Joyous Accounts

June 1st & 15th Scripture Memorization

2009-06-15T05:15:00.000-07:00

Just like in May, June's verses from Psalm 139 fit nicely together and would look and sound funny broken up. So therefore, I have combined the two.

Psalm 139: 11&12

11 If I say, "Surely the darkenss will hide me and the light become night around me,"

12 even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you.

I'm Moving...I Think

2009-06-01T17:06:00.000-07:00

I have moved my blog over to Wordpress. I am not very happy with it at the moment though. I might be back on blogger if this whole Wordpress affair doesn't work out.
www.joyousaccounts.wordpress.com

Andy's Birthday Party

2009-05-19T15:00:00.000-07:00

Two weeks ago we celebrated Andy's first birthday with a Mexican inspired party since his actual birthday is on Cinco De Mayo. We ate taco's, Mexican rice, and Fiesta beans. Chris made some great salsamole that is so good it is destined to be famous.

The kids had a great time busting open the pinata. Josh ended up being the one to get it open but it was made so poorly that some others didn't get a chance to get a swing at it before it opened. There was a whole half of it that was still intact though so those kids were able to play too. Uncle Matt even got in on the action!

Andy really enjoyed tearing into his gifts which included books, a personalized puzzle, a tricycle, Leap Frog's Fridge Phonics, a teaching Teddy Bear, some sand toys, a set of car keys and cell phone,and a "gumball machine" among other things. We gave Andy a Beanie Buddy Frog and a Five Little Monkeys book. Some of the other kids enjoyed his gifts too!

Andy really took to heart the song "It's My Party And I'll Cry If I Want To!" He was getting tired by this point and overwhelmed with all the attention. We all crowded around him and sang "Happy Birthday" while he kept reaching for the candle. After I blew it out he savored every last bite. Well, maybe he missed a few.

The birthday boy with his grandma. They seem to be deep in conversation by the way Andy is looking at her.

The birthday boy and his daddy. Aren't they cute?

The kids pretty much spent the entire evening outside even though it was a bit chilly. They played in the light..

and in the dark.

Recipes:

Easy Mexican Rice

1 1/2 cups uncooked brown rice

3 cups water
1 (1 ounce) package taco seasoning mix
1 (15.25 ounce) can kidney beans, drained
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup shredded lettuce

In a saucepan bring 3 cups water to a boil. Add rice and stir. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 45 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand for 15 minutes.
Stir in taco seasoning, kidney beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, salt, pepper and lettuce.
Cook over medium heat until heated through.

Easy Fiesta Beans

1 can(s) fat-free re-fried beans, preferably spicy

1 can(s) no-salt-added pinto beans, rinsed
1/2 cup(s) prepared salsa
2/3 cup(s) grated sharp Cheddar cheese, divided
4 scallions, sliced

Position rack in upper third of oven; preheat broiler.

Combine re-fried beans, pinto beans, salsa and 1/3 cup cheese in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring, until the mixture is hot and the cheese is melted, 6 to 8 minutes.
Spoon the bean mixture into a 2-quart baking dish and sprinkle with the remaining 1/3 cup cheese and scallions. Broil until the cheese is lightly browned, about 2 minutes.

Tomato-Avocado Salsamole

1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
1tsp minced jalapeno
1tbs lime juice
1tbs cider vinegar
1tsp minced garlic
1/4tsp salt
1 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted, and coarsely mashed
1 medium tomato, chopped
1/4 chopped cilantro

Combine onion, jalapeno, lime juice, vinegar, garlic, and salt in bowl. Add avocado, tomato, and cilantro; stir well. Serve immediately, or, to store, reserve avocado pit, add to mixture to prevent browning, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Serve with lightly toasted whole-wheat pita cut into triangles.

A New Addition To Our Family

2009-05-19T00:00:00.000-07:00

For the better part of a week we had been waiting on pins and needles to find out if Josh was going to win a lizard from school that the kids were studying in science class. Actually, I was hoping that he would not have his name drawn. I even half-joked to his teacher to try not to draw his name. Of course Josh was hoping that he would hear the sweet sound of his name being called so that he could become the proud new owner of a lizard. When I picked Josh up from school, the tell-tale sign of a boy gingerly carrying an ice-cream bucket told me all I needed to know.

It turns out that this lizard is actually an anole, which was so rudely explained to me from the mouth of a nerdy, pimply teenager at the pet store when I went to get the anole some nummy crickets. The clerk told us that the anole will not eat for a few days since it is very easily stressed. I wish I could say the same. However, I eat like the dickens when I am stressed...or bored...or happy...or whenever I see food. I was definitely in need of a package of double-stuffed Oreo's after my lecture from Mr. Animal Know-it-all.

Anyway, we left the small pet store empty-handed and discussed the name of our new little critter on the way home.

Me: What are we going to call the new little critter?

Josh: I don't know.

Me: What about Bugger?

Josh: Yeah! No, I don't like that.

Me: What about Geronimo?

Josh: Yeah! Geromino! No, I can't pronounce it! What were some of the names you were going to name Andy?

Me: Alexander, Lucas, Ryan...

Josh: Ryan! That's what we'll name him!

So Ryan had to spend the night in his bucket with some freshly cut branches but no dinner. The next day we went to a larger pet store and bought all the things that would keep Ryan happy, comfortable, and green.

Ryan's last moments in the dreaded bucket. Can you spot him?

Josh poured the coconut husk bedding on the bottom of the terrarium.

I hung a net and Josh placed a climbing/hiding log in just the right place.

Then it was time to hang the branches for Ryan to climb and catch some rays.

Josh misted Ryan's home for proper humidity.

Because Josh is a bit afraid of Ryan and I am just grossed out, Chris and his manly hands carefully introduced Ryan to his new home. O.K. I'm a little afraid of him too. Ryan, not Chris.

Chris dumped a few crickets in the terrarium and Ryan ate immediately even though Mr. Animal Know-it-all explained that he would not because he would be too stressed out. Apparently we have another stress eater on our hands.

In fact, he was so stressed out he chowed down six crickets in a matter of minutes. At least I don't have to cook for him. Cricket stew. Yum.

There's Ryan all happy and brilliantly green in his new home.
Except when Josh looks at him.
Then he turns brown.

Souper Saturday Again

2009-05-16T06:06:00.000-07:00

With today being a chilly spring day, we made another hot soup. I got the recipe from a colleague of Chris's after he had eaten some of hers and really liked it. I made it a few weeks ago with one or two tweaks but today I made it true to the recipe using ground turkey. It is super easy and kid friendly. I made cornbread(from a package) in a cast iron skillet to go with the soup. Yummm.

(I am still trying to figure out my camera!)

Taco Soup

1lb lean ground turkey or beef
1 large pkg Hidden Valley Ranch dressing mix
1 pkg taco seasoning mix
1 can black beans
1 can white beans
1 can whole kernel corn
1 can green beans
1 can diced tomatoes
1 can diced tomatoes (Mexican chile or spicy)

Brown meat and drain
Add Ranch and taco seasoning mix to meat and mix well
Add all the other ingredients without draining
Simmer for one hour

Serves 12 1cup servings

May 1st & 15th Scripture Memorization

2009-05-15T04:57:00.000-07:00

I didn't post my May 1st verse on the 1st so I will combine the 1st and the 15th today. It works out well because verses 9&10 of Psalm 139 go together and would have looked and sounded funny broken up. They just need to be memorized together.

Psalm 139:9&10

9 If I rise on the wings of dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea,

10 even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.

In Our News

2009-05-12T03:50:00.000-07:00

A Nephew Is Born

Sunday, May 10 (Mother's Day) Calin was born to Matt and Amy. He is my first nephew and he will probably be my only nephew. He is very cute with dark blue eyes and lots of dark hair. If he is anything like his older sister though, his eyes will turn a lighter shade of blue and his hair will turn blonde. He is very loved and I look forward to watching him grow up and witnessing him and Andy form a cousin bond being that they are only one year apart. I have to admit when I was holding Calin I had a small wave of baby fever intrude upon my heart. Not enough to make me want a baby at this very moment but the thought has, uninvited, crept into my mind. We will have to really think and pray hard about adding another child to our family. We can hardly keep up with the small child in our home as it is. I would like to have a girl but that is up to God.

Another thought I had while I was holding Calin is how I remember wanting time to stop for just a little while after both my boys were born. There was so much controlled chaos going on during the births that I just wanted some time afterwards to soak up the monumental gift that I had just been given. Time to study their little faces and count their fingers and toes. But the seconds kept ticking into minutes and their little lives began the growing process independently from my body. Hours passed then days and now years have gone by with something new to learn at each moment. And time just seems to be going by much faster.

Gramps Well Despite Chemotherapy And Radiation Treatment

Gramps finished his daily Radiation treatment late last week and has persevered through it with grit and stamina. He has two more Chemotherapy treatments left, one coming up next Monday and the last one in mid-June. Gramps will have more scans to determine how much of the cancer has been eradicated and I do believe his oncologists and surgeons will then decide if and when surgery will be performed. He has maintained nutrition and hydration so well that he is only required to have blood drawn once a week and some weeks he doesn't have to have it drawn at all. My mom has gone to Illinois to be with him when he receives his Chemotherapy and next week will be no exception.
I remember my grandma's last Christmas when she was dying from cancer. I had no idea what to say or how to act so I ended up ignoring her, but watching in morbid fascination at what was happening to her. It was just too out of the ordinary for me. I felt like she was a stranger. It wasn't obvious that I was ignoring her and I didn't even realize that's what I was doing at the time. I didn't recognize the feelings that I was experiencing. I just wanted her to be back to normal with her notorious energy and not dragging around an oxygen tank to help her breathe. I find myself fighting the same stupid behavior with Gramps. I have to force myself to call him and acknowledge the brevity of the situation. I don't want to dwell on it but I need him to know that I am aware that he is fighting for his life. I need him to know that he has my support. So instead of pretending nothing is wrong I will pray for him and reach out to him with sympathy and compassion.
Anyway, Gramps so misses his beloved Cubs that he is planning on trekking to Wrigley Field to see a game next weekend before his Chemotherapy treatment. My mom will move Heaven and Earth to go with him. I wish I could too. My Gramps is full of understated stubborn tenacity. He is my hero and I love him dearly.

Soldier Mick In Iraq

Back in February when I tearfully watched from my desk at work the troops ride away on buses to begin their tour of duty, I committed to step out of my own little world and get to know someone who is serving our country in Iraq. Little did I know that commitment would be in the form of my third cousin Mick. As I was doing some research as to how to get in touch with someone in Iraq, forming a pen-pal situation of sorts, Mick found me on Facebook. I read a comment on his page that he wished that he would get letters from home which got me thinking and praying. I wasn't expecting God to choose someone I already knew to send encouraging words and thoughts to but I do know that God is chiseling away at my hard, judgemental heart so I wasn't surprised by His plan. I began a letter and three pages later signed it and sent it off. It wasn't long before I got a letter in the mail from Mick. He answered all my questions and told me some things about Iraq. Even though it has been weeks since I received his letter, I still haven't written him back. I will take the time soon though because it is important to me. And I suspect it is important to him to know that somebody cares.

Hostess Cupcake Really Is Russell Tradition!

This past weekend Chris's parents, Barb and Bob, came up from Wisconsin to celebrate Andy's first birthday. Barb brought along Chris's baby books in which I read that he joyfully devoured a Hostess Cupcake on his own first birthday. Ok, the whole 'joyfully devoured' part wasn't really in the book but he did have a Hostess Cupcake.
Also in the book was a picture of Chris when he was one and, I must say, Andy looks an awful lot like his daddy.

Cupcake Tradition

2009-05-06T04:02:00.000-07:00

Apparently there is a first birthday tradition among the Russell family that I was not aware of until last night when Chris came home and declared that he had stopped by the gas station to get Andy something for his birthday. Need I say more?

Oh, I need to say more. There is nothing like instilling the love of Hostess Cupcakes early on in life. Chris has pictures of himself eating a Hostess Cupcake on his first birthday. I have not seen these pictures so, quite frankly, I'm not sure if the tradition lived before he did or if this is just something that he wants to continue for the second generation. I mean, how long has Hostess been making cupcakes anyway? As you can tell, Andy did seem to enjoy the treat and that's all that matters!

We are having a birthday party on Saturday where there will be even more cupcake fun and even more pictures taken to capture the celebration of Andy's birthday. This boy must be loved!

Happy Birthday Andy!

2009-05-05T04:30:00.000-07:00

Today is Andy's 1st birthday! I am so excited despite the fact that there is what seems like a monsoon outside. Never mind the fact that we live in an entirely different part of the world where monsoons don't actually occur. The day I went into labor with Andy was a beautiful, warm spring day...

Saturday May 3rd

I had to work an insanely busy Saturday morning shift at Anchor Bank. By the time the four hours were over I was ready for a long nap and a relaxing day. But instead, I threw a baby shower for my friend Stefani who was due in June. So I trudged my large belly and swollen feet over to the party host's home and began to prepare the food and games for all the guests. I threw a successfully fun baby shower and waddled my way home, but there was no time for relaxing. We had relatives (maybe it was just Dan and Gramps) in town and dinner was planned at my parent's home for any of us that could make it, which was pretty much all of us, Dennis included. After an evening of eating, talking, joking, and laughing hysterically Chris and Josh took my weary body home where we all (ok, maybe it was just me) fell into bed since it was late and we wanted to get up for church the next morning.

Sunday May 4th

After spending many months attending different churches and deciding that our family's best "fit" was at Five Oaks, Chris and I signed up to take the Discovery class which happened to fall on that Sunday. He had already been a member of Five Oaks in the past but he attended the class with me so that I could get the information I needed about the church. We enjoyed the class and the lunch following and discussed what we should do with the rest of the day. I was in need of a little weight relief so we decided to head to the pool at the community center and it felt wonderful to let the water take some of the pressure off my body. As I was floating around the edge of the pool Chris asked if I would be able to feel if my water broke while I was in the water. I answered that I wasn't sure but that it would be really crazy if it did. We may have mentioned that it would be kind of gross and possibly laughed about it.

I was soon ready to get out of the water so I watched Josh play as I dried off. Chris took off for the men's room to sit in the sauna. I hadn't even dried off completely when I felt a small gush. I stopped and thought to myself, "Is that what I think it is or did I just pee on myself?" I began walking back to our chairs when I felt that telltale gush again. And again. I quickly gathered our towels and toys, called Josh, and told him to go into the men's room and ask Chris to come out. As soon as Chris appeared I explained to him that my water had broken adding, "Ironic, huh?"
His response was, "We've gotta go!" That was at around 6pm.
We went home and as I packed up my suitcase, Chris packed up the refrigerator. We had just prepared some meals and didn't want to waste them. Soon we were on our way to the hospital after dropping Josh off at my parents. The IV was inserted to deliver antibiotics for Group B Strep and we waited for the contractions to get harder and closer together. It didn't take long before I became very uncomfortable.

Monday May 5

I decided to take a warm bath but I wasn't in there long before Andy decided he was ready to come out. And if you ask Chris, there is a discrepancy in our stories that I treated him poorly when he couldn't understand my whispering that I didn't want any more water and I shoved the shower head out of his hand. He also freaked out when I squeezed his thumb and groaned that I needed help. He thought I was dying but I just wanted drugs.
Anyway, I made it to the delivery bed but let's just say Andy was close to being born in the bathtub. At least I was at the hospital and not at home!
Andy was born at 12:48am weighing 7lb 4oz and 19 1/4 inches long. We found out he was a boy at that moment but we didn't have a name picked out for him yet. In fact, we didn't choose his name for at least 12 hours or longer. There were too many to choose from. We liked Alexander, Lucas, and Ryan as well but we gave him the name Andrew John.
If you go back to this post, you will notice that there seems to be a common denominator that sends me into labor every time (well, only twice, but still!). Dan and Dennis inducing fits of hysterical laughter mere hours before I go into labor. Coincidence? I think not! I think it's all part of God's humor.

Andy has redefined my role as a mom since he became another "firstborn" in my life. Andy is very active and doesn't sit still for anything. He is full of joy and laughter and loves music and singing. He sings with Daddy and sings with the radio in my car when I pick him up from Grandma's. He loves throwing his toys on the floor and saying, "Uh-Oh."
This first year has been a challenge but also a joy as we have watched his little personality emerge and and as he starts the journey to become the person God created him to be.

Lord, thank you for the sweet blessing of Andy. Thank you for making me his mommy. Help me to be a light that leads him to You. Thank You for all you have done for Andy and for all the plans and blessings You have stored up for him. My most earnest prayer is that he chooses to follow You for the rest of his days. Please watch over him and make Yourself real to him. Thank You Lord.

Andy shares a birthday with his Great-Uncle Dennis and his second cousin Isaiah who was born on the exact same day. Happy Birthday Dennis and Isaiah! Happy Birthday Andy!

Walking Away

2009-04-26T05:25:00.000-07:00

"C'mon Andy! You can do it! Come to Momma!" I coaxed Andy with a sing-song voice and eager arms as he took wobbly, tentative steps towards me. As he fell into my arms I exclaimed with pride, "Yay! What a big boy!" Then I turned him around and sent him back to wobble a few steps to Chris's eagerly outstretched arms. We went back and forth, day after day until one day Andy, unbidden, walked away from the couch to explore the world on his own two feet.

That one day was four weeks ago; March 30th to be exact. The day that most parents look forward to and dread at the same time. The day that marked a major milestone even more than rolling over, sitting up, and trying solid food for the first time.

Before we know it, Andy will be walking away from us into his kindergarten classroom, then to baseball practice and Boy Scout meetings. He will soon be holding a set of keys as he walks out our front door to drive to high school and his first job.

All too soon he will finish college and walk away to begin the rest of his life and to explore the world on his own two feet.

How do I know this? Because I have a nine-year-old who is growing up in the blink of an eye. I have cheered on his first steps and sent him to kindergarten (and first and second and third grade) and watched him karate chop his way to a black belt (coming in January!). He will also hold a set of keys and a first job and a college degree.

Witnessing the natural evolution of changes in our children is inevitable so as I watch my children walk away to explore the world on their own two feet I will proudly proclaim, "What a big boy!"

Signs of Spring

2009-04-23T11:04:00.000-07:00

What makes you think of Spring?

Is it the vibrant buds on the tree branches promising new life and a warm summer?

Is it those beautifully pesky dandelions growing in your yard before the first colors of your lovingly planted flowers shoot through your carefully sowed soil?

Perhaps it's the small creatures that come out in droves to annoy and frighten us all.

My favorite sign of Spring, the one that elicits a sigh of relief from my thawing lungs after living through another long, cold winter is...

The Street Sweeper!

Yes. The street sweeper. At the first sighting of a local street sweeper, I called Chris with this very important news (which probably interrupted him as he taught his students) and loudly announced that the sweepers were out in full force and that SPRING IS HERE!
I vowed to capture the moment they came to sweep our street and demanded that my family keep listening to hear when they were coming. Chris, the darling that he is, heard the low hum of the sweeper crawling down our street and declared that I better get outside with the camera. With no hesitation and maybe a little embarrassment, I stood on our front steps and clicked away hoping for a good shot. I'm fairly certain the street sweeper driver thought I was crazy.
Every year I look forward to the street sweepers and give them them an extra wide berth and some patience as they clear away the last traces of winter and usher in the season of Spring.

Better Late Than Never

2009-04-20T11:43:00.000-07:00

I am a little late in posting the 8th verse for the year. Better late than never, right?

Psalm 139:1-8
1O LORD, you have searched me and you know me
2You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.
3You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.
4Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O LORD.
5You hem me in-behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me.
6Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain.
7 Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?

8If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.

This will be really short because, between pulling Andy away from the plants before he shovels handfuls of dirt into his mouth and chasing him around the house retrieving various toys belonging to a certain 9-year-old before he either strangles or impales himself, I find myself with little time to blog.

Beautiful Day

2009-04-18T05:47:00.000-07:00

I have been thanking God all week for our beautiful weather. It has been gorgeous! This weekend will be cooler with some rain but I am thankful for that also since we need the rain too.

In years past I have always waited until June when the Summer Solstice began to really enjoy summer and even then I didn't take full advantage of my favorite season. Around here, summers are short and meant to be savored, pleaded for in the thick of winter when we are up to our necks in snow and nearly frozen from the cold.

This year I have decided to take advantage of Spring and enjoy every warm day we are given. Even the not so warm but sunny enough to fool one into thinking it's warm days. I spent time outside everyday this week whether it was taking a walk with my family, playing at the park, or cozying up in a chair in the dark at the drive-in movie theater (which Josh and I did last night with Angela, Kristen, and Jamie).

I had mentioned in an earlier post that I couldn't wait to introduce Andy to the slides and swings at the playground. So I didn't. It turns out that Andy is a huge fan of the swing! The higher it goes the harder he laughs! And if Josh is pushing him? Well, that is just heaven on earth!

The Reason for the Season

2009-04-11T07:46:00.000-07:00

Instead of going to church and reflecting on the sacrificial death of our Savior last night, we decided to head to Minneapolis and attend the Easter Celebration at the Midtown Global Market. There was no mention of Jesus Christ or the reason why we celebrate Easter but there was a band playing banjos and such and dancing. And there was an Easter Bunny. So we took a picture.Josh was much too cool to take a picture with the Easter Bunny but I did subject Andy to the torture and he did surprisingly well. I expected tears but he was too busy trying to figure out why he was on the lap of an overgrown rabbit.

Then there was the candy hunt. Some but not all of the vendors were handing out candy to kids with Easter baskets so we hauled our Easter bucket around searching for the tell-tale signs of candy. I finally persuaded Josh to carry the bucket after he begged me to carry it because he is too cool and would look like a little kid carrying it around. He was trying to be as invisible as possible with his bright green Easter bucket so I took a picture.
We ate a ton of authentic Mexican food and bought some foods for home like Middle Eastern pita bread and some Mexican tamales. Josh decided to partake of some American fare(i.e. hot dog and chips) and chose Andy's Garage. So we took a picture.
Shopping is high on my to-do list at the Midtown Global Market so we browsed through the shops featuring African musical instruments, Norwegian lace, Asian embroidery, South American beads, local farmer's market produce, and lots of pottery and clothing and toys. At a Latin American shop we bought some Mexican candy and a pinata to smash open at Andy's 1st birthday party since he is a Cinco de Mayo baby. The brilliant plan to make it a tradition came to me in that very shop. So we took a picture.We reserved a special place for the sun pinata. Especially since Andy hates to ride in his stroller. And Josh managed to talk us into getting him a Nacho Libre mask as a plan to wear it as part of a Halloween costume this year. Never mind that it is six months away and I will probably forget about it and get him another costume anyway.

The evening turned out fabulous despite harboring a little guilt that we didn't go to church. However, we did discuss the importance of Good Friday with Josh and we plan to celebrate Jesus' resurrection on Easter Sunday and praising God for what He and His Son did for us so that we can be saved from eternal death. For that is the reason for this season.

Jeans

2009-04-04T17:48:00.000-07:00

Two weeks ago I had the privilege of taking Josh shopping for new jeans. And when I say privilege, I mean the tear-out-my-hair-and-pluck-out-my-own-eyes-instead-of-taking-that-boy-shopping kind of privilege.

It was sorely evident that he needed new jeans when the ones he put on that morning cut off the circulation to the bottom half of his body and made it hard to breathe. He was forced to wear them all day until we were able to go shopping.

Our first stop was Old Navy where we had previously had success. Immediately Josh spied a "cool" pair of gray jeans. We searched through all the jeans and when I finally emerged from the mountain of everything-but-gray-jeans we were still empty-handed because, of course, they didn't have his size. That would be way too easy.

Well, this started a hysterical fit because nothing but the gray jeans would do. I mean, what does this boy think I did? Does he think I called the store beforehand and asked them to put away all the gray jeans in his size because I wanted to torture myself by inciting a hysterical fit?

And me being the exceptional mom that I am, I asked him exactly that. Through clenched teeth.
And suppressing a scream.

Wonder of all wonders, Josh's scowl turned into a smile! I think my little boy is growing up! There is something to be said for a little perspective.

In better spirits, we left Old Navy and headed to another store that didn't even carry boys jeans. So off to the Mall of America we went. The MOA has an Old Navy so we stopped there first to see if they had any of the coveted gray jeans. They didn't. Again, that would be way too easy.

After searching the better part of the mall's 3859 stores, deciding I didn't want to pay about that much for some chintzy denim, and slurping a couple smoothies, I finally convinced Josh to try The Children's Place. That store is for babies according to Josh. He refused to even look at any jeans but I finally persuaded, ok, forced him to try some on. They were a dark shade of blueish gray but still gray. And guess what? He liked them! We bought two pair and happily skipped away hand in hand. Not really. Josh wouldn't be caught dead holding my hand in public and I would feel too silly skipping in public.

On the way home I thought to myself "Target! Why didn't we just go to Target?" So we took a detour to Target and dragged our exhausted bodies to the jeans section. Josh spied them first; the coveted pair of gray jeans. We quickly bought them after trying them on, of course, and finally made our way home.

It was then that I realized that I had a really good time shopping with Josh, barring the one bout of bad attitude and all. But we had some great important and not-so-important conversations and a lot of laughs. We spent good, quality time together that I believe has pushed us forward in the evolution of our relationship. I really enjoy being his mom (most days) and I am so thankful to God for giving me this exact child.

It turns out that the shopping trip that I was resisting ended up being a privilege after all.

It's Time to Memorize Another Verse

2009-04-01T16:57:00.001-07:00

This post was originally started 4 days ago. We are finishing up Spring Break so I just couldn't get to it. I had such a great time with my family this week and I can't wait until summer when we can hang out all day everyday again. I am excited to go biking and swimming and introducing Andy to swings and playgrounds and watching him and Josh play together outside splashing in the kiddie pool. I am looking forward to getting my garden built, plotted, and growing. It will go by really fast so I want to enjoy and savor each day.

Psalm 139 (NIV)
O LORD, you have searched me and you know me 2You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.

3You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. 4Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O LORD.

5You hem me in-behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me. 6Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain.

7 Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?

_______________________________________

This week Gramps began chemotherapy and radiation therapy to help shrink his tumor. He seems to be handling it fine and was sent home with some anti-nausea medication if he needs it. His spirits are good and he still has some energy.

Last Thursday, my cousin BreAnna gave birth to twins; a girl named Erin and a boy named Eli. They were very healthy and able to go home in a matter of days. BreAnna also has a 17 month old girl named Adi. She is going to be one busy mama! I don't envy her at all. Well, truthfully, I am jealous that she has twins but I'm not sure that I would want to be in her position as a single mom with three in diapers. Heck, I wouldn't want to be in her position as a married mom with a supportive husband. I have my hands full already!

Sometime last week, as I was cleaning up the kitchen, I heard the absence of noise from our rather noisy baby and I thought to myself "Uh oh. What's going on in the living room?"
This is what I found when I went to investigate. Andy had removed a lot of dirt from the pot behind him and heaped a big pile of it onto the floor. As you can see, he helped himself to a little bit of it too. He is such a mess!

I have been playing around with the iPhoto editing features on my MacBook but when I download the photos to my blog they don't seem to look any different. I finally figured out that I have to click on the "Done" button when I have finished editing them. Amazing concept! Thus the same picture twice for my own viewing pleasure. I am puffed up with pride for myself right now because I managed to finally notice the "Done" button! I know. It doesn't take much.

Employment Limbo

2009-03-26T04:16:00.001-07:00

Just like many other people in our alledgedly disintegrating economy, we have been enduring layoffs in the City of Inver Grove Heights. At the community center, I technically go by the title Guest Service Specialist. My direct supervisor, who worked very hard for our members and her employees, was laid off last week along with another woman who carries the same title as myself. Since I have been here for only six months and we are part of a union she has the opportunity to take my position and bump me out because she has seniority over me.

In the end she chose not to take my position, therefore, I am officially still employed...

Until the layoffs were not approved by the city council after the fact.

Apparently someone jumped the gun and escorted these women out of the building before the actual layoffs were approved. These women are sitting at home on paid administrative leave and my job is up in the air again for another two weeks. It kind of sounds like I am upset but I'm not. To be honest, I don't really understand what is happening. I have never been in a union and I have never been through the layoff process so I am not sure what the proper procedure is and if it's the same across the board regarding union and non-union companies.

I have been assured by a few fellow employees that this woman will not take my position because she doesn't want to work these particular hours (4:45am until 8:45am). I do not feel anxious that I potentially may be unemployed soon because I know that my family could survive on Chris's salary alone, albeit rather frugally, and that the whole situation is all in God's hands. He knows our needs and desires before we do. He carries us and sustains us.

So here I am in what I call "employment limbo" and very grateful to have a job, however long it lasts.

Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might.

Ecclesiastes 9:10a

Real Love

2009-03-19T05:59:00.001-07:00

There are times when I am critical of my husband. There, I said it. Just call me Missrude. Unfortunately I am not critical in a nice, loving, constructive way, but in a way that offends and discourages him. And if I am honest with myself, I probably do it way more often than I realize because, sadly, I don't even recognize my critical attitude most of the time. It just shows up, ugly, mean, and downright vicious sometimes.

Just a couple of days ago Missrude showed up yet again when my husband was putting his shoes on and was getting dirt on our hardwood front room floor. Of course, I made a comment that sounded something like "Nice" and immediately felt bad when I noticed that it offended him. It should be noted that one of the reasons he was putting on his shoes was to go to the store to pick up some cereal that I asked him to get for Andy. It turns out Andy loves the new Jumbo Rice Krispies. It's a great finger-food snack for little ones.

Anyway, I digress.

In my defense, I was partially kidding but I did want to bring the dirt to his attention. I was

annoyed because I knew that I would be cleaning it up if I didn't say anything. I know he didn't do it on purpose but I'm not sure that he realized what he was doing. It really isn't a big deal but I tend to get critical when someone does something different than I would. Apparently, I have the most common sense so everyone should just do things my way.

Well, we exchanged words and one of us could have said something along the lines of "I don't know how I am going to survive the next fifty years of this marriage." Of course we will survive however long God gives us with each other because we made a commitment to God and to each other to not only survive but thrive in our marriage.

When Chris came home from the gym and the store with a bag full of stuff, I asked him what he got. He calmly announced that he bought some flowers. Knowing that he was upset with me when he left, I asked him why he got flowers. If I remember right, he said he got them because he was mad at me but he loves me still. I need to mention that these flowers are my most favorite flower and he picked a shade close to one of my favorite colors.

Chris demonstrated what real love is all about: Choosing to love and showing that love even when we may feel like harboring a grudge instead.

Thank you, Chris, for choosing to love me even when I am unlovable. Thank you for showing what it means to love. Those precious boys have an important example of a husband who chooses to love his wife.

And hopefully Missrude will take a long walk off a short pier. Gosh, I don't think anyone says that anymore but it was very popular when I was a teenager. Ugh, I'm dating myself so I think I'll stop now.

Verse 6

2009-03-15T13:31:00.002-07:00

It's time to add another verse to the year-long scripture memorization.

Psalm 139 (NIV)

O LORD, you have searched me and you know me

2You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.

3You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.

4Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O LORD.

5You hem me in-behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me.

6Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain.

Beth Moore, the one who came up with this challenge, has arranged a get-together at her home church in Texas next January for those of us who can complete this challenge.

Can I just say, I am going to Texas next January! I told Chris about it and now I just have to save up my money. And maybe find someone to travel with to share a hotel room and car.

OK, it's time to wake up from this little dream. I want to go but I'm not sure that it will be possible. For now I will keep memorizing and bathing my brain in God's Word.

(And keeping the dream alive!)

Eighth Anniversary

2009-03-12T05:37:00.000-07:00

Why haven't I put up a post lately?

Could it be that I am really boring with nothing exciting going on in my life?

Or maybe there has been what seems like never-ending sickness invading my home and I just don't have the energy to blog.

Perhaps I have so many deep and disjointed issues floating around in my head.

Actually, all of the above.

When I began this blog about four months ago, the purpose was to simply document the days and happenings of my family; a kind of journal/scrapbook of sorts. At this point I have one official follower and I know of one other reader(my husband). And although I am very close with the rest of my family, I haven't thrown out my blog address for all to read. I don't have the intention to be a popular blog read by thousands. Would that be cool? Yes, in a way. But that is not my goal. I am not super smart nor do I have amazing insight, but even if I did, I just don't have a witty and clever way with words.

I originally thought that I would publish this blog in book form periodically for my children to read and look at someday. So, should I write about my deepest issues that may or may not directly affect my children? I don't want to hide who I am and what I've been through from them but is it an unnecessary burden to allow them to view the deepest part of my soul even when those circumstances are long over? Or would it help them to someday understand my actions and reactions to the different events in our lives? I think that this is the place I can go for a sense of therapy to unload my burdens and pain.

My prayer is that God will use me and my blog for His purpose despite my agenda as I relate my life to anyone who cares to read about it.

This month marks the eighth anniversary of the miscarriage of my second baby. This year I find myself deeply saddened when in years past it has seemed like a distant memory of another life. I was married to Josh's dad, D, and Josh had just turned one year old when we decided to try for another baby. I became pregnant right away but my body was not ready to carry a baby. The baby had stopped growing at around six to eight weeks and I was fourteen weeks along when I miscarried. I never found out the gender of the baby but I am almost certain that it was a girl. Call it mother's intuition. I had even already picked out an adorable pink romper to bring her home from the hospital in. She was due to be born September 2, 2001 and I was really excited for her arrival. I know that God knew what I was about to face in the coming months and years with her father and knew the best thing for me was to call her to Him.

I am not sure that I ever really grieved the loss of my baby since the circumstances surrounding the miscarriage carry such tremendous physical and emotional pain that have seemed to overshadow the actual event of losing a baby.

It was late on a Thursday evening when I began hemorrhaging. I called the hospital numerous times to speak with the doctor on call and was told to keep waiting. D was there through it all and to his credit, was very supportive and helpful. I spent a lot of time in the bathroom covered in blood when we finally decided to ignore the doctor's orders and head to the hospital. As I was getting out of the tub, with D's help, I fainted. D could not wake me so he called an ambulance which then transported me to the hospital. I underwent an emergency D&C without much pain management. Usually a general anesthetic is used but the emergency doctor was afraid I would go into a coma so she opted to use a cervical pain block.

I was admitted to the hospital overnight for observation and to keep fluids pumping through two IVs in my arms since I lost so much blood. I did not sleep at all but cried all night long. I had many vitals checks and a cuff taking my blood pressure every fifteen minutes. I was visited by a grief counselor early in the morning and was finally seen by a doctor so that I could be released.

I called D to come and get me since he had to be at our home with Josh. As I was waiting for him to get there, my roommate asked me if she could play her music. Of course I agreed and she instantly began to play some praise music. I wish I could remember the song but it has escaped my memory. It turns out that she had breast cancer and was recovering from surgery. Her sweet, calming voice dried my tears.

I went home and promptly fell asleep on the couch. D made me some lunch and I slept some more. I was extremely weak, very sore, and physically drained. Josh came home from his grandma's and D took off with his friends to, admittedly, do drugs and sleep it off on some body's couch. I was completely unable to care for Josh so my sister-in-law, Angela, came to my house with her two girls to take care of us both. She fed and bathed Josh and put him to bed. I am sure she asked how I was feeling emotionally about the miscarriage, but to be honest, I was more hurt by D's desertion. I was not fully aware at that time of his behavior but I was certain that he was completely selfish and uncaring. He did not come home that night or for the entire next day and his mom had to come take care of Josh.

Five days later, when I was still very ill, he told me that he wanted a divorce and that he wanted me moved out by the end of the month. He retracted the request later that day but it fermented in the recesses of my mind for the rest of our marriage and maybe for the rest of my life. I do believe that he felt trapped and that he was finally able to end our miserable marriage when we were no longer expecting our baby. Truthfully, our marriage and relationship were in trouble since the day it started and perhaps I will blog about that someday.

For now, I am thankful that D had the guts to tell me he was miserable, albeit in a none-too-gentle way. It changed the course of my life. I am thankful for Angela who helped me emotionally and physically through one of the toughest challenges I have faced so far. But mostly, as a daughter of divorced parents, I am thankful that God called that baby Home and that she didn't have to survive the divorce of her parents. I grieve the fact that I never got to know her and that she wasn't able to be a part of all the fun things that Josh and I have done together and now as a part of a new family. But she is waiting for me in the presence of Jesus and I know that I will meet her someday. Meanwhile, she and my grandma are singing the Lord's praises together and for that I am glad.

Scripture

2009-03-02T12:38:00.000-08:00

It's time to add a verse to the memorization project. Since I am doing the entire passage from Psalm 139, I will add verse 5:

1 O LORD, you have searched me and you know me 2You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.

3You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. 4Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O LORD.

5You hem me in-behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me.

________________________________________________________

So much has happened this last week or so...

We've canceled our membership to the community center. We got a Wii and a Wii Fit about a month ago so I plan on doing my workouts from Yoga to Aerobics with it. It was getting really hard to get back to the community center to workout when I was there working in the morning so it will be easier to play on the Wii at home. Chris plans on joining a local fitness center which is a bit cheaper and much closer. We will also visit sometimes to play in the pool but just pay the day rate.

We've also canceled our telephone service since we don't use it very often. In fact, we go for days without a call. We are now using our iPhones exclusively but we were almost doing that already. The iPhone has been so nice to have. I have been able to look up directions and phone numbers to various places when I am lost or need some extra information. I have access to recipes on the go and I can even make my grocery list on it according to how the aisles in my grocery store are set up. Amazing time-saving stuff! Umm...I guess now I have to actually figure out how to set that up.

One more thing we canceled was our cable. We still have the basic cable so that we can get reception and, from what I understand, we need it for the new digital streaming. Oh, now I'm pretending to be technical? I really have absolutely no idea about any of it! Anyway, Josh was spending so much time in front of the TV and I know I am responsible for turning it off and asking him to find something else to do but, honestly, I don't have the energy to fight that battle. We now can order shows and movies online so I can better control what he is watching and how much. In fact, he watched a mom-approved movie on my laptop yesterday instead of watching a gazillion hours of Sponge Bob which is questionable at best and downright obnoxious at worst.

So since we have cancelled all of these we are saving over $130 a month and plan to put that in savings and pay off some debt.

(insert screeching halt noise)

On Wednesday, with our best laid plans to save money and pay some bills, my car broke down on my way to work. At 4:30 in the morning. It turns out that the motor needs to be taken apart and the lifter replaced and some threads re-threaded and some strong chemicals poured in or over something but all I could manage to understand of car-speak is that it is going to cost around $750. Yikes! And that is with the HOPE that it will work. HOPE people! Well, I am hoping and praying!

But that is nothing. Only material and trivial.

On Monday of last week my grandfather was diagnosed with esophageal cancer. He was having trouble eating and went to the doctor to have his esophagus expanded. The doctor inserted the tool down his throat and ran into a mass. It was unexpected but it seems as though it was caught early and can be removed with surgery and radiation if they can't get it all out. It has been scary and sad. I am not sure how to explain it, but if his time on earth were through and God was to call him Home, I would be excited for him. The love of his life has gone before him and he would be able to meet Jesus face to face. I have no doubt God would gaze upon him and proclaim "Well done, My good and faithful servant!" But right now the outcome looks good.
Gramps turned 78 on the day of his diagnosis but has always seemed much younger. He works as an usher for the Chicago Cubs (his all-time favorite team since he was a whipper-snapper), runs a contracting business with my uncle, and loves to work on projects around our homes. He personally built our deck, laid our kitchen and bathroom floors, installed our kitchen cupboards and appliances, and is currently drawing up plans to finish and remodel our basement, all within the last three years. And that is only my home! I dearly love the man and hope that he has at least 20 more healthy years with us here, but it really is in God's hands and He has the ultimate best-laid plans for Gramps, and the rest of us for that matter.

This is Gramps holding Andy in the hospital. Handsome fellas!

Speaking of Andy, he's had a nasty cold and cough for a couple of weeks now so I decided to take him in today to see if there was something more to it and, sure enough, he has developed a double ear infection. Poor little guy! So hopefully he will start to feel better once we get some antibiotics in his system. He did manage to charm all the ladies in the office, though, despite feeling miserable. Lord, please help us all!

Tribute

2009-02-23T11:53:00.000-08:00

The other day my friend Amy blogged about me. Yep. Little ol' me. It was totally unexpected and very flattering. But the really cool thing about the post is that it got me thinking about our friendship and what an amazing influence Amy has been in my life. We met in 1989 when we were 12 and in 7th grade. I still lived in Shoreview but my mom was dating Keith and we would go to his church on Sunday nights, the same church Amy attended. My mom married Keith as I was entering 8th grade and we moved to his town. I started attending the same small private school that Amy went to. What's really funny is that we could get together for coffee, say, this weekend, and call it our 15 year high-school reunion since we were the only two in our class. Anyway, we soon moved to a new house and I was delighted to discover that it pretty much backed up to Amy's house. We spent a lot of time at each other's homes and she became a part of my family. One of my favorite memories ever is the tradition that after every school Christmas program we would go to her house and make gingerbread houses. Ask Amy about Todd Proctor in the window! Riot!
Amy and I would talk about school and church and youth group and boys but I was, admittedly, much more boy-crazy than she was. We also talked a lot about spiritual "stuff". I grew up in a household of believers in Christ and knew all about God. One day, though, as Amy and I were chatting in her room, I mentioned that I had never had that conversation with Jesus that I wanted to start a relationship with Him. Amy made it very clear that I can ask Jesus into my heart at anytime (even when you are 14 years old), so there, on her bed, I asked Jesus to live in me and through me. Amy bowed her head and prayed for me too.
Even though Amy has faced some really challenging trials from typical teenage angst to losing her mother, Amy has always had a heart for God and an amazing faith. Amy has always been a fabulous friend even when life has taken us on very different paths. Amy is a wonderful mother and delights in her children. I believe Amy enjoys scrapbooking. She is insanely creative. She's always had a knack for writing and making me laugh. I think she may possibly like trying new recipes too so I will post a really easy and kid-friendly recipe at the bottom, since she asked so nicely! One more thing about Amy: She has incredible blue eyes and really straight teeth. I've always envied those traits of hers.
Amy, I don't think that I have ever taken the time to look beyond myself to ever thank you for being such a great friend so this is my "Thank You" tribute. I'm sorry I don't have any traffic to send your way other than my husband. But if anyone is reading this, check Amy out. You won't be sorry.

Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken

2 tbls olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 c dry bread crumbs
2/3 c Parmesan cheese, grated
1 tsp dried basil
1/4 tsp pepper
6 chicken breasts

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Lightly grease a 9x13 baking pan.
In a bowl, mix the olive oil and garlic.
In another bowl, mix the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, basil and pepper.
Dip each chicken breast in the oil mixture then the bread crumb mixture.
Arrange the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking pan and top with any remaining bread crumb mixture.
Bake 30 minutes, or until chicken is no longer pink and juices run clear.

Roasted Potato Wedges

4 large potatoes
2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dry mustard
1/2 tsp dried rosemary
1/4 tsp sugar
1/4 c water
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
salt and pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
Cover the bottom of a 9x13 baking sheet with parchment paper
Cut potatoes into wedges (each potato should make 8 wedges)
In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, paprika, dry mustard, salt, pepper, rosemary, and sugar with a whisk.
In a large bowl, place potato wedges and water.
Pour oil and seasoning mix over potato wedges and mix to coat.
Place potato wedges in a single layer onto baking sheet and pour any remaining mixture over them.
Bake potato wedges 35-40 minutes until tender and golden brown.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

"Yummo!"

2009-02-19T14:24:00.000-08:00

Last night for dinner we ate tacos with the normal toppings; lettuce, tomatoes, taco blend shredded cheese, and sour cream. Instead of ground beef, we make the taco meat with ground turkey and a low sodium mix. It's really difficult to tell the difference. We do eat whole wheat tortillas but we happened to have some flour tortillas so Josh and I ate those. I love to put guacamole on my tacos but I couldn't find an avocado when I went grocery shopping. Bummer.
We also had whole grain tortilla chips with all natural salsa.
Dinner was delish and I felt very proud of myself as I fed my family a healthy meal.

Then it was dessert time!

This is one of Josh's and my favorite desserts.

I can take back all the pride in my healthy meal and indulge in a little bit of heaven on earth that I call Sopapilla Sundae.

It is a fried tortilla sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar, topped with a healthy scoop of vanilla ice cream, drizzled with chocolate and caramel syrups, and surrounded with a few dollops of Redi-Whip.

Just the perfect ending to a taco dinner and I ate every last bite! Josh even licked his plate.

In the words of Rachael Ray, "Yummo!"

Winter Wonderland

2009-02-18T13:25:00.000-08:00

We were reminded this morning that winter
is not over. It started snowing last night and went through the morning. It was a heavy, sticky snow because of the warmer temperatures. Perfect for snowmen! Or snowballs!

Our woodpile is covered in snow waiting until we can use it for our summer bonfires. I am ready for all the snow to melt away and for spring to arrive with the promise of a hot, sunny summer.

The little critters made tracks in the snow through our yard. This one is a bunny track (or two). There is an abundance of those pesky garden-eaters in our neighborhood! I am looking forward to a garden filled with tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce and maybe some sunflowers this year. I just have to figure out a way to keep those pesky little garden-eaters out!

The clouds rolled away revealing a beautiful blue sky and a warm sun to melt away the snow. Did I mention that I am looking forward to some warmer weather?

Memorization

2009-02-15T15:02:00.000-08:00

Last December, Angie Smith had a scripture memorization "challenge" on her blog. I was so excited to be a part and to "hide" God's Word in my heart.

I made it through verse 8.

Out of 24.

Then I gave up. I'm not sure why but I think it's because I didn't make the passage readily available and I got lazy about looking it up. I fell behind and became discouraged with myself.

Beth Moore is conducting a year long Scripture memorization "program" on her blog. You choose a verse to memorize on the 1st and 15th of every month and record it.I am a bit late in starting it for the year but I plan on catching up these next two weeks with the first 4 verses.

I will memorize Psalm 139 (NIV) which was the passage that Angie had chosen. It has 24 verses which is perfect for the year and it is very affirming of God's love for me.

So here we go! I mean, here I go!

Psalm 139:1-4(NIV)
1O Lord, You have searched me and You know me
2You know when I sit and when I rise: You perceive my thoughts from afar
3You discern my going out and my lying down; You are familiar with all my ways
4Before a word is on my tongue You know it completely, O Lord

This should be very doable and there will be reminders on her blog to keep me on track. I am excited to learn what God has to teach me through His Word.

My Valentine

2009-02-14T09:19:00.000-08:00

Caring
Heartfelt
Respectful
Intelligent
Singer
Tender
Opinionated
Persevering
Hot
Everlasting Love
Reliable

Joyful
Optimal
Handsome
Noble

Resourceful
Unbeatable
Sexy
Servant of God
Excellent
Loving
Listener

Off to War

2009-02-12T12:05:00.000-08:00

Today I was going to post some cute kid stories but then something happened this morning that affected me much more than I expected.

I work at the Veteran's Memorial Community Center in Inver Grove Heights but more specifically, The Grove. I have to be there to open my end of the building at 5am for members to use the fitness equipment, pools and track. This community center, as typical, also houses a National Guard facility.

Just this morning, the 34th Red Bull Infantry division was deployed to Iraq. The ceremony was held around 7:30am and the 7 buses carrying the soldiers pulled out of the parking lot around 8:30am. I watched from my desk as friends and families and members of The Grove, virtual strangers to these men and women, waved goodbye from the grass under The Stars and Stripes.

I knew this day was coming since several of the members of the National Guard are also members of The Grove and have cancelled their memberships due to their deployment. When one would mention their upcoming tour I never knew if I should express sympathy or pride or gratitude, so instead, I matched their stoicism and acted as if it were no big deal.

Even though I have had friends and family of my own (currently a distant cousin and a pseudo cousin-in-law) endure long front-line tours in Iraq and I have prayed for (and worried about) their strength of mind and body and definitely for their safety, their service just never seemed to affect me so deeply. I don't know if it has been ignorance or apathy. Perhaps a mixture of both with a bit of narcissism mixed in to be honest.

So today, as I tearfully watched their departure from behind my desk, I committed to praying for these soldiers who are fighting for our freedom and our safety. I committed to learning more about their mission specifically and the possibility of correspondence. That is so hard to put in black and white because it means that I actually have to do something besides hide in my own little world doing my own little thing. I have to attempt to reach out beyond myself which is not an easy thing for this shy introvert. I read a blog post today that caused me to think about stepping out of my comfort zone. I wish I could remember what it was but it was good.

And then knowing knowing these men and women would miss their spouses, children, parents, friends and Christmas this year broke my heart.

I wish that I could wrap this post up neatly but the truth is that it is just the beginning. I don't want to forget about my commitment so I'll start here. Feel free to check it out and please pray for these soldiers on the other side of the world.

Bathtime For Baby

2009-02-11T11:04:00.000-08:00

Andy is terribly crabby only about every night and the one thing that makes him happy is a good dip in the tub. He crawls around chasing his toys and making waves. He recently discovered splashing and that it not only makes for a fun noise but also drenches the entire bathroom and anyone that may be in there with him. And sometimes he even inadvertently creates a spa experience with, ahem, bubbles.

But even bathing can be exhausting...

and slightly prune inducing.

I would have some pictures of Josh but it's probably not so appropriate to take and post pictures of a 9-year-old bathing. Just sayin'.

Alright! Alright! Here is Josh acting like his goofy self and me on the other side of my new Canon XSi SLR camera.

I still have a lot to learn about my camera but one thing I do know for sure, Josh is so darn cute!!

T! G! I! F!

2009-01-30T13:42:00.000-08:00

I am so glad it's Friday and I am so ready for the weekend. It has been a long week with a cold and with a baby with a cold. Ugh!

I took a really long deep nap today and I had dreams about stuff that I have never seen with my own eyes and I am pretty sure don't even exist. It is so strange how our subconscious makes stuff up. I am sure that's how many an invention have come about though. Maybe my dreams were telling me something...

Yeah, probably not.

I don't really have many plans for the weekend. My gramps is driving up from north of Chicago and should arrive this evening so we will probably go out for dinner tonight. We may go to the community center water park on Saturday. Andy takes after Josh in the fin department so they will have a good time playing in the water together. On Sunday we are invited to my brother and sister-in-law's for a party to watch the Super Bowl. We'll go for a little while but since I have to be up before the sun we'll come home before the game is over.

Of course, these plans are subject to change. The weather could actually reach above freezing this weekend so I have to take advantage of that before we're back in the deep freeze for another three months at least. Remember, this is Minnesota. We don't really get warm before July. Although, when the temperature hits 40 to 50 degrees we are positively giddy and go around coatless. It actually elicits grins from those not usually inclined to grin. Ah, something to look forward to.

One more thing to add to this hodgepodge of a post...

This picture was taken on New Year's Eve. We were on the Minnehaha Light Rail to Downtown Minneapolis to see the Macy's Holiday display. We love riding the train!

Souper Saturday

2009-01-24T17:16:00.000-08:00

Rachael Ray sent me an e-mail recently with a recipe for Pasta e Fagioli. Okay, so she sent the e-mail out to hundreds of thousands of people. Alright, she probably didn't even send out the e-mail herself but I like to think that if she would just get to know me we would be very good friends.
In fact, when she was here at the Mall of America a while ago, I was so excited to meet her. I carted both of my Rachael Ray cookbooks (I've since gotten more) to the book signing just to find out that I needed a wrist band. By the time I made it there after work they had been out of them for six hours and the people who had them had been waiting in line since that morning. Oh, such a sad day. I was severely dejected and seriously trying not to cry as I climbed the floors trying to catch a glimpse of Rachael. I've gotten over it but it's not a proud memory.
Someday I will meet her but until then I just have to pretend that she sends me her recipes in a gesture of friendship.

Pasta e Fagioli with Sausage

Ingredients

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO), plus more for drizzling

1 1/2 pounds sweet or hot bulk Italian sausage, or links, casings discarded

1 large carrot, finely chopped

2 to 3 ribs celery from the heart, finely chopped

1 onion, finely chopped

3 to 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped

1 bay leaf

2 sprigs rosemary

3 to 4 sprigs thyme

Salt and pepper

One 32-ounce container
(4 cups) chicken broth

One 18-ounce can
cannellini beans

1 cup ditalini pasta

Grated pecorino-romano or parmigiano-reggiano cheese,
for serving

Crusty bread, for mopping

Directions

1. In a soup pot, heat the EVOO, 1 turn of the pan, over medium-high heat. Crumble in the sausage and cook, stirring, until browned, 3 to 4 minutes. Add the carrot, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaf, rosemary and thyme; season with salt and pepper. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chicken broth, beans and 2 cups water, cover the pot and bring the soup to a boil over high heat. Stir in the ditalini, lower the heat and simmer until al dente. Discard the bay leaf and rosemary and thyme stems.
3. Serve the soup in bowls with a drizzle of EVOO and lots of cheese. Serve with bread for mopping.
Serves six.

This was really good for a cold winter night. We enjoyed it a lot and plan on making it again. Thanks Rach!

Letter to the President

2009-01-20T12:50:00.000-08:00

Dear President Obama,

On this day, the first day of your presidency, I am proud and excited to be an American citizen and a witness to history. Even though you did not receive my vote and I am sad to see former President Bush leave office, I will respect your position and I will pray for you.

As I have been watching the pomp and circumstance of today's ceremony, I pray that you do not allow celebrity to override your judgement and fame replace your good intentions but instead allow humility to guide your actions. I am aware that, in your sheer humanity, you will make mistakes and disappoint at times and so I pray that you have a humble heart before God and the world and that you diligently seek His will as you lead our nation.

Although there are those who resist change, I am cautiously optimistic that all can work together to fulfill your hopes for change. Please be aware that you cannot accomplish those goals on your own and make efforts to seek the advice of those who have gone before you. Just know that you have my support and my prayers as you take on the responsibility to protect and serve the people of America.

Sincerely,
___________________________________
More thoughts...questions really...
As I was watching the inauguration processes today, the questions started when the ceremony was over and President Obama walked former President Bush to the helicopter. Former President Bush waved his last goodbye to the White House that had been his home and housed those closest to him for eight long years. I wondered what his thoughts were at that moment. Was he sad, happy? Was it a bittersweet feeling? Was he welcoming the time when his life would have some semblance of normalcy again?
What was President Obama thinking when he climbed halfway up the stairs to wave goodbye to the one who had taken him under his wing for the last two months? Was he excited for the adventure ahead of him? Nervous that he was on his own now? Thankful that he is no longer under the Bush Administration?
I guess I will never know what they were feeling and thinking. I can't even imagine how I would feel in either of their shoes or in the shoes of their wives. I have only recently become interested in politics so before this election I would learn just enough about the candidates to make a vote and not think twice about it. I have decided to become more educated about our democracy and in the process I have applied my own personal feelings to it. I have a lot more to learn but there are some things I will never know.

Karate Chop

2009-01-17T16:00:00.000-08:00

Josh was promoted to Advanced Brown Belt at his Karate graduation today. I am so proud of him and hope that one day he will understand the dedication and motivation it took to get him to this point. And I'm just talking about me!

The next belt is the ultimate Black Belt and anybody who's seen Karate Kid once or eighty-five times knows that it is the highest ranking belt in Karate. And anybody who watched Karate Kid knows that it means his very body is a weapon. Now that I think about it, I don't think Josh has ever seen Karate Kid. I know it's on various cable channels once every couple of weeks so we should be able to watch it soon.

Anyway, it's taken us five years to advance to this level and it will probably take at least a year to achieve his Black Belt. So another year of kicking and screaming. Another year of whining and carrying on about having to go to class. But some year he will thank me for not letting him give up and for pushing him to finish what he started...I pray.

Josh is getting his new belt tied on by his school instructor.

We jokingly referred to this belt as the advanced "tan" belt since it seems to be a much lighter shade than the usual brown. We'll take it though!

We celebrated Josh's success with lunch at the best place on earth. I was going to post a picture of my plate of goodness but I forgot to take one. It's safe to say I pretty much had a one-track mind at that point.

Congratulations Josh! I love you and I am so very proud of you!

Another Cold Day

2009-01-16T15:11:00.000-08:00

So how did we spend another bone-chilling cold day?
We spent it at Treasure Island Resort and Casino!
First we had lunch at the buffet (and when I say buffet I mean the largest buffet known to man). After stuffing ourselves silly, we went to play a friendly game of bowling to burn off the several thousand calories we just consumed.

Andy doesn't weigh much more than the bowling ball.

Josh's form is so bowler-pro!

I'm sure this is a shot of Chris getting one of many strikes. He's too good!

Truth be told, I posed for this picture. It didn't turn out as cute as I was hoping. I kinda look like I am about to roll down the lane along with my ball. How unfortunate.

If you will notice, the highest score happens to be after my name and since this is my blog I get to post the one game of three that I won. Just to be fair, we rolled some granny balls. Josh rolled the most and Chris tried a few but I still won and that's what matters.

_____________________________
This morning was even colder than yesterday morning but it warmed up quite nice today. The mercury even rose above zero just a little bit. Believe it or not, it truly felt warmer. As we say here in the frozen tundra, "Only in Minnesota". OK, maybe I'm the only one that says that but I'm almost positive others have muttered the same sentiment.

The deep freeze is over and a heat wave is headed our way. Next week should be in the 30s so maybe I will join a friend of mine who is thinking about planting her bikini-clad body on our local beach to soak up some sun.

Or maybe not.

Breathtaking

2009-01-15T12:30:00.000-08:00

And not in a good way.

In the way that school has been canceled for fear that our children's noses will freeze and fall off their faces in a matter of minutes as they wait for the bus to pick them up.

In the way that the our car doors are frozen shut and you have to use a blow dryer and extension cord to thaw them out.

In the way that as soon as you put away the blow dryer and the extension cord that you used to thaw them out they are frozen again.

In the way that your nostrils freeze together and your lungs become glaciers in your chest with your first frigid breath.

In the way that your fingers and toes instantly harden into ice cubes.

Yes, the sheer fact that it is -20 degrees with a wind chill of -40 to -50 degrees is enough to take your breath away.

___________________________

Since school is a canceled today, Josh and I have played the States and Capitols Sequence game that he got for Christmas, made a nice hot lunch(reheated at least), and have taken turns entertaining Andy. We are enjoying our warm home together and will not attempt to venture out since it is so cold and it's difficult to take a baby out in this cold weather.

So it's all about thermal wear and hot cocoa today but, as a I've been reminded recently, "Spring is on the way!"

In my opinion, far, far away.

A New Year

2009-01-08T13:04:00.000-08:00

I am not one to make resolutions for a new year and, if I did, I am certainly not one who actually accomplishes that resolution. But this year is different. I know, everyone says that a time or two or every year but this year really is different.

It is a matter of choosing to live or merely waiting for death.

I need to choose to learn to trust the Lord and make a relationship with Him a priority. Not just a priority but the number one priority. That means spending time in the Word and talking to Him. That means stilling my heart and listening and believing He is GOD and He is good ALL the time. That means praising Him even through the trails of life.

I need to choose to love Chris everyday and make it a priority to show him that love even when it becomes a completely unnatural reaction. He should come second in my life not only for the sake of our marriage but for the sake of our family. That means learning to submit to him the way God intended for a wife to submit to her husband. That means not expecting him to make me happy in our marriage but expecting God to make me holy in our marriage as I obey Him. It also means making time to read the Bible and pray together and to schedule good old-fashioned dates with him.

I need to choose to show Josh and Andy love every day. I need to choose to be Jesus to them. That means teaching them about God's love and praying with them and for them. That means demonstrating patience, kindness, gentleness and especially self-control so that as they forge their own path on the earth, they will choose to love God and always be seeking His will in their lives. That means letting them make their own mistakes and loving them through the sorrows of this world.

I need to choose to surround myself with those who intend to lift me up instead of tear me down. I need to choose to be someone who fills others lives with love and acceptance instead of passing judgements. That means letting go of one-way relationships that only drain me. That means evaluating those relationships that I may take for granted and taking the time and effort to continually show them how much I really do care without expecting anything in return.

I need to choose to put myself on my priority list and start really taking care of myself on the outside as well as the inside. That means regularly exercising, eating healthy, and getting enough rest. That means enjoying bubble baths and pedicures and a really nice haircut. That means accepting myself as I was made in the image of God.

It comes down to this: I must choose to love. Love God, others, and myself.

This is my resolution for this new year and all the years to come.

This post has taken me days to put into words but these words seem to inadequately describe what is in my heart. This is truly just a beginning of surrendering my will to God as He fills me like no earthly being can.

Lord, please grant me strength and diligence as I surrender my will for Yours and choose to love. Let those who I see everyday witness the glow of Your love in me. Please put in my heart the desire to demonstrate grace as You would. Give me a JOY that knows no bounds and a peace that passes all understanding. Thank You for all You've done in me and for me. Thank You for all You plan to do in my life as I follow You. This I pray in the name of Jesus!

A Savior Is Born

2008-12-26T05:15:00.000-08:00

When I was younger, and honestly, not even that long ago I would find myself disappointed and sad when Christmas day was over. For a long time I couldn't figure out why I was feeling that way. Finally, maturity revealed that I was searching for fulfillment which I believed would come with the gifts that I would receive. But even though I received many great gifts, that sense of fulfillment was always just out of my grasp.

I finally discovered, after several sad Christmases, that fulfilment does not come with getting "stuff".

This year, the day after Christmas, I find myself feeling sad and disappointed all over again. But for completely different reasons. Or are they?

This year, more than most years, I wanted to create a season of traditions and festivities for my family. Since we are a fairly new family and since this is Andy's first Christmas, I wanted to make it memorable. I tried really hard to come up with and actually follow through with activities that could possibly become traditions for my family.

Soon into Christmas morning my high expectations were dashed to the ground and I found myself in tears for reasons that aren't worth rehashing. Then later that day when faced with what I feel to be a major rift in my extended family, I just became inconsolable. The usual issues began even when I have made all efforts to change things. The problem is when other people let their pride get in the way and the rift continues. This has never been how my family operates and I am beside myself to think that some people who are supposed to be close choose to keep their distance and not follow forgiveness with grace.

Needless to say, when spending time with my family is among my most favorite things, I felt purposely left out and like a fifth wheel. I am very grateful for my mother who was happy to play with Andy and talk with me.

As I have been attempting to break out of the sadness and to heal some of the hurt I realized that I was looking for fulfilment from people and acceptance but the only One I can count on is Jesus. How must He feel when I purposely disclude Him when what He wants most from me is my time? He wants to show me His heart. He accepts me just as I am. He wants to reveal His purpose for my life. Yet I continue the "rift" between us because I don't have time for Him.

Let me correct that.

I don't make time for Him like I should. All the reasons why are truly a jumble in my head and at this very moment are being sorted in my heart. But I certainly have a long list of reasons which will be addressed as soon as I can get even a portion dealt with.

What I do know is that even when I choose to leave God out He is always there. He is ready to meet me where I am at and loves me despite my "issues." He sent His son Jesus to show me just how much He loves me. A Savior is born to heal the "rift" I have placed between God and myself. God always follows forgiveness with grace. His acceptance is blessedly overwhelming.

Do not grieve, for the JOY of the Lord is your strength.
Nehemiah 8:10

Let The Whirlwind Begin

2008-12-19T10:11:00.000-08:00

My in-laws will soon be driving over from Oconomowoc, WI for an early Christmas together since my mother-in-law has to work on Christmas day. If they brave the snowstorm socking the Midwest and throughout the country really, they should be here this evening sometime. If they decide to wait a day they will be here tomorrow. Well, that was profound! Anyway, they will be staying through Monday when Chris will be conducting his students in the Park High School Christmas concert.

Christmas Eve will dawn with a day of cleaning and preparing for the next round of family. Then it's off to celebrate the birth of Jesus our Savior at a Christmas Eve service at church where we reflect on the reason for this season.

By Christmas Day Andy should be a pro at opening gifts since he will have some practice before hand. Josh will be positively giddy with excitement at finally having a little brother to run to the stockings with. OK, Andy won't be running but he will be crawling at a mad dash. After our own little family time, we will head to my mom's to celebrate with my brothers and their families.

On Christmas day and the day after I will have my mom's side of the family from Illinois, Massachusetts, Georgia, and Indiana making their way here to Minnesota for the entire weekend. That is what I call our "big family Christmas!" Very original and creative, I know. Maybe I should rename it "Wonderful chaos".

My favorite thing about Christmas is spending time with my family but the cookies, cakes, pies, bars, fudge and all things sweet are a close second!

So, let the wonderful chaos begin...

Just as a side note, Andy cut his first tooth yesterday morning. Whew, finally after four months of drooling rivers. I know it's not over but it sure helps the ol' crabby mood when that tooth finally breaks through.

Another side note: I am fairly certain that Andy would much prefer to be running to the stockings with Josh since now he is pulling himself up on the furniture. He so wants to walk!

Josh's Birthday Parties

2008-12-09T12:25:00.000-08:00

Yep. Parties. He had two parties this year.

One with friends...

and one with family.

Josh was very excited about his new iPod touch!

Happy Birthday Josh!

2008-12-05T04:45:00.000-08:00

Today is Josh's 9th birthday! My, how the time flies. It seems like just yesterday he was born...

Saturday, December 4th, 1999

I was 38 weeks pregnant and I had just worked an 8 hour shift at TCF and was anxious to meet my grandparents and aunt and uncle, who were in town visiting, for dinner with other family at Cracker Barrel. After dinner, we went to another aunt and uncle's home to visit with each other even more. There was so much laughter and joy. One of the biggest laughs was the explanation of a neighborhood Christmas light display. We stayed really late and on our way home we passed by the ridiculous light display and laughed all over again. That night, as I was drifting off to sleep, I said to God, "OK God. I'm ready when you are."

Sunday, December 5th, 1999

5am I was wakened by pain. "Gas pain" I thought and went back to sleep. 5:15am I was wakened again by the very same pain but went back to sleep. 5:30am, same pain, sleep. 5:45am, one more time then back to sleep.

6:00am the pain finally catches my attention. Did I mention that I went to bed really late and that I was 38 weeks pregnant so I was very tired! Anyway, I walked upstairs since I was living with my parents and told my mom that I thought I was having contractions. She told me to try to get more sleep and time them as they were waking me up. Of course I couldn't sleep so I got up, showered and got my hospital bag ready. The contractions were still light and fairly far apart so I decided to watch one of my favorite movies, White Christmas, which was fitting since it was the Christmas season. My parents and grandparents, who were staying with us, were soon up and getting ready to go to church. I opted to stay home since I was technically in labor. After church, My family was meeting the other family members for lunch and I didn't want to miss out so I went to lunch timing my contractions as they were getting stronger and closer. When one would come I would lay my head on my mom's shoulder until it passed. My aunt gave me one amazing little tip about childbirth: "When you bear down to push, let out a small breath. That will help you control the push a little better." That one amazing little tip would soon come in very handy.

After a delightful though painful lunch my mom and I decided to go to Target and get a little more Christmas shopping done. With each contraction I would have to stop and lean over the cart handle as they were getting even stronger and closer. What a crazy shopping trip!

Back at home my mom and I started to really time the contractions to get an idea of how far along in labor I was. I called the hospital and they told me I could come in but since this was my first baby and they typically take longer, they may send me back home. That was the last thing I wanted so I decide to stay home a little longer.

That little bit longer was just a little bit too long. Suddenly the contractions became very strong and very close. It was time to go. I called Josh's father to have him come meet me at the hospital and my mom and I were on our way. Not very far down the road my mom realized that she would have to drop me off at the hospital while she went to park and that was not a good idea to her. She called a family friend of ours, Cheryl, and asked if she could take us. As I was waiting for her husband, Dave, to pull their van out of the garage, I had a terrible contraction that brought me to my knees. As soon as it was over I stepped into the van and, lo and behold, my water broke. In their van. How utterly embarrassing. I was so concerned about their seats that I asked Cheryl to get some towels. She told me it would be OK but I basically growled at her, again, to get me some towels. She graciously, and very quickly, honored my request.

We were on our way at lightning speed and possibly, no, actually, breaking a few more laws. I know this because when I looked at the speedometer it read 90mph. Also, when we stopped at red lights and then immediately proceeded the light was still red.

I was admitted to the hospital, checked immediately, and was very surprised to find that I was dilated to a 9 already. I soon had the desire to push but was told to wait since they weren't ready. It is impossible to fight that urge. Insanely impossible.

Josh was born at 6:02pm weighing in at 7lb 3oz, 19 in long. I looked at this incredible new baby and wasn't sure what to do. I just held my hands close to him but not touching him and saying over and over "Oh my gosh."

That day I was changed forever. My identity, my place in the world became clearly defined. I finally knew what it was to love. I was humbled by that precious gift cradled in my arms. I am still humbled by this gift I can no longer cradle in my arms but will always be cradled in my heart.

Lord, bless Josh today and everyday with Your peace and Your JOY. Protect his heart, his mind, his body, and his soul. I thank You for the multitude of blessings You have given and have yet to give Josh. I pray that he will be receptive to Your will and will always be seeking You. Let me, as his mother, be an example of a faithful seeker. Lord, thank You for giving me such a sweet gift in Josh.

Favorite New Toy

2008-12-01T15:23:00.000-08:00

At least that's what Andy thinks.

After many many no's and chasing Andy away from the Christmas tree I finally decide to let him explore this new shiny thing laden with toys, I mean ornaments, in our living room.

Andy decided he needed a closer view so he decided to go under the tree. He wasn't sure what to do since it was so prickly on his face and all the "toys" were on the outside. (Unless, of course, you count the tree skirt which was a source of happiness.)

Soon he had enough and it was time to crawl back out from underneath this wonderful toy that will bring joy for the next month because, little does he know, it's not here to stay.

Happy Belated Thansgiving!

2008-11-28T03:58:00.000-08:00

First of all, the initials for names thing is quickly getting old so I will be using real names from now on. Chris is the very loving and very intelligent husband, Josh is the smart and goofy soon-to-be nine year old, and Andy is the rapidly growing and very determined six-and-a-half month old.

OK. About Thanksgiving. This was my post on my Myspace blog page last year:

Since writing is not one of my strengths I don't usually blog, but I was thinking of a few things that I am thankful for on this day, Thanksgiving.
-a God who loves me beyond measure!!!
-my family(there are too many to list)
-great friends
-a warm home to live in
-my overflowing closet and dresser
-good food(anyone say TURKEY!)
-a nice soft bed and pillow
-snow and a hot summer sun
-the miracle of a new life
I too often take these things and more for granted. I just wanted to take some time to reflect on the many blessings in my life. Last night I did a little shopping with my husband and son. It was sooo cold and snowing. I usually end up complaining about the cold, which I did, but I also thought about the men and women and children that are stuck in the cold either homeless or unable to afford to heat whatever it is they call home. I got into a warm car then came home and turned up the heat in the house. I am so incredibly blessed! I need to take lots more time everyday to be grateful for all these blessings. Have a happy and blessed Thanksgiving! I know I will!

This year I actually acted upon what has been my hearts desire for many years. My heart has been heavy and my eyes fill with tears anew for those who struggle to make ends meet and really have nothing. I have had a life filled with blessings and abundance and therefore have felt overwhelmingly convicted to "give back." I have also desired to instill compassion and generosity in the hearts and minds of my children. So that being said, my family and I decided to attend the Walk To End Hunger Event at the Mall of America. Well, I decided for us but Chris and Josh (and even Andy), without complaint, joined in. I created our team page on the website and sent out emails to several people asking for donations and pledges. Little to my knowledge, most of the emails didn't make it to their destination. As soon as I discovered this problem, Chris sent out a Facebook plea for support. Our initial goal was $250 and we ended up raising $160. Not bad at all! Next year I will do things a little different knowing what I know now as far as gathering pledges but my plan is to make it a tradition. Nevertheless, it was a great experience for us and not only did it do our bodies good but also our hearts.
The really fun part of the morning for me is kinda selfish.

I was on the news!

Talking!

And I didn't sound like a blubbering idiot!

Andy doesn't like to hang out in his stroller for long periods of time (or short ones for that matter) so we took turns carrying him. At one point my arms got really tired so I put him on the floor, grabbed his hands, and began walking veerrryy slloowwllyy. First, one cameraman with a large camera began filming us, then Andy, walking. Then, another cameraman with another large camera began filming Andy. He got his shot and we continued to walk. That same cameraman approached us a few minutes later asking if I would do an interview. By this time Andy was in my arms again. I said "Sure" and so he asked me several questions. He said the first question was going to be really hard. I could tell that he was being facetious but I braced myself anyway.

"What is your name and how do you spell it?"
*Pause*
What is my name? What is my name? (It's really hard to concentrate when you have a large camera facing you and a bright light shining on your face.)
"Liz, L-I-Z, Russell, R-U-S-S-E-L-L."
"Where are you from?"
*Pause*
Where am I from? Where am I from?
"Cottage Grove."
And the rest I only vaguely remember.
What was shown on the news?
"To raise funds for the hungry and to teach my children to give back"

So only about three seconds of fame but..

I WAS ON THE NEWS!

The rest of the day was glorious. We spent time with family and friends chatting, laughing, and eating and I got to make turkey and stuffing in the oven for the first time. It turned out very well and I stuffed myself silly pretty much the entire day.

I am so thankful for many things but a blog that I read sent out this challenge. The Bible tells us to not only be thankful in the midst of everything but for everything also. That is incredibly hard as we face unbelievable tragedies and sad circumstances. My difficult thing to be thankful for truly is what I went through with Josh's father. It was the hardest thing I've ever had to face but God began shaping me and molding me through the tough times. He continues to do so when I allow Him. How can I be ungrateful for what God has given me even when I've had to go through the fire to obtain His blessings? That is something I must continually keep in my mind and heart.

What are you thankful for during this season of giving thanks? What feels completely unnatural to be thankful for?

JOY and gladness will be found in her, thanksgiving and the sound of singing.
Isaiah 51:3b

Raw Feelings

2008-11-26T03:42:00.000-08:00

I belong to a moms group, MOPS. I take AJ a couple times a month, put him in the nursery (nice break) and go discuss relevant topics for mothers of young children with other mothers. Oh, and we get to pig out on some really good food! We meet a couple times a month and every meeting has a "guest" speaker. We may have a Q & A time with the entire group but we always have time at the end for a discussion with our smaller group. Last week the topic was on schooling choices and the pros and cons to public, private, and home schooling.

Some background on me.

I spent Kindergarten through 7th grade in the public school system then attended a private school from 8th to 12th grade. It was a very small, unique K-12 school. At the time of my graduation there were about 45-50 students enrolled. At this time, 15 years later, I believe 75-80 students are enrolled.
I have often explained the atmosphere to be like a family or a small town feeling. Everyone is so close and knows each others business. I've also described it as a one-room-school-house. When I was attending, we all sat in the same room in divided desks and basically learned all the different subjects on our own at our own pace.
It definitely has its upsides (I try to impress people by telling them that I graduated second in my class, Salutatorian, but the truth of the matter is that I graduated last in my class since there were only two students) and drawbacks (again, everyone knows your business). I could publish blog after blog describing the private school I went to but I will spare everyone the details. Unless you really want to know, then I will tell you how it works.

JD is in 3rd grade and has been in the public school system since the beginning. I chose public school for various reasons. One being that his father requested that JD not attend a "religious school. Another reason is based on my own experiences with private schooling. CJ and I will most likely keep our children in the public school system since he is a teacher in a public high school.

So back to the MOPS meeting. There was a panel of three women with school-agers. Each has chosen a different way to school their children. As the session wore on I found myself getting very upset and wanting to leave. Apparently I still harbor anger and bitterness about my private school experience.

Don't get me wrong. I have many wonderful memories. Like singing and acting in programs that I probably would not have done in a public high school because of my excruciatingly shy nature. Also the close relationships that I was able to develop with other believers in my peer group.

I also have the not so good memories. I wish I could really nail down what I mean but I can't even explain it to myself. There was some serious dysfunction going on. Yeah we were taught about God and basic Christian values and morals that I still uphold to be true and right, ("where Christian principles are taught and caught") but some of the examples were less then exemplary and lots of the teaching was "cram it down your throat and agree to my every idea or pay" style. I guess my slightly rebellious nature was having a hard time with all the legalism and lack of humility on the part of some of those who were supposed to be my "mentors" and leaders.

I think I still feel so strongly because I have close friends and family still involved with the school. Also, within the last few years there was a HUGE dispute between the school and my former church in which it inhabited and associated with. The school has since moved to a different location and the church has since cut off any support and association.

The wound is still raw.

I will be working on letting go of the bitterness and sadness and allowing God to heal my heart. I will definitely be revisiting this topic and exploring my healing because I want to heal.

When we broke up into our smaller groups, I was beckoned via pager to gather my very unhappy, screaming infant. I breathed a sigh of relief because I didn't want to discuss the schooling topic. I was afraid of losing my temper and quite possibly breaking into tears. Not that I can't in that environment, I just want to know the ladies better before I get all psycho. It is sort of a hot topic with us women so we'll probably be discussing it again. I won't be taken by surprise next time and I will be ready to face my feelings.

I will give them comfort and JOY instead of sorrow.
Jeremiah 31:13b

On The Move

2008-11-19T04:25:00.000-08:00

It's official.

AJ is now crawling. For a couple of weeks now he has been getting up on his hands and knees and rocking, then he went up onto his feet and would sort of step forward and then fall on his belly making him that much closer to his desired destination which is usually the pile of cords to various things near the couch. (He hasn't learned the meaning of "no" yet.) He wasn't sure what to do with his hands but he has figured it out now. Last night he started plodding along putting one hand in front of the other and his knees (or feet) followed.

And he is only going to get faster.

I am so proud!

I am so scared.

If I thought looking after AJ was tough before, I will constantly be on my toes. Literally. He is an incredibly busy boy. In fact, I jokingly diagnosed him with ADHD in utero because of his constant busyness. Yeah, I know, ignorant. I mean no offense to those who actually suffer with ADHD. That is what crossed my mind, though ,as he was growing into a budding gymnast inside of me.

So maybe I will sleep better now since I will be spending most of my days chasing after "the road runner." Beep beep.

I have no greater JOY than to hear that my children are walking (or crawling) in the truth.
3 John 1:4

Birthday Boy

2008-11-10T12:02:00.000-08:00

One week ago, November 3, was CJ's 36th birthday. This year was the fourth year we have celebrated his birthday together. The first year landed us at the doctor's office...

It was officially our second date even though we had seen each other at church choir practice and hung out other times. CJ asked me to keep the night open for him so that we could go on date. He wanted it to be a surprise so he didn't tell me what we were doing. That evening he picked me up at my house and drove me back to his. As we walked in the door I could smell the lovely aroma of dinner cooking. I was really hungry! He gave me a tour of his home as the food finished cooking. After CJ dished up the delicious looking chicken, peas, and rolls we sat down to eat. He held out his hand for mine and prayed for our meal.

Just as I was picking up the knife to cut into my roll, CJ commented on the superb quality of the knives and how sharp they were. I found out just how insanely sharp they were! Not only did the knife cleanly cut the bread but it also cut right into my pinkie finger. I dropped the roll and calmly said to CJ, "Look what I just did." It took a moment for CJ to process the fact that blood was pouring out of my hand and completely covering the dinner he had just made that I hadn't even touched yet. Did I mention I was hungry?!

In what seemed like hours but were actually just seconds, CJ jumped out of his chair, raced to the hallway linen closet and grabbed his Boy Scout approved first aid kit. I was instructed to come to the kitchen sink to wash out my wound. With my head resting on his shoulder as I watched him clean and bandage my finger, I said in sick voice," I am going to need stitches." He seemed to agree so we promptly left for the doctor's office with our lovely dinner still on the table.

I was very glad and surprised to see my doctor since she was the one who happened to be on call that night. Dr. L assesed my wound and the nurse began preparing for sutures as I relayed the events that unfolded in the past half hour. Dr.L was very impressed with the wrapping that my Eagle Scout date had done. CJ held my good hand while Dr. L sewed up my finger. I need to mention that I was even more hungry at this point and very woozy with all blood and procedures. Dr. L had to tilt the head of the bed down to get blood flow to my head because she was concerned I was going to pass out. Finally it was time to go.

CJ was intending to take me home right away but I insisted that I was fine and that we had dinner to finish. We went back to his house and dished me up a new plate of food. Of course we had to use the microwave to reheat our food since the chicken and peas had cooled while we were at the doctor' office. CJ graciuosly cut my chicken for me after watching me struggle to hold the knife that I was now very afraid of. What a wonderful man. What an awkward situation.

I gave CJ his birthday gift which was a compilation of C.S. Lewis books. Needless to say, I was very surprised when he handed me a gift bag containing a DVD of The Notebook. I had mentioned how much I love that movie so CJ bought it so we could watch it together that evening. It ended up being a wonderful night where tragedy drew us together. OK, that might be overly dramatic but I will never forget how thoughtful and generous CJ was on his own birthday not to mention the care and concern when things went awry. That's when I began to fall in love with him.

I am sorry to say that I have forgotten how we spent years two and three but this year I made him dinner with no mishaps whatsoever. His gift was a long-obsessively-awaited iPhone 3G. We also visited the Twin City Model Railroad Museum in honor of his love of trains big and small.

I don't know what we will do next year or the next but I pray for many more birthdays with my wonderful husband.

But may the righteous be glad and rejoice before God; may they be happy and JOYful.
Psalm 68:3

Pumpkin Turkey Chili

2008-11-07T05:15:00.000-08:00

Lately I have been trying to cook more at home so that we don't go out so often. It is usually healthier and more affordable. I happen to stumble across recipes online or from others blogs. This one I found from a blog called Fordy Days And Nights and I believe the recipe was adapted from another blog. It doesn't sound very appetizing but it is so good! I made it for my family last night and it was a hit. Even JD liked it. He wasn't so sure about the pumpkin but it wasn't recognizable at all. Give it a try!

Pumpkin Turkey Chili

1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup chopped onion
1 cup chopped red bell pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb ground turkey
2 cans diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
1 can whole kernel corn, drained (14.5 oz)
1 can cannellini beans, drained (14.5)
2 cups pumpkin puree (canned pumpkin)
3 tbsp chili powder
2 tsp cumin
1 tsp oregano
1/4 tsp cayenne
2 tsp brown sugar
salt and pepper to taste
Toppings: shredded cheddar and sour cream

In dutch oven or similar pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until tender, about five minutes.
Add turkey and break up with spatula as it browns. Once it is evenly browned, mix in tomatoes, corn, beans, and pumpkin.
Season with the next six ingredients.
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about one hour.

This makes a thick chili. To make it soupier, add chicken broth until of desired thickness.

Top chili with sour cream and shredded cheddar cheese. EnJOY!

I think I will make this for my extended family at our weekend Christmas Party. We have started a tradition of a chili feed and this will be a new addition. We make the same kind every year in a huge pot but I will bring some of this for the more adventurous palettes. There are definitely some of those in my family.

Go, eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a JOYful heart, for it is now that God favors what you do. Ecclesiastes 9:7

Here Goes

2008-11-06T15:19:00.000-08:00

This is my first post and, quite frankly, I have no idea what I am doing. I will start with an explanation of my blog name. The first letters stand for the first names of my two boys. The oldest is JD and the youngest is AJ. Of course my husband, CJ, and I don't really call anyone in our household by their initials but for the sake of simplicity and possibly anonymity I will refer to them as such. No offense at all to those who go by their initials. JD is 8 years old and the one who changed my life forever just by his birth. If you are a mom then chances are you know exactly what I mean. More on that later. AJ is 6 months old and one of the biggest joys and challenges in my life. Again, more on that later. CJ and I were married in October of 2006, one of the best days of my life.
As I have been following several blogs over the last few months, I thought that my life was too boring to have a blog of my own. I don't suffer from infertility or have a terminal illness or know someone who does. I haven't lost a living child or had to plan a funeral for a baby who hasn't even been born yet. I do, however, want to have a place to go to archive funny things my kids do and say, the memories that my husband and I make with each other and with our family, and my feelings about what is going on in and around me.
I can't promise that all posts will be happy and pleasant but I want to strive for pure joy in all circumstances. The kind of joy that only God can give.
So welcome to my new blog! I hope and pray for joy to all!

Bring JOY to your servant, for to you, oh Lord, I lift up my soul. Psalm 86:4