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Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Counting Down the Days

**We took a "surprise" field trip today. If you recall, some ladies from church were teaching the girls in our school how to knit/crochet/cross-stitch, and we went to see how yarn is made. In my mind I was thinking of a factory, and so I was greatly surprised to find the bus pulled up in a farmyard. {I'm not really sure why I was surprised seeing as how we do live out in the boonies!}
     Anyway, the woman who ran this independent "factory" was very informative and explained how all the machines were used as well as showing us her loom and sock knitter apparatus. She was very friendly and just had a sweet spirit as she gave us tour of her business.

**My class has been practicing really hard on their program, and I hope they do well on Sunday night. Ugh. It makes ME nervous just thinking about it! I definitely feel for Jimmy Dean who will have to do it next year--but, I'm soooooo glad it won't be me!!
--side note, this time last year, we were officially on summer break....*sigh*

**My room looks so bare :( I have taken everything off the walls, cleaned the blackboard and whiteboard, and stripped the bulletin boards {I put a little graduation diddy on them so doesn't look too bad}. On the one hand, it looks so drab and depressing...on the other hand, "Hurrah!! School is almost over!". Mixed feelings give me a headache!

**A week from Thursday, June 9, I will be leaving the Great White North. I have a ton of packing/sorting to do before than because I took a break earlier this month. I'm also going to do "inventory" with Jimmy Dean of all the K4 and K5 material I have.

**Whew. I'm so glad that there are slow times in between the fast times. Back to school, Thanksgiving/Christmas, Report cards, Lesson Plans, Trips, Graduation and of course the many responsibilities in between when you are rushing to meet deadlines without cracking under pressure and making sure you remembered absolutely everything! But, what is life if not busy? I would be bored out of my mind!

Monday, May 30, 2011

Monday Moments { Memorial Day, 2011: Honour Our Soldiers }

Thankful for the men and women who have fought--not only in the recent war in Afghanistan and Iraq, but throughout the centuries of America and Canada becoming their own countries. I'm thankful that people still believe in freedoms, and are fighting for them. It saddens me to hear disparaging comments about the military--do people really want to lower the morale of our soldiers by riding on their political high horse? Can't people be supportive of the men and women standing in harm's way? For those who will die today? Are people so far removed that they are ungrateful for the sacrifices made on their behalf? What if the troops were to all come home? Then would you cry and wail that the freedoms you once enjoyed are being taken over by the enemy? Yes, there are wrong decisions made everyday. There are other ways of doing things: but, must people take it out on the soldiers?

I for one, support our troops. I am thankful for their willingness to take my place. I'm thankful I can enjoy my life with its freedoms because of their sacrifice. I'm thankful for servicemen and women on the front lines; for their loved ones back home; for those who have laid down their lives; and for citizens who support the troops. I'm thankful for those I know personally that serve; the husband of one of my best friends is serving right now in Afghanistan. Through this couple I've gotten just a glimpse of what it must be like for people that have loved ones in the war. The waiting, the uncertainty and fear; the hopelessness of not being able to "do" anything; the loneliness of being apart. The pride of knowing you're standing for right; the unselfishness of serving, even when it is not appreciated at times; the hope of reuniting; the realization of how precious time and love is with each other.

 I'm proud and thankful to be a Canadian...and I'm proud and thankful America is our neighbour and ally. I'm grateful for these days set apart--Memorial Day, Remembrance Day, and Veteran's Day--in which we can remember:

All gave some, and some gave All.




Sunday, May 29, 2011

Let the Lord Have His Way

I first learned this song in my home church several years ago. At the time, it seemed this song was the "theme" song for both the church and school. Anyway, I remember taking a copy of the song back to college and soon we were singing it during dorm devotions as well.

On the last Sunday of the month, the Youth Choir sings a song that they have been practicing all month long. Today's song was, Let the Lord Have His Way. I think the first verse is common; the last two were written by a lady in our church in response to the Pastor's request for more verses for the song! I hope this song can be a prayer, a reminder, a challenge...a blessing--for you.

Let the Lord Have His Way

Let the Lord have His way,
In your life ev'ry day,
There's no rest, there's no peace,
Until the Lord has His way.
Place your life in His Hand,
Rest secure in His plan.
Let the Lord,
Let the Lord have His way!

Let the Lord take control,
Give your heart, give your soul.
Trust His Word, God knows best,
He'll see you through ev'ry test.
In the storm, in His will--
Hear His voice, "Peace be still."
Let the Lord,
Let the Lord take control!

Let the Lord be seen in you,
Ev'ry day in all you do;
In your words, in your smile--
Is He there all the while?
Let His love flow right through,
Touching friend and neighbour too.
Let the Lord,
Let the Lord shine through you!


Verse 1 written by J.M Henson, 1941, renewed 1969 Faith Music
Verses 2&3 written by Lisa Cross

Saturday, May 28, 2011

Russell

Invariably it happens. You are sitting with friends, reminiscing and you cannot for the life of you remember the correct name of the face pictured in your mind. You're sure it starts with an "R", and so you throw out a whole bunch of names that begin with the letter--only to find out later on {if it does ever come to you} that the name really began with an "L"

Or perhaps you're by yourself, lost in thought meandering through the corridors of your memory, when you realize that you forgot so and so's name! But you can picture the way they talked, dressed--everything! Except of course, for their name. You rack your brain, trying to think of names that "match" the person--but alas, no inspiration strikes you. So you try to think deeper. You push everything out of your mind until you only see this person and you try, oh-so-hard to remember. The name seems to be floating, just out of reach. It's on the tip of your memory bank. You strain to catch--you've almost got it and you don't want to give up. But the more you think on it, the name begins to slip away and you have a distinct feeling you left your friend behind.

That is my predicament at this precise moment. Several years ago, I had the privilege of working with a young boy--first on my Gary bus route, and then my bus route in Black Oak. During the spring of my first year on bus, I remember tragedy striking this family. A guy came to the front door of their house, and when the mother opened it, he shot and killed her. All in the presence of the 3 kids--2 boys and a girl. I didn't see them again until my junior year and the kids had changed so much. The youngest boy was on so much medication {I'm not sure if it was b/c he was autistic, or because the grandmother couldn't handle him and so he was doped up} that at 6 years of age he must have weighed close to 200lbs. if not more. My heart went out to him because it seemed he was getting lost in the shuffle of life. I remember in our Shepherds class {good times with Mrs. K} he would sometimes fall asleep in his chair...and then we would have move to the floor so he would have more ease in breathing. When he got hyper and started running--oh boy! He could bowl anyone over. There was no stopping him when he put his beefy arms around you--squeezing in love...even though, my heart always filled with love for him--and still does. I often wonder how he is now. If he still comes to church.

I wonder, hope, and pray.

Oh, and his name has come back to me. My sweet boy, Russell.

Friday, May 27, 2011

Cowboys and Indians {A Funny}

Three strangers strike up a conversation in the airport passenger lounge in Calgary, Alberta, while awaiting their respective flights. One is a native Indian from the Sarcee Reservation.


Another is a cowboy on his way to Vancouver for a livestock auction.


The third passenger is a Arab student newly arrived at the University of Calgary from the Middle East.


Their discussion drifts to their diverse cultures. Soon, the two Albertans learn that the Arab is a devout, radical Muslim and the conversation falls into an uneasy lull.. The cowboy leans back in his chair, crosses his boots on a magazine table and tips his big sweat-stained hat forward over his face. The wind outside is blowing tumbleweeds around, and the old windsock is flapping, but still no plane comes.



To break the silence, the Indian clears his throat and softly speaks:

"At one time here, my people were many, but sadly, now we are few."



The Muslim student raises an eyebrow and leans forward:

"Once my people were few" he sneers, "and now we are many. Why do you suppose that is?"



The Alberta cowboy shifts his toothpick to one side of his mouth, and from the darkness beneath his Stetson says in a smooth drawl, "That's 'cause we ain't played Cowboys and Muslims yet . . . but I do believe it's a-comin'..."
 

Thursday, May 26, 2011

My Kiddos

I am so proud of my students. Each one has come a long way--not only from the beginning of this past school year, but also from how they were last year. I see a difference in their behavior, learning, and looks. They were my guinea pigs--first in teaching K4, and this past year in K5. We learned together through trial and error.  There was frustration, as well as triumph. There were serious discussions and silly banter. Warm hugs and "I love you"s. Discipline and restitution. Tedious penmanship and cool science experiments. Days when we all were super excited to be in school...and times when we wished it was still the weekend. Lunch and recess were favorite times of the day! Inquisitive and thirsty for learning...or, dead as a doornail. The normal and unexpected. Birthdays, Christmas, valentine's day--all celebrated with sweet abandon.

I love my students. Every one of them {even though they sometimes drove me crazy :}. I feel undeserving of the trust placed in me by their parents. By the students themselves. But, I am so very thankful I got to teach them for the last two years.

Just as the 5th and 6th grade class from my student teaching days will always be in my heart, so will these precious 5 and 6 year olds I was blessed to call my students.

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Busy Tuesday

**I think I was spoiled these last several months with only having to worry about myself. Since I live so close to the school, I don't have to get up super early to get ready--1 hour tops. So, making sure there is enough time for all three girls to bathe, dress, eat breakfast, and be ready for school has been a juggle because I'm still on my "1 hour" schedule. Tomorrow, my goal is to beat the other teachers to school--we'll see how it goes!

**After we do our pledges and prayer, we have music time. The mascot/symbol for our school is the eagle, so the school song for the program is Wings As Eagles by Ron Hamilton. We have been practicing that song as well as Let the Lord Have His Way with the younger academy.

**In my class we have been finishing up loose ends and going over our Kindergarten Graduation program. Oh my. My three graduates--Beans, Bear, and Superman--are super excited. Actually, we ALL are super excited to finish!

**After being dreary all day yesterday, we were finally able to get out at lunch recess for some sun and fun. I had asked Superman to bring me my camera, but once he got outside he asked if he could take pictures--so, he was the official photographer of the noon hour. Here are some pictures he took:







**Then tonight the girls and I went to the park with the Twins--here are some pictures from that:





Being crazy on the merry-go-round.


**Then I mowed the lawn at my house while Marsh watched all the kiddos. That is one of my favorite things to do--but, boy was the grass long!

A fun-filled productive day. Loved it.

Monday, May 23, 2011

Monday Moments {A Cool Experience}

At about 5:10 yesterday, I got a call from Pops {the M kids Grandpa}. He asked me if I was watching the weather, to which I cheerfully replied that it was just raining--nothing to worry about {I love thunderstorms}! Well, he says, there are tornado warnings south {I think--he used lots of directional words and I'm not overly familiar with the area...or NESW :/ } and you need to take the kids to the basement. I was a little skeptical that we would have a tornado, but who am I to argue with Pops?

I must also include here that the oldest M kid, Jac, is TERRIFIED of strong winds/thunderstorms etc. as well as the basement. So, as I definitely did not want to deal with hysterical children {I had all 5 yesterday} I turned going downstairs into a game and we ended up sorting/folding laundry while we waited.

At this point, I thought of calling Marsh and letting her know that there could be a possibility of tornadoes in our area and she should go down to the basement. While I was on the phone with her, we heard the siren in the middle of town that signaled people to find shelter. So we did in our respective locations.

I came up periodically to check on the weather and didn't notice too much of a difference from a normal thunderstorm. I was back on the phone with Marsh and described the cloud formation that was right above the house. It seemed like there was a definite distinction in the sky: stormy gray and dark angry clouds. Sort of like in the cartoons when there is a dark black cloud hanging over someone. The clouds seemed to be moving quite fast, and in the distance I thought maybe I was seeing a tornado, but wasn't sure because over towards church I could see patches of blue sky and it just didn't look like our area would get a tornado. The siren went off again, and I came back inside from the porch and collected some snacks and things for the kids just in case something did happen.

Around five to six, Pops called me and said that a tornado touched down in the next town over from us--less than a ten minute drive--and so it should be alright for us to leave our hideaway. Whew. The kids had no idea what had gone on and their only complaint was that I didn't give them any of the snacks--other than that, they had fun

This morning at school, both Marsh and Jimmy Dean told me that I had seen a funnel--the beginnings of a tornado. Wow. It was the providence of God that it didn't touch down in our town, especially because the surrounding towns all had sightings/touchdowns.

So, my first experience with tornadoes was....a really cool experience--overall anyway :)

The following link is a recording of the weather on someones cell that lived south of where we were, if you want to watch--I saw the same thing, but much more up close and personal.

{I didn't know how to show just this one clip, so excuse the other videos}
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P602zP0d_l4

Sunday, May 22, 2011

Blessed Quietness

Every time I sing this song or hear it, my mind drifts back to when us dorm girls would sing it during Dorm Devos. Those were some of my favorite times. It seemed like we all just lay aside our differences and enjoyed singing our favorite songs together and then hearing a short devotional, whether convicting or encouraging, from our Dorm Mom.
When people graduate from college, they are often asked if they "miss it" {at least I'm asked that!}. Of course there are some aspects I don't miss, but memories like this one make me treasure and yes, even miss, the time I spent in college.


Joys are flowing like a river,
Since the Comforter has come;
He abides with us forever,
Makes the trusting heart His home.

Refrain:

Blessed quietness, holy quietness,
What assurance in my soul!
On the stormy sea, He speaks peace to me,
How the billows cease to roll.

Everything is turned to gladness,
All around this glorious Guest;
Banished unbelief and sadness,
All is perfect peace and rest.

Like the rain that falls from heaven,
Like the sunlight from the sky,
So the Holy Spirit given,
Falls upon us from on high.

What a wonderful salvation,
Where we always see His face!
What a peaceful habitation!
What a quiet resting-place!

And, on a completely different note, I'm thankful for the blessed quietness here now that Baby Boo has finally gone to sleep! :)

Saturday, May 21, 2011

Taking A Walk

When the girls and I woke up this morning, it was to find the skies overcast with a threat of rain at any moment. Sure enough, a little later the skies opened up and we heard the gentle pitter-patter of a spring rain. We were a little disappointed not to go out, but held out hope that it might not rain all day.

Well, late afternoon we were delighted to see the rain let up and see enough patches of blue sky to venture out for a walk. I put Baby Boo in her stroller while the older girls put on their flip-flops...we were all excited to be heading outside! There was a touch of humidity in the air, but the breeze caressing our skin made it bearable.

It was a pleasant walk for the most part. Supergirl's incessant chattering scared away the birds and bunnies and any other wildlife lurking in the brush--only time she was speechless was when a dog started barking and she didn't know its origin! Jac did her best to not step on any worms and was scared silly when she felt herself squishing one. Baby Boo just made cooing sounds--content to be pushed along.

At one point, trees lined the sidewalk and it was exciting to see little baby leaves glisten with the earlier rainfall. On our way home, the sun was a hazy ball of fire in the west making the rising fog over the plowed fields much more visible.

Ahhh....I'm so glad spring is finally here!

Friday, May 20, 2011

Feasting Friday's {Cake Mix Cookies}

I was introduced to cake mix cookies while I was in college. I love the simplicity, and the taste is also quite good! I didn't have too many opportunities to make them though and when I went to my friend's house for spring break and her brother {or maybe I instigated it} challenged me to a contest, I accepted {I was going to bluff my way to victory}. I forget now who won, but ever since then, WCB claims that he "taught" me how to make them. So untrue.

Anyway, I made cake mix cookies tonight and added mini M&M's as a treat for the M girls.

Ingredients

1 Box of Chocolate Cake Mix
{I have found that chocolate tastes best, but white is alright if you add chocolate chips}
2 Eggs
1 tsp Vanilla
1/3 cup of Oil
Chocolate chips, Vanilla chips, PB chips, M&M's,.....you can be creative and come up with lots of different combinations-- or just have it plain.

Directions

Preheat oven to 350. Mix eggs, vanilla and oil; add cake mix. Stir in any extra ingredient(s). Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls {I use a mini ice cream scoop} onto cookie sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes.

Cool {if you can wait that long:} and eat!
Super yummy.



Thursday, May 19, 2011

List, A

:: Today we had an interested family come visit our school. The children's ages vary, so almost all of us teachers had them in class for a little bit.

:: I felt bad for my kids because they all became flustered and shy--this was the first time we've had people in class with us.

:: I have found--after having my evenings and weekends relatively "kid" free since the start of the year--that taking care of the M girls {while their parents and ULC go down to Virginia for competition} is both exhausting and a refreshing change from same old every day things.

:: While technically we have school until June 2, my class finished TODAY! The next four days of school will primarily be to get ready for kindergarten graduation!!

:: My brother had his birthday on the 10th of this month. He became a teenager. My Mum had her "fake" birthday this month too--on the 7th. She is 36.

Stop reading already.. no.. stop... Stoooop.




Is it so interesting? See? it's not! You're just reading because there's words! Why are you reading? Yes, I'm enjoying this. I'll stop now. Ok.. I'll stop as soon as you stop reading. See how well that works? Perfect...































....You're still reading...
 
:: G'night everyone! :)

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

SP/PC Week~ Pacific Garden Mission Tour


Please allow me to share some pictures of when I visited the Pacific Garden Mission in Chicago.

A Place of Refuge

Since 1877, Pacific Garden Mission has been a refuge. Millions weary of struggling through life's storms, have come to the "Old Lighthouse” seeking food, shelter, clothing, medical, and dental care.

They also came seeking the answer to life’s struggles. They are offered the answer: life through faith in Jesus Christ.

Mission Garden Statement




The architect wanted to bring some of the "outside" in, so there are streetlights in the hallways and lots of pipes. I didn't really expect the building to look that way, and although I really like all the windows, I don't care for the other amenities.

The cafeteria.

One of the many hallways.

Donated clothes.

Where "Unshackled" is performed/aired.


Greenhouse for the men growing some vegetables.

Ladies greenhouse for flowers and other plants.

Monday, May 16, 2011

Monday Moments {A Field Day}

Back in January, our school was going to head over to the local ice skating rink for an afternoon of fun, and to make it easy, the older students were supposed to go one week and the younger grades the following week. Good idea, right? It worked alright for the big kids, but before the little guys got to go, our area had several days of warm temperatures causing snow to melt and the ice become slushy. Needless to say, the younger kids got gypped out of an afternoon of no school.

So, it was with great excitement that we {teachers and students alike} greeted the cloudless, brisk sunny day--Field Trip Day!!

We began our trip with a bowling game. We had the place to ourselves, so there were about 4 players for each row. The kids had so much fun! I had my two boys, Bear and Superman, and it was a pretty close game. Superman is super competitive, so I let him win ;) Not really--he actually played really well. I was just glad to have come second--making it just by a hair.

Maybe if I had used their bowling "technique", I would have come in first!


Bear


Superman won with a total of 106 points. I got 88 and Bear got 84.


Peanut. She was so fast that I barely got any pictures of her.


Beans had a lot of fun, surprisingly, because she's not much of a sports person.


Bear finally decided to let go of his ball :D

After we finished bowling, we ate some pizza for lunch. Then a few more wanted to play another round, so I let my kids play Leap Frog--it was hilarious. Seriously--I have not laughed so hard in a long, long time.

Once we left the bowling alley, we headed to the local park and let the kids run wild. We played on swings, merry-go-rounds {with us teachers praying all the while that none of them would get sick!}, see-saw's, digging in the sandbox, throwing Frisbees and footballs, and a pick-up game of baseball. We spent about three hours at the park and it was just glorious to be out in the sun and fresh air after being cooped up indoors all winter. Afterwards, Pastor treated all of us with an ice cream cone from McDonald's before heading back towards school.

On the way, we dropped off Beans {who, if you remember, lives on a dairy farm} and got to see some baby calves and kittens. One baby calf had just been born that morning! It was neat to hear their "mooo's" as it differentiated by age.



 One student let this calf suck on his hand! He thought it was just the neatest thing and tried to get me to do it. The only thing I said? Yuck!


 

We all had such a wonderful time--great foreshadowing of the next couple weeks as we wind down our school year!

Sunday, May 15, 2011

Surrender

All to Jesus I surrender;
All to Him I freely give;
I will ever love and trust Him,
In His presence daily live.

Refrain:

I surrender all,
I surrender all;
All to Thee, my blessed Savior,
I surrender all.

All to Jesus I surrender;
Humbly at His feet I bow,
Worldly pleasures all forsaken;
Take me, Jesus, take me now.

All to Jesus I surrender;
Make me, Savior, wholly Thine;
Let me feel the Holy Spirit,
Truly know that Thou art mine.

All to Jesus I surrender;
Lord, I give myself to Thee;
Fill me with Thy love and power;
Let Thy blessing fall on me.

All to Jesus I surrender;
Now I feel the sacred flame.
Oh, the joy of full salvation!
Glory, glory, to His Name!

Judson W. Van DeVenter, 1896

Saturday, May 14, 2011

Life After Death

Today we had a memorial service for a gentleman who recently lost his battle with cancer.

It seems that more and more, this word cancer keeps cropping up everywhere.

Mr. S was told by the doctors that he had about 3 months to live. I'm sure that he had thoughts about death, but more importantly, what would happen after death.

Being given a death sentence sure has a way of making people face the reality of there being an afterlife. I think in circumstances such as these, God--in His grace--is giving a sinner a last chance to accept His gift of salvation.

This man was not a member of our church--one of his sons comes--so I really did not know him. But, you know what? I will see him one day in Heaven. Because he received the grace of God and called on Jesus for salvation. And through his death, over 100 people who came to his memorial service heard the same Gospel that was told to him--some for the first time. And people were once again given the opportunity  to decide what they were going to do with Jesus. Some perhaps will shrug it off and say, "Ah, I'm young yet". Others will go on believing how they always have, blinded to the Truth. Some will give it deep thought until the business of life crowds in and they forget about it. And one or two might get saved. Regardless, the Word of God has been planted in their hearts and minds, and God promises that "it will not return void".

God is not willing that any should perish, and in His grace He calls to sinners--at whatever age, and whatever stage in a person's life.

What will YOU do with Jesus?

Friday, May 13, 2011

When My Heart Stopped

While pressing the refresh button on blogger last night to see if it was up and running, I called home and talked to my family.

This in turn got me thinking about my little sister, Ruth. Who, by the way, is my favorite. Now before you go telling me that I shouldn't have favorites, I will remind you of two things. They are neither my children {although at times I treat them as such}, nor are they my students, so there is no law about favoritism. Secondly Ruth is everyone's favorite, so it is a win-win situation in my family :)

Besides, don't tell me you don't have a "favorite" sibling--especially if you come from a big family. It's just natural that certain children, because of their personalities/temperament gravitate towards each other. Not that you love your other siblings any less--it's just a stronger closeness.

Anyhow.

Ruth was born about 3 weeks into my freshmen year of college. And because of the surgeries and recuperation she had to do her first year, my Mum was really protective of her. Therefore it wasn't until the summer after my sophomore year that my Mum finally relented to my begging to take Ruth to the store with me.

By now she was a rambunctious {and very smart} almost three year old and so I thought she would enjoy a trip into town. I got her all buckled up in her full sized booster seat and we set off. I popped in a CD and would glance back often exchanging smiles and winks. Ruth did not speak very clearly, so there was not much conversing.

I turned onto the busy country road and while accelerating to come up to speed, I happened to glance back at Ruth. Just in time to see her hand reach for the door handle and pull it open. It happened in a split second. My heart stopped within me as a visions of my sweet sister tumbling out of the car and being killed flashed through my brain. I immediately reached one hand behind me to hold the seat while breaking and pulling off to the side of the road.

I wanted to shower my sister with hugs and kisses, but I knew that I had to impress on her to never do something like that again. So, we had us a little "Tough Love" session before I squeezed her little body in relief. I was so incredibly grateful that God had kept her safe! And that she was buckled in!

It took a little bit before my heart went back to normal and we resumed our short trip to the store. This time I made all the doors were locked and I moved Ruth's booster seat to the middle. I wasn't taking any more chances!

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

What I'm Reading



Last week I picked up Attorney David Gibbs book, Fighting for Dear Life: The Untold Story of Terri Schiavo and What It Means for All of Us.

Here are some of my thoughts on the first half of this battle between life and death book that I have read:

Who is in charge of life? Of death? Who chooses who is fit enough to live, and who is better off {for society} dead? Does a mother have the right to kill {abort} the baby within her womb? Can a doctor who has taken the Hippocrates oath aid in "mercy" killing? Can a judge order the death of someone who is not a felon? Is there no sanctity for life?

People were up in arms about the government being involved in a family issue {of which it was not once Michael Schiavo went to court} and yet they want government handouts?

Has the line between government involvement and family/individual privacy become so blurred that people don't know how to stand for right, or is it that people twist the constitution to fit their own views?

How was it possible that the President and Congress could not overrule the lowest court system to keep Terri's feeding tube in?

What about the fact that people--including doctors and hospital personnel--were threatened if they helped Terri at all? Why did that not raise HUGE red flags in the minds of people?

How is it that Judge George Greer issued the death of Terri based on hearsay? He had no evidence because he never went to see her and yet he ruled "[Terri] is unconscious, unaware, and without cognition"; conditions that her family {and others who saw her} deny.

You know what is so crazy? Michael had an offer of $1 MILLION dollars to let Bob and Mary Schindler care for their daughter and he {Michael} could go on with his life. He turned it down because "this is not about money...I love her" and yet he was living with another woman during this time--and he had two kids by her. But of course, since he already had $1.2 million from the medical malpractice settlement, he didn't need anymore. So why could he just not have let the Schindler's be their daughter's guardian?

Injustice. Senslessness. Irony. Deploring. Helplessness. Abiding faith. Deep love. Compassion.
Fight for justice.

These are just a few words that describe what I think of this case between life and death. There is a lot more, but I want to finish the book so I have a complete picture before writing any more on it.

I'll leave you with a quote from the book:

The measure of a civilization is how we treat the weak, the dependent, the helpless, and the ill.
Dr. Laura Schlessinger

How is our society doing?

Monday, May 9, 2011

Monday Moments {My Weekend}

On Friday I went to the next town over and met up with my friends from church. We had a splendid time at a local cafe, and then visiting some thrift stores. We were also able to pop in at the library--one of my favorite places :)

On Saturday, I joined Crazy Lady who was heading to a speak at a Ladies Luncheon in a church a couple hours away. By the time we got there, I was kicking myself for agreeing to go; the only person I knew was CL, and y'all know just how much I love meeting new people. But, you know what? I enjoyed very much talking to the ladies at my table! It wasn't too bad after I got over the initial "bump" of introductions :)
The Pastor and his wife were gracious and kind--she was super sweet! I really liked her and I enjoyed the time I spent at their church.

Sunday was Mother's Day, and since I'm far away from my Mum and Marsh is away from hers, we were invited to have lunch with the same family I was with on Friday! They were so sweet to think of us! After eating a delicious meal and visiting for the better part of two hours, Marsh, V, and I headed to the lake for a quick walk.

This was an interesting flowering? tree. I love taking macro shots!



{This one is of V while enjoying the lake view}


{This one is of Peanut, because it's cute. And I had fun photoshoppin' it :}


{Yellow Roses--favorite color & one of my favorite flowers!}

Sunday, May 8, 2011

Molding A Masterpiece

I know this song is referring to God working on us as Christians making us more like His Son, Jesus Christ; in that light, I would like to say I'm thankful to God for the Mum He gave me and how she {alongside my Dad} worked and prayed to instill character and a love for God in me when I was young. I'm also grateful that even though I'm "out of the house and gone", they are the same--caring, loving, helping....not just as parents, but as friends.

I love you, Mum!



Saturday, May 7, 2011

Proverbs 31

I remember this passage was taught in my Christian Home class during college. Not much later, the dean of students spoke on it {I think in chapel, but my memory is a little fuzzy so I'm not sure}.
Although they used the same passage, they both had different points. Good points that made me think, "This passage is not just for mother's everywhere, but for every woman young or old. This a pattern--a guide that i can use to prepare myself for the future!".

And, of course, when I read this passage, it also reminds me of my Mum :)


Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.

The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.
She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.
She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.
She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar.
She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.
She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.
She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.
She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.
She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.
She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.
She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.
She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.
Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.
She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.
Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.
She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.
She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.
Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.
Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.
Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.
Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.

Proverbs 31: 10-31

Friday, May 6, 2011

Feasting Friday's {Coffee Cake}

Before the clock strikes midnight, I wanted to give you this coffee cake recipe I used tonight. Having a streak of not following recipes, I kinda created a variation. I best like cooking/baking by using a recipe as a springboard to creating something new. Most often it doesn't work out too well, but sometimes I hit gold :)

Anyway, I hope you enjoy this recipe!


Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour

3/4 cup white sugar

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup butter

1 egg

3/4 cup milk, or as needed

1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

{Streusel Topping}

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

2/3 cup white sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 cup butter

Directions


1.Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch pan. Make the streusel topping: In a medium bowl, combine 1/4 cup flour, 2/3 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.

2.In a large bowl, combine 2 cups flour, 3/4 cup sugar, baking powder and salt. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Crack an egg into a measuring cup and then fill add milk to make 1 cup. Stir in vanilla. Pour into crumb mixture and mix just until moistened. Spread into prepared pan. Sprinkle top with streusel.

3.Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Allow to cool.


Thursday, May 5, 2011

More of SB/PC Week

Except for a brief time {maybe a month} of listening to one Shania Twain song with a co-worker {of which I'm not proud to say}, I've not been attracted to the world's music. I didn't understand how people could enjoy the loud, offensive rock and roll that just grated on my ear drums--it was so obnoxious. I thought listening to rap was pointless for how in the world could you understand the words spewing out of their mouth's? I had an aversion to breathy singers and those who looked like they were swallowing the microphone whole. None of it was appealing.
Whether it was because I was too lazy to decipher the words, or I was sheltered as a child, I know for sure that God kept watch over me and He was gracious to me because I love music. I could sit all day and listen to someone play on the piano. I could sit for hours and take in orchestra music. I love singing hymns whether to a CD while driving in the car, or in worship and praise to God with fellow believers in church.

Classical music and sacred hymns are what I listen to. In my sophomore year, while on our way to a college activity, a senior once asked me what my favorite music was. When I said classical music or hymns, he gave a derisive snort and said, "Come on. I won't tell." What about pop, or rock? Soft rock or maybe even country? I remember feeling like a small bug, but repeated with quiet conviction and surety, "No, just classical and hymns."

I remember we didn't talk much after that--but really, it wasn't like we had anything in common!

So, when Dr. Cloud taught on music--the dangers and philosophies and such, I was like a sponge soakin' the water.

Sure, I don't listen to "bad music", but why? Because I don't like how it sounds? Because I grew up listening and singing mainly just hymns? Because I was told not to listen to worldly music?

Yes to all. But, if someone wanted to know why "that" music was wrong, I would be hard-pressed to give an answer. I've never been called on for answers, but if someone did, just what would I tell them?

And if that's not enough, Contemporary Christian music is the "middle" ground--not so stuffy like the old hymns of the faith, and yet not so "out there" as the music in the world. To be honest, I remember hearing the term CCM as a youth, but I didn't really know what it was. I didn't know the big names in the industry back then, and I didn't know them when Dr. Cloud was talking about them on Tuesday and Wednesday morning of PC week.

I did know the churches he was saying that used the same words and beat as the CCM crowd. For example, he showed a clip in which West Coast college singing group sang an original song by Casting Crowns, and transitioning it to the actual Casting Crown group singing it. The West Coast college singing group sang the same song with the same beat and rhythm! The only thing missing was a drum set and movement of bodies.

A statement he made also made me sit up in shock. Did you know the song, "How Deep the Father's Love for Us" by Stuart Townend was written so that it could be a stepping stone between hymns and contemporary-so-called-Christian-music? By the author's own words. That was his goal--to slowly pull more people into using contemporary style of music in churches.

I have sung that song many times and I had no idea. Ignorance is not bliss, especially when one is in the wrong. It is also not good that I, along with many others, have no knowledge of what is going on in churches around us. Just holding the line with no offensive is not good enough. Attacks are being infiltrated through and we are weakening--whether it be for lack of knowledge, or because our churches are accepting a change in music standards.

Once you know something, you have a responsibility to do something with that knowledge. I know that my eyes have begun to open and I'm so thankful for the warnings Dr. Cloud has sounded. I'm grateful for how God has used him in the past and continues to use him today.

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Beans

Beans lives on a dairy farm with her parents and she is always telling me about the baby calves and their mamma's; the horses; dogs; and the latest--her cat, Furball had kittens. She was so excited about them! I asked her if she was going to bring them into class for show-and-tell, since it will be a while yet before she can, I let her borrow my camera so she could take pictures to show the class.







I love having Beans in my class. One of the things I love about teaching is seeing the progress a student makes--not only in their academics, but also their character and spiritual life. Having taught the same group of students these last two years, I see even more of a difference.

Last year, I remember the day blends finally clicked for Beans. After weeks of frustration we all celebrated in her success and she went from dreading phonics class to asking if it was time to read our blends. This year she absolutely loves to take home her reading books. For example, I wasn't planning on giving the kids any work during springbreak because...well, they needed a break from school! Anyway, the afternoon before our week off, I had my students read to me out of their new books and Beans wanted to take hers home and read it during break. I thought they would all be jumping for joy at the thought of no homework, so I told her that if she remembered to ask me on Sunday for her book, I would give it to her. Sure enough, Sunday after church, Beans came to me asking, "May I have my book?". She is one determined child, but I am so glad that she has a love of learning and reading.

She is that way with all of her classes. Because she can be a perfectionist, Beans sometimes lets her frustration get the best of her and we have been learning about balance. I certainly don't want her to think that it is "bad" to make mistakes.

She has grown so much, and as she graduates this year I hope she will keep pushing herself to do her best. I hope this passion for learning grows and she doesn't become nonchalant in the years ahead.