Shine Again

Catching Up

2009-11-10T00:13:00.004-05:00

Time is just ticking along. It's hard to believe that Thanksgiving is just two weeks away. Here's just a snapshot of what's going on in our house these days:

- We are in the process of celebrating Hannah's 13th birthday- a sleepover with friends last Friday, a dessert open house on Saturday, and an open house with the Indianapolis Fever tomorrow night. But, the best is still yet to come! That's all I can say about that:) Stay tuned.

- God is doing amazing things in our childrens' hearts! It seems each day lately has been filled with a new realization of God's forgiveness and new questions about what it means to be a Christian. I'm in awe at the Lord's individual work in their lives. He's calling out to them one by one. They are responding and growing.

- Our homeschool group has ended for the semester. It will be nice to have some more concentrated time at home, yet the friends will be missed.

- I'm loving the local library which offers homeschool classes on a regular basis. It helps that one of the librarians is a homeschool mom herself. The oldest three just took a class on giving a powerpoint presentation. I was impressed with what the produced and presented.

- I have been going to the chiropractor and rehab since the beginning of the semester. Thankfully, I've gotten much relief and now have moved on to the final phase. Apart from my ice skating mishap on Friday, it's wonderful to not be in continual discomfort.

- I'm doing a few projects around the house. My favorite is repainting the baseboard and doors which currently have flat paint that just smears the dirt when being washed. I'm trying to do a bit each night after the kids are in bed. It's rewarding to finally fix what has been annoying me for a long time.

-I'm preparing our pantry for the Elimination Diet that we will all be starting after Thanksgiving. This has entailed making a lot of unsweetened applesauce, as well as creatively using what's in the pantry. We are hoping to get to the bottom of some consistent reactions the kids have been having with eczema and digestive problems.

So, what's been going on in your world?

Frugal living these days

2009-10-31T16:38:00.006-04:00

Many people have been asking me recently if I'm still bargain shopping and freezer cooking. I have to admit that I did get a bit burnt out after months and months of buckling down. Now that the debt is gone, the pressure isn't quite the same. That doesn't meant that I like spending our hard earned money on retail priced items when it could be put to better use.

So, I'm back at these days, but am looking for more balance. I simply can't keep up with the individual deals that I read on blogs here and there or run into the store at a moment's notice. And I refuse to clip every coupon that crosses my path. There's just no way.

I've found a some new-to-me websites that are quite helpful to this end. I like these because they are simple, give me the bottom line (how much am I actually saving) and then allow me to print off a list of only the deals that I actually want. I can even get a total for what I will spend.

Coupon Mom and Inexpensively are now on my list of favorite sites.

What's working for me is printing my lists from these two sites and sifting through my coupons twice a week while I'm waiting in the car during speech therapy. I keep my coupons in their original inserts with the date boldly written on the front. These are then placed in chronological order so they are easy to navigate. I keep these on a clipboard in the van. Then sometime during the week I'll steal away by myself and run into each store just for the items I have planned. That usually entails a stop by CVS, Walgreens, Kroger and Meijer. If an item is 80% off or less and I can stock up, it's worth the trip to me. I total, I'd say I'm spending about 30-40 minutes planning and an hours driving/shopping. I'm saving around 60-70% in the end or about $50 a week.

I'm also doing my best to stock up on seasonal produce when it hits its lowest price of the season. Of course, buying that much produce requires some diligence in preserving it for the future, but it beats paying a premium price later. Pumpkins and apples seem to be the theme. This week it was 3lb bags of apples for $.99. Needless to say, I'm up to my eyeballs in applesauce right now!!

When restaurant.com ran their 9/9/09 special, we decided to purchase a few certificates at 90% and give them a try. I was a bit skeptical at first. But amazingly, it worked wonderfully. We were able to enjoy a delicious Cajun meal which totaled for $35 for about $18 (tip included) as well as treat my in-laws to a big barbecue meal for their birthdays. I'm looking forward to using this site particularly when we are traveling and tend to eat out a lot. Most of these restaurants are local fare instead of chains. Bonus.

Finally, I'm planning on taking the last week of the month off from shopping altogether. This will require some planning ahead, but more than that it will force us to be content with what we have, which is always a good thing.

Within a few weeks all this grocery shopping/stocking won't be relevant as we are going a different direction in our diet for a while. After Thanksgiving, we (yes, all nine of us) are going on a little adventure of our own in the world of cuisine. But, I'll save that for another day.

At the end of the week....

2009-10-30T21:26:00.003-04:00

I've not been neglecting my blog, but rather trying to catch life as it speeds by. It seems as though my feet hit the floor in the morning (which has been normally around 6am due to chiropractor visits) and I seriously don't sit down to rest until 8pm or so.

Honestly, I'm feeling a bit drained these days. And discouraged.

I was thinking today in the van (choking back tears) about how I viewed life ten years ago. I had two babies, lived in a small apartment waiting for the moment that Sean would walk through the door each evening. I was drained from lack of regular sleep, constant physical care and a good dose of isolation since we only had one car. A blog probably would have been therapeutic back then. The clock ticked so slowly in those days. Some days I really thought might never end.

I never imagined then that my life would be where it is today. There is never enough time to answer all the questions and concerns. I have such willing, helping hands for all the physical tasks which never ceases to bless me. The days of simply kissing away the tears or putting a whiny baby to bed are largely gone. Now it's long discussions with lots of emotions and opinions involved. It's giving attention to ideas and conflicts before the moment passes. It's the nitty gritty work of sanding down the rough edges that become evident in a family.

It's been made clear to me these past few weeks that in all these interactions, I have some rough edges myself. At times it's painful for me to not lash out or become hurtful to those I love. I can feel it just well up inside me. I'm constantly having to seek wisdom to know how to properly respond and react. I want to be the right one. I want them just to follow my marching orders. I want to be just a bit sarcastic to get a word in. I want them to understand me, where I'm coming from and trust that my way is best. That would be so much easier, right?

No. I know the answer is no. Yet, I feel a part of me dying each time I push back what I want. I know that these trials are not really about clothes or insecurities or a argument between siblings. It's about sanctification- for all of us. By God's grace I will do my best to continue to draw the lines carefully and enforce the consequences consistently. I'm so not good at this, but I want to be. I want to please the Lord. I want His Love to be poured out on my children through me. I want them to know that there is no problem too small or too big that He does not care about. I want them to be blessed in their obedience and repentant in their disobedience.

I feel so far from that place myself right now. And discouraged. I'm thankful for the coming Lord's Day- a time to rest, rejoice, reflect and know again what is True.

Funny Stuff

2009-10-27T09:46:00.003-04:00

Here's some happenings from this past week that brightened my days:

Recently the kids watched some old Popeye cartoons and thought it was hysterical when they saw his picture on a bag of spinach that I had out for salad.

After laughing like a crazy man, Joseph informed us, "You know, Popeye is both healthy and unhealthy. He's healthy because he eats spinach. He's unhealthy because he smokes. That makes no sense."

Joseph and Betsy have set up shop in our back yard trying to sell their wares. They had their first customer last night.

"Mom, mom....we made some money!"

"What did you sell?"

"Dad bought an old fork from us for $.25!"

Yes, it was a fork that had been left in the sand box all summer and has seen better days. Sean washed it up and straightened it out stating it was the best $.25 he's spent in a while. We never have enough forks around here.

And for the final act.... Elizabeth and Rebekah were told that they couldn't watch a movie and came up with something much more entertaining- an initiation of the contortionist Chinese girls that we saw at the State Fair.

Read more funny stories about what kids are saying at Mary's Tiny Talk Tuesday.

"Let no debt remain outstanding....."

2009-10-22T10:44:00.000-04:00

As you may (or may not) remember much of this blog last year was dedicated to our striving and work toward frugal living. We had a No Spend Challenge Month. We collected all our change for a month. We set the goal of $400 month for a grocery budget in 2008. (Follow the sidebar on Frugal Living for details.)

Well, by God's goodness, I am thrilled to report that after 2 1/2 years our family is now DEBT FREE! (expect for our mortgage). We received the title to our van last week in the mail which resulted in much jumping and dancing around by all. The total amount of debt paid off was about $28,000. The majority of this sum was the 15 passenger van we bought in 2007. The remainder was owed for various emergencies that had arisen over time and we had charged to a credit card. Keep in mind that during these past two years there were two surgeries, four car repairs, four appliances replaced, home repairs, a room makeover, xrays, doctors visits, many memorable road trips.... You get the idea. Life doesn't stop just to let us meet our goals. There have been some obstacles along the way, but here we are. Finally. Here we are!

Honesty, we didn't sell all our things, receive an inheritance or follow a secret plan. God has provided extra work for us and we've been working hard. The doors that have opened have been amazing, particularly for Sean. He's now getting compensated for what he loves to do- teach math/physics and encourage others in their instruction of it. This has taken the form of both speaking and writing.

It is though a large weight has been lifted. Romans 13:8 says, "Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law." This verse holds new meaning. Sure, it's a relief to get rid of those monthly payments. But more than that, it's freedom look outside ourselves and the financial pressures. It's the freedom to continue to trust God for whatever the future may hold. It's the freedom to be able to bless others. It's the freedom to serve One Master- the One who meets our every need and every way.

I hesitated to put numbers here on the blog. Debt, no matter how large or small, is a slave master. But I wanted give praise to God for His Provision and work in our lives. I also want to be an encouragement to you where ever you are on your journeys. Persevere, my friends, you can do this- one day at a time.

Our children have been with us on this journey 100%. They've known the goals and seen the budget. I've even made them listen to the Dave Ramsey Show on many an occasion. In fact, whenever they see a 1-800 number on the caller ID they swear that it's Dave Ramsey calling:) I pray that as they read this someday, they will remember these years as ones not of want, but of plenty. It hasn't always been fun, but it's made us who we are today.

And so the work continues and the major savings has now begun. I believe 2010 might be renamed "The Year of the Orthodontist."

Praying

2009-10-15T06:40:00.006-04:00

We have known the Goins family since 1997 when we attended the same church. Sean taught with Mark for several years. Diane selflessly watched my babies for a few years so I could attend a weekly Bible Study. If I had to describe them in a few words, they would be "passionate" and "authentic".

The Goins are the real deal. They love the Lord and His people in practical ways. In recent years, they have followed God's leading to adopt children into their family. They have three children already, but have taken seriously the call of the orphan. They have sacrificed, worked hard and creatively to raise funds for a few years now in order to adopt without debt.

As a family they have been in the Ukraine since early September waiting and bonding with their new son and daughter. Yesterday we received an email from Mark stating that they have just learned that there is 0% chance that the adoption will go through. Mark did not give any details, but only stated it is a matter or pride, personality and prejudice. They will receive some "complimentary" time in front of the judge on Friday. (The Ukraine is seven hours ahead of us).

Won't you pray with me today? Pray that nothing will hinder Friday's court appearance from happening. Pray that God will miraculously turn this judge's heart to grant the Goins' favor. Pray that if this obstacle is bound up in logistics that the details will be worked out before they see the judge. Pray for these children to be adopted into a real family who already love them and who will raise them with the Love of Christ.

According to the powers that be the judgment against them has already been made. We are praying for a miracle.

They crack me up!

2009-10-13T07:38:00.001-04:00

What ever will they come up with next?

Betsy recently asked to wear her glasses again stating the problem as she sees it:

"Mom, I know I need glasses now. Whenever I close my one eye then open it and close my other eye, everything moves just a little bit. Just a tiny little bit."

Joseph inquired for no apparent reason:

"Dad, can a person be allergic to money?"

We went to the Henry Ford Museum where the interpreter told us a story about how Ford disliked cleaning the chicken coup so much as a child that he refused to eat chicken for the entirety of his life to which my children responded:

"That doesn't make sense, because if he would eat the chickens then there would be nothing to clean up after!"

Reviewing a sermon we heard on marriage in the van I asked the kids to each tell me one thing they heard or learned.

Joseph: "If you are married than you are perfect."

Me: "Nope, quite the opposite. Try again."

Joseph: "No one or no thing should replace God in your heart."

Those are words to live by.

And finally because we think just about everything is funny- here's a video I found that the kids had taken themselves.

This post can be found at Tiny Talk Tuesday along with lots of other reasons to smile:)

2009-10-12T22:49:00.003-04:00

Youth is like spring, an over praised season more remarkable for biting winds than genial breezes. Autumn is the mellower season, and what we lose in flowers we more than gain in fruits.
~Samuel Butler

Michigan, October 2009

Purging

2009-10-07T23:18:00.003-04:00

I feel like there's a lot of stuff in my life that just needs to go. It's like I'm constantly stepping over something to get the the thing that I really need. And now that it's getting colder outside this is becoming not only a bit more obvious, but annoying as well. The end result is that I get quickly overwhelmed which leads to unmotivation which then leads to procrastination which results with grumpiness. None of this is a good thing, nor is it helpful to my family.

Some things have got to go. I have neither the time nor the energy to maintain it all. I once read a blog by someone who actually got rid of everything but the bare essentials. Their home consisted of walls, carpet and a few pieces of furniture. They had seven outfits that they rotated every single week. Though, I'm not ready to go to that extreme, it is worth contemplating. It sure would free up some space not only in our home, but in my brain.

We're away for a few days for Fall Break. I hope to arrive home with a plan to start tackling the unnecessaries before they tackle me!

Is it just me or does any one else struggle with this?

The Cooks Next Door

2009-10-06T22:14:00.004-04:00

I just got home from our church's monthly Mom's Night Out. This normally involves some good food followed by desert and coffee. More than that it's a time to reconnect, laugh, share and be friends. I'm blessed that though our congregation is small by many standards it overflows with authentic relationships.

Want to meet some of my friends? Let me tell you that they are some of the most creative people I know. And when it comes to food, they shine. To bless us all Alaina and Heather have started a new blog. Hope you are able to spend some time at The Cooks Next Door and are as inspired by these women as I am.

Getting there and getting home again

2009-09-29T23:00:00.001-04:00

I heard some words of wisdom from my brother-in-law that has really affected the way we traveled last summer. Basically, his mentality when hitting the road with the family is this: "Vacation starts when you leave the driveway and doesn't end until you park your car back in the garage."

There's just no reason to hurry up, stress out and make everyone's travels unenjoyable along the way waiting for the vacation to begin. Of course there are sometimes time restraints, but if these are expected the journey can still be enjoyable.

So here's some ways we've made traveling part of vacation this summer:

1) Listened to ALOT of Adventures in Odyssey together which we checked out from the library.

2) Enjoyed special-to-us snacks like stringed cheese and yogurt in a tube. Seriously, it's the little things. It doesn't take much.

3) Followed a billboard for a dairy farm in hopes of just stretching our legs and getting some good ice cream. Instead, we had a few hours of serious fun, a 4 D movie and a farm tour. Then we ate the ice cream. Go ahead- ask us anything about dairy production.

4) Stopped at a rest stop and ran off some energy on a playground.

5) With a little research on the internet, decided to stop by and visit an amazing kid's zoo for the afternoon.

6) Said yes, more than no.

7) Took a potty break at a restaurant with a play land and let the little ones race and slide for a few minutes.

8) Picked up some free maps at a rest stop. The kids colored and traced their way home.

9) Stayed in the last day to let the kids swim and play to their heart's content while I did laundry. Going to home with luggage full of clean clothes is a relaxing thought in itself! We also took a much needed nap to recoup from a week of non stop fun.

10) Grabbed bagels for breakfast on the way out town and left a meal ready in the freezer for when we got home again.

I know that our vacation time has been enriched with just a simple shift of thinking. Sometimes in the packing, planning and effort to get out the door, I've left something very important behind- the realization that I'm not blessing my family by stressing and rushing.

Life is not just the destination, it's the journey.

(Just so you know- we consider any time that we spend a night at a hotel 'vacation'. We usually take several short road trips around the Midwest tagging along as my husband works.)

This and other ideas can be found on WFMW at We are THAT Family!

Sweet Victory

2009-09-26T23:09:00.004-04:00

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses,

let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,

looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. - Hebrews 12:1-2

Tonight we attended the WNBA conference finals in which our team, the Fever, won a hard fought battle. Nestled in a crowd of 18,000 it was overwhelming to hear the cheers of so many coming as if from one voice. The energy was palpable. The encouragement was constant. It was as though everyone already knew that our team had the victory even though the score remained close to the end.

I could not help but think of this passage from Hebrews. That crowd is minuscule in comparison to those in heaven- those who see clearly the reality of Christ and His accomplished work in the lives of His people. I imagine that they are like that crowd tonight- so excited to watch the action and cheering with all their might.

Sometimes, I get bogged down in this walk of sanctification. As God convicts me of my sin and calls me to holy living, I feel somewhat alone in my own head. Why is it that I always fail in the same area? Why do I have to learn this lesson again and again, Lord? It's as if at times I'm just spinning my wheels deeper into the mud. I remember sweeter times of growth and closeness with the Lord. Why can't I be there now?

As I watched the last seconds of the game unfold, I pictured a different scenerio. I was one of the players on that court and it was the crowd of God's people calling out:

"Monica, God's promises are true!"

"You are God's very own!"

"The victory is ours!"

"Don't give up!"

As the final buzzer rang, the crowd rushed the the floor and the streamers drifted down from the ceiling, I nearly cried. It was not for the victory of the basketball game, but the profound realization that one day my race will end in glory.

"

School Days

2009-09-15T22:47:00.003-04:00

We are in our sixth week of school now. Today sitting on the couch I had fun photographing life as it happened around me:

Two were reading.

One was on the floor doing math.

The other was beside me learning about DeSoto while I completely enjoyed holding my niece.

And the others, well, I'll let you see for yourself.....

Rejoicing and Reflections

2009-09-10T10:33:00.003-04:00

There is much to rejoice about today. Although the yesterday's procedure was a bit more painful than I anticipated, it was so evident to me that God's hand was in it all. Perhaps this was most evident in the doctor's assistant, Annie, who comforted me through the process by her kind words and reassuring touch. We ended up having a great conversation about the Lord and His goodness to our families.

I'm reminded again that being in the health care profession really is a means to ministry. For the individual undergoing a medical test or procedure, they are in a particularly vulnerable position. Thus, they are often open to the comfort and words extended to them. There are few other places in our culture where is would be the norm.

I'm also convicted again about my own preconceived ideas that I place on my patients. Often when a procedure that is supposed to be relatively painless results in a patient's great discomfort, I can be quick to dismiss that as an overreaction in the midst of my busyness. But after my experience yesterday, I can testify differently. For me, what was supposed to be minimally painful was anything but. Even today my neck is really sore, swollen, and uncomfortable. Lesson learned.

The pathologist was kind enough to let me stay to hear his preliminary report. He found nothing suspicious in the nodule itself. We are praising God for such a good reports as this! I'll return my doctor in a week to figure out the next steps.

I am so thankful for the Lord's sanctifying work in my life. He loves me enough to choose the hard things to teach me and grow me up in him. If I had to choose a "life verse" it would be Psalm 139:23-24. I memorized it at a retreat in middle school and daily since it comes to my mind and settles in my heart. Yesterday was no exception.

Search me, O God, and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.

See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.

-Psalm 139:23-24

Biopsy Day

2009-09-09T03:00:00.000-04:00

Today I will undergo testing for a large thyroid nodule that came to my attention this summer. At first, I thought that maybe I was just getting an old woman neck. But when I realized that women aren't supposed to have Adam's apples and that other people noticed it, too, I figured that my time had come.

You see, nurses are either hypochondriacs or the worst patients ever. I tend to be the latter, which means that without something growing out of the side of my head, I'm not likely to pursue medical treatment. I figure, "It's not nearly as bad as that one thing I saw that one time...." Then I distract myself with that story for a while and push it all aside.

The doctor didn't hesitate in ordering a biopsy, which was expected. I'm not exactly thrilled about having a needle placed in my neck multiple times, but it certainly isn't the worst scenario. I will receive the results in another week and a half.

This really is the first time that I have been faced with my own mortality. There have been a few memorable near miss car accidents. Those lasted but a split second and left me with weak knees and a racing heart. This has been a bit different. It's the reality that this body truly is just a tent. Just a temporary house that will be declining in its own ways through the years.

I could easily use logic to get me through this process. Oh, I've studied the facts. 90% of thyroid nodules are benign. Thyroid cancer rarely spreads, if so it is usually in those over 70. Otherwise, this cancer's treatment is fairly uncomplicated and highly successful.

But, honestly, I don't want to miss the opportunity to grow in my faith regardless of the outcome of today's tests. I've been coming back to these verses, ones that I've known for years, and asking for deeper understanding.

Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. -Romans 5:1-5

But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith. I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead.

Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. -Phil 3:14

Everyday

2009-09-05T09:21:00.008-04:00

My morning paper delivered by Joseph himself. According to the news, John and Rebekah are playing and eggs are free. (I think someone wants breakfast.)

Math games with dad and Saturday chores in progress.

Lydia has declared that this is the year to "find my style". We had fun dressing her up with a bag of hand-me-down clothes.

7:30 am volleyball match with the neighbors before the bus comes and homeschool starts. It's amazing how motivating a new toy in the backyard can be.

Whole Grain Waffles with Raspberry-Peach Sauce

The End of an Era

2009-09-03T08:08:00.009-04:00

For the past decade in the corner of our living room has set this lovely basket, a gift from my mother-in-law. It has been there dutifully containing all things needed for changing diapers. The sound of its lid dropping is as familiar as the sound of the door closing. By my estimation it's opened about six times a day and then shut again.

Lately, the basket has been a bit neglected. Big John has nearly completed his training. I have to admit that after nearly thirteen years of changing little pants, I am a bit saddened by the whole thing. There's just something precious about those little legs and dimpled bottoms that I'm going to miss. But in another way it is a time of celebration. Independence. Growth. An important phase of training completed.

I woke up Sunday afternoon from my nap to quite a surprise! The basket was packed for its first
official picnic. The kids had done it all themselves- sandwiches, fruit, vegetables and even fresh baked cookies.
Many people comment what it relief it must be to no longer have to buy diapers. Honestly, it's been a strain at times to purchase diapers month after month. I'm figuring we have spent $7000-$8000 on diaper supplies through the years. But you know what? There's no price tag for the songs that have been sung, the trust that has been built, the bellies that have been tickled and the toes that have been kissed through the simple act of changing a diaper. Those moments are priceless.

Multitasking

2009-08-25T20:45:00.004-04:00

At last. John and Rebekah playing together while we do school.

I've been of the opinion that multitasking is a woman's duty. You know what I mean- talking on the phone, checking email on the laptop, putting on a bandaid, scribbling a note to tell a child to practice the piano, cooking dinner and unloading the dishwasher at the same time. I mean, it's a necessity. Right?

Now translate that into a homeschool scenario- giving a spelling quiz to the 4th grader, getting out playdough for the preschoolers, helping the 6th grader with story problems while searching the Web for that elusive multiplication game. That's just a one room school house, right?

At the end of the last school year, I felt a bit frazzled. I was not so much burnt out and ready to quit, but rather on my last nerve trying to meet everyone's needs at the same time. I had instructed my children, that's true. But had I checked for understanding? Patiently answered their questions? Engaged them? Looked them in the eye? Acknowledged their achievements? Sadly, the answer would be no.

This frazzled state was carrying over into my housework as well. I could go room to room tidying up, but never get anything truly accomplished. I was moving the same piles around the house and never actually doing anything productive with them. I just about drove myself crazy. Why couldn't I just get it together? Oh, did I mention, that I was checking Facebook, blogging and cooking dinner while doing housework?

Worse yet, this frazzled existence was seeping over to my children. I telling them, "Do this, this, this and that and come see me when your done." Meanwhile, I would interrupt them while they were trying their best in order to add to their list. Craziness.

This summer I spent considerable time taking a step back to take an honest look at my life. I read several books on homeschooling, time management, household management.... These all basically pointed to the same problem.

There is no such thing as multitasking done well.

The time and focus it takes to balance so many plates at once is counterproductive to getting anything done and done well. Life is better spent (and more glorifying to God) when lived with purpose. People become the priority in place of activity.

So that's my mantra for this school year. (Borrowing from the title of a book I read) "Say Yes To No." Saying "No" to the expectations to get more done faster and "Yes" to accomplishing the one or two tasks in front of me.

To the best of my abilities, I'm striving not to multitask. When dinner needs fixed, I invite a friend in to help me and we do it quickly together. When the phone rings during school, I let the answering machine do its job. When someone needs a bandaid, I stop where I am to find out what happened. When it's time to clean, I engage the troops and we stick to it for an hour.

Life's not perfect, but there's a balance being established that has long been missing.

"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart..." Colossians 3:23

Summer of History Part 2

2009-08-19T20:06:00.006-04:00

Though we'd been following Sean around, he hadn't had the chance to just relax and play with us this summer. We planned to make his last trip a vacation for the family. We got away for five nights to (of all places) Detroit. His meeting was at the end of the week so we took the first few days to explore the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village.

All I can say is that we were blown away. We spent about 16 hours there and only experienced a fraction of what was offered.

Henry Ford was not only a great inventor, but also a lover of history. He saw the value of not only appreciating, but understanding those who had gone before for him in order to learn and grow personally. His dream was to make the great men and women of America accessible for others to learn as well. Therefore, he physically moved buildings, vehicles, artifacts and exhibits to Dearborn, Michigan and built a living history village, as well as a museum to house these incredible items. Everything to be seen had a unique impact of Ford or his wife. He went to any length to see it preserved.

Like I said, we only skimmed the surface during our visit there. This was due in part to the children's attention spans, but more due to sheer lack of time. Since we purchased a membership, we are headed back there for Fall Break.

The Ford Museum, as expected, was host to about every make of Ford vehicle. Also displayed were many models of airplanes with histories of famous flights, the limos that JFK and Reagan were shot in, the chair that Lincoln sat in when he was assassinated, makes/models of household appliances throughout history, a one-of-a kind home of the future from 1945 (for mass production after WWII, but never produced).

Working on the assembly line

Taking flight

We designed our own airplanes and made them fly (or not)

There was an endless amount of Kinex to build cars and them test them on different surfaces

In Greenfield Village we attended several mini plays where we met some true to life characters (Slave stories and songs, Huckleberry Fin, Wright Brothers, Thomas Edison, Teacher in Ford's one room schoolhouse). We watched a well done musical production featuring the songs of George Gershwin. We ate at and authentic meal from the mid 1800s. We rode on a steam engine, model T, carousel and horse drawn cart. We walked through a plantation house, 1700s English cottage, George Washington Carver's log cabin, the Wright Brothers' Bicycle Shop, Edison's labs.... Possibly the highlight for me was hearing the only working phonograph left made by Edison.

I think he looks a bit like Thomas Edison, don't you?

Bike Shop

Escaping with the slaves. "Come along Pinky. John's got a map."

Heirloom tomatoes and possibly the best blueberry muffin on the planet

More 1800s food. Some even liked the pickled eggs. "They only taste pink on the outside."

There are many more pictures, but that is for another day.

Summer of History Part 1

2009-08-15T22:27:00.008-04:00

I did not particularly like history as a subject in school. It always seemed so dry and rote. Each day was just a walk down the time line with a lot of names and numbers to remember. I did have an American history teacher in high school, though, who loved a good conspiracy theory. My dad is an avid student of history from wars to his own genealogy.

Perhaps this is how I became fascinated with the fact that history involves the lives of countless people each with their own unique stories to tell. Realizing that God is the One who is working in it all gives profound meaning to the story of mankind.

That being said, I love showing my kids history upfront and personal. I teach them history from a textbook, but trust me, it is much more exciting when we get to interact with the information first hand! Here are some history highlights from our travels this summer. I think it reinforced what some had already learned while opening the eyes of those who are yet to study these parts of history.

Our first stop was Springfield, IL where Abraham Lincoln was a lawyer, established his family and served as a state representative.

The Lincoln home. The entire block has been preserved with houses to be toured. We even got to see where the Lincoln's favorite babysitter lived:)

Lincoln's desk where he wrote many of his famous speeches and wrote correspondence during the Civil War.

Campaigning in Lincoln's day.

The Lincoln boys' marbles. Makes me want to reconsider how quickly I throw out
toys sometimes.

The actual museum did not allow photography except for in two areas. The atrium and the kid's hands on area.

Us with the wax Lincolns. John is not quite sure what to make of his friend there.

Betsy, the butter churner

It was an amazing experience to walk through the exhibit of Lincoln's life. It began in
a replica of the log cabin and ended at his funeral. Everything was replicated to a tee. It made us feel like we were really there.

In addition there were several special effect movies and a play that explained clearly the history of the civil war and some of the artifacts in the Lincoln Presidential Library. Presidential Libraries house books, of course, but they are also a private museums for any artifact related to that President's life. Incredible.

My favorites: Seeing Abe's hat (behind glass, of course), looking into his shaving mirror and being able to touch the casts made of his face at the beginning of his Presidency and at the end. There was a clear change in his countenance.

I was also struck by the personal tragedy that Lincoln faced in the midst of our country's greatest trial. I have always been fascinated by Lincoln's wife, Mary Todd, as she has often been depicted as a crazy woman. The exhibit was an honor to them both and their sacrifice for our country.

Catching up

2009-08-13T22:59:00.002-04:00

This has been an amazing summer for our family. Sean has been traveling across the Midwest with us on his tail. While he has been teaching teachers about technology, we've been seeing having some wonderful times of learning and visiting with friends. Thankfully, his work has usually ended around 4 so we've been able to have some quality family time all together.

That life has now come to a screeching halt. Sean is back to school. We have opened up the books again. After the initial dust settles, I think we're in for a fruitful change of pace.

I have so much to share on this blog about summer 2009. This blog is for my childrens' sake and I'd hate to skip over some of the highlights that they someday may want to remember more clearly. So bear with me for a while while I saturate you with pictures and stories.

On a side note: I'm wanting to get some of my blog published in book form as a keepsake. Have any of you ever done this and if so what was your experience? I'd appreciate anything you might be able to share. Thanks!

Love Languages

2009-08-01T21:59:00.005-04:00

Fast forward one year.

School will begin in a week. We'll be shopping for school supplies, making sure there are shoes that fit, sucking the last life out of summer's freedom.

We'll be hitting a milestone as a family, too. Our first little bird will be leaving the nest to attend school outside of our home. The next year it will be another. And so it will go on.

I've been thinking a lot about what that day will be like. What is it that we need to accomplish this year to prepare for the next stage? What ground have we not covered academically, spiritually, emotionally, socially?

I'm no fool to think that there is a magic formula or a simple checklist. God has directed and equipped us. We've applied ourselves to the task- sometimes with great failure and other times with success. She belongs to the Lord. He will take her through her own roads of this life. We are trusting Him for the results.

The one thing has been on my heart recently is the need to focus on our relationship in this coming year. It is so hard at times to span the gap of ages. A three year old has drastically different needs than a preteen. It is very difficult to take off my micromanaging toddler hat and relax enough to actually listen and exchange ideas with the older kids. It would be much easier to treat them as one unit. I am guilty of this at times, yet they are growing into young ladies with their own opinions and dreams. The days of constant care are gone. Now is the time to build them up and send them out.

For this reason The Five Love Languages Of Teenagers caught my eye at the library. I was thinking that I'd just skim it through. I know my kids already, right? And certainly they know they are love.

Wow, has it been not only convicting, but instructive. It has made me much more aware of body language and responses that I am given. More than that, though, this book has brought to light my own assumption that each one of them interprets my love the same way. This simply is not true. Moreover, the things that I do not do (or do poorly- like tone of voice) actually has a negative effect on their perceptions of my love.

I've spent some time this week just asking them randomly about some of the content of this book. I've asked them two questions: "When do you feel most loved- the kind of love that makes you smile later when you think about it?" and "When/ or what has happened when you are not sure of my love for you?" They were honest with me and I am excited about the conversations that resulted.

Yes, we still have 180 of school to work through this year. There are still some loose ends that need to be tied up. But in the short time that I've been trying to love them a bit more intentionally, the response has been joyful for both of us.

Big Boy

2009-07-30T23:04:00.003-04:00

John,

All day long I've been hugging you extra hard and kissing your soft little cheeks as much as humanly possible. I'm filled with thankfulness for having loved and known you another year. I can't believe that tomorrow you will turn three! You've grown in so many ways this past year.

I know that you will remember this part of your life through pictures and the stories your brother and sisters will share with you. But just for the record, this is how I'll remember you as a two year old.

- You are notorious for finding your way into other people's beds at night. You find the warmest, coziest spot and then spread out. Many a cricked neck and sore arm have resulted. Secretly, we all love it.

- You love to hug and kiss. You often stop while walking by to squeeze my leg and say, "Love you, mommy." Whenever you accidentally hurt someone, you nearly assault them with kisses!

- You are currently obsessed with pennies. You found a box of them that Grandma brought over and now they are spread about the house. We can hear you coming from a distance because you jingle with about a hundred of them in your pockets. We can also hear your cries of distress when you drop them on the floor.

- You're a funny guy. You tell your own version of jokes and crack yourself up!

- Your favorite toy is a tiny stuffed duck that you affectionately call, "Dee Dee." You also love rockets. You count down from five and blast all over the house while running in circles and spraying spit everywhere.

- You've learned to sit quietly in church this year and even pray when asked before a meal.

John, God surely gave us a most precious gift when He made you. I'm sorry I'm going to be such a sap every year when it's your birthday. It's not because I think you are a baby, but because I am so overwhelmed at what a privilege it is to be a mom to such children. As you grow, a chapter is closed in our family while many more are still being written.

Goodnight, sweet baby. Happy Birthday.

Love,
Mom

Yes, I will blog again

2009-07-27T21:48:00.002-04:00

For those of you who for some unknown reason still stop by my blog I'm here to assure you that I will be back. I miss blogging and look forward to a steady return once we find a routine around here.

Where have I been?

1. Waiting patiently for the return of my laptop which crashed. This means blogging requires that I located to the upper corner away from the rest of the family on a very s.l.o.w. computer.

2. Following Sean around to his various speaking engagements. We've been to Chicago and Springfield, IL. Next week we are off to Michigan.

3. Enjoying an extended family reunion time with my family. 10 adults+ 15 kids+ five days= a whole lot of fun!

4. Slowly, but surely, getting the house in order and preparing for our school year to begin. 13 days!

5. Reading a lot of library books. After paying down our mammoth fine, we now have access to the wonder of books again. A lot of my reading has been about simplifying, living intentionally and better relating to my family in the midst of my responsibilities. Perhaps this has something to do with less blogging.

6. Loving extra time with Sean. Even though he's often busy working on his text book project, we've been able to slip away for a few lunches together and some fun times with the kids. We've certainly enjoyed some great movies once the kids are in bed.

All that to say, it's been a busy, yet, wonderful summer. If your still there, please leave a comment to just say "hi". It would make me feel better:)

A day in the life...

2009-07-13T22:02:00.002-04:00

I was reminded recently that we, as women, though loving to relate, rarely take the time to really listen or respond rightly to one another. Perhaps it is a reflection of the busy worlds we juggle. Perhaps it is that everyone is always putting on their best faces so the conversations stay shallow. Perhaps it is because we've already placed value on the other person's words before they even speak. Perhaps we are too busy thinking of our next contribution to the conversation. As a result, our careless words and lack of empathy more than often hurt rather than heal. Though I doubt this is ever the intent, it nonetheless results in deep wounds.

I know of instances when I've been guilty of this very thing. And sadly, I know there are many, many times I have not even been selfless enough to recognize it. There are probably people who would never confide in me now because of my recklessness and unguarded words.

It's true that I will never be able to know all that goes on in another's life, nor should I. Sometimes their struggles are private, but must be lived out in the public eye. I can even hear of my friend's pain and pray for them, but I can never truly know what they are going through.

In order to support others, I've decided to begin reading biographical accounts of those who have gone through similar experiences. These authors have come out on the other side of some difficult circumstances and have an important message. My prayer is that in some small way by reading these books I might walk a day in another person's shoes. I desire to be a good listener and to minister words of life when needed.

So far I've read:

Postpartum Depression- Why I Jumped by Tina Zahn

Autism- A Child's Journey out of Autism by Leann Whiffen

Miscarriage- A Deeper Shade of Grace by Bernadette Keaggy

Growing up with a disabled parent - In the Shadow of Polio: A personal and social history
by Kathryn Black

I'm looking for worthwhile biographies about:

Step Parenting

Infertility

Breast Cancer

Chronic Pain/Illness

I welcome any suggestions you all may have.