After picking up toys scatter all over the floor in the living room, dining room, kitchen, and formal sitting room, I vacuumed the floors because everywhere I stepped were crumbs from the weekend snacks and meals!
While vacuuming the kitchen floor, my pinky got caught between the vacuum handle and a cabinet. Immediate fiery pain shot through the tip of my offended pinky and I yowled "ow!!" The very next thought that crossed my mind was, "You should praise the Lord in all circumstances." My very conscious response to that thought was, "No way, Lord!! I'm not going to praise you for hurting my pinky! Really? Today, of all days?" At this point, I have already cleaned up 2 episodes of vomitting from my younger son, Nathan (by the way, his birthday is tomorrow!!!) as well as 2 overflowing massive diarrheas that required a bath afterwards and washing the clothes and blanket that I had laid him on top of.
So as I kept vacuuming, fuming a little bit in my rebellion and absolute refusal to be grateful that I had hurt my pinky, the following thoughts went through my head. I had to share it:
Why should I be grateful that I hurt my pinky? Well, I am grateful that I have a pinky to hurt, and that all that happened was that it got squished. Somewhere, some person may be having his/her pinky amputated for whatever reason: Diabetes, accident, torture. Maybe some person not only lost their pinky, but their whole hand or arm. Or maybe their pinky was resorbed because of leprosy.
Thinking of leprosy and diabetes, I am thankful that I have the sensation of pain. I am grateful that the pain is an early warning that I have done something to my body that could cause damage to it and should not be repeated, if possible.
And so I am truly thankful and grateful to the Lord for the pain that I experienced when my pinky got squashed.
And on those same lines, I am grateful that I have the opportunity to stay home with my sick little baby boy; that I have a wonderful son whom I love and who is so cute and adorable; that Nathan is so obedient and loving; that he has been healthy the majority of his life and this is just a temporary illness. Thank-you, Lord. Thank-you, Jesus. Thank-you, my Father in Heaven. Thank-you for all the blessings that you have poured on me.
Monday, September 17, 2012
Sunday, July 29, 2012
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"The Harbinger" by Jonathan Cahn
So, I know I sent this as an e-mail to just about every contact in my e-mail. However, I just wanted to post it in my blog, too. Also, here is a link to a video that you could watch. It's an interview with Jonathan Cahn and Pastor Jimmy Evans: http://www.tfc.org/sermon/message:america-and-biblical-prophecy
I feel compelled by our Lord Jesus to write this e-mail calling all Christian Believers to pray for our Nation to RETURN to God! Some of you may be thinking, "but what can one person do?" I don't know what one person can do, but I know what God can do and I know that I need to be obedient.
In 1 Thessalonians 5:20-21, the Bible tells us "Do not despise prophecies, 21 but test everything; hold fast what is good."
I believe that I have read the truth about our great Nation, the United States of America. If you want to see the end to terrorism and if you want to see economic recovery to our nation, I have come to believe the only solution is this:
In 2 Chronicles 7:14, God tells us "If my people who are called by My Name humble themselves, and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land."
God is calling all God-fearing, Jesus Christ believers and followers to stop being apathetic and passive, but to fall on our faces, humbly recognize that our country has pushed God out of our public lives and squares, and that we desperately need a return to Him in every way imaginable. We need to pray, pray, pray!!
Now, what is my source? I encourage everyone to read "The Harbinger", by Jonathan Cahn, a messianic rabbi from the Jerusalem Center-Beth Israel Congregation in Wayne, N.J. Not only do I encourage you to read it, but I encourage you to test and research everything that he writes about to make sure it's true. I have done this myself, so I feel comfortable telling you to read it for yourself.
SPOILER ALERT!! If you plan to read the book and don't want to know anything else, then continue reading at your own risk. But if you don't want to read the book yourself and just want me to give you a summary for why I think it's valid, then keep reading:
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Premise of book: Other than ancient Israel, there has only been one other nation in the history of the world that was conceived and dedicated to the will of God from its conception: America.
When ancient Israel became a nation, at the dedication of the Temple, King Solomon prayed for the Nation and consecrated it to the Lord. Later that night, God spoke to Solomon (2 Chron. 7) and promised him and the nation great success if they remained faithful to Him. But if they turned from Him and served other idols, then He would withdraw His blessings and hand of protection in an effort to call His people to repentance and to return to Him.
Well, Israel did turn away from God. The first thing that God allowed to happen in an attempt to get Israel's attention occurred in 732 B.C.: the Assyrians breached the nation's defenses, invading and wreaking some havoc. By the way, the Assyrians were the "terrorists" of that time. Israel's leaders' response was to say, in Isaiah 9:10: "The bricks have fallen, but we will build with dressed stones; the sycamores have been cut down, but we will put cedars in their place.” God notes in the verse prior to this that the leaders said this "in pride and in arrogance of heart."
Now fast forward to September 11, 2001. Is God calling us back and was this His first attempt just as the Assyrian breech in 732 B.C. was?
9/11 - Breach in our defenses - Terrorists were able to hijack a couple planes.
9/11 - Twin towers fall - "the bricks have fallen"
2004 - a 20-ton rectangular block of quarried Adirondack granite was laid at Ground Zero, later removed to be the symbolic cornerstone of the Freedom Tower (now 1 WTC) - "we will build with dressed stones"
9/11 - debris from falling North tower hits and strikes down a sycamore tree located on the periphery of Ground Zero at the NW corner of St. Paul's Chapel churchyard - "the sycamores have been cut down"
11/22/2003 - "Tree of Hope," a 21' Norway spruce, is donated by Imperatore Nurseries and planted in same place that the felled sycamore tree had been - "we will put cedars in their place"
God had commanded the Israelites in Leviticus 25: "When you come into the land that I give you, the land shall keep a Sabbath to the Lord. 3 For six years you shall sow your field, and for six years you shall prune your vineyard and gather in its fruits, 4 but in the seventh year there shall be a Sabbath of solemn rest for the land, a Sabbath to the Lord. You shall not sow your field or prune your vineyard. 5 You shall not reap what grows of itself in your harvest, or gather the grapes of your undressed vine. It shall be a year of solemn rest for the land."
Seven years after 9/11, on September 29, 2008, after the government decided not to bail out Lehman Brothers (9.12.2008), it then chose not to pass a bill proposing the largest government bailout in American history. A financial analyst summed it up by saying that it was this one event, more than any other, that shattered market confidence and led to the economic crisis we now know. And on the Hebrew calendar, September 29, 2008 was the 29th day of Elul, the Hebrew Shemitah, when all debts were to be cancelled.
But how does this relate to 9/11? Well, immediately following 9/11, the New York Stock Exchange was shut down for 6 days. When it reopened 7 days later on September 17, 2001, the stock market had a crash that was the greatest loss in its history up until that day. The Federal Reserve responded by slashing interest rates and suppressing it for many years, even below inflation. This led to the ability to give mortgages and loans that banks would not previously have approved. Also, the government created The Department of Homeland Security and "the War on Terrorism" started. All of these factors led to massive spending that eventually led to the house of cards that fell in 2008. Were all these efforts wrong? In and of themselves, these actions are not evil and wrong. However, they did not address the fundamental problem of our nation: a need to RETURN to God the Father and Jesus Christ. We tried to "fix" our problem with human efforts instead of turning back to the Lord, which was what He was calling us to do.
Is there hope for America? Yes!! Look at Ninevah. God's character is that He is "a gracious God and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love, and relenting from disaster." (Jonah 4:2)
So if you're still reading this e-mail and you don't believe or understand any of what I've written about and you'd like to talk about it, I'm happy to answer any questions anyone has. But let me just add this: God's desire and wish is for no one to perish. He is loving and merciful. He wants all people to be saved and that includes YOU. Jesus Christ's salvation is for ANYONE who believes.
I feel compelled by our Lord Jesus to write this e-mail calling all Christian Believers to pray for our Nation to RETURN to God! Some of you may be thinking, "but what can one person do?" I don't know what one person can do, but I know what God can do and I know that I need to be obedient.
In 1 Thessalonians 5:20-21, the Bible tells us "Do not despise prophecies, 21 but test everything; hold fast what is good."
I believe that I have read the truth about our great Nation, the United States of America. If you want to see the end to terrorism and if you want to see economic recovery to our nation, I have come to believe the only solution is this:
In 2 Chronicles 7:14, God tells us "If my people who are called by My Name humble themselves, and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land."
God is calling all God-fearing, Jesus Christ believers and followers to stop being apathetic and passive, but to fall on our faces, humbly recognize that our country has pushed God out of our public lives and squares, and that we desperately need a return to Him in every way imaginable. We need to pray, pray, pray!!
Now, what is my source? I encourage everyone to read "The Harbinger", by Jonathan Cahn, a messianic rabbi from the Jerusalem Center-Beth Israel Congregation in Wayne, N.J. Not only do I encourage you to read it, but I encourage you to test and research everything that he writes about to make sure it's true. I have done this myself, so I feel comfortable telling you to read it for yourself.
SPOILER ALERT!! If you plan to read the book and don't want to know anything else, then continue reading at your own risk. But if you don't want to read the book yourself and just want me to give you a summary for why I think it's valid, then keep reading:
***************************************************************************
***************************************************************************
***************************************************************************
Premise of book: Other than ancient Israel, there has only been one other nation in the history of the world that was conceived and dedicated to the will of God from its conception: America.
When ancient Israel became a nation, at the dedication of the Temple, King Solomon prayed for the Nation and consecrated it to the Lord. Later that night, God spoke to Solomon (2 Chron. 7) and promised him and the nation great success if they remained faithful to Him. But if they turned from Him and served other idols, then He would withdraw His blessings and hand of protection in an effort to call His people to repentance and to return to Him.
Well, Israel did turn away from God. The first thing that God allowed to happen in an attempt to get Israel's attention occurred in 732 B.C.: the Assyrians breached the nation's defenses, invading and wreaking some havoc. By the way, the Assyrians were the "terrorists" of that time. Israel's leaders' response was to say, in Isaiah 9:10: "The bricks have fallen, but we will build with dressed stones; the sycamores have been cut down, but we will put cedars in their place.” God notes in the verse prior to this that the leaders said this "in pride and in arrogance of heart."
Now fast forward to September 11, 2001. Is God calling us back and was this His first attempt just as the Assyrian breech in 732 B.C. was?
9/11 - Breach in our defenses - Terrorists were able to hijack a couple planes.
9/11 - Twin towers fall - "the bricks have fallen"
2004 - a 20-ton rectangular block of quarried Adirondack granite was laid at Ground Zero, later removed to be the symbolic cornerstone of the Freedom Tower (now 1 WTC) - "we will build with dressed stones"
9/11 - debris from falling North tower hits and strikes down a sycamore tree located on the periphery of Ground Zero at the NW corner of St. Paul's Chapel churchyard - "the sycamores have been cut down"
11/22/2003 - "Tree of Hope," a 21' Norway spruce, is donated by Imperatore Nurseries and planted in same place that the felled sycamore tree had been - "we will put cedars in their place"
But what was America's leaders' response? We had 3 witnesses. Deuteronomy 19:15 says "Only on the evidence of two witnesses or of three witnesses shall a charge be established."
Witness 1: September 12, 2001 - then Senate Majority Leader Tom Daschle, on the senate floor of capital hill, responds to 9/11 with a speech. He says: "America will emerge from this tragedy as we have emerged from all adversity - united and strong. Nothing...nothing can replace the losses of those who have suffered. I know there is only the smallest measure of inspiration that can be taken from this devastation. But there is a passage in the Bible from Isaiah that speaks to all of us at times like this. 'the bricks have fallen down, but we will rebuild with dressed stone; the fig trees have been felled, but we will replace them with cedars."
Witness 2: September 11, 2004 - Vice Presidential candidate John Edwards, in a speech to the Congressional Black Caucus, says: "Today, on this day of remembrance and mourning, we have the Lord's Word to get us through: 'The bricks have fallen, but we will build with dressed stones; the sycamores have been cut down, but we will put cedars in their place."
Witness 3: February 24, 2009 - new President Obama enters chamber of House of Representatives, and in his speech, says "But while our economy may be weakened and our confidence shaken; though we are living through difficult and uncertain times, tonight I want every American to know this - WE WILL REBUILD, we will recover."
But is there proof that GOD is calling us BACK to Himself?
1) the Ground Zero Cross, also known as the World Trade Center Cross - 20' tall group of steel beams found amidst the debris of the World Trade Center, thought to be from the North Tower.
2) St. Paul's chapel - part of Ground Zero, but miraculously survived any damage other than one cracked (not broken) window, shielded by the Sycamore tree. But what is even more amazing is this: Did you know that it was at this chapel that George Washington led the first members of the Senate and House of Representatives in prayer to consecrate the new nation's future into the hands of God on the day of his inauguration, April 30, 1789? Did you also know that the actual physical site of Ground Zero all used to be land that belonged to the little church? Thus, America's ground of consecration IS Ground Zero.
But wait, there's more! Is the economic crisis of 2008 directly related to 9/11 and was it God's 2nd attempt to get our attention? Keep reading:
Witness 1: September 12, 2001 - then Senate Majority Leader Tom Daschle, on the senate floor of capital hill, responds to 9/11 with a speech. He says: "America will emerge from this tragedy as we have emerged from all adversity - united and strong. Nothing...nothing can replace the losses of those who have suffered. I know there is only the smallest measure of inspiration that can be taken from this devastation. But there is a passage in the Bible from Isaiah that speaks to all of us at times like this. 'the bricks have fallen down, but we will rebuild with dressed stone; the fig trees have been felled, but we will replace them with cedars."
Witness 2: September 11, 2004 - Vice Presidential candidate John Edwards, in a speech to the Congressional Black Caucus, says: "Today, on this day of remembrance and mourning, we have the Lord's Word to get us through: 'The bricks have fallen, but we will build with dressed stones; the sycamores have been cut down, but we will put cedars in their place."
Witness 3: February 24, 2009 - new President Obama enters chamber of House of Representatives, and in his speech, says "But while our economy may be weakened and our confidence shaken; though we are living through difficult and uncertain times, tonight I want every American to know this - WE WILL REBUILD, we will recover."
But is there proof that GOD is calling us BACK to Himself?
1) the Ground Zero Cross, also known as the World Trade Center Cross - 20' tall group of steel beams found amidst the debris of the World Trade Center, thought to be from the North Tower.
2) St. Paul's chapel - part of Ground Zero, but miraculously survived any damage other than one cracked (not broken) window, shielded by the Sycamore tree. But what is even more amazing is this: Did you know that it was at this chapel that George Washington led the first members of the Senate and House of Representatives in prayer to consecrate the new nation's future into the hands of God on the day of his inauguration, April 30, 1789? Did you also know that the actual physical site of Ground Zero all used to be land that belonged to the little church? Thus, America's ground of consecration IS Ground Zero.
But wait, there's more! Is the economic crisis of 2008 directly related to 9/11 and was it God's 2nd attempt to get our attention? Keep reading:
God had commanded the Israelites in Leviticus 25: "When you come into the land that I give you, the land shall keep a Sabbath to the Lord. 3 For six years you shall sow your field, and for six years you shall prune your vineyard and gather in its fruits, 4 but in the seventh year there shall be a Sabbath of solemn rest for the land, a Sabbath to the Lord. You shall not sow your field or prune your vineyard. 5 You shall not reap what grows of itself in your harvest, or gather the grapes of your undressed vine. It shall be a year of solemn rest for the land."
Seven years after 9/11, on September 29, 2008, after the government decided not to bail out Lehman Brothers (9.12.2008), it then chose not to pass a bill proposing the largest government bailout in American history. A financial analyst summed it up by saying that it was this one event, more than any other, that shattered market confidence and led to the economic crisis we now know. And on the Hebrew calendar, September 29, 2008 was the 29th day of Elul, the Hebrew Shemitah, when all debts were to be cancelled.
But how does this relate to 9/11? Well, immediately following 9/11, the New York Stock Exchange was shut down for 6 days. When it reopened 7 days later on September 17, 2001, the stock market had a crash that was the greatest loss in its history up until that day. The Federal Reserve responded by slashing interest rates and suppressing it for many years, even below inflation. This led to the ability to give mortgages and loans that banks would not previously have approved. Also, the government created The Department of Homeland Security and "the War on Terrorism" started. All of these factors led to massive spending that eventually led to the house of cards that fell in 2008. Were all these efforts wrong? In and of themselves, these actions are not evil and wrong. However, they did not address the fundamental problem of our nation: a need to RETURN to God the Father and Jesus Christ. We tried to "fix" our problem with human efforts instead of turning back to the Lord, which was what He was calling us to do.
Is there hope for America? Yes!! Look at Ninevah. God's character is that He is "a gracious God and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love, and relenting from disaster." (Jonah 4:2)
So if you're still reading this e-mail and you don't believe or understand any of what I've written about and you'd like to talk about it, I'm happy to answer any questions anyone has. But let me just add this: God's desire and wish is for no one to perish. He is loving and merciful. He wants all people to be saved and that includes YOU. Jesus Christ's salvation is for ANYONE who believes.
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Reading, Swimming, and Fun All Around
So much has happened since the last time I blogged! We did a week of Vacation Bible School with our church, WUBC. Michael & Nathan had fun and the bonus was that when we would get home each day, we were so exhausted and wiped out, we would eat lunch and nap all afternoon!
I finally decided to buy an inflatable swimming pool for the boys to play in. My parents had purchased one last summer, and the boys love playing in theirs every time we would go to their house. I had a water table, so I figured that was "enough" as far as playing with water. But the deciding factor came the day that I filled up their water table for them and took a bucket of water to the front yard to water my new lemon tree. I returned 2 minutes later to find both boys standing 3 feet off the concrete ground inside the 3' diameter water table (with 2 different levels) jostling each other for the tiny space! I immediately yanked them both off, stuck them in my car, and drove straight to Walmart. I haven't regreted the purchase since! When it's all hot and sweaty in the Houston summer heat, we all jump in and splash around for a while.
3 days ago, we found this baby black bellied whistling duck in our backyard. At the time, I was unaware that he was only 1 day old or just born! Since it was 7pm at night, I called the Nature Discovery Center near our house and left them a message. We then put him in this newspaper lined box, named him Jumpy (because he could literally jump a foot or more high), and put little containers of water, torn greens, and crushed cereal in with him. We put him under a warm light and duck-sat him overnight. The next day, Michael and I took him to the Nature Discovery Center, but because he is a protected species, they sent us to the Texas Wildlife Rehabilitation Center (near I-10 & 610). The TWRC took little Jumpy, where they will take care of him and raise him until he is old enough to survive on his own, when they will then release him back into the wild. Thanks TWRC! Of course, I haven't heard the end of "I want to see Jumpy." "Where's Jumpy?" for the last 2 days!
For the past 2 months now, Michael has been learning to put letters together to spell words. While I knew the concept was getting through, I didn't know how much of it was really him reading, or just recognizing the letter pattern and saying the word that he already knew. But today, playing with his foam letters, I started to form different words for him, even words that I knew he didn't know, or at least didn't know well (like "bog" or "sag" or "cog"), and he would sound the letters out and put the sounds together to make the words! I think he read about 25-30 different 3-letter words. He even read five 4-letter words: "clap", "slap", "flap", "camp", and "gnat" (of course I did told him the "g" was silent).
God is so good to us and our life is so full of blessings. Thank-you, Lord Jesus!
I finally decided to buy an inflatable swimming pool for the boys to play in. My parents had purchased one last summer, and the boys love playing in theirs every time we would go to their house. I had a water table, so I figured that was "enough" as far as playing with water. But the deciding factor came the day that I filled up their water table for them and took a bucket of water to the front yard to water my new lemon tree. I returned 2 minutes later to find both boys standing 3 feet off the concrete ground inside the 3' diameter water table (with 2 different levels) jostling each other for the tiny space! I immediately yanked them both off, stuck them in my car, and drove straight to Walmart. I haven't regreted the purchase since! When it's all hot and sweaty in the Houston summer heat, we all jump in and splash around for a while.
3 days ago, we found this baby black bellied whistling duck in our backyard. At the time, I was unaware that he was only 1 day old or just born! Since it was 7pm at night, I called the Nature Discovery Center near our house and left them a message. We then put him in this newspaper lined box, named him Jumpy (because he could literally jump a foot or more high), and put little containers of water, torn greens, and crushed cereal in with him. We put him under a warm light and duck-sat him overnight. The next day, Michael and I took him to the Nature Discovery Center, but because he is a protected species, they sent us to the Texas Wildlife Rehabilitation Center (near I-10 & 610). The TWRC took little Jumpy, where they will take care of him and raise him until he is old enough to survive on his own, when they will then release him back into the wild. Thanks TWRC! Of course, I haven't heard the end of "I want to see Jumpy." "Where's Jumpy?" for the last 2 days!
For the past 2 months now, Michael has been learning to put letters together to spell words. While I knew the concept was getting through, I didn't know how much of it was really him reading, or just recognizing the letter pattern and saying the word that he already knew. But today, playing with his foam letters, I started to form different words for him, even words that I knew he didn't know, or at least didn't know well (like "bog" or "sag" or "cog"), and he would sound the letters out and put the sounds together to make the words! I think he read about 25-30 different 3-letter words. He even read five 4-letter words: "clap", "slap", "flap", "camp", and "gnat" (of course I did told him the "g" was silent).
God is so good to us and our life is so full of blessings. Thank-you, Lord Jesus!
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
What I've learned about Groupon & Dealfind deals
Well, this post is me postulating what I've learned from personal experience about Groupon & Dealfind deals. Are they really deals? It depends on the offer. When it comes to online companies where I buy a voucher that can be redeemed with a physical product, I haven't had any problems or issues. But of the 3 salon/spa vouchers that I purchased, two of the 3 businesses refused to honor the voucher. The first place claimed (falsely) that I had already redeemed the voucher. Their proof was that someone had highlighted my voucher number on their list with a yellow highlighter. The second place had set up a "fake" number to call for appointments, which couldn't be reached to make an appointment at all.
Of the third place, Orchid Salon & Spa in Houston, I had one of the better spa experiences ever. My mani and pedi were done by two women who were very kind, polite, respectful, and did a really good job. My facial was done by a third woman who was also very kind and professional. I could see how if I had gone to Orchid Salon & Spa first, I would want to buy more Groupon & Dealfind spa deals.
But after looking up how Groupon & Dealfind make money on Wikipedia, I realize that spa deals are never going to be reliable. You see, the Spa/Salon agrees to sell you a $170 Groupon/Dealfind at the price of $40. But, Groupon/Dealfind takes half of that money. So the Spa/Salon receives $20 for providing you with $170 service. In this situation, the only winner is Groupon/Dealfind, who made $20 for every deal sold, but they otherwise don't provide any further service. The business, especially if it's a small business, may find itself on the losing end of the deal because they are the ones actually providing you with the service, but getting paid a pittance for their time and efforts. This may lead them to have feelings of resentment towards the customer. So the ultimate loser is the customer! I have read so many horrible reviews from Groupon/Dealfind customers about being treated rudely, being denied service (like my first experience), and having terrible experiences (bleeding and pain!).
Why am I writing this? I'm not sure, but I just want to share what my experiences have taught me if they can help even one other person. You see, I had a great experience today. It was fantastic! And I would definitely return to Orchid Salon & Spa again in the future. But if I knew from the beginning that I'd have to go through 2 bad to have 1 good, I personally do not think the trade-off is worth it. In general, it is true: You get what you pay for! And the few times that you are pleasantly surprised - well, those are amazing moments :-)
Of the third place, Orchid Salon & Spa in Houston, I had one of the better spa experiences ever. My mani and pedi were done by two women who were very kind, polite, respectful, and did a really good job. My facial was done by a third woman who was also very kind and professional. I could see how if I had gone to Orchid Salon & Spa first, I would want to buy more Groupon & Dealfind spa deals.
But after looking up how Groupon & Dealfind make money on Wikipedia, I realize that spa deals are never going to be reliable. You see, the Spa/Salon agrees to sell you a $170 Groupon/Dealfind at the price of $40. But, Groupon/Dealfind takes half of that money. So the Spa/Salon receives $20 for providing you with $170 service. In this situation, the only winner is Groupon/Dealfind, who made $20 for every deal sold, but they otherwise don't provide any further service. The business, especially if it's a small business, may find itself on the losing end of the deal because they are the ones actually providing you with the service, but getting paid a pittance for their time and efforts. This may lead them to have feelings of resentment towards the customer. So the ultimate loser is the customer! I have read so many horrible reviews from Groupon/Dealfind customers about being treated rudely, being denied service (like my first experience), and having terrible experiences (bleeding and pain!).
Why am I writing this? I'm not sure, but I just want to share what my experiences have taught me if they can help even one other person. You see, I had a great experience today. It was fantastic! And I would definitely return to Orchid Salon & Spa again in the future. But if I knew from the beginning that I'd have to go through 2 bad to have 1 good, I personally do not think the trade-off is worth it. In general, it is true: You get what you pay for! And the few times that you are pleasantly surprised - well, those are amazing moments :-)
Friday, May 11, 2012
Games Afoot
After running my first ever 5K with my dear friend, Elizabeth Valdes, Eric and I went to the Baptist Student Ministry's Annual Brunch. While we were there, we were approached by a very nice lady, who works with Methodist Hospital Systems. Well, she graciously offered us some tickets to the Astros and Cardinals game this past Sunday. We were able to take Michael & Nathan. Since they were club seats, we were also provided with some delicious ball-game fare as well as pink yoga mats!! It was super fun and I think the boys had a great experience! :-)
We had the privilege of having our Sunday School friends over for Bible Study on Monday nights this year. After we finished our study on the book of James, we decided to have a fun pizza and movie night. We adults watched "Courageous," which is a fantastic movie that really encourages fathers to be Godly men and influences on their kids. I forget what the boys watched, but they sure looked like they were enjoying their popcorn.
It is truly such a blessing for us to be allowed to host our Sunday School Bible Studies, which is an answer to our prayers. Each time I have ever moved to a new home, whether single, or now with a wonderful family, I have prayed that God would use the home to be a blessing to others, for His work and purposes, and ultimately for His glory. What a wonderful blessing for us that we have such good company regularly and Michael has the opportunity to play with his self-proclaimed best friend, Jonathan Collins!
This past Wednesday night, Michael & Nathan's choir had their end-of-the-year Spring program. As Little Praisers, they dress up as animals. Nathan got to be an adorable little zebra and Michael was a super-cute elephant. As a matter of fact, even as I type this, Michael is running around the house wearing his elephant ears and tail, grunting/trumpeting, and claiming to be a "big elephant." Ever since we made his costume on Wednesday, he has worn his little costume every day. And if he feels "hot" from running around with the hat, he takes his pants off, but leaves the costume on!
What else is going on in my life? Well, I'm going to have to get the windshield of my minivan replaced. My big strong husband won the battle with a mosquito, but unfortunately, there was some expensive collateral damage!
Michael & Nathan love riding their horse. This was one of the best buys I made at a garage sale! At first, I thought the $50 price tag was a little steep for a used toy, but it actually was in "like new" condition. While they have ridden the horse together before, this is the first time I've seen them both climb up on the horse together without the help of Eric or myself.
I have been teaching Michael how to play the piano. He's been playing the C-scale with both hands, as well as "There was a catapillar," to the tune of "99 bottles of beer on the wall."
We had the privilege of having our Sunday School friends over for Bible Study on Monday nights this year. After we finished our study on the book of James, we decided to have a fun pizza and movie night. We adults watched "Courageous," which is a fantastic movie that really encourages fathers to be Godly men and influences on their kids. I forget what the boys watched, but they sure looked like they were enjoying their popcorn.
This past Wednesday night, Michael & Nathan's choir had their end-of-the-year Spring program. As Little Praisers, they dress up as animals. Nathan got to be an adorable little zebra and Michael was a super-cute elephant. As a matter of fact, even as I type this, Michael is running around the house wearing his elephant ears and tail, grunting/trumpeting, and claiming to be a "big elephant." Ever since we made his costume on Wednesday, he has worn his little costume every day. And if he feels "hot" from running around with the hat, he takes his pants off, but leaves the costume on!
Their new favorite song:
Who is the King of the jungle?
Hoo Hoo (beating chest)
Who is the King of the sea?
Bubble bubble bubble (hands together swimming)
Who is the King of the universe? (stars with hands)
And who's the King of me? (thumbs point to self)
I'll tell you (shouted)
J-E-S-U-S, Yes!! (arms up)
He is the King of me! (thumbs point to self)
He is the King of the universe, (stars with hands)
The jungle and the sea. (beating chest + swimming hands)
Bubble bubble bubble (swimming hands); Hoo Hoo!! (beat chest)
What else is going on in my life? Well, I'm going to have to get the windshield of my minivan replaced. My big strong husband won the battle with a mosquito, but unfortunately, there was some expensive collateral damage!
Michael & Nathan love riding their horse. This was one of the best buys I made at a garage sale! At first, I thought the $50 price tag was a little steep for a used toy, but it actually was in "like new" condition. While they have ridden the horse together before, this is the first time I've seen them both climb up on the horse together without the help of Eric or myself.
I have been teaching Michael how to play the piano. He's been playing the C-scale with both hands, as well as "There was a catapillar," to the tune of "99 bottles of beer on the wall."
There was a catapillar,
He lived up in a tree.
He wiggled high; He wiggled low; He wiggled right at me.
I put him in a cupboard box
"Now don't you move," I said.
And when I looked inside there was a butterfly instead.
Oh, only God can do this.
Only God, you see.
Only God in heaven above makes butterflies for me.
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Review of "Pershing - Commander of the Great War"
Title: “Pershing – Commander of the Great War” by John Perry
This book is the story of General John J. Pershing, a U.S.
army officer who is little known, but was of caliber of George Washington,
Eisenhower, and Patton. The book
portrays him as a very strict man who demanded much of those under his command,
but this was probably what made him the general that he was, the only U.S. army
officer to be commissioned General of the Armies during his lifetime. Incidentally, George Washington is the only
other person to also be commissioned General of the Armies, but he was done so
150 years posthumously.
I found “Pershing” to be interesting, especially for a
person who normally prefers fiction.
There were moments when it got a little slow and dry, but that is to be
expected. I did not have too much of a
problem with some of the other complaints of General Pershing being described
as harsh in one moment and a kind and good person in a different
situation. To me, General Pershing came
across as being well compartmentalized in what he did, separating work from
family life and from social life. I don’t
think anyone’s perfect, so I do think it’s plausible for a good person to still
have flaws and personal struggles. It
was really impressive to me to read about all the things that Pershing
accomplished and did as a General, which I believe saved millions of soldiers
lives. I think he is definitely a General
worthy of respect and honor and more people should read this book to understand
the history of the U.S. better, because he had such a profound impact on how
the military operates and functions today, as well as the outcome of WWI and
other wars.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free
from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com>
book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review.
The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance
with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html>
: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Living Life Day By Day
Nathan is now 19 1/2 months old! He is running, jumping, climbing, and talking. He loves drinking "mkkk", sleeps with his green "pablow" (pillow) and white "eye-ger" (tiger), and copies everything his big brother does. He eats everything in sight and can literally eat all day!
Michael has discovered Nutella and loves eating a "chocolate samwich" everyday. Of course, "pasghetti" is still a staple, too. He also loves playing with his warthog and "niceroscerous". I've been teaching him how to play the piano, so he can play a "C-scale" with both hands, as well as "There was a Catepillar" to the tune of "99 bottles of ...." He does require rewards, so he's working towards earning a "Chesso Bernouli" (from Cars 2). He loves writing his letters and numbers and can count up to 100! I'm so proud of him :-). My mom, a former science teacher, has also taught him how to build a double helix with a little model she has, which he knows is a DNA ladder!
Both boys also loving jumping on Mommy & Daddy's bed. Michael assigns all of us an animal. He's usually a zebra or buffalo! Nathan just loves crashing face-forward onto the bed.
I've been training for my first 5K with my friend Elizabeth Valdes. Considering the fact that I've never run more than 10 minutes at a time in my entire life, this is a pretty big deal for me. Of course, it took 28 minutes to run 2.4 miles - I guess I won't be at goal for the race (30 minutes to run 5K), but that's ok - I'll keep exercising and maybe next time I'll be fitter and faster.
Of course, I say that, but we'll be trying for a baby girl in about a month! I think Michael & Nathan would really love a baby sister :-). Well, Michael certainly. We took him to visit his baby cousin Abigail after she was born. The boy loooved her and wanted to hold her all weekend long.
Oh, and by the way, here's the Noah's Ark Baby Blanket I made for Abigail. It took me a solid month of crochetting 2 hours a night! And even though I didn't have a pattern for the Ark, animals, clowd, or sun/rainbow, and just free-handed it, I was really happy with how it all turned out. Now, why can't I find some more time to crochet a fun blanket for my own sons?!?
My last pictures today are to celebrate the cuteness of my sweet sons!
Michael has discovered Nutella and loves eating a "chocolate samwich" everyday. Of course, "pasghetti" is still a staple, too. He also loves playing with his warthog and "niceroscerous". I've been teaching him how to play the piano, so he can play a "C-scale" with both hands, as well as "There was a Catepillar" to the tune of "99 bottles of ...." He does require rewards, so he's working towards earning a "Chesso Bernouli" (from Cars 2). He loves writing his letters and numbers and can count up to 100! I'm so proud of him :-). My mom, a former science teacher, has also taught him how to build a double helix with a little model she has, which he knows is a DNA ladder!
Both boys also loving jumping on Mommy & Daddy's bed. Michael assigns all of us an animal. He's usually a zebra or buffalo! Nathan just loves crashing face-forward onto the bed.
I've been training for my first 5K with my friend Elizabeth Valdes. Considering the fact that I've never run more than 10 minutes at a time in my entire life, this is a pretty big deal for me. Of course, it took 28 minutes to run 2.4 miles - I guess I won't be at goal for the race (30 minutes to run 5K), but that's ok - I'll keep exercising and maybe next time I'll be fitter and faster.
Of course, I say that, but we'll be trying for a baby girl in about a month! I think Michael & Nathan would really love a baby sister :-). Well, Michael certainly. We took him to visit his baby cousin Abigail after she was born. The boy loooved her and wanted to hold her all weekend long.
Even when he refused to take a nap on Day #2, he still desparately wanted to hold her that he endured the exhaustion and insisted on holding her.
On the drive up to Austin, I managed to get a few pictures of the boys in bluebonnets. Of course, this has only made me want a faster, nicer camera and learn how to do some "real" photography. In my spare time, eh?
Oh, and by the way, here's the Noah's Ark Baby Blanket I made for Abigail. It took me a solid month of crochetting 2 hours a night! And even though I didn't have a pattern for the Ark, animals, clowd, or sun/rainbow, and just free-handed it, I was really happy with how it all turned out. Now, why can't I find some more time to crochet a fun blanket for my own sons?!?
Eric and I finally got a Costco membership today! We're very excited about it. I think the 2 gallons of milk that we go through per week, plus the gas, will pay for our membership in less than half a year! Woohoo! :-)
My last pictures today are to celebrate the cuteness of my sweet sons!
Here they chase each other in circles and end in hugs!
Nathan thought it was pretty fun to wear this grapefruit skin on his head.
And if it fell off, he'd request it back on.
A favorite new toy: Empty Plastic Boxes!
Yes, I think my sons are adorable!
Monday, October 17, 2011
"Heaven is for Real for Kids"
Title: "Heaven is for Real for Kids" as told by Colton Burpo to his parents Todd & Sonja Burpo
This book is the experience of a 4y/o little boy who was ill in the hospital, visited parents, then returned to his parents. The narrative is written in the first person, in the voice of Colton describing what (or who!) he sees. With every page of narrative, is the corresponding Scripture that supports Colton's experience. This book is also beautifully illustrated by Wilson Ong, BUT I would be careful to disclose to everyone that the illustrations are purely the opinions of Wilson Ong and are unlikely to be accurate since 1) we cannot imagine or comprehend how amazing heaven will really be, and 2) I really don't think angels and Jesus look the way they are illustrated in the book, but I guess they had to put something - plus they had to make it kid friendly! Otherwise I have no complaints.
As soon as I received the book, I immediately read it to my 2 little boys. My older son said "again!" as soon as I finished reading it the first time. It's nice because the book holds his interest and tells him about heaven in a concise, easy to understand, kid friendly way.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.combook review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
This book is the experience of a 4y/o little boy who was ill in the hospital, visited parents, then returned to his parents. The narrative is written in the first person, in the voice of Colton describing what (or who!) he sees. With every page of narrative, is the corresponding Scripture that supports Colton's experience. This book is also beautifully illustrated by Wilson Ong, BUT I would be careful to disclose to everyone that the illustrations are purely the opinions of Wilson Ong and are unlikely to be accurate since 1) we cannot imagine or comprehend how amazing heaven will really be, and 2) I really don't think angels and Jesus look the way they are illustrated in the book, but I guess they had to put something - plus they had to make it kid friendly! Otherwise I have no complaints.
As soon as I received the book, I immediately read it to my 2 little boys. My older son said "again!" as soon as I finished reading it the first time. It's nice because the book holds his interest and tells him about heaven in a concise, easy to understand, kid friendly way.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Booksneeze Review of "Billy Graham in Quotes"
Title: “Billy Graham in Quotes” by Franklin Graham with Donna Lee Toney.
This book is organized by topics, 107 different topics to be exact. Each topic is presented with an “anchor verse,” a Bible verse that addresses that issue. Some of the topics covered include addiction, angels, character, children, death, hell, hope, imagination, integrity, and race, just to name a few. Each quote is presented as one to five sentences in length. They don’t just address the surface of the issue, but dig deeper for greater wisdom and understanding. In addition, the quotes often give appropriate responses for these issues in our communities, churches, families, or our lives. Brilliantly done.
I found “Billy Graham in Quotes” quite interesting. His quotes challenge you to consider a wide variety of issues, to think more deeply about them, to understand why you hold the opinions that you do, and even inspires you to want to share the ideas behind his quotes with others.
Initially, I was concerned that the book would not be able to hold my attention because it’s not like a fiction book that makes you want to keep reading to find out what would happen next. However, the organization of the quotes is done extremely well. Even without continuity from quote to quote or topic to topic, almost every quote is so good that it grabs your attention and makes you keep reading to see what else Billy Graham had to say. I definitely feel that Billy Graham successfully convened Biblical truth. I would recommend this book to all my friends. I think this book would be interesting to anyone who is curious about the issues addressed in the book, regardless of their faith.
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Friday, August 19, 2011
Wonderful uniquenesses I love
For the past week, Nathan has been attempting to let go of whatever object he is using to support himself as he stands. While he's been cruising for quite some time now, a few days ago, I saw him, let go of the recliner as he twisted and very smoothly went down on his hands and knees. Then yesterday, he again let go for just a split second before dropping onto his bottom. Today, he tried a couple of times, taking a couple tumbles after being unsupported for about half a second. Then, on his 3rd try, he got it!! My sweet baby went from sitting to standing with only a minor touch to my leg on his way up, then he stood there, swaying a little bumpily on his little feet as he check and balanced himself for about 30 seconds. I was so proud of him! Sweet Michael always encourages his little brother with "GOOD JOB, NATHAN!!!" while clapping his hands; his little face lit up joyfully.
It's so funny to me how different Michael and Nathan are - and I love them so much for their differences! Michael has always been most active, non-stop little buddy. From the moment he started to move during his first few months of life, he hasn't stopped. As soon as he could even attempt to roll over, diaper changes became wrestling matches. Nathan, on the other hand, is a much calmer baby. It has only been the last month or so that he has tried to flip over and crawl away during diaper changes!
While Michael loves to yell at the top of his lungs when he's having fun and is excited, Nathan's voice has a much more powerful volume, which he loves to exercise with loud screams to get what he wants. Of course, the poor baby has had to be much louder to get the same attention that Michael would get with the smallest of sounds.
Sweet little Nathan is a bottomless pit when it comes to food! I think he honestly eats 3 to 4 times the amount Michael eats on a daily basis. After Nathan will eat a whole bowl of food (and when I say bowl, I'm not talking about a small little bowl!), he will still want to eat more of anything he sees anyone else still eating! Everyday, Nathan eats oatmeal and at least 2 to 4 of the following vegetables: carrots, broccoli, celery, spinach, cauliflower, and tomatoes. He will also eat chicken, turkey, pork, and fish. Michael on the other hand, will go a whole day having only eaten 1/2 an egg, some rice, some noodles, and a lot of milk. Of course, in general I can still get him to eat corn, peas, broccoli, or tomatoes, but he's become much more finicky and picky. He'll almost never refuse cheese and cashews. Sometimes he'll still eat chicken (particularly if it's Chick-fil-a!), but he refuses almost any other meat. He does like shitaki mushrooms. Then I can usually get him to eat spaghetti and meat sauce (where I might try to hide more veggies), potato patties (again, with veggies hidden), mac & cheese, and my fried rice, but none of these are guaranteed, either. Fruit that he likes: bananas, grapes, cherries, blueberries, and strawberries - but again, he's not guaranteed to always eat it!
Other fun things going on over here: While Michael's favorite vehicle is still the train, he loves to watch "helkidopters" that fly overhead. He also loves to play Nathan's new favorite game of "kit-a-boo." Giraffes and Jaguars are his favorite animals, but he also likes "elpents." And "Gotchew" is still his favorite game.
It's so funny to me how different Michael and Nathan are - and I love them so much for their differences! Michael has always been most active, non-stop little buddy. From the moment he started to move during his first few months of life, he hasn't stopped. As soon as he could even attempt to roll over, diaper changes became wrestling matches. Nathan, on the other hand, is a much calmer baby. It has only been the last month or so that he has tried to flip over and crawl away during diaper changes!
While Michael loves to yell at the top of his lungs when he's having fun and is excited, Nathan's voice has a much more powerful volume, which he loves to exercise with loud screams to get what he wants. Of course, the poor baby has had to be much louder to get the same attention that Michael would get with the smallest of sounds.
Sweet little Nathan is a bottomless pit when it comes to food! I think he honestly eats 3 to 4 times the amount Michael eats on a daily basis. After Nathan will eat a whole bowl of food (and when I say bowl, I'm not talking about a small little bowl!), he will still want to eat more of anything he sees anyone else still eating! Everyday, Nathan eats oatmeal and at least 2 to 4 of the following vegetables: carrots, broccoli, celery, spinach, cauliflower, and tomatoes. He will also eat chicken, turkey, pork, and fish. Michael on the other hand, will go a whole day having only eaten 1/2 an egg, some rice, some noodles, and a lot of milk. Of course, in general I can still get him to eat corn, peas, broccoli, or tomatoes, but he's become much more finicky and picky. He'll almost never refuse cheese and cashews. Sometimes he'll still eat chicken (particularly if it's Chick-fil-a!), but he refuses almost any other meat. He does like shitaki mushrooms. Then I can usually get him to eat spaghetti and meat sauce (where I might try to hide more veggies), potato patties (again, with veggies hidden), mac & cheese, and my fried rice, but none of these are guaranteed, either. Fruit that he likes: bananas, grapes, cherries, blueberries, and strawberries - but again, he's not guaranteed to always eat it!
Other fun things going on over here: While Michael's favorite vehicle is still the train, he loves to watch "helkidopters" that fly overhead. He also loves to play Nathan's new favorite game of "kit-a-boo." Giraffes and Jaguars are his favorite animals, but he also likes "elpents." And "Gotchew" is still his favorite game.
Monday, August 15, 2011
a Miracle of Healing
One of my dear friends, Colby McLaurin, will be having brain surgery tomorrow to remove a large tumor in his brain. We are praying for a successful cure, a miracle, whether by medical or miraculous means. Maybe God is encouraging my faith and reminding me of the power of prayer, but below I have recorded two miraculous healings that I have personally experienced first-hand as a testimony to God's grace, mercy, and power. My prayer is that the Lord will receive the most glory in healing Colby, as well.
My first experience with a miraculous healing occurred in the Spring of 2010. I was almost 4 months pregnant with Nathan the week before Easter when I had strained my lumbar back muscles. I had constant spasms and intense pain for the entire week starting on Sunday, March 28th. The pain was so bad that it made me nauseated and I could not keep anything down, not even water. My OB/GYN gave me Tylenol/Codeine for the pain, which I was taking around the clock, alternating with the max dose of Tylenol I could take to come in right at 4000mg/24hrs. Even with all these pain meds, I still was unable to function or eat. I even used phenergan suppositories to keep from dry heaving constantly from the pain. My Sister-in-law, Julia, and my Mother-in-law were incredible during this period, helping me out with Michael so I could rest. My other Sister-in-law, Wendy, happened to come into town for Easter, so Saturday evening, April 3rd, she came over to our house, laid her hands on me, and prayed for healing, claiming healing for me in the name of Jesus Christ. As soon as the prayer was over, I no longer felt any pain. Not wanting to be disappointed if the pain returned, I cautiously admitted that I no longer felt pain, but it could have been because I had just taken another dose of the Tylenol/Codeine. But when I woke up Easter morning pain free, I knew that I had experienced an Easter miracle! The pain never returned!
On Saturday evening, two days ago, I had gone back out to the car to bring in a few things. Michael came and stood right behind the door. Not realizing he was there, when I swung the door open, it crashed into his left big toe and lifted the distal 5mm of his big toe from the nailbed, even folding it and creating a white line separating the lifted portion from the rest of the normal toenail. I immediately scooped my crying baby boy into my arms, apologizing over and over again, and held him close. Then I began to pray for his toe. I put my hand over his hurt toe and continued to call on the name of Jesus Christ, asking for healing, claiming healing in Jesus's name, asking for a miracle, and asking for more faith to help my unbelief. I checked on the toe several times as I continued to pray, and when I still saw that his toenail still bled, still had the white crease, and appeared bruised where it was bleeding below the nail, I returned to praying. After about 5 minutes, Michael was no longer crying and wanted to play. So I let him down and he ran off. Other than telling Eric to be careful with the toe when he gave Michael his bath, I didn't think about it again until I went to help with Michael's bedtime. We always read a Bible story and pray as a family. This night, I brought a bandaid with me to put over the toe so that Michael wouldn't accidentally irritate or hurt it more during his sleep. When I lifted Michael's left foot and looked at the whole, uncreased, unbruised, not bleeding big toenail, I set it back down and picked up his right foot, thinking I had the wrong foot. But his right big toe was perfect, too. I then got the privilege of thanking God with a full, grateful, and humbled heart that night.
Why did God answer these prayers in particular? I don't know, but I think the answer is found in His character. He wanted to teach me something; He wanted to remind me of the power of prayer; He wanted glory in these situations; He is loving; He is merciful; He can do all things; And on these days, He was willing. That's reason enough for me!
My first experience with a miraculous healing occurred in the Spring of 2010. I was almost 4 months pregnant with Nathan the week before Easter when I had strained my lumbar back muscles. I had constant spasms and intense pain for the entire week starting on Sunday, March 28th. The pain was so bad that it made me nauseated and I could not keep anything down, not even water. My OB/GYN gave me Tylenol/Codeine for the pain, which I was taking around the clock, alternating with the max dose of Tylenol I could take to come in right at 4000mg/24hrs. Even with all these pain meds, I still was unable to function or eat. I even used phenergan suppositories to keep from dry heaving constantly from the pain. My Sister-in-law, Julia, and my Mother-in-law were incredible during this period, helping me out with Michael so I could rest. My other Sister-in-law, Wendy, happened to come into town for Easter, so Saturday evening, April 3rd, she came over to our house, laid her hands on me, and prayed for healing, claiming healing for me in the name of Jesus Christ. As soon as the prayer was over, I no longer felt any pain. Not wanting to be disappointed if the pain returned, I cautiously admitted that I no longer felt pain, but it could have been because I had just taken another dose of the Tylenol/Codeine. But when I woke up Easter morning pain free, I knew that I had experienced an Easter miracle! The pain never returned!
On Saturday evening, two days ago, I had gone back out to the car to bring in a few things. Michael came and stood right behind the door. Not realizing he was there, when I swung the door open, it crashed into his left big toe and lifted the distal 5mm of his big toe from the nailbed, even folding it and creating a white line separating the lifted portion from the rest of the normal toenail. I immediately scooped my crying baby boy into my arms, apologizing over and over again, and held him close. Then I began to pray for his toe. I put my hand over his hurt toe and continued to call on the name of Jesus Christ, asking for healing, claiming healing in Jesus's name, asking for a miracle, and asking for more faith to help my unbelief. I checked on the toe several times as I continued to pray, and when I still saw that his toenail still bled, still had the white crease, and appeared bruised where it was bleeding below the nail, I returned to praying. After about 5 minutes, Michael was no longer crying and wanted to play. So I let him down and he ran off. Other than telling Eric to be careful with the toe when he gave Michael his bath, I didn't think about it again until I went to help with Michael's bedtime. We always read a Bible story and pray as a family. This night, I brought a bandaid with me to put over the toe so that Michael wouldn't accidentally irritate or hurt it more during his sleep. When I lifted Michael's left foot and looked at the whole, uncreased, unbruised, not bleeding big toenail, I set it back down and picked up his right foot, thinking I had the wrong foot. But his right big toe was perfect, too. I then got the privilege of thanking God with a full, grateful, and humbled heart that night.
Why did God answer these prayers in particular? I don't know, but I think the answer is found in His character. He wanted to teach me something; He wanted to remind me of the power of prayer; He wanted glory in these situations; He is loving; He is merciful; He can do all things; And on these days, He was willing. That's reason enough for me!
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
One Jaguar and One White Tiger
Last Saturday (August 6th), Eric and I took the boys to the Houston Aquarium. While I have to admit that I was not as impressed with the Houston Aquarium as I was with the Dallas World Aquarium, we still enjoyed a train ride through the shark tunnel, rode the ferris wheel, touched some surprisingly soft sting rays, and saw the two white tigers. This time, instead of Michael being mesmerized with the white tiger like he had been with the jaguar, it was Nathan's turn to reach out and interact with the large pacing white tiger. Unfortunately, I forgot my real camera, so I tried to capture a few shots with the camera phone, but I've included a better picture of the white tiger that I found on the internet. The funny thing is that, according to the Chinese Zodiac (and just to clarify: we do NOT believe in any of that Chinese Zodiac stuff), Nathan is a white tiger - the tiger comes around every 12 years, but every 5th time, i.e. 60 years, the tiger is the rare white tiger. So I call Michael "my little Jaguar" and Nathan "my little white tiger." Well, ok, I call them "Sweetheart," but when they're older, it'll be "Jaguar" and "Tiger." :-)
The good picture of the white tiger:
Nathan reaching out to touch the tiger as he paced by.
Both boys did enjoy the tiger exhibit.
Of course, we had to ride the train!
Other things going on with us: Nathan now knows how to climb down the stairs feet first! Of course, I still don't trust him to do it without my supervision, but I am very proud of him. Today, he also pulled himself to a stand on one of our push toys and walked halfway across the room pushing the toy. He can't stand or walk independently yet, and although he's cruised along couches and coffee tables, this is the first time that I saw him "walk" with a moving toy. Michael recognizes most of the letters of the alphabet now and can associate many of their sounds, too! Thank-you "Letter Factory" by Leap Frog!! Of course, he's misinterpreted some of the sounds. For example, the "L", he makes an "oh" sound! "Q" he calls "Jew." But for the most part, he's doing really well. When I teach him the correct sounds, he stubbornly insists that his interpretation is the correct one, but when he's a little older, I'll work harder at the corrections. Right now, it's hard not to laugh at how cute and funny it all sounds.
Favorite toys: Michael's is still his Take-Along Gordon & Percy trains that he got for Christmas. Right now, Nathan's is a red and yellow car with light-up headlights that sings "Toot, Toot, Chugga, Chugga, Big Red Car" and "In the Big Red Car we like to ride through the rainbow and the countryside."
The good picture of the white tiger:
Nathan reaching out to touch the tiger as he paced by.
Both boys did enjoy the tiger exhibit.
Of course, we had to ride the train!
Other things going on with us: Nathan now knows how to climb down the stairs feet first! Of course, I still don't trust him to do it without my supervision, but I am very proud of him. Today, he also pulled himself to a stand on one of our push toys and walked halfway across the room pushing the toy. He can't stand or walk independently yet, and although he's cruised along couches and coffee tables, this is the first time that I saw him "walk" with a moving toy. Michael recognizes most of the letters of the alphabet now and can associate many of their sounds, too! Thank-you "Letter Factory" by Leap Frog!! Of course, he's misinterpreted some of the sounds. For example, the "L", he makes an "oh" sound! "Q" he calls "Jew." But for the most part, he's doing really well. When I teach him the correct sounds, he stubbornly insists that his interpretation is the correct one, but when he's a little older, I'll work harder at the corrections. Right now, it's hard not to laugh at how cute and funny it all sounds.
Favorite toys: Michael's is still his Take-Along Gordon & Percy trains that he got for Christmas. Right now, Nathan's is a red and yellow car with light-up headlights that sings "Toot, Toot, Chugga, Chugga, Big Red Car" and "In the Big Red Car we like to ride through the rainbow and the countryside."
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Exercise is Fun!!
I love being loved and wanted and needed! Before I tell my story, let me just clarify that this is great only because Michael's only 2 1/2 years old. If this happens 20 years from now, we'll have to have some serious discussions. Anyways, it all started a few days ago on Saturday when Kathy and I were about to go out again after Eric got back from his conference and I had helped get Nathan to bed. As we were heading towards the door, Michael ran towards me, grabbed me, and said "You can't leave me! You can't leave me!" So I explained to Michael that I was NOT leaving him, but just going out for a little while, but would be back later that night. Of course, it still took a little bit of distraction and redirection to get out the door.
Well, it turns out that that wasn't just a one time thing. A couple nights ago, Michael did the same thing again. Since I was just running to the 99cent only store for a few things and it was still about 30-60 minutes before Michael's bedtime, I asked him if he wanted to go with me. Of course he said, "yes!" So we had a fun time shopping together.
Other fun things Michael says, "I did it!!!!" (shouted loudly, joyfully, and proudly.) Instead of breakfast, Michael calls it, "Brekafes." Whenever he's hungry and wants to eat, he says, "I want lunch." And even as I type this, he's taking off all his clothes one-by-one saying, "It's too hot." Nathan's most recent verbal accomplishment is, "Uh-oh!"
For fun and exercise, I took the boys to the Galleria on Thursday morning, to the little Children's play area. This was Nathan's first time at a play area and he had a lot of fun!
In this picture, Nathan is trying to reach over and play with the same thing Michael is. Of course, Michael doesn't budge, and even grabs Nathan's hand and takes it away, but all in all, they played well "together."
Nathan discovers these little cars and enjoyed climbing on to the little red one.
But Nathan's favorite thing was when he discovered crawling up the little incline of the Williams Tower. He spent the rest of the time climbing up the slide, having me lift him back down on to the floor, and repeating.
Best of all was getting to follow his Big Brother!
There's a Chinese phrase, "ke sho" (I'm guessing on the ping-yin), but it basically means to collide or rub shoulders or be in tight spaces with someone. That's what came to mind when I watched Michael and Nathan playing together.
This is where Nathan would sit and wait to be rescued!
And here's my brave boy climbing all over everything, jumping down from heights taller than himself!
I have definitely noticed that Michael is happier and more well-behaved when he's had a chance to exercise, run around till his head is soaked with sweat, and burn off all his excessive amounts of energy! Summers in Houston are often so hot that I'm inclined to stay at home. This means we don't hit the park on the daily basis like we did in the fall, winter, and spring. I think it was starting to take a toll because Michael was starting to seem bored and sad. But ever since taking him to the Galleria, he's bounced back to his super happy, joyful, playful self. So, if you see me at the Galleria or other indoor play area all the time, now you'll know why!
Today we're going to the Houston Aquarium so Michael can ride their train! Look for details in a future post!
Well, it turns out that that wasn't just a one time thing. A couple nights ago, Michael did the same thing again. Since I was just running to the 99cent only store for a few things and it was still about 30-60 minutes before Michael's bedtime, I asked him if he wanted to go with me. Of course he said, "yes!" So we had a fun time shopping together.
Other fun things Michael says, "I did it!!!!" (shouted loudly, joyfully, and proudly.) Instead of breakfast, Michael calls it, "Brekafes." Whenever he's hungry and wants to eat, he says, "I want lunch." And even as I type this, he's taking off all his clothes one-by-one saying, "It's too hot." Nathan's most recent verbal accomplishment is, "Uh-oh!"
For fun and exercise, I took the boys to the Galleria on Thursday morning, to the little Children's play area. This was Nathan's first time at a play area and he had a lot of fun!
In this picture, Nathan is trying to reach over and play with the same thing Michael is. Of course, Michael doesn't budge, and even grabs Nathan's hand and takes it away, but all in all, they played well "together."
Nathan discovers these little cars and enjoyed climbing on to the little red one.
But Nathan's favorite thing was when he discovered crawling up the little incline of the Williams Tower. He spent the rest of the time climbing up the slide, having me lift him back down on to the floor, and repeating.
Best of all was getting to follow his Big Brother!
There's a Chinese phrase, "ke sho" (I'm guessing on the ping-yin), but it basically means to collide or rub shoulders or be in tight spaces with someone. That's what came to mind when I watched Michael and Nathan playing together.
This is where Nathan would sit and wait to be rescued!
And here's my brave boy climbing all over everything, jumping down from heights taller than himself!
I have definitely noticed that Michael is happier and more well-behaved when he's had a chance to exercise, run around till his head is soaked with sweat, and burn off all his excessive amounts of energy! Summers in Houston are often so hot that I'm inclined to stay at home. This means we don't hit the park on the daily basis like we did in the fall, winter, and spring. I think it was starting to take a toll because Michael was starting to seem bored and sad. But ever since taking him to the Galleria, he's bounced back to his super happy, joyful, playful self. So, if you see me at the Galleria or other indoor play area all the time, now you'll know why!
Today we're going to the Houston Aquarium so Michael can ride their train! Look for details in a future post!
Monday, August 1, 2011
addendum to "things my son says..."
So I couldn't remember this one when I typed my previous blog, but it's so hilarious that I had to add it.
About a week ago, while playing in his little closet under the stairs, Michael picked up a gold plastic coin that had come in one of his Easter Eggs and started to sing, "I like money, money" to the tune of Madagascar's "I like to move it, move it." My first thought was, "what in the world?!" Then I called Eric to ask him about it since I thought maybe Eric had been listening to some financial talk show on the radio and maybe that's where Michael picked it up from. But Eric said no. I've been trying to teach Michael that the words are "move it, move it," not "money, money," but for some reason, he's convinced that the words should be "money, money." So then, since the tones are very similar, I tried to teach him "I like Mommy, Mommy," but he'll have none of that either! Yikes! I think I've got my work cut out for me!!
About a week ago, while playing in his little closet under the stairs, Michael picked up a gold plastic coin that had come in one of his Easter Eggs and started to sing, "I like money, money" to the tune of Madagascar's "I like to move it, move it." My first thought was, "what in the world?!" Then I called Eric to ask him about it since I thought maybe Eric had been listening to some financial talk show on the radio and maybe that's where Michael picked it up from. But Eric said no. I've been trying to teach Michael that the words are "move it, move it," not "money, money," but for some reason, he's convinced that the words should be "money, money." So then, since the tones are very similar, I tried to teach him "I like Mommy, Mommy," but he'll have none of that either! Yikes! I think I've got my work cut out for me!!
Sunday, July 31, 2011
A Grand Ol' Time
These last 3 1/2 days, I have had the privilege of spending almost every waking hour with my best friend, Kathy. Eric and I brought the boys to Dallas, where Eric has had a medical conference from 6:30am to 6pm every day, including Saturday and Sunday (till noon). That meant I've been on my own in a moderately unfamiliar city. Thankfully, Kathy hasn't stated her new job yet, so we've been hanging out! We spent most of the first day wandering the Galleria, looking at maternity clothes for her, getting our makeovers done at M-A-C, eating at Chick-fil-a, La Madeleine's, and then finally at Grand Lux Cafe. Our second day was spent at the pool at her apartment complex, then a long nap, shopping at Marshall's and Walmart, and finally a fun Big Night Out dinner for 2 at the Melting Pot. Our third day we hung out and ate some more Chick-fil-a while the boys napped in the morning, but after lunch we went to the Dallas World Aquarium where Michael fell in love with this gorgeous Jaguar. Needless to say, his souvenir for the trip is a 12-inch stuffed Jaguar from the gift shop. We visited Panera Bread for dinner and La Madeleine's for dessert before calling it an early night. This morning, we had breakfast at Cracker Barrel, for which Nate was finally able to join us (he's had to do put in quite a few extra hours at work this weekend, leaving Kathy to play with me!). Through it all, Michael and Nathan have been wonderful and cooperative. Sure, they got tired and fussy a few times, but understandably so, since they're schedules were a little messed up while I dragged them all over Dallas and they've had to sleep in unfamiliar surroundings.
Here are some pictures from the Dallas World Aquarium:
The Jaguar that Michael didn't want to leave.
This is the Tunnel that you walk through with so many different types of Sharks, Sting Rays, and large Turtles swimming all around you and above you.
There was also a cute little Giant River Otter.
This rainforest had a 40 ft waterfall, all sorts of birds flying around, monkeys jumping, black-neck swans swimming, giant turtles, a huge manatee, ducks, monstrous catfish, other fish and animals!
Good friends are a blessing. My prayer for Michael and Nathan is that God will provide them with a best friend, too. And when I say best friend, I don't just mean a really good friend. Instead, I mean a friend that the Bible describes in Proverbs 18:34 - "but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." Of course, my prayer is that they will be each other's best friend, but either way, as long as they have a true, Godly friend like that, that is the most important thing.
Here are some pictures from the Dallas World Aquarium:
The Jaguar that Michael didn't want to leave.
This is the Tunnel that you walk through with so many different types of Sharks, Sting Rays, and large Turtles swimming all around you and above you.
There was also a cute little Giant River Otter.
This rainforest had a 40 ft waterfall, all sorts of birds flying around, monkeys jumping, black-neck swans swimming, giant turtles, a huge manatee, ducks, monstrous catfish, other fish and animals!
Good friends are a blessing. My prayer for Michael and Nathan is that God will provide them with a best friend, too. And when I say best friend, I don't just mean a really good friend. Instead, I mean a friend that the Bible describes in Proverbs 18:34 - "but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." Of course, my prayer is that they will be each other's best friend, but either way, as long as they have a true, Godly friend like that, that is the most important thing.
Saturday, July 30, 2011
things my son says...
My sweet first-born son is only a little over 2 1/2 years old. Yet, here are some of the things he says:
I love to hear Michael call me "Mommy." It's sweet, innocent, and even nostalgic in its own way. Yet, the last couple weeks, I'm starting to hear more and more often: "Mo-o-om!" I can't help thinking to myself that Michael's too young to switch to the more grown-up "Mom" and I'm not quite ready for it. I mean, he's only 2 1/2!! That's practically still a baby! Now I see why some families have kids about 3 years apart - the older one was growing up too fast and becoming independent, and the parents wanted another little dependent baby! But I have already told myself that if Michael is ready for more independence, I'm going to help him, guide him, and do my best to not smother him. So not easy!
I never realized how often I must have said "what happened?" But Michael has learned to ask "What happened?" anytime Eric or I show any kind of concern or distress with any situation. It is extremely sweet, and often brings things back into the proper perspective when I have to think of an appropriate answer to Michael's "what happened?" For example, there was the time that Michael "took me" on our Mother's Day date to Jones Hall to watch "Thomas the Train, Live On-Stage!" Since I've never been the best with directions and am not as familiar with Downtown Houston, I had a lot of trouble finding my way back to the right highway and locating the on-ramps. I found myself driving around Downtown lost without the GPS, which Eric had forgotten to return to the car after the latest oil change. I've never handled being lost very well, so I was on the verge of panic and tears because my cell phone battery had died. In my emotional distress, I was convinced that Michael and I would be lost in Downtown Houston forever, with no way to contact Eric and the looming impossibility of finding my way out of Downtown and to the right highway. Needless to say, my whimpering was heard by Michael and he started to ask me, "What happened? What happened, Mommy?" It was a good reminder to get a grip and start praying for some help!
One of the things that I don't allow Michael to do is to throw major tantrums. From the first time he ever cried because he didn't get what he wanted, at less than a year old, I made the decision that if he ever cried or fussed, I would absolutely never give in because of the precedent it would set. Even if I was about to change my mind and let him have what he wanted, the second he cries, it's "over" and I become immovable in my decision. As he got older, and he started to want to cry loudly to try to get what he wanted, I would tell him to "stop crying, or you're going to get a spanking." I know it seems a little harsh, but in general, I would have to say that Michael doesn't throw tantrums. ("Thank-you, Lord! Please don't let that change!! And please let Nathan be the same!!") And when he does cry because he didn't get what he wanted and I say the above to him, he will literally exert visible self-control and stop crying, giving me the opportunity to praise him and love on him. Well, lately, Michael has taken to yelling "STOP CRYING! STOP CRYING!" to Nathan whenever he cries for any reason. Of course, Nathan, being only 10 1/2 months old, doesn't really listen to Michael, but Eric and I get a kick out of it.
Other cute things: Michael calls Lightening McQueen "Kachow". He used to call Gordon (from Thomas the Train and friends) "Jordan," because his cousin's name is Jordan. But now he knows Gordon's name and calls Jordan, "Gordon." I guess he hasn't yet realized that their names are not the same. He calls the movie Kung-Fu Panda "Kun-bu Bear". He used to have octopus down-pat, but now he calls it "opposite." He used to call giraffes "raff," but now he says that right. There are many others, but those are the ones that I can think of off the top of my head.
So what is Nathan saying these days? Well, let's see. There's "Up!" which I really think he knows what that means. He says "Ummm!" with every bite of food, and will tell us "Umm!" when he's hungry and wants to eat. Something he picked up from me when I first started to feed him solid food. Things he's said one time only: "nonono" and "ball." Of course there's been a few "Mama's", too!
I love to hear Michael call me "Mommy." It's sweet, innocent, and even nostalgic in its own way. Yet, the last couple weeks, I'm starting to hear more and more often: "Mo-o-om!" I can't help thinking to myself that Michael's too young to switch to the more grown-up "Mom" and I'm not quite ready for it. I mean, he's only 2 1/2!! That's practically still a baby! Now I see why some families have kids about 3 years apart - the older one was growing up too fast and becoming independent, and the parents wanted another little dependent baby! But I have already told myself that if Michael is ready for more independence, I'm going to help him, guide him, and do my best to not smother him. So not easy!
I never realized how often I must have said "what happened?" But Michael has learned to ask "What happened?" anytime Eric or I show any kind of concern or distress with any situation. It is extremely sweet, and often brings things back into the proper perspective when I have to think of an appropriate answer to Michael's "what happened?" For example, there was the time that Michael "took me" on our Mother's Day date to Jones Hall to watch "Thomas the Train, Live On-Stage!" Since I've never been the best with directions and am not as familiar with Downtown Houston, I had a lot of trouble finding my way back to the right highway and locating the on-ramps. I found myself driving around Downtown lost without the GPS, which Eric had forgotten to return to the car after the latest oil change. I've never handled being lost very well, so I was on the verge of panic and tears because my cell phone battery had died. In my emotional distress, I was convinced that Michael and I would be lost in Downtown Houston forever, with no way to contact Eric and the looming impossibility of finding my way out of Downtown and to the right highway. Needless to say, my whimpering was heard by Michael and he started to ask me, "What happened? What happened, Mommy?" It was a good reminder to get a grip and start praying for some help!
One of the things that I don't allow Michael to do is to throw major tantrums. From the first time he ever cried because he didn't get what he wanted, at less than a year old, I made the decision that if he ever cried or fussed, I would absolutely never give in because of the precedent it would set. Even if I was about to change my mind and let him have what he wanted, the second he cries, it's "over" and I become immovable in my decision. As he got older, and he started to want to cry loudly to try to get what he wanted, I would tell him to "stop crying, or you're going to get a spanking." I know it seems a little harsh, but in general, I would have to say that Michael doesn't throw tantrums. ("Thank-you, Lord! Please don't let that change!! And please let Nathan be the same!!") And when he does cry because he didn't get what he wanted and I say the above to him, he will literally exert visible self-control and stop crying, giving me the opportunity to praise him and love on him. Well, lately, Michael has taken to yelling "STOP CRYING! STOP CRYING!" to Nathan whenever he cries for any reason. Of course, Nathan, being only 10 1/2 months old, doesn't really listen to Michael, but Eric and I get a kick out of it.
Other cute things: Michael calls Lightening McQueen "Kachow". He used to call Gordon (from Thomas the Train and friends) "Jordan," because his cousin's name is Jordan. But now he knows Gordon's name and calls Jordan, "Gordon." I guess he hasn't yet realized that their names are not the same. He calls the movie Kung-Fu Panda "Kun-bu Bear". He used to have octopus down-pat, but now he calls it "opposite." He used to call giraffes "raff," but now he says that right. There are many others, but those are the ones that I can think of off the top of my head.
So what is Nathan saying these days? Well, let's see. There's "Up!" which I really think he knows what that means. He says "Ummm!" with every bite of food, and will tell us "Umm!" when he's hungry and wants to eat. Something he picked up from me when I first started to feed him solid food. Things he's said one time only: "nonono" and "ball." Of course there's been a few "Mama's", too!
Monday, July 25, 2011
Laughter
Two of the cutest and funniest things that happen on a daily basis over here in the Lee household is as follows.
The first fun thing is tickling Michael and Nathan until their giggling and laughing uncontrollably - at the same time! Michael is ticklish at the armpits and the soles of his feet. Nathan is ticklish on his belly. I love putting them side-by-side on the floor and then just tickling them over and over again, Michael squirming and laughing and kicking his little legs, twisting to get away, but then immediately returning for more, and Nathan with his little arms and legs waving in the air in pure joy. Their little laughter is music to my ears.
The second fun thing is playing with Nathan on the stairs. Nathan is now very good at climbing up the stairs. Since he doesn't know how to come back down on his own yet, I'm always chasing close behind him. One of Nathan's favorite things is chewing on Michael's socks, which can often be found lying at the bottom of the stairs near his tennis shoes. Nathan loves to grab a sock, then take off climbing up the stairs, giggling gleefully, completely pleased with himself. Halfway up, he'll look back to make sure I'm following him, and when he sees me, he giggles joyfully and keeps climbing. Then, the moment you make a move to chase after him, he squeals loudly with obvious delight and lunges forward, trying to get up faster and escape with his little treasure grasped tightly in his hand.
The first fun thing is tickling Michael and Nathan until their giggling and laughing uncontrollably - at the same time! Michael is ticklish at the armpits and the soles of his feet. Nathan is ticklish on his belly. I love putting them side-by-side on the floor and then just tickling them over and over again, Michael squirming and laughing and kicking his little legs, twisting to get away, but then immediately returning for more, and Nathan with his little arms and legs waving in the air in pure joy. Their little laughter is music to my ears.
The second fun thing is playing with Nathan on the stairs. Nathan is now very good at climbing up the stairs. Since he doesn't know how to come back down on his own yet, I'm always chasing close behind him. One of Nathan's favorite things is chewing on Michael's socks, which can often be found lying at the bottom of the stairs near his tennis shoes. Nathan loves to grab a sock, then take off climbing up the stairs, giggling gleefully, completely pleased with himself. Halfway up, he'll look back to make sure I'm following him, and when he sees me, he giggles joyfully and keeps climbing. Then, the moment you make a move to chase after him, he squeals loudly with obvious delight and lunges forward, trying to get up faster and escape with his little treasure grasped tightly in his hand.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Encountering God
A light-bulb went off this morning. I have always known, for many years, that God the Father and Jesus Christ love me. But for the last few years, God's love had become too general to be specific to me. What I mean by that is this: God loves the world. God loves everyone. Even the person who is unkind and mean, God loves them, too. And while that is the truest testimony of God's mercy, grace, and goodness, part of me began to think that if everyone is special, no one is special. And so God loves me, yes, but if God loves everyone, is that special? So, this morning, as I was going over Henry Blackaby's "Experiencing God," I was reminded that every time the Holy Spirit impresses something upon me, every time I learn something new, every time a passage of Scripture speaks to me, those moments are my very own, very personal, very intimate encounter with God. And why do I have encounters with God? Because God loves me in a very personal, very unique, and very intimate way. *Ding* Light bulb!
Thanks to Roger Patterson, the senior pastor of my church, I had the privilege of having a second, most wonderful encounter with the Lord today! You see, I've grown up being told to pursue righteousness. To hunger and thirst for righteousness. But I never understood HOW to do that. In the past, I would have said something like: keep the 10 commandments, love everyone, pray for everyone, forgive everyone, put others first, serve others, try not to sin, seek God's glory and His kingdom, etc, etc. It was always just so overwhelming, and even then I would not have ever used the word "righteous" to describe any of it. However, today, Roger told us the answer to my question was found in Romans 6:13 - "Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness." My job was to offer every part of my body (mind, eyes, mouth/tongue, hands, feet, etc) to God, to allow him to use each part of my body as an instrument of righteousness. Does that mean it will be easy - of course not! But what an exciting revelation, an amazing encounter, and an encouragement to hunger and thirst for righteousness! Feel free to help keep me accountable!
The last thing I want to share is a quote from "Billy Graham in Quotes." This is not my official review on this book, that will come later when I have read it in its entirety, but from time to time, I'll probably share from the book when something impresses me. The quote is: "America's Declaration of Independence speaks of 'the pursuit of happiness,' but nowhere in the Bible are we told to pursue this. Happiness is elusive, and we don't find it by seeking it." I was particularly touched by this quote because it is so true - the harder you try to find happiness (thus, consumed with self), the more discontent and unhappy you will likely be. The best way to find happiness is to stop worrying about yourself, start loving and caring and serving others, and most importantly, learning about and loving God/Jesus Christ/the Holy Spirit. Then you will find joy unspeakable, peace beyond understanding, and love unlimited.
Thanks to Roger Patterson, the senior pastor of my church, I had the privilege of having a second, most wonderful encounter with the Lord today! You see, I've grown up being told to pursue righteousness. To hunger and thirst for righteousness. But I never understood HOW to do that. In the past, I would have said something like: keep the 10 commandments, love everyone, pray for everyone, forgive everyone, put others first, serve others, try not to sin, seek God's glory and His kingdom, etc, etc. It was always just so overwhelming, and even then I would not have ever used the word "righteous" to describe any of it. However, today, Roger told us the answer to my question was found in Romans 6:13 - "Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness." My job was to offer every part of my body (mind, eyes, mouth/tongue, hands, feet, etc) to God, to allow him to use each part of my body as an instrument of righteousness. Does that mean it will be easy - of course not! But what an exciting revelation, an amazing encounter, and an encouragement to hunger and thirst for righteousness! Feel free to help keep me accountable!
The last thing I want to share is a quote from "Billy Graham in Quotes." This is not my official review on this book, that will come later when I have read it in its entirety, but from time to time, I'll probably share from the book when something impresses me. The quote is: "America's Declaration of Independence speaks of 'the pursuit of happiness,' but nowhere in the Bible are we told to pursue this. Happiness is elusive, and we don't find it by seeking it." I was particularly touched by this quote because it is so true - the harder you try to find happiness (thus, consumed with self), the more discontent and unhappy you will likely be. The best way to find happiness is to stop worrying about yourself, start loving and caring and serving others, and most importantly, learning about and loving God/Jesus Christ/the Holy Spirit. Then you will find joy unspeakable, peace beyond understanding, and love unlimited.
Monday, July 18, 2011
The Basics of Life
At the end of last week, I heard a radio DJ say, "Whew! We made it through another week." After hearing that, I couldn't stop thinking about how I disagreed with that statement. I'm not going to deny that I have often had that attitude myself, but over the last couple weeks, God has been changing that. I recently had a dear friend that was diagnosed with brain cancer. He has a 2 year old daughter and his wife has been like an older sister to me. Our prayer is for a miraculous healing or cure, but it's really made me think about how short our time here on Earth is and how precious each day is. Now, instead of thinking, "Whew, I made it through another week," I now think of how to take advantage of each day with my boys because my time to be as powerful an influence in their life as I have the opportunity to be now is short. Soon, they will grow up and transfer their primary emulation to their Daddy. For now, I'm just going to enjoy every moment of loving and teaching them.
As a grateful and proud Mommy, I must brag on Michael and Nathan. Earlier today, I had a servant team meeting for the Women's Bible Study with our church, WUBC/Crosspoint. We're studying Beth Moore's "Jesus, the One and Only." Because this is our only meeting prior to the start of the studies, it's a really important meeting and I really had to focus. Michael and Nathan were the only kids there, but they were both so incredibly well-behaved. Neither had any problems. No crying, no whining. Whenever I would ask Michael to do something, he would obey quickly. They didn't disrupt the meeting and weren't too distracting. I was so proud of them!
But more importantly than their good behavior, was one of the coolest things that Michael said today. Michael likes to watch the movie, "Kung Fu Panda." Originally, it was not one of the movies I thought was appropriate for him because it's not rated "G," but Eric has been letting him watch it and now he loves it. Well, during one of the scenes, the old wise turtle dies. Michael would always ask, "what happened to turtle?" I would always tell him that the turtle went to Heaven. Since he's only 2 1/2, I just wanted to start with introducing the concept of going to Heaven after life here without confusing it too much with whether or not the turtle really goes to Heaven (that will be for another day when he's older). Then, today, Michael said, "I want to go to Heaven." So I said, "I want you to go to Heaven! The way to get to Heaven is through Jesus Christ. Jesus is the way to Heaven. He loves you and died for you so you can go to Heaven. He saved you!" I was just so excited that I've been able to at least introduce some basic aspects of our faith to him. Of course, he's not old enough to understand sin and death and the need for salvation, but I found it to be such an encouraging start!
As a grateful and proud Mommy, I must brag on Michael and Nathan. Earlier today, I had a servant team meeting for the Women's Bible Study with our church, WUBC/Crosspoint. We're studying Beth Moore's "Jesus, the One and Only." Because this is our only meeting prior to the start of the studies, it's a really important meeting and I really had to focus. Michael and Nathan were the only kids there, but they were both so incredibly well-behaved. Neither had any problems. No crying, no whining. Whenever I would ask Michael to do something, he would obey quickly. They didn't disrupt the meeting and weren't too distracting. I was so proud of them!
But more importantly than their good behavior, was one of the coolest things that Michael said today. Michael likes to watch the movie, "Kung Fu Panda." Originally, it was not one of the movies I thought was appropriate for him because it's not rated "G," but Eric has been letting him watch it and now he loves it. Well, during one of the scenes, the old wise turtle dies. Michael would always ask, "what happened to turtle?" I would always tell him that the turtle went to Heaven. Since he's only 2 1/2, I just wanted to start with introducing the concept of going to Heaven after life here without confusing it too much with whether or not the turtle really goes to Heaven (that will be for another day when he's older). Then, today, Michael said, "I want to go to Heaven." So I said, "I want you to go to Heaven! The way to get to Heaven is through Jesus Christ. Jesus is the way to Heaven. He loves you and died for you so you can go to Heaven. He saved you!" I was just so excited that I've been able to at least introduce some basic aspects of our faith to him. Of course, he's not old enough to understand sin and death and the need for salvation, but I found it to be such an encouraging start!
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Joy of Mine
One of the greatest joys of being a Mommy is having the privilege of watching your sons start playing together. Now, today wasn't the first time that they rolled a ball back and forth, but it's the first day that they really seemed to connect with each other while doing so.
While this picture is from a week ago when Nathan climbed up the stairs on his own for the first time ever, I just had to brag about this cute little baby.
Of course, Eric and I aren't sure if Nathan has actually spoken his first words yet. He almost daily hears "NO NO NO" when we're trying to stop Michael from pushing him over. And a couple weeks ago, it certainly sounded like he said "no no no," but he never repeated that. Then, today, while climbing the stairs, he looked straight up at me from the bottom step and very clearly said "upupup!"
So what has God taught me today? I learned that Michael is extremely sensitive to my moods. If I'm upset for any reason, he mirrors my mood with whining, crying, and sleepiness. Lesson: resolve all conflicts as quickly as I am able so that I can be my normal self and Michael can be his usual bright, cheerful, happy little self. Thank-you, Lord, for all the men in my life, all 3. :-)
While this picture is from a week ago when Nathan climbed up the stairs on his own for the first time ever, I just had to brag about this cute little baby.
Of course, Eric and I aren't sure if Nathan has actually spoken his first words yet. He almost daily hears "NO NO NO" when we're trying to stop Michael from pushing him over. And a couple weeks ago, it certainly sounded like he said "no no no," but he never repeated that. Then, today, while climbing the stairs, he looked straight up at me from the bottom step and very clearly said "upupup!"
So what has God taught me today? I learned that Michael is extremely sensitive to my moods. If I'm upset for any reason, he mirrors my mood with whining, crying, and sleepiness. Lesson: resolve all conflicts as quickly as I am able so that I can be my normal self and Michael can be his usual bright, cheerful, happy little self. Thank-you, Lord, for all the men in my life, all 3. :-)
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