tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-45635141870021256812024-03-13T14:27:10.226-05:00HopscotchWendihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786388400106792698noreply@blogger.comBlogger457125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4563514187002125681.post-38745583162992959792015-02-03T21:34:00.002-06:002015-02-03T21:34:47.160-06:00Where Bad Days Don't ExistWe have all read the book "Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day". Alexander seems to have had everything wrong possible happen to him- at least in his school-aged mind, and he has determined that it is the worst day ever. Saying that you are having a "bad day" is almost a defeatist attitude. <br />
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I personally do not allow that phrase in my house, mostly because if we have already defined the day as bad, it must continue to be bad. In close quarters, if one of six of us is having a bad day, all six of us are affected. That makes life miserable for me. Therefore, no bad days are allowed. <br />
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Bad experience? Sure. Bad moments? Certainly. Bad attitudes? You bet. These things can be turned around. But saying it is a bad day at 10:00am is a recipe for disaster. <br />
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This morning we discussed Paul's appeal to Caesar and his travels, where there seemed to be a trail of disasters. After being shipwrecked at Malta, a viper fastened on to his hand, so Paul shook it off and went on with his work. The natives expected him to swell up and fall down, but nothing happened, so they thought he was a god. <br />
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Our morning discussions are quite interesting and unplanned, and this one in particular had me thinking. I said, "What if we could just shake off anything bad that happens to us? What would life look like?"<br />
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I have to take a break here and explain- I am not saying that anything of the sort is simple. But if we study and believe what the Bible says, I think it is very clear that it is possible. In fact, it is how God wants us to live, in complete trust of His protection. So, I am not teaching my children that is how I expect them to live, but suggesting the idea of it and imagining what that would be like. That is where we begin. <br />
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The children looked skeptical, maybe even confused. So I asked, "Did Jesus ever have a bad day?"<br />
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"Yeah, the day he died!"<br />
"The day he died was the day he made a sacrifice for all of our sins, allowing us to have salvation. Is that a bad day?"<br />
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"The day Lazarus died?"<br />
"That day allowed Him to show His resurrection power to the people, and Lazarus was eventually raised from the dead. Was that really a bad day?"<br />
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"The day John the Baptist had his head cut off?"<br />
"That was the day Jesus fed 5000."<br />
"Oh."<br />
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Bad things happened to Jesus, and yes, he cried. However, he was never defeated. <br />
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That attitude is something I'd love to see develop in my children. <br />
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Wendihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786388400106792698noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4563514187002125681.post-64570000297745385352015-01-20T23:05:00.000-06:002015-01-20T23:05:57.997-06:00The Glory of the OrdinaryIt was a normal day. Just me and the kids. Piles of laundry, endless dishes, math to learn, bills to pay. <br />
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A normal day in January. <br />
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The thing that I have noticed is that circumstances don't have to determine my mood, though they try. Nothing big happened, but I determined to enjoy it. <br />
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I was even out of coffee. <br />
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I didn't need to brag about my domestic skills.<br />
I didn't need to debate any stance.<br />
I didn't need to prove my competence. <br />
I didn't need to make my kids smart to avoid judgment. <br />
I didn't need to feed into perfection.<br />
I got to watch them play.<br />
I was able to dictate the stories they wrote. <br />
I was pampered with undercooked omelets.<br />
I witnessed childhood bliss.<br />
I rejoiced at their knowledge of fractions. <br />
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I hugged. I took it all in. I saw the glory of the ordinary. <br />
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<strong><em>So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God's Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, "Abba, Father." -Romans 8:15</em></strong><span class="p"><br /></span><span class="versiontext"></span>Wendihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786388400106792698noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4563514187002125681.post-40851516286508554842015-01-12T22:30:00.000-06:002015-01-12T22:30:25.601-06:00Soup MathLet's face it. Some kids are just better students than others. I was one that was an "other". It amazes me that out of four, only one of my own children struggles with reading and math worksheets as much as I did. <br />
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Ironically, I love to read and do math now. Makes me wonder if it wasn't the reading and math that was the problem. At any rate, I am sure that I was a classroom teacher's thorn in the flesh. <br />
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With this in mind, I decided that maybe the problem wasn't my student, but the teacher. I have always felt that a good photographer can take a picture of a trash heap and make it look beautiful. In the same way, a good teacher can take a struggling student and make them feel accomplished. <br />
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I am not saying that I have succeeded entirely, but I am making the effort. Where does this student shine? The kitchen, no doubt. Worksheets and math drills frustrate her to no end, but in the kitchen, everything she touches turns to.. well, something yummy.<br />
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The kitchen is our classroom, and soup is our lesson. I took one of our go-to soup recipes of which I have not taken a look at the recipe in years. I simply dump everything together. Her assignment was to write the recipe with measurements. Here are the steps we took:<br />
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1. I handed her a pot for soup and told her to measure the water that we would start with. The pot would be about 2/3 full. <br />
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2. We had three potatoes, all about the same size. We weighed each potato and discovered that they were all within one ounce of each other in weight.<br />
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3. I explained what AP (as purchased) and EP (edible portion) meant. We weighed one onion straight from the onion sack. Then, I cut up the onion and we weighed it one more time. We discovered that the onion lost 1 ounce of weight after the skin was shed.<br />
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4. We had two frozen bags of green beans. Each weighed one pound as stated on the bag, so we did a quick calculation of what 2 bags would weigh. <br />
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4. She cut up a ham into cubes and weighed the total amount that was to be put in the soup. <br />
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5. We estimated the amount of spices that we would put in, keeping in mind that we would taste test after simmering and add more if needed. In the end, did not feel that was necessary. <br />
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6. Then, I had her take her notes and write out the recipe. I figured since this was the first time, I would just see how she did, then when we do this next time I would encourage her to add detail. This is her recipe:<br />
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3 and 1/4 quarts water in a large pot. Let it boil, and then put in 3 11 or 12 ounce potatoes and a 4 ounce (EP) onion. Let it cook for 5 minutes. Then, put in 1 pound and 2 ounces of ham and 2 pounds of green beans. After that, put in one tsp pepper and one tsp salt. And one tbsp. ground savory. Let it simmer. <br />
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And guess what? Supper was done as well!<br />
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Wendihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786388400106792698noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4563514187002125681.post-75386656009957098062015-01-08T23:55:00.000-06:002015-01-08T23:55:38.034-06:00Writing TherapyLast night, I worked too late and got too tired and started thinking about the off again- on again stomach aches, runny noses, irritability, and suddenly had an overwhelming fear that we were all dying from carbon monoxide poisoning. I was dead tired, but couldn't get it off my mind at all until I realized that my fear was so intense it had to be a lie. <br />
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Even so, I woke up tired, which means a slow morning. I managed to grab a yogurt and sprinkle some granola on it for breakfast. That was about the time one of my girlies ran to the refrigerator and asked if she could eat the yogurt she had picked out. Oops. <br />
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I started working on my Sunday school lesson, but then decided that if I was going to teach my children anything today, I'd better get on it. We started with the Bible lesson, as I often try to do. It was about the time when Jesus sat in the synagogue and read from the prophets, ending in "today this scripture is fulfilled". I looked at my children, half paying attention and said, "You are not getting this!" I so badly wanted them to understand the significance of Jesus revealing that He was the Messiah in his hometown. My brain was saying, "they are 10... ish. Of course they don't get it. But my mouth would not stop. I got my preach on. I should have been standing at a pulpit. By the end, I was almost yelling. <br />
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"The people of Nazareth would not believe Him, but others did. WHY?"<br />
One timid response, "because he healed the sick?"<br />
"YES! Because He proved it in His actions! So when you say you are a Christian, can people see it in your actions? In the store, when you are fighting?? ARE YOU A CHRISTIAN?? <br />
*timid nods*<br />
"THEN START ACTING LIKE IT!" After a long pause, I decided that should be enough lecture for the day. <br />
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Savannah then told us about her Roald Dahl Book where his Priest kept teaching about forgiveness and mercy, but when someone did something wrong, he'd whip them with a cane. She said that the priest was really good at whipping, but I really can't hurt anyone. I told her I'd practice more, then. <br />
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We reviewed our root words from yesterday, which included medi, which can make the derivative "mediator". <br />
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About then, they told me they were hungry. Pshaw. I wasn't. I'd just finished breakfast. <br />
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They made quesadillas while I made a phone call. Of course, they had a knock down drag out fight while I was on the phone. After a while, I came in to talk it out. Then I declared what a great mediator I was. <br />
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After lunch, we put skeletons together so we could learn about bones. Our new favorite word is phalanges. After a lot of chaos and several tears shed, the girls each named their skeleton and hung them on the wall. I went to find the camera so I could take a picture with each next to their large skeletons, but I had no idea where the camera is. Sill don't. <br />
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More drama, hurt feelings, tears.<br />
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Max and I made butter with the mixer, and after I was splattered all over by the buttermilk, I remembered that Savannah had made me an apron for Christmas. <br />
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Later, we experimented with popcorn. However, we mis-read the directions and didn't do the prep work correctly so that did not get finished till after supper. We made three batches of popcorn on the stove while I was shaking the wok with five kids crowded around me to watch it pop. Did you know popcorn pops because there is water in it? And did you know that three batches is super painful to the arms?<br />
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A quarrel over who gets to blow out the scented candles. <br />
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At this point, I am exhausted, I have done two loads of dishes and expecting at least one more when I realize that if we are to eat sandwiches tomorrow, we need bread. Is there really such a thing as a clean kitchen? Please tell me no. <br />
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Because I am too distracted to deal with bed time, the kids make up a game called "guess who is in the eggroll", where one person leaves the room and the others roll themselves up in a blanket like an eggroll. When they are done, the first person has to guess who is in which eggroll.<br />
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So, we skip my read-aloud time so my already aching arms can knead the bread. What? No Kitchen-Aid stand mixer, you say? No. I work 15 hours a day FOR FREE. I have to save up for new socks.<br />
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And as we prepare for bed, one of my darlings said, "Mom, do you remember what you said about acting like Christians? We didn't do so good today."<br />
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Secretly, Mom is just excited that something stuck in their heads. <br />
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You know, once in a while someone will tell me that their cousin or aunt homeschools and will tack on the end, "but I think it is because she is too lazy to send her kids to school." I guess it is possible, but highly improbable. <br />
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In any event, it all is worth it. <br />
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Wendihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786388400106792698noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4563514187002125681.post-87441779764108866782014-12-08T21:08:00.000-06:002014-12-08T21:08:31.598-06:00All Is Well That Ends WellI slept in today until 9:30 or so. That means the kids were watching Netflix. I woke up a failure. Yes, I have a cold that has knocked me out except for when I'm supposed to be sleeping so I went to bed at 1:00 last night, but 9:30 never seems justifiable.<br />
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We ate lunch at 2. And before that, I had to run to Wal-Mart because there was no food for lunch, so I threw on something clean, which was a red shirt that is a little too tight an a pair of jeans that were a little too big. It was the kind of mismatched outfit that, if one is not careful and gets distracted, the shirt may creep up and the pants might sag down and some belly might show. This might be cute on some people, but not with this for times prego marshmallow-bellied mama. And when one goes shopping with Brooke, one gets distracted. Fail. <br />
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We had spaghetti with red sauce, and it sounded like a great idea for Summer to make her famous garlic bread, but the bread turned out to be moldy. <br />
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They fought. I mentally escaped to a land where no children existed. I didn't make them do their work because I didn't want to deal with it. Then, I got bitter. Then they got bitter. <br />
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I stopped reading in the middle of the bedtime book because the kept interrupting me with tattles. Max got no book. Bedtime was cold. <br />
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And after I had settled into my alone time, my youngest daughter exits her room (dangerous move), comes to hug me, and says, "Well, this was a good day. Goodnight." <br />
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I don't know if she meant it or if she just said it to make me feel better, but it worked. It ended well. Wendihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786388400106792698noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4563514187002125681.post-47251071594024698052014-10-17T23:33:00.000-05:002014-10-17T23:33:36.788-05:00Creative GeniusI'm just a mom, but I've come up with my own theories based on observation. <br />
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#1: Everyone is a genius. That is, in something. Some people's genius congregates in the area of mathematics, some genius hang around in one's musical understanding, and some people in wit. Some people's genius spread all around, with no ability to outshine in one area but compiling what they know in their eclectic mind, enjoying multiple disciplines. <br />
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Some people have their genius obviously pegged. Some will live the tragedy of never knowing theirs.<br />
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So if my theory is right, and you call someone stupid, or slow, or "special", you are wrong. Dead wrong. And, you have denied yourself the ability to witness a hidden genius- and possibly denied it for them as well. <br />
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My children may have been influenced by myself and their father through nature or nurture, but I can assure you that their genius has shown itself in different ways. My oldest is obviously the "smartest"... if you mean "smartest" by understanding her school work and able to get it done efficiently and with excellent results.<br />
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My second born, complete opposite. But oh my, you should see her in the kitchen... and if you could only listen to our private talks. Genius, pure genius. <br />
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My third born... you either love her or hate her. I love her, of course. She writes her e's backwards and still needs a number line to add. She is off the wall crazy with her thoughts. But when you calm her down and really understand what she is thinking? Can I tell you I just can't wait to see what she will be in 20 years? She said Librarian because she loves to read, but I'm quite sure she could not keep her mouth shut long enough to comply with rules of volume. <br />
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#2: Creativity can reveal itself in multiple ways. <br />
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There are those that call themselves creative because they are crafty. They like to find the instructions of how to do something and can make it incredibly beautiful- truly gifted in aesthetics. Or they can take a tradition or trending "pins" and make a happy life out of it. These people go hog-wild in creativity within the bounds of what is deemed appropriate by someone else.<br />
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Then, there are those that live outside any defined limitations. These are the dreamers and trend setters. They are also the messy, cluttered ones. The ones that are completely unaware of what they really "should" be doing- mostly because they don't care. Most of them are misunderstood... because who can understand why they do what they do?<br />
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This is where I live. That is why I hate scrap booking. It is so limiting to me.. I must follow a template with certain colors and stickers already made. Why, when I can make my own? Of course, I don't have time to make my own stickers with homemade puffy paint and glitter, so I don't do it. Not because I am not creative, but because I am creative. <br />
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I am so far out of the way people think I am supposed to live- I married the wrong kind of guy and wear the wrong kind of clothes and raise my children in the wrong kind of way... that is, to the crafty Suzie homemaker looking into my life. Yet, I am so happy. <br />
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But enough about me. My point is these two theories have enabled me to understand my neighbor better, and hopefully have been a better one. You see, I'm a fixer. Life circumstances have shaped this in me, and at times I have tried to fix people. However, we are not here to fix people, but enhance them. Shine the light on their genius and creativity. And for goodness sakes, learn from them and enjoy them as how they are. How glad we should be to be surrounded by so many creative geniuses! How much more joy we will have when we encourage that in others, especially children!<br />
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I have found that the most frustrating thing to me is when people misunderstand me- my intentions, my words, and my genius. It is so confining when we let people heap judgments on us from their limited viewpoint. So why would I want to do that to someone else?<br />
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<em>....love your neighbor as yourself...</em></div>
Wendihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786388400106792698noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4563514187002125681.post-19387663719555265822014-08-05T22:31:00.000-05:002014-08-05T22:31:31.405-05:00Trial AddictThe most amazing thing has happened to me... my fingernails are growing. My entire 37 years of life have included flimsy, brittle nails. A large part of those years they were bitten by a nervous child, skeptical about nearly everything. The world never made sense to this introverted juvenile living in an extroverted world. <br />
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Geez, I wish I knew that I had it so good. <br />
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Suddenly, I noticed that there was a need for me to file my nails down. They're practically indestructible. So the obvious question is, "what's made the difference?"<br />
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I really don't know, but they started growing about the same time I decided to stop being a trial addict. <br />
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I don't enjoy drama- well, not in real life anyways, but I'm always dealing with things. Trials. Hard times. Victimization. Burdens. Then, one day I realized I didn't have to. It was quick and sudden, like stepping into a threshold of a new world. As I turned and looked back, however, I realized it was a long, troublesome journey there. <br />
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God gets you where He wants you, changing you step by step. Revealing one thing here, and one thing there. Oh, where will this journey take me? Only one thing I know: it will turn out good. <br />
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You see, that troublesome journey I've taken wasn't that bad, but I was the trouble maker. In my mind, I thought it needed to be tough. I needed to be stronger, I needed to learn more, perfect my faith, or take the role of the martyr. <br />
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But that is not it at all. What a tragic life, to be given the most beautiful gifts, and then smearing them ugly with our own negative scum.<br />
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The things- painful things around me are still there, but they are not a trial if I don't make it to be. My husband tells me of his childlike perspective as refugees and re-education camps in then newly communist Laos, and for the most part, the stories are light hearted. He was a child, and he trusted that he would be taken care of. The brunt of the pain was not for him.<br />
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It is not for us either. We can live above the trials and in the fullness of His glory, no matter what the circumstances are. That is a truth that is too good to keep to myself.<br />
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Isaiah 28:12</div>
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<span class="highl"><em>He who said to them, "Here is rest, give rest to the weary," And, "Here is repose," but they would not listen</em>.</span> </div>
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Matthew 11:28-29</div>
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<span class="reftext"><em>Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest."Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS.…</em></span></div>
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Wendihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786388400106792698noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4563514187002125681.post-71327659855000345782014-06-10T23:00:00.000-05:002014-06-10T23:00:32.755-05:00KolacheShe remembers these things. Long ago, I was either too lazy to make breakfast or plumb out of food, but we stopped at the local kolache bakery. I'm just curious.. is it normal to have kolache bakeries in your neighborhood? <br />
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Anyway, we do! We ate them, and she never forgot. I have not been back, for a reason unknown to everyone except my inner stubbornness to not buy something that I am capable of making myself. It only took about two years to get around to doing it. <br />
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She picked two things to work on this summer: piano and baking. First thing on the list to bake: kolaches. Even then, I didn't get around to it and she has made one batch of chocolate chip cookies and four batches of snickerdoodles, but tonight was kolache trial #1. Not bad, although I think I over-baked them while reading Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle from the back bedroom. Who knows how long the beeper was going off before we actually heard it. <br />
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So, I'm not writing to promote a wonderful recipe, but rather log my memory. I know she will remember. <br />
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It had just stopped raining for the second day in a row with a high of 68 degrees in June. The windows were open, letting in the soothing sounds of the sweet, cool breeze. Supper was ready, and we had a few minutes to whip up a batch of sweet dough, just for the fun of it. One child was listening to music on a tablet, one practicing her marble game, and the boy on the front steps waiting for Daddy's car to appear down the street. <br />
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That moment was the sweetest one of the day. My soul was at rest. Oh, to live right there in rest. I was not offended, not worried, not planning anything, and completely ignoring the things needed to be done but couldn't right now. <br />
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My children are confused with my feelings toward them. "Mom, is it hard to have children?" they ask. <br />
I cannot lie. "Yep." <br />
"Then you wish you never had us?"<br />
"Never! You are exactly what I want!"<br />
"But you said it is hard."<br />
"Baby, the hard things are the very best things." I smile. <br />
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I have a good life. The best part is, few can see it, because it is the small things that make it good. Today it was the kolache. <br />
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Wendihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786388400106792698noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4563514187002125681.post-73482437804685075232014-05-30T23:33:00.000-05:002014-05-30T23:33:15.872-05:00SummertimeOur summer started a bit early this year upon completion of our curriculum. Although their free time has been lengthened, learning won't stop ;) I would like to make it a habit to blog more throughout the summertime. It makes me reflect and be thankful. <br />
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A few years back, I was having a pity party because I would love to take my children on fun trips around the country- or the world for that matter, but never seem to have the funds or time. So we determined to explore our own backyard instead- Kansas, that is (or Missouri since it is closer than most of Kansas to us). Day trips. <br />
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Yeah, that was a good move on our part. I see at as preparation for exploration of the world. I would like to note that I would love to see the Eiffel Tower someday (soon!), the Northern Lights, and some rainforest where I am in little danger of being eaten by a large snake (worst way to die). I plan to. But until then, there's Kansas- because it is a true spirit of an explorer to find the wonder of Podunk. It takes character to value the insignificant. It is true happiness to wonder at small treasures, whether it be in nature, history, people, or accomplishments. If we can do this, how much more exciting will it be in Paris?<br />
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I read recently that Kansas is the least desirable state to tour. That's okay with me because I happen to like fantastic finds with little crowds. However, I won't feel sorry for Kansans that complain of boredom. Seriously? Bleeding Kansas? Air Capitol? The Wizard of Oz? Brown vs. Board? Amelia Earhart, George Washington Carver, and Dwight D. Eisenhower? <br />
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Okay, rant over. I plan to have a fantastic summer. Here's to a blessed May.<br />
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Wendihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786388400106792698noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4563514187002125681.post-56437176620399576352014-05-25T01:47:00.000-05:002014-05-25T01:58:56.095-05:00Pick OneTo my children-<br />
<br />
You are young, and sometimes feel as though you lack independence because of me, your mother. I tell you what to do a lot. I tell you when to get up, I give you a limited menu for breakfast (cereal or the other cereal), I tell you to get along, to do your school, do your chores, get your shoes on, say "I'm sorry", and put a smile on your face. You may think you should have more choices, and you may be right, but don't worry too much, you'll have plenty of choices soon enough. <br />
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I have countless choices to make each day. Some are very minor, even though they may seem like life and death issues to you, in comparison, they are minor. For example: What is for lunch? Minor. Complex, yet minor. I do need to know what is in the fridge and if nothing is there, how much I want to spend on lunch. I often ask myself, "do I really want to actually cook?" I have to determine how much color will be on your plate and give myself a list of questions like, "will I be comfortable admitting that I am a dietitian after this meal?" Complex, yet minor, because in 12 hours we will have already forgotten about this decision. <br />
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Others, however, have been a little more life-altering. Like marrying your dad. I can't exactly remember why I made that choice- I'm sure there was very little logic involved- it did make a pretty big impact on me. And for you too, for that matter. All I can say is, good thing he looks good bald. None-the-less, that decision is made. I dare not change my mind because I'd hate to go through the first 10 years of marriage over. And I love him to pieces. As you know, he's my most favorite. <br />
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Another biggie was about priorities. Where would mine be? Did you know I didn't even plan for you in my life? The doctors said it would be difficult for me to have children, so I didn't get my hopes up. Now, there are four of you. I know I could have had a fantastic career. I have a great job when I'm not around you. It's my paid vacation from you, because when I'm there, I sit in a quiet office with scheduled breaks. And I have intelligent conversations with <em>adults</em>. And I get paid. Did you know I don't get paid for waiting on you 24/7? But when I leave, I get a paycheck? Did you know I had the choice to do that five days a week, but I chose once-in-a-while?<br />
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I could have chose homemaking. I could have made cleanliness, wardrobe, and manicured lawns my priority. If you weren't around so much, I might just get around to finding a home for everything we own and de-clutter effectively. However, four little people can pull out more stuff than this tired mama can put away, especially when you add cooking, laundry, vacuuming, and a cheery disposition. Your presence makes my life nearly impossible. <br />
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Or appearance. Did you know, I have not had an actual hairstyle in years? <br />
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Did you know most people in Target are richer than us?<br />
<br />
Did you know that sometimes I act crazy just to cover up the fact that I probably am?<br />
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Ya know why? Because I cannot, with clear conscience, choose anything but the life I now have. I had to choose one priority. I chose you. I chose the pleasure of building this relationship over dry clean only clothing and non-greasy hair. I chose to settle for McDonald's once in a while over RD approved meals. I chose this gross carpet and those dandelions over the magazine cover house. <br />
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Other families- <em>good families- </em>may do it differently. That's okay. I'm not the one to decide what is best for anyone but us. But I wish for you to know that often times, we won't have it all. We can't have perfection. In fact, perfection is boring. My decision, which I firmly believe is actually God's decision for us, has made me weak. I am in over my head, and I'm positive a few marbles were lost in the process. <br />
<br />
Yet, in spite of my half-missing mind, (your dad's is not much better), I feel like the luckiest person alive. Tonight, I sat in a book corner with an old and worn blanket serving as a canopy reading, "Catalina Magdalena Hoopensteiner Wallendiner Hogan Logan Bogan Was Her Name", and then listening to made up names like, "Catalina Magdalena Pillow Blanket in a Taco with Dirty Blonde Rockets into Space", followed by the beautiful harmony of laughter. <br />
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I learned that Dr. Doolittle was a playwright for many animals, serious plays for penguins and comedies for monkeys. And Jason of Iolcus may be a hero, but also incredibly foolish. I've listened to countless Boxcar stories that have burned fantasies in your minds. I know, when we bowl together, which "coaching" techniques would work best for which of you. I know when to challenge you and when to take it easy. I don't get it perfect every time, but I know better than anyone else. <br />
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I know I drive you crazy sometimes. I know that still you are crazy about me. Its pretty obvious when I was ready for peace and quiet twenty minutes ago, yet you still want another hug. You are my treasure. I pick you, and I will do whatever I can to start you off well. <br />
<br />
I choose to do this because someday you will have to make millions of choices, and a few will be life altering. I don't want those made for the wrong reasons. I want them made from true conviction, which may look like insanity to the world around you. Well, that plus the fact you are a whole lot of fun to be around. <br />
<br />
Love, Mom Wendihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786388400106792698noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4563514187002125681.post-14050034950084485492014-04-18T00:03:00.001-05:002014-04-18T00:03:49.887-05:00On Fear...During the last few weeks, I've been attempting to starve my fear and worries. It has not been easy, I've given them way too much control in my life. Its amazing where fear sneaks in. I can identify it much easier now.<br />
<br />
Most of them irrational. All of them affect my behavior. I can try to conceal it, but the only way to make the day more pleasant for everyone is to get rid of the fear. <br />
<br />
That part is getting a little easier. It gets easier when I look to the one who loves me. <br />
<br />
Thank you, God, for loving me.Wendihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786388400106792698noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4563514187002125681.post-5495834293865440112014-03-19T09:36:00.002-05:002014-03-19T09:36:53.837-05:00SpringI'll just say none of us were having a good day. <br />
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But it turned out fine. Thank God for spring.Wendihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786388400106792698noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4563514187002125681.post-66132081766310784512014-03-18T00:08:00.000-05:002014-03-18T00:08:35.316-05:00Looking ForwardI don't remember details about my childhood. A few, but not like some people. I know generalities. My mother must have talked a lot about heaven because I developed a sense of perseverance through whatever I went through, thinking that one day this will all be a memory. <br />
<br />
I long for my child-like thoughts again. <br />
<br />
With the help of the Holy Spirit, I think I am re-learning some of them. As I read history, especially the very best stories, I find that our comfort is not top priority to God. Victory is. That is what Jesus is all about- having what we need to push through the filth in order to obtain our destinies. Heaven bound. <br />
<br />
When we really know this, it makes whatever we are going through a little better. A lot better. <br />
<br />
I love the David Crowder song that says, <em>"and all of a sudden, I am unaware of the afflictions eclipsed by glory, and I realize just how beautiful you are and how great your affections are for me.."</em><br />
<em></em><br />
I had a great weekend. <br />
Family.<br />
Church.<br />
Good food.<br />
Answered prayer.<br />
Loving on my children. <br />
Jesus. <br />
<br />
One more lyrical reminder: <em>"Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face, and the things of this world will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace."</em><br />
<em></em><br />
I have much to be thankful for in the present, but the future is what puts everything in perspective. It tells us who we are, where are rightful home is, and what the King is like. Until then, we can persevere through the sewers of life and grab on to all of the bits of heaven we can receive. <br />
<br />
<em><span class="text Jas-1-16" id="en-ESV-30266">Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers.</span> <span class="text Jas-1-17" id="en-ESV-30267">Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-ESV-30267AA" title="See cross-reference AA">AA</a>)"></sup>the Father of lights <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-ESV-30267AB" title="See cross-reference AB">AB</a>)"></sup>with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.</span><span class="text Jas-1-18" id="en-ESV-30268">Of his own will he <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-ESV-30268AD" title="See cross-reference AD">AD</a>)"></sup>brought us forth by the word of truth, <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-ESV-30268AE" title="See cross-reference AE">AE</a>)"></sup>that we should be a kind of <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-ESV-30268AF" title="See cross-reference AF">AF</a>)"></sup>firstfruits of his creatures. -James 1:16-18</span></em><br />
<em><span class="text Jas-1-18"></span></em><br />
<span class="text Jas-1-18">Ah, yes. As I write this I have a memory. I walked through the fattening barn, each cluster of pigs scattering as I go by their individual pen. At the end of the concrete slab, I lean over the railing and look down to the waterway full of manure. The sewage. Sometimes I would clean the barns by scraping the filth into this sewer- and finish my job quickly so that I could be the first to run into our one bathroom house, throw off my clothes, and draw a warm bath. </span><br />
<span class="text Jas-1-18"></span><br />
<span class="text Jas-1-18">Sewage. Its not so bad when you know the bath is coming. Its not so bad when your heart is full. </span>Wendihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786388400106792698noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4563514187002125681.post-10543074461146868952014-03-14T22:42:00.000-05:002014-03-14T22:42:04.670-05:00Pop QuizLast night as I blogged, I was baking banana bread. Turns out, I was too tired to attempt such a thing.. the recipe was for two loaves and I put everything on one pan. It ran out of the pan on onto my already filthy oven floor. <br />
<br />
My oven's self cleaning feature no longer works. Neither does "broil". <br />
<br />
No banana bread, either. <br />
<br />
Believe me, there is plenty to get depressed about in my house- can you relate? My washer washes with only hot water. There are clothes everywhere. The toilet paper rolls always seem to be empty. My shower has not been cleaned in months.<br />
<br />
Maybe I can't rationally compare my life with the Israelites, who after wandering around in a desert their whole life, were getting ready to enter a land of enemy giants, but there are things that tempt me to throw a pity party. God prepared them by giving them a choice ahead of time- a pop quiz you might say.<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: cyan;"><sup><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></sup><em>I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live... (Deuteronomy 30:20)</em></span><br />
<em></em><br />
He gave his people a quiz with an obvious answer, then he gave them the answer to they should choose while still making it a choice. <br />
<br />
<em><span style="background-color: cyan; color: black;">The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, To turn one away from the snares of death. (Proverbs 14:27)</span></em><br />
<em></em><br />
We choose life by having the fear or reverence of the Lord (and His word).<br />
<br />
<em> <span style="background-color: cyan;"> ...in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (1Thessalonians 5:18) </span></em><br />
<em></em><br />
And the Lord says to give thanks.<br />
<em></em><br />
Life is growth, life is purpose, in Deuteronomy, life is analogy for blessing.<br />
<br />
<em><span style="background-color: cyan;">Do all things without grumbling or questioning.. (Philippians 2:14)</span></em><br />
<em><span style="background-color: cyan;"></span></em><br />
<em><span style="background-color: cyan;"></span></em><br />
<em><span style="background-color: cyan;"></span></em><br />
<em><span style="background-color: cyan;">Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. ( Ephesians 4:29)</span></em><br />
<em><span style="background-color: cyan;"></span></em><br />
<em></em><br />
Today was a day of just being. Good things happened, frustrating things happened. I had a choice: grumble or give thanks. <br />
<br />
Life or death. Blessing or cursing. <em>(choose life)</em><br />
<br />
Today was good friends, good weather, and the park.<br />
Lots of hugs, playing with the neighbor who only comes out occasionally.<br />
Brooke helping me clean the oven with bubbling baking soda and vinegar, saying, "I never knew cleaning could be this much fun!"<br />
Learning patterns with Legos. <br />
<br />
Goodnight hugs, goodnight prayers, goodnight drinks of water...<br />
<br />
And a super spiritual moment after prayers when I blessed Max:<br />
<br />
"Max, God gave you a purpose and you are strong and brave..."<br />
"Mom? While you were praying I was scratching my butt." <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: cyan;"></span>Wendihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786388400106792698noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4563514187002125681.post-87227876617511998232014-03-14T00:13:00.000-05:002014-03-14T00:13:11.041-05:00Encouraged(From biblegateway.com)<br />
<br />
<div class="heading passage-class-0">
<h3>
<em>1 Samuel 30:3-8</em></h3>
<div class="txt-sm">
<em>New King James Version (NKJV)</em></div>
</div>
<div class="passage version-NKJV result-text-style-normal text-html ">
<em><span class="text 1Sam-30-3" id="en-NKJV-7982"><sup class="versenum">3 </sup>So David and his men came to the city, and there it was, burned with fire; and their wives, their sons, and their daughters had been taken captive. </span> <span class="text 1Sam-30-4" id="en-NKJV-7983"><sup class="versenum">4 </sup>Then David and the people who were with him lifted up their voices and wept, until they had no more power to weep. </span> <span class="text 1Sam-30-5" id="en-NKJV-7984"><sup class="versenum">5 </sup>And David’s two wives, Ahinoam the Jezreelitess, and Abigail the widow of Nabal the Carmelite, had been taken captive. </span> <span class="text 1Sam-30-6" id="en-NKJV-7985"><sup class="versenum">6 </sup>Now David was greatly distressed, for the people spoke of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and his daughters.<strong> But David strengthened himself in the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> his God.</strong></span></em><br />
<em><span class="text 1Sam-30-7" id="en-NKJV-7986"><sup class="versenum">7 </sup>Then David said to Abiathar the priest, Ahimelech’s son, “Please bring the ephod here to me.” And Abiathar brought the ephod to David. </span> <span class="text 1Sam-30-8" id="en-NKJV-7987"><sup class="versenum">8 </sup>So David inquired of the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>, saying, “Shall I pursue this troop? Shall I overtake them?”</span></em><br />
<span class="text 1Sam-30-8"><em>And He answered him, “Pursue, for you shall surely overtake them and without fail recover all.”</em></span><br />
<br />
God is good. There is always hope. So please, if you are in despair, strengthen yourself in the Lord, because I'm almost certain your problem isn't as bad as having your city burned with fire and your family taken from you and four hundred men planning to stone you out of sorrow. <br />
<span class="text 1Sam-30-8"></span><br />
Thanksgiving, guarding against fear and worry, and a whole lot of prayer strengthened me today. <br />
<br />
Max looked at me last night and said, "Mom, we are now going to go to bed so we can get up, watch Buck Denver, and then go running in the park."<br />
<br />
So that's what we did. How blessed am I? I could join the retired people that can go to the park mid-morning for a walk or run or fishing. To run side by side with my four children, Max in step with me. And when we walked back, he grabbed my hand and held it all the way to the car. <br />
<br />
We stopped to examine a hollow log. "Maybe someone slept there last night." I imagined. <br />
<br />
"A baby bear!" Summer joked.<br />
<br />
Max said matter-of-factly, "no, a baby skunk."<br />
<br />
"I don't smell skunk"<br />
<br />
"Well, it's probably a nice baby skunk."<br />
<br />
A nap.<br />
Italian basil chicken and asparagus.<br />
Art night.<br />
Pippi Longstocking Plays Tag with the Police.<br />
Handel.<br />
Banana bread with Brooke.<br />
A peaceful heart.<br />
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<br />
Circumstances will change, and hope will pave the way.<br />
<br />
<div class="heading passage-class-0">
<h3>
<em>Romans 5:5</em></h3>
<div class="txt-sm">
<em>New King James Version (NKJV)</em></div>
</div>
<div class="passage version-NKJV result-text-style-normal text-html ">
<span class="text Rom-5-5" id="en-NKJV-28053"><em><sup class="versenum">5 </sup>Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.</em></span><br />
<span class="text Rom-5-5"><em></em></span><br />
<span class="text Rom-5-5"><em></em></span> </div>
</div>
Wendihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786388400106792698noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4563514187002125681.post-65252420001387267342014-03-12T23:01:00.001-05:002014-03-12T23:01:27.591-05:00Grrr.I'm forcing myself to do this. Here is what I'm thankful for:<br />
<br />
1. Health insurance.<br />
2. Income.<br />
3. The park. <br />
4. Mom to Mom's Group. <br />
5. My Mom. <br />
6. That I can choose to be thankful.<br />
7. That this too shall pass. <br />
<br />
I will not complain, just keeping it real... None the less, God is good. <br />
<br />
(From biblegateway.com)<br />
<br />
<div class="heading passage-class-0">
<h3>
Ephesians 1:15-21</h3>
<div class="txt-sm">
New King James Version (NKJV)</div>
</div>
<div class="passage version-NKJV result-text-style-normal text-html ">
<h3>
<span class="text Eph-1-15" id="en-NKJV-29222">Prayer for Spiritual Wisdom</span></h3>
<span class="text Eph-1-15"><sup class="versenum">15 </sup>Therefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, </span> <span class="text Eph-1-16" id="en-NKJV-29223"><sup class="versenum">16 </sup>do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers: </span> <span class="text Eph-1-17" id="en-NKJV-29224"><sup class="versenum">17 </sup>that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, </span> <span class="text Eph-1-18" id="en-NKJV-29225"><sup class="versenum">18 </sup>the eyes of your understanding<sup class="footnote" value="[<a href="#fen-NKJV-29225a" title="See footnote a">a</a>]">[<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+1:15-21&version=NKJV#fen-NKJV-29225a" title="See footnote a">a</a>]</sup> being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, </span> <span class="text Eph-1-19" id="en-NKJV-29226"><sup class="versenum">19 </sup><strong>and what <i>is</i> the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe</strong>, according to the working of His mighty power </span> <span class="text Eph-1-20" id="en-NKJV-29227"><sup class="versenum">20 </sup>which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated <i>Him</i> at His right hand in the heavenly <i>places,</i> </span> <span class="text Eph-1-21" id="en-NKJV-29228"><sup class="versenum">21 </sup>far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come.</span></div>
Wendihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786388400106792698noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4563514187002125681.post-18547492485348354952014-03-11T23:31:00.000-05:002014-03-11T23:31:40.768-05:00Counting the Joy. All of it.Yeah, this is predictable. I publically announce the elimination of fear and worry and crisis strikes. <br />
<br />
There they were, fear crouched behind the chair and worry lurking in the corners of the kitchen, reminding me that I'm not out of the woods yet. They were aware it would be difficult to overtake me but they annoyingly made their presence known. <br />
<br />
I found myself grumpy at times. I was irritable. No, this just won't do. No matter what happens to my bank account, it is no excuse for a grumpy mama. It is no excuse for ruining an otherwise lovely day. <br />
<br />
James says, <em>"Count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing." (James 1:2-4)</em><br />
<em></em><br />
So what I had to be most thankful for today was each day before that I got up and faced this same trial, lasting over a year now, that was used to get a little closer to perfecting patience. Because today, I must say that I handled this crisis. I put on that armor and fought like mad, which I could only do because of the perfecting of patience, and every single verse I have clung to this past year. <br />
<br />
This was a test. I knew that. I also knew that if I had not experienced progress in perfecting, all my tears this past year would have been in vain. I'm a little smarter than I was a year ago- a little braver, a little more confident- because I know my God a little better. <br />
<br />
I used to grab my Bible and flip through it like mad to get some comfort, but now, though it is still fun to read, I have the knowledge <em>inside</em> of me. Perfecting patience. The sword of the spirit. The shield of faith. <br />
<br />
I began to get excited, wondering how God would remedy this crisis. Would it turn out to be no big thing or would it be a miraculous intervention? I'll know tomorrow. But today, I know that my Redeemer lives. <br />
<br />
In the past, a crisis caused such a struggle that I was lucky to get the basics done. Now I have perfecting patience, a fast from fear and worry, and an assignment to give thanks always. <br />
<br />
The kids got more fresh air, excitement for spring is building. Max keeps asking, "Is it spring yet? I think it is. There is no more cold. Maybe it can be winter with no more cold." I love the way he processes his thoughts in words. <br />
<br />
Even though we are reading <em>Pippi Longstocking</em> at night, I have my own Pippi, who was helping in the kitchen this evening: <br />
<br />
"Mom, I sucked on that bone so long I think I ate the whole thing." <br />
<br />
She's my puppy, so I respond, "Honey, you know you're not a real dog."<br />
<br />
"Yeah, well, I like bones. Except for the ones that taste like strawberries."<br />
<br />
"Strawberries?" I question her.<br />
<br />
"You wouldn't know. You've never ate a bone before like me."<br />
<br />
It was the kind of conversation that you know is mostly fiction, but she says it so darn seriously- until you call her a goofball. Then the giggles roll out. Joy, pure joy. <br />
<br />
I loved how seriously they took the job of washing the sliding door. Back and forth, inside and out, they examined each smudge and attacked it. They diligently worked for a good 20-30 minutes. Then Max moved on to another window until I told him that he had to stop. <br />
<br />
Each of my children have a night to stay up a little later than everyone else. Tuesday is Summer's night. They won't let you forget either... "What should we do tonight?" someone asks. <br />
<br />
"I don't know what you are doing, but <em>I'm</em> staying up."<br />
<br />
We did some math together (part of our routine). She giggled the entire time. She said it was the sugar she ate, but I knew it was the fact that it was Tuesday, and on Tuesday she stays up. This typically serene child was a goofy mess. We looked at animals on Pinterest and came up with captions. <br />
<br />
None of this joy would have happened without the perfecting of patience, the various trials of the past year. I would have otherwise been consumed with fear and worry. I count that as joy. <br />
<br />
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Wendihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786388400106792698noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4563514187002125681.post-8637790181245731002014-03-10T23:49:00.000-05:002014-03-10T23:52:14.781-05:00This Day.So, I'm told that if you say you are fasting something for lent, it is inappropriate to share that because fasting should be done in secret. <br />
<br />
Therefore, I may or may not be fasting fear and worry and replacing it with thanksgiving for lent. Either way, blogging about it keeps me somewhat accountable. It may or may not continue after Easter. <br />
<br />
I used to carry my camera around my neck like an accessory, but not so much now. I hope to regain that- maybe with the help of thanksgiving. Anyway, here we go:<br />
<br />
If you know much about me, you'll know that our family has come through some hard financial times lately, and I've been privileged enough to experience what it is like not really sure how we will eat. I'm not being sarcastic. I do count it as a privilege because now I can relate a little more to those in need. I'm also thankful to know that there is always hope for something better. <br />
<br />
Today, it was the most beautiful day I remember this year. We skipped most of our school to celebrate until nightfall. There is just something spring does to a weary soul. I am thankful for warm weather.<br />
<br />
I went grocery shopping for the first time in a while without mentally deducting each item from the bank account as I walked through the isles of the store. This is partly because I was able to do some extra work lately, so we have a little more padding in the budget, but also because I'm not allowed to fear. <br />
<br />
Except for one short time when I was unloading the groceries on this gorgeous day. I started counting up upcoming bills vs. upcoming paychecks. I started to worry. But then, I remembered that I wasn't supposed to do that. I'm so thankful that fear and worry are off limits. <br />
<br />
I have a fridge full of much healthier food than I've had in a while. That brings me joy. Provision adds so much life into our daily routine-- or is it that worry sucks so much life out? <br />
<br />
My children begged to play outside, they asked me to read to them, we laughed together, and we made lemonade. Max insisted on squeezing the lemons after Savannah deserted her post at the table to run outside a few more minutes before the sun set. He did pretty good. I thank God for these little people a hundred times a day.<br />
<br />
My Bible study, which tugged at my heart once again. My husband, who came home and teased the kids. My house, which apparently God doesn't want me to leave. He knows I've tried. <br />
<br />
This is going to be an amazing week. <br />
<br />
Here's an old photo: to the hope that the flowers will soon bloom, and fear and worry become a distant memory this <strike>lent </strike>spring.<br />
<br />
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Wendihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786388400106792698noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4563514187002125681.post-83345689068701779142014-02-11T23:33:00.000-06:002014-02-11T23:33:12.468-06:00For Messy LivesThe fish died today. Savannah took it upon herself to change the water and somehow he was dropped in the sink. After she placed him back in water, he fought it for a few hours. We cheered him on. Then, he died.<br />
<br />
A tablet was dropped and does not work. I am behind for the week in school. I had to change supper plans at the last minute because there was not enough time. I keep walking around the pile of laundry and suitcases waiting to be unpacked since a week and a half ago. <br />
<br />
I start a schedule one week, I forget it the next. I don't always pay my kids for their extra chores... and they often forget to do them. Well thought out ideas are too difficult to maintain. I should fix my tire, but who has time? <br />
<br />
And I think, "When will survival mode end?"<br />
<br />
When will it get easier? When will the kids stop fighting? When will I be able to put together more than one thought in a row? When can we all just get along? <br />
<br />
Messes get in the way of our plans. They make life difficult. We hate them.<br />
<br />
As I get further along in life, this is what I notice:<br />
<br />
Life is a mess- <em>that</em> is the normal state of life. Most everything is messy; relationships, circumstances, kitchen sinks, bank accounts, and politics. A lot of people think they have the perfect solution, only to end up making it messier. <br />
<br />
So what if we stopped seeing messes as a roadblock to our perfect plan but acknowledging that they are a very normal, everyday occurrence, and what if we didn't mind the messes so much but really valued- celebrated- the times when something goes <em>right</em>?<br />
<br />
Maybe then we would stop seeing the messes altogether. <br />
<br />
His name was King Lewis Pip Nebuchadnezzar because no one could agree on a name. We sang "Amazing Grace" with some intense vibratos, Savannah read a poem about his fish life- you know, eating, sleeping, and swimming, and we made a procession into the bathroom, kicking the dirty underwear aside as we marched. Brooke did the ceremonial toilet flush as we said our last good-byes.<br />
<br />
We had a good laugh. <br />
<br />
Maybe, when we choose contentment, God shows His goodness right through the messes. I tend to think that is exactly the way He likes it. <br />
<br />
Accept no shame for the mess. Be content, but strive for goodness and try to have a grand <br />
time while you're at it. Really, it's okay to have fun in the mess. The kids will thank you for it someday.<br />
<br />
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Wendihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786388400106792698noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4563514187002125681.post-43675149292923654742014-02-06T22:58:00.000-06:002014-02-06T22:58:42.984-06:00Right Here- On Snow DaysYesterday...<br />
<br />
It was a pajama type of day. <br />
<br />
Quite normal, really. Max insisted on obeying my command to color only if he could do it while sitting in a box. <br />
<br />
We only had one big spill when Brooke was running non-stop around the coffee table while listening to Homer. She knocked over her glass of lemonade. There was none left for a refill, and the towel used to dry remains on the table until now. <br />
<br />
Brooke did stop running- in fact, she froze. She watched liquid spreading across the surface of the table and eventually spilling on the floor. Summer began to yell questions like, "What were you thinking?". Savannah stared at her tablet. Mom suggests that it might be a nice idea to clean it up... in a sharp, snarky tone. <br />
<br />
<br />
It had snowed nearly a foot, so they thought it would be great to go play outside. It took about 15 minutes for everyone to put on their boots, yell, "Mom! where is my snowsuit?", for me to walk over and point to it four feet from their feet where they left it yesterday, take off their boots (because you can't put on a snowsuit with your boots already on), for me to ask them why they think it is a good idea to go play in a foot of snow without bothering to put socks on, find socks, argue over if it is really that important that they match, and fully get dressed....<br />
<br />
They played for five minutes until they decided it was too cold. Came in, undressed....<br />
<br />
Summer asked, "Savannah, are you ready to play with me?"<br />
<br />
"I need to thaw for a minute." <br />
<br />
"I didn't realize you were poultry."<br />
<br />
??????<br />
<br />
Max built a spaceship. He was very proud of it, and said he'd painted it. It was blue, red, brown, and gray. I asked what he would do in space and he replied, "I'm cleaning the planets". <br />
<br />
Then he boarded his pirate ship. He said he might get scared (whispering) if he finds the gorillas.<br />
<br />
Final mission: find some couch pillows. Couch pillows are used for almost anything around here, so who knows where you will find them. He wants one. Brooke gives him one even though she had a very important use for them. One is on my bed. He runs down to get it. Brooke takes back the one she gave because he'd said he only needed one. But really he wanted both. She gives it back. Max carefully places both pillows on the couch, neatly lays a throw on as well, climbs in and sighs, "Mom, now I am going to be a daddy."<br />
<br />
In their perpetual fantasy they live in, Summer sliped Savannah a small note that says, "You're guilty!". <br />
<br />
Savannah did not want anyone else to see the note, so she ate it. Yes, really. <br />
<br />
Bedtime came only after rehearsing handstands by the girls and Max, his bed summersaults. He stands at the foot of the bed, hands up in perfect form, and takes off round and round until he stops and laughs waaay too loud. <br />
<br />
After "one last drink" three times and "one last hug" five times and I wait five minutes just to make sure no more "emergencies" come up, I sit and relax. I love that time of day. I survey the damages left for me to clean and soak in the memories of the places we went; the time travel, the space exploration, the elaborate artwork created, and the mythical creatures we conquered. All right here. <br />
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Wendihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786388400106792698noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4563514187002125681.post-82529735555726970612013-12-19T22:44:00.001-06:002013-12-19T22:44:50.207-06:00Child Qualities We Should Take Advantage Of #4They are easily excitable.<br />
<br />
True story. We can't buy presents this year. Now, before you start feeling sorry for my children, don't worry. They will get presents, but not from me. I've done my best to make this a memorable time for them. I simply cannot spend a whole lot of money. So something came up today and I needed them occupied. They wanted a movie. A new movie. I start to sweat. I wanted to give it to them, but I started thinking about my bank account and adding up the bills that were still due. I tried to entice them with cheap online rentals, but nothing seemed worthy of $2.99 or less. <br />
<br />
So finally, I gave in. I said, "What the heck. You guys know I can't give you presents this year, but I will buy the movie you really want. Will you accept this as your Christmas present?"<br />
<br />
You would have thought we were going to Disneyland. <br />
"This is the best day of my life!" one exclaimed. <br />
<br />
Do you know how many best days of their lives we've had? In Savannah's exaggerative spirit, about a million. At least a whole lot. <br />
<br />
And we've never been to Disneyland. <br />
<br />
Take joy in small things. Value things by what gives them joy, not by price. Know that above all, they want experiences- with you. Follow through with promises- don't discourage the excitement. Movies are great when used in moderation. Avoid excess. Learn things together. Get excited about nature. Celebrate personal victories. Visit local attractions. Get to know interesting people along with your kids. Read together. Read some more. Scroll through Pinterest together. Dream together. Pray together. Never, ever feel guilty for not giving them more stuff. Give when you can, but have peace when you can't. Children are cool like that. <br />
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<br />Wendihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786388400106792698noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4563514187002125681.post-68215589194659981092013-12-16T14:27:00.000-06:002013-12-16T14:27:16.741-06:00Child Qualities We Should Take Advantage Of #3Optimism.<br />
<br />
I am terribly guilty of looking at circumstances and forecasting doom. I speak hope, but my heart faints. This past year, every day has been a battle for me to get to the place that I can smile with ease- for my children's sake. If they start to lose their optimism, woe is me. Countless times their innocence has saved me. <br />
<br />
They ask if we can go out to eat, we say we can't afford it.<br />
They ask if we can buy such and such, we say there is not enough money.<br />
They ask if we can go stay in a hotel, we say when Daddy gets a better job.<br />
They ask when we can go to Hawaii, or Iceland, or Australia, or Laos, we say... uh, someday, I'm sure. <br />
<br />
Oh, but their optimism is priceless. <br />
<br />
Brooke offered to contribute her collection of pennies.<br />
Savannah and Summer are on the search to find something they could sell.<br />
Max told me he could buy more money for us. He also said that when he is big like Daddy he would go to work and buy me Pepsi. <br />
<br />
Last week was bad. Really bad. I was pretty low when Brooke said, "My sisters and I think this has been the week of funniness." in the middle of her cartwheel. I thought, "humor might do me some good too." <br />
<br />
Savannah told me that God told her that her and her sisters would be cartoon artists someday. I am certain that this is possible, for they are creative and determined. It is not my position to question that. They spend their days scripting and playing with their stuffed animals, developing characters, and decorating their room according to the appropriate scenes, all because they don't doubt their dream. Even if it doesn't turn out as they imagine, the skills they are developing are more than I could teach them with any book. <br />
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Go for it. Shoot for the moon. Renew your hope. Trust in God. Be careful in what you discourage. Find the beauty in what they do, there is always something praiseworthy. Find ways for them to develop their dreams. If something doesn't work out right away, encourage practice and perseverance. Join them. Let them see you step out of the box. No matter what, fight discouragement and depression with all of your strength. It has no place in the presence of children. <br />
<br />
If you want to see my other posts in this series, click on the links below:<br />
<a href="http://wendishopscotch.blogspot.com/2013/12/child-qualities-we-should-take.html" target="_blank">Quality #1</a><br />
<a href="http://wendishopscotch.blogspot.com/2013/12/child-qualities-we-should-take_11.html" target="_blank">Quality #2</a><br />
<br />
And a special treat: The internet premiere of "Porkupine" from "Porkupine's Lessons"<br />
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Wendihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786388400106792698noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4563514187002125681.post-68644254052070987342013-12-11T00:51:00.001-06:002013-12-11T00:51:13.145-06:00Child Qualities We Should Take Advantage Of #2Truth: Having children has done so much for me. Mostly it has made me more human. No child should ever be disregarded as insignificant. They are significant because they are children, and children possess qualities that make each and every individual one greatly significant. If you want to read my<a href="http://wendishopscotch.blogspot.com/2013/12/child-qualities-we-should-take.html" target="_blank"> Quality #1: They love us, you can find it here.</a><br />
<br />
#2: Children are great at failing.<br />
<br />
The younger, the better. They fail all the time. When they learn to eat, walk, talk, write, you name it. They are constantly failing, and unless someone convinces them that they should be ashamed, they aren't.<br />
<br />
A few months ago, Brooke came to me and explained that when she draws something, its okay to mess up because she can always make it into something else. So when it was time to make a poster for Trunks of Treats, the theme being scary scene with spider webs and such, she ended up with a submarine in the middle of it. <br />
<br />
This caused instant outrage from her sisters. They were convinced she deliberately ruined their artwork. In tears, she came to me and said, "I was trying to paint a spider, but it didn't work so I made it into a submarine!"<br />
<br />
Seriously. Who can't love that rationale? Well, at least this mother does. Not so much her sisters. Anyway, we got over it and she has not stopped drawing and painting. <br />
<br />
And I hope she doesn't. I am scared to think of what my fear of failure has discouraged. <br />
<br />
Cheerlead. Encourage. Defend if needed. For goodness sakes, don't be perfect. Fail with them. Teach them about the great people who failed. Praise them for learning something when they've failed. Give them grace, be patient, not critical. Teach them to laugh at themselves but don't push it to humiliation. Correct them without insult. Problem solve with them. Celebrate successes, no matter how small. Let them be good failures.<br />
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Wendihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786388400106792698noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4563514187002125681.post-10869271459395232262013-12-09T22:30:00.000-06:002013-12-09T22:30:09.356-06:00Child Qualities We Should Take Advantage Of #1So simple, yet so overlooked. Probably because I'm too tired for twenty hugs a night and too frazzled for one more "helper" to make bread and so ready for them to learn to be independent. I've realized there are such qualities in young children that we wish we would have never unlearned, so it may be a benefit for them if I encourage it as long as possible.<br />
<br />
I have not written a lot lately, partly because I don't have time, partly because I lost some desire. This, however, I think may be worthy of writing if for no other reason than for my own contemplation. I think I'll just take one at a time.<br />
<br />
<br />
#1 They love us.<br />
<br />
Even the ones that have not been treated so well, they love their parents in a way that will baffle those looking from the outside. Kids love their parents when they are young. That is a good thing. Lets let them love us.<br />
<br />
Enjoy their gifts. Take their nagging for you to play a game with them as a compliment. Give them words of wisdom, they may listen better now than later. Make time with them a priority, they will be happier people. Tell them jokes. When everyone falls apart at once, fix it with hugs- or couch cuddles- maybe with a movie and popcorn.<br />
<br />
Let loose. They think your jokes are funny, they think our nuances are necessary. They expect their daddy to come home and jump out from behind the door every night. They await my comic relief in the middle of an intense lesson. They anticipate a twirl hug after a time out.<br />
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Teach them what it looks like to love... to obey, to help out, to talk to them with respect. Teach them that we still get irritated with each other, but our love doesn't fade. They will get disciplined right along with unconditional love. <br />
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And take comfort, because they do love us. But beware, because they won't be children forever.<br />
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Wendihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786388400106792698noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4563514187002125681.post-9078298263288575362013-11-19T22:28:00.000-06:002013-11-19T22:28:16.019-06:00FallGet outside. <br />
<br />
Breathe in fresh air, find a place for the kids to climb, find another lonely mom to talk to, and take in the remarkable beauty of nature.<br />
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Gather acorns. Take them home to paint. "Feed" the geese with dried up leaves. See who can swing the highest. Laugh at their silly jokes.<br />
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Walk away from the news.</div>
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Look at the small things like the veins in leaves.</div>
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Refrain from being overly protective. Let them have fun.</div>
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Don't worry if someone overhears them and thinks they are weird.</div>
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Let them make a few messes. <br />
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Messes are easier to clean when they are happy. Be thankful. Be happy.<br />
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Allow yourself to enjoy life. Teach them to enjoy it, too.<br />
Wendihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786388400106792698noreply@blogger.com0