directed at us....



Lauren: "Sir, Ma'am...can you help this poor girl? Her name is Little Bo Peep, and she's lost her sheep!!!!"



At this point, they all three die laughing. Are we the weirdest household in America?! I don't know, but I quickly recovered from my own laughter and surprise in time to grab the camera for a shot at the scene. Welcome to our home......





(To complete the "mood", Sophie had pulled out a little hat that went with a coat she had when she was 2 or 3 yrs old.)

Chastened and Loved

There has been much happening in my heart and life as this new year keeps barrelling along. As last year drew to a close and this one began, I had a sense of anticipation that I don't usually feel on Dec. 31st. This new year was going to be "THE YEAR." Oh, as I type it out and put it out there it seems so dramatic....but that's not really how I feel it or mean it. Words are failing me right now....I just sensed keenly that God was going to do a "new thing."

Sometimes God's doing a "new thing" begins with working on us, refining us, training us. While these times aren't usually what one would consider grand times of fun and excitement, there really is joy in the process. For me, that joy comes from knowing that when I truly sense GOD HIMSELF is the one chastening and correcting....I know that I am really His child! To me, it means He is real. To me, it means He has shown up in my life. No, it's not fun....but it's makes me feel legitimate! Does that make any sense?! LOL!

Let me put it another way. And this is rather difficult territory for me wander into. I spent most of my life in circles where people readily testify and share what's going on in their personal lives, spiritual and otherwise. I have done it many times myself! And I in no way mean to reflect negatively on that. I cherish many of those times of sharing in Chapel, etc. But one of the downsides to it, is that sometimes you hear people testify to things, mighty works and deeds done on their behalf, deliverance's from various trials, direct Divine guidance, etcetera....and without knowing or even realizing it, seeds of doubt can be planted as to "what's wrong with me?"
I've never doubted God's existence. I've never doubted God's omnipotence. I've never doubted God's love. But believe me, as I moved out from the sacred halls of learning and spiritual protection and 24 hour a day 'covering'....I had to know that God was real to ME. And I had to figure out what that meant in my expectations of myself and of God. I'm still coming to terms with having "proper" expectations about God. I think I've spent a good many years keeping them low, so as not to be disappointed. Isn't that a sad confession? God is working in me to change that.

There have been very specific and limited times in my life where I have faced a crisis of Faith, both of the very negative nature and of the very positive nature. One kind that left me floundering, and one kind that left me filled with Hope and confidence. Admittedly, as I look back, I took way too long to learn some of the lessons God was trying to teach me.

Becoming a parent has also put on a new twist on how I see nearly every issue....especially those pertaining to "God and Spiritual things." (as the old tract would put it!) Just one of the ways that this happens, is that I see so clearly the relationship of God/Us in the light of Parent/Child.
Example: a couple of weeks ago, I noticed that Reagan was clenching something in his little hand. I walked over to him and pried his hand open. In it was a little piece of Sophie's hair barrette...broken. Worthless. Useless. BROKEN! But when I took it from him (mostly because in my motherly "omniscience" I knew he could/would choke on it), he began to cry and howl as though the world had come to an end. He ran after me, hand outstretched...pleading for that little broken piece of nothing, when I had a whole corner full of wonderful toys for him to play with!!!! Something about the scene stopped me dead in my tracks. I knew I was smack in the middle of a teachable moment: for myself and for my children. So I called all 3 of the older kids over...showed them the broken barrette....showed them the screaming toddler at my feet. My voice was actually breaking a bit as I asked them, " I wonder if God ever feels this way?" When He KNOWS that something is not good for us, and we demand it anyway, and look at Him as though He is cruel and with-holding good things from us. I wonder if His Father-heart breaks the way mine was in that moment as my little boy felt betrayed by me. Something makes me suspect strongly that that is exactly how God feels when He looks down at me...at us....struggling so ridiculously to hold on to that which is broken and useless.

I'm not sure why I felt compelled to share these thoughts this morning. It is a very personal look at where I am in my own walk right now. But I am filled with peace and joy at the knowledge that God is indeed "showing up" in my life and He's leading me through steps that are increasing my faith. Granted, sometimes I am so puzzled by the means and methods He chooses to accomplish this purpose, but "God is God. And I am NOT. I can only see a part of the picture He's painting. God is God, and I am man. So I'll never understand it all. For only God is God." words by Stephen Curtis Chapman.

Cameron is SEVEN!

So many things to post about...so little time. But before I move on to anything else, honor must be duly given to the celebration of Cameron's 7th birthday, which was this past Monday, April 21st. Our little family party was on Sunday....and as usual the boy made out like a bandit. (don't you just love that expression?!)

Cameron is one energetic bundle of boyness. Many times I shake my head, at a complete loss to understand him. His daddy says, "he's a boy, Mama." As if that explains everything. :) Cameron is a very loving and affectionate little guy, so gentle with his little brother. Such an enigma to me in his "smartness" and learning style. He blows me away sometimes with his quick grasping of concepts, especially in Math. As of late, though, he almost always has one word on his lips: "WHY?" And I don't mean, "why" as in questioning why he has to do something. I mean he wants to know WHY about everything. Why was this named that? Why did that person do that? Why is the sky blue? Why is the grass green? Why is there a word called "why"?!!!!!! WHY can't I know everything???!!!!! AAAGHH!

Cameron takes the reading of the birthday cards, very seriously! I love that!

Overheard in Family Prayer...

Sophie: "Dear Lord, thank you for the sunshiny summery day. Don't you know, it's been cold and wintery for soooooo long and finally it's about time for some summer warm weather."

Out of the mouths of babes, is all I gotta say. :)

One of Them Weeks

You know...the kind that make you deliberately abandon proper grammar for your blog post titles!

Sometimes little fingers can do big damage. Such was the case here early in the week. On Monday, Cameron reached down to pick up his little brother. Reagan raised his arms, and stuck a finger directly in Cameron's right eye. Even though his nails had just been clipped the day before, they are still razor-sharp little boogers. Cameron ended up with a very serious eye injury requiring nearly daily visits to doctors for evaluation and treatment. Initially on Tuesday, they were very concerned because 3 layers of membrane had been ripped in the cornea, and they thought it would take a special procedure to remove a "flap" of it. There was also a concern of infection due to the location of the scrape, since he could have ended up losing sight in that eye. We were sort of stunned all day Tuesday as we drove from the dr to the Specialist. Who would have dreamed such a little incident could be so alarming? As it turns out, we fully believe that the Lord intervened and touched Cameron's eye. It was still a very bad corneal abrasion, but it is healing nicely; so far no infection has set in. We take him back in the morning for a thorough evaluation. We have spent a lot of time thanking God for the gift of sight this week. Cameron was in so much pain the first few days that he could hardly even keep his "good" eye open. His sisters have fixed his breakfast, led him to his room, helped him brush his teeth, etc. It has been pitiful, but sweet.

On another annoying front, I am suffering an injustice at the hand of Homeland Security. There now, did that make ya sit up and take note?!? I'm still trying to sort out the details myself, but it goes something like this. I've been married for nearly 12 years. When I got married I took my birth and marriage certificates to the driver's license bureau in FL, and got a new license w/my married name on it. Moved to AL, and took my FL license to the AL bureau and got a valid license for that state w/my married name on it. Likewise when we moved to our current location. Well, recently my license was set to expire and so I went to the local branch to renew it. For some reason, I popped up in the system w/my maiden name on their computer. So they said something about new laws since 9/11 yada yada yada and that I would have to take my marriage license to the SS office, etc. Apparently I hadn't changed my name w/the SS office. I'm not sure that that's true, but that's what they tell me. So this week I took all my paraphernalia to the office and AGAIN they tell me that due to new laws put in place by Homeland Security that I will have to take my case to COURT, PEOPLE!!!! Actually get put on the docket and have a judge help me legally change my name to THE NAME I'VE BEEN LEGALLY USING FOR 12 YEARS!!!! GRRRRR!!!

I'm looking into all the possible options. I think there's some bureaucratic red tape here that can be avoided with a little intelligence and maybe civil servant bribery. JUST KIDDING. (maybe.)

Now, you see? It's been one of them weeks.

Heart Strangely Warmed...

Sometimes it's a deep theological truth, or an encounter with the Supernatural that does it. Other times, it is simply the words of a child.

Today during our time of doing Phonics together, Sophie quite suddenly looked up at me and said, "Mommy, I really like the way God made you. Because I think you're pretty."

Tears in my eyes.... big hugs....and reassurance that I am indeed happy with the way God made her, too. I'm not sure where that came from today.....held against the standard of this world and it's culture, I'm so far from anything resembling pretty. But my heart was warmed to think that my 5 yr. old sees something pretty in me....and EVEN MORE SO to think that she knows where the value and worth in each one of us comes from. God.

Quitting This Band!

My kids are hilarious. I wish I would do a better job of stopping what I'm doing when I hear hysterical utterances from their little mouths and go write those things down. And, admittedly, there is a "guess you had to be there" factor.

Lately they've taken to forming their own band, the three of them. They use all kinds of interesting items for instruments, and they write their own songs. Perhaps some of you will remember a VERY TALENTED song-writing duo from the early nineties who penned such household favorites as "God Made the Grass" and "God Gave Them Over (to a Reprobate Mind)". (It suddenly strikes me, Julia, we should have copyrighted that material!) Well, those two have nothing over on my kids. Lauren wrote a very lengthy sonnet on how God made all the seasons, and painstakingly described each seasons' characteristics, while her Daddy and I hid our faces behind pillows. Guess you had to be there.

Well, the kiddos named their band "The Worship Leaders." Complete with a theme song entitled "We are the Worship Leaders." Derek and I suggested perhaps a more God-focused title would be appropriate.....but what do we know?

So we're riding along in the van (seems like a lot of our funniest stuff happens there, for some reason.). Derek gets out to run an errand. I'm half-listening to the activity from the backseats. Then I hear an angry, "I'M QUITTING THIS BAND!!!!" Sophie and Cameron were unimpressed with some lyrics referring to something like "you're MY God" as though it were exclusionary towards them. Sophie said, "Sissy, I don't want God to think that I'm not in it too. I don't want God to think that He's not my God. We should say "our" God so He'll know!"
Lauren says, "Oh, God would never think that, Sophie." ( By this time, I'm rolling in the front seat).

Sophie very emphatically replies, "Sissy....how do you know?? You don't know what God thinks. Now that does it....I'm QUITTING THIS BAND!"

As an update: I think the Worship Leaders have made a few attempts at reconciliation, but the future of the band is still uncertain.

Holiday Happenins'

Just thought I'd check in with a little update on the goings on around here. Energy level is still a little low for any grandiose blogging these days. Here are a few of the highlights:

*We were proud of Lauren and Cameron performing in their Christmas Piano Recital a couple of weeks ago. They both did really well. Lauren played two songs, "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" and "Angels We Have Heard on High". Cameron played "We Three Kings". We are blessed to have a wonderful piano teacher for them, and they both enjoy learning to play the piano.

*Our family gave our first "concert" on Sunday night. Of course we sing a song here and there from week to week. But it is quite a different thing to do a non-stop hour of music and sharing. Can't say we were the most polished crew to ever roll down the road, but God definitely helped us. Couldn't have done it without Him, and most of all, I think we were able to be a blessing to a little church that hasn't had anything special in a long time.

*We have had flus of both the respiratory and digestive tract nature. That has been highly unpleasant. And that is all I will say about that. I think we are slowly on the mend.

*If the big winter storm doesn't strike, the kids are prepared for their Christmas play on Sunday night at church. There's rumors of snow and ice, though, so we'll see..............

*I'm rediscovering some of the things that are not my personal faves of the season. I don't care for colored lights; I strongly resist the appearance of any Christmas decor until Thanksgiving has been given due honor; I feel like a hypocrite when singing "I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas"(cuz I'm so NOT!); I really dislike Christmas cards with only a canned verse and someone's signature at the bottom, assembly-line style; I truly prefer my wonderful-smelling, freshly cut, not completely perfect Frasier Fir tree to an artificial one....but the immense PRESSURE to cave and go fake is starting to get to me!!! Even my husband is threatening mutiny due to the higher costs of the real trees each year. Some of my Christmas soul may die when I have to give in to the pressure. *sigh*

*Ah, but lest you think I am Scrooge-ish, let me assure you there are plenty of things about the season that warms me 'art. For one thing, I am SO appreciating the opportunity of recognizing the ADVENT SEASON this year as a family. We've never done it during family devotions, only during Advent Sundays at church. I think focusing on Advent is drawing our minds back to the real reason for the season (at the risk of sounding cliche') every evening. I also love the traditional Carols of Christmas. The last several years we have been reading about the stories behind the songs of Christmas, and sharing them with our congregation. Really makes the songs come alive. As aforementioned, I LOVE the smell of the fir tree in the living room. Love the mistletoe ball that hangs in the kitchen doorway, giving an excuse to Mommy and Daddy for a little extra smoochin'. I love it when someone says Merry Christmas. Get a little tingly feeling almost every time. Good stuff.

So that's about it for now. I don't have pics from the concert yet, and don't have my Christmas decor pics uploaded yet, don't have the videos ready to upload. But I do have a few recital pics, so I'm gonna post those in closing! Trust your season is Merry and Bright!

Mystery Dinner and Crazy Kids

Derek and I recently had the pleasure of attending a Mystery Dinner. So many times we wanted to do one of these with our close friends while we were living close enough, but we never got around to it. With our crazy gang of friends, it sure would be a blast! (I see Nate, Julia, Kayla....all playing their roles to the hilt~!) Anyway, this particular function was for the "YAMS" like group in our church, though not everyone wanted to participate in anything 'dress-up'. Spoil Sports! The mystery was entitled "Mystery in the Library"; we were each assigned roles to play and given just enough info about our particular character to share in conversation facilitated by Sherlock Holmes (our Pastor); all the characters were from classic works in a library who would come out of their books after dark and interact with one another. At the end of the evening we were each given individual time to reflect on all that was revealed by the various characters, and to write down who we thought had done away with King Henry VIII. Derek and I played Alice in Wonderland and the Mad Hatter. We had a ball! I was most pleased with myself for piecing a costume together mostly from the Goodwill!:) Gotta love a bargain. Derek rented his hat and put the rest together from his closet. Here are a few pics...

As for the "crazy kids" part of this post....my children have kept me hopping in recent days. Our youngest, the beloved baby, is now crawling all over the place and into everything. My heart breaks that we have reached the constant "no-no" and hand smacking days. He's my baby! (uttered with a stifled wail.) The first time I had to do this, Lauren was horrified. "WHAT ARE YOU DOING?" I explained that the training process had begun and she had been through it too. She remains skeptical. Speaking of Lauren, after a lunch outing with Jam the other day (my kids' name for my mom), she informed me that Rafferty's was, (and I quote) "the most horriblest place I have ever aten, and I don't ever want to go there again." After which she dutifully shuddered. Can this really be my kid? Is a DNA test required? I promise I am teaching her the rules of grammar slowly. But it's that drama queen living in her somewhere.....now where could she possibly get that from????????? (asked innocently and with all sincerity). Cameron walks up to me with an ad for a hot ticket Christmas item the other day, and asks for my phone. I ask why. He informs me there is a number for the company, and he's gonna call and ask them to send him one of their toys. This said with a HUGE smile spread on his innocent little face, and with his tell-tale lilting lisp in his voice. Ah, to be so naive! Doesn't he know if it were that simple, Mama would be spending her days curled up on the couch with all her favorite flyers in her lap and her phone permanently attached to her ear?!? Now, to share something about the Sophster. Where do I begin? She is my "one". I guess I go back to Thanksgiving week while visiting at G-pa and Nana's. Sophie had mistreated her sister, for which she was reprimanded. I noticed a few minutes later she was no longer in the room. So I go down the hall to the bedroom, door slightly ajar, and hear her just talking away. I peek in and she has the big crocodile tears streaming, and she is bemoaning her plight in life. I step inside and quietly ask her what she's doing. My heart melts when she informs me that she is talking to God. (my long-term readers may remember this trend with her speaking to God and He to her!) So I say, "Did you ask Him to forgive you, Sophie?" Tears immediately gone. Face turned up to mine, wide-eyed. Small shoulder shrug. "Ohhhhh...I FORGOT about that part!!!!!!!!"

Yep, those are my kids! :)

Overheard by Mommy

*while driving to join the Youth who were camping
Lauren: I can't wait to make s'mores!
Cameron: Mommy, you know you don't have to have a campfire to make s'mores. You can just put it all together and stick it in the oven. (typical boy, always searching for practicality)
Mommy: I know, Cameron, but campfire is the fun way!
Lauren: Yeah, Cameron, besides...that's the traditional way; the way the Indians did it. Right, Mommy?!?

*Upon being teased by her sister for a mis-pronounced word
Sophie: (emphatically) SIZZY! I can say it however I want. Don't you know I'm in Sophie-world?! (Sad thing is, she spends a lot of time in Sophie world; I just didn't know she had a name for it!)

*and now, some pics....just for the kicks of it!



Lauren received the desire of her heart a couple of weeks ago, and finally got to go horse-back riding. Whoa, just had a major Jani flashback! Lauren LOVES horses, and Jonathan's girlfriend Monee' shows horses with her family. They graciously allowed Lauren to ride this mare, and she was a true natural. Nothing like seeing sheer joy on the face of a child.
This was a snapshot I took of the children on our first day of school....funny how they don't look that alert and chipper on every subsequent morning of the school year!
Reagan cut his first tooth two weeks ago, on his 8 month b'day, and his days revolve around smiling and playing with his sisters and brother, and playing patty-cake. He is the sunshine of our home. So glad God gave us our little caboose!

Lists, Locks, and Learning

I'm making a list of promises to myself. They're just little things, really. But I'm sorta like Kimber in the whole list-making thing. I'm not a disciplined person by nature. In fact, that's putting it mildly. It's probably the biggest weakness I have. When you're a homeschooling mother of four, you better full-well get your act together and learn to be disciplined and organized! So I'm list-making. I promise to have clean undies in the drawers, so nobody has to go digging through the dryer for them...I promise to have the dining room table cleaned up every night, and ready for breakfast and school the next day...I promise to speak words of encouragement to my husband and my children EVERY day...and the list goes on and on. I feel like probably the last woman on the face of the earth to have to make such a list. It comes naturally to do these things...doesn't it?


Once again, life is all about striking those proper balances. As I mentioned before, we've been feeling plain "yucky" around here. Can't seem to shake the thing. So today was one of those 'laying around' kinda days. But all is not lost on days like this. My Sophie is my busy, busy bee. Goes a million miles a minute. Changes clothes a half dozen (or more) times a day. Makes up all kinds of imaginative tales. Cooks up all kinds of imaginary meals. Doesn't slow down for much at all. But TODAY, she snuggled up with me on the couch. Just huggin', talkin', gigglin', and lovin' on each other. And then I brushed her hair, attempting her first- ever french braid...which didn't last long. Unlike her big sister, Sophie's strawberry blonde 'locks' are fine and wispy. Hasn't grown nearly as long as Lauren's had by age 4. But Sophie was so proud of it, even if it did fall out in no time! SO, I enjoyed that down-time with my girl. Nothin' big, and it's not like I'm not with her 24 hours of every day...but it was just nice~!

I feel so enriched, and inspired by the things that many of you share on your blogs from time to time. It's hard to imagine that even this time a year ago, the word "blog" wasn't even in my vocabulary! And I think I mean that quite literally! But even as I entered into this world with a little fear and trembling, it didn't take long to realize that there was going to be benefits to reap from this kind of connection. I have learned things from others, received important reminders about priorities, and enjoyed the recommendations from people I respect! It's all good....and I thank you for the things that you share.

Well, the lull of the cool-mist humidifier is beckoning me...I really should invest in one of those 'white-noise' machines. I've come to love having that kind of sound filling the silence of the night. Anybody have one of those or know anything about it?

(Some weeks ago, we took the children to sing for the patients on the TCU"transitional care unit" Ward of the local hospital. They drew pictures, passed out treats, and visited with these dear people, a couple of whom were 100 years old! It was a good servanthood experience for the children...and for their parents. )

Random Ramblings...

Jenny observed about herself that she is wildly inconsistent, and yet very opinionated. That thought describes me so well these days that I just decided to open this blog with it, and get it out there. So there you have it. If you can trust the writings and ramblings of such a one, then read on, dear people!

I begin with the fact that I have been in such an oddly contradictive mood regarding my blogging. I have been vascillating frequently (in my mind) between closing up shop and not posting anything new at all, and then sitting here typing all kinds of blogs on various topics and just leaving them in my 'drafts' folder and not publishing them. There's been a lot of miscellaneous tidbits floating between the ears lately. And they're probably not even worth sharing!

One such thought is in regards to a Saturday afternoon debate I shared with my cousin, Jeremy. (who, incidentally I should ask your prayers for; he joined the Army and left earlier today for Boot Camp). This discussion was about the blending of SWEET and SAVORY. I do NOT like them blended: i.e., breakfast sandwiches where pancakes serve as the 'bun' for sausage, egg, and cheese(ew!), or a Bennigan's Monte Cristo sandwich where there is raspberry jam spread on turkey, swiss, rye, etc., and MOST HIDEOUS OF ALL, he told me about a Krispy Kreme HAMBURGER, PEOPLE!! Literally, a cheeseburger with a Krispy Kreme donut serving as the bun. I find this wrong on so many levels. Quite disturbing. We went 'round and 'round about this, but I remain faithful to convictions against the mixing of sweet and savory. So I threatened to do an online poll. But I'll settle for your comments on this to suffice. Whad'ya think?

This whole online tagging game roused some interesting observations about myself. For one thing, my first reaction to it was sort of "ugh", and I don't really know why. Upon further introspection, I think that my first thought was rather 'panicky', like I didn't have anything interesting to share. If you've read my blog for long, you would know that I consider my life to be very blessed as a wife and mother. I take the role seriously. But for some reason, when asked to name SEVEN things about MYSELF ALONE....I panicked!!! I think, without realizing it, that I had bought into some sub-conscious mumbo jumbo about being just a stay-at-home mom. Maybe somebody without much to offer when everything is stripped away and it's just me. I found that discovery surprising. Meanwhile, I went on to complete the tag task, and found that once I got into it I really enjoyed the trip down memory lane looking back at some things that were mostly about me. It's a fine line between self-obsession in this world and losing yourself completely.

School is going well. It's coming along consistently, which is a good feeling. I can't say that I've fallen in love with the Abeka program yet, but I am finding certain things to be very valuable. I think it was Laura F. that mentioned to me how great the drilling aspect of these early grades are, and she's definitely right. Abeka is great for drills. I'm still trying to figure out how to customize the program more to blend with the whole "homeschool" philosophy. It's a bit of a challenge. But at any rate, we're doing well, and I'm grateful for that.

We always like to encourage the kids to share their thoughts and suggestions for field trips, educational learning opportunities, etc. So we're driving along the other day, and Lauren asks, "Mommy, I have somewhere I'd like for our family to go for a field trip." "Sure, sweetie, what's your idea?" "Could we go to Egypt?" She couldn't really understand why I laughed.

Sonja blogged about the effect of sleep deprivation. There is indeed a reason why it is an approved torture technique to extract info from enemy combatants. My precious baby is having some sleep issues the last couple of weeks. After all the bragging I'd done about what a good baby, good sleeper....yada yada yada. (when will mommies learn not to do that?!?) I am convinced that there is something far worse than not getting sleep at all: it would have to be going to sleep...being awakend....going to sleep....being awakened.....going to sleep....being.., well, you get the idea. That can make a person crazy in not too short of time. Maybe I'm there, already.

One of my non-published blogs was about how I don't want to die alone. Long story short, my mom's 66 yr old cousin died last week. We provided music for the funeral on Saturday. This lady was an example to me in this: her life had held so much sorrow and heartache, and yet she maintained a deep faith and a desire to find strength in God. She had endured the death of her two precious little children, one as a baby, and the other as an 8 yr. old. Her husband had to have a heart transplant years ago, and has had to deal with all the issues that come with being a donor recipient, and her health has been poor as well. He died four months ago. And last Tuesday, she died during the night, alone. It seemed so sad, and so very lonely. Then I realized that at that moment, in Heaven, an entire family was reunited. What a comfort! What a hope!

I think I'm like most parents in that sometimes I've felt a twinge of a guilt for even bringing children into this world. Looking around, listening in, paying attention to the news, you could easily become disillusioned and think this world's no place for a child, anyway. I heard a preacher today comment that there could have been no worse time to have a baby than when Moses was born! Unless it would have been when Jesus himself was born into this world: baby boys were on a most wanted list. So, that gave a little perspective on that. For what it's worth. He did go on to remind me of a very important truth. Yes, children are an heritage of the Lord. Yes, blessed is the man whose quiver is full. Yes, having children can bring great joy. But the REAL joy isn't simply in the reproducing of children. The real joy comes from training those children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. To succeed in that awesome task is/must be/will be the fulfillment of the blessing in parenting. With God's help and by His grace, we trust that we will know that complete joy of having our whole family serving the King.

The View From Where I Sit.....

So today I decided it was "time" for a little blogging. My little village of bloggers has been strangely silent as of late. I am confident that this is because of the incessant busy-ness that can dominate in the summer months. I also know that wherever you all are, and whatever it is that you're doing, you're probably having a wonderful time making memories with your respective families. And I look forward to all the reports when life settles down a bit.

We have had storms. Glorious, magnificent, earth-drenching thunderstorms. Like good, old-fashioned Florida squalls that smell divine. One evening, while the children were tucked away upstairs playing, I sneaked out onto the front porch for just a second to deeply inhale of it. Just a second alone.......but alas, Mommies are never alone! Sure enough, Lauren caught me in the act, and was aghast and very indignant that I would be out in a storm. (her daddy has lectured her about staying away from windows, etc., during lightning storms.) She insisted that I come in. I was chastised. "Mommy, maybe sometimes parents should take their children's advice, and come INSIDE during storms!"

During one such storm last week, our computer cable was struck by lightning, despite being plugged in to a surge protector. So, apparently the USB thingy was destroyed, and I can't get online. One reason why I haven't blogged much lately. Today I am using the church computer.

We have begun a new sort of "tradition" around here that is developing into something really special. At the beginning of each month I mark a date for each one of the three older children to have a "date with Daddy" and a "date with Mommy." This means twice each month they are each getting some one-on-one time with each parent These dates are not anything earth-shattering or expensive. Usually involve a carry-out lunch to the park (or, Sophie had her Daddy take her to the local scrapbook store to do a 'craft'; all her idea and very cute!). Anyway, I can't believe how much this practice has affected attitudes and behaviors for the better. While this is intended for just some quality fun, it is also a great opportunity to have good talks about personal concerns and questions. And to share values. When you have a family of six, it's not always easy, but vitally important. We have been glad that the effort has paid off so well.

I'm one of those weirdos who has deprived my children of Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny. By that, I simply mean that when my kids ask me if those characters are real, I tell them the truth. Not because I'm a stick in the mud or have some conviction against either one; only because I have a hard time keeping up the charade to make my kids believe in something that's only gonna let them down a few years later. For any of you parents who pull off a convincing Santa ruse, more power to you!!! I said all that to say that I have indulged my kids belief in ONE single solitary fairy tale: the Tooth Fairy. Don't know why, exactly. Just don't see the harm in it. And when they ask if there's really a tooth fairy, in good conscience I say of course there is. (I am the Tooth Fairy, after all.) So now you think I'm nuts. It's okay. You've probably suspected for a long time anyway. :) A few days ago, Cameron got a little cut on his finger. It's been bugging him like crazy. Today, we're driving down the road and he pipes up from the back seat, "Mommy, is there a Finger Fairy?". "WHAT in the world are you talking about, boy?!?" He wanted to know if his finger-tip fell off would she take it and get him a new one. Are you all sufficiently concerned for the welfare of my children now??! **I feel I should clarify that I am a lover of and a believer in fairy tales. We read them and enjoy them for exactly what they are. My kids have my genes are well-rounded in their dramatic and imaginative capabilities. This disclaimer is compliments of Marty's chiding~I think she has me pictured as the mother on the original Miracle on 34th Street!!**

Reagan has been enjoying his first servings of cereal, and eats from his spoon like a little pro. He's five months now and a big 'ole boy. So I started him on solids a little sooner than the others. He's also been getting his exercise in his new Exersaucer that his Jam bought him. I have great pics of these momentous events, but they're on my own aforementioned computer that is wounded. I wonder if Reagan will have a more difficult time in life when everywhere he goes and everything he does won't draw a crowd to celebrate it. Around here, his every move is "oohed and ahhhed" over by his brother and sisters. They think he is really something great. And he loves them dearly in return. Lights up like a Christmas tree (oh, yes..I DO allow one of those!) whenever they come around.

So that is a little of the view from where I sit. Hope you've found something enjoyable in it!

Blessings on you all this week.

"You must be so proud...."

Today we learned the famous story of George Washington and the cherry tree. I am such a sap for these deeply patriotic stories of our founding fathers. I almost get weepy. So I told the story with great gusto, emphasizing all the areas that I planned to use for character training, i.e. honesty, etc. When I was finished, and ready for the application part of the lesson, I waited eagerly for Cameron to narrate back to me the key parts of the story. Instead, I heard,

"Mommy, when I get older, will you buy me a hatchet like that?"

Talk about being brought down from your high horse. I'm so proud.

A Week in Pictures

The story of my life this week can best be told in pictures. Busy week of school-work with the children. It was a good one, though. Lauren has been learning about early Rome, and had done a study on Augustus Cesear. It was exciting to her this week, to learn that Jesus was born during this Emperor's reign. Part of her assigned history reading was the story of Jesus' birth from the Bible! She thought that was so cool and it just brought the History to life for her so much more. She is also learning the first steps of composition writing, what it means to proofread, etc. In Math, the focus is on adding and subtracting multiple numbers along with listing their related fact families. She has fun with that. It was a good week of the three R's for her!

Cameron has also been busy working on finishing up Kindergarten. The primary focus there is, of course, READING! But we're also working on writing. This seems to be harder with boys than with girls, in my experience. But we're getting there! He is also learning all about the 13 Colonies, and Early American History. This is proving to be a fun study for the whole family, as we are planning a family vacation to D.C. in a few weeks. I feel they will be better prepared to appreciate the things we see and experience after having learned about it beforehand.

We also worked very hard in our yard landscaping this weekend. (Derek hates it when I say "we" since he really did the bulk of the hard work!) But I did help and so did the kids! At this point, I only have 'before' pics, because we're gonna have to finish up in the morning. Saturday just went by way too fast, as we had my Dad's birthday dinner to attend that evening.










But these are a few pics of the work in progress. I will need to post some 'after' shots when it looks better!


We did enjoy a nice evening out
celebrating my dad's birthday.
Went to one of the best steak-houses around,
and had fun hanging out with the fam.







AND FINALLY, I HAVE SAVED THE BEST FOR LAST. IN HONOR OF MY DEAR FRIEND, HEEEERULD, I WILL POST A FEW PICS OF OUR WONDERFUL TRIP TO THE ALE8 FACTORY. PLEASE ENJOY!




A picture of the bust of the GENIUS who created Ale8, Mr. Wainscott. View reverently, please.

So there you have it. My last seven days in a snapshot view. Not too terribly exciting, I know. But it was time for a new blog and this is what I have to offer!
Hope you all have a fantabulous week!

Blessings,
Tara