The Next Step

7 Quick Takes (Volume 168)

noreply@blogger.com (Tami Boesiger) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 06:00:00 +0000

1) Kevin and I were walking through an antique mall when suddenly he pulled up close behind me, his mouth near my ear, leaned over my shoulder, pointed to a cross stitched picture and softly read its sentiment.

Kevin: Every little thing she does is magic.

Me (thinking it a fun, flirty moment and trying to play along): I just can't help it.

Kevin: Is that a nice way of saying your wife's a witch?

Way to kill the mood, bub. Thanks a lot.

2) I have set a new record! Would you believe I spent 4 and a half hours on the phone one night this week? That's 4.5 HOURS! In one sitting! That may be something no woman in her right mind should admit. In my defense, I must tell you it was my college roommate who I've seen only once since college, and that was 13 years ago. We only talk a few times a year. Perhaps we should do it more often for shorter spurts, but I'm not sure that would help. Now that our kids are not hanging all over us while we're trying to talk, there's no stopping us. Rest assured our discussion was enlightening and meaningful and thought-provoking and profound and encouraging and I'm pretty sure we solved all of the worlds problems. Love you, Penny.

3) Kevin and Ladies Man are still working hard at their P90X routine. Ladies Man is seeing new definition in his triceps and Kevin pointed out a new line in his side that hints of toner abs. Oh brother. It hardly seems fair. I've been working out regularly since 1994 and have seen improvement in myself over the years, but seeing positive effects in one week? Can your life get any easier when only 6 DAYS of commitment brings positive results?

It's like when men decide to diet and lose twice the weight a woman would. And they probably cheated at least three times in one week. And ate Cheetos. And Little Debbies. Meanwhile, women starve themselves for a month to see any measurable difference and feel guilty for craving a candy kiss. Totally unfair.

But I'm not bitter. Really.

4) Speaking of P90X, Miss Innocent One and I joined them for a 90 minute yoga session yesterday and I thought we kept up very well. Miss Innocent One is quite flexible! Can I hear a whoop, whoop for girl power?! But 90 minutes is a LOT of yoga! I don't know if it was the hippy music in the background or the slow movements and holds, but I thought we'd never get done. The first half was tons and I mean TONS of up and down planks and runner's stretches and upward dogs and downward dogs, lifting and holding legs in places they were never meant to be held. Then we moved on to balance positions where I heard myself saying, "You're supposed to put what where? How in the world are you supposed to do that? My leg won't go that way. How LONG must we hold this? Is this ever going to be over?"

Finally after what seemed like HOURS of getting too acquainted with my own body, we started the slowing down, cooling exercises which involved "the corpse." You lay flat on your back and relax your entire body.

This is my favorite part of yoga.

And then at the very end, we were supposed to release our energy in some way and the host suggested vocalizing some kind of sound. I don't think we did this part quite right, as Kevin started hollering like a crazy man and I was yelling, "Hallelujah! We're finally done!" Somehow I'm not sure that was the calming energy we were supposed to be expelling.

But we completed the 90 minutes and I'm pretty sure I'll have a new ripple somewhere today. It seems to work for the boys.

5) I got an anonymous letter in the mail yesterday. I've had some not so nice anonymous letters in the past, so they make me wary. When Kevin handed it to me he said, "Uh oh. What is this?" I braced myself as I slid the letter opener into the envelope. Inside was a tiny piece of paper.

I'm not sure if you'll be able to read this, but they are clippings about discounts offered at our local Salvation Army. Remember when I was jabbering about the weird discount Kevin got there a few weeks ago? (See #2.) The last line of the bottom paper reads "20% off total sale for persons 19 to 54 years of age." It was a legitimate discount! I laughed out loud, I tell you!

I don't know which of you sent me this, but thank you. I found it hysterical. And now I am well informed.

6) I'm missing Drama Queen and Drummer Boy this week. It's stupid, really, as they are less than an hour's drive away. I am such a putz. But I love you guys!

7) We have a pretty low-key weekend planned. Pretty excited about it, actually. I may be home most of the day on Saturday. Do you hear the angels singing? Wait, Kevin says angels don't sing in the Bible (which is why God desires our praises). They are always SAYING Glory to God in the highest. Hmmm, maybe I should research that a little before our next yoga session. If you can't get good energy release imitating angels, where can you get it?

And with that, I think I should be done before I say something that may warrant an anonymous letter. Have a terrific weekend, friends, and find more Quick Takes at Conversion Diary.

To Those Who Are Victorious

noreply@blogger.com (Tami Boesiger) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:00:00 +0000

I'm not a big fan of the book of Revelations. There's so much I can't figure out. The imagery, the scenes I can't comprehend, the creatures beyond description--they make me feel stupid. So when I came to the end of my Read-Through-the-Bible-in-a-Year plan, I wasn't looking to forward to my last week. I dreaded wading through stuff I didn't understand.

But as is often the case, God surprised me.

Right away he gave me exactly what I needed. The end of the year with its non-stop activities and expectations, sapped me. I wanted to hide away for weeks, far from responsibilities and needs and people. I wanted a break from life. And then I read these in one of my least favorite books of the Bible.

To everyone who is victorious I will give fruit from the tree of life in the paradise of God. (2:7)

Whoever is victorious will not be harmed by the second death. (2:11)

To everyone who is victorious I will give some of the manna that has been hidden away in heaven. And I will give to each one a white stone, and on the stone will be engraved a new name that no one understands except the one who receives it. (2:17)

To all who are victorious, who obey me to the very end, to them I will give authority over all the nations. They will rule the nations with an iron rod and smash them like clay pots. They will have the same authority I received from my Father, and I will also give them the morning star! (2:26-28)

All who are victorious will be clothed in white. I will never erase their names from the book of Life, but I will announce before my Father and His angels that they are mine. (3:5)

All who are victorious will become pillars in the Temple of my God, and they will never have to leave it. And I will write on them the name of my God, and they will be citizens in the city of my God--the new Jerusalem that comes down from heaven from my God. And I will also write on them my new name. (3:12)

Those who are victorious will sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat with my Father on His throne. (3:21)

Though I don't grasp it completely, those who are victorious are in store for some pretty awesome things, don't you think? If I can hang in there I will eat from the tree of life. I will have authority. I will never leave His Temple. I will sit with Jesus on His throne! It blows my mind.

And motivates me to get up again and keep going.

To those who are victorious . . . great blessing. I will persevere.

Does this motivate you to press on?

Photo Credit: SantiMB

Are Women Less Valuable to God?

noreply@blogger.com (Tami Boesiger) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 06:00:00 +0000

I've often thanked God I was not born in Bible times. Women in that time period were treated almost like property. I am always taken aback when I read of the strangers coming to Lot's door, asking to sleep with the men visiting and Lot says, "Look, I have two daughters who have never slept with a man. Let me bring them out to you, and you can do what you like with them. But don't do anything to these men, for they have come under the protection of my roof." (Genesis 19:8) What?! Shouldn't a daughter expect the same protection from her father?!

If one read the Old Testament alone, it would be easy to say that God doesn't value women. But Christianity is based on Christ and the New Testament suggests otherwise. When I was in college, I did a research paper on women in the Bible and came to the conclusion that while mankind in general didn't give women respect, Jesus did. God in the flesh gives women great significance.

God could have brought His Son into the world in any way, but He chose to use a woman. Does that not speak volumes? Jesus had many gracious encounters with women, some His society wrote off--the woman who'd been bleeding for 12 years, the woman at the well, the woman accused of adultery the Pharisees wanted to stone. He established meaningful relationships with women. And perhaps as significant as the method of His birth, after His resurrection He appeared FIRST to women!

There's value for you, ladies!

Yet sometimes it's frustrating being a woman. Never mind the fluctuating hormones which wreak havoc on our delicate sensibilities. There are certain limitations put on women in God's Word. There's the whole submission issue in marriage I'm not about to touch today (but you can click here to see what I have written before). The one that annoys me from time to time is His command for women to be under the authority of men. Now I'm no women's libber. I completely subscribe to God's hierarchy, knowing it is for His order and purpose and my protection, but sometimes it's disappointing.

Once I was asked to substitute for a couples' Sunday School class. My heart skipped a beat when the teacher asked, thrilled to have the opportunity to take a crack at it. I knew I could get a lively discussion going. I knew I had something to offer on the chosen subject. I had experience and desire and a bit of knowledge. I knew I could get the job done. But I had to turn him down because Scripture clearly states "I do not permit a woman to teach or have authority over a man . . ." (1 Timothy 2:12) Sigh. It didn't seem fair. Everything in me wanted to teach that class. The only reason I couldn't was because I was a woman.

I suppose I could scream for justice. I could push the envelope and worm my way into places God doesn't want me being, but what good would that do? How does that display the "gentle and quiet spirit" He praises? I may not like it, but God limits me some because I am a woman. I can whine about it, or I can accept His plan, trusting His way is best.

I can let Him be God and follow.

“We are women, and my plea is Let me be a woman, holy through and through, asking for nothing but what God wants to give me, receiving with both hands and with all my heart whatever that is.”

Elisabeth Elliot

I can't go against His natural order and expect His blessing. I choose instead to remember how valuable women are to Him and trust His love to lead me where He needs me most. Women ARE part of His divine plan and He treasures us. May we make His joy complete by doing it His way.

Do you feel limited by God? How will you fight that?

Want to see what others think of this quote? Visit Nina at Mama's Little Treasures.

Photo Credit: mharrsch

Beyond What I Deserve

noreply@blogger.com (Tami Boesiger) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 06:00:00 +0000

I am a blessed woman.

I don't know why. I'm nothing special. I'm a self-absorbed, obsessive, over-analytical, pleasure monger of a person. My thoughts are not always sweet. I complain. I whine over the minor and overlook His provisions and want more. I disappoint myself, and surely my heavenly Father, more than I'd like.

But my heart leans toward God. And for reasons I don't comprehend, He cleans me up, makes me new, gives me second chances. If this weren't enough, he lavishes me with His goodness, with beautiful relationships, genuine care and concern, inspiration, unending mercy. He gives me what I don't deserve.

I am a blessed woman.

How does one respond to such favor, to gifts I have no right to claim?

Go and do likewise.
Give as I have given to you.
Forgive and listen and be gracious.
Love as I have loved you.

If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus.

Philippians 2:1-5

I cannot repay God for all He has done for me, but I can follow His lead. I thank Him by loving His own.

Go and do likewise.

How will you thank God today?

Photo Credit Yogendra174

7 Quick Takes (Volume 167)

noreply@blogger.com (Tami Boesiger) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 06:00:00 +0000

1) Ladies Man: I was offended by this tv show I watched today. These guys were saying that men are turning into girls and they showed a picture of a guy in a flannel shirt, with a hair cut like mine, wearing a man purse as an example.

Ladies Man has become a fan of flannel shirts this winter, thus the rub.

Kevin: I heard testosterone levels are falling in men.

Me: Well, what do you do about that? Can you take a vitamin or something?

Ladies Man: Mom! Do you think I'm turning into a girl?!

Rest assured, my dear son, I do NOT think you are turning into a girl. Just curious.

2) Miss Innocent One needed some new sheets for her bigger bed. I saw a set on clearance because it had been repackaged and I pounced.

Me: Look at these cute sheets. Hot pink zebra print. Very cool. Wouldn't you like these?

Miss Innocent One: They're cute, but what else is there?

Wandering eyes found some polka-dots at regular price.

Miss Innocent One: I kind of like these.

Me: Yeah, but these are cheaper.

Miss Innocent One: Yeah . . .

She fingered the polka dots and I knew drastic measures were needed.

Me: Now think about this. The polka dots are fine, but the zebra screams, "Get up and face the day!" The polka dots will just encourage you stay in bed, but waking up to hot pink zebra print will make you go, "Rawr! Bring it on!"

She laughed at me, but stayed planted in front of the beloved polka dots. You cheap mothers of the world would be proud of me. I was relentless.

Me: And really, those dots don't even match your comforter. The zebra would be perfect.

Call me a monster mom if you want, but it worked and finally she gave in. I can do what it takes to save $8, I tell you. And honestly, wouldn't this make you want to tackle anything when you woke up?

3) Kevin and Ladies Man have been hitting it hard with P90X. Since I've been suggesting they may not complete it, they are more determined than ever. I figure losing this battle is really a win for me. I can deal with bulging pecs and washboard abs. Only 85 days to go!

4) I had a birthday this week and my kids used the opportunity to try to one up each other. Drummer Boy made it pretty tough with this status on Facebook:

"It's my mom's (Tami Boesiger) birthday today. If you don't know her than you haven't met one of the prettiest, patient, passionate, and preeminent women that God has put on this planet. Love you, Mom."

Of course Drama Queen voiced her frustration:

"Ok, Drummer Boy! Make it so that the rest of the children can't top you. Ya friggin' jerk."

But she melted my heart too with her own wish:

"Ok, so now that your stupid firstborn child ruined all hope of any of the rest of your children giving you a better birthday wish than him......Happy birthday, Mom!! Love you so much! Hope you get a chance to relax today :) See you Saturday!! :D"

Even Miss Innocent One got in on it with this:

"Hey, I cleaned the kitchen...but yes, you made that very hard to top."

5) Joy of all joys we did something this week we've never done before. Hit a deer. Isn't this pretty?

Thankfully no one was hurt, apparently not even the deer. We couldn't locate it afterwards, but left remnants of our van in the ditch to inflict guilt on the stupid thing if he decides to wander back to the scene of the crime.

6) Drama Queen was sick away from home for the first time this week. I discovered advantages and disadvantages to this situation. On the minus side, I wasn't there to make sure she did the right things to get better, but on the plus side I didn't have to hear the coughing and sneezing or get up in the middle of the night to find the kleenexes or throat lozenges. I felt bad for her, but there was freedom in not having to deal with it.

Maybe I am monster mom.

7) As a special treat for my birthday, my husband is taking me to our favorite local getaway this weekend. Yesterday as he sidled up to me, slipping an arm around my waist and purring, "I can't wait for tomorrow," Miss Innocent One sat on the kitchen counter observing the whole scene. As Kevin and I parted, she gave me a knowing smile.

Me: What's that about? Why are you smiling?

Miss Innocent One: You guys are just cute together.

So now I'm off to be cute with my husband all by ourselves. I hope you all enjoy your weekend as much as I plan on enjoying mine. If you're looking for some laughs, check out more Quick Takes at Conversion Diary.

Wants and Needs

noreply@blogger.com (Tami Boesiger) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 06:00:00 +0000

God doesn't give us what we want.

I want relief.
I want the easy way out.
I want things to work out the way I imagine.
I want instant answers and healing and solutions that makes sense.
I want happiness and nights uninterrupted by anxiety and harmony in my home at all times.
I want my husband to find me irresistible, my children to hang on my every word and people everywhere to find me perfectly charming.

But God loves me too much to give me what I want. He gives me what I need.

I need humility, painful molding which is no fun, no fun at all, but necessary.
I need to learn patience, and, MAN, is it annoying.
I need trust, requiring a track record of scary situations.
I need faith, built by believing above all odds, though I don't see.
I need to learn obedience, acquired one difficult choice at a time.
I need to be sacrificial, putting others ahead of myself.

Why must what I want be so different than what I need? He's shaping me into something better, something grander than I can imagine. How can I be upset about that?

Do you wish God would give you what you want instead of what you need? Ever think there must be a reason?

. . . your Father knows what you need . . .

Matthew 6:8

Join Laurie at Women Taking a Stand for more Thankful Thursday posts.

Photo Credit: Kathy Cassidy

God in the Ordinary

noreply@blogger.com (Tami Boesiger) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 06:00:00 +0000

It snowed on my birthday.

God in the ordinary.

The little girl stood on the back of the chair in front of her, leaning into her daddy's arms, her hair brushing his cheek, singing along loudly and proudly to the praise choruses in church. I couldn't help but smile seeing God capture the young girl's heart, watching His love flow from her little body, bringing joy to her parents, those sitting around her, anyone who saw.

God in the ordinary.

She showed me the animal trails as we walked. We listened for the trickle of water in the creek, soaked in the sunshine, inhaled clean, cool air. Pure. Lovely. Refreshing.

God in the ordinary.

Rushing off to the next activity after a long day of projects, I wrapped the hunk of hamburger too quickly and put it in the fridge. The blood that leaked everywhere overnight was not a welcome sight on a Monday morning, my crammed day of the week. But it got me going early, got me motivated to tackle my new week's to-do list, showed me it wasn't the end of the world.

God in the ordinary.

Just when I felt tired, worn, spent, old, he brought home a new dress, in my favorite color and couldn't wait for me to try it on. How did he know? Did he understand what it would mean to me?

God in the ordinary.

As she told me of God's mercy to her, of how He prepared her for her father's death, I couldn't stop my eyes from misting. She recounted His goodness though she's suffered years of pain.

God in the ordinary.

The moon glowed large on the horizon, so large, one couldn't help but notice and know.

God in the ordinary.

My kids, a couple fully grown and a couple getting there, make a point to give me a hug, for any reason or no reason at all and it seems remarkable, these distinct, amazing individuals calling me "Mom," truly caring.

God in the ordinary.

I feel like I've lost my way and He speaks gently, clearly, consistently. Accept. My gifts are good. I give you what you need. Wait. A Book that is more than a book brings direction, peace.

God in the ordinary.

“If I can’t find God in the ordinary places of life, either I’m not looking hard enough or he’s not nearly as approachable as I need him to be. This is a paradox too. God appears in all the ordinary places, burning bushes, naked Barbies, plumbing disasters. But when he does, those places become holy. Moses had to take his shoes off.”

from an interview with Marcus Goodyear, Barbies at Communion

God is everywhere, in everything. We only need to look.

You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

Jeremiah 29:13

Where have you seen God in the ordinary?

Join my lovely friend, Cindy, for her take on this quote and links to others.

Photo Credit: yeimaya

A Peek Into Me

noreply@blogger.com (Tami Boesiger) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 06:00:00 +0000

Marriage Monday has been on hiatus for the holidays, but we're back today with a challenge from e-Mom to let people in on the real us (as if this has ever been a problem for bloggers). We're supposed to finish the following sentences to reveal a peek into our heads. So sit back, friends, and find out everything you've never wanted to know about me. (Should I say I'm sorry?)

I am….. too easily lost in my head and emotions.

I want….. to do great things for God.

I have….. four children who have changed me for the better.

I wish….. I could succinctly explain to others how I spend my time.

I hate….. to watch or listen to people brush their teeth. Ew!

I miss….. the carefree days of childhood.

I fear….. losing my husband or children.

I feel….. wimpy and weak most of the time.

I hear….. blessed silence when working in my office and treasure it.

I smell….. almonds (cause I'm munching on them right now!).

I crave….. ice cream and chocolate.

I search….. for ways to see God.

I wonder….. if I'll ever accomplish the dreams in my heart.

I regret….. nothing. There are no mistakes. God uses all, even my bad choices, to teach me.

I love….. my husband. SO. VERY. MUCH. I hate to think of life without him.

I ache….. for those who suffer.

I care….. too much about what people think of me, but I'm working on it.

I always….. drink hot beverages while working on my computer.

I am not….. particularly gifted at anything, but can do an adequate job of a lot of things.

I believe….. God makes good out of everything.

I dance….. like a klutz, but find it very romantic.

I sing….. to connect with God.

I cry….. when I see God at work.

I don’t always….. keep my mouth in check. Boo.

I fight….. myself too much.

I write….. when I'm depressed or confused.

I never…. think what I've done is good enough.

I listen….. to others and enjoy it immensely.

I need….. lots of quiet time.

I am happy….. when I think about all God has done in my life.

Hopefully that wasn't too painful. If not, maybe you'd like to get to know some of the other Marriage Monday bloggers. You can read about them at Chrysalis.

Have a great day, friends!

7 Quick Takes (Volume 166)

noreply@blogger.com (Tami Boesiger) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 06:00:00 +0000

1) We were discussing which would be better, having a high paying job that took you away from home a lot, or having a modest income that kept you home all the time.

Ladies Man: Yeah, Dad, you should get a huge salary. That'd be awesome.

Me: No way. He'd never be here. That wouldn't be worth it.

Drama Queen: Mom would die if Dad were gone all the time.

Yes. My children know me.

2) Last weekend Kevin and I shopped our local Salvation Army and found a funky little chair he plans to put in a studio he's creating in our house (I think he envies my office sanctuary, wanting one of his own. He says it'll keep him home more to work, so I'm all for it.). Anyway, we thought the chair a steal at $20, but when Kevin went to pay for it the lady gave his total as $17.12.

Kevin: Is it on sale?

Clerk (whispering): There's a 20% discount for anyone who's NOT a senior citizen today.

Kevin thought himself lucky, but the more I thought about it, the more I wondered about his "discount."

Me: Who ever heard of a discount for people who AREN'T senior citizens? Doesn't that strike you as a bit odd?

Kevin: I don't know. She did say it real quiet so no one else could hear.

Me: She made it up! She just gave some lame excuse to give you a discount!

What say you? Does a discount for those who AREN'T senior citizens sound legit or was she looking for a reason to give him a deal?

3) We went to a belated Christmas get together the other night, and a woman there kept going on and on about how cute Ladies Man is. When we told him about it later, he responded simply.

Ladies Man: The Boesiger curse.

You may remember me talking about this strange phenomena among the male members of our household (see #4). For some unknown reason, they all attract older women.

Perhaps this explains a 20% discount for those who are NOT senior citizens?

4) Hallelujah, Glory Be and Praise the Lord! After much personal angst and frustration, Miss Innocent One and I finally finished her sewing project (see #4). I believe the defining moment came in the next to the last step as we sewed the lining of the bag to the outer shell of the bag. We could barely contain our excitement as we turned it right side out, but to our horror, the straps were missing. We sewed them in between the lining and the bag! After some growling and heavy breathing, we figured out how to remedy the situation and got the bag finished. Needless to say, I think it will be a while before either one of us is ready to tackle another sewing project.

I can't decide whether she should take this bag to school or not. She kind of wants to show her Family Consumer Science teacher what we tackled, but I know we didn't do a great job.

Me: You can take it only if you don't say anything about the super glue we used.

Yeah. I'm such a professional.

5) Drama Queen and Drummer Boy are back to college. It hit me full force as I set the table for dinner Monday night and realized we only needed four plates. *sniff*

I was checking some things on their college website and noticed that they're signed up for the same course in different sections. They were not even aware of it.

Who says Mama don't know all? And don't you forget it, kids!

6) Congratulations to Miss Innocent One who made the University of Nebraska at Omaha's Middle School Honor choir!

She was one of only two 7th graders from our school that made it (the other being our good friend).

7) And here's one for all you mothers, sick of your children thinking you're much less capable than they are at anything.

Ladies Man is on a new kick to go through the P90X fitness routine. I've heard him wax poetic about how he's going to get "ripped" so many times in so many ways, it's hard for me to take him too seriously and even tougher for me to shell out any money towards it. Luckily our generous friends are letting us borrow their DVDs. Kevin said he'd join him and they've been planning their fitness adventure all week.

Me: When are you going to do this?

Ladies Man: 6:AM!

Me (flabbergasted that Kevin agreed to anything at that hour of day): Really?

Kevin: I guess so.

Me: In that case, maybe I should join you every once in a while, save me a trip to the Y.

Ladies Man (raising a doubtful eyebrow): Mom, this is extreme.

Me: Hello?! I'm the only person in this household who exercises regularly.

Ladies Man: But this is extreme.

Me (getting agitated): I think I know that! I did a session of boot camp. I get it.

Ladies Man: Yeah, well this is like, well, probably like boot camp.

Kevin (trying to defend me): Which she finished.

Ladies Man: Well, you gotta do incline push ups and stuff. I'm gonna do some right now.

He ran into the living room, grabbed a chair and got into position.

Ladies Man: I'll do ten.

After push-up #5, he quit.

Me: Let me try it.

He didn't even watch me until I got past 5.

Me: 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 . . . how many should I do?

Kevin: That's enough. Let me try.

Kevin gave it a shot and got to 8. 8! How's that for GIRL POWER?! Of course, all I got from Ladies Man is that I didn't have my feet in the right position and he was the only one who was using the correct technique. Grrrrr. Is it bad for me to want to show this kid up? I could do it. Or would that be thwarting his masculinity or something? Would it scar his developing manhood?

Whatever. I can think of lots of other things I'd rather do at 6:AM anyway.

And that's all for this fine Friday, friends! I hope you have a stellar weekend and catch more Quick Takes at Conversion Diary.

For My Health

noreply@blogger.com (Tami Boesiger) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 20:33:00 +0000

I've spent the last few years working really hard to become healthier. I've changed the way I eat. I'm pickier about what I put in my body. I've expanded my exercise routines and added running (an activity I've always stunk at) to my exercise regimen. And I do feel healthier, stronger, more flexible. My physical health has definitely improved, but when the last few months of 2011 left me feeling exhausted, battered, and worn, I had to ask myself what I'm doing wrong. How can someone who's worked so hard to be healthy still feel so tired?

Is it possible that in all my "doing" I've ignored my emotional health? Can depleting your emotional tank wear a person out?

Oooh. It sounds a little egocentric to talk about, doesn't it? Tending to your emotional needs sounds self-absorbed, me-oriented. Yet I can't ignore how refreshing it was to take some time after Christmas to just "be" without "doing." I slept more, read more, hung out with my family more, watched some movies, took my time during my devotions in the morning. I felt like me again, without the burden of obligations or schedules. Instead of stewing over my to do list, I enjoyed myself.

And I felt more inclined to give back.

You know how they tell you on an airplane to put your oxygen mask on before helping another with theirs? Is the same true of taking care of our emotional selves? Why do I struggle with this when I've had no problem putting myself first physically? Is it because my physical regimen involved more discipline and self-sacrificing, while my emotional health feels self-indulgent?

But the rest, the calm . . . it's so sweet.

When I decided two years ago to work on my physical health, I did so out of a desire to be the best I could be for God, to eliminate obstacles to doing His work. Now I wonder if I am at my best when I do things only out of obligation. Could I do them better, faster, if my heart was in them? Would my heart be in them if I felt refreshed?

Will I always be able to capture time to tend to my emotional health? Probably not. But I build in time each week to exercise. Surely I can find places to relax and recharge too. Maybe not every day, but they need to be there.

For my health.

God's calling me to hide in Him, to rest in His presence, to soak in the simple joys He provides, like books for pleasure and getting lost in bunny trails of verses and puzzles and going to bed early. He's summoning me to relax a little and I am the glassy-eyed, tired lady stumbling to the Light.

I'm trying not to feel guilty about taking time for me. He says I need it. I already feel better. I wonder if it will actually make me stronger, more productive. And joyful. I'm going to give it a shot.

Do you sense it too, that calling to rest? Do you need to tend to your emotional health? Could it make you stronger?

Photo Credit: drp

What to Do When Life Chips Away

noreply@blogger.com (Tami Boesiger) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 06:00:00 +0000

I worry about my kids, money, disappointing others, getting it all done.

Schedules demand. Needs abound. Responsibilities pull. Illness strikes. My heart tugs with "I should"s, bringing exhaustion when I try and guilt when I don't.

Annoyances like broken cars and unfair criticism and freak accidents and disappointing glitches leave a crack, oozing out confidence and trust.

I fret over making a difference, not wanting to waste my time here on earth, leaving a legacy and pleasing God, and all the while the devil taunts, whispering in my ear that it's not enough.

I plug along, doing the next thing, but before long I find myself going through the motions, performing out of obligation and sheer perseverance.

Where is the joy?!

Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters . . .

Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of fare.

Give ear and come to me; hear me, that your soul may live. I will make an everlasting covenant with you, my faithful love promised to David.

Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near . . .

Let him turn to the Lord, and he will have mercy on him, and to our God, for he will freely pardon.

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,: declares the Lord.

You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace . . .

Isaiah 55:1-3,6-8, 12
(emphases mine)

Perhaps it's time to expend my energy in a different way.

Come.
Listen.
Hear.
Seek.
Call.
Turn.

All verbs. All action. All doing.

But all GOD focused. All a refuge from life and its accompanying drainers. All a way to hide away and recharge.

Is life chipping away at you? Do you wonder where your joy is?

Come. Listen. Hear. Seek. Call. Turn.

And you WILL go out in joy and be led forth in peace.

Photo Credit: Center for Invasive Species Research

7 Quick Takes (Volume 165)

noreply@blogger.com (Tami Boesiger) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 06:00:00 +0000

1) Drama Queen and Ladies Man attended Snowball last weekend, a dance that's bigger than prom in our little community. Here's Drama Queen with her date. This girl gets more beautiful every year. Of course if I tell her that I get, "Yeah, whatever!"

And here's Ladies Man with his date. You may remember them as Posture Princess and Backman from a few summers ago (see #2). Boy have these two changed.

Get a load of their shoes!

Of course anytime Drama Queen and Ladies Man are together, there has to be shenanigans (oh brother, do I sound 90 years old or what?!).

Let me say it for Drama Queen. CREEPER!

And they humored us with an obligatory picture with the 'rents.

2) Ladies Man grabbed the last of the cherry fluff salad, eating it out of the dish.

Kevin: What are you doing? What if somebody else wants some?

Ladies Man: Do you want some, darling?

Kevin: No thanks, sweetie.

Ladies Man: Okay, then, pumpkin.

Brings tears to the eyes, doesn't it?

3) Our "little friend" (see #4) has still been eating away in our pantry and we've been unable to catch him. He won't wander into the humane trap we set for him. Since our friends found their hamster and I was sick of throwing away food that has been nibbled on, I resorted to the good old fashioned trap (So sorry, Rachelle. Drastic measures were needed.). And now, for better or worse, problem solved.

Should I apologize to those of you with squeamish stomachs?

4) With a break from our normal routine, Miss Innocent One and I have been busy on some projects. First we repainted her room and moved a larger bed in for her. This picture actually shows the only wall we DIDN'T paint, but is a nice shot of her bed taken with her new ipod.

She got a mini sewing machine for Christmas, so we tackled a sewing project together too. This thing ended up being a little beyond us, but we persevered thus far to get this much done.

This is nearly two days work (and not yet finished), which tells you our level of expertise, but we've had fun doing it and hope to have a cool bag when we're finished.

5) Drummer Boy had a great time at the Capital One Bowl, even though the game was a downer. Here he is with his snare drum buddies, minus one guy who wasn't able to make the trip.

He came back with a tan which made me slightly jealous and tales of New Year's Eve at Universal Studios. Only a college kid would find it entertaining that a little kid nearly puked on him. It was a quick trip with little sleep, but full of goofiness as this picture illustrates.

I should give a shout out to Drummer Boy's friends who posted these on Facebook. Thank you!

And speaking of Facebook, Ladies Man called me out the other day about my online activity, insinuating that I was a creeper.

Me: Hey, I've been very upfront that the only reason I have Facebook is to stalk you guys. Besides, how would I ever get any pictures of Drummer Boy otherwise?

And believe it or not, there was no objection from Drummer Boy, just a chuckle. Yeah, I think he still likes his mommy. Even if I do stalk him on Facebook.

6) Me: Drama Queen, you missed the tutorial on checking your oil.

Drama Queen (unimpressed): Yeah?

Me: Dad showed the boys.

Drama Queen: It's a guy thing then.

Me: No. You need to know too.

Kevin: Yeah. Besides, if we were that manly we would have taken ours shirts off while we were doing it.

7) Oh boy, it's been hard to get back into my usual routine since the holidays. I've so enjoyed having my older kids home and find myself buying all kinds of junk food I normally wouldn't just because I want them to be happy to be here too. But alas, all good things must come to an end. Drummer Boy left last night and Drama Queen will leave Sunday. It will free up some time for me and I'm trying to focus on that positive, but I'm wondering if I'll ever lose that tug on my heart as they leave our house to live somewhere else. Growing pains are tough.

I hope you all have a glorious weekend. Catch more Quick Takes at Conversion Diary.

To Goal or Not to Goal?

noreply@blogger.com (Tami Boesiger) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 04:21:00 +0000

The year comes to a close. A new one begins and I find myself in a different mood this season. Usually I'm reflecting upon the last year, making goals for the next, but now I find myself wondering if it's necessary. You can't change the past. And the future . . . do I really have any say over that?

God's gonna do what God's gonna do, isn't He? Jesus said it plain and simple, "apart from Me you can do nothing."

So why we do we make lists of things to work on? Why do we resolve to do better? Why do we push ourselves and regiment our lives and batter our poor spirits when we don't accomplish what we think we should? Why do we live with the guilt of not being good enough and wallow in our weaknesses?

Has Satan tricked us into this mode of operation? Does he know we are easily distracted by our successes and failures? Does this roller coaster of self-improvement keep us focused on ourselves instead of an all powerful God?

Have I been spinning my wheels for years, thinking it's all on my shoulders? Have I accepted a burden He never meant for me to carry?

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

Matthew 11:28

I've been working too hard, striving, and feeling the exhaustion that comes with it. Something's gotta change and it starts with my focus. GOD does the work. Not me. I don't accomplish anything. Apart from Him I can do nothing. Nothing! Any real and lasting change must come through Him. He makes me a new creature. He transforms. My responsibility is to seek Him in prayer and His Word, obey what He tells me, and set myself in His presence. He does the rest.

for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.

Philippians 2:13

If my only resolution is to draw closer to God, will His Spirit bring about the change I desire?

What is your opinion about goal setting?

Photo Credit: babasteve

7 Quick Takes (Volume 164)

noreply@blogger.com (Tami Boesiger) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 06:00:00 +0000

1) There's been so much activity in the Boesiger home this week, I've completely neglected this blog. And it felt good, I tell you, to have a little break from the norm, to hang out with our families and lay around and watch movies and do sudoku puzzles and have all the chicks in the nest. It provided a much needed attitude adjustment for this girly.

2) And speaking of girlies, Kevin got so tired of Miss Innocent One's "You need to calm down, buddy" (see #3), that he found his own retort and gesture. Now he's harassing her with, "You need to calm down, girly," complete with a little flip of the hair motion. Miss Innocent One finds it so hysterical she nearly wets her pants every time.

3) Last month I posted pictures of my family at a birthday celebration for my mom, so I suppose it's only fitting to give you some family pics from Kevin's side of the family. Here's Kevin, his sisters and parents.

They decided the spouses could join in too.

You can't see my brother-in-law too good in this picture and Dad doesn't look his charming self, so here's another shot taken from what we called the "tower cam."

4) And here's the source of the "tower cam" aka Ladies Man.

5) Drama Queen has been dog/house sitting for a family this past week. She's been responsible for two dachshunds and a great dane who probably weighs as much as she does. She had a great time walking them in the unusually mild weather we've been having and showing them off to her friends. Each evening she and Ladies Man would go over and spend the night cuddled up with the dogs watching Office videos. And I was the happy mama who didn't have to buy her kids a puppy to give them a dog fix. A win-win situation. I almost feel like I should be the one shelling out the dough for that.

6) Remember this guy?

We were thrilled to have Drummer Boy home for an entire week. A WHOLE WEEK! It was so great having him around that I got teary eyed when we parted ways again, which is crazy because he lives at my MOTHER'S HOUSE, only 40 minutes away from us. Yes. I am pathetic.

But so proud of and happy for Drummer Boy who leaves at 4:15 AM! Friday morning with the Cornhusker band to attend the Capital One Bowl in Orlando. Lucky dog. If you're watching the game next Monday, look for him among the snare drummers.

7) And that's our week in a nutshell. It seems like I don't have much to show for it, but that was the point of the week. I hope your week was equally as low key and you don't do yourself in celebrating New Years.

Have a great weekend, friends, and take in more Quick Takes at Conversion Diary.

7 Quick Takes (Volume 163)

noreply@blogger.com (Tami Boesiger) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 06:00:00 +0000

1) The Boesiger house is alive with the sound of laughter and walrus roars (Ladies Man is enjoying his better audience in Drummer Boy and Drama Queen) and video games (they call it "bonding"--mmm hmmmm, whatever makes you feel at all productive). I've had all my kids home since Monday night and we're enjoying it immensely. Things stayed pretty tame since Ladies Man still had finals, but look out now, folks. Let the games begin. (Who am I kidding? The games began the moment Drummer Boy brought out his xbox.)

2) It's that time of year when concerts abound. Last Thursday brought one for Ladies Man. I'm sorry to say with him in the back row, I didn't get any good shots. Miss Innocent One had hers on Tuesday and this is the best of what I got. If you haven't figured it out already, I'm not much of a photographer. You think this girl is ready for Christmas vacation?

3) Something strange happens to Miss Innocent One when she is around her peers. She gets sassy, not in a mean way, but in a playful way, uttering things you wouldn't normally hear from her. For instance, lately she's taken to using the following phrase with her dad quite often.

Miss Innocent One: You need to calm down, buddy.

She says this with some sort of moustache gesture I don't understand and finds herself quite hysterical. Apparently her friends understand this as I saw a note she attached to a Christmas gift with a picture of a little guy trying to do the gesture and the caption, "You need to calm down, buddy."

And the funny thing is, her saying that has quite the opposite effect on her father. She seems to like pushing his buttons a little. I think it's because she always gets a reaction. You know how I always tell Drama Queen she makes it too easy? (See #4.) Yeah. Like father, like daughter.

4) During the Christmas season, it's our habit as a family to eat dinner by candlelight. I keep waiting for the kids to outgrow playing with the candles, but alas we're no where close. Drummer Boy and Ladies Man, now 21 and 16, still look for creative ways to blow out the candles. Ladies Man did his walrus roar, extinguishing three at a time. They both tried "bro-snapping" (don't ask me--it just looks weird) with little success. Ladies Man did some hand actions that reminded me of the The Force from Star Wars. It got so out of hand last night, that Ladies Man ended up spraying wax all over Drummer Boy's face and shirt.

So I guess if you see flames shooting from our dining room you may want to call the fire department. Our pyromaniacs were probably playing too hard.

5) Drama Queen was given a television, but it's a 33-inch screen we think is a bit much for her tiny dorm room. We offered to swap our smaller television with hers.

Kevin: Our TV would be more reasonable.

Drama Queen: Dad, when have I ever been reasonable?

No truer words were ever spoken!

6) We're looking forward to time with family over the weekend. We celebrate Christmas with Kevin's family tonight and mine on Sunday. Saturday we'll hang by ourselves. I am so ready to be to this point. I find the whole Christmas season quite stressful. The best part for me comes when everything is done and you can finally sit and enjoy those you love. Of course this will come after much cooking in the next few days, but hey, it's in my sights!

7) And with that I bid you adieu. May you have time to reflect on the significance of Jesus and His coming to earth. May you find a personal connection to Him in a new way. May you gain fresh understanding into what great love was shown in His coming.

Merry Christmas, my friends.

Find more Quick Takes at Conversion Diary.

The Gift of Emmanuel

noreply@blogger.com (Tami Boesiger) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 06:00:00 +0000

The Jews looked for a Savior, a Messiah, someone to free them from their bondage.

O come, o come Emmanuel
And ransom captive Israel
That mourns in lowly exile here
Until the Son of God appears
Are we that different? Often I feel trapped here on earth, exiled from Paradise until the Son of God appears. I mourn for something better. Yet the old song reminds me I have nothing to fear, nothing to grieve.

Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel.
Jesus came. And with Him brought new life for all who believe.

Oh come, Thou Dayspring, come and cheer
Thy people with Thine advent here;
Disperse the gloomy clouds of night
And death's dark shadows put to flight
Even death cannot separate me from the love of God.

Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel.
For those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.

O Come Thou Rod of Jesse, free
Thine own from Satan's tyranny
From depths of Hell Thy people save
And give them victory o'er the grave
Because He came, I have hope. I know this is not all there is. I know my future is secure. I may be banished for a time on earth, but one day I'll live with Him in Paradise.

Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel.

For more Thankful Thursday posts or to link up your own, visit Iris at Grace Alone.

A Mother's Special Grace

noreply@blogger.com (Tami Boesiger) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 06:00:00 +0000

I worry about my kids.

I want the best for them and this world can be a tough place to live. These years of transitioning kids to adulthood have proven to be the most difficult for me yet. I stew and I think too far ahead and I pray like crazy.

Lately I think of Mary, then feel guilty for my minor anxieties. Oh, how that woman must have suffered. When she was pondering in the stable, was Mary thinking about the future for her child? Did she have any clue what was ahead? Did she know she'd watch her Son, God's Son, be brutally beaten? Did she know people would say awful things and accuse Him unjustly? Did she know she'd watch him die?

I think of my kids and my petty concerns compared to hers. How did she survive those three days after His death? I would have been done in. I would have crawled in a ball and died myself. How did she do it? Did God give Mary special grace? What did He tell her those three days her heart broke? Did she remember what He said about rebuilding the temple? Did she understand? Or did she just endure?

I wish I knew, but I still take hope from her. If God gave Mary special grace to raise His child, won't He do the same for me? Aren't my children really His? Won't He provide what I need to be the mother my children need? Won't He help me trust Him and relieve my worries? He'll be there every step of the way, just as He was with Mary. His Word promises it.

He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.

Isaiah 40:11

Like Mary, I'll believe His Word. When I feel afraid, I'll cry out to Him. I'll do my best to be still and to listen and to ponder.

How will you be like Mary?

Photo Credit: :nick

Can We Reclaim Christmas?

noreply@blogger.com (Tami Boesiger) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 06:00:00 +0000

The child sat on Santa's lap, unsure if the jolly old man would grant her wish.

"You see, I'm Jewish," she said.

"Oh, that's all right," Santa said, "Santa doesn't care if you're Jewish or Buddhist or Muslim. He doesn't care if you're black or white or red or green or blue. Santa loves all children the same."

It was supposed to be a sweet moment, but it turned my stomach the way Santa (a fictional character we elevate to superstar status) took credit for the kind of love only Jesus can give. And it irked me that people who don't give any homage to Jesus still want to claim His holiday.

Yet I know I am just as guilty. Satan has done a masterful job of distracting us from the real meaning of Christmas, infusing it with all sorts of rituals and traditions that have nothing to do with the Christ child. I've got a Christmas tree in my living room, presents resting underneath. I've fallen victim to the pressure of creating the perfect holiday for my kids, spending more than I probably should. Twinkling lights hang throughout my house. We'll bake and decorate cookies, eat far too much. Stockings line the banister. We'll drink our traditional egg nog and 7 Up and eat soup at Christmas Eve. And none of it, NONE of it has anything to do with Jesus' birth.

My spirit feels the dichotomy. Tension mounts in my frenzy to get all the Christmas preparations done while something within longs only for stillness, quiet. I sense it isn't right, this strange way of celebrating the birth of Jesus. It feels pagan, too much about us and those we love, without enough solitude to hear Him beckon. And yet I don't know how to reclaim it, to satisfy this yearning in me to make it more, to make it special beyond the thoughtfulness of gifts and good will.

“Christmas belongs to us, the believers of Christ, it doesn’t belong to the world. Christ needs to be elevated in our hearts year around. He didn’t come to be marketed as a seasonal gift on sale for half price. We were the ones that were bought at price.”

David Jeremiah

Shouldn't I try to reclaim it for Him? But how? I like to sit in my living room lit only by Christmas lights, all by myself, and quietly reflect on Jesus, what He's done in my life, who I am because of Him. I like to sit there and ponder, trying in some small way to remember the night my Lord was born. I admit it doesn't happen every year, but when it does, my soul rests and knows gratitude and wonders at the Blessed Baby.

Sigh.

Is reclaiming Christmas a matter of focusing on Him? How can we do that better?

How do you try to reclaim Christmas?

To visit more In Other Words participants, visit Karen at In Love W.I.T.H. Jesus.

Photo Credit: ecastro

The Yearning

noreply@blogger.com (Tami Boesiger) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 06:00:00 +0000

(Click here to listen.)

There is a yearning
in hearts weighed down by ancient grief and centuries of sorrow.
There is a yearning
in hearts that in the darkness hide
and in the shades of death abide,
a yearning for tomorrow.

There is a yearning,
a yearning for the promised One, the Firstborn of creation.
There is a yearning for
the Lord who visited His own,
and by His death for sin atoned,
to bring to us salvation.

Emmanuel, Emmanuel, within our hearts, the yearning.
Emmanuel, Emmanuel, within our hearts, the yearning.

There is a yearning
that fills the hearts of those who wait the day of His appearing.
There is a yearning
when all our sorrows are erased
and we shall see the One who placed
within our hearts the yearning.

Emmanuel, Emmanuel, within our hearts, the yearning.
Emmanuel, Emmanuel, within our hearts, the yearning.
Emmanuel, Emmanuel, within our hearts, the yearning.

Emmanuel, Emmanuel,
within our hearts,
the yearning.

I feel it too, that yearning for something better, something purer, the desire to see the One who placed the longing in our hearts.

Come, Lord Jesus, come.

Song Credit: The Yearning, copyright 2011 Lorenz Publishing Company.
Music by Craig Courtney
Words by Susan Bentall Boersma

Photo Credit: RejiK

7 Quick Takes (Volume 162)

noreply@blogger.com (Tami Boesiger) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 06:00:00 +0000

1) How's this for a wonderful teaching moment?

Ladies Man: Mom, is Christmas your favorite holiday?

Me: No.

Ladies Man: What?!

Me: I don't like how Christmas stirs up desire for stuff we didn't think we needed two weeks ago. Suddenly everyone's focused on what they want. It doesn't seem right.

Ladies Man: I hear ya, Dawg.

Dawg?! Should I be happy he got my point or offended he called me Dawg?!

2) We had a great time at Drummer Boy's concert last Friday night.

Each year they start the concert the same way, lining the trumpets at the front of the stage, putting the lights out and playing the theme from 2001: A Space Odyssey. (It's hard to see Drummer Boy in this picture, but he's the dark headed guy standing in front of the middle bass drum, with his head turned slightly. Don't worry if you can't find him. There's no quiz at the end.)

Apparently Ladies Man has never attended this concert with us before. He spent the entire 90 minutes turning to Kevin and I saying, "This is awesome!"

Yes, it was. We enjoyed watching you, Drummer Boy! And great news, the band gets to fly down to Florida for the Huskers appearance in the Capital One bowl. They should have a great time.

3) Miss Innocent One is becoming a regular songbird. No matter what she's doing--cleaning her room, taking a shower, looking at Facebook, you name it--she's singing. She's part of her middle school's show choir and apparently takes it very seriously practicing her songs. She's quite unashamed about it until she sees me in her vicinity.

Miss Innocent One: Are you enjoying my probably terrible voice?

Is this girl a model of teen insecurity or what? And why is it a mother can't say anything to make it better? If you disagree and say, "I think you have a lovely voice," they come back with, "You have to say that. You're my mother." If you say, "Yeah, your voice is a little off," they say, "Rude!" and stomp off. What is a mother to do?

4) I went shopping with Drama Queen and Drummer Boy on Tuesday. It struck me how different shopping is with my older kids than my younger ones. The younger ones have big eyes. They see things they want as opposed to my older kids who understand the cost of things and walk through the mall on a mission to get their shopping done, not for ideas on what they want.

It was quite entertaining to watch Drummer Boy tease Drama Queen. It takes so very little. I can't tell you how many times I told her she makes it too easy.

Drama Queen (taking off her coat right before we exit the mall): Ugh. I'm hot.

Drummer Boy: Oh, so you're like a 5th grader who thinks they're too cool for a coat.

Drama Queen: It's not that cold out.

Drummer Boy: Look at me I'm tough. I don't need a coat.

Drama Queen growls.

Drummer Boy (just stepping outside): Shot gun.

Drama Queen: Nuh uh. You had it last time.

Drummer Boy: You gotta call it.

Growls.

Me: What are we? Five?

Drama Queen (as we're leaving the next place, but before we're out the door): Shotgun!

Drummer Boy: No. Shotgun rules clearly state you can't call it until you're outside.

Drama Queen: What?! No way.

Drummer Boy: It's the rules.

Growls. And guess who remembered to call it upon seeing daylight, producing more growls? Later when she put her coat back on . . .

Drummer Boy: Why are you wearing a coat? It's not that cold out.

And you can imagine, right? When will she learn she asks for it?

5) Ladies Man had a Christmas party with his beloved trombone section and had to wrap a gift for his Secret Santa person. Give the boy some tape and boxes and it's a very dangerous thing, I tell you. He decided to make unwrapping his present an event. He did the classic box in a box in a box move and then added his own flair, sticking the empty paper roll on top, adding a sign, a candy cane, some crepe paper. Isn't this slightly ridiculous?

Do you see why we should have bought stock in Scotch tape when this child was born?

6) There's this children's clothing store in our town which sets a baby doll in a high chair on the corner of a main drag down the block from them. Every single time I drive by that it catches my eye, but probably not in the way intended. It absolutely unnerves me. Immediately my mind goes to someone holding a baby captive or trying to sell it to the highest bidder. At the very least it looks like a kid's been abandoned. And it's a stinkin' doll! Every time I drive by, I'm momentarily alarmed, and then go, "Ooh. I don't like that."

Now I've never been in the actual store. I'm sure it's a perfectly safe place, but that advertising gives me the willies. I'm not sure I could enter without packing heat. (Don't I sound all street smart? No worries. I'm so boring, any lingo I know I picked up from t.v. and it's probably outdated.)

7) This mama is looking forward to having all her kiddos home for over a week. It will be a lively time at the Boesiger house soon. I was a little worried I'm not used to it anymore and the noise level will disintegrate the nerves of this introvert, but then I remembered I live in a house of late sleepers. The morning will always be mine. And the way my hormones are waking me up this week, I'll have lots of morning time.

I hope your weekend is grand and you too, look forward to time with your loved ones soon. Catch more Quick Takes at Conversion Diary.

An Antidote for the Blues

noreply@blogger.com (Tami Boesiger) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 06:00:00 +0000

I've been feeling a little world weary this week, tired of being human, tired of witnessing pain and struggle, tired.

God tells me the best way to handle world weariness is to do the next thing, to keep moving, so I do. Yesterday I followed my normal routine of going to the gym. I ran a couple of miles on the treadmill (sweating is supposed to boost the endorphins, right?), but while doing it watched a depressing movie illustrating the plight of mankind. It didn't help.

Looking outside, I noticed the weather matched my mood--dark, cloudy, misty. I've always liked rain (is it the melancholy in me that identifies?). The smell, the sound, the feel, all bring a sigh, a sense of comfort. A cloudy day makes me feel the same as hunkering down under a pile of blankets. And since God's been telling me to quit doing and just be with Him, I decided what better place to do so, than in nature.

The cool, moist air refreshed. The sights mesmerized.

I walked slow, breathed deeply, soaked it in. A short, solitary trek, surrounded by God's beauty soothed my spirit, reminded me how big He is. It was like God hit the pause button on the frenetic pace of life and whispered, "Shhh . . ."

Why do I put so much pressure on myself to do? Why can't I just be?

And don't you love the sidewalk covered in leaves? It matches this blog title perfectly. "I don't need to know where I'm going as long as God gives the next step."

Make it so, Lord. Thank You for a peaceful stroll with You, for the reminder that You are here. Thank You.

For more Thankful Thursday posts or to link up your own, visit Iris at Grace Alone.

Hush

noreply@blogger.com (Tami Boesiger) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 06:00:00 +0000

Many days I don't feel cut out for life here on earth, haunted with questions I can't find answers to.

Do I measure up?
Is God pleased with me?
Have I done enough?
What is God doing?
Where are we going?
What is my next step?
How can I live a life pleasing to God and man?
What does God expect of me?

I follow the dictates of my world in perfect Martha fashion, staying busy, productive, pushing forward. But no matter how much I give, I'm left disappointed, understanding my part in God's grand scheme is so small. If not me, He could have used someone else.

I yearn for tranquility, for peace in my own mind, for no expectations from myself or others. I long for the quiet of a dark night, a sacred stable, the wonder of a baby full of promise and hope, a physical, touchable, present form of God's love. I want to rest there, like a little sheep no one notices or needs anything from. I want to ponder with Mary, to feel tiny fingers wrap around mine, the only distraction being the low braying of the donkey outside.

Isn't this the spirit of Christmas, the awe, the stillness, the promise wrapped in flesh? Isn't this what I'm missing every day? Isn't this where my spirit wants to reside?

But my abode screams, "Buy! Do! Go! Achieve! Succeed! Impress!" What I crave--the quiet, the peace--is so far from where I live. Should I be surprised to feel weary, weak, worn? I do my best to press on, to rely on God's strength, but often I bring my beaten self, peppering Him with questions, begging to know it matters, to do it right, to discover His heart.

He says, Hush, Tami.

No more questions. Stop thinking, stop trying so hard.

Hush, My child.

Just be with Me.

No questions. No thoughts. Nothing, but . . .

Rest.

Hush . . .

Be still and know that I am God . . .

Psalm 46:12

Photo Credit: Truthout.org

Like A Shepherd

noreply@blogger.com (Tami Boesiger) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 06:00:00 +0000

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.

The shepherds were minding their own business, doing their job.

An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."

God gave them an unmistakable message.

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened which the Lord has told us about." So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.

They believed and sought out Jesus.

When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.

They saw him and spread the news, being part of God's amazing work.

The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

They praised God.

I've often envied the shepherds. A host of angels would be pretty convincing, don't you think? God doesn't spell it out so clearly for us, does He? And yet, I, like the shepherds, was minding my own business when God gave me a message about His Son. It wasn't through angels, but in confirmation class, from the lips of my pastor. His words about Jesus having a special plan for my life compelled me, causing me to hope Jesus was real, so I believed and sought the Son of God through prayer and His Word. And one day, after much searching and my own spiritual journey, I knew I needed Jesus--I "saw" Him and have spent the rest of my life trying to point Him out to others. Every day brings new opportunities to praise Him for all the wonders He's shown.

“Can we see that we are the shepherds? Can we with open eyes, see who we are and who He is and what He has done? Are we amazed?”

Rev. Mark Shaw

The shepherds were minding their own business, doing their job.
God gave them an unmistakable message.
They believed and sought out Jesus.
They saw him and spread the news, being part of God's amazing work.
They praised God.

Are you like a shepherd? Has your life changed after "seeing?" the Christ child?

Want to know what others think of this quote? Visit Loni at Writing Canvas.

Scripture passage: Luke 2:8-20

Photo Credit: Reza Vazari

What Do You Do With the Grrrr?

noreply@blogger.com (Tami Boesiger) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 06:00:00 +0000

Sometimes things eat at me. I'll think I've put them behind me and then out of no where I find myself talking about them again. With passion and anger, guilt and tears. We have many ways to describe our letting it all out.

Venting
Seeking counsel
Whining
Gaining perspective
Complaining
Confiding in a trusted adviser
Releasing the tension

We use pretty terms to rationalize (and excuse?) our behavior, but what is the right way to handle pent up feelings? Is it necessary to let them out? What happens when we don't? What is the Biblical way to deal with them?

When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise.
Proverbs 10:19

Do everything without complaining or arguing
Philippians 2:14

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
Ephesians 4:29

I know these verses and have recited them to myself for years, but there's something about getting it out that feels better. Once I've spoken it I can let it go easier. Often as I'm spewing my junk, I hear how ridiculous it sounds out loud and am shamed into silence. If I only vent to my husband, isn't that okay? I mean, we are as one, so technically I'm talking to myself, right?

Hmmm. I have noticed though, that just like potato chips (you can't eat just one), once I open my mouth I'm more tempted to do it again and the problem with that is, not only can it border on gossip, but I'm tainting the opinion of the person I'm venting to. Will they get a bad taste in their mouth over something I've said?

But often someone gives me a different perspective, helps me make better sense of a situation, shows me the error in my thinking, sets me straight. In that case, saying something is worth it. How long would I have carried the grrr with me otherwise?

Once I'd been upset with my husband and held it in for six months when it exploded all over him. I never want to repeat that. Oooh. So ugly. And definitely not healthy for our marriage. How was our union affected that six months?

But here's my biggest struggle. I can't find scripture to support venting. Can I use verses like these? Talking things over with a trusted friend can help.

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.
Proverbs 27:17

Ugh. Do you see my dilemma? I want to handle this correctly. Can you do it with a trusted few you know will not repeat your angst? Should you never utter negativity? If I have a problem with someone, should I only talk to that person? But what if you can't? What do you do with the grrr then? I don't know the answer. At times I've been encouraged by sharing my pent up feelings, but others times I've carried guilt afterward. I've worked on this post for at least six weeks, waiting for God to bring the answer and so far have heard nothing. I figure I need help. Has He spoken to you on the issue?

What is your opinion on venting?

Photo Credit: Artworks Creative Communities

7 Quick Takes (Volume 161)

noreply@blogger.com (Tami Boesiger) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 06:00:00 +0000

1) We survived our church musical last weekend. As always, I'm astounded at how God brings so many people together for one cause. With cast, crew and orchestra, we're pushing fifty people, all on one page for the same goal. It's a beautiful picture of the body of Christ functioning as one.

This year's set was one of my favorites. Our director and set designer, Paul Whaley, outdid himself. Kevin was particularly proud of the working lamp post he built from scratch (see the left side of the set). That baby was 20 feet tall!

Our story took place in a market so we needed lots of food to fill our shelves. Our wonderful church family donated supplies (so much we couldn't set it all out without weighing down our wall too much!) we donated to our local food pantry.

Ladies Man played in our orchestra for the first time. See him warming up his trombone?

And here is our fantastic cast. We have an amazing bunch of actors who just keep getting better and better. People often tell me I should get on stage some year, but after watching these guys I decided I am WAY too far behind the curve to be any good there. See Miss Innocent One in the striped sweater in the front row?

What a privilege to be mixed up with these people. You guys are awesome! At the risk of sounding like an old person, I have one thing to say. I am so proud of you!

2) Ladies Man has taken to drinking out of a quart jar lately. Is he trying to perpetuate the notion that he's the giant his siblings tease him of being?

And this may be why they tease him.

His new shoes were as big as Miss Innocent One's thigh! Good news, though. These shoes were actually too big for him and had to be returned for a tinier size 14.

3) We went out to eat with Kevin's parents on Sunday evening and a little tiff ensued with Kevin and his mother about who was paying. Both shoved their debits cards at the poor woman working the cash register, saying the other's money wasn't good. Finally, the worker took Kevin's mom's card and said to Kevin, "She looks meaner than you."

She may be small, but she's mighty! This gives me hope as a mother. For their entire lives I've reminded my kids I could still take them down, and if in the right frame of mind, I still think I could do it. Little G-ma gives me hope I can do it forever.

4) We have a little friend in our pantry.

Each day we're finding new evidence of his existence. How do I know it's a he? C'mon! Apart from the cranberries, this thing's eating junk food!

We set a trap for it, but apparently it's smarter than the trap.

I just don't understand how we can have a mouse. Our neighborhood has an army of cats wandering around at all times. We find them sitting on our porches often. How could a mouse get by them?

We're curious about our little friend because our good friends who live nearby are missing their hamster. Our kids are back and forth often to each other's houses and we carpool to school with them. Is it possible the hamster caught a ride in someone's jacket and ended up in our house? Far fetched? Maybe. But it makes me feel better about my housekeeping skills! I may have to tear the pantry apart this weekend to flush the critter out.

5) Drama Queen was home over the weekend and Ladies Man started getting on her nerves.

Drama Queen: Stop it or I'll punch you in the head.

Ladies Man: You couldn't REACH my head.

Ooh, gotcha babe. Sorry.

6) My college kids are stressing about finals coming up next week. I'm wondering if the stress is hampering their ability to think clearly as Drama Queen and Drummer Boy had a long drawn out deal on Facebook about research on grapes and writing papers about them. Drummer Boy posted a survey for people to vote on their favorite grape, titling it, "I'm being a good brother and helping Drama Queen with her paper about grapes. What grapes are best?" Apparently this was to aggravate his sister which he succeeded in doing. The last thing she wrote on his wall was, "If you get me a bag of grapes for Christmas, I will shove them down your throat."

Prayers for their sanity would be appreciated!

7) We're headed to Lincoln tonight to catch Drummer Boy in action at the Cornhusker Marching Band Highlights concert. It's always a fun night. Imagine 300 bodies on one stage playing all the show music from the season and school fight songs. At last year's concert the band found out they'd be attending the bowl game with the football team. Wonder if they'll get such happy news this year.

And that's all I got this Friday, my friends. Enjoy the weekend and catch more Quick Takes at Conversion Diary.