a time for blogging

Sweet Moments with Aiden

2012-02-03T11:44:00.003-05:00

Listening to Aiden giggle while running up and down the levees' with him and Annie, our dog.

Listening to him remembering a time being out at the lake with Paw-Paw.

Listening to him imagining catching a 'cruise' (ship) with his fishing pole.

Seeing him have fun inspite of not catching any fish!

Enjoying the sound of the waves, the sea gulls, and the feel of the wind with one of the cutest kids I know.

Happy 2012!

2012-01-10T19:48:00.002-05:00

"God is looking for people through whom He can do the impossible. What a pity when we plan only the things we can do by ourselves." A.W. Tozer

This quote struck me over the holiday break and I thought it would be a good one to try and live by this year. So I have it posted on my fridge and have been 'chewing' on it a bit.
We so often, unintentionally even, put God in a box. We make desicions, or choose not to make desicions based on fear. We limit His power and might.

"Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more then ALL we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever"

Its not even when we ask that He so incredibly chooses to 'show up', He 'shows up' in ways that we cannot imagine!! I want to know Him and trust Him more. I want to thrive in life, not just survive in life. I want to be used by Him, not just attempt to do things in my own strength.

And the journey continues.....

Happy New Year!!!

The Big Day

2011-12-26T10:44:00.000-05:00

Alf and I checked the weather yesterday morning and it did not look good. The hourly forecast showed 80% chance of rain at the time we would be outside for the burial.

Throughout the morning I looked outside and saw rain coming down in sheets. I stressed over what we would do, and stressed over all who were driving in from Slidell, Baton Rouge, Mandeville, Covington, etc.

The service was beautiful, and it was time to go to the burial. I climbed in the van, turned toward the back to talk to the boys and I saw behind us a beautiful rainbow in the sky. A rainbow! THEN we drive off and the skies had cleared up!! It was windy and chilly, but very few raindrops. In fact, the sun even peeked out a little while standing outside!!! We were blessed with the 20% and He even threw in a rainbow :) It was so awesome, absolutely awesome! God is awesome!

Experiencing the death of my dad has reminded me that I am NOT the writer of this script:) Sure, there are days that I wish I could write the script. And there are other days when I think, "I could not write the script any better.'

The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and He delivers them. Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him. Fear the Lord, you His saints, for those who fear Him lack nothing. -- Psalm 34:7-9

Thanks to all of you (both near and far) for your love and support at this time. Hoping it is a beautiful Christmas for everyone!

Allison

A Time to Say Goodbye

2011-12-23T07:33:00.003-05:00

Dear family and friends,

Sunday morning, December 18th, Alf and I got a call that my dad was on the floor of a grocery store unconscious. We got to the emergency room and shortly thereafter, were told that they had tried for nearly an hour to resuscitate him, but he was dead. Having had a triple bypass only two years ago, this was not supposed to happen so soon.

He was 77, so we are grateful for the long life that he did have, but you're never ready for something like this. We are trusting in God, knowing he is good, and we are thrilled to serve a God where we can confidently say that he is in heaven....maybe even dancing with my mom :).

We would appreciate your continued prayer as we work through all the emotions that take place when something like this happens so suddenly.

We have made plans for the funeral to be on Thursday, December 22nd at Lake Lawn in Metairie (right off the interstate). Visitation will start at 10 and a service will take place at 12. If you are able to, we would enjoy having you. We desire for the time to be a celebration of his life, not simply a mourning of his death.

Thank you -

Allison Nelson

TRUST

2011-12-18T07:33:00.003-05:00

I comment to a man that God has given me a heart for, 'I am nudging you a bit' and he says don't nudge....push....shove.

And I look at God and think, 'WOW! you have called me to do this??!! Can I?'

There is a side of me that wants to run and give up. Take the 'easier' route. There is another side of me that wants to be all in. There is excitement, anticipation, hope....but I'm scared.

I wrestle with God - how do I push him? What does he know? Where does he desire you to take him? Am I doing enough? Am I doing to much? Am I going to screw up? Is he going to give up?

I ask the man, with hesitation and strength from God (and ready for rejection), if he would want to do breakfast with my husband and I. He was quick to say yes and said that it sounded great!

I ask God, are you really going to give me words to say what he needs to hear? How much am I going to hear of this guys life this morning? Is it going to be enough for me? Am I going to be ok with where this goes? I cry out, HELP me not to make this about me and my personal gain! Help me to make it all about you. It is all about you and your glory.

A couple years ago, as we were beginning this journey back home, I memorized the verse -Psalm 40: 1-3. At the end of verse three it says, ' many will see and fear and put there trust in the Lord.' I was eager to see who those many were. And how I would get to play a part in that.

I just need to trust.

TRUST. (sigh) TRUST.

Not walk away in fear that it wont go the way I want it to go.

Walk forward in faith and courage and in Spirit.....and then watch what the Lord does.

And my loving Saviour reminds me what its all about.....its all about HIM.

Being put in a place that is requiring me to trust HIM so, has made me draw nearer to Him and want to get to know Him more. Why trust you?? Who are you, really??

I think yesterday on a walk how we only have a glimpse of who God is, but that glimpse is enough to want to bow down and worship.

I read in A.Voskamps blog this - We may not know the outcome but we tenaciously believe that in Him we overcome - because Love comes down.

What a privilege it is......I have to go get ready for a breakfast now:)

Captivating

2011-11-30T12:35:00.002-05:00

This is taken from the book, CAPTIVATING Unveiling the Mystery of a Woman's Soul. These are great words that spoke to me and where I am in my faith journey.

"Unveiling our beauty really just means unveiling our feminine hearts.
It's scary, for sure. That is why it is our greatest expression of faith, because we are going to have to trust Jesus - really trust Him. We'll have to trust him that we HAVE a beauty, that what he has said of us is true. And we'll have to trust Him with how it goes when we offer it, because that is out of our control. We'll have to trust him when it hurts, and we'll have to trust him when we are finally seen and enjoyed. That's why unveiling our beauty is how we live by faith.
Unveiling our beauty is our greatest expression of HOPE. We hope that it will matter, that our beauty really does make a difference. We hope that there is a greater and higher Beauty, hope we are reflecting that Beauty, and hope it will triumph. Our hope is that all is well because of Jesus and that all will be well because of him. So we unveil beauty in hope. And finally, we unveil beauty in the hope that Jesus is growing our beauty. Yes, we are not yet what we long to be. But we are underway. Restoration has begun. To offer beauty now is an expression of hope that it will be completed.
And unveiling beauty is our greatest expression of love, because it is what the world most needs from us. When we choose not to hide, when we choose to offer our hearts, we are choosing to love. Jesus offers; he invites, he is present. That is how he loves. That is how we love - sincerely, as the Scriptures says, 'from the heart' (1Pt 1:22). Our focus shifts from self-protection to the hearts of others. We offer Beauty so that their hearts might come alive, be healed, know God. That is love."

If you Give a Mouse a Cookie.....

2011-10-05T11:04:00.002-04:00

Yesterday I spent most of the day around the house and thought a lot about the book, If you Give a Mouse a Cookie. I was feeling that that was becoming my day.....

If I start cleaning my house,
I will load the wash with dirty laundry,
I will then begin to clean the back bathroom,
then will see areas that need touched up painting,
then I will get the ladder and paint from the garage,
then I will discover after painting that the bathroom needed wiped down again,
then I notice the time and realize the laundry has been waiting for quite some time to be removed from the wash into the dryer,
when I fold some of my boys laundry and bring them to there proper drawers,
I start to remove clothes that don't fit and put them into a goodwill pile,
I will also observe that this cleaning house day still needs to be accomplished and I have very little time till I have to pick up kids! Ugh!

Katrina 6yr Anniversary

2011-09-14T22:29:00.004-04:00

On the morning of Katrina's 6 year anniversary, this is what was taking place across the street from my house. I found it amusing that it was happening on the actual anniversary date, August 29th. Its a house I have wished to see go for awhile. The house supposedly had never been gutted. Yep, it still had curtains in the windows. It sort of gave me the heeby-jeebies to think of what was growing in there!
It did not take long to see it fall to the ground. From what the neighbors say, the guy who owned the house was not doing well before Katrina. Once the hurricane hit, he moves back to live in a trailer in front of the house and drinks himself to death....basically. Its a sad story....there are many sad stories after Katrina. Katrina put a period on a lot of peoples lives. Fortunately, for many lives, it has been a renewing. Everyone has a story and every story is different from one to the next. I'm glad to be here and witness progress and even participate in progress:)

{Thanks to the Lot-next-door program, where home owners that live next to a home that needs to go, can purchase it (for next to nothing) as a yard and increase value to their home!}

Stay Grateful!

2011-07-23T10:13:00.003-04:00

Thankful for.....

friends that know me and still love me
music that speaks truth and for the funky kind that's fun to dance to!
air condition during New Orleans summers
laughter! ('can u spare a square')
color
hugs
Coffee
reading with and without my children:)
anticipation
mangoes
growth
creativity
accomplishment
my honey-bun:)
my garden
dreams
vacations
reflecting
my Savior
rain
blogging (something I hope I'll do more of)

The Simple Man

2011-07-03T00:02:00.003-04:00

What you see in this (blurry)picture is 12 of my husband's folded T-shirts that just came out of the dryer. 10 of the 12 T-shirts you see have blessed my husband's wardrobe at no expense to us. That is right, $0. Thanks to Kaboom, the Hornets, Compassion Int., UNO, Volunteers of America....the list goes on.....he has a plethora of shirts to choose from in the morning, and those T-shirts are what he chooses:)

I'm married to a simple man. A man that loves Jesus, that loves doing good, and that loves free T-shirts!

Blessings....he is blessed to have a job that allows him to wear such clothing any given week day. Facilitating mission teams and loving on neighbors in 100 degree heat....you bet he is going to wear a T-shirt.

I'm married to a simple man. A man that loves Jesus, that loves doing good, and that loves free T-shirts!

"Love Never Fails"

2011-06-27T10:22:00.003-04:00

By: Brandon Heath

Love is not proud
Love does not boast
Love after all matters the most

Love does not run
Love does not hide
Love does not keep locked inside

Love is the river that flows through
Love never fails you

Love will sustain
Love will provide
Love will not cease at the end of time

Love will protect
Love always hopes
Love still believes when you don't

Love is the arms that are holding you
Love never fails you

When my heart won't make a sound
When I can't turn back around
When the sky is falling down
Nothing is greater then this
greater then this

Love is right here
Love is Alive
Love is the Way, the Truth, the Life

Love is the river that flows through
Love is the arms that are holding you
Love is the place you will fly too
Love never fails you

School Life

2011-06-11T08:59:00.007-04:00

The year has finally come to an end, and what a year its been!

Two kids in two different schools, in two different areas of town, and two completely different cultures.

As I reflect, I do not end this year feeling like I survived, more like I thrived!! It has opened my eyes to what I confidently feel God wanted me to see....and I'm more eager then ever to continue that journey. I've wanted to write about this journey but have been hesitant at the same time. So, here it goes....

There are so many options out there on how you can school your children. To give a little history: I grew up attending only four schools ( including college!), all of which were private. My husband attended 13 public schools by the time he graduated high school, then attended college and grad school. Based on our backgrounds, we wanted to find a happy medium. Private school was not an option, even if we could afford it. For me, my parents wanted to provide a safe environment for their kids, which was all fine and good till we had to 'enter the world'. We felt putting our boys in public school, in hopes of engaging in our children and the school life, would be profitable for our children, family and the community.

When we first began this journey, we were in a small town of 60,000 where you bought a house based on what school you wanted your child to attend. Easy enough! Our oldest son's Kindergarten and first grade years were quite lovely. I helped a lot in the classes, helped on PTA, visited at lunch, knew the principal from our church, and was even involved in praying for the school weekly with a group of moms! Sounds quaint? It was....sort of Smallville like! (ha,ha!)

(screeching brake sound)

The Lord then tells us to say goodbye, sell our house, and go back home to New Orleans. Huh?

Well, that is what we did.

When we arrived back in the wonderful city of New Orleans, due to the first year being a lot of transition, I chose to keep the boys home with me and schooled them myself. One was in preschool and the other in 2nd grade. ( I had told myself that I would NEVER homeschool....but I also said I would NEVER move back home....) (sigh) We had a wonderful curriculum that I borrowed from a friend, and we did a lot of field trips around the city (with the goal of educating and getting them to fall in love with their new home). It was a wonderful year that I will cherish forever but then it came time to look into schools for a Kindergartner and 3rd grader.

WOW! When you move to New Orleans (Post Katrina) you find out that you don't just sign up for the school in your area, and we are not just looking at public schools. There are Montessori schools, Language immersion schools, charter schools....there are established schools, brand spankin' new schools, and schools attempting all different philosophies of teaching! There was a book I got my hands on that gave info on all the schools in the city. I could look at it and see the location of the school, how it tested, what kind of diversity it had, and even what percentage got free/reduced lunch. It didn't take long for me to narrow my options. Little did I know that my list of three schools would have to enlarge to 10+ schools to apply to, b/c of the demand for everyone wanting their kid in the better schools and those schools only having so much room. Waiting list, waiting list, waiting list!

I will now end talking about the monster that it was and get to what I really want this to be about!

The kids had completely different teachers. One was an experienced, native New Orleanian, female elementary teacher - the other is a young west coast male Teach for America teacher. The schools, one relies on grants based on extremely high performances which then allows them a consistent group of special teachers that focuses on the arts. The other school relies on non profits or even a church partnership to have some special things. One is so well established and organized, the other required me to be forgiving while its still figuring things out. One doesn't bat an I to ask families to pay $15 for a field trip (and anticipates many parents to show up and help), but the other schools field trips mostly just required you to pay the two bucks for the bus. A non-profit provided the kids with great field trips (but did not welcome parents).

Where was I? I was scared. Not sure how the year would go. I firmly looked at that west coast teacher in the early part of the year and told him that the two things I cared about for my child was that he was academically challenged and environmentally felt safe. In the beginning, there were many days where I was mentally ready to pull him out if I felt that would need to be done. As the year progressed, my oldest would always come home happy except for when he did something wrong with school work! It gave me a peace. Into the second semester, the teacher gave me an opportunity to step into the class and 'pour love on them.' (Cookie decorating and Picture frame craft) I even got to volunteer ONE time which allowed me to rub shoulders with a sweet lady that works at the school, I now look forward to seeing her. Where am I now? Wondering what part I can play next year in helping the school on a bigger scale, not just the classroom, but to help parents get involved. I have a huge appreciation for that west coast guy that demonstrated leadership and compassion on this pour mom:) I also appreciate the other leaders and allowing (even encouraging) Alf and I to speak out on just about anything. I still don't feel confident and comfortable in the culture of the school but am confident and comfortable in it being where we need to be.

Meanwhile, I volunteered at least twice a month at my younger ones school. I did lunch, recess, and choice time when I would go help. I showed up at field trips and holiday parties. I embraced all their was to embrace in a Kindergarten year. It was comfortable. The year went above and beyond what I could have ever expected. And yes, there were times (of course)where I would wish that both boys were experiencing 'this', like the time Trombone Shorty played for morning meeting:) Note: If you don't know who Trombone Shorty is, google him.

Well, that is my story....for now.

Dont Forget the Third Person!

2011-06-04T10:01:00.002-04:00

God is amazing!
He gives me what I need, when I need it.

What he gave me recently is a reminder of the third person. In our christian faith, we need to take advantage of all three! God, Son, and Holy Spirit.

I was recently listening to a sermon on line where he was expressing four key things that he is committed to in this journey called life. He was committed to 1. living 'all in' 2. to follow leadership of the Spirit 3. to finishing the course 4. to doing life in relationship. All this was taken from a passage in Acts/admiring the work of Paul the apostle. (If your interested in listening, go to fellowshiponline.com The sermon is called A Call to Commitment by Tim Lundy)

What moved me the most was the commitment to follow leadership of the Spirit. These following verses encouraged me and empowered me to a deeper love for who I serve and how I live that out.

Ephesians 1: 13-14 "And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession-to the praise of his glory."
We are sealed by the Spirit. I am in His grip and will never let me go!
"a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance" - I have the Holy Spirit to walk with me and guide me, and gives me the best retirement plan EVER!

Galatians 5: 16-18 "So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law."
This passage convicts me to be aware of spiritual warfare and to spend time with Him, to walk in the Spirit. I need to know Him and His character in order to know how to follow him. I read in a book recently, 'Sometimes he invites us to draw close and listen as He reveals Himself...Other times He calls to us to participate in His purposes" (L.Terkeurst) I cant just Do,Do,Do! It includes sitting down to learn and listen to His will.

Ephesians 5:18-20 "Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in you heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
ALWAYS give thanks! What are my thoughts? Where is my heart? Am I looking vertical or horizontal? Am I being filled with the Spirit?

Romans 8: 14-18 "...those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, "Abba, Father." The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children."
We can choose, to be a slave to sin or to be a slave to the Spirit. A slave to the Spirit is eternal and freeing. I can rest in that no matter what, this day can work for good if I choose Him. Him, an intimate God(Father) that claims me as his child.

2011-05-10T10:43:00.002-04:00

This is your certificate for a walk in City Park with me.

Quite the Mother's Day gift, wouldn't you say?

I think my oldest son, Athan, has grasped the idea that time is a gift.

I also think that he is pretty observant for his age. He knows how much I love that Park.

It also shows me his generosity, for they did not actually go anywhere and get me a gift. He couldn't even bring me breakfast in bed because they spent the night at their Aunt and Uncles! He couldn't NOT give me something.

I am so grateful to be a mom to two boys that God specifically chose just for me and Alf.

Im particularly moved at the idea that time is a gift. Time is precious and it does have limits. We ought to treat the time we have with this person or that person as precious and a gift. More then that, are we giving enough time to those we love the most? One step further, are we giving God our time?

Some Things Never Change

2011-04-06T22:43:00.003-04:00

Soooooooo,
my birthday weekend was last weekend. I was actually born on April 1st
a.k.a April Fools Day! Yep, lucky me:)
When I was a little girl, my brother would come up with all sorts of things to fool me with. Take for instance, the time he decided to wake me up the morning of my birthday and tell me there was a limousine in the front of the house waiting for me. Uh-huh.
I've tried to wipe some from my memory.

I am now way into my thirties, and some things never change.
You see the box? That is a Mignon Fagot box. A very fine jeweler in the city of New Orleans. When I unwrapped the box to find that it was a Mignon Fagot box....lets just say that I got a little excited. Turns out the only thing in the box was a key. It was a key that I just simply needed so that I can have access to my brothers house, probably for the times he needs me to go over and let his dog outside or something.
Soooooooo, there you go - some things never change.

City Park + 'Perfect Weather' = Fun, Fun, Fun!!!

2011-03-20T22:01:00.003-04:00

Family time was had at the park Sunday!
Last week we went in the paddle
boat....with our dog, Annie....yes, she jumped in:)
This week we
walked the sculpture garden and the boys enjoyed bike time as well. The sculpture garden is fairly new to the park, near the New Orleans Museum of Fine Art. It is an outdoor oasis with beautiful landscape and some very large sculptures.

I LOVE family time and I LOVE City Park.

By the way, the picture above - Yea, I don't know. I have no clue how it is held up!

Daddy and sons looking at fish

This one (and many others) made me chuckle. It was called Conversation with Moon :)

So, I have that kind of man that sighs when I want a picture with him next to the LOVE statue, but he is also the man that has fun with us making our own art(pics below). Not so much the romantic but he is funny:)
I'll keep him!

The piece above is called Nelson Shadows and the one below is called Ninja's weapon

Whether it be with the family or without, this park is a sanctuary to me. Lets just say, it fills my bucket every time I go! City Park is 1300 acres of fun! Memories are made here by many adults and children. Im thankful that I live so close and can enjoy it anytime.
In the above picture we were standing under a very large Oak with various sizes of wind chimes.
They named it Singing Oak.

-my jewels-

The Leprechaun Trap

2011-03-20T09:28:00.002-04:00

Follow the Pattern to the treasure!

Aiden had to make a Leprechaun Trap for his Kindergarten class. (I know, I am a little behind on posting this) It was a fun activity for him and I to do together. We first googled Leprechaun Traps and saw multiple ideas, chose one and we were off! Great ideas come from other peoples great ideas, right? :)
Aiden came up with the pattern idea.....

and I helped him with the idea of using beads for his rainbow. Its not a New Orleans school project without using Mardi gras beads!

On St Patrick's Day, Aiden and all his class mates showed up to their classroom with green Leprechaun footprints all over the room. The Leprechaun bombarded the room, sprinkled green glitter everywhere and left a note and some gold coins. Aiden shared with me on the way home that day that he thought the Leprechaun was in the art room (the teacher did not let them go in the art room). He then went to bed that night saying, 'I a lot of reallys want to trap him tonight at our house.'

The imagination is a fun and beautiful thing!

I Want To Be Brave

2011-03-11T09:21:00.003-05:00

One Thousand Gifts - a dare to live fully right where you are

"I know there is poor and hideous suffering....I only deepen the wound of the world when I neglect to give thanks for early light dappled through leaves and the heavy perfume of wild roses in early July and the song of crickets on humid nights....and all the good things that a good God gives.

Why would the world need more anger, more outrage? How does it save the world to reject unabashed joy when it is joy that saves us? Rejecting joy to stand in solidarity with the suffering doesn't rescue the suffering. The converse does.

The brave who focus on all things good and all things beautiful and all things true, even in the small, who give thanks for it and discover joy even in the here and now, they are the change agents who bring fullest Light to all the world. When we lay the soil of our hard lives open to the rain of grace and let joy penetrate our cracked and dry places, let joy soak into our broken skin and deep crevices,

LIFE grows.

How can this not be the best thing for the world? For us? The clouds open when we mouth thanks."

I want to be brave.

I begun this book and only in the third chapter I am being challenged. What are my thoughts through out the day? Are those thoughts bringing joy into my life or are they robbing me of joy? In honesty.... its been the latter.

I want to be brave. I want to see good in ALL things. I want to be obedient to the creator and sustainer of this world and my life, but....I fear what He has for me, not a reverent fear, but a scared fear. Why is it so hard to focus on what he has preserved me from? Why am I having a hard time finding good in things that He has allowed in the past?

I need Him. I need my God. I need to know Him. I want to feel more of those moments of joy. Not just when a newborn baby is born, or when a couple gets married, or when someone graduates. I want to feel joy in the little things too. I want to, with my mouth, thank God for the feel of warm clothes when they come out of the dryer and for the opportunities given when driving my child to and from school and for smells of fresh bread or a pot of spaghetti sauce.

May I feel the joy that only God can give....that he wants me to receive.....daily!

5 Adjectives About My Love

2011-02-14T10:52:00.003-05:00

I recently had to come up with 5 adjectives that I feel pertain to my husband at an assessment. I contemplated on what drew me to him fifteen plus years ago and what I love and respect about him in the present. This is what I came up with:

DETERMINED/DRIVEN - my man does not believe in giving up. He has been driven since childhood. He breaks down walls, literally and figuratively!

HUMOROUS/WITTY - my man has the ability to take a serious moment and turn intense faces into smiles and laughter. He makes a family trip to the zoo way more fun for the boys then I could ever do. He makes people watching very entertaining!

GENTLE - my man treats people all around him in a very gentle way. He recognizes the bigger picture and his incapability to "control" people or events. I am especially grateful that he is gentle with me, whether it be romantically or in a fight!

GOOD - ethically, morally.... my man desires good. He works hard at doing good with our finances (even things behind 'closed doors'), he desires to have and model good work ethic, he desires to serve God well, and he seeks ways to pour good into others lives.

STRONG - externally and internally.... my man renovated our house in the heat of August, he has fought the odds of life, he cares about what people think but does not let that drive him, and his strength comes out in the way he leads his family.

He is a gift from God! I love you honey -

Copy / Paste

2011-01-12T12:15:00.002-05:00

I cannot take credit for this but it was so good that I had to copy and paste it! This is an email I got from some dear missionary friends. This email has beauty and 'meat' to it regarding the new year . . . unlike my latest post that had sheer survival of life written all over it! May we all be blessed by Gods word and the wisdom that pours from these mature believers in our Lord.

Forgetting....Reaching

Forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead,

I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God.

Philippians 3:13-14

A fresh page of a New Year awaits our story. Day upon day we etch our personal history on the pages of time. The choices we make are our ink and pen. With inevitable twists and turns the plot unfolds and moves towards its climax. What will be the enduring theme of our life after the last page is turned and the book is closed?
None of us escape the crosscurrents of humanity's earthly drama - love, hurt, foolish decisions, providential opportunities, dreams and regrets. We each have our share. Yet, those who are Christ-followers possess a glorious horizon, a magnificent obsession. Paul called it a "prize," an "upward call."
Pressing on and reaching forward are not possible without first letting go of what lies behind. Unshackling the ball and chain of past failures and painful wounds is not easy. But it is essential.

The goal ahead of us is too eternally significant, the stakes are too high to wallow in the mire of the past which we cannot change, or to allow haunting memories and unresolved conflicts to suck the marrow out of our future. The goal is nothing less than growing into the fullness of the likeness of Christ.

Hosea the prophet foreshadows the Apostle Paul's words when he wrote

"So let us know, let us press on to know the Lord." Hosea 6:3

So Far So Good

2011-01-12T11:31:00.002-05:00

Reflected on God's blessing during 2010 by looking back at some pictures of the year, now we are geared up to take steps forward to whatever 2011 has in store for us.

1st things 1st, is this momma's motto right now. There is a lot to juggle these days, and in order to do it well, I must stay focused and put 1st things 1st!

Ridded ourselves of the 'garage sale pile' in the garage by taking it to the Goodwill. The garage sale thing never happened . . . and that is ok!

Made play dough with Aiden for his class. After bringing it to his class, he came home to tell me that the play dough was "famous" WoW!!

Finishing up basketball with Athan. Two games left and so far undefeated . . . NOT because of Athan's rookie skills (ha,ha). He has learned a lot and has had loads of fun, though!

Just finished a CD series on Rekindling your Marriage by Dennis Rainey and his wife, Barbara. I highly recommend it and now ready for a little getaway :) hee, hee!

Enjoying the new member of our family, Annie. She is all about pleasing us and has a large amount of energy to burn on a regular basis. Fortunately, the energy is burned by walks with me - I've certainly needed a reason to get out and walk!

Love hearing Alf come home to share wonderful things happening in peoples lives around the Gentilly area . . . and not just on Sunday mornings. hmmm :)

Having quality time with family and friends.

And with all that said, 2011 is so far so good!

Thats what little boys are made of.

2010-12-20T16:03:00.002-05:00

Rolling down levee hills,
spitting on ant piles,
playing 'tag' with the dog,
peeing on trees, and
having their mom be QB over and
over and
over again....
that's what MY little boys are made of. :)

KaBoom Rocks!

2010-12-20T15:36:00.005-05:00

Benches, picnic tables, walking path, and an awesome KaBoom playground.
What an awesome experience.
Im blown away by the KaBoom organization and
Im humbled by people near and far that came to help this all come together.
Im grateful for those that kept the kids entertained from 8am till 3pm and
Im impressed at the restaurants that donated food.
Im delighted to have had an opportunity to engage with neighbors this way.
It was a very cold day but that not only didn't stop us, we kept smiles on our faces through it all.
Today, we have professionals laying the padding on the slab.
A great Christmas present for Gentilly, dont you think? :)

(Lastly, shouting out to the neighbors that volunteered to be captain of a team or
those neighbors that gave of their time to be apart of weekly conference calls for the last month and a half....thank you, thank you, thank you!)

- A Really Good Find -

2010-11-23T19:57:00.001-05:00

From Mandeville, you get on a bike trail for a little over 4 miles and run into a phenomenal playground. Did you catch that adjective? Seriously, it was impressive.
After you are done on the playground....

...you ride further down the trail, about another 4 miles, and run into a quaint town with a wonderful restaurant/brewery. The restaurant has large portions and since I don't care for beer,
we settled for root beer:)

Across the street from the restaurant is a very cool fountain that the boys played in. Do I even need to mention that they had a blast?

It was good family time. We sang, 'the ants go marching' to the ant piles. We talked about Brutas (another post for another day:) We watched dad relive his childhood by popping wheelies. We got to watch a giant dead tree get cut down. A good time! Even our bodies thanked us, but our butts had something else to say about it.
(I guess no family event can be absolutely perfect!)

Thanks to Southern Living for posting an article about the trail and for all its suggestions.

Annie!

2010-11-22T08:20:00.003-05:00

Canoeing on Bayou St. John

2010-11-22T07:52:00.002-05:00

Once upon a time there were two brother, Iberville and Bienville.......this was an educational AND fun field trip for Athan and his class. The guides taught them some history on how New Orleans was founded, why we call it the Crescent City (the crescent of the river:), and they even had a treasure hunt where they found an "old" map that took them to some "treasure"!!!

Old ruins of the Spanish Fort

When I heard that 25 kids in Athan's class would be canoeing down Bayou St John, I was a bit apprehensive. In all honesty, I did not know where Bayou St John was! All it took was a little googling to find out that it was in our "backyard" Bayou St John runs along City Park into Lake Ponchatrain. (We drive next to it every day taking Athan to school) So, I was relieved that my child was not going to get swallowed up by any alligators!

They had a great time and made some great memories.

I Heart Kindergarten

2010-11-18T12:03:00.002-05:00

There is something so special to me about this year. It is a year where our babies become kids, and it is a year where they learn SO much in such a fun way! It is a book end to the many school years to come.

Alf and I got to go share in a Thanksgiving Feast with Aiden and his class yesterday. You can see in the pictures that they made center pieces, place mats, name tags, labels for the food, menus.....Things started off by the kids singing some cute songs and then we dined with two other kids and their parents. The company was enjoyable and the food was yummy!

I chose to bring something simple (veggie plate and corn). My favorite dish that was there was a "pizza" that was made completely from raw foods, even the crust! I am hearing more and more about this wonderful (but tasking) way of eating. Dont know if it is just new to me or it is new all around?

Anyway, look how cute!! The vest where they implemented pattern, shape and color. The head piece had feathers in the back and each one was a different color that symbolized something (red for kindness) and they had to earn their feathers. A bracelet that told the story of the pilgrims and indians! Yes, I did get him telling the story on video:) And of course the necklace that said - He who loves his Brother.
When we were coming home from school, he was trying to figure out what birds all the feathers came from. I had to explain to him that not ALL feathers these days come off a bird created by the hands of God:)
(The picture below is Aiden describing to daddy about the feathers)

Where is waldo??
Aiden is in the back standing up next to the tee pee!
His teacher is the lady to the left, with her assistant next to her. The lady on the right is a student teacher from Tulane that is with us for the semester. (His teacher reminds me of my Kindergarten teacher:)
I have had a wonderful time getting to volunteer in the class and going on field trips. It is an adorable group of kids! There was a kid that told me he wanted to be a paleontologist, one of the boys wants to be a football player (by the looks of his hands, he just might), a little girl in the class reminds me of punky brewster, and I have a serious crush on the red head - oh my goodness!

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

45 Life Lessons

2010-11-07T22:13:00.002-05:00

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.

3. Life is too short to waste your time hating anyone.

4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.

5. Pay off your credit cards every month.

6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

7. Cry with someone. It is more healing then crying alone.

8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.

9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.

10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.

11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.

12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.

13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.

15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.

16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.

17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.

18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.

19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.

20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.

21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.

22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.

23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.

24. The most important sex organ is your brain.

25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.

26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In five years, will this matter?'

27. Always choose life.

28. Forgive everyone everything.

29. What other people think of you is none of your business.

30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.

31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

33. Believe in miracles.

34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.

35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.

36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.

37. Your children get only one childhood.

38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.

39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.

40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.

41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

42. The best is yet to come....

43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up, and show up.

44. Yeild.

45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.

I got this in an email from a neighbor. Supposedly, a 90 year old wrote this. To celebrate growing older, 45 lessons life taught her. Hope you enjoyed it!

Go Saints!

2010-09-09T07:57:00.002-04:00

Tonights the night, the ni-i-ight, o0O! We're going to make it right tonight... (Who sang that? Phil Collins?) Well, tonight is the night in New Orleans, Louisiana and hopefully we will make it right by winning our first season game. The festivities begin with a small parade strolling through downtown at 5 - with the players on the floats, then the game starts at 7. Lest we not forget the concert that will be taking place in the downtown square tonight as well - Craziness!!

These pictures were taken at the third preseason game in which we were very fortunate to go to recently. Tonight, I am happy to say that we will be watching the game in the comfort of our own home:) Athan actually got a hold of my camera and took a lot of fun pictures. I have spared you from the plethora of Drew Brees Pictures!

I talk my sweet Aiden into going to such events as a family by bribing him with cotton candy, $4 cotton candy, that is! It is truly what he lives for when he is at such events. Wonder if he will ever love the sport, or be like me, and just deeply love the PEOPLE that love the sport. Well, Im sort of leaving something out....I love the music at the games - hee,hee!

So, if I were to be a Debbie Downer in this post, I would the enormous amount of traffic that will take place, the numerous streets that will be closed, the schools that are getting out at 2 so the buses can avoid the madness and get kids home safe.....but I am not going to mention such things. Oh wait, I just did! So sorry, I just cant leave that stuff out.
Ok everyone, now go get your black and gold on (even if the heat index will be 105 today) and wear it proud! And remember, it is not Who Dat any more - it is Two Dat baby!

Athan gets Baptized...finally!!!

2010-09-06T09:45:00.002-04:00

When looking at these pictures, you are just going to have to imagine your looking at in rewind mode! Anyway, we are so happy for Athan. He has wanted to do this for the last year. I didn't mean to put it off for so long, but I'm glad it worked out the way it did. It was a beautiful night, and a time for our church plant to worship through baptism for the first time. A sweet time!

As a family earlier that day, we talked about baptism and what its significance is. Alf used the passage, Romans 6: 1-14 where it talks about being buried with Christ through baptism (the dunking part:) then being raised up with Christ (coming up from the water.) It is a beautiful way to proclaim that we have received the gift, the gift of God's eternal grace. I am filled with joy that Athan is choosing to take the step of faith and proclaiming it to others. He chose to tell everyone at the baptism that he wants to follow Jesus and recited his favorite verse, Proverbs 3:5 and 6. You go, boy!!!

Seafood Lasagna

2010-09-02T20:15:00.002-04:00

Saute 1 bell pepper, 1 onion, 3 stalks of celery, and some green onions in a stick of butter for about 20 min.

Add crawfish tails, shrimp, and crab meat (imitation crab meat is fine.)

Also, add cream of mushroom soup

Now you have you MIX.

Take a 9 by 13 pan and begin by putting the lasagna noodles down, then the MIX, then mozzarella sliced cheese, then noodles again, MIX again, and top with grated cheddar cheese.

Bake at 350 degrees for about 30 min.

A very easy recipe (that you can even make ahead of time) with fairly pricey ingredients. So you might want to save this for a special occasion.

EnJOY!!!

Family Reunion

2010-08-28T08:38:00.002-04:00

Alf is the oldest of four!

Things began to get exciting when Alf's brother, Ronnie, called us a couple years ago to tell us that he was going to turn himself in, in hopes of eventually having family again and living a somewhat normal life. We had not heard from Ronnie in years (maybe five or more.) The last time we had seen him was at his five yr old daughters funeral. Alf would occasionally look in the obituaries b/c no one we knew had heard from him.

Having contact with him now, Alf continued conversation with him. During his time in jail Ronnie would call to keep us posted on court stuff, share with us things he was learning, and would sometimes have a few needs. We did what we could to let him know we love him and would try to encourage him. His time was shortened so now two years later he is a free man. He has his girlfriend, a three and a half yr old daughter they share, and his girlfriends eight yr old daughter - neither of them allow him much personal space:)
We would hear regularly from other family members how Alf's sister and half brother (Theresa and Jerry)were doing. We never looked in obituaries for them:) We knew they were around taking care of each other, they simply did not have much to do with family.....for a looooong time (maybe seven years.) The last time I saw her was at their grandmothers funeral.
For Alf and I, moving back to New Orleans has not been to just plant a church. It has been to reconnect with his siblings again. B/c of facebook, Jerry and Theresa found Alf and we immediately jumped on the opportunity to see them since we now live near them.
Tomorrow will be a week that Ronnie has been out of jail. So one evening this past week, we had the privilege of having him (and girlfriend and kids) and Theresa over for dinner. (Jerry chose not to make it in fear of being late to work.) It was a good time. We sat around talking about how other family members were doing and listened to Ronnie and Theresa reminisce about some of the past (like when they were 13 and 15, Ronnie stepped in to help Theresa from getting beat up by a group of girls.)
The kids had a blast on the slip-n-slide outside, playing basketball, eating sugar cookies, etc.
I hope that this is the beginning of many more evenings with them!
It has been interesting to hear all of their perspectives of childhood. They all grew up together in one house but have very different views of how life was. A lot of it has to do with the age differences, some of it has to do with choices made. Ronnie, his girlfriend, and I had a brief time of talking about how Alf's life panned out and why he is not in many of the memories that Ronnie and Theresa share.
Why God chose to pull Alf away from it when He did, we do not know. We live in HOPE and FAITH that God, as he has been doing, will continue to show His immeasurable love and do more then we can ask or imagine in this life. May I trust Him in every step. I love Alf AND the family that came with him:)

Look! Look! Look!

2010-08-12T19:33:00.001-04:00

It came, we saw, and it flew away. It was beautiful.

Receiving End

2010-08-07T22:59:00.004-04:00

I have been on the receiving end this year, in many ways. These particular pictures are of the boys enjoying a camp that took place at a park down the street from us. The group that did the camp was from Alabama. They came here to do mission work. Little did they know that they would minister to someone in ministry. They were such nice people and glad to do it. The boys had a fantastic time and made friends with a little boy that lives near by!

As I was benefiting this day from mission work, my husband was out facilitating another mission team in town. During the summer, fall breaks, and spring breaks you start to notice "church buses"on the streets or large groups in restaurants around the city.
It is an amazing change that has taken place in this city, post Katrina.

Caterpillars and Zinnias

2010-07-30T21:01:00.002-04:00

When watering the bushes last night I found some pets for the kids! Having done a little homework, I just need to keep them fed and clean their poop and with time we shall see butterflies (fingers and toes crossed).
Athan named his caterpillar - Athan. Guess what Aiden named his caterpillar? Yep.

The simple pleasures of our backyard this summer. I decided to plant zinnia seeds for the first time and was successful! (dont ask me about the vegetables I tried to plant:) Anyway, here is a bouquet I picked for my sister-n-law....

Mother's Day

2010-05-09T23:37:00.001-04:00

I love being a MOM to these two boys!

book, book, books

2010-05-01T17:43:00.003-04:00

We are wrapping up our school year (three weeks left!!!) And before I pack away our books I thought I would record for myself some of the wonderful books we read this year. Feel free to look through the list and one may inspire you to sit down and read to your child.

Missionary Stories with the Millers by Mildred A. Martin. What a wonderful book! I would recommend this book to any family. It has a bunch of really short stories of different missionaries from all over the world that encounter very adventurous and challenging obstacles to overcome. God is in all of it! (each of the stories is based on an actual happening from the lives of real people.)

Mr. Popper's Penguins by Richard and Florence Atwater. This book at times really got the boys giggling. A very unrealistic event that is fun to imagine.

Mrs. Piggle Wiggle by Betty MacDonald. A lady that lives in an upside down house that the children are all attracted to. Mothers in the neighborhood seek Mrs. Piggle Wiggle's advice on ailments such as there child hates taking baths, or eats way to slow. Mrs Piggle Wiggle cures them all!

A Child's History of the World by Virgil M. Hillyer. A Fantastic book to read with your child! It is such an easy read. It is a lot to read (600 pgs) but it is a survey of the world's history where you can refer to it and fit it into further historical studies. It really brings those stories told in sunday school more of a reality (I loved that the most)

Charlotte's Web by E.B.White. Must I say it? This one is one of the first we read and it captivated them. Almost made us cry...almost:)

Follow My Leader by Garfield. This was a great book to educate the boys on what it is like to be blind. A great story of a boy becoming blind as a child, getting a blind dog, and thriving in the world despite his obstacles.

Greek Myths / Usborne. I was dreading this book at first, even joked with Alf about taking care of this one. It proved me wrong. We even acted out some of these stories and had a blast doing them. I think our favorite was the Myth of Icarus and Daedalus. It allowed for wonderful imagination.

Understood Betsy by Dorothy Canfield Fisher. It took some time to get into this one but so glad I trudged on. I may have learned more from this book then the boys did:) How to help your kid think for themselves, to work hard, and the value of responsibility.

The Wheel on the School by Meindert DeJong. Making dreams come true.

Lastly, many of the science and history books came form Usborne. Highly enjoyed the beautiful pictures and the amount of information that was covered.

Almost forgot! Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons. I had the privilege of helping my five year old learn how to read this year. There are not many things in life that top that! What a joy it was. If I can do it, you can too!

LOL!

2010-04-25T16:28:00.001-04:00

Not that you can go on and on about my kids, but that I know how as parents that we can go on and on about our children.

My Jewels

2010-04-24T08:25:00.002-04:00

"One day a very rich Roman woman was visiting Cornelia and showing off all her rings and necklaces and other ornaments, of which she had, she asked to see Cornelia's jewels. Cornelia called to her two boys, who were playing outside, and when they came in to their mother she put her arms around them and said: "These are my jewels." But...."
A Child's History of the World by Hillyer

Who is this Cornelia? She was the daughter of Scipio. Who is Scipio? Scipio played a huge part in defending Rome which in part made Rome 'the new champion of the world.' This all took place around 100 B.C.

First of all, isn't history great?! Secondly, do you wake up in the mornings and think that your children are the finest jewels you own?

I am so thankful for my boys. They teach me so much about life and about myself. Over time my love for them has grown stronger and deeper. (Even having them home with me this year 24/7:) When they were babies we had dedications for them. My kids are a gift from God and dedicating them is a way of mentally giving them back to God, expressing to God that I will raise them for His glory and trusting God in the plans He has for them. Recently, dealing with some life stuff, not only was I struggling to trust God in the circumstance but it dawned on me that the root of it was that I was not trusting Him with my children's lives. When I realized this, it was as if some fog had cleared.

What material jewels teach you patience? self-control? or how to love well (not just mushy love)? to completely rely on the One that is ultimately in control. We are in a place of trying to connect with others around us. My oldest is holding me accountable to this (not even knowing it.) He has a list of neighbors that he wants to have over for dinner (mostly people without children) and it is to the point that he annoys me about it. But I am thankful b/c he motivates me. It is neat to see how God is using them.

Now, the real point to the story of Cornelia's sons was that Rome had gotten to a place where the poor were getting poorer and the rich were getting richer. Her 'jewels' saw the misery of the poor and in trying to do something about it, the rich got rid of them. Thankfully we don't live in Roman times anymore!

I could go off on how I love my 'jewels' (and so could you:) but I will close for now. Be thankful today for the JOY that they bring to life! (don't focus on the exhaustion - ha, ha!)

Intimacy vs. Reverence

2010-04-13T09:06:00.002-04:00

What is on my mind this morning is a lesson our cute little church plant discussed a couple weeks ago. Are we intimate with God? Do we give Him the reverence He deserves? Do we have a healthy balance of the two?
Intimacy is something much easier for me to grasp then reverence...these days...most days. Intimately, I talk to God about anything. I love that I have the freedom to go to Him and praise Him, thank Him, but even wrestle things out with Him. He is my Father. His love is pure, unchanging, and eternal. I go to Him confidently knowing He is always there.
There are quite a few things that just have not gone the way I would have liked in the last few months, so I have been wrestling a bit with God. A devotion I read this morning has opened my eyes to my lack of reverence...

You trust me when things go well, when you see Me working on your behalf. This type of trust flows readily within you, requiring no exertion of your will. When things go wrong, your trust flow slows down and solidifies. You are forced to choose between trusting me intentionally or rebelling: resenting My ways with you.

Friends, that word resenting really stood out to me this morning. I have truly been resenting God. It hurts me deeply that I would be so...humanly frail. (sigh) God deserves my reverence. God is holy. He is right. He is good. He is powerful and mighty. I go to him and proclaim who God is but sometimes deep down I just don't believe it. Sometimes I feel like He is screwing things up. Has anyone else felt this way?! This morning, I go to Him with pain but also joy. Pain, b/c I realize how frail I can be and I don't give Him the reverence that He deserves. Joy, b/c he is gentle and gracious to me in spite of my flaws. May I, with Gods graciousness and power, practice a healthier balance of intimacy and reverence.

Psalm 34
"I will extol the Lord at ALL times; his praise will ALWAYS be on my lips ... I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears ... The angel of the Lord ENCAMPS around those who fear Him ... Taste and see that the Lord is GOOD ... those who seek the Lord lack no good thing ... The Lord redeems his servants; no one will be condemned who takes refuge in Him."

The simple things of life...

2010-04-03T16:27:00.004-04:00

Eli, the farmer

Pumping water down a half pipe to make a rubber ducky go is hours of entertainment!

Eli eating one before he goes for another one :)

Strawberry Pickin'

The boys both really got into it and could not wait to eat them.

(these pics are all backwards!)
Ms Heather told a story of how you grow strawberries. She has Aiden, Zach, and Sam's attention. Athan and Eli prefer to look at each other.

Mrs. Melissa (who came up with the idea to pick strawberries), Crystal and all the boys.

Dont forget to brush your teeth!

2010-04-03T16:00:00.002-04:00

Well, this is what the toothbrush holder in your children's bathroom looks like when you live in New Orleans :)
Jolly Green Giant does not live with us. We did catch one of those toothbrushes (not the blue one or the tiny yellow one-to clear up any confusion) off a float on Mardi Gras day. It has been awhile since Mardi Gras, but it has also been awhile since I posted anything - Oh, well!!

Aiden prefers Mardi Gras in small increments of time, where as Athan is all about the loot (junk)! I personally just got annoyed with the traffic getting to and from Wal-mart. Having gone to a few parades, I was thankful for good weather and good times with friends and family.

I must conclude by saying, don't forget to brush your teeth! Do it and do it well. Brush your tongue, too. And while your at it - FLOSS. That's right, you read that correctly:)

Pride in our City

2010-01-29T10:23:00.002-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ugV6gcXGPwk

The city is experiencing some strange and beautiful days...

Your either for us or against us, not lukewarm...

The Saints is a reflection of the rise in this city...

The Saints want to win FOR the city...

We have a defiant beating heart...

It has been a wonderful experience for my family to return to this city at such a time.

There was a kid's Disney movie made about our city. The Saints are going to the Superbowl! We are apart of the rebuilding, whether it be renovating a home or apart of planting new trees in the city.

God is moving in my heart and my families heart to love this city with passion. God is teaching me how to love people with kindness, humility, and patience. (Ephesians) May it be played out in day to day life.

Princess and the Frog. We took the kids to see the movie on Christmas day. We all enjoyed it! It did such a great job of capturing the city. Yes, there was the voodoo guy. There is always a bad guy in Disney movies. It has spurred me to intentionally talk to the boys about the sin that is so prevalent in this city. To talk to them about wrong and right, and about how people choose to turn away from God (parable of the sower) With Gods grace, may my children turn their whole hearts to HIM!

Who Dat say their going to beat them Saints! I heard someone say that last sundays game seems more important then the actual superbowl b/c it is getting there that is awesome. Not being much of a sports fan, I enjoyed watching those that were in my living room watching the game more then I did actually watching the game. A dear friend that was with us that night shed tears when we won. As we laughed at her expense, I did think to myself - I will never be able to grasp what these people experienced. She had lost almost everything.

Rebuilding. I love that we renovated a home in this city. It excites the other home owners around me and it is simply what God had planned. I also love having taken part in planting trees for the city, www.hikeforkatreena.com. It was something the whole family took part in. I love that my husband takes part in giving mission teams projects to do on families houses in the city. There is so much that has been done and still so much to do. May God give others a soft spot for this city and continue to return to change lives and be changed.

(Let me just say, especially b/c of what we are watching take place in Haiti, that Katerina is not the worst thing that has happened in this world. It is the worst thing that has happened to this city, though. And this is where we feel called. I am simply rejoicing in Gods plan and how he is weaving things together. For the city and my family.)

Strange and Beautiful days...

2010-01-18T10:30:00.002-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year! Wow, its been awhile!

We are not renovating a gutted home anymore, not caring for my dad anymore (triple bypass), no plans to travel for awhile (was gone two weeks in late nov/early dec), and no holiday hustle and bustle anymore. Sooo, life has calm down quite a bit!

HOPE is sort of my word for this year. There is so much that I have HOPE in these days. Ultimately God is in control of all things so in my state of HOPE when I go to God I enjoy just expressing my gratitude for His sovereignty. I am making a conscious effort to proclaim His name for what it is more then crying out to Him with requests. It is not that I am NOT making requests, it is just that I am embracing the fact that he has it all planned out ... perfectly! I know that my trust in Him is being tested, and I want to please Him.
Recently, I was in a church service that was talking about the book of John. The Pastor for some time shared passages from the Old Testament that paralleled what is written in the New Testament. God told us in the Old Testament what would happen in the New Testament!! Well, he does'nt TELL me what will happen in my future necessarily but we can rest in the fact the He knows. Scripture never gets old! You can hear something over and over and then there will be a time when it hits you in a special way.
I have hope in what He is doing in this city, and in the church we will be launching. I have hope in what God is doing in our lives as well as the lives around us that will be apart of our ministry. I have hope in a brother-n-law that will be getting out of jail in November, that he will truly make life changes and live for God. I have hope for a feeling of community around me. I have hope in my kids getting in a good school....

So I may not be smarter then a 5th grader, but I can say that I am as smart as a 2nd grader :) Homeschool has been and is quite a ride. Having experienced both public school and homeschool, I can say that they are both great - I cant believe I just said that! There are certainly pros and cons for both right down the middle. Having gone into this year homeschooling, very confident that it was part of God's plan, there have certainly been days where I look at God and say, 'why?' or 'was this really your plan?' What has kept me going in a positive manner is just saying, 'it is what you make it.' I do not want to look back at this year as a hard year. I want it to be a joyful time, a time to bond with my kids and make fun memories. It has also been a time of really learning to discipline myself with my time and energy. Having said all that, I do feel long term that I need to get my kids in a school in the city (elaborating on that can be for another blog:) The cities school system, pro-katrina, is now rather complicated so we will see how it all works out. It has been harder for me to trust God with my childrens education, working progress:)

Intentional - that is what my life NEEDS to be this year. I want God to pave that though and I need to fight the need to control every detail of the intentions. Being intentional for some is a bigger deal then to others. For me, being intentional takes courage and patience. Courage, because I am being intentional with people I dont know very well. Patient, because I am being intentional with people I dont know very well. LOL! If I want that feel of community around me, I have to be intentional. If I want existing relationships to deepen, I have to be intentional. I'll continue to work on my trust in God that He will pave the way.

Well, this blog covers a major part of my journey. Thanks for reading and would love any feedback. Now off to a field trip with the kids!

future blogs - pride in our city. childs heart. Audience of One.

You Gotta Have It

2009-11-10T07:07:00.001-05:00

You gotta have this recipe. It's yummy, it's healthy, and it's easy to make. My relationship with this dish all began when I went over to a friends for lunch. This friend is quite the culinary diva - and I miss her so:) It was actually leftovers, I ate it cold, and it was pasta. Are you thinking what I think you are thinking? Leftover pasta? Cold?! Just trust me my friends, its a good one...trust me!!! It might become a staple in your house as it is now and mine. Eat it hot or cold, eat it with or without chicken, just eat it!

Asian Chicken Noodles (If you have a better name, I am up for suggestions)

1 lb. wheat pasta
1/4 cup peanut butter
2 T honey
1/4 cup warm water
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 garlic clove (chopped)
Juice of one lime
1 t hot sauce (optional)
3 T peanut oil
shredded carrots (3 carrots?)
4 scallions (thinly sliced)
2 T parsley or cilantro
2 cups shredded chicken
1/4 cup chopped peanuts
1 cup fresh spinach (chopped)

-cook noodles then run cold water over them
-microwave peanut butter in 10 second intervals
-add honey and warm water
-whisk in next four ingredients
-whisk oil slowly
-add veggies, peanuts, and sauce to noodles
-top with chicken (I usually broil or grill the chicken)

Lastly, don't skimp on ingredients!

Swimming in September

2009-09-25T22:49:00.005-04:00

It is fall and we are still swimming!
So we are not feeling cool seventy degree weather but...

I dont get it!

2009-09-12T09:17:00.003-04:00

I really dont get it.

I dont understand God fully when we have hard times and I dont even understand Him in some of the good times. What do I mean? This journey of planting a church involves a yucky part called fundraising. (HARD) You know, asking people for their money. And do you know what? We have people in our lives that our giving us their money! (GOOD) They believe in us...they believe in God...they believe in investing for eternity...the believe in helping the city of New Orleans. God amazes me! Peoples generosity and faith amazes me!

It is a very humbling journey.

Now listen up, hear me out - I know there are many out there praying for us and that believe in us that cant give a dollar, and I am just as humbled by that. I am thankful for all those aboard!
This particular post is just simply about the fact that I dont get God sometimes...His ways. He has called us...me...what is he going to do through ME? I want to give Him my all, but I did not know it would be in this way. He is caring for us...me...we WILL feed our children and give them b'day presents :) lol
I dont know what I expected when I jumped on this fundraising wagon. I was ready for anything. It is like getting on a roller coaster ride for the first time and holding on tight not really sure what is ahead. You wonder how much you and your family will have to "sacrifice."
He is a gentle God. God tells us that He wont give us more then we can handle. I truly believe that. He is showing me His gentleness whether it be through people, or His word, or just through time.

We just had a couple come down for a week (they drove twelve hours) to spend time encouraging us through words and action. They helped us finish painting the inside of the house, installed all of the kitchen cabinets, trimmed out all the windows...It was awesome! The man owns a business renovating and remodeling, so I am not only grateful for the job getting done but getting done well. They also just seemed to say the words that we needed to hear. What is even more amazing - these were not super close friends, I mean we knew them and I had been to their house for church stuff but never had sat down with them and had any in depth conversation. Why were they coming? a question I would ask myself. Well, they love God, they love us, and see the need in the city of New Orleans. They understand what it means to invest time and money for eternity. I sure hope they got out of the visit as much as we did.

Never did I think I would be on such the receiving side of life. Seeing the way God is blessing us in this journey I have complete faith that He will bless the church.

Psalm 63:3 "Because your loving kindness is better then life, my lips will praise you."

Acclimating and ReAcclimating

2009-08-09T23:05:00.002-04:00

Moving to your hometown after being away for about fifteen years can make for quite an adventure ...especially if it is the city of New Orleans ...especially if you decide to give new life to a completely gutted home in an area that was hard hit by Katrina (the hurricane that hit in 2005) ...especially if you are coming from a small town you HAD acclimated to for six years.
It has been an adventure, an adventure wrapped in God's faithfulness, goodness, and love. It is an adventure that I am glad to be apart of ...on most days (hee,hee)

>It is starting to be second nature to drive around town and see bars everywhere. When I first got here it was disturbing to me, particularly as a mom, all the many signs that have to do with clubs or bars. >It is nothing to drive somewhere now and it take at least thirty minutes. Where we came from, twenty minutes is all the way across town!! >And the heat, oh my, the heat. What can I say other then, 'it is daggon hot!' My hair is usually in an 'up do'

There are things that I am REacclimating to b/c somethings in New Orleans do not change and it is just a matter of getting used to those things again. But there is also an element of acclimating. Yes, even though I grew up here.
I have never lived here as an adult, I have a new found appreciation for the city and for its history. There is history in the communities, in the buildings,etc. I am getting to know it on a deeper level or from a broader scope, if you will.
I never used to view it through anything but a consumers eyes, there is a need that can sometimes be overwhelming. This city is bringing me to my knees. I am eager to find out about all the ministries around the area that are bringing hope and salvation to the people.
As I said earlier, I am a parent now in New Orleans and that takes acclimating. This is where I don't even know where to begin, what to even say ... My greatest desire for my kids is to #1 love God with all their heart and #2 have a strong bond as a family (particularly brothers) As we venture to raise a family here, I can only give it to God. He is the author and perfecter of our faith and He loves my children more then I love them.

Speaking of my kids, they have been awesome! How resilient (most) children are to change. They have handled the move so well. It sure helps to have Internet and endless minutes on our cell phones:) It is fun to show them around, to have them apart of all that we are doing, and to introduce them to things like beignets - mmmmmmmm!
We went this morning to a church on Magazine Street that is just getting on their feet and is meeting in the upstairs above a gym. We didn't park in a parking lot, we just parked on the side of a street. We also had to walk about a block to take the kids to 'kids church.' (a kids church of only 10 kids total) And as we are getting out of the van my oldest son (7 yr old) says, 'this is a weird church to go to' then my husband responds, 'that is what is so cool about New Orleans, things are just different here.' Weird/Different, it was fun to see them talk regarding just having a perspective on something different as being fun or cool.

The last thing I want to mention (I know this is lengthy and really wonder who will actually read it) is a devotion I read the other day that seems fitting - Colossians 1:11 May you be strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for all endurance and patience, with joy. Next to the verse it says, we learn to be victorious only by surrendering our lives completely to the Spirit of God, not by gritting our teeth and trying harder.

The Most Creative Job in the World

2009-07-27T11:39:00.002-04:00

It involves
taste,
fashion,
decorating,
recreation,
education,
transportation,
psychology,
romance,
cuisine,
designing,
literature,
medicine,
handicraft,
art,
horticulture,
economics,
government,
community relations,
pediatrics,
geriatrics,
entertainment,
maintenance,
purchasing,
direct mail,
law,
accounting,
religion,
energy
and management.
Anyone who can
handle all those
has to be somebody
special.
She is a mom.
(wall street journal...
from a long time ago...
at a time where a woman staying at home was praised)

Ready, Set, GO!!!

2009-07-03T21:56:00.002-04:00

Well, I am ready. I started feeling this way when a group of friends gave us a going away party last friday. All the month of June people have been asking me if I was packing or getting ready. All the month of June I have been making the most of my time to enjoy our last days here and to spend time with lots of friends. Just a week ago did I think to myself - it is time.
We have now two more days and then we drive down. I would ask for your prayers for safety on the road (so my tears wont blur my vision - ha ha!) and that the boys will do fine. I have done all I can to prepare them and I think they are very aware of what is going to happen, they just have no clue the feelings that may (probably) occur once all is said and done.
I am excited! We have felt God's love thru the people in our lives. They are on board with us, they believe in us, they inquire, they love us with good food and gifts...etc. It is an honor to be on this journey.
I am also exhausted...physically, emotionally, and mentally. I have been asking God for strength alot this past week. I am also trying hard not to dwell on what wont be but what will be. I am pressing on to what is ahead and so grateful for ALL my friends.

Some beautiful days in the Neighborhood...

2009-06-06T10:04:00.003-04:00

We just finished a great week with our ministry partners. It was a time of 'bonding' for both families (spending time in an 1,100 square foot home with one bathroom and no dishwasher:)The most important activity on the agenda was to hold two informative meetings at our church to tell people about the future of our church plant. In the mean time, our five boys played beautifully together with very little need for our attention. I cant wait to get these pictures out ten years from now.

Yee - Haw Eli !!!

We have had so much fun this year watching instructional league. The improvement in the kids has been phenomenal! Athan got to play on a team that had three other boys from his class. Close to the end of the season, the boys teacher decided to come watch them play and it is something I don't think we will ever forget. We love you Ms. Street!!

Athan got to suit up at one of the games. It was a great experience and he did a great job.

They are getting bigger! It is especially fun to just be sitting in the living room and hear them begin their tweeting b/c momma bird just arrived with some food. I got to watch them get fed b'fast this morning - so cute.

The beginning of music on the square! A great way to spend a Friday evening with friends. We are going to really miss Kayleigh and her family, they have been like family to us. Aiden wants to marry her but she says she is marrying Carter! LOL! (you had to be there:)

Yes, what you see here is wiffle ball being played in our living room. We were enjoying an evening with some dear friends and we broke out a game of wiffle ball! Fortunately nothing got broken. Its crazy, I know...but lots of fun and laughter!

Last but not least, we bought a home in New Orleans!!!! If you want to see the picture then you will have to go on facebook to see it:)

I never thought that I would cry tears of joy over a gutted home but I did. God has been so good, so gracious, and so tender at this time in my life. I look forward to the way God will use us to bless the city of New Orleans. I am in awe of his work. I don't understand his ways but I'm doing my darnedest to surrender to those ways. I praise Him!

Good Times!

2009-05-19T22:27:00.003-04:00

What a fun time we had the other day with some friends that made us feel loved and they were very encouraging.

This couple has had many ups and downs in there lives. The husband is quite the entrepreneur and so in their 30+ years of marriage they have lived with much and they have lived with little. God has blessed them with this view of the mountains in this season of their life and it is gorgeous!! That view has God's glory written all over it:)

We began the evening by taking a hike on their property. She (a retired 2nd and 3rd grade teacher) printed out and laminated some red cardinals and "hid" them on the trail for the boys to find. They had so much fun finding those birds. We ended the hunt at the gazebo where there was a bag of m&m for each child with a note that congratulated them on their hunt. Boy, I can only hope that I will be as clever and creative with my time. They are great examples of showing love and enjoying life!

Well, the rest of the evening went well. The boys were occupied with toys and wii. We had some good laughs listening to their animal stories. Bears, Deer, flying squirrels...the best story was about a raccoon that found his way up their deck and had a peanut butter jar stuck to his head and if our friend had not helped this raccoon then it would have died. Who knows how long he had had the jar on his head, our friends say they are real good about not having those things out. That raccoon was struggling getting it off so our friends put some thick leather gloves on and talked the raccoon threw it. It did not take long for our friend to get it off, with the help of the raccoon doing his part. They were very surprised that the raccoon did not run away after, he just sat there. Our friend looks at the animal and says, 'we did it, your going to be OK'
Thank you friends for a good time, good laughs, and good food.

Five Free Passes

2009-05-15T10:28:00.002-04:00

Life is so good right now. I praise God for the way he has kept me emotionally and mentally strong during this time in our life. We are enjoying the temporary house and really not been affected at leaving the other house. We are still praising God at how fast it sold, how smooth the process went, and for being able to sell at the price we wanted to sell it. It is the neighbors that REALLy matter and we are still spending time with them:)
Now, the house hunt in New Orleans has been a bit of a challenge but we are hanging in. We have exhausted all our options and we are down to either renting or my dad might purchase a gutted house and we rent it from him till we can buy it from him. Mortgage companies see Alf and I in a position of starting a business (which we are) and in starting a new business they want to see proof of a two year income. Sooooooooo, I was talking to a friend this morning about all this house drama and he humored me by imagining God giving us five free passes. Of course you have to be a believer of Jesus Christ to get these free passes - not just anyone can get these free passes. Believing in Jesus comes with quite a bit of perks already, you know, like going to heaven when you die and living in perfect harmony forever and ever!! But what if a perk was to also have five free passes to fore see the future?? Example: I use a pass to have God show me where I am going to live in New Orleans - LOL! Something to wonder is would I have already used all five by now? Use them for, who am I going to marry? Kids, and how many? How will I die? etc. Well, since we are only imagining and humoring ourselves ... the buck stops here.
Seriously, I do covet all your prayers at this time ... to find the home that God has for us.

The piece of art under this post was done by Athan. He did it in art class at school and it was chosen to be presented at an art show at the city High School with many other art pieces done by children from all the city public schools. Alf and I were very proud of him!!

budding artist??

2009-05-09T23:41:00.000-04:00

It's a God thing

2009-04-25T15:47:00.002-04:00

Monday - sign papers to put house on the market
Wednesday - show house to first lookers (stayed about 45 min.)
Thursday - they made an offer
Friday - we counter offered and they accepted
I dont think it was the price that sold it so quickly, or that it was spotless, or the location. I think it was a God thing, ya know?!
In addition to selling our house, someone has offered us a house to stay in till we officially leave in July. The house we will be staying in had been on the market for five months and is yet to be sold. It is a cute, old, small house with lots of charm. Check it out....

Old kitchen sink

I love this door and the windows!

original hardware and the key still works:)

this tub is going to be quite an adventure!

I might just hang my sheets out to dry

There is even an old stove that still works and a swinging door from kitchen to dining room. I also love the built in shelves around the fire place. It will be a fun place to stay. A place I will admire but be glad it is only temporary. God is good...now if only he would reveal to us where we will land in New Orleans!!!

House For Sale

2009-03-31T09:36:00.002-04:00

Thats right Folks! Step right up. Come one, come all. Who would'nt want such a lovely home in the mountains of Tennessee?? Big yard, big garage, new roof, new a/c unit, 3 bed/21/2 bath, etc. Who will start the bidding?!

We have truly enjoyed our home in the mountains of Tennessee. We are grateful for the 6+years that we have lived here. God has challenged and stretched us, he has put people in our life that have touched us deeply, but it is time to move on.

What better people to minister to New Orleans then true New Orleanians, right? And what better way to minister then with longtime, dear, godly friends - the Daspits.

Like I said, we are grateful for our time here. God has shown Alf some gifts he didnt know he had and Alf has learned over the years how God has wired him. He has been searching for other ministry opportunities for some time and nothing ever felt right. We said we would NEVER move back to New Orleans but God has changed our hearts and shown us otherwise. We dont look at the place so much as a customer anymore but as a mission. I think it is beautiful on the flip side that God has been teaching Doug so much about himself and how he is wired. And now together, they have an opportunity to start something that we anticipate will give God the glory, touching people lives with the gospel.

Where I stand right now?? The process of selling a house, having to say good-bye, blah, blah really sucks - theres honesty for you! BUT, I do feel God's grace on me. He knows my needs and what I can and cannot handle. He knows the time I need to grieve what I will be leaving and the time needed to prepare for what is to come. As much as I am sad, I am also excited. I look forward to what God has for us and what he will show us. My faith and trust and hope in Him will grow stronger. I will abide in HIM!

I covet your prayers for us and the Daspits at this time. Thank you!

These are a few of my favorite things....

2009-03-09T14:30:00.002-04:00

I absolutely LOVE spring. This weekend we had gorgeous weather so I went out and cleaned my perennial garden and found this under the leaves. I also saw that my daylilies and iris are starting to show. New life is what this is - new life!

Another something I love is this collage that Athan made. He has a break between basketball and baseball and wanted me to put him back in an art class that I had him in last fall. I told him that if he let me know what kind of art work he wanted to do then I would get the supplies and we could do it at home. He told me collage. I went to the library and found two great books to help us in this activity. I had lots of supplies at home and encouraged him to use alot of different tectures. He and a friend had a great time doing there collage! I love how helpful the library was in educating us about all the diff collages you can make and that P. Picasso was who really started the idea.

Easy Mexican Casserole - YUMMY!

Is a scrumptious meal that I found on allrecipe.com

It is so easy and so yummy and if it is mexican then my kids will eat it. You can also change it up in so many ways. I love to read the comments and get ideas from that.

Tami flu - Yes or No???

2009-02-27T06:36:00.002-05:00

What a winter it has been! Athan has already had strep twice this winter and now the flu. It is pretty safe to assume that he got it from his dad, who had it last week. Alf started having symptoms on a saturday over a week ago. He goes into a walk-in clinic
(b/c both of us are horrible about going for regular check ups so we would be considered new pt. at our currant doctors)
on wednesday and comes out with a prescription for tami flu and something for a cough he had. Later, I find out that tami flu is no good if you dont start taking it in the first 48 hrs. What??!! Why did that doctor prescribe it to Alf then? It is an $80 drug!
Well, Athan gets off the bus last friday (dad is still in recovery mode - mind you, I have never seen my husband so sick in all my life) and I could tell right away something was not right. I could tell in his eyes, and his cheeks were flushed. I take him to the doctor Saturday morning. He tested positive for the flu. The boy's doctor, who we saw, is a great doctor. We know him personally. I talk to him about tami flu and what happened to Alf, ask him why that happened to Alf, and ask him his opinion about tami flu.

Listen up for those that dont know this!!!

Some Doctors (particulary those you dont have a prior relationship with) will sometimes prescribe you something vs. explain why not to prescribe you something. They dont want to look like an uncaring, incompetent doctor.

Now, Athan was in the time zone to take tami flu but after an extensive conversation with his doctor I chose not to fill the prescription. There is no guarantee of how much it will shorten the flu and Im not a big fan of taking lots of drugs....and it was $80.

Well, Athan has missed school ALL week. It has been an enjoyable, relaxing week believe it or not but still a missed week of school is not great.

Aiden now has fever. I have a friend call me up and says her daughter had the flu and started taking tami flu on the same day Athan was at the doctor and was back at school on Tuesday! Did I make a bad call? That friend had a whole bottle of tami flu that she was willing to give me for Aiden but I just needed to get the proper dosage. A pharmacist that I spoke with warned me that the drug, tami flu, is not a guarantee to shorten the flu - especially this years flu. Well, well, well.

Where do I go from here?? I give Aiden the free tami flu b/c -at this point- I like the sound of my isolation shortened if at all possible...and it is free. Also, Alf and I are going to find a doctor that we can both go to ...that we will see regularly...and have a relationship with...that wont blow smoke at us!

What is your view? I'd love to know!

Athan and His List

2009-02-24T08:33:00.002-05:00

On our way home from basketball practice, we were having a 'lovey dovey' conversation about who loves who. As I was talking to Aiden about who all loves him, Athan decides to tell us (in order) who he loves. I think to myself, this will be interesting!

1. God

2. Jesus

3. Aiden

4. Dad

5. Mom!

6. cousins

7. Aunt

8. Uncle

9. Paw - Paw

Well, I have to say that I was not disappointed with 1-3, being that my two biggest prayers for my boys is to love and serve God and that the boys would have a close bond. BUT, I make five and dad makes four! What is up with that? Im am so over it:)

By the way, sorry paw-paw. It does not make sense since you are the one that shows love to them more then any family member - lol - sooooooo funny!

What if....

2009-02-18T20:55:00.002-05:00

My Aiden loves to play the what if... game, especially when they are funny. We mostly play in the car but on occasion we will play at the dinner table where dad and Athan get to participate. Aiden thinks of what if's that are so off the wall and I will start off in funny mode then flip to dreamy mode. Kind of like this...

What if cows gave us orange juice (that is gross Aiden - not funny!)
What if we all were the color purple and had cone shaped heads (that was good mommy)
What if roads were train tracks and train tracks were roads (there would be alot more trains, Aiden)
What if we could fly like birds and sleep on clouds (aw, yeah!)
What if I was a pirate and you only had one arm (thanks Aiden)
What if we had no responsibilities and could go anywhere anytime (uh - huh)

You get the idea?? It is fun to dream - about funny off the wall stuff, and just about life. It is a gift from God to dream - to desire.

News, News, News

2009-02-06T07:01:00.002-05:00

I cant get out!!!!
I wake up yesterday and look outside to see that snow had fallen since I could not see my driveway or the street (very similar to the way it looked the day before - with the result of school being closed for the day.) I was apprehensive to school being closed again since it was going to get up in the thirties vs. staying in the teens. You would think we would have at least a two hour delay - Oh, but noooooooooooo! As I was watching the news in hopes of seeing a two hour delay, the high school bus drove by, I thought 'you have got to be kidding me!'
I normally carpool with our neighbors...neighbors that do not have a long steep driveway but a rather short flat driveway. I called to tell them not to try and come down my driveway that to go ahead and I would try to take Athan to school myself.
We are in the van - pulling out of the garage - trying - no go! I remembered how a couple of weeks ago Alf attempted the same thing and used IceMelt to get out. I tried to relive the moment. I sprinkled IceMelt - got back in the car - trying again - no go! Then....
I look out my rear view mirror and there he was, my neighbor posse! Having jumped a creek and crossed two yards in the snow, he put Athan on his back and walked back to his van to take my child to school for me. Gotta love em'
I'm always thankful for my neighbor/friends. I feel that I have some of the best in the world. Yesterday I was bubbling over with gratitude!
My dad has red eyes and is 14 yrs. old, what??!!
My sweet four year old filled out something at church regarding his dad, you know the kind -
My dad has blank hair, etc. Well, he told the teacher that Alf had red eyes and that he was 14 yrs. old. He was pretty accurate when he told the teacher that Alf had brown hair and that he likes to drink coffee. When we questioned him about the red eyes, his response was 'yeah', like 'duh.' Then we questioned him about the age.
Let me go back in time, if you will. Alf's b'day was in December and our good neighbor, you know the one (read the first section), came by on Alf's b'day this year with a little b'day jingle he made up for Alf. It went to the song from the movie Aristocats - TaRaRaBoomDeeYay....
After questioning Aiden he began to sing - TaRaRaBoomDeeYay your fourteen today. LOL! It is - your thirty four today. Well, he got the four right but just took away about twenty years of Alf's life. What a fun child!
A sweet letter that I will keep forever.
My oldest son was being tucked in bed by the babysitter for the second night in a row and expressed that he missed me. While the babysitter was reading to my youngest, my oldest decided to write a letter to Alf and I. (I will keep this forever)
Good night mom and dad. I had a lot of fun. We tide football. We finisht kung fu panda. We statd on Monday and we finisht today. Aiden and Jessica reded why I did this (heart) Love, Athan.
So he has to work on his spelling a little - He is only in the first grade:) What a sweet and tender child!
Misc.
I have squeezed EVERY drop of toothpaste out of the tube and will be going to get a new tube of toothpaste today. To get more out, I would have to cut it open!
I am hoping we can fix our vacuum cleaner so that I can stop borrowing from our fabulous neighbors (you know the ones.) And I better not get a new one for my b'day or Alf will be going in the dog house and will eat quiche and drink chai lattes every night (have you seen the youtube?!)
Being 'trapped' in your house on a snow day when the high is only 10 degrees allows you to organize and document home videos. The children loved watching themselves all day - so much that my youngest wants to be three again b/c it is a lot more fun. Love me some organization!
I am so blessed and...
I really have to get going...now.
Peace out!

A thankful heart is a happy heart

2009-02-03T14:17:00.002-05:00

A thankful heart is a happy heart.

I think of this statement alot. The statement comes from the veggietale show about madam blueberry at the stuff mart. Not only can we apply this to the times that we feel we need stuff, it can also apply to life in general.

I am thankful. I want to remain thankful to God who loves me and knows what is best for me. He is a good God. He blesses me with His omnipresence, with His word, with family and friends, etc. If I have my focus on these things then I am happy (at peace.)

I want to be thankful through the good and the bad. I think about those that are losing their jobs, those that have children suffering with medical issues, and my own personal worries about my nephew who is making very poor choices.

I lift the One who has ultimate control and I place my faith and trust in Him.

I am thankful...and 'happy'

I Need Thee Every Hour

2009-01-25T10:42:00.002-05:00

I need Thee every hour, Most Gracious Lord; No tender voice like Thine can peace afford.

I need Thee every hour, Stay Thou nearby; Temptations lose their power when Thou art nigh.

I need Thee every hour, In joy or pain; Come quickly, and abide, or life is vain.

I need Thee every hour, Teach me Thy will, And Thy rich promises in me fulfill.

I need Thee, O I need Thee; Every hour I need Thee! O bless me now, my Savior, I come to Thee. Amen.

Let it snow, Let it snow, Let it snow

2009-01-20T21:43:00.004-05:00

The things I love about sledding...

I got a great work out - I did not feel guilty not going to the gym.

I enjoyed community with others.

I love how it sucks all of my kids energy out of them.

I felt the need...the need for speed

I love making such great memories with my family.

2009 Resolutions

2009-01-19T16:34:00.001-05:00

1. Clean less

2. Pray more

Im doing really good with the first one:)
Pray that I'll do better on the second one!

Merry Christmas Friends!

2008-12-22T10:46:00.000-05:00

I Love Her

2008-12-11T16:26:00.002-05:00

I lost my mom when I was 19. That bittersweet thing called cancer took her life when she was only 50 years old. Bittersweet because it takes away those that mean so much to you but it also draws you nearer to the One that planned it.
I have a few things of my moms (not many) that are sentimental to me. Some things are very valuable and some things...well, not so much. She had some costume jewelry Ive held on to for all these years in hopes of doing something special with it - Today was that day.
I am pleased with the outcome. As you see in the picture, the large, colorful beads came from a necklace of hers. I went downtown to a store called Beadworks and got the small pearl beads and small glass beads. I made a necklace and bracelet. I will be going back to make a couple more bracelets - Yeah!

Having my mom die when I was 19, not a whole lot of grieving took place at that time. I was at a place in life where I was starting a new chapter. I had many distractions. Over the years I have had spouts of grieving but allowing life to quickly suck me back into the busyness of a job or mothering babies. Having time now to do something simple like bringing new life to some of her costume jewelry brings me healing. It is a journey, but one that I am embracing more then ever.

Comment of the Year!

2008-12-09T12:10:00.004-05:00

"It looks like the sun exploded"

This was said by one of Athan's friends while we were on our way to see lights at the Bristol Motor Speedway. It was that time of day where the sun was going down, clear skies. You could not see the sun but you could see it "exploding" in the sky passed the hills.

It was a sweet moment for me. To think of God and his creation - He shares with us beauty.

Thank you Anderson, thank you God.

A Wonderful Invention

2008-12-05T09:54:00.003-05:00

Small On/Off snowflake ornament can be found at your nearest Target Store:)
I love this idea b/c it makes it easy to turn on the christmas lights. Check it out! It makes for great xmas presents, too~ A wonderful invention!

Thankful

2008-12-01T22:19:00.002-05:00

I am thankful for a great Thanksgiving Holiday.

Wednesday - My dad, the boys, and I went over the mountain to Ashville to enjoy the Gingerbread House contest at the Grove Park Inn. The hotel itself is quite a site. It is over 95 years old and well to do these days. The Gingerbread Houses are so fun to look at. Everything is supposedly edible. And I got to eat at my favorite Ashville resteraunt, La Paz! We ended the day by making our own Gingerbread House and Train. Im thankful for getting to make good memories

Thursday - My dad, Athan, and I got up early to walk the 5k Turkey Trot. It was Athans first time and he did great. My dad won 2nd in his age category. Im thankful for a healthy dad! At lunch time we enjoyed a feast at some good friends house. It is our third time in a row to spend Thanksgiving with these friends so I think we can officially call it a tradition?? Im thankful for dear, loving friends. All I had to bring was corn and the sweet potatoe casserole by request.

Friday - was a day to just hang out. Im thankful for rest.

Saturday - We went tree shopping and brought one home to decorate. I only did 5 strands of lights this year but it still looks good Amanda:) Alf and I love looking at our ornaments and remembering where they have come from, I love my angel ornament collection, and the kids love theirs. Im soooooooo thankful for my family. By the way, Alf was gleeming that night - Roll Tide!

Sunday - As I cooked and listened to christmas CD's, my family was out shopping for my christmas present. The quiet time was a christmas present in itself. We had a friend come to dinner that night and just when you think your doing something to touch someone, that someone touches you. Im thankful for pleasant surprises.

T.M.I.

2008-11-20T10:38:00.004-05:00

T.M.I. makes me laugh!

T.M.I. gross' us out! When your friend 'Sue' who lives across town says she can get away with not showering for three days, dont even get me started - I mean, she even works out sometimes in those three days! My hair would be so greasy (I have virgin hair), and other parts of my body would...yuk! With the runny nose I had recently, everytime I would put my 'mineral foundation' on, I would get a drip from my nose onto my brush and I would suddenly be feeling a wet drip being brushed along my face - hee, hee

T.M.I. encourages me - Sharing to much information helps us to see that we are all funny, weird, and complicated! Isnt that great!

T.M.I. discourages me - When your having a conversation with someone and you both get down to the 'meat and potatoes,' it discourages me to be answering questions such as "what are your dreams and passions when it comes to ministry?" To be honest, I answered it by saying "that big questions deserves big thoughts" and I still have not answered it. I struggle with those kind of questions. I think that I am a simple minded person, or maybe just dumb - hee, hee!

Funny Moments

2008-11-19T18:31:00.002-05:00

We had just finished eating at Atlanta Bread Company. Aiden gets his free cookie that always comes with the kids meal. After eating the cookie, I handed him a wipe to clean his face and hands. As Aiden was cleaning, I was talking to Alf and my dad. We were taking a drive out to Bristol (a 30 min. drive) Before I know it - I hear snoring - with his face covered with a wet wipe!!

Lentil Soup - request granted

2008-11-19T15:36:00.002-05:00

Lentil Soup

1 bag of dry lentils
10 cups of water
1 green pepper - chopped
1 onion - chopped
2 chicken bouillon cubes
1 T dried sage
2 cloves garlic
1 pkg of fully cooked smoked sausage - cut into small pieces
Bring to a boil then simmer for 30-45 min. - until veggies are soft.

Other ingredients I like to add:
2 celery stalks - chopped
2-4 carrots - chopped
sometimes I add spinach, fresh or frozen
New Orleans seasoning

Other ingredients you can try:
potatoes
yellow pepper
add some chicken stock in place of some water and alleviate bouillon cubes.

A healthy soup that freezes well! Yeah - only Aiden and I eat this, not Alf or Athan.

New and Improved!

2008-11-19T15:33:00.002-05:00

I do not want the word 'boat' on any comment made, do you hear me?!

R.I.P.

2008-11-12T10:34:00.003-05:00

I bought these shoes....well, I cant even remember when. A long time ago. Did I buy them when I lived in Dallas or did I buy them in college?
I dont know how you will react to this post. Some may be appauled that I am getting rid of such fine shoes, some may laugh that I actually wore these shoes, and some may be indifferent and think that this is a stupid topic to blog about.
I am proud to say that I am relinguishing these shoes to some other world.
I have certainly gotten my moneys worth.
They sort of had two lives. When I first bought them I probably wore them for only a couple of years. I gave them a new life since I have lived here in Tenn.
The decision to have kept them for so long is somewhat an emotional attachment (I'll admit) and just simply being a frugile person.
I am happy to have replaced them with a fine set of shoes. Brown, comfortable (naturalizers), casual but not too casual.
That is all I got. What do you hold on to?

2 in 1

2008-11-04T19:51:00.004-05:00

That is right. 2 in 1 today. I have alot I want to write - so here we go...

What does it take?

You know how there are things in life that you know that are good, and that you know you should do but you just dont. Now, this may all come to you as a surprise but I have not strongly encouraged scripture memory to my kids. I know, can you believe it? These poor 'pastor kids.' What does it take? - to get my butt in gear?

I memorized scripture as a child and I am grateful for it. I have always wanted my children at a young age to have the same experience. Have I shared that experience with them? NO!

I had a lady, who had four grown kids, share with me about how she taught alphabet scripture to them and how she had them illustrate the verses. So cool, right?! Did that motivate me when I heard the idea two years ago? NO!

What does it take? Here it is...

On our way out of church last sunday I noticed Athan with a treat bag. He told me the bag was for saying his memory verse. I thought it strange that he said his memory verse having no recollection of us working on the verse this last month. He admitted to me that he cheated by looking down at the paper. After giving him a confused and disappointed look his smirk turned to a very sad face. I took the treat bag and steered both boys to the car and told Athan that we would talk about this when we got home. In the two minutes it takes to get home - yes, we are literally two minutes away. We could walk if there were sidewalks - I was thinking about what I should do. My son, Athan, is a very tenderhearted child that usually does not need much discipline to get the point across. I wanted to be very careful in how I handled this. Think about it...he chose to cheat rather then just say I didnt memorize it. He is an achiever and strives to do good in just about everything he does. When he 'fails' it crushes him. We went in his room and had a good talk. A talk that involved him sobbing and me fighting back tears and trying to keep it emotionally together. In the conversation it dawned on me, not only did I want to teach my kid that honesty is the best policy BUT that scripture memory is one of the most important things you can do. I had him give up the bag, write an apology to his teacher at church, and had him REALLY memorize the verse. Not only did we memorize it sunday, we illustrated it today! (Athan loves to draw so it was really fun to see what he would come up with)

I share this with such true joy. It was a time to watch my son learn alot about doing the right thing and about being forgiven and forgiving himself. It was also a time for me to get a

kick in the pants!

Our L verse...

Let us run with perserverence the race marked out for us. Hebrews 12:1

they are jumping over hurdles - get it! :-)

Im a Batman lover...

Can you not see why??

A day in the life of Batman Aiden. First he wakes up and usually gets his brother to get his b'fast(with a yummy vitamin to give him strong muscles, of course.) If anyone can just help him get his b'fast b/c he wakes up hungry.

Next, he rids himself of the wet pull-up and gets real clothes on (with the instruction from batmans mom, of course.)

Then, he has to prep himself for the day which means three short sprays of dads deoderant and a little bit of moms hairspray and teeth brushing (with batman toothpaste, of course.)

Through out the day, he fights crime and protects the good and fair citizens of the nation - the usual.

(Jumping on the trampoline, running errands with mom, wrestling with dad, playing wii, making something for his preschool teacher.)

At the end of the day, he is quite the helper in the kitchen. I love his company and sometimes he really does help:) And he compliments and gobbles up my dinner even when it consists of spinach and mushrooms!

Gosh, I love this kid. Arent four year olds great?! He has worn this costume non stop since friday (except for at church...of course!)

Randomness

2008-10-29T22:14:00.002-04:00

Lets see....

It snowed this week. Crazy stuff. I wonder if that means that we will have a super cold winter this year. Everyone says it is time for one. The more snow - the more sledding - Yeah!

I'm finally getting excited about the boys costumes this year - Athan will be Indiana Jones (thanks to someone lending us a hat and a canteen) and Aiden with be Super Aiden (made from a sweat suit and cut up felt). These are not very complicated costumes:) This year I just have to make sure they stay warm.

Aiden is so cute. He is that child that makes me laugh the hardest but also makes me the most angry. Athan is pretty even keel and a very sensitive child. I love them both so much but in such different ways. I hope and pray so much that they will grow to love the Lord - in a special way. To truly make it their own thing. Not just be 'religious' b/c they are pastor kids.

Im so glad that Alf is not sick anymore and I am exhausted from cleaning all the germs away. I did some DEEP cleaning today. So much so that even my back hurts.

We had fun carving pumpkins tonight with some friends. I had hopes of bringing the boys to a church near by that sells a slew of pumpkins and letting them pick their own. I would take pictures and we would come home for a nice cup of hot cocoa. Well, I ended up picking up pumpkins at our nearest grocery store.

It has been a busy month. My 'to do list' has not gotten smaller. I think fall break and a day to Knoxville for a game has made the month feel exceptionally full.

The GAME! I almost forgot to mention the GAME! Someone was very generous and thoughtful to give Alf and I tickets to the Tenn/Alabama game in Knoxville. It was my first experience. It was so cool.

walked an interesting path to get to the stadium - watched the band march in the stadium - entertained by how some people dress at such events - eating a hot dog at the game/yummy - enjoyed perfect game weather/cool, but not to cold - being a night game - watching an eagle soar down to the field while the national anthem was sung - having the game on TV/got to learn about the man in the red hat and was fascinated by the 'floating' camera - people watched/grateful my husband does not like snuff - loved the half time show - especially loved that BAMA won/29 to 9!!

Naughty and Nice

2008-10-22T08:38:00.002-04:00

Caramel Popcorn (NAUGHTY - not so good for you:)

1 cup of butter
2 cups of brown sugar
1/2 cup corn syrup
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp vanilla
5 quarts of popped popcorn (2-3 bags is what I use)

1. First four ingredients - let boil for 4 min. with out stirring
2. Add baking soda and vanilla
3. Remove from heat and pour over popcorn on a flat baking pan (I use a large pampered chef stone with really short sides - forgot the name of the pan)
4. Place in 250 degree oven. Stir every 15 min for an hour.

Granola Bars (NICE - good for you)

2 1/2 cups rice cereal
2 cups oats
1/2 cup of raisins (or 1/4 cup of chocolate chips and 1/4 nuts) Get creative!
2/3 cup brown sugar
2/3 cup light corn syrup OR honey
2/3 cup peanut butter
1 tsp vanilla
4 T ground flax seed

1. mix cereal and oats together
2. heat sugar and honey just until boiling/take off the stove
3. add PB and vanilla to sugar and honey/mix well
4. add everything else (if your going to do the choc. chips - throw them in when your rolling out)
5. Roll it out and cut into bars

P.S. My kids new favorite cereal is the cheep toasted O's cereal with milk and a couple scoops of Ovaltine mixed in. Fun and better then buying chocolate sweet cereals, right?

Cez't La Vie...

2008-10-17T16:12:00.007-04:00

.....thats just the way it goes - sometimes!

Thoughts about our trip to the Shanondoah Valley, VA (Massanutten Resort)

1. It sucks when your kids puke on vacation. (waking up in the middle of the night - twice)

2. It was really nice to get away - really.

3. I loved seeing Aiden's interest when I was doing a puppet show for him in a childrens museum. He was talking to the puppets like they were real.

4. Alf and I laughed when we heard Athan make the comment, 'whoa, be unto you.' It is crazy what 1st grade teachers say that stick with your kid.

5. It sucks when your kids puke on vacation. (after the 18th hole of putt-putt. And Alf having to leave his ninth hole of golf to come get us.)

6. Grateful for a day at the fabulous indoor waterpark where everyone felt well.

7. Still wondering how the magician performed some of his wicked tricks...and did he really grow up as a foster kid or was he just saying that? (same day as the waterpark - we were all feeling well!)

8. Grateful the condo had a washer/dryer. Washed away alot of germs:)

9. God is great! We got to enjoy his greatness at a Safari and at the Natural Bridge.

10. My kids watched the show Fairly Odd Parents waaaaaaaaaaaaay to much this past week!

11. Found out that bringing tape (you use for painting) and a few hot wheels is loads of entertainment for the boys.

12. Dwelt on a scripture this week that was very enriching for me personally -

Psalm 103:1-5 Bless the Lord, o my soul, and all that is with in me, bless His holy name. Bless the Lord, oh my soul, and forget not his benefits - who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.

Tag - I'm IT!

2008-10-07T15:05:00.002-04:00

10 years ago...

married for a couple of years
new to a big city
felt very vulnerable
loved garage sales
eating alot of Tex Mex food

Things on my 'to do' list today...

cook dinner
vacuume
watch Athan get off the bus
love on my family
go to a PTA meeting tonight
etc.

Snacks I enjoy...

dipping french fries in chocolate frosty
homemade caramel popcorn
smoked gouda cheese on wheat crackers
pretzels, peanut butter, choc. chip combo
tortilla chips and good avocado dip, or cheese dip, or salsa:)
LOVE food

If I were a millionaire...

travel
travel
travel
travel
and give to those who are in need

Places I have lived...

Lousiana
Texas
Alabama
Tennessee
Southern Girl all the way!

Jobs I have had...

working at a plant nursery
cashier at a grocery store
working at daycares
orthodontic technician
spoiled - did not have many jobs:)

Yo-Yo! Artist in the House

2008-10-06T10:09:00.002-04:00

Athan wanted to take a special art class instead of soccer. Art is something he is passionate about and so I want to bring that out of him. He is doing a great job, having fun, and we are both learning. (this picture does not do justice) Am I a proud mom or what?!

Where I live...

2008-09-28T14:32:00.007-04:00

Our street sign. . . something we pass everyday and don't ever think about.

I've not lived on that many streets in my life. I grew up in just one house in New Orleans - college in B'ham (dorm) - Seminary years in Dallas (couple apts.) - and now I am on

Antioch Road.

The street where Alf and I purchased our first house almost six years ago. It is a street I love. It is in an area of the city that makes you feel a bit in the country. I am officially in the city but pass a field of horses if I go one way down my street and pass a field of cows and tobacco farming down the other way. (But only fifteen minutes away from the mall, Starbucks, Target, etc)

Antioch Road is a very long street. As I said, It has several large fields, there are three churches on it and a Muslim masque on the way. It has a couple of apartment complexes, an entrance to a park, and a such a diverse group of houses. The wealthy and the poor live on this street. And some who are in the middle :-)

As time has passed over the years that we have lived on Antioch, I feel I have made roots. A side of me feels like I could raise my kids in this house all through their school life but the other side of me is feeling like that might not happen. I don't know what the Lord will have us do.

'Should I stay or should I go'

The Lord has blessed us with GREAT neighbors . . . on Antioch and across the creek in the back. Some of those neighbors are like family. Some are medically prepared for any trauma our boys might face! Some lean on us to provide their kids a place to hang out. Some I can rely on to help with all the fund-raisers the school throws at us b/c they have "been there, done that."

Great neighbors on Antioch Road!

So there is my street . . . not a street my kids can play on and certainly not a street I let the kids cross by themselves. But it has worked for us.

Thank you Lord!

(I got this idea on overlooked blog - it was fun - come on and try it - I dare ya)

ROLL TIDE ! ! !

2008-09-25T08:26:00.003-04:00

Tis the season for football.

Going to college in Birmingham, we had to make the decision - Alabama or Auburn. Me, not being much of a sports fanatic, chose Alabama because I like their colors better:) Alf has reasons for picking Alabama that he can explain on his blog one day. (Im thinking of James and Jennifer, their going to be so disappointed in this post, but not surprised)

So, Aiden's preschool this week has informed parents to feel free to dress their kids in football team attire on Thursday. We-e-ell, that totally gives Alf a chance to have his kid represent. When I dropped Aiden off this morning, he did the 'roll tide' so well. There was almost a tear in my eye - not really.

-sorry these pictures are not the great-

We had to actually go the the mall last night to get these hats. The boys both had fun picking out the ones they wanted. Mom and Dad got T-hirts b/c we were given tickets to see Tenn play Bama in Knoxville at the end of Oct! :) (I'll show picts of that later)

We started our mall adventure at Dicks sporting goods. And Dicks rocks for two little boys. We putted the green, ran around the track in the shoe area, we pretended to be boxers and punched punching bags, and we shot some hoops. Good times were had. As excited as they were, all I could think about was - they dont get out much.

ROLL TIDE ! ! !

2008-09-20T14:22:00.000-04:00

You Belong in 1967

You are a free spirit with a huge heart. Love, peace, and happiness rule - oh, and drugs too.

What Year Do You Belong In?

Firecracker, Firecracker, Boom-Boom-Boom

2008-09-18T19:47:00.003-04:00

So I was a cheerleader back in the day, so what?!

I actually thought it would be fun to show Athan what I looked like when I was in first grade. After school yesterday, I busted out all of my old yearbooks. (I have every year! Yeah me!) Athan was certainly intrigued. But what interested him more then the first grade was high school.

He saw that mom was a cheerleader! He asked if I was the best at cheer leading, and I was quick to tell him that it was just for fun (and fun we had:)) He assumed I had more friends then him, and again I was quick to remind him of all the friends HE has. He wanted to know what other things I did. The list was not very long and he found out that mom is not much of a competitor. Anything I ever did was just all for fun!

Just a side note:
It is funny to me how much more I push myself now as an adult when I am working out - is it maturity or working out stress in my life?

Anywhoo! That evening after looking at pictures, pictures, pictures...we were on the floor playing with Legos (playing on the floor with my children - something I don't do nearly enough.) We have one lego head that has a girl face, so that is who I play with. I gave her an outfit and Athan surprised me with something for my person...

POM-POMS!!!!

Official Rednecks

2008-09-05T22:58:00.002-04:00

You might be a redneck if...I believe it is official. Rednecks, THEY are. I refuse to be included in this craziness. You tell Athan, 'Dupont', and he can tell you the driver-number-etc. He enjoyed his first race with dad. Said it was loud! He did not even fall asleep till the drive home. Athans favorite driver is #88 today, it might change tomorrow.
(This race was a couple of weeks ago, but thought yall might enjoy seeing this!)

The Shack

2008-09-01T23:54:00.002-04:00

I really enjoyed this part of the book today....

"...Just b/c you make horrendous and destructive choices does not mean you deserve less respect for what you inherently are-the pinnacle of my Creation and the center of my affection."

"...my purposes are not for my comfort, or yours. My purposes are always and only an expression of love. I purpose to work life out of death, to bring freedom out of brokenness and turn darkness into light. What you see as chaos, I see as a fractal."

Faith never knows where it is being led, But it knows and loves the One who is leading. - Oswald Chambers

My love and faith are growing deeper. I still have far to go - but receive JOY knowing that He cares for me and that He has got it all under control

A Long Relaxing Weekend!?

2008-08-30T11:03:00.002-04:00

What a nice beginning for a long relaxing weekend.
First, Athan crawled in bed with Alf and I and as Alf continued to sleep or at least pretend to, Athan wanted him and I to think of all the different opposites. Thinking of opposites got Athan and I hungry so off we go to the kitchen.
Athan is my cereal boy - low maintenance. Aiden will ask for cereal b/c Athan does, but he never eats it. Im trying to think creatively about feeding Aiden in the morning. So I have bought some b'fast bars and oatmeal in hopes that some b'fast diversity will help. When Aiden wakes up this morning he asks for cereal (as always), eats a go-gurt, and the dry cereal is still sitting on the counter having never been touched. I choose to eat half of a grapefruit (b/c I try to make healthy choices to stay alive to see my kids grow up) and some banana bread (it is such a great thing to make when you have ripe bananas)
I paint a second coat of trim in my bathroom. Alf tiles, paints the walls, puts in a new vent, faucet and light fixture in and then has the nerve to gives me the yucky job of calking and painting trim. What is up with that? I prefer to paint on a canvas.
The boys and I have one serious kung-fu/wresting match. We even worked up a sweat. Maybe I burned about a 100 calories? Maybe.
There is some sponge bob involved in the morning and actually re-emphasized to my Athan about how bragging can hurt a friend. GO sponge bob!
Alf and I try to help the boys research how to make a 3-D paper car. Athan gets these ideas in his head. That is still in progress - wish us luck!
Aiden and I have had fun looking at pictures that we have stored on the computer. Mainly the ones we have taken this summer. This was alot of fun, to see what was captured and to see how much fun life can be. There are some of the boys that I certainly need to frame and their are others I need to print off for a PrK project. I didnt know that PrK would require homework!
Well, now my blogging time has been interupted by two boys that are getting on each others nerves. Let me see how long it will take to get back to
"a long relaxing weekend"
Maybe throwing in some neighborhood kids and a slip&slide will cheer everyone up and allow mama to sit and just read a book:)

Tortellini YUMness!

2008-08-17T16:14:00.003-04:00

Alf eats to simply survive (just look at him!) and I eat for pure enjoyment (so I have to exercise alot!). Here are a few fantastic recipes that I dont think will disappoint anyone - I dont think:) And they both happen to have tortellini in them. Also, you could easily double both of these recipes for a larger group of people.

-go to allrecipes.com-

The first one is called 'Italian Sausage Soup with Tortellini.' Certainly give and take away to your liking. It is very healthy, easy, and scrumptious.

The second one is called 'Spinach Tomato Tortellini.' I added cut up ham and mushrooms in this one and I thought this would be something I would find at a restraunt - it is that good. Even Alf, that says very little about food, commented on how good this was.

Hope you enjoy!

The love of GOLF

2008-08-07T19:07:00.003-04:00

Is this not beautiful? The golfer, yes. But especially the view:)

FIREMEN ROCK!

2008-08-07T18:37:00.003-04:00

The boys have been asking me for a long time to take them to visit the fire station. Well, I finally brought them (and a few other friends) and it was an awsome little trip! The firemen (and woman) showed us around the station, the living quarters. Then they showed us what a fireman would look like if he ever had to fight a fire. We got to see what all there is on a firetruck and was given cool pencils, coloring books and stickers.
What I like to see is how they take pride in their stuff and care for what they have so that it lasts along time. They care about educating children and parents alike:) on staying safe and being prepared for if anything were to happen.
One of the little girls, Helen, that was with us today, her family experienced a house fire several years ago. (She would have been to little to remember - she knows only what her parents tell her) Her family has been able to recover from the fire and basically revamp the entire house. The house is near the fire station we were at and I asked the fireman if he was here and experienced her house fire. He said that he happened to be at another station that night but he remembers it well b/c a good friend of his was involved in letting that fire out. It happened to be not your typical house fire. It was coming up through the basement. There were two guys at the scene - one wanted to go in and one had a gut feeling that something was different and to not go in. Thank goodness they did not go in or they would have fallen thru the floor and they said that they would not have been able to escape.
There you go - there are some reasons that Firemen Rock!

Date Night (s)

2008-07-14T14:33:00.002-04:00

I was not sure Aiden was old enough to go to VBS this year. Alf and I went to drop off Athan and maybe Aiden - with crossed fingers. They took BOTH of them!! This VBS meets at night AND feeds them dinner - yeah buddy
We will enjoy a starbucks(someone gave Alf a GC), eat out (with half price coupons), and I will attempt to Golf with Alf (golf courses make Alf happy:)
I love my husband!! God has richly blessed me with a gentle, understanding, hard working, funny man.
He is gentle with his touch and with his words. Even though it aggravates me when he tells me to lower my voice while we are 'throwing down' about something probably stupid:) I can count on one hand the times he has raised his voice. That means alot to me.
He is understanding in that he deals with my 'stuff' He listens well and tries to understand my thoughts and feelings. He understands my role as a mom and the challenges it brings. He steps in without me asking most times.
He is a hard worker at work and at home. He puts alot of sweat and heart into his job but does well not letting it consume him. He gives alot of time in making our home nice (digging big plants for me, washing siding, cleaning carpet, etc)
Lastly, he is funny! I had someone ask me one time if I laugh all the time being married to him. OK, he is not THAT funny:) He keeps things real. He throws just a little bit of sarcasm in there too. His humor is what I need in my life and God knew that.
Im excited about our date nights!! (and sex anytime between 5:30 and 8:45)

What!!??

2008-06-19T12:30:00.001-04:00

The pictures are jumbled. The words are not in the right place. And I have no idea how I was able to accomplish such a thing.
Anyway, We are having a fun summer!

Summertime!

2008-06-19T12:02:00.005-04:00

Music on the Square

Doe River Gorge Train Ride

(here you go Daph - a pict of me! lol)

Aiden finishes an Ice cream cone.

The Boys with their T's and balloon toysfrom Kayleigh's party
Swimming!

Celebrate Good Times, Come on!

2008-05-21T14:25:00.002-04:00

It is time to celebrate!

I am over the termites, draped a blanket over my chair, AND my feet have been soaked and toes painted!

On to celebrating - Athan is finishing his Kindergarten year and Aiden is successfully going potty on the toilet! Woo - Hoo! The Nelson boys are growing up.

So that means we are headed to Chuck E. Cheese. What better place to celebrate with a three and six year old? But we certainly won't be eating their pizza. Oh my gosh, no way! We will be playing games to earn tickets. We will probably win 50 tickets and only be able to choose between a green plastic army man, a peppermint, or a Cinderella ring. Man, they rip us off but that's OK. It is for the kids and they will have lots of fun.

They'll probably pick the green plastic army man:)

Momma says they'll be days like this...

2008-05-16T09:37:00.003-04:00

...they'll be days like this, my momma said. Have you got the tune in your head?
The termite guy is inspecting the house because those lovely creatures swarm around us in the spring. I have a chair in my living room that needs serious TLC and I have no clue how to fix the problem (I tried to take a spot out and now I have a water line around where I cleaned - can anyone help?), AND I am potty training my child who will be four in August (He has totally not been interested anytime we have attempted but NO mercy this time!)
Uuuuggghh!!!
Did I mention the tons of laundry that always needs to be done, the nasty kitchen floor that needs to be cleaned and all I really want to do is soak my feet then paint my toes. Oh well!! Such is life, huh?

Simplicities...Yes, again.

2008-05-10T22:43:00.002-04:00

This time I'm not just going to show my kids and neighbor kids feeding ducks:)
Although, it is a very simple and enjoyable thing to do. Some other simple and enjoyable things that I have experienced lately are picking fresh flowers out of my garden to have inside my house, and to remember how nice it is to see horses anytime I drive down my street. As you all know, life can get a little crazy or your mind gets a bit 'flooded.' So it is nice, every now and then, to just look at what is around you. What God has blessed you with right NOW.
OK, OK! So I have to do this alot...b/c I tend to forget to think of the little things...alot!
Some simple things I have enjoyed this weekend -
.playing legos with the family.
.recieving b'fast in bed this morning by Athan.
.just listening to my Aiden talk with his cute lisp.
.washing Aiden's freckles.
.making chocolate covered strawberries.
.sharing them with my close neighbor friend.
.reading library books to my children.
.to watch Alf really enjoy something I cook.
.to watch my boys hysterically laugh at watching a balloon deflate and make a fart noise!!!!
Enjoy the simple things and Happy Mother's Day

Search Kindly

2008-05-05T22:08:00.001-04:00

The Simplicities of Life

2008-05-03T21:28:00.002-04:00

Feed ducks and don't litter!!!

A visit home...

2008-04-29T22:42:00.004-04:00

...to the ZOO!! Actually, I love to visit the zoo when I go home to visit New Orleans. Oh - the boys love it too :) It is truly a wonderful zoo. You will just have to go see it to believe it!
Athan asked me last year, when we were at the zoo, if we could next time spend little time looking at animals and more time playing on the playground and monkey hill. So his request was granted.

The boys pretending to be flamingos.

Ring Pops!!

This picture is taken right before the get soaking wet - so fun!
(thanks Aunt V for coming with us and for the fake snake and artsy T-shirt - your the BEST!)