Lenten Rant...

I was just thinking that my practice of Lent is going to be very different from what some people think of...okay, most people.

I'm not giving up anything for starters. And...while I'm there...I'm getting a little frustrated reading about people giving up things and calling it fasting. Fasting is giving up food...or sustenance. What these people are actually doing is called abstaining.

I'm not thinking that temporary behavior modification is necessarily the direction I want to go...with giving things up. I'm more interested in personal spiritual reform...changing something...maybe actually doing what I should do even if it causes me discomfort because it's better for me in the long run.

Also, one of the points I was trying to make yesterday was that the practice of these important things...should go beyond the traditional celebratory time. Meditating on Jesus' sacrifice and resurrection should go beyond the 40 days of Lent.

I'd also like to point out that NOTHING you could give up for 40 days (or forever) would even come close to Jesus' SACRIFICE for our SINS! That's where some of my Catholic friends kind of irk me. You're giving up Ranch Doritos, huh? Seriously?? You love Ranch Doritos so much that you consider it a sacrifice, that you'll need to rely on God to get you through for the next 40 days? Maybe that's why I've not even investigated Lent before. So many people are just making it a mockery and missing the whole point anyway.

I guess it kind of comes down to two things...that you should really be checking all the time...

HONESTY--God, how are things between us?

BALANCE--not attempting to work my way to heaven, and not copping out on doing the good works He's prepared ahead of time for me to do. It's like my anniversary...a time where I get to focus my attentions, devotion, reflect on our past and future, and communicate my feelings to my Loverbrains. God created a relationship with Him...and after man screwed it all up...he restored it through the death of His son, Jesus...

"Lent should be a period of preparation that includes reflection and penance." Okay, I just wrote that and now I'm thinking...the time restriction is a problem. I love some of what I've read about people feeling tempted to eat/do what they'd given up for Lent so use those times to pick up their Bible, read it and pray. Um...hmmmm? Shouldn't I always be putting God's Word first...above anything else....EVERYDAY? I mean, after Lent when you can eat Doritos and drink Diet Coke...and read Fiction...whatever...afterwards...will you still be reading God's Word and praying?

Don't justify giving up something because you need to draw you closer to God because said item X was between you and God. If there is something between you and God...get it right...REPENT...and give it up for EVER...not for ty days!

Sorry for the rant...but I felt I needed to clarify some stuffs...

WFW: Light Prayer Hook

I few years ago my Loverbrains and I heard about prayer hooks. You know, something to hang your prayers on...a reminder. We use on ramps and off ramps to hang our prayers for travelling mercies and blessed visits. We use the street where our church is located to hang our prayers for that day's services, our pastor, the teachers. I use my husband's socks (the thing I dread most to fold) as a hook to stick up my prayers for him and his day. I love this idea...and it really really helps me.

So, I also have scripture hooks. I'll bet you can guess what they are...yup, places or things that help me remember scriptures. When I replace light bulbs...I think of John 8:12 (or 9:5 or 1:9). I'm a bit of nerd about this too. I wear Sweet Honesty perfume...cuz it reminds me of...
"Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ." Eph. 4:15 I find I do it with names too...like Joy...I think of Nehemiah 8..."the joy of the Lord is my strength." Yes, I think of it to the tune of children's song. Songs can be great scripture hooks!

I could go on and on...but if you've never tried out prayer or scripture hooks...I'd encourage you to give it a go...We've been so blessed...

If you'd like to join WFW...go to Lori's where it's about all you have to give.

Caffeinated Randomness: Rise and Shine!!!

I've had one of those weeks where I've hit the ground running each and every morning. It's partially a case of "be careful what you pray for" cuz I prayed that I'd be able to get up when my alarm went off at 5...so I'd have time to spend alone with God in prayer. You know, and NOT hit the snooze forty million times.

So, God indeed helped me...and I was either wide awake annoyingly so BEFORE the alarm went off. Just to make sure, in case that wasn't enough...my chipper children have decided that 5:30 is a good waking time. I think they hear the shower turn on when my Loverbrains gets up...just guessing.

So, in my attempts to be gentle and teach my children and not scream and get really angry early in the morning...I implemented a "songtime wakeup call." We love Patch the Pirate...and got a bunch of CDs for Christmas...one song is called...RISE AND SHINE...and starts with a bugle call. I told them they could not get up until they heard the music. Loverbrains pointed out that it is sort of funny that the song is about getting kids up who want to sleep in...not keeping kids down that want to get up.

Oh well...some day... Regardless...I'm up and running EARLY...and haven't missed my prayer time once. SNort...hahaha! Since my day really starts so early...I've gotten a whole lot done this week too! When life is getting me down...sometimes I think God gives me lots to do to get my mind off of myself.

Caffeinated Randomness: Contentment!?

To know that nothing hurts the godly, is a matter of comfort; but to be assured that all things which fall out shall co-operate for their good, that their crosses shall be turned into blessings, that showers of affliction water the withering root of their grace and make it flourish more; this may fill their hearts with joy till they run over. —Thomas Watson

In my random little way I will attempt to express my thoughts on contentment. I know *gasp*...don't say that word! In fact, our Ladies Bible Study at church was considering a study on contentment and I totally freaked..."No way, Lord...I know what kind of testing that means..." How ridiculous...to say you want to learn and grow...and then flat out run from something that could teach great lessons. Although the LBS didn't go with that study...it seems God has many lessons to teach me in that area.

First off, many of you know my love of a truly Frugal Friday...and my felt need to redefine what frugal means. I've defined it as something like practising economy; living without waste; thrifty. But what I've recently discovered is that God calls me to more than simple frugality or thrift. He wants me to be content. For me that means...not getting what I don't need, no matter what the percent off...resting in what he has already blessed me with and using it (time, energy, etc) for His glory...

That leads me to contentment within relationships...specifically marriage. In combination with some dear ones praying for me, my studying respect, and resolving to be a better listener...my Loverbrains has shared his work stresses and leaned on me more heavily than ever before. I am not complaining at all...in fact, I'm praising God that I can view it this way...and by His Grace have been able to stand up under it...with strength and stamina that couldn't come from my own devices! This current stress has led me to contentment with how he does his job (with all his heart) and the time that it takes away from us. I'm telling ya...that could ONLY come from God! I've struggled with it and intense anger for years. Praise God...that although the lessons are painful that I'm actually learning something.

Last, on a slightly lighter note....I apologize for this being such a serious CR Friday...I'm learning some contentment in parenting. I'm not becoming a wishy-washy, flexible parent...don't worry...as far as discipline goes...that calls for firm consistency. I am saying that I'm realizing that it is OKAY to slow down and play with my kids...even if some of my TO DO list doesn't get done. It's OKAY if they make a huge mess...cuz they'll then have an opportunity to learn to clean it up. It's OKAY that I'm not SuperMomE...and don't take my kids to every educational activity and don't have a no TV household. I'm me...striving by God's Grace...to be the best MomE I can be...and wife...

Be careful what you pray for...but also what you are afraid to ask God for...Contentment is something that must be learned and is worth it!

Phil. 4:11, "Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am."

CR: Random Refined Skin...

Happy Birthday...to the most funnest decaf chick ever...Andrea! Hope your day has just a teeny bit of caffeine fun...maybe in the form of chocolate!! Smiles!

Speaking of age...I noticed the years marching across my face...little wrinkles by my eyes. Nuts...I smile too much! HAHAHA! Anyhew, I bought this new foundation...Age Refining! Oooo...Ahhhh...

So, I asked my sweet Loverbrains what he thought about my new foundation. His face was blank at first. I told him it was age refining and asked if I looked younger. By now...warning lights were flashing behind his eyes...he knew he was on dangerous ground...so being the witty man I love he said....

"Sure hon, you look like... FIVE years old! *Smirk*"

*Laughter and guffaws* Oh, I love my man!!

Tube Tuesday: Star Wars (John Williams is the Man)

Today's TT is not my normal serious meditative choice. This just shows my love of variety! My Loverbrains is a real Star Wars lover...so this is for him.

If you want to join me for Tube Tuesday please link up below. Just remember...please make your videos family friendly...something your mother could watch. I said could and not would...cuz well, my Mom doesn't really like Star Wars...but she COULD watch this...it's clean and neither of us would be embarrassed watching it together. Oh, you get the picture!



[Close Encounters of the Droid Kind]
You must use the force (repeat ad nauseum)

[Raiders of the Lost Wookiee]
Long time ago, far far away (repeat)

Kiss a wookie, kick a droid
Fly the falcon through an asteroid
Till the princess is annoyed
This is spaceships, it's monsters, it's Star Wars, we love it!

Come and help me, Obi-Wan
X-wing fighter and a blaster gun
Dance with Ewoks, oh what fun!
This is spaceships, it's monsters, it's Star Wars, we love it!

[Super Han]
Get in there you big, furry oaf
I couldn't care less what you smell
I take orders from only me
Maybe you'd like it back in your cell
Your Highness, your worshipfulness, your highness, your worshipfulness

No one cares if you upset a droid
(nobody cares if you upset a droid)
That's because droids don't tear your arms out of socket.
(nobody cares)
I suggest a new strategy: let the Wookie win
That's because nobody cares if you upset a droid.

[ET the DiscoTerrestrial]
Now we listen to Luke whining:
One more season... One more season... One more season... One more season...

I was gonna go to Tosche Station for power converters
Now I guess I'm going nowhere.
It just isn't fair.

[Jaws: the Wookiee]
Woooooookiee (repeat)

Someone move this walking carpet (repeat)

Kiss your brother, Kiss your brother (repeat)

Princess Leia
Well I guess you don't know anything about women.

Who's your daddy? (repeat)

[Jurassic Darth]
Luke, I'm your father
(That's not true!)
It is useless to resist
(My hand!)
Come with me my son, We will rule
(I'll never join you!)
Search your feelings it is true

So you have a twin sister
Who Obi-Wan was wise to hide
(Is that Leia?)
If you will not turn
Then perhaps she will
Give in to your hate
You are mine

Long Long Long Time ago... Far Far Far Far Away

Long Long Long Time Ago, Far Far Far Away (repeat)

Kiss a wookie
Kick a droid
Fly the falcon
Through an asteroid
Till the princess is annoyed
(She's annoyed!)
This is spaceships, it's monsters, it's Star Wars, we love it, it's true

Episode 3
Coming to you
In 2005

So Let's go
(go go go to the movies)
Stand in line
(buy buy buy me some popcorn)
Cause it's al-
(please I'd like extra butter)
most the time
(Join the dark side...)
May the Force be with you all

John Williams is the man

New Family Members...er, yeah...

Yes, we now have four little pets in our house. Using our Christmas money we bought four Anolis (AH-NO-LEES) and all their accoutrements. We got two males and two females...named...are you ready...Guacamole, Can-ole, Frijole, and Holy Mole!
The most excitement came the day they arrived...when I discovered that the lid we had for the tank had holes that were a bit too big...meaning...they could come right out and go up to the lamp. I figure they saw it as the greater light and had been thinking about it...then all of the sudden...ZOOP up they came.

Only one truly escaped...the others I bumped back into the tank. I got saran wrap and enclosed the lid...called Loverbrains and left a hilarious message...something like, "AHHHH, they're getting out. Come home NOW!!!! AHHHH!!! *little emmy screaming in the background, Duh leezards are out...ahhhh!*" I also called our friends who have these...where we got this crazy idea for hypoallergenic pets! They had unexpected Christmas cheer...and were grateful for a good laugh! I did capture the escapee in the deli container they came in...and she was quite unhappy for the rest of the day. Good grief!! Merry Christmas!!!

Grow old along with me...

...the best is yet to be.

Merry Christmas and Happy Anniversary to my sweet Loverbrains!

Since Barbara and her beloved share an anniversary with us...I'm going to take her lead and list something wonderful for each of our years together. I have it much easier than her...she had to come up with 30....hehehe! Here it goes...

1. He's a patient and humble man...with me, with others, with our kids. In that way, he leads me by example...to treat others as I should. I need to spend more time watching his approach. I feel this attitude and way of dealing with others and issues comes from his intense study of God's Word...and his desire to be a man after God's own heart.

2. He's a wonderful Father. Turns out he's the better disciplinarian between us...because he can remain emotionless...which comes in really handy when a two year old does the same awful thing repeatedly. I learn a lot from him in the remaining calm and FIRM...I get wimpy and feel sorry for them...but he is wise and knows we must teach them to obey.

3. He's a great griller, garbage taker outer, and lawn mower! All jobs that I don't like or want to do...he does gladly and well! Yeah!!! He even fills my bird feeders...and has joined in my birder activities. We spotted a red-headed woodpecker together just yesterday!

4. He's warm blooded. I mean that figuratively and literally. I'm always cold and he's nice to let me put my cold hands and feet on him and snuggle me close. He also makes me feel beautiful and desired after two babies and body changes!

5. He's got a hilarious, dry sense of humor. Usually, it's based off nerdy math or political topics...but watching the news with him can give me a lift...depending on what he says in response to the screen! He helps me smile at the end of the day!!

6. He talks things through with me. No matter how frustrated or angry...he continues to talk and work with me on our difficult issues. Yup, we have them...and haven't figured it all out yet. Maybe when I've reached 30 years...Barbara?? *Smile*

Awww! A whole stable of cute animals...

Don't you just love her expression..."come on Mom, are we done yet or what?"
Loverbrains was Joseph...and he had his lines memorized and did a fabulous job. This is the only picture I could get...because I was sitting in the choir loft during his actual speaking part!

For the adorable videos...focused for the Grandparent viewership (meaning I zoomed in on my kid)...go to my other blog...MomE & Loving It!!

Caffeinated Randomness: If you've never seen it...you must...you must!!!

My FAVORITE Christmas movie of all time is White Christmas. I love love love it! Every year I say I'm going to buy it...but I don't...cuz it's on TV...and then I get all bent out of shape because they chop it all up to make it fit the time slot. Loverbrains then hunts about for me until he finds the one time they air it as the full version (cuz he's wonderful like that)...and we watch the WHOLE thing! I love all the songs and dance numbers. I love the story too!

One of my favorite childhood memories is of my Dad laughing hysterically over this "Sisters" number that Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye mimic! We couldn't tell if we were having more fun laughing at them or him!

I sing this song, "Count Your Blessings (Instead of Sheep)" to my Sweet Boobah boy when he's sick (which has been often in his little life)...and it's sort of his lullaby!

This is one of those songs they always chop out of the TV edited versions. AHHHH...it's one of my FAVORITES! I love the mustard colored dress on Vera-Ellen...so modest and gorgeous!!

I love this sexy crooning number by Rosemary Clooney...AH...what a great movie. It has two of the best crooners of all time in it. Aren't Bing's eyes the clearest blue you've ever seen!? And her dress...wooowooo!

Shine...don't be Scroogie!

"Oh! But he was a tight-fisted hand at the grind-
stone, Scrooge! a squeezing, wrenching, grasping,
scraping, clutching, covetous, old sinner! Hard and
sharp as flint, from which no steel had ever struck out
generous fire; secret, and self-contained, and solitary
as an oyster. The cold within him froze his old features,
nipped his pointed nose, shrivelled his cheek,
stiffened his gait; made his eyes red, his thin lips blue;
and spoke out shrewdly in his grating voice."

A Christmas Carol: Stave 1, Marley's Ghost

I'd love to say that I thought Christmas brings out the best in everyone...but...there seem to be more bleak spots than bright this season so far. No matter how hard I try I always end up over scheduled...often faking the cheerful spirit...often grouching at those I love most. I'd love to say that celebrating advent has solved all my scroogie problems...but it hasn't.

So, should we all be like Polly Anna and "look for the good" in everyone? We could just ignore the bad...right? Well...first off...no one is good...we're all sinners...

Romans 3:23, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,"

...so looking for good might just run us into the ground. Not that there isn't any good...I mean today...for example...a nice lady got me a shopping cart and another nice guy put it away. (I must look like I have my hands full...shopping with two toddlers in the snow! HA!) AND...I'm grateful for their kindness...but the bigger issue isn't really how to deal with the nice people...the do gooders...it's those scrooges...oh...

For example, those grouchy postmasters who treat you like an idiot cuz you don't quickly hustle to the counter because you are trying to gather your packages and toddlers first...and repeats himself loudly to embarrass you in front of all the other patrons.

OR...those ladies in the checkout who glare at you when you break out your coupons...

OR...the drivers..."holiday shoppers"...insane people who didn't go to driving school...

OR...the people who hammer on you at church to do everything and anything cuz you're young and you have time...you don't work, right? Ugh...

I find myself praying that God would help me
...guide me
...at all costs
...to POINT TO CHRIST!

Philippians 2:14, "Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe."

That's my goal for this crazy season...
...no matter how scroogie the individual I encounter may be
...no matter how tired I might be
...even if it's my Loverbrains who should know better (haha)...

Focus on Christ...and maybe it will keep you from road rage, glaring back, or telling someone off this season...if so, I'm glad. Even more important though...share with others about Christ...the GIFT of Christmas...

Matthew 1:21, "She will bear a Son; and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.”

John 3:16, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

I'm struck by...Isaiah 9:6,
"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."

That is my God...who can surely help me with any awful scrooge out there...who can help me see scrooge with compassionate, Jesus like eyes...who can share the free gift of salvation with anyone...no matter how much they embarrass, anger, upset, or demean me...after all, they killed him!

Isaiah 53:7, "He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth."

Caffeinated Randomness: How Bizarre, how bizarre...

I'm happily caffeinated...and excited to be with all the caff, half caff and decaf gals again! Today we were instructed to share our most bizarre ornament(s). We're supposed to take pictures and 'splain why we possess these jewels in our collections!
I should start by saying that I LOVE all my Christmas stuff...especially our new Willowtree nativity...that's growing slowly each year.

This year we gained the shepherds, some sheep and the CAMEL. Seriously, that's bizarre...and in my humble opinion a marketing ploy to get you to buy the wise men.

And ya'll know...I have issues with the wise men being at my manger scene...I've already planned for them to be on the bookshelf across the room (which is a two to three year journey for all those interested, ha ha)...so I was going to leave the camel in the box...but my Loverbrains thought he was cute and felt bad for him...so now he's off to the side...I've decided he belongs to the innkeeper! How bizarre!?
Also bizarre is the use of many decorations from our wedding. We were married Dec. 21st ...almost six years ago. Yeah! I figure it's sort of odd to use things from one's wedding each year...but very cool too...right?!

Okay, I think my most bizarre ornament is this noodle angel. She's made of four types of pasta...bow tie (wings), penne (body), elbow mac (arms), and that Stelline (hair)...a tiny bit of ribbon, music, glue and a wooden ball...and VOILA...a noodle angel. A tad bizarre but pretty cute!!

I get a kick out of this bizarre little melting snowman each year. I should make some more and send them to my Southern relatives. He he he!

Every time I hear the word bizarre I start singing this song...which I know nothing about so had to look up the lyrics to make sure it's er, kosher...I didn't really understand them but there wasn't any swearing...so I thought I'd include the imeem link in case any of ya'll wanna bop along while reading this...hehehe! Have a very Merry and BIZARRE week!!

How Bizarre - OMC

Marriage Monday: Husband Christmas Interview...

I got back from the Thankmas break and realized that it was Marriage Monday. Usually, I post MM on my MomE blog but had already posted...so I perused the other posts...realized there was a bit of Christmas theme to the interviews...took some questions from others...and here is the result...

Me: Describe your ideal Christmas.
Loverbrains: I'd spend it with our family at home. We'd watch the kids unwrap and play with their gifts. We'd read the Christmas story together.

(I'd just started this while making dinner. He graciously followed me into the kitchen to listen to my questions.)

Me: What's your favorite Christmas cookie and why?
Loverbrains: *Big Grin* Molasses Mary V. Cookies...because they taste really good!!

(We just got back from my Mom's where she had a whole passel of these cookies made with black strap molasses so they were really good this year! Made us regular Baptists (due to their laxative effect and our being baptists)...hahaha!)

Me: What is your fondest Christmas memory?
Loverbrains: The first Christmas we were married. LOL...wink wink...squeeze squeeze!!

(Our anniversary is Dec. 21st...we had a great newlywed Christmas that year!!)

Me: Share your thoughts about exchanging gifts.
Loverbrains: *Best loud laugh* They'd be unwrapped...it's a combination of frugality, utility and laziness. HAHA! Just kidding!!

(Truth is he tried to argue this with his mother when he was in high school. Thankfully, she won or ignored him...cuz he still wraps presents.)

Me: How do you think our expectations differ at Christmas?
Loverbrains: I think we have the same main objective...to teach our children more about Jesus Christ. You do more decorating, etc. and I tend to want to relax more...but I like it all!

(I love my man...what a great responsible provider. He's a Godly leader in our home, a caring diaper changing daddy, and a warm and gentle husband! I'm blessed...so blessed!)

Frugal Friday: Bookmark Scraps...

I suppose I should start this post by mentioning that I am in NO WAY a scrapbook person...I use the paper for crafts and such...not actual scrapbooking. So, yes...I know these "leftover" pieces are large enough for some of you creative scrapbooking chicks to use...but for me...they're just plain old leftovers.
But...they are so pretty...and being the insatiable bookworm that I am...and living with Loverbrains who also is a bookworm...and being CHEAP..well, there is always a need for bookmarks. Plus, I can't write in library books...so if I get a good idea...where would I write it down?
They come in super handy for Bible study too. I like to use them for a straight edge to underline verses...and to write out verses. They are also great for cooking shows for that matter...yes, I MULTI-TASK during naptime...I blog, read and watch Barefoot Contessa! I know...I'm talented!

So...if you have leftover bits of pretty paper...maybe you could use some bookmarks!?

Tube Tuesday: Ukelele Love...

I'm having some serious ukelele interests these days. It also adds to my "strings" indoctrination for my little ones...hahaha! Pretend ukeleles all over the place.

Here's the words to "Way Back Home" by Priscilla Ahn...for my Loverbrains...

Don't you go,
Away, I know,
Without your love,
I'll never find my way back home

'Cause you and me,
So happily,
Make all our dreams of make believe reality

La la la La la la La la la la la

Troubles, never find us there
Oh, bubbles, float through the air,
Float through the air
Float through the air air air air

La la la La la la La la la la la

So don't you go,
Away, I know,
Without your love,
I'll never find my way back home,
I'll never find my way back home,
No, no,
I'll never find my way back home,
No, no,
I'll never find my way back home.

Birthday Bonanza...B, B, B...

BIRTHDAY BOUQUET!

For some crazy reason I'm alliterating everything today...with the letter B. Of course, B is the letter of the week this week...hmmm? My dear friend Cathy brought me flowers and a gift...on my blue Friday! I love her...she knows me...she REALLY prays for me! Do you have a friend like that? In the words of Dr. Suess, "If you don't, you should!"BIRTHDAY BALLOONS!

We celebrated my birthday at my husband's parent's house. They had balloons and zany decor for me...and for entertaining the grandkids. My mother in law very thoughtfully got happy birthday candles so I didn't have to look at the numbers.....30! HA!

BIRTHDAY BREAD BOX!

I bought myself a bread box on ebay...for $4.99...plus that in shipping. It was dirty but scrubbed up beautifully! Awww! She likes it in my kitchen...can you tell?

BIRTHDAY BLING!

They got me a beautiful red/rust necklace, bracelet and earrings. I wore them Sunday! My Loverbrains got me a blessed mother necklace...hammered copper, brass and silver. I couldn't get a good close up of mine...so here's her site picture. I love love love it! Of course, mine has the names of my children on it!

Caffeinated Randomness: Septober...argh!

I'm experiencing Septober...you know that odd time where two calendar months collide? Sometimes things on the flip of the calendar sneak right up on you...and WHAM...you're busy. AND if you happen to get sick at that same time...well, hang on it's gonna be a wild ride!

I've had Sinusitis...a really good case of it. You know, when a Dr. says, "You're a real trooper" it's not really a compliment...it means..."You're really sick...and should have come in sooner." He prescribed a codeine (narcotic) based pain killer with my antibiotic cuz my sinuses were killing me. I took one at night...and even in the night they have horrible adverse effects on me. I had wild dreams and sweats and in the morning felt like I was full of cotton and fuzzy. Eww! Nope...no more narcotics for me.

Then, the little man was sick again. He's sick about every two to three weeks for those keeping track. Sure enough...ear infections...antibiotic...again! I'm still trucking a long in my own strength. Dumb...very dumb! Okay, to be honest I had thought of--

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart
And do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He will make your paths straight." Prov. 3:5-6

Notice...I said I thought of it...doesn't mean that I stopped trying to make everything right necessarily. I sort of gave it to God. You ever do that?? Dumb...very dumb...just give it over!

Next, Loverbrains starts saying how tired he is...and probably has a cold...and am I loving and understanding? Oh no! Pure selfishness screamed, jumped up and down, and cried at the thought of yet another sick person to take care of. For heavens sake, it's my turn to be sick. I told a friend that I just didn't think I could face it. She said...in all caps...

"I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH HIM WHO STRENGTHENS ME." Phil. 4:13

Ah..that's right! I am not alone and dependent on my own strength. God is in control today...and He isn't needing my help! The fact that we are all sick is no surprise to God. He knows that we are going out of town for a college reunion. He knows I had a bushel of apples to fully freeze, can, dehydrate and care for!! So why would He allow us to be sick? What is He trying to teach me? Hmmmm?

"And He has said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness." Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me." 2 Cor. 12:9

"Be still and know that I am God." Ps. 46:10

God has a funny way of making me stop and take account of myself. I have a major "trust God" problem...not with big things so much as the little things! Still dangerous! Maybe more so...cuz it sneaks up on you...and Satan tiptoes in and helps you feel all self sufficient and mighty. Sickening! God is God...and I am NOT! If it takes me being sick to see God's proper powerful place in my life...bring it on! AND...double challenge...better make sure that Christ can be seen in me even when I'm sick. Let me just say that I'm mean when I'm sick...so is Loverbrains...and it makes for an ugly marriage! So, who needs to say they're sorry...ME!!!

"Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law." Ps. 119:18
I see so many good things about God when I'm sick. No, it's not the drugs! I see beauty out the window in His Creation. I see wonderful things in my kids playful ways. I see mighty and comforting things in His Word. God is good to His children! I know that sounds sort of crazy...from a sick person...but I know He loves me and He's in control.

So, even if Septober snuck up on me...and I'm buckling up for a bumpy weekend...it'll be alright...cuz I'm not driving! Metaphorically and Literally...God is driving my life...and Darren's driving to Cinci!

Caffeinated Randomness: FALLing thoughts...

Why is it that I always forget that Fall is a pretty rainy season? I must block that out since I only seem to remember all the brisk, bright days instead.

I also forget the sniffly allergy/cold season...ugh! Yup, I'm fighting another cold or something. Good news...I think I'm winning. A big thanks to a wonderful husband who doesn't complain that housework isn't getting done and that I'm less than helpful lately. He even got up with our teething munchkin last night. Wonderful man, my Loverbrains.

My big randomly flitting questions is should we go to an apple farm this weekend...or should we make sure we get the gutters fixed and covered. I want to do the farm...but we probably should do the gutters. Ugh...sigh!

Okay, last random thought...I love the picture above. I found it online...and want to walk into it! I want to be sitting in the boat taking the picture! Ahhhh! Actually, I'm going to FALL onto the couch right now...and go to this little happy place in my head...zzzzzzz!

HAPPY FALL YA'LL!!

SOOOO HAPPY!!!!!!!!

Wanna hear my funny little song? (Think yodel style)

He's home, he's home. My Loverbrains, the DadE, the man is home! Whoo, hoo, hoo!
Mama went shopping all alone...whoo, hoo, hoo!
The little boobahs are happy again...whoo, hoo, hoo! Yiphee!

Happy Memory Monday!!

"I will give thanks to You with all my heart, I will sing praises to You before the gods." Ps.138:1

"I will give You thanks with all my heart; I will sing praises to You before the gods." Ps. 138:1

Close but not quite. I can't believe I messed up the singing part! I wanted to memorize this because of a message our pastor did recently on putting God before any other idols. It has struck me lately that my attitude about various things is just as much an idol as any object. I feed those bad feelings, I choose them over God's ways, etc. I want to remember to give Him thanks and praise before any of the gods in my life. I want them to go away!

Join the gals over at The Simple Wife....here.

Yes, I'm happy today too...cuz tonight my sweet Loverbrains will be home....woohoooo!