Friendships take effort

Friends.
I was back reading one of my friend's myspace blog post (Kelli Quave), and came across an entry I had missed about friendship. She made some great points, some of which I want to share with you today.

Once while talking to a friend she shared that she does not have many friends. I said, "Have you considered how much maintenance, and energy is required to have friends? Are you willing to make that kind of commitment to others? If not, then why would you expect others to make that same commitment to you? If you are, then how many friends can you manage?"

One major aspect of all relationships is respect, and I find there is a huge lack of respect in the world today. People, even friends, don't honor their own word. They don't follow through. They don't do what they say they are going to do. It's disappointing.

My parents will tell you, I've had a knack for making friends with people who are fickle and flaky- who skip out on plans without even a phone call to say they can't make it, who promise they are going to do something but don't.

I became so use to this sort of relationship, I began to take on some of these traits myself, but the guilt of treating my friends so poorly pulled at me, and I felt horrible.

I would rather have one really good, committed, loving friend who is there for me than have twenty buddies who are not dependable and don't follow through with what they say they are going to do.

We shouldn't make a commitment to anyone, especially our friends, if we don't intend on keeping it. I have found people will say they are going to do something just to avoid saying no, but have no real intention of following through in the end. This is sending a message that you can't be trusted.

Also, friendships can't be one-sided. I have had relationships with people who require me to do all the work. Brandon has a friend who, every time Brandon calls or bumps into him, chews him out for not keeping in touch with him. Brandon has to remind him each time that the phone works both ways, and that his friend could just as well pick up the phone and give him a call and chat or make plans!

Friendships require effort, just like any relationship. They require our time. Kelli made this point well in her post:

A person cannot expect to have TRUE friends if they do not apply the same expectations for themselves that they require from their friend. I have discovered that a TRUE friend has to be committed, dedicated, respectful, and probably the most difficult of all for longevity is self-sacrificing!

Of course, we cannot be unrealistic and expect our friends to drop everything, all of the time, for us. We cannot be selfish and require all of their time and effort, even if we are giving equally in return. Afterall, there are other aspects of life, and it takes a lot of energy to be a loving spouse, parent, sibling, child and tend to all of the other things that are required of us (like work, homekeeping, schooling, reading and praying and building our relationship with God, etc).

It sounds impressive to hear people say I have 5, 6, 7, etc. BEST friends, but I believe that is an exaggeration. It is possible to have countless friends, but to have a TRUE, loyal, BEST friend, one that will be there for you…no matter what comes…I believe those are rare and when you find one or two or three…REJOICE, but be willing to invest in them or you will lose that blessing. (Kelli)

It's worth examining ourselves: Are we dependable? Are we loyal? Are we helpful? Are we encouragers? Are we uplifters? Are we willing to be honest and trustworthy? Are we willing to put forth the effort?

Friendships take a lot of work. I am blessed to have a couple really close friends, along with some friendships that are more relaxed and don't require a huge level of commitment. It's okay to have friendships that are relaxed and easy going, friendships that aren't "high-maintenance", but even then, we should be willing to honor our word and follow through.

Thank God for godly husbands!

Several things to report this morning:

First of all, we so enjoyed church this morning. The message was so honest. You don't hear many sermons on Romans 9 because it's controversial. I love when people aren't afraid to talk about the touchy subjects like predestination, sexuality, and parenting... using the bible as the guideline and "go-to" for all such topics, of course.

Secondly, I ordered the Sonlight curriculum last night. I can't wait to get a hold of it. Luke tells me it will be like Christmas all over again. My aunt said she has used it before as well and enjoyed it. I love to read, and my children love books... so this will be a great thing for us, I'm positive. Merikalyn keeps asking when we're going to get all these books and start school. (As if we haven't been learning at all! Ha!)

This weekend was pretty awesome. There were some wonderful, touching moments between my husband and myself, which just filled my heart and made me swoon. Never under estimate the power of honest, loving words..... or small, helpful actions!

The previous week was a crazy one for my Hubby, and there were times when, exhausted, I felt a complaint or two coming on. I had to stop and remind myself that my husband was equally exhausted, if not more, and, while it's nice when he does little helpful things like clean or cook, it's not his job, it's mine.

I realize how important it is to give our thoughts to God and not allow complaining or discouragement take over. Some weeks are easier than others, of course.

I am very fortunate to have a faithful, loving, believing husband who loves to help me. God has transformed him in the span of our marriage, and I am so thankful for that. God is good!

Discouraged..

Tomorrow is Sunday, and normally, I look forward to this day the whole week. Before we moved back to Texas from Louisiana, we were attending a wonderful little Southern Baptist church. It required a bit of a drive, but the Spirit-filled fellowship, Spirit-led worship, and annointed preaching was well worth it.

We were fortunate in that our good friends, John and Ashley, had done a lot of church searching and come across this sweet church. At the time, Brandon and I were attending a larger church within minutes from our home, but, after one visit to our friends' church, we knew God was calling us to go there. It was difficult to leave the church we were attending because we had made such good friends and really loved our bible study class, but obviously, God had something else in store for us.

This little church wasn't very big. They started out as a home church, gathering when possible, until they outgrew the home and were able to get a little storefront in a strip (that is, shopping) center.

I love how our pastor, Jerry Chaddick, preached with such conviction and urgency, emphasising the need for personal revival and world-wide revival. I have listened to many, many ministers and preachers, and know very few who speak with such passion and urgency.

Since moving back to Texas, my husband and I have visited a different church every Sunday... not just Baptist churches, but all sorts of churches. Some preachers hardly mentioned the bible. Others mentioned the bible, but focused on feel-good messages, instead of getting down deep into the Word of God. We left a couple churches before the sermon was over.

It is so discouraging to see churches who have lost their first love, who are neither "hot nor cold", who are falling into the ways of the world by allowing worldly mindsets and society's opinions to have more importance than the Word of God.

I feel like crying, having to face another church tomorrow, but I am reminded that we must keep on going. I must admit, this has made me realize the true state of our Christian nation. We must stop preaching a watered-down, sugar-coated version of the gospel. People will not accept the Good News if they don't understand what the bad news, if they don't understand that we are sinners, disgusting and filthy, and worthy of death!

We are fortunate that we have Christian friends and family to fellowship with, but we so desire a church group to worship and praise the Lord with, and we hope to find a church passionate about discipleship and Truth.

That being said, I have listened to a couple sermons from the church we will be visiting tomorrow, and I have thoroughly enjoyed them and felt uplifted... so this really could be "it".. and I hope it is, because I am weary!

Keagan's 1st Birthday Bash

Here's a load of pictures from Kbaby's birthday party (last Sunday). They aren't in any specific order.


Here's the baseball cake I made for my sweetie!


Dad and I attempt to put together the stationary play thingamabob while Keagan and AJ wait.


Here's Kbaby wearing an outfit he got for his birthday (SO CUTE!) while flipping through a magazine. He loves books.. and he really flips through them, unlike my other children who, at this age, gnawed on them instead.


I love his little wide-eyed expression here!

From L-R, my friend Tim, my husband Brandon, Kbaby, and my brother's furry noggin.


Teresa Bunger gave M & N gifts as well. They really love them! Teresa also made the stop sign! So creative!


Here's Nolyn's gift!




Unca Chip with Kbaby

He picked up the cake and shoved it in his mouth right away!

Me and my sweetcheeks


My Mom (Nana, to the kids) and Kbaby. Notice the dog eagerly awaiting any cake droppings. She always hangs around and licks Kbaby's bumbo seat clean after I take him out.


He didn't know what all the gifts were for, but it was sure exciting!


Tara and Chipper

I love this picture of him. I edited out my husband, who was in the background... in his boxers. Ha!


My friend Tim with my parent's best friends (since pre-kids)Teresa and Chuck bunger. (And that's my dad whose head is covered by the balloon.)


Brandon and I show Kbaby his cake... and he's already prepared with a fork in his mouth!


Happy Birthday toooooo yoooou!


How cute it that? I love this stage. Heck, I love every stage.

That's all folks!

Survey: Whatshappenin'?

How does your day normally begin?
Well, it usually begins with rolling out of bed at around seven or so and making breakfast for my husband. The kids keep getting up earlier and earlier, much to my dismay, but I try to keep them in their beds until eight, because I need the peace and quiet before the day really gets rolling. Once eight comes around, I go and bounce on their beds, read a story, and pray with them. I'm guilty of rushing through my prayers, not on purpose, but because they get interrupted repeatedly. I'm so glad we can pray to the Lord throughout the day ("without ceasing") because sometimes it's near impossible to get quiet time.

I'm currently studying the gospel of Mark, so, after breakfast has been served to the munchkins and a bottle made for baby, I settle in my favorite chair with my bible, pen, and study guide.

What's for lunch during an average week?
Grilled cheese or chicken nuggets if there's nothing leftover from the previous night. But, usually there are leftovers.

What's your favorite part of the day?
Hmm.... even though I'm not much of a morning person, I've really come to love it. The mornings have been so beautiful with sunlight pouring through the windows and a slight breeze. Sometimes I sit outside with the dog and watch people load their critters in their cars and drive them off to school. I'm so thankful I get to keep my munchkins at home with me! I am truly blessed!

Least favorite?
Around two or three, the kids become quite irritable, but have had a hard time settling down for naps. This is when they are cranky and argumentative... and I'm ready for a nap as well, so we usually have a clash of wills due to sleepiness! Of course, I have times when the whole day seems like this.... but thankfully, most of them are pretty good!

How does the day usually end?
Well, after a homecooked meal, which we normally eat together as a family, we talk about our days, sometimes watch a little television or a movie. The kids get ready for bed, I put the baby down for the night, and then we pray with the munchkins. Sometimes they fall asleep beforehand, and I have to carry them up to their beds. I love to watch them sleep... such angelic faces!


I'm tagging my friend Kristin @ http://homemakerathearts.blogspot.com/ to do this!

Oh, and MamaArcher gave me an award:



Thank you Mama Archer! I'm passing this award to my favorite brillant blogs:

Kristin (Homemaker at Heart)
and
Living Sacrifice

Bake it up!

First of all, it looks like I have some new readers, so I'd like to say, "Welcome!" Secondly, I'd like to share this adorable photo of my Kbaby:

He was jabbering to the dog! :)

He's getting so big and quite mobile. He loves to climb the stairs, so I usually shadow him while he scoots onto each step. Right now he's banging on the chair I'm sitting on with a toy hammer, then offering me the hammer.

He's a sweet baby, always ready to share his pacifier, food, or a toy.... no matter how slobbery it is. (Ha!)

He just went up a size in diapers. I was using cloth diapers, but he was soaking through them too quickly, and I haven't found a good soaker pad that isn't bulky... so if you know of a good (but inexpensive) cloth diaper soaker pad, let me know! I use one-size diapers (the kind you adjust with snaps). I like them, because their cost friendly (no buying more with every growth spurt), but they are bulky on my small fellow, so I like to keep the soakers inside down to a small size. Right now, I'm using prefolds inside of them, and apparently, mine aren't absorbent enough! Anyway, no one wants to read a whole entry about diapers, so on to a different subject!

While Kbaby napped, the other two munchkins and I made yeast rolls. I LOVE yeast rolls. We've always made them shaped like crescents, and they're absolutely delicious. The kids received a lesson in fractions and division without even realizing it! I think we ate half of the batch before my husband got home!

Yesterday we made brownies.... we've definitely been in the baking mood! (I love fresh baked goodies, don't you?)

Anywho.....
I cannot wait to get my Sonlight stuff. I told my parents all about it, and now my mom is equally as eager! I hope my children love being homeschooled as much as I did. (I was in public schools most of my school "career" and homeschooled my final year.)

Sorry for all the randomness! Maybe someday soon I'll sit down and write a real entry... one that's actually interesting to read!

A sleepy update on homeschooling

Compared to my usual posting frenzy and frequency, it's been a while since I've spit out an entry. I've been so exhausted lately.... I'm not sure why... probably just wearing myself out mentally.

Anyway, Keagan's birthday party went well. We had a blast, and then slept really good afterwards! I have pictures, but I won't be able to post them until later (because I'm tired and lazy).

On the homeschool front, I've fallen in love with Sonlight curriculum. I'm about to order a boatload of stuff. It's expensive (in my opinion, but I'm uber-cheap), but well-worth it and can be used with all of our children when they are ready for it, so that's a plus.

Sonlight is Christian curriculum that focuses on reading. I really love it, and it's right up my alley. They offer a lesson plan, which you could follow strictly if you choose. My children are so eager to "do school" all of the time that I'm running out of ideas, which is why I decided to purchase curriculum. I'm super picky and was a bit discouraged after sifting through dozens of options, until I found Sonlight, and I instantly knew this would work for us.

I'm really not about structuring lessons every day, but I definitely don't mind a little structured hour or two... and I know how much my children love books, so I know they'll love spending time curled up on the couch with me as I do their read-alouds. I'm really looking forward to the history side of things because I love history.. and world culture as well- and even the Science is quite intriquing, which I enjoyed up until highschool (Chemistry was NOT my strong point). I can't wait to try some of the "Discover and Do" things!

The kids and I have been talking about it for the last few days, and they are so excited about it. I cannot order it until October when finances allow, but we're eagerly awaiting it! I love how their eyes light up at the idea of "all those books". I love to read as well, so.. I'm not sure who is more excited!

Btw, for all of those checking in on our Hurricane Ike updates- my friends, Dave and Lisa, as well as my grandmother (Genell) have electricity back now. Praise the Lord!

I'm tired. I need to go comb out my freshly washed hair before it dries like this (raaaat's nest!). Goodnight y'all!

House sweet home.

First of all, we're back home. I've been too busy (and exhausted) to get online and churn out an entry, so... sorry for the delay.

You know, children truly are a blessing. The bible says that children are a heritage from the Lord. I am reminded that children are the only immortal things we can make as humans. They are the only eternal thing we produce (through the grace of God, of course). When I think of it on those terms, I realize what a HUGE responsibility parenting is.

I love children. I look forward to having more... if God so allows, and enjoying my three wee ones as they grow into not-so-wee-ones. Merika keeps telling me we're going to have a large family..... a full house of "brothers and sisters". Here's one of her drawings.

Yesterday I visited my hometown of Alvin, Texas. It was quite amazing, in so many different ways. A flood of memories came back. The old bank. The place we rented movies from. The donut shop. Despite the damage to the small city because of the hurricane, the place still smelled the same- like fall... it always smelled like fall. Crisp, cool leaves. Like nature. Sweet smell of nature.

I lived in that house for seventeen years. But, when I looked back at the house as I talked to the neighbors I grew up with, I saw just a shell. It didn't have the spirit of home.

What makes a house a home? And how is it, the house I grew up in, the house that as home for so long, even after I left it, doesn't hold that home feeling anymore? Home is where the heart is, and now, that house belongs to someone else.


Still, so many memories surround it. It's a nice house, in a wonderful neighborhood.... neighborhoods like that are rare. I watched the people work together to drag loads of fallen trees and branches to the curb... children helping where they could. Man, poor people- without electricity for days... and couldn't even flush their toilets because the sewage was backed up. No telling when that will all be worked out. Still, they worked together, joked, laughed, and helped each other. Maybe the destruction from the hurricane will bring more communities together. Communities- people working together, helping one another- assist in that "home feeling".

Building a home takes work. Building a home takes time. But home is something that isn't made up of brick or siding. Home isn't about your furniture or decor. Home is about the heart. You don't have to rebuild home every time you move. You can take home with you. It's the heart n it... the love, the memories, the structure, the beliefs, the smiles....

I've been reading Home-Making by J.R. Miller (written in 1882). It's such a beautiful, beautiful book. Actually, I finished it in one day... it's just so beautiful. It's not about cooking or cleaning... it's about making a home. It's about marriage, about roles, discipling children, dealing with death.... it's a book for women and men, married or single.

"The house with its provision for the daily needs of the lower life, duly ordered and graciously illumined, is the trellis within which affections intertwine, and loving hearts, growing out into efflorescent richness, build up the home." (A quote of a quote in the book.) Miller calls homes "the divinely ordained fountains of life". As parents, we have the power to bring our homes (and children) blessings or curses by the way we manage it. Pretty powerful stuff.

Anyway... I don't know if I'm making any sense. I'm tired and my thoughts are scattered all over the place- tied together in my heart.. which is hard to explain in type.

I'll leave you with this sweet picture of this beautiful "work of art" displayed over our couch. (Hehe!) Beautiful, don't you think?

Btw- what makes a house feel like home to you? What memories... smells, sights, sounds... remind you of home?

Don't take it for granted!

I have learned so many valuable lessons in the last few days due as a result of Hurricane Ike. All these little extras we take for granted, (that truly ARE extras because there are many people in other countries who do without these things) what happens when they aren't readily available? Living in the land of excess, we aren't accustomed to going without. We want whatever we want, when we want it. That's become very obvious as we watch people fight over the last jug of milk or wait in line for gasoline (and then filled up 10 containers in the back of their truck... I hope they were going to share that with those who weren't able to get out to get gas!). You don't ever think about milk and bread being the latest craze. You don't realize how cushy your life is until you think about toilets that won't flush, boiling water every time you want to drink it, sewage backed up in people's yards, and not being able to flip a switch and have instant light.

And to think, there once was a time when people didn't have running water, electricity, and food stocked in their fridges (because there were no fridges).

You know, I wasn't so much worried about being uncomfortable if our power went out (and yes, it was hot, muggy, and sticky.. so it was uncomfortable when we were at home, hoping the electricity would return). What I was really concerned about was losing all that food we just bought!

We were very fortunate to have running water.. and a gas heater to heat that water so we could take warm baths!

This was actually a great experience for me. I really had a good time bonding with my friends and family while we "huddled" together in my parents' small two-bedroom condo (the first place to have power back!). We put together puzzles, played games, had wonderful chats..... and I wondered, "Why is it that we rarely do stuff like this..... only when it's a holiday or a horrible event!"

Y'know, my children didn't even want to come back home because they were having SO MUCH FUN!

There is a lot of damage around our towns, but I think it's worth the damage, if it unites us in working together, just as three families worked together in that small condo. Surprisingly, it never felt crowded!

I want to thank those of you who have donated. Brandon and I are praying about who, what, and where to spend the money on. If you would like to donate to give a helping hand to those affected by the hurricane, you can do so through PayPal.com. I posted about it in a previous entry. It's much appreciated! (Again, this money is NOT for us, but for those who do not have the finances and need help NOW.. whether it be for things to fix their homes... or replace their groceries. Some people will have plenty of work, but others will be without jobs for a while!)

I just got a call from our neighbor, and electricity has returned! We are THRILLED, but are too tired to drive back to the house, so we'll stay one more night and go back tomorrow. (It's only 8:15p, but it feels SO much later!)

Today I went to the house to clean out the fridge and see if I could save anything. Thankfully, all the meat we bought Wednesday was still good. It was almost completely defrosted, but chunks of ice were still in the freezer, so I knew the meat was still good. The kitchen smelled a little funky because the meat juice had drained to the bottom of the freezer and out onto the kitchen tile, so I had to mop it all up before I went back home.

I had pretty much accepted that we wouldn't be getting power back for a while (my grandmother might not get it back for a MONTH!), so this was a nice surprise!

We cooked all the meat, then froze some of it (and ate what my brother grilled).

Hopefully our friends, Dave and Lisa, will have power soon. Thankfully, there was a cool front last night so it's not steaming hot!

Milk in emergencies...

I recently stopped breastfeeding (due to a rapid decrease while moving), so Kbaby has been on milk for the last month. I tried to bf for as long as I could, but it was obvious he was not getting enough nourishment because my milk doesn't seem to be fatty enough, and, despite trying different things, he wasn't getting enough "hind milk".

Anyway, I almost made it to a year, which was very beneficial to his health, and I continued to bf him 2-3 times a day even when he supplemented, until he began to refuse it.

I write all of this to say that it has been difficult to find fresh milk because of the hurricane. It was the first thing to fly off the shelves- anything fresh from produce to bread- is gone. So, as the milk supply in the fridge dwindles, we have had to think of substitutes for Kbaby.

A month or so ago, I was talking to my Granny and she was telling me how they use to make "formula" from evaporated milk in the "old days". (From the 1920's until commercial infant formulas were created in the 1950's).

Here is that recipe:


The formula is made by mixing 13 oz evaporated milk with 19 oz water (to make a quart)
plus 2 tablespoons sugar. Another recipe was for 13 oz. evaporated milk, 18 oz of water,
and 2 tablespoons corn syrup, but corn syrup is not usually recommended today. This
formulation dilutes the protein and minerals by adding extra water, then adds a
carbohydrate source to bring the energy up to 20 kcal/oz. Families using this formula
need clear instructions on using evaporated whole milk (non evaporated low fat or skim
milk; and certainly not condensed milk which is sweet). Sanitation is also critical in
making the formula.

Hurricane Ike Donations

As I previously mentioned, I wanted to create a paypal account for people to send donations for those who are in need due to the hurricane. Several of you emailed me or noted me in request for it, so here it is:

If you would like to donate money, any amount (a dollar, ten dollars... whatever) you can paypal it to this email address: adropofkindness (at) mandymom (dot) com.

(I separated that out so spambots wouldn't "attack" it.)

This money is NOT for me, but for others who need immediate financial help for groceries or repair. (Btw, our banks here are not up and running, so some people have no clue when they will be able to cash checks.) Many people will be out of work for a while too, unfortunately.

Those who donate will receive notices of who and how they helped.

Hurricane Ike: The Next Day

Hey everyone,
Still no news whether we have power or not. Our neighbors have not called, so either they are asleep in the comfort of a cooled home, or the power is still out. They told my husband that they would be sleeping in their van if electricity did not return last night. (Of course, Brandon reminded them to keep their garage door open if they decided to do this!)

On this subject, my friend, Lisa (she and her husband came over last night, and her husband spent the night while she went into the hospital to work), said that there were so many cases of carbon monoxide poisioning due to people running their vehicles in the garage with the garage door down or running their generators inside the garage or closed space. I am sure there will be quite a few deaths related to this issue as well because people do not seem to be well-informed on these things.

An update for those of you checking in on my extended family- Sandra and Dickie were also without power and water (in East Texas...Tyler/Troup area), and may still be. Obviously, this storm is affecting a lot of lives in a short time!

Just a reminder- we are still at my parent's house. Our friends (Dave and Lisa) are still without power. Their apartment building has been wrecked. Sewage has overflowed into the pool, sky lights (which were in the hall) have been ripped off and water is pouring in. It is raining here again. There is a cool front headed our way, or so I'm told.. which is nice.

The humidity makes being without power almost unbareable. Before we left the house, we all felt sticky and clammy, even though Brandon and I had showered. Even the baby was sweating. Our neighbor gave birth a couple weeks ago, and I know this must be difficult for them!

Needless to say, there is much work to be done here, and we're already seeing (and hearing about) people banding together as friends and neighbors to make the repairs needed.

I'm sure a lot of you are sick of hearing about Ike, but it's a fact of life for those of us here. A lot of damage. I cannot even imagine what Galveston looks like. I grew up on those beaches, loved roaming the seawall and strand, and know that a lot of those little shops are completely obliterated.

We feel so fortunate not to have any significant damage (although, we are worried about looting while we are gone, but hopefull that doesn't happen). And, hopefully, there isn't any flooding. I know Spring area had flooding prior to the hurricane.

I heard that our family's friend, Linda Ronhaar, had a tree come crashing into her home. I believe that is correct... although I am hoping it's just rumor!

Later, I will be setting up a donation paypal account so that people can help those who need a little something to get back on their feet. (Fema and insurance takes a while, and some of these people will need something to tide them over, especially if they are out of work due to the hurricane.) If you are interested in donating, even if it's just a buck, let me know.

Thanks for checking up on us. It's so wonderful to know that people care about our wellbeing and have been praying for us.

Hurricane Ike: Picture & Update

Here's one picture from pre-Ike. Of course, I didn't get any during the major part of the storm (there's no way I was going outside, plus, you wouldn't have been able to see much of anything with all the wind and rain), but we enjoyed watching the colors of the sunset before it hit.

To update everyone again, as far as we know, we are still without power (but we still have running water). My parents now have power and running water (although our friends who are about a mile away from them do not). It's spotty throughout Greater Houston Area. Anyway, we decided to head to Mom and Dad's for a hot meal and "refrigerated air". Ahhhhh! Our friends (the ones I just mentioned) have joined us for a little cooling relief.

We saw alot of damage on our way to my parents. A lot of high rises are missing windows. We saw one tall business building missing the walls of a corner office... it was weird- the couch and desk were there, with a lamp on top of the desk. Reminds me of a scene from a movie, or something.

A lot of trees uprooted, some light poles down (especially in car lots), and that sort of stuff. There was no flooding in our area, fortunately.

We are still having trouble sending and receiving calls, and my cellphone is "down for the count"... and I forgot to bring my charger to my parents to give it a boost!

The kids have actually enjoyed the experience. We've tried to keep it stressfree for them.

Our neighbors are suppose to call us when our power is back on. We plan on spending the night here, as it is already 8pm. Hopefully it comes on soon; I'd hate to see my groceries go to waste! (Thankfully, we didn't spend too much on the stuff thats in the fridge.)

Hurricane Ike: Updates

Update #1:
It's 3:30am. We currently still have power, but it's in and out. We're watching the news, and it looks like the outer bans are past us, and we are now in the outer part of the main circle of the hurricane (which they are currently calling "the doughnut").

My parents, who live towards the middle of Houston, are without power. The eye of the hurricane is in Galveston at this time, or sitting over the bay.

The wind is definitely whipping around here, and I just spoke with Dad on his cellphone, and he said he could hear the wind... quite wild!

There have been scattered fires. In Galveston, a home caught on fire and it spread to other homes. Several businesses in hurricane areas have also caught fire. Some of these may be due to gas leaks, but of course, nothing is for sure.

There are some bad thunderstorms circulating, and I believe my parents will be getting hit with these off and on.

Continue to pray for us all here in the hurricane area. We are keeping phones, laptops, and batteries for our flashlights charged. My husband's laptop has internet, which we can use even if power is out, so I will update down the line.

Yesterday evening we flew a kite outside and the wind was so crazy. It would fly up super high, then make a nose dive, nearly crashing into the ground before swooping up again in different directions.

The kids(and dog) are all sleeping in our room, which is, conveniently, the safest room in our home.


Update #2:

It's 7am. I haven't slept well, but it seems the kids have, so I'm thankful for that. Our power went out for good shortly after I wrote the first update. We were glad it lasted that long. We have two fridges, and we moved all of our stuff we knew we wouldn't need to the one inside yesterday, and I had it turned as cold as it would go. We haven't opened it, and don't plan to. I know food will stay cold when the power goes out if your fridge is stocked and kept on the coldest levels. Of course, icecream will be melted, but hey... not like we REALLY need that stuff anyway. (The rule of thumb is that if you don't open your freezer at all, the food will stay frozen for 1-2 days on a regular fridge. Stand alone freezers will last longer.)

In the other fridge in the garage, we have ice, cokes, and water... plus I froze a couple bottles of milk for Keagan, so he would be able to have some. I am no longer breastfeeding, so he'll only get watered down juice once the milk is gone.

I haven't talked to my mom and dad yet, but will update again once I have. I am sure they are taking quite a beating in their area, much worse than we are. I am eager for the storm to be over (mainly because I hate storms) so I can check out the damage. At times, it has sounded like our garage door has been RIPPED OFF. And, I am hesitant to go into the garage to get the water and drinks we have there until the storm is over, in case opening the door into the garage causes a vacuum effect.

I don't believe we've had any rain damage inside the house. We've checked every few hours, and all seems to be fine. We've been able to see a few houses in our neighborhood from our own home, and they seem to be doing well. It's beginning the lighten up outside (a blue-ish color), so we're not completely in the dark, which is nice.

Sometimes I wish I was a kid and didn't have to worry about all of this stuff because you just KNOW your parents have it in control! Ah, to be niave again.

Anyway, I think that's pretty much it for the update. If you want to check up on the weather in our area, go to our local news station: http://www.khou.com/

Btw, 3 million people are without power. CRAZY, right?

Update #3:
7:30am
I just spoke with Dad, and he said things are calming down but there's still some rain and wind. The back side still hasn't come all the way through, so they still have more to go through. They are, obviously, still without power, but are also without running water.

I peeked outside and saw a few shingles outside... so, we'll need some roof repair, as I'm sure many will in this area.

Dad said that Chip is in Kingwood, and they have also lost power, but are fine.

Rewind Time!

Man, God has really been speaking to me out of the book of Mark this week. I was concerned about the coming hurricane, and was reading when Jesus and his disciples were in a boat, and a storm came. The disciples looked over to see Jesus sleeping, and they woke him up. They were in a panic, but Jesus calmed them.. and the storm. It was a reminder that Jesus is in control, and I need to just have faith that he'll take care of us.

In other news, well.. tomorrow I'll have a one year old. I cannot believe he's already one. At this point, one year ago, I was further than a week overdue, and I was getting tired of the constant questions of, "When are you going to be induced?" ("Never! I'm having an unassisted home birth!") and "You haven't had that baby yet?" ("No, I have, but I'm just really bloated today.")

He was born at 8pm on 9-12-07 and weighed 8 lbs!

Here are some pictures of my sweet baby!


M holding hew new baby brother for the first time!

Kissing my sweetie, who was only a few minutes old!

One of my favorite pictures... one of those few "kodak moments" that I took.

The Hands and The Feet of Jesus: Reaching Out in Prayer

I received some unfortunate news today. My cousin, Joe Crane, has passed away. He had been having health problems for the last (couple?) years. He was a retired minister who was adored by many. My thoughts are with Joe's wife, Joan, and his son, John Joseph along with his wife.

My thoughts have been on the urgency of the gospel message lately, and the loss of my relative has reminded me how fleeting life is. Yes, I know Joe lived a full life, but his passing was not expected, not yet.

There is someone in my life who I have been desperately praying for. Last week, God slammed my heart with the urgency of this person's salvation. I felt moved to make a commitment to spend time praying and spending time in the Word of God specifically focused on the needs of this person. As I was reading my bible last night, God impressed upon me the story of the paralytic Jesus forgave and healed (Mark 2: 1-12).

And again He entered Capernaum after some days, and it was heard that He was in the house. Immediately many gathered together, so that there was no longer
room to receive them, not even near the door. And He preached the word to
them. Then they came to Him, bringing a paralytic who was carried by four
men. And when they could not come near Him because of the crowd, they
uncovered the roof where He was. So when they had broken through, they let down the bed on which the paralytic was lying. When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven you.” (NKJV)

I've read this at several dozen times, even considered the great thing these friends of the paralytic did, but this time, it hit me so much stronger. This excerpt says, "When Jesus saw their faith..."

Something amazing happens when Christians gather together, whether physically or in spirit, to help others. I imagine these men worked together to get the man on the roof, break it down, and gently, safely lower their friend. They knew his need, they understood the urgency, and they didn't give up just because it was too packed for them to get this man close to Christ.

Sometimes there are situations which do not allow us to minister to those we love in the way we hope. We try, but then we see the impossibleness of it all, whether due to circumstances or the person's spirit. I tend to get discouraged and throw up my hands. "What can I do, Lord? What can I do?"

I kept crying out to the Lord, "What can I do? What can I do?" My heart ached for this person, but I felt so helpless. He reminded me that prayer matters, and that, with Him (God), nothing is impossible (Luke 1:37).

Think about it. If someone you loved was seriously ill, and you knew the cure for his or her ailment, wouldn't you want to share the cure with your loved one? Wouldn't you do just about anything to share the news of this cure with this person in order to spare them of the extreme pain and difficulties their illness would cause?

What scares me is that there are so many people out there who say they are Christians, say they know God, yet their lives are proof that they do not know God. There has been no transformation through God. These people are still stuck walking in the ways of the world. I've been one of those people... trying to be something that I could not have possibly been on my own.

We need so much the Truth of Jesus Christ, His grace and mercy, the gift of salvation, to be preached to people. We need to be passionate about it. It's truly a matter of life and death!

I want to challenge every Christian that reads this blog to commit to praying specifically for someone in their life. Not just mentioning this someone in passing as you say your daily prayers, but real, focused, passionate prayer for God to speak to this person and transform his or her life. Commit to praying for this person until they come to truly understand their sinful state, truly repent, and accept the gift God has offered through His Son. (And, continue praying for them in their "new babe" state.)

It's not about us doing a "great service" for God's kingdom, but rather us filling the plan Jesus put into motion for us to be His hands and feet. Reach out, reach up, for those who cannot do for themselves. Break down the roof and set this person before the feet of Christ.

Munchkins, ah.. munchkins.

It's been a crazy day. It's wasn't particularly eventful. We didn't run any errands. We didn't even leave the house, but my children were absolutely NUTS today. They were into everything, doing stuff they knew they weren't allowed to do, and constantly asking for stuff they knew they weren't allowed to have (over and over and over and over again)! I was about to pull my hair out!

They finally went outside to play as the day wound down and cooled off. They're back inside now, but a couple minutes ago, I saw them "moving". They were pushing their little playhouse from one side of the yard to another! Ha!

Keagan, that mobile little booger, always wants to be in the kitchen when I'm in the kitchen. I had to start putting up a gate to keep him out, because he's a fast little one and would rush for the oven from across the kitchen every time I opened it. I could just see my sweet little one getting burned! You should see the little guy, clinging to the gate, face smashed against it, drool dripping down onto the carpet..... practically begging me (in dadas mamas and googaas) to let him in, or at least hold him while I make dinner.

LOL- the kids are sitting on top of the dog house singing at the top of their lungs. So funny!

Discipleship Material

Today's world is not interested in "train up children in the way they should go". So many parents are abandoning their responsibilities to disciple their children and leaving it up to babysitters, teachers, and relatives.

When God began to reveal the importance and depth of our role as parents, we felt very overwhelmed. We didn't see many examples of a discipling family, not even in the Christian community. It's discouraging that there are not many Titus 2 men and women out there discipling younger men and women, but that's another entry for another time!

I saw all these principles in the bible, but I wasn't exactly sure HOW to apply them in a way my children would understand. Then a friend of mine introduced me to Vision Forum. I found so much wonderful material, and thought I would share the things I enjoy (or am at least about to enjoy!).

Raising Maidens of Virtue (book) by Stacy McDonald
"Through stories, conversational teachings, illustrations, and memory-making projects, Raising Maidens of Virtue covers topics such as guarding the tongue, idleness, sibling relationships, honoring parents, contentment, modesty, purity, cleanliness, and feminine biblical beauty."

Young Lady's Guide to the Harmonious Development of Christian Character (book)
This book was written over 150 years ago, but is still applicable today. Parents can use this book as a "teaching manual". I think it's also a good book for young men to read as well!

Why Christian Manhood Must Prevail (CD)
"How can we disciple our sons to be the true heirs of Christendom? In this powerful message, Doug Phillips calls the men and boys of our generation back to the lost legacy of Christian manhood, urging them to recover the old chivalric code that was once a hallmark of Western culture. Christian manhood, he maintains, must be recaptured or else our civilization will be destroyed. Yet there is hope: If we raise our sons to preserve, protect, and promote the ancient doctrine of “women and children first,” they can become “the repairer of the breach” and lead the West to greatness once again."

Raising Noble Sons & Victorious Daughters (6 books)
"The Bible exhorts sons and daughters to act with nobility, honor, and purpose. The world teaches them to devote themselves to self-indulgence, entertainment and selfish pursuits. The Bible teaches that while there are many areas of overlap in the preparation of boys and girls for life, there are also key differences. The world minimizes and mocks those differences. The Bible emphasizes a distinctively masculine vision of boyhood, and a distinctively feminine vision of girlhood. The world glorifies and markets an androgynous vision of childhood. [...]

Raising Noble Sons and Victorious Daughters Collection, is a library of six books offers practical advice for equipping boys and girls for the high calling of biblical manhood and womanhood. Topics covered include: how to choose friends: how to guard the tongue: how to act during public worship: how to behave at the table: how to be graceful and feminine: how to keeps one’s mind pure before marriage: how to govern the tongue: how to encourage brothers and sisters to be best friends: and much more."

Family Driven Faith (book) by Dr. Voddie Baucham, Jr.
Family Driven Faith: Doing what it takes to raise sons & daughters who walk with God. "Drawing from Deuteronomy 6 and other passages, Dr. Baucham explains the power of family-centered discipleship, demonstrating how the day-to-day training of our children can lay the groundwork for multi-generational faithfulness."

Home-Making (book) by J.R. Miller
It's not another book about dishes and laundry. It's about making a God-oriented family. Written in the 1880's, it's been described as a "call to arms" for Christian families. Here a a few comments from customer reviews:

"This book teaches brothers how to care for sisters, and vice-versa. It teaches wives how to help their husbands become their best, and how men can bring out every facet of their wives' beauty. It even gives parents perspective in dealing with the loss of a child. This is not pop-psychology."

"Is there any hope left of resurrecting this vision for our families? If, one-by-one, American families began to hold on to this vision for their own families, hope exists! J.R. Miller wrote this book with extraordinary skill, using poetic and metaphorical prose to weave a dream that would have the staying power to mold and influence a family to work toward seeing the dream become a reality."

I am ordering this one today! :)

Do you have any good family-centered materials to share?

Update in Pictures

Miss M.... she reminds me of my cousin, Sarah G, in this picture. Granny, Mom... Dad.. do you see what I mean?


Plinking on the piano...


Keagan LOVES to play in the kitchen. I have a gate to keep him out when I'm cooking. If he can get in, he usually heads for the fridge to play with the magnets.


N & M enjoyed playing with playdough. Our kitchen table is like the hub of our home. We spend a lot of time playing there, reading there, learning there... (even though we are not structured homeschoolers). I covered their side of the table with contact paper and put papers with ABCs underneath.

As I previously mentioned, our friends Ashley and John (and John's mother, Chris), stayed with us during Hurricane Gustav. Here are a few photos from our extended weekend with them!

The kids assisted John in baking a DELICIOUS cake.


Ashley watches on as Keagan gleefully plays with spoons. (You should have seen his face when he learned that banging them together makes a cool noise!)


We all played Xbox for a bit. Fun!

Ms. Chris was SO nice! She treated me to a pedicure (which, I really needed... I think they had to file/cut off half of my toes!). My feet are on the bottom... btw.

A parting shot.. before they left!

Hubby and myself

I shaved Nolyn's mohawk today. Here's a picture of him "fixing" one of our handmade cabinets.

I cannot believe my little pun'kin is going to be A YEAR OLD in ONE WEEK! AGGH! That's one of my personal art pieces behind him. It's now above my piano.

Anyway..... things are going great here! We feel so incredibly blessed to be in this beautiful home, close to family, and surrounded by friends!

Does God have a bed?

Nolyn: Mom, does God have a bed?
Me: Well, I don't know! I don't think God sleeps. I know He rests, though.
Nolyn: Do you think He has beds for us in heaven?
Merikalyn: Yeah! He does! Except, they are boxes.
Me: Boxes?
Merikalyn: Those things you sleep in when you die!

We've had some interesting conversations lately.....

Marriages Passionate for God!

A few months ago, I was smitten by the book Passionate Housewives Desperate for God by Jennie Chancey and Stacy McDonald. There are so many books out there for women that promote selfishness, or "me-ology", even books intended for Christian wives. These books are presenting lies to women, instead of ministering the Truth of the bible. PHDG is the first book I have come across that so accurately defines and strongly encourages biblical womanhood. There are so few books that encourage women to be all that they can be in Christ, instead of in their own strength and will. There are few books that view husband's so highly, instead of "that guy that leaves the toilet seat up" and can't seem to do anything right. PHDG encourages us to stop being selfish excuse-makers, and puts our role as a wife and mother in biblical perspective.

Anyway, I was so encouraged by the book (it truly is amazing and God glorifying), that my husband said, "I wish there was a book like this for men!" So, I did a bit of searching and found, The Exemplary Husband by Stuart Scott. (Btw, there is also a book called The Excellent Wife, which I am about to read.)

I bought this book a couple months ago and am getting around to reading it myself. I encouraged my husband to read PHDG so he could exhort and encourage me in the way of the Lord and in my biblical role as wife. Therefore, I find it only natural to read the book directed towards husbands, so I can encourage him as well.

Both of these books put the focus on the Lord. "The most important commitment for the Christian husband is to have a heart of worship towards God alone," TEH reads. Afterall, when we are truly devoted to Christ and living our lives under his direction and love, we will become the spouse we need to be.

Time and time again I've heard my single friends say, "I just can't find a good, Christian spouse!" Yet, they aren't living up to the expectations they have for a spouse. Why would God bless you with a strong, Christian spouse if you refuse to live your life in submission to Him? A good Christian woman or man is also looking for a "good Christian spouse", and if you are not truly devoted to Jesus, then you aren't yet marriage material.

Of course, I have seen people who are not marriage material tie the knot and BECOME marriage material, but it's so much better to start our marriages off on the right foot, so to speak, rather than wait.

Anywho, I encourage everyone, married or single, to read these books. Read them for yourselves... not to tell your spouse, "HEY, THIS IS WHAT YOU SHOULD BE!"

I am so blessed to have a wonderful husband who willingly ministers to my needs. He is so loving and kind. My husband is a perfect example of what God can do when He gets a hold of a person! Total transformation!

Why to we try to do things our own way? Why do we resist the Lord? Why do we swim in our misery, instead of depending on the Lord? Maybe it's because we think we're having to sacrifice something, but, let me tell you.... those things we have to give up and SO WORTH IT (and, in comparison, so "nothing" to what God blesses us with in return)!

Quit being stubborn! Lean on the Lord! Quit conforming to the world, even the "religiousity" of the world, and allow God to TRANSFORM you!

You are worthy of my praise!

There's a song (from the vocal stylings of Jeremy Camp) that really speaks to my soul. The lyrics, "I will give you all my worship! I will give you all my praise! You alone I long to worship. You alone are worthy of my praise!" are constantly running through my mind.

Over the last months, God has really been showing me what worship and praise is. It's not just verbal God-is-good stuff, it's a way of life. Of course, I learned this several years ago, but I needed reminding, as we often do in the ways of the Lord.

Colossians 3:23-24
And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.

I love this verse. It puts everything into perspective! Whatever we do, from washing the dishes and changing stinky diapers to working out our marriages and homeschooling our children, we are to do it unto the Lord. If we do it with a heart of praise and thankfulness for the blessings he has given us, it is a sweet offering to Jesus.

It makes it easier to do things that we don't want to do when we look at it as tending to the things the Lord has given us. This verse also reminds me that there are some things that do not bring praise to the Lord, and those things should avoided.

When you wake up in the morning, praise the Lord.
As you take a shower, thank the Lord for warm running water!
As you prepare meals, be reminded that God has provided food for your family.
As you disciple your children, wipe their noses, comb their hair, and spend time with them, GLORIFY the God who created them and blessed you with the duty of training them up!
As you see your husband off to work and welcome him home, praise God for providing a job for your husband (and for a husband who is willing to work to provide for the family).
As you clean the house, thank the Lord for giving you a home to clean.

You are blessed. God doesn't give us everything we want, but I can see he has clearly blessed us all with more than we need.

He is truly amazing and wonderful, gracious and kind! What are some things that you do or come across throughout your day that remind you have AWESOME he is?