A Gift FROM Me...

OK, it took all week, BUT here are my name plates from the Names Meme.

Here are the directions for the meme:
Write 8 of your blog friends' names in a unique way and post them. You must write the blogger's name that tagged you, then add 7 others. Be creative.

Please remember that I am NOT very skilled at this like some of you are. I only added enough to make it a total of 8. I am not even sure what program is best to do it. Without further ado, here's for those who tagged me and some other dear blogging friends:

This first one goes to Daisy over at Lazy Daisy's log. She and her husband are serving on the mission field in Virginia. She blesses me so much as I read her blog!
Melli gets this one. She makes me laugh and she makes me think of someone who simply enjoys life...and I think this little girl, with her red hair, could be Melli's daughter!!

Jane over at Cozy Reader gets this one. She and her husband are doing amazing work in Venezuela. If you have not been over to her place to read all about it, GO!



My SIL, Heather get this one. She is someone who makes time for family and friends and balances with style (and with coffee). This is for my dear friend, Mary who is such a shining light in the blogosphere. She shares from her heart in so many ways. I'm proud to call her "friend"!

Jill is the recipient of this next one. She collects art with wild cats on it. But I also think she is a woman with a purpose. She's a leader like a lion with the heart of a lamb.

I'd be remiss if I didn't also include Danielle in my gifts as she is such a gift to me. Each and every post reflects someone who is so "real' with the world around her. If you haven't been over to visit Danielle, go see her at The BiPolar Diaries.
My final name tag goes to Carrie. Carrie inspires me each and every week as she shares about life in her Lil' Corner of the World. She's always got a new meal plan going on and she balances her life with grace and style!
Well, that's all from MY corner of the world. I'm off for a whirlwind weekend. I hope you ladies enjoy your gifts. Hugs to all!!

MOST days, I like PB&J...

I truly do like a good PB&J sandwich every now and then. I have my favorite peanut butter (Jif-Reduced Fat-Creamy) and my favorite jelly (Smuckers Grape). Add a nice cup of cold milk, and I am suddenly eight or nine or ten again.

But, around the second week of school, I really hate what they represent. You see, the school lunch program is a federally funded program. It is designed so that all children can get a well-balanced meal at lunch time (regardless of socio-economic status). Normally, an elementary school lunch consists of a "main dish", vegetable, fruit, and milk. Occasionally there is a roll or something thrown in there as well.

But, on day seven of school, things CAN change for you. If you are a child who has a parent that neglected to fill out the application for free/reduced lunch OR you are a child of a parent who simply isn't responsible enough to hand you your lunch money, YOU are no longer "entitled" to the lunch that everyone else gets. Nope. YOU get PB&J. And for good measure, they'll add the milk! One sandwich and a milk.

Now, picture every five year old you've ever known. They're little. They have interesting thought processes. But the beginning of school is one GIANT training ground for them. Many of them think the people in the lunchroom are "giving" them a lunch everyday. In fact, these are the kids who genuinely LIKE their school lunches. They certainly have little or no understanding of "accounts" and paperwork and applications for free/reduced lunch. I'm not even sure they understand the "IOU" slip they get when they haven't paid.

Add to this picture what I "got" to see and do today. For every child who fits in the category I described above, the scenerio goes like this.

1. Pick up my milk.
2. Tell the lady whether I want macaroni and cheese or a ham and cheese sandwich.
3. She adds carrots and a roll to my meal.
4. I get to pick out a fruit. I can choose from a banana, pineapple cup, or grapes. I choose grapes.
5. I go to the lady to pay and put in my PIN number.
6. The lady at the "money table" announces, "NOPE. You don't have any money left. You have to have peanut butter and jelly."
7. She picks up your tray and returns it to the first lady who gave you all the stuff to begin with.
8. She brings you a tray with ONE measly sandwich on it and smiles at you when she says, "Remind Mom to send money in with you tomorrow." And then she sends you to join your class while THEY eat mac&cheese and/or their ham&cheese sandwich.

Can you imagine the devastation? Can you imagine the confusion? Can you imagine if that is the ONLY "real" meal that child will get today? Can you imagine what happens when a child has no "Mom" at home? Can you imagine what it feels like to be the "most" responsible person in your house and yet be shorter than everyone else and basically ignored?

Yep, MOST days, I like PB&J.

Today, however, is not one of them!

Gifts for Me

I have the BEST blogging friends in the world!! Yesterday three of them blessed me via this meme that is spinning around the blogosphere right now. Here are the directions for the meme:

Write 8 of your blog friends' names in a unique way and post them. You must write the blogger's name that tagged you, then add 7 others. Be creative.

Before I share my gifts, I want to share that I absolutely am a novice at creating this type of thing! I have also seen this done using things around the house and being creative with photos. I don't have time to do the photos today...so I'm going to make the name tags. Here are my three GIFTS:

This one is from Melli over at Insanity Prevails.

Jane over at Cozy Reader made this one.

This one is from
Daisy over at Lazy Daisy Log. Aren't they CUTE??? Now, I'm off to get mine made. Ladies, be patient, I am a single Mother this week so this may take a day or so. And THANK YOU for blessing my life in SO MANY WAYS each and every day!!

Weekend Window

It's been a while since I posted a Weekend Window, but since ours was JAM PACKED, I decided it would be a good idea.

Friday night ended week 1 of school. I chaperoned our school's FCAT Dance. This is a party we throw for those students who achieve on our state's mandated test. It was a lot of fun. Of course, I came home EXHAUSTED...the good kind.

Saturday was CLEANING OUT day at my house. I was determined to work on our garage which was FULL...especially since DH's office boxes are all now stored there (and trust me, pastor's have a TON of books). We took two trips to Goodwill and got pretty much half of it done. It was SO HOT that I just couldn't go any further. I also made a load to go to school (because, trust me, TEACHERS also have a TON of books). All the boys pitched in and helped...but DS 3 was an absolute trooper. He loaded. He mopped. He schlepped. He blessed his Mother. He and I jumped in a friend's pool Saturday afternoon to cool off and BOY was it refreshing!

Saturday night was DS 2's first Debutante Party. He is escorting one of his friends for the season. It was an 80's party. I had to laugh because I really couldn't tell him HOW to dress for it at first. I mean the 80's are a bit of a blur for me. They had a great time. This whole experience is absolutely amazing for him and for us. I mean some of these families spend $15,000 - $100,000 on the Deb's party! Yesterday, DS 2 told me that some Deb's are wearing Vera Wang gowns to the Ball in December. Amazing! I just keep thinking of all the things that money "could" be used for....

Sunday, DH left for another week in Texas. He's been home for a while, so we'll have to get our "groove" back for when he's gone. I miss him so much when he's gone.

After church, DSs 2, 3, and 4 and I headed to Tampa for a soccer game. We picked up my Mom and had lunch at Cracker Barrell before going to the fields. It was HOT HOT HOT out there...and DSs 2's team lost. There were some bad calls for certain. I am pretty sure it should have been at least 2 - 1. Oh well.

By the time we got home last night, I was ready to CRASH. And that is exactly what I did.

Just another few days of my crazy life..

Have a GREAT week, everyone!!

When it comes to schools...

We have just finished the first week of school. As most of you probably already know, I work in a school that services some of our most needy students. And along with needy students, occasionally, come needy parents (or guardians). One of my "other" duties is Parent Drop-Off and Pick-Up. Now I LOVE this part of my job! I get to talk to parents and grandparents every single day. And some I have connected with over the years. It also gives me a glimpse into their worlds. In some cases children are living in their cars. In others, their cars are chaotic reflections of what their homes must be.

This week, a few "truths" have popped back into my mind via my contact with parents and students:

They are NOT keeping their smartest kids at home!
No matter how chaotic and crazy their worlds seem, most really do care very deeply for their children.
For the most part, parents want what's best for their kids.
And they want them to achieve better and more than they did.
Many believe that their children act the same way at home that they do at school. While some do, some really don't.
It really takes time for those parents who live in a world of distrust everyday, to develop trust for school and educators.
Some really have very limited or NO resources to help their children with academics beyond the school day.
Some are downright scared to set foot on a school campus because they have horrible images of what school was for them.

BUT

No matter what world they come from or home life they lead, ALL parents and their children deserve to be taught by passionate and committed educators!

It's my dream that one day this will be true in every classroom across the country.

(Semi)Wordless Wednesday: He's Got High Hopes...

Saw this when we were in Ohio. All I could think was: "What seems like 'no big deal' to you, could be a HUGE burden to someone else."

Because staying quiet just wouldn't be right...

I actually considered NOT telling anyone that I read "another" book--especially on the heels of my last book review. I don't want any of my readers to think that's all I do...nor do I want to make your heads spin. I was going to just read the book, add it to my sidebar, and quietly continue through my pile that's begging "to be read".

Of all the books in my pile, though, this is NOT the one that bears no review. I need to make a few statements before I get into the meat of my review:
* This is NOT a Christian book.
* It includes several accounts of violence
* The language is not always "clean"

That being said, I MUST share it with you and here's why:

It's another memoir...written by Janine Latus a journalist and author whose work has appeared in several magazines. It is her story. And her sister, Amy's storyas well. Here is an excerpt from the website about the book:

In April 2002, Janine Latus's youngest sister, Amy, wrote a note and taped it to the inside of her desk drawer. "Today Ron Ball and I are romantically involved," it read, "but I fear I have placed myself at risk in a variety of ways. Based on his criminal past, writing this out just seems like the smart thing to do. If I am missing or dead this obviously has not protected me..."

That same spring Janine Latus was struggling to leave her marriage -- a marriage to a handsome and successful man. A marriage others emulated. A marriage in which she felt she could do nothing right and everything wrong. A marriage in which she felt afraid, controlled, inadequate, and trapped.

Ten weeks later, Janine Latus had left her marriage. She was on a business trip to the East Coast, savoring her freedom, attending a work conference, when she received a call from her sister Jane asking if she'd heard from Amy. Immediately, Janine's blood ran cold. Amy was missing.

This book is so important. As I read about the victimization of these two women and the untimely death/murder of one of them, I realized with great sadness that this could be ANY woman I know. It's important because this sort of thing can, and does, live right under our noses and we often miss the signs of abuse or, more importantly, the cries for help.

The story is well-told. It is another one that had me riveted from beginning to end.

I found myself praying for all the women out there who are suffering at the hands of abusers...both physical and emotional. I found myself so thankful for the blessings of my own husband who is the absolute opposite of these men. I found myself again thanking God that He charged us with raising four Godly young men who will know how to love, honor, and cherish the women in their lives.

And while I considered NOT posting this review, I found myself again reminded that we MUST not be quiet. We must continue to spread the message that domestic violence is simply not acceptable in any circumstance! And I would be remiss if I didn't share a resource that is available for women who find themselves in the throws of such victimization: 1-800-799-SAFE. For more information, you can also visit Janine's Website. Latus notes several times when family members said to her, "We would've come." It was the old "If only I'd known..."

Whether you read this book or not, please think about the women you know. Reach out. Love one another. Be a friend. And, if you know of someone who is being treated poorly by someone, TALK. You never know when YOU might be the difference...the HOPE for someone in need.

Book Review: What Remains

I have just finished reading the book What Remains by Carole Radziwill. This is a memoir about a girl who is raised in a working-class family and marries Anthony Radziwill, cousin of John Kennedy Jr and his sister, Carolyn.

Carole tells the story of moving from her small town to New York City to find a different life. She ends up working for ABC News and wins Emmy awards for some of her work.

In the midst of her budding career, she meets Anthony and eventually falls in love with him. This leads to a very special friendship with John Kennedy and his wife, Carolyn Bessette. She and Carolyn strike up a friendship that is to be admired. And Carolyn, along with John, are there as Carole helps her husband fight cancer.

The story takes twists and turns through the years of illness. Carole shares, from her vantage point, what it was like when John and Carolyn's plane crashed in the Atlantic just three weeks before she lost her own husband.

This is a short, but powerful, memoir. As I have shared before, this is my favorite genre. I love to read real stories of real people. Radziwill is a very effective story-teller as she describes her move from the working class to the upper class (even royalty). I found the book very easy to read. I also found myself wanting "more" when I got to the end. In my opinion, this is the mark of a great story.

Ultimately, the reader realizes that when all is stripped away...even life itself...what remains is friendship and love.

And that's a lesson worth remembering.

You've Got to Look at the Whole Picture

Yesterday I received an email from my Father-in-Law. When I get mail in my hotmail box, there is a pane on the opening page that shows which of my contacts have sent me mail. This includes the name of the sender and the subject line from the email. My FIL's said his name then the subject said, "From Dad--Not Good News".

I can honestly tell you that my heart stopped. I stared at the opening pane for a long time not wanting to click into the email to read the "not good news". I actually considered calling my DH and seeing what was going on. I didn't want to read! I imagined all sorts of bits of "bad news" that he could be sending: health of someone in the family, death of someone in the family or friends, loss of something, etc.

After a very long few minutes, I collected myself and clicked the email open. It was only then I realized that I was only seeing PART of the subject line. In it's entirety the subject line read: "From Dad--Not Good News About Society and Young Girls". It was an article he had come across that talked about what is happening in our culture with girls and their sexual development because they are being "objectified" and "sexualized" from a very young age via media, pop "idols", toys, and teen magazines.

So, yes, it is "BAD news". It makes me quite SAD to be honest. BUT it isn't what I was expecting when I first glanced at the email's subject line. And once again, I was reminded that I need to look at the whole picture before we jump to conclusions, push the panic button, or start the stream of worry and "what if's".

And I am reminded of two of my favorite verses about this very thing:

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with
thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. (Phil. 4:6)

AND

Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life ? (Matt. 6:27)

Now THAT'S a whole picture

Thursday Thirteen--Anniversary Edition

In honor of our 20th Anniversary yesterday, I decided to follow in my SIL,Heather's footsteps. She had a lovely "Thursday Fifteen" post on their anniversary. I've decided to do a "Thursday Twenty" in honor of ours. Thanks, Heather, for your inspiration!!

1987 - We are married and go away for a QUICK two days in my hometown before returning to Kentucky where DH was in seminary and I taught Kindergarten in a small private school.

1988 - DS 1 is born 9 months and ten days after our wedding. He is a true "Honeymoon Baby". We LOVE being parents, however and are excited when DH graduates and we head back home to Florida to be with all the doting Grandparents and Uncles.

1989 - DS 2 is born just 15 months after DS 1. DH begins his job as an associate pastor in the church in which I grew up.

1990 - DH and our boys move to our first "parsonage". He is the senior pastor of a small country church. Through circumstances that were beyond our control, we move to another church only six months later. I teach first grade in the public school system for one year before I decide to stay home for a while. DH and I begin taking a Foster Parenting course.

1991 - DH and I have our first Foster Child, Mallory. Mallory was 19 months old when she came to live with us. We quickly fall in love and enjoy seeing the many ways she grows each and every day. We are only two weeks away from adopting her, when a Grandparent shows up and "claims" her. It is a VERY sad time for us. By the end of 1991, we have three more Foster Children: Tiffany (age 3), William (age 2) and Katherine (age 9 mos.). DH also is given a trip to the Holy Land this year. It is a blessing for him to be able to go walk where Jesus walked.

1992 - Our Foster children have to move and we decide that we will put that phase of our lives on "hold". I go back to work as a Kindergarten teacher in a small private school with preK. It is so exciting because I am able to take DSs 1 and 2 with me. We go on a vacation to Kentucky to visit relatives and see Uncle Dan.

1993 - DH continues pastoring our little "country" church in Tampa. I have the opportunity to teach DS 1 in Kindergarten. This is a sort of "legacy" as DH's Mother was HIS K teacher. It is very special for me to be able to teach DS 1. We take our first "real" family vacation to North Carolina. It is a great time of fun and adventure for us.

1994 - DS 3 comes along and we move to a larger church. We are so blessed because all of our moves have been in my hometown and only one hour away from DH's hometown. Our children are able to grow up around their Grandparents and other relatives. I move to the Public School System and teach First Grade in the school where DS 1 goes.

1995 - The older boys begin playing soccer and DH helps coach. We spend many many weekends on the soccer fields. Both DS 1 and 2 go to school where I teach which is only two miles from our house. It is a blessing to us all.

1996 - With DH's support, I finish my Master's degree. It is exciting for me as I never expected to do this. DH also finished his doctorate. We take a family trip to the mountains and end up staying at the Ritz Carlton in Atlanta. (Someday I'm going to have to blog about this one...it is a VERY funny story!)

1997 - I change schools and move to an inner city school. This is quite an eye-opener for me as I had been working in a great suburban school. I realize that THIS is my calling in education...working with those who are in poverty and struggling. As I seek new knowledge, DH continues to support us at home. We are blessed because our parsonage is right next to the church which gives him some flexibility.

1998 - We learn that we are expecting DS 4. While I spent time in shock, DH was so very supportive as we planned to expand our family. We begin a new contemporary service at church and are laying the groundwork to expand the ministry. It is a VERY exciting time as we continue to connect with our community. DH takes a mission trip to India.

1999 - Just after the birth of DS 4, DH is called to the superintendent's office and told that he is moving. We are SHOCKED. Before we leave our church, however, DH and DS 2 take a mission trip to Hungary and Romania. This is DH's second time there. We moved to DH's hometown to start a new church. Again, we are blessed, because our children are near their Grandparents.

2000 - DH, the boys, and I ring in the new millenium with little fanfare. They love their new neighborhood and schools. DSs 2 and 3 get to come to school with me which is, again, a blessing. My first book is published. We take the boys on a family vacation to Atlanta, Georgia.

2001 - Our new church is gaining momentum and things are "hopping" in our world. Of course, 9/11 hits us all hard. We are shocked just before Christmas when DH is called to the superintendent's office and told that he is being moved to a church that is "in trouble". My second book is published and I begin a relationship writing teacher's guides for a national publishing company that continues today.

2002 - We begin our new year in a church that is 35 miles from our home. They have had some turbulence over the previous months, and DH is called in to help bring some healing. We are blessed beyond measure with this appointment (although I didn't go happily). We also take our first family cruise for my brother's wedding in November. We have a wonderful time!

2003 - We decided to take another family cruise for our summer vacation. This time we do the Western Caribbean. It is a wonderful time of renewal for all of us. DS 2 is homeschooled this year by DH. DS 2 has a back problem and DH helps take on the responsibility of seventh grade. It is a blessing, in the end, as DS 2 is really able to gain some life experiences.

2004 - DH is with me as I receive the honor of being our District Teacher of the Year. His support is such an important part of what I do. This Summer is one that will live forever in our memory. Things are moving along with the church. It is growing and healing has taken place. In August, however, Hurricane Charley moved through the area and the church suffered devastating loss. It is flooded and in the end there is over 2 million dollars of damage to the building. DH and I learn exactly what it means to BE the church for others.

2005 - DH continues to rebuild the church bit by bit. The process, however, is very slow. It requires a great deal of time from him. DS 2 goes on another mission trip. This time to the Bahamas. DH begins more and more travel to coach and consult with churches around the country.

2006 - DSs 1 and 2 go on a mission trip to Belize. We find ourselves at a crossroads at the end of the year. DH is traveling more and more. By November of this year, we know that DH will become a full time consultant and leave the full time church ministry. It is a transition that will be different for each member of our family. DH surprises me with a fantastic trip to New York City. Our first trip alone as a couple to anywhere significant. We have a wonderful time! Our last day at our church would be New Year's Eve. My third book is published just before this.

2007 - DH and I go on our Anniversary Cruise---a real blessing. I think as we watch our boys grow and our lives change around us, we continue to realize just how special it is to be able to be together. And as we celebrated with our quiet dinner last night, I found myself continually thanking God for such a precious gift!

Happy Anniversary, Again, Hon! I LOVE YOU!!

It's Quiet....except....

It's 11:31pm on August 14th and all's quiet in my house. The crickets and frogs are singing outside, but inside it's peaceful. Except in my mind.

There are a million things floating around inside my head. Thoughts of things I have to do, places I have to go, people I have to see, along with other minutia that is really too trivial to mention. In the midst of all my thoughts, my mind drifts back to this night 20 years ago.

I wonder...

• was I lying awake on my bed wondering about the next day?


• were there butterflies in my stomach?


• did I forget any important details?


• how did I sleep on that night?


• what was it that made me feel I was so "old" and mature?

These, and at least a hundred more questions are relevant to ask on this night as I look back twenty years. For, you see, it was the night before my wedding.

Twenty years

So much time has passed and so many wonderful memories have been made. I only WISH I could remember every single detail of that most special wedding eve and the day that followed!

If you've read my blog lately, you know I've been watching my boys grow their wings and prepare to leave our nest. I wonder if my own Mother had similar feelings as I truly "flew her nest" on that day. I'm certain many thoughts and questions passed through her mind. She is, after all, a Mother. And I'm guessing my Father had similar moments...because he is a Father.

No, I can't recall many of the details. But I DO know that walking down the aisle that day to marry my "forever friend", who would become such a wonderful husband and father, is by far the BEST decision I EVER made!

I hope to post some more before and after pictures later. For now, I'll have to leave you with one I posted last year on our anniversary...Here we are 20 years ago...so young...so naive, yet so in love!

Happy Anniversary, Hon!! I LOVE YOU MORE TODAY than EVER!!

There are wings EVERYWHERE!

As I drove home, exhausted, from my first day at work I received a call from my DH. He told me that DS 4 was going to "go spend the night at Max's" house. I'm sure the look on my face, if he could have seen it, spoke volumes. You see Max is not someone we've known more than a week. In fact, I don't know him at all. DS 2 does. He and DS 4 met Max and his Mother last week at Soccer Camp. They live in a very nice housing development about 25 minutes up the road from us.

Max came and played at my house last week...and I was OK with that. I like it when they come to us. Quite frankly, I like my "chicks to be IN the nest"....OUR nest.

I spoke with Max's Dad last week in a frenzied phone call where both boys "put their parent on the phone" so that we could figure out how they could get together. He was nice. But I still didn't know his name...only "Max's Dad". And, until last night, I didn't know Max's Mom's name either.

DH has talked with both parents more than I as he has been home these past two weeks being the "house parent" while I have been preparing for the start of school. I don't know WHEN in our 20 years of marriage I learned this, but here's what I know: Men simply don't worry about little "insignificant" details like we do. I know my DH is no exception as I have heard it again and again from wives and mothers everywhere. Maybe we should learn from them.

So, as I coached DS 4 on HOW to spend the night at someone's house via the phone on the drive home, I also gave DH my list of things I wanted to know. I'm quite aware that he's a capable Father...just sometimes our expectations are different.

When I got home, in the middle of a horrible thunder storm, Max's Mom called and said, "I made a wrong turn getting to your house." I really wanted to reply "I don't even KNOW where YOUR house is!" But, as the rainwater on my hair and skin began to dry I gave her directions from where she made the wrong turn.

The rain continued outside as I looked at the storm that had happened inside during the day. It seems that DS 1 is trying to fit in all the things he "needs to do" before leaving for boot camp. He set up the entire band in my living room...there wasn't ONE place for me to invite this Mother to come and sit in my house! I reminded myself that I like having the CHICKS in MY nest---even if it means there are musical instruments everywhere.

I told myself that she wouldn't want to drag her family into the house anyway in this downpour. So DS 4 and I met her in the front of the house. She and I stood under the umbrella and introduced ourselves to one another. I gave her all the phone numbers. I watched my DS 4 excitedly jump into her Lexus SUV and I waved goodbye.

And I realized that ALL my boys WILL have to spread their wings and fly one day. In fact, in one way or another they are all at some stage of "flying". And this is how it starts, one trip away from home at a time, until they will finally not be here anymore. And I am certain that I'll be LONGING for more indoor storms.

And while I'm happy for them, I'm a bit sad for me. Now I think I'M raining on the inside!

Nice Award

Sweet Carrie has given me this new award. I love it cause it just "feels good"! I love visiting Carrie's blog as she inspires me. She is a homeschooling Mom who cooks great meals with her family and shares them via her blog. She has a new baby...and she keeps going and going. Carrie, I'm so glad our blogging paths crossed!! Now, about this award:

"This award is for those bloggers who are nice people; good blog friends and those who inspire good feelings and inspiration. Also for those who are a positive influence on our blogging world. Once you've been awarded please pass it on to others who you feel are deserving of this award."

Once again, I find myself a bit perplexed about who to give this award. Each person whose blog I read IS a NICE person. I decided to pick out a few who personify nice and inspire me regularly. I'm passing this award to:

Lauren who exudes nice in almost every blog entry over at her place.

Daisy who is so good about sending sweet emails at just the perfect times! She is also a wonderful inspiration to me when she posts on her blog and comments on mine.

Leigh Ann is also an inspiration to me. And just go look at her sweet children...I'll bet you'll say, "How NICE!"

KT also inspires me regularly. She is someone who can and does always find the lighter side of life and enjoys her family.

Stacy has a great blog. She loves her sweet dog, Vader. It's a joy to visit her place. And she always shares a smile when she shares here.

Melli is such a teriffic cheerleader for the blogosphere. She is constantly encouraging and shares her smile with others via comments and posts. It's a joy knowing her as a cyber friend...I can't WAIT to meet her IRL in October!

I hope you'll go visit these wonderful bloggers! And, ladies, THANK YOU for being so VERY NICE!!

Worth Linking and Looking....

Sally at Enjoy the Journey linked to this video tonight via her friend Amy's Humble Musings. It's AMAZING! Please watch all the way to the end to really "get it".

Book Review: The Poisonwood Bible

This book, by Barbara Kingsolver, has popped up on several blogger reading lists this Summer, I knew that I had to put it on mine. The thing that convinced me to finally pick it up and read it was my DS 1's friend, Leah who told me that this was her Mother's favorite book...and her "second favorite" behind Life of Pi. So I read both at Leah's (and her Mother's) suggestion.

I found The Poisonwood Bible a lot to swallow. It was not an "easy" read by any means. There were moments when I considered scrapping my reading, but pushed on. This book, although a narrative work of fiction, really is not linear it its storyline. There IS the linear storyline woven into the narration of the four daughters and wife of a fanatical Baptist missionary to the Congo. It is the story of the undoing of a family and their eventual reconstruction (according to the book jacket). Interspersed in the actual story are their thoughts, feelings, musings, and vignettes to explain to the reader, life in the Congo in the 1960's (and up through the 80's).

The Father, Nathan, is an arrogant man who never really gets to know the people in the area that he is serving. Thus, he never properly learns the language and yells from the pulpit: "Tata Jesus is Bangala," Though his intention is to tell the African people "Jesus is precious," his mispronunciation means "Jesus is poisonwood." Thus, the girls summize that his is the Poisonwood Bible.

It is a poignant story of faith gone awry...and yet, somehow remaining in each woman represented. Though each one handles her faith differently and in some cases, irreverently. It is also a reminder that when faith wanes or is tainted, the holes that are left must be filled with something...a cause, grace, forgiveness, bitterness, hurt, anger...something.

It is also a story of survival in the midst of some very grim circumstances. It reminds us that the oppressed CAN sometimes get away from the oppressor. It takes strength, yes. But it can be done.

I love the line spoken by Rachel, the eldest daughter who is quite self-absorbed, when she reflects on her life in Africa: "You can't just sashay into the jungle aiming to change it all over to the Christian style, without expecting it to change you right back." She goes on to note that it's not so different with those trying to set up business on this continent. She continues: "If it was as easy as they thought it was going to be, why, they'd be done by now, and Africa would look just like America with more palm trees."

And Adah, who is the twin of Leah, reminisces and wonders "what Bible my father wrote in Africa. We came in stamped with such errors we can never know which ones made a lasting impression."

While I didn't think it would, I DO think that Kingsolver's book has made a lasting impression on me for it caused me to once again look at the need that is so great in our world...and yet goes unmet each and every day. And we, who are wealthy and have much, try to fill needs with what WE think is "right". Yet, I think we sometimes miss the boat in doing this. It is critical that we get to know the people...listen to them...love them...and meet them where they are. For me, the bottom line is: I'm glad I "pushed" through.

Happy Reading!

Sunday Seven

This week I have much for which to be thankful. I've decided to call this "The Birthday Edition Plus" since it was a week of birthdays and celebrations.

1. DS 3 turned 13 earlier this week. We celebrated last weekend with family in Tampa. I had to leave to go to a conference on his actual date, but DH made him his favorite seafood feast. I am pretty sure they had a good time. In the picture on the right, he's getting ready to have cake with my niece, C.

2. Tuesday was my birthday (and my Stepmother's--but that's coming). As I noted earlier, I was at a conference on that day. It was so nice that my colleagues from work acknowledged my day in such special ways. They also took me to my very favorite restaurant. It was a wonderful evening (if you have to be away from family).

3. I noted that I received special birthday greetings from family via email. I also must note that I received some "surprise" email. A friend who moved away three years ago remembered it and sent me special greetings. It was VERY special to me. And it was a reminder of just how many times I totally forget special days and events of those in my life. I know I need to do better at this.

4. DS 1 left for his whole processing for National Guard on Thursday. He was sworn in and is now "official". He'll ship out Oct. 24th. He knows I'm "being a Mom" with a bit of worry...but I also hope he knows that I continue to be so proud of the young man he is becoming.

5. Saturday night a surprise that had been brewing for almost a month came to fruition. My brother, G and his wife, C worked very hard to get people invited and the decorations up. Tonight, we celebrated my Stepmother's 60th birthday with a surprise party. She was definitely surprised when she arrived at the club and the pool area was surrounded by her family and friends!

6. While we waited for CC to arrive, I had the chance to snap this picture of my four boys. They are, from left to right: DS 2 (18 in three weeks), DS 4 (8yo), DS 3 (13yo), and DS 1(19yo). I am constantly amazed at just how fast they have and continue to grow! I am so blessed by each of them.

7. It's always a better party when my brother, Dan comes to town! He came from Texas to surprise C for her birthday. It's always nice to visit with him because he always brings an extra laugh or two to the party!

Update from my World...

I've been a little hit or miss with blogging lately. It simply has been BUSY around here. I go back to work (officially) on Monday, but this week has been filled with conferences and preparations for it. I love this time of year, but it is also a time when I find myself a bit rattled with my job.

As I mentioned earlier, DS 1 enlisted in the National Guard this week. He was officially sworn in yesterday. DH was able to go and watch it. DS 1 promised me a picture I could put on my blog...and I'll do so as soon as I get it. He's excited and at peace with his decision which is all I could ask. He ships out in October for basic training in Missouri. From there, he'll spend time in Texas. Then, he'll return home for school. He'll get to come home for a week at Christmas...thank goodness.

I had an interesting thing happen yesterday. I was driving to work and noticed cars hitting a book and papers flying out of it. As I passed it, I realized it was someone's Daytimer. Now, I'd be SUNK if I lost mine, so I turned my car around and recovered what I could from the street. Unfortunately, I had to stand there and watch cars and trucks run over this thing and occasionally take receipts and papers with them (via their grills).

Anyway, the book contained a ton of business cards, some insurance cards and some important numbers from some business transactions, but no REAL contact information for the owner. I was able to find a name via the insurance card, but still not contact number. I called information with no luck. Finally, I found this man's name on one of the business cards inside and called that number--only to find out that he didn't work there!

They did, however, give me another contact and I tried that. Still without success. Finally, I called the first number back and was told that this person was a friend of the boss. They took my information and it wasn't long until this frantic man called me.

He said he had cancelled all his credit cards and he couldn't believe that someone would actually return the book. I explained that, unfortunately, there were no credit cards in there that I saw...but that I'd be happy to return the book to him.

I don't know if it was worth saving his business card contacts or not. I felt horrible that there were more valuable things (like credit cards) missing. I hoped that he didn't think that I took them...actually I told him it was a good thing that he cancelled them.

Last night, I dropped it off at a restaurant nearby for him to pick up. I talked to him on the phone one more time and he said, "I'm a landscaper...if you ever need any landscaping, I'll give you a really good deal!" It's funny because I REALLY DO need a landscaper!

I don't know if we'll be able to use this business or not...but I do know that I felt better knowing that I didn't just leave someone's things in the middle of a road to get scattered about like junk.

I'm off to work for a while then out to do some "family stuff". I'll check back in tomorrow.

Blessings...

I am SO BLESSED!! I am out at a conference for Literacy Coaches until tomorrow, so I haven't really been reading and commenting too much.

As I told you in my last post, one son turned 13. Also in the past week, one son has decided to enlist in the National Guard (yes, we've had all the conversations you might be thinking about). And while we are (OK I am) a bit worried about his decision, we are so proud of him as he takes this next step in his life's journey. The other three will start school next week...one an 8th grader, one a Senior, and one a 3rd grader.

As DS 4 noted on our way into church on Sunday, "Mom your two boys are sure growing up fast." I noted that I have FOUR boys. He agreed, but reminded me that the first two are much closer to the edge of our nest than he and DS 3 are. He's right.

Add to that mix, one EMOTIONAL mid-40's Mother and you can imagine the roller coaster of thoughts and feelings making their way through my heart and head right now.

Today I realized, once again, just how blessed I am in SO MANY ways.

It is my birthday. My bosses (who are here with me) and friend, D knew it and told me this morning that since I can't be with my family, we are going to dinner at one of my favorite restaurants in all of Florida. I am blessed that it's not just work for me, it is so much more.

I received two VERY special eCards today. The first was a total surprise. My blogging friend, Danielle sent me a card that made me laugh out loud here in my hotel room. I needed it at the precise moment that I clicked on it. Then, my brother Greg and his wife Christie sent me a beautiful card with the PERFECT sentiment inside.

Shortly after I dried my eyes from reading Greg's card, my son Matt called to say, "I wanted to wish my Mama a Happy Birthday!" I am well aware that there are many 17 (almost 18) year olds out there who just wouldn't remember--or care as much as he does. He is taking my 13 yo son to his first concert up in Tampa tonight.

In the meantime, in conversation with my DH, he is helping DS 1 prepare for his military paperwork. I am so thankful that my DH is level-headed and can be the "thinker" as DS takes this important step...because, I am operating pretty strictly on emotion right now in this arena.

And, it's as I consider these, all the blessings in my life that I realize just HOW much God loves me. And I am so so thankful! I only hope that I can "pay it forward" because that's really what it's all about.

He turned 13 yesterday...

And I am SO PROUD of him!

I didn't get to post on his birthday, but DS 3 has done so much in his 13 years. Just this summer, he has learned more about flying (which is obviously his passion) and SCUBA.

DS 3 is a great student, brother, and son. And, like all of my boys, he makes me proud.

I love you, son.

Friday Feast

Since it's been a while since I've "feasted", I thought I'd try and get back in the swing of things!!

Appetizer: On a scale of 1 to 10 with 10 being highest, how polite are you?

I think I am pretty polite, most of the time. So I'd have to say an 8. There ARE those moments when I get in a snit over something and then, all politeness goes right out the window. I'm not too proud of those moments, but they DO happen to me.

Soup: What was the last thing that made you laugh out loud?

When I was at work yesterday, the air was broken. I worked for about 2 hours in my office; I called it "my hot box". When I came out, I must have looked awful because the secretary looked at me and said, "Now that'll convince you that you don't want to go to hell, right??" {As if I needed any convincing.}

Salad: Who is your favorite cartoon character?

By far it has to be The Cat in the Hat because for me, he represents all that is "right" in the area of education and learning and children's literature. And Dr. Seuss is an author that appeals to children all over (and grown-ups, too).

Main Course: Tell about the funniest teacher you ever had.

I loved my first College Education Professor, Dr. Little. She absolutely used to get into stitches in our class. She loved learning and she loved laughing. She was passionate about education and shared it with everyone. My favorite day was when we set a cassette tape (yes, it was a while ago) with a birthday song for my friend, Beth behind a partial wall in her classroom. About 45 minutes into the class, the song "went off" and shocked us all. She laughed until there were tears coming down her cheeks.

Dessert: Complete this sentence:

I strongly believe that ALL children can learn and have the right to be taught by caring compassionate individuals.

Remember when there were "only" three doors?

As I watch, and listen, to my older boys and their friends decide their career paths, school paths, and life paths, I am continually struck by the fact that things have changed drastically over the last 20 years.

I remember being at this juncture of my life. I remember choosing a college to attend and selecting a career path. Neither were easy choices, but they were made from a smaller pool of options.

In addition to all the traditional choices for where to go and what to do at the end of high school and beyond, there are a multitude of options open to young people today. For school, you can choose traditional or nontraditional options. You can learn online or in a classroom. For a career, well the options are unbelievable. There are so many jobs that exist today that weren't even DREAMED about 20 years ago...shoot they didn't even exist 10 years ago!

Thinking back on my own "decision-making" time regarding my career, it just seemed like I had so few choices. And I really didn't even choose to "go through the curtain" on my own. A college advisor, instead, pushed me into Intro to Education and I was immediately hooked. I knew this was my "calling".

Another staggering statistic that is "out there" is that today's college graduates will change CAREERS 7 - 9 times in their lives. CAREERS. That's not just a place of business. It's not shifting within ONE company. Nope. It means they will select "one door" and a few years later could select a completely different one.

I remember the confusion and questions I had with limited options. I can only imagine what it feels like to be at this crossroad in present day. And for those people standing there, including my own sons, I wish you peace as you step forward in your journey.

More Thinking...

In light of my post the other day about the guy at church, I've been especially interested in your feedback via comments. And, of course, I am still reflecting myself. I read, with interest, Danielle's thoughts on a similar (yet different) situation. Danielle brings up some extremely valid points:

If the church is God's home and who are we to determine who is welcome there or not? ...I think it is wrong, wrong, wrong to shun an individual because he/she does not act in accordance with 'mainstream' society...or the protocols put in place by man.

She's right. It's not fair for anyone, including me, to judge a person by his attitudes or actions. And I would never suggest that he doesn't belong in church anymore than me or anyone else there.

I also think, however, that there is a place for instruction. Many many people are totally unaware of social cues and/or how others perceive their actions. And, the more I think of it, the more I am certain that this is as true for you and me as it is for those who appear a bit more "out there" or "different".

My DH has mentioned the distraction of this person, and the perceived need to always add something else at the end of the service, to the pastor. And the pastor agreed that this should not be a frequent event and that it could be a turn-off for visitors and others in attendance.

I also know that this is the type of person that kind of "passes through" churches. You know until they find the next place that will give them a platform on which to be seen and/or heard.

And I know that I, too, have perhaps distracted people from focusing on Christ at times. I am sure I've done some "Spiritual Coin Clinking" of my own.

So, while we wait and see how instruction and enlightening works with the subject of my post in our weekly services, I am going to use this chance for me to get rid of those things I say or do that may distract others from their relationship with God.

Thanks everyone, for your feedback. I'll let you know how it goes.