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Saturday, April 30, 2011

Bittersweet

My dear readers--I have been remiss in accomplishing my goal of posting every day this past week. I do apologize that I did not mention beforehand that I would be away. Actually, I didn't think I wouldn't be able to post, but that was the case. I had forgotten just how busy Preaching Conference is.

This past week I was down in Indiana for FBC's annual Preaching Conference. This week was a highlight when I was in college, and I find it to be the same out of college.

As a college student, I--along with hundreds of others--was involved with preparation work such as White Glove {cleaning the dorm top to bottom}, and college work party--working to make our campus as inviting as possible to incoming guests. Working in the kitchen during that week was exhausting as we all put in many hours making sure people were fed and happy. There were late nights, and early mornings. It was go, go, go--but I loved it. This past week I enjoyed being on the receiving end of it and was thankful for all the work that was put into it.

It is so neat to be able to gather with like-minded believers and be challenged and exhorted from God's Word, and each other. The preaching was so good--I was personally challenged to learn more about Contemporary Christian Music and its dangers from Dr. Cloud's teaching sessions. Pastor Strange's message on "God in the Hands of Angry Sinners" made me marvel once more at the mercy and love of God as Jesus went to the Cross and suffered for us. All of the messages preached contained so much truth and it was a blessing to sit under the teaching and preaching of God's Word.

It was also a blessing to see friends that I haven't seen in a while. It was wonderful. But also {so} bittersweet. My time there was overshadowed by the fact that it was my last time being at preaching conference. Seeing all the friends that I had made during my years of college and reacquainting myself with many of the church members was certainly memorable. Hearing the orchestra, and wonderful singing--the vitality and business of life was also a highlight. The only thing I didn't miss was the drama that goes on in the girls dorm! I don't know how I will be able to bear not seeing most everyone for at least 10 years.
A mid-life crisis is what I {half jokingly} call this experience of being uprooted. My life is starting all over again. And, I don't understand any part of it. Still, one thing I know and depend on is: God is still in control of the things that happen to me. None of this is a surprise to Him! I have to trust Him, for I will go insane trying to "rationalize" what has happened these last few months. How plans that were well-laid have become derailed. How the security of knowing what is ahead has vanished: leaving me with only one true option--putting my life completely in God's control and leaving it there {as it should have been from the start}. I'm learning the meaning of letting go and and letting God have His way in my life. In the midst of confusion, insecurity, and feelings of being cast adrift, I find peace in the knowledge that God knows, and God cares. That God has a plan for me, even though I don't see it. I can't see the big picture right now, but God can, and one day I'll look back on my life and see how all the details worked out to make me the vessel that He wants.

Sunday, April 24, 2011

He Arose!


O death, where is thy sting?
O grave, where is thy victory?

Jesus lives!

Saturday, April 23, 2011

On Which the Prince of Glory Died

The Weight of the Cross

The crowd pressed in to see this Man who stood condemned to die,
The Man they once proclaimed as King, they now would crucify.
They laid a cross upon His back, pushed Him up the road.
The path would lead to Calvary--He fell beneath the load.
And as I watched I understood the burden that He bore
Was more than just the heavy tree--
the weight was so much more.

The weight of the cross was the weight of my sin.
Not the weight of the tree that was carried by Him.
My guilt and disgrace, Jesus bore in my place.
On Calvary's road, 'neath the weight of the Cross.

His face was scarred; His body bruised.
His head was crowned with thorns.
The crowd now jeered and cursed His name
The object of their scorn.
He never spoke a word to them
The silent Lamb of God.
This Man of Sorrow bore the Cross--
He chose to carry all.
But somehow in His eyes I saw
Love beyond the pain.
As if He knew His sacrifice and loss
Would be my gain.

Consider for a moment the sacrifice Jesus made for you and I. Consider the love He has for us. Consider your responsibility of choosing or rejecting Jesus Christ--not only for salvation, but also for each time you choose to sin over living for Him.

Consider WHO He is...and then consider the things He went through. Betrayal. Mockery. Rejection. Pain. Suffering. Anguish. Took on Himself our sins--the sins of the whole world.

He did all that by choice. No one forced Christ to go through what He did for us--He did it because of His unconditional love for us.

Can we--can I--do any less for Him than to give Him my heart and my soul? My life?

This Easter, take some time to consider what He has done for you. And what you are doing for Him.

Friday, April 22, 2011

A Fundraiser

Back in March, the Upper Learning Center students went to Oshkosh for a student convention. ACE students in the region were brought together to compete in a wide variety of events. Well, for their first time of being at an event like this, our students did pretty well and all of them placed in almost all of what they entered.

This qualified them for internationals. All the way in Virginia. That's a big trip. In order for them to make this trip a reality, the ULC needs to raise $4000. I don't know all the ins-and-outs, since I am just the Kindergarten teacher, but I know the students along with their teacher have rallied and brainstormed to think of ideas for fundraising.

They sold Seroogy's chocolate bars to raise money for regional and decided to go a different route for The Trip.

Today we had a pancake supper fundraiser. I was able to get only a few snapshots since I was one of the ladies manning a griddle for pancakes. It was a fun night and I would say the fundraiser was a success! They exceeded my expectations of how much would be donated :)

The people pictured are not even half of who helped--we had fabulous leaders and so many pitched in at the end for clean-up.

If all the ULC's fundraisers go as well as tonight, they will have their money in no time!





Catch You Later?

So, I have seen more excitement/business in the last couple days than the last several months!

I'm sorry to have skipped posting yesterday, but I seriously had my day filled up to overflowing. Or maybe it was just that I couldn't get to my computer. Either way, I'll be one post/day short this month.

If there is one thing I have come to realize more and more is that there are times when you can't be in control of everything!

Anyway, today is also going to be a super busy day, but I will be able to blog either this afternoon or evening--see ya then!

Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Timeless Treasures {A Charlie Brown Sorta Night}

I normally post just pictures--sometimes with minimal words--on Wednesdays. And to date, they've been my own.

But tonight I'm going to post this picture of Charlie Brown:




because tonight has been a "Charlie Brown" night, and because of the sentiment behind it. When one of my best friends would have a rough day--everything going wrong that possibly can--he would say, "Oh Elsa! I'm having a Charlie Brown day!

I guess it would be the same as having a "Jonah of day" except with Charlie instead of Jonah :)

I think I've exceeded my "minimal" amount of words for Wednesdays--so, have a good night!

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

Tuesday Fun

Today Marsh and I took our students over to our house for some fun.

{The kids watching some shorts.}

{Playing "Guess Where the Marshmallow Is"}


{Girls against boys pictionary!}


{Baby Boo's silly faces}



{The kids enjoying elephant ears :) Super yummy!}
My Kindergartner's really thought it was ears off of elephants. One girl wouldn't touch it until Marsh assured her it was made from "dough". What funny Monkies!


I love doing memorable things with my students! They have been asking to come over since the beginning of the year. They even want to have a sleepover!

Monday, April 18, 2011

Monday Moments {Ponderings}

I was discussing the idea of "being hurt" with a friend of mine {whose anonymity wishes I will respect}, when it occurred to me that this is a universal thought. This is something we all struggle in.

She was telling me of some instances in her childhood in which her trust was betrayed by her supposed friends. People that she opened up to and extended the hand of friendship.

Our discussion made me think of some things:

If people have hurt you in the past--people you loved and trusted--than does it affect your relationship with other people today?

And, why--after being hurt in such a manner--would you as a person want to open yourself up again to others?

Also, if you have been hurt in the past...do you have the right to disregard that person every time you meet them?

So, first thought--If people have hurt you in the past--people you loved and trusted--than does it affect your relationship with other people today?


My thought is yes. If one has been hurt, they will be less inclined to allow people into their lives. I also think that each time the trust and friendship they offer to another person is broken, they become more and more cynical. It would be hard for them to think that they won't be betrayed. It would be hard for them to believe their friends did not have ulterior motives--no matter how small. Those that have been hurt hold people at arms length disillusioning themselves that they will be "safe" from getting hurt.

But, what kind of life is that? If you can't love deeply; if you can't trust explicitly, than why bother? Not to say that you shouldn't be without discernment, for that is an excellent character quality to have. No, putting a barrier around yourself only causes you to be lonely. To become a cynic.

And just what good does that do for you? It seems like your soul is just slowly shriveling up; you can't be afraid to take risks--you can't just live in "bubble wrap" all your life. Everything in life requires some risk--some sacrifice.

Besides, what good is it holding on to hurts that have happened in the past? There is no point in being bitter about it, because you are the one suffering. And you can't change the past. You can only give your hurts to God and work on keeping your own heart soft. And make sure you are worthy of your friend's trust and love.

What do you think?

Sunday, April 17, 2011

What Will You Do, With Jesus?

A fitting question as we get ready to celebrate the Easter season.
Jesus is standing in Pilate's hall—

Friendless, forsaken, betrayed by all:

Hearken! what meaneth the sudden call?

What will you do with Jesus?

{Chorus}

What will you do with Jesus?

Neutral you cannot be;

Some day your heart will be asking,

"What will He do with me?"

Jesus is standing on trial still,

You can be false to Him if you will,

You can be faithful through good or ill:

What will you do with Jesus?

Will you evade Him as Pilate tried?

Or will you choose Him, whate'er betide?

Vainly you struggle from Him to hide:

What will you do with Jesus?

Will you, like Peter, your Lord deny?

Or will you scorn from His foes to fly,

Daring for Jesus to live or die?

What will you do with Jesus?

"Jesus, I give Thee my heart today!

Jesus, I'll follow Thee all the way,

Gladly obeying Thee!" will you say:

"This will I do with Jesus!"

Saturday, April 16, 2011

A Saturday

Well, the snow is back here in the Northwoods. Sigh. I really thought that spring was on its way. Especially after seeing pictures of blooming flowers on all my friends blogs, I thought that our own bulbs would peek through the soil. Ahhh....it's not to be--at least for this weekend.

I had made up my mind to make pancakes this morning, as I've not made them in a while. I didn't want leftovers, and I didn't want to make my coffee cake using any extra batter so I figured out ingredients for just two servings.

By the way, this cooking for one gets awfully irritating! Several weeks ago, I made a goulash; I still have two containers of it sitting in the freezer! No, no; I'm not a fan of cooking for one! And then sometimes I wonder what the point is of making food if I'm the only one eating it? But, I'm not a fan of boxed/canned/frozen convenience foods simply because I never had that growing up. And, some of the stuff tastes just horrid. I wonder what other single people do?

Anyway, I turned my griddle on to preheat while I made the pancake batter. I thought it was a little weird that the griddle wasn't that hot when I touched it, but spooned some batter onto it anyway. While they were cooking *I thought*, I started doing my dishes.

I kept checking, but there were no bubbles forming and well...the pancakes were just sitting there. I was getting sorta frustrated when Marsh came in the kitchen. I told her that something was wrong with the griddle because pancakes do not take 20 minutes to cook.

Well, she walked over, felt the griddle and checked the thermometer. In a sickly sweet voice {I think she was trying not to laugh} she said, "Well, I think your problem is that you have it on warm and not on 350 like you think."

Whaaa...no way! But, it was true. I had not turned the knob all the way {blonde moment?}, and my pancakes were cooking on warm. Actually, they were just sitting there like bumps on logs.

Marsh will go down in history as "the girl who fixed the pancake griddle"...Good thing Marsh was around!

Friday, April 15, 2011

Feasting Friday's

A couple weeks ago, I bought some Betty Crocker mashed potato flakes for a really good deal. I set out to make some when I realized I had run out of milk. {I only keep 1/2 a gallon of white milk for cooking purposes}.

I decided to see if sour cream would be a good substitute. It turned out smooth and creamy; however, I put too much in it and the potatoes had an exceptionally sour taste. I had an instinctive gut feeling not to put the rest of the sour cream in, but I didn't want to waste it, and I didn't have enough to use it in any other recipe.

I should have just gone with my instinct.

Anyway, this morning I tried to fix my mistake and make the potatoes at least palatable. I heated them on the stovetop, added milk, water and a new packet of potato flakes. I gave it a good stir, added a couple sticks of butter, salt and pepper. It tasted fine, but still seemed to be missing something.

That's when I decided I would make Shepherd's Pie. I already had a pound of ground beef thawed out, and my potato topping ready to go! I would just have to slice and dice up some vegetables and I would have a hearty meal for this cold, blustery, rainy day. Perfect.

The only problem is, when I got back to my house {I was at school working} Marsh and I started talking and next thing I knew it was 8:30. Way too late to put together a SP! As well as bake and eat it!

So, I thought and thought about something to make that would be easy, quick, and delicious. I came up with:

!!ELePhANt eArS!!

I had some leftover tortilla shells, so I fried some up in about an inch of vegetable oil. When they turned golden brown, I shook them out a little to remove excess oil. I placed them on a plate; sprinkled them with a sugar/cinnamon mixture and enjoyed them while they were still hot. Marsh ate some too and she loved them :)

Alas, I did not have my camera, so I do not have any pictures. BUT, we're having a special day in our class on Monday, and I will be making them again!



PS. It wasn't the most nutritional supper, but it sure tasted good! ;)

Thursday, April 14, 2011

A Battle

Today I had a fight. I wasn't expecting it, and I'm afraid I lost. I tried to hold myself in, but I fear that I was not a gracious loser.

Frankly, I have no one to blame but myself. For how can you be angry at an inanimate object?

Last night we had church, as we always do on Wednesday nights. We normally get out around 8, but Marsh and I were stuck fellowshiping with CL. First we talked about how it was turkey season, and then his guns. The conversation then ended up on politics.

If you want to maintain a nice opinion about your acquaintances and friends, don't talk about politics.

Anyway, we got home about 10:30, and by that time, I did not feel like making a promised cake for my student. Instead, I was going to get up early and make it before school.

As there was no way I was going to disappoint my student, I made the batter and stuck it in the oven before rushing over to school. I planned on coming back in 20 minutes, by which time the cake should have been done.

After having the preschool teacher agree to watch my students, I set off back to my house. It was bitterly cold today, with a wind that just sliced through you. I put my hands in my pockets and stepped up my pace. I walked up the gravel walk behind Bader's store and our house, past Goldi {Marsh's car}, and around the corner of our house.

I lifted my foot to take the first of two steps, only to find myself on all fours--my shins scraped and blood spurting out of my little pinkie. Because my hands were in my pockets, there was no way I could have broken my fall. One of my sandals fell off, and I found myself doing a pain dance before I could bring myself to walk up the steps, open the door and walk in.

I thought I had a high pain tolerance, but apparently it's been some time since I've gotten hurt.

My battle wound--well, my fingers. My shins are black and blue and hurt everytime I walk.



I guess the moral of the story is: Don't talk politics with your friends when you've got lots to do. It'll just set you back!

Have a good night, all!

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Letters

Yesterday we discussed Postal services and men and women who deliver mail. The students had a brief amount of time to start a letter to whomever they wished.

The assignment was to write about anything they wanted--to someone who, preferably, lived far away. I expected: well, thought-out sentences, variety and creativity in sentence structure, perfect punctuation and spelling. In addition to having beautifully scripted writing. No Doctor scratch allowed here!

They looked at me in rapt attention, soaking in all the required details for this their precious first letter. One child had her head cocked in such a way that conveyed deep thought.

Or perhaps it was just perplexment as to what all the words spouting from my mouth meant.

Did I mention I used my English accent?

We didn't have a lot of time so, seeing as 3 are in K5 and 1 in K4, I conceded to let them draw a picture before writing their magnificent letters.

Today we wrapped them up; here they are in all their glory. Please, don't be too magnanimous with your comments; their heads will swell.


The first masterpiece.


The second masterpiece.


The third masterpiece.

And, unfortunately, I cannot get Picasa to work for my fourth student's masterpiece. And since I'm losing my patience with this piece of machinery [computer], I'm calling it a night and, hopefully, tomorrow I can get things to work.

Anyway, I'm sure it would have been easier to scan them, but since I don't have one, these pictures will have to do.

I'm sure the recipients will enjoy having their own masterpiece of a letter!

Monday, April 11, 2011

Monday Moments {Conglomeration Of Things}

1. In social studies right now, we are learning about community helpers. Today we discussed the firefighters, mail men/women, and government leaders. I had a poster of a mayor sitting at his desk and was just about to explain his person to the students when Superman blurted out, "Hey that's the PRIEST!".

I have NO idea where he got that from.

2. Yesterday was so warm in the morning. I'm not sure of the temperature, but several people were out on their bikes and were workin' up a sweat.

I sat on my rocker in our screened porch sipping iced tea and reading a book. And talked to Marsh when she got back from her ride. And some other friends who dropped by.

I love Spring.

3. My youngest sister turned 4 yesterday. The last time I saw her, she was just over 2 years and that's the image I have of her. Therefore, when she talks to me on the phone like a 14 year old, I'm blown over. She is hilarious. And, she sounds like my brother so I always get them mixed up--as she so graciously tells me. Not.

4. Sometimes I wish I had a puppy. Or kitten. But the feeling soon passes when I see mentioned animals slobbering all over their owners faces.

I guess I just like the idea of having a pet.

5. There are only 7 more school days until our spring break!! And, no, my counting is not off on this. We only have school Monday to Thursday :).

6. This means that Preaching conference is two weeks from today. Which reminds me that I never did post part two of my PC week from last year--better get on the ball before this year's!

7. There is hardly any snow on the ground. The torrential downpour from yesterday took care of that.

8. Speaking of the thunderstorm, I was afraid my window in my room was going to shatter from all the wind! I also heard that a tornado touched down in a town just 20 {30 if you drive to enjoy the scenery} minutes away from us and could possibly be coming our way.

It didn't.

9. So, remember my sad tale of my bathroom makeover? And the shower was having problems as well as the flooring? Well, I talked to the landlord and we most likely will get a new shower and floor! So, perhaps my makeover won't be completely scrapped.
Yippee!!

Sunday, April 10, 2011

Rejoice in the LORD - by Ron Hamilton


Ahh...no matter what happens in life, may we find joy in Christ.

A beautiful song, with great meaning--also another one of my favorites.

Now I must go before the wind carries my Internet access away, and the skies break open with a vengeance!

Enjoy the song, and may it be an encouragement!

Saturday, April 9, 2011

How Much She Has Changed!

Baby Boo has changed a lot since she was born last February. When I look at early pictures, I'm amazed at how far she has come.


A tiny preemie. In the top right picture, Crazy Lady measures Boo's smallness by her foot.


Growing! Baby Boo gettin' chubby :)


Showin' some personality.


Being ornery in the lunch room.

Isn't she so cute?!

Friday, April 8, 2011

Red Friday's

Ever since the Wisconsin Supreme Court candidate JoAnne Kloppenburg and Justice David Prosser have been going at it, I have listened to my friends discuss political issues, and wondered how America has changed from the country I once thought it as.

My first recollection of anything American dates back to just a couple years after we immigrated to Canada. We lived on Cascade Ave in the east part of London, just a block away from the public school we went to. I remember we had a tv, but it didn't see much use. Until the movie, Angels in the Outfield was brought into our house. We used to watch it all the time--it was one of the three movies our family owned--and could recite most of it. Well, in the first couple of scenes the American anthem is sung before they started playing baseball. Thus, my love for America was born and I could belt out the anthem just as well as I could to my own Canadian one. After my grade four year at public school, my parents switched us kids to Bethel Baptist Academy and I began to learn more about America through the curriculum our school used.

Although I loved Canada, I became fascinated with America because it was the country I learned about. I had only visited the country once--New York--and my family didn't even stay very long or see any sights, but the stories I would read made me fall in love with our Southern neighbour.

One of the main reasons I was endeared to the US was  because of the military. All the smart looking divisions; the code they lived by; the heroic deeds I read about; the heart wrenching photo clips of families standing by the grave sites of their fallen Soldier; happy clips of wives and husbands reuniting, as well as fathers and children closely embraced. This all caused me to have a deep respect for America as a whole. I would see photographs of the American flag waving; see patriotic souls captured on film. I viewed America as a land loved by her inhabitants; a people fiercely independent and patriotic--from the smallest person to the oldest.

Since living in the States during my years at college and the two years I've been teaching, my eyes have seen a little bit more and I don't have the same idealistic thoughts as I once did. I am saddened by the decline  I see: from politics to the disrespect people show when the Flag passes by, or the anthem is being sung. I'm saddened that more and more people do not even know the words to famous patriotic songs, and more importantly, the national anthem. I'm saddened by the division and strife that is seen among the people.

But, even through all this, I find that my admiration--though not as strong--is still a part of me. Because of the folks I've met who are still patriotic, and who still love their country. Because of stories such as the following found in my inbox yesterday, reminding me of people who still care.




Will You give this to my Daddy?

As a Company, Southwest Airlines is going to support 'Red Fridays.'

 
Last week I was in Atlanta , Georgia attending a conference. While I was in the airport, returning home, I heard several people behind me beginning to clap and cheer. I immediately turned around and witnessed One of the greatest acts of patriotism I have ever seen. Moving thru the terminal was a group of soldiers in their camas. As they began heading to their gate, everyone (well almost everyone) was abruptly to their feet with their hands waving and cheering. When I saw the soldiers, probably 30-40 of them, being applauded and Cheered for, it hit me. I'm not alone. I'm not the only red-blooded American who still loves this country and supports our troops and their families.

Of course I immediately stopped and began clapping for these young unsung heroes who are putting their lives on the line everyday for us so we can go to school, work and home without fear or reprisal. Just when I thought I could not be more proud of my country or of our Service men and women, a young girl, not more than 6 or 7 years old ran up to one of the male soldiers.. He kneeled down and said 'hi...'

The little girl then asked him if he would give something to her daddy for her...The young soldier, who didn't look any older than maybe 22 himself, said he would try and what did she want to give to her daddy. Then suddenly the little girl grabbed the neck of this soldier, gave him the biggest hug she could muster and then kissed him on the cheek.

The mother of the little girl, who said her daughter's name was Courtney , told the young soldier that her husband was a Marine and had been in Iraq for 11 months now. As the mom was explaining how much her daughter Courtney missed her father, the young soldier began to tear up.

When this temporarily single mom was done explaining her situation, all of the soldiers huddled together for a brief second... Then one of the other servicemen pulled out a military-looking walkie-talkie. They started playing with the device and talking back and forth on it..

After about 10-15 seconds of this, the young soldier walked back over to Courtney , bent down and said this to her, 'I spoke to your daddy and he told me to give this to you.' He then hugged this little girl that he had just met and gave her a kiss on the cheek. He finished by saying 'your daddy told me to tell you that he loves you more than anything and he is coming home very soon.'

The mom at this point was crying almost uncontrollably and as the young soldier stood to his feet, he saluted Courtney and her mom. I was standing no more than 6 feet away from this entire event.

As the soldiers began to leave, heading towards their gate, people resumed their applause. As I stood there applauding and looked around, there were very few dry eyes, including my own. That young soldier in one last act of selflessness turned around and blew a kiss to Courtney with a tear rolling down his cheek.

We need to remember everyday all of our soldiers and their families and thank God for them and their sacrifices. At the end of the day, it's good to be an American.


RED FRIDAYS ----- Very soon, you will see a great many people wearing red every Friday. The reason? Americans who support our troops used to be called the 'silent majority'. We are no longer silent, and are voicing our love for God, country and home in record breaking numbers. Our idea of showing solidarity and support for our troops with dignity and respect starts this Friday - and continues each and every Friday until the troops all come home, sending a deafening message that.. Every red-blooded American who supports our men and women afar will wear something red. By word of mouth, press, TV -- let's make the United States on every Friday a sea of red much like a homecoming football game in the bleachers. If every one of us who loves this country will share this with acquaintances, co-workers, friends, and family. It will not be long before the USA is covered in RED.

The first thing a soldier says when asked 'What can we do to make things better for you?' is.....We need your support and your prayers.

Let's get the word out and lead with class and dignity, by example.

Bill & Cathy

Thursday, April 7, 2011

My Mum

Today is my Mum's birthday. This has been the case only in recent years. We used to celebrate it on May 7; the day my dad declared it to be the birth date on my Mum's papers. The reason for this was because my Mum's birth certificate was back in Africa, and so my Dad just picked a month and day. When my Mum went back home to visit her family, she found the documentation of her birth and set us right. {On a side note, my Dad was quite proud of himself to only have been one month off :} Back in my parents childhood, quite often, the only celebrated birthday was a child's first. After that, I don't think people kept close records--they would have to stop and think a minute.

For some reason, I didn't keep track of my parents age. If asked how old my parents were, I normally said whatever ages the parents of one of my friend's. I remember asking my Mum one day how old she was and she told me 36. From then on, she was perpetually 36 years of age whenever any of us kids asked her. I think in part it was because turning another year older wasn't a big deal, and also because all of us kids kept her youthful! She did in fact turn 46 today, but she definitely does NOT look it. She kinda looks like she's....well, 36! :)

My Mum is the best. I want to share some things that have proved that to me many times over:

~She is selfless: She is the first to wake up in the morning. She gets up at the crack of dawn and makes breakfast for my Dad as well as all the kids before seeing us off to our respective places.

~She buys only the best for her family and prepares from-scratch meals for all meals.

~She has business savvy and knows how to cut costs while keeping quality.

~She loves to laugh and tell stories.

~She has an overabundance of patience.

~She chose to raise her family in a free land with lots of opportunities to learn about God and receive a good education at the cost of knowing she wouldn't see her family very much {majority of whom are still in Africa}.

~She is content to stay at home and raise her family {7 boys and 4 girls}--and then let them go as they get older.

~She is passionate and fiercely loyal.

~She loves God and is seen reading her Bible in the early mornings or late at night.

~She is the last one to go to sleep--making sure her household is in order.

~She encourages us kids to follow God and do His will.

~She listens much and gives advice accordingly.

And many, many more qualities. My Mum is truly a Proverbs 31 Lady. I wish I was home to tell her "Happy Birthday"; to pamper her and let her relax on this her special day. For now, a "Happy Birthday" from a far will do, but I pray that God blesses her with many more birthdays in the years to come!

I love you Mum!! Happy Birthday!!

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Timeless Treasures {Twizzler Eating Contest}

This sememster, I started waking up my students after an hour rest period to work on more school work. Their favorite!
{I was only half day before, but wanted to incorporate some science and history lessons in the afternoon--so twice a week, we have full days of school.}

Anyway, on this particular day, the kids were exceptionally sleepy and taking their time waking up, so I had a contest: who can eat the twizzlers the quickest--a throwback to my days of working on bus in college :)

The boys each got two twizzlers that they had to unwrap and eat. The girls just wanted to watch.



Here we are after I said "GO!". Superman was having a hard time opening his twizzler. He was also listening to his female classmates.


Bear was munching his as Superman still struggled...

I couldn't help; I was taking pictures. Besides, that would have been cheating.



The enthusiastic spectators. Intently looking back and forth, wondering which boy would win.

They were also sharing their insights on how to open twizzlers. I don't think it did Superman any good.



The winner.


Superman lost came in second place. Positive thinking is key.

He did keep trying to get his twizzler open. He finally got it after school.

He must have been really tired.

Oh, and the prize for winning was...a twizzler.

Tuesday, April 5, 2011

A List of My Sad Tale of Bathroom Rennovations...Or Lack Thereof

1. The shower door does not latch properly anymore. You have to give it a few good yanks to close it, just to have it pop open mid-shower.

2. Because of that, water leeks through. And forms puddles. Also there's a gap in the corner.

3. It must have been happening for a while. I'm sure underneath the plastic tiles, the floor is rotting through. I can just imagine one day falling through and landing in our basememt covered in spider webs. And hanging dead mice.

Not really on the last part, maybe. I did see one hanging upside down from the rafters. Almost at eye level. It was gross. I'm not sure how long he was there.

4. The top half of the walls? Remember I forgot what they were called? Well, it's panelling. Covered in a plastic-water-resistent-wallpaper-look-a-like.  For trailers. My Crafty Friend said that regular primer would just form little beads.

5. Therefore, the primer I got will not stick to those walls.

6. On top of that, my Crafty Friend told me that I would have to sand down the bottom half.

7. I did not think I had to do that. I knew that I would need to fill and sand the holes where nails were, but not the entire wall!

8. No, I've never done home renovations before.

9. I helped my Dad paint...well, I held up the paint tray...and I painted most of the nursery here at church.

10. Marsh made me promise to get everything done in the bathroom before I left in June...

11. It's a good thing her sister came to visit us soon after I was ready to start. Obviously, I couldn't paint when they were here.

12. I'm also grateful that Marsh suggested I wait until after my Scentsy party before I started painting. Housemates are good sometimes, huh?

She'll be relieved to know that no half-done rennovation jobs will be left for her to clean up.

13. Does anyone need primer that prevents mold? Or white paint?

14. I guess this is where research would have come in handy before I had my heart set on making over the bathroom!

15. And I was so looking forward to having a changed bathroom. In blue's and cream's.

Monday, April 4, 2011

Monday Moments {Excerpts}

Although I don't normally read Christian help books, I was impressed to buy The Pulling Down of Strongholds by Dr. R. B. Ouellete at Preaching Conference last year. It is a book of 158 pages and I remember reading it in about an hour or so, but promptly forgot about it after placing it on my bookshelf.

Well, I remembered about it last night and read it again today. I would like to share some excerpts from the book that caused me to stop and think:

We want to know the will of God in advance so we can review it and see if it meets our approval. There is no free trial offer where you get thirty days to see if you like God's plan. The only way you can ever live in the will of God is to surrender to it--in advance. That's where faith comes in; you have to believe to see.

Surrender is writing God a blanck check for the rest of your life...Given what He has done for us [sacrifice Jesus made for us on the cross] it is only reasonable that we yield ourselves back to Him.

Our circumstances should never cause us to fear that God has abandoned us.

If you act on Bible principles, you are safe; if you follow your heart, you are in great danger. [The heart is "deceitful...and desperately wicked" Jer. 17:9]

Fear destroys faith.

Fear keeps us from obeying God's commands.

...Unforgiving people are unhappy people; unforgiving people are unblessed people; unforgiving peoplea re unused people; and, according to the Word of God, unforgivng people are unforgivin people. [Jesus said, "But if ye forgive not men thier trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses" Matt. 6:15]

Someone once said that harboring bitterness in your heart is like drinking poison and waiting for the other person to die.

Holding a grudge, harboring biterness and remembering everything wrong that has been done to you is a sign of bitterness, and bitterness is a warning sign of a stronghold in your life.

Many of the strong impulses and urges we have originate with the Devil, but the responsibility for sin lies with us.

The way ot of your stronghold, the way out of your depression, the way out of your gloom the way out of your darkness, the way out of your bitterness begins when you start praising God.

Submission is obeying God regardless of our feelings.

Saying you want to get closer to God deosn't improve your relationship with Him. The Bible says that we have to draw closer to Him; and when we do, He will draw closer to us...everytime you take a step toward God, He takes a step toward you...Until we do what we know what is right, God is not going to move toward us.

The best way to cast down strongholds is to keep them from being formed in the first place. To do that, we must attack wrong thoughts as soon as we have them [by using Scripture as per Jesus' example when the Devil tempted Him.]

Sunday, April 3, 2011

Day by Day

This is one of my very favorite songs. I hope you will listen and be encouraged by it.

Enjoy!




Saturday, April 2, 2011

Good Times

Scentsy is a company that sells wickless candles. If you want to know more, you can look up their website here. Anyway, TS is a consultant, and as I said a couple days ago, she asked me if I wanted to host a party. My first thought was, "Uh...ME? Ask a whole bunch of people to a party where I would be the hostess?!" Don't get me wrong--I love getting together with friends from church and doing fun things as long as I'm not the one in charge. As long as I have a choice of  either sitting in the corner watching and listening to all that goes on; or, if I feel especially talkative, sit in the middle of all the action. I'm a behind-the-scenes type of gal. But, since I would be the hostess I would be expected to make small talk and do hostessy type things until TS was ready to start.

So, in a rare burst of boldness and attempt to shed my shy shell, I decided to host the party at mine and Marsh's house. The early part of the morning was spent cleaning and making sure there was enough seats for the guests. Since this is the first "home party" I've ever had, Marsh--a pro compared to me--came through many times throughout the day. Thanks Monkey!

I'm happy to say that I had no "culinary disasters"! After my horrid dream, I was afraid of ruining supper for the ladies and being forced to offer PB & J sandwiches. For snacks/ horsd'oeuvres I put together a veggie tray with dip, had chips and salsa, and homemade chocolate chip cookies. I was glad the cookies came together well because they tend to be different each time I make them {although I don't know why since I use the same basic recipe! But, I suppose I should follow the recipe as written instead of doing my own variations}. The only time I became ill at ease was when I had to assemble the sandwiches. I was having Hot Ham & Cheese sandwiches and although easy to make, I hate when people have to wait on me for things. But, I suppose as Chef Wright told me when I worked in the Kitchen during college, "The food is here; they'll wait". Nonetheless, I was happy to announce the sandwiches were ready. The ladies were more than gracious and all enjoyed supper. And, the ice cream cake--yumm-o!

Anyway, all kidding aside, I had a marvelous time and I think the ladies all did too. There was so much laughter and camaraderie throughout the night. I'm so glad for the gals who were there! Every time I look at this {A thank-you from TS for hosting the party.}:




 






 I will remember with fondness the great time I had with friends and church family.
 
*The only down part of the whole evening is that I took no pictures! The above two are courtesy of Google Image*

Friday, April 1, 2011

Today Was It!

Well, the Scentsy party was on the agenda for today, and I would say that it went pretty well.
Details coming tomorrow {actually, later today--but, since I didn't go to sleep yet, it's technically still the 1st...really. I'm not April Foolin' ya ;}

Plus, I found out some new information about my bathroom renovation job--and it wasn't good news.



Meet ya here tomorrow, folks!