Finally

Well, it's the last day of the year... I'm just in time to sneak in some of those Christmas and birthday pictures I promised. Happy New Year to you all!!

Ending with a Bang

Little guy has been sick since the day after his birthday... it started out with just a fever, cold, cough, etc. Last night, while getting him ready for bed, I noticed a rash on his chest. I called the doctor immediately and, thankfully, they were able to see him right away. I'm lucky enough that our doctor's office has at least one doctor in the office 7 days a week (including holidays) up until 7pm at night.

Anyway, they did a strep test which came out negative, but because of the rash, he decided to go ahead and treat Chris for scarlet fever (which is closely related to strep). So, he is on antibiotics, is laying low and will be ringing in the new year from home. Poor thing has cabin fever, but thankfully has an onslaught of new games and activities to help him through the day.

I'm not feeling all so grand myself... had to break out the DayQuil at 5:30 this morning. So, we could definitely use some prayers this week.

The Day After the Day After Christmas

I don't know about you, but it feels like Christmas is over. I guess it should since today is the day after the day after Christmas. My first clue that things would be returning to "normal" was when I went to check my email today, it was the first time I did not have 80 unread messages from my closest retailers trying to entice me to buy things I do not need or want at a bargain price. Ahhh.... the bliss of normal emails in my inbox.

Chris woke up with a fever and a nasty cough. I'm just so glad it happened today and not yesterday on his 6th birthday. I have a couple of pictures I'll try to upload later today. So, now that I will be staying home from church, I plan on cleaning up this house and trying to find a home for all the new stuff that we have been blessed with.

My awesome hubby gave me a journal and a Beth Moore devotional book as part of my Christmas gift. I love the journal because it has many inspirational scriptures and quotes. Here's one that I thought I'd share with you:

"God will never, never, never let us down if we have faith and put our trust in Him. He will always look after us. So we must cleave to Jesus. Our whole life must simply be woven into Jesus." Mother Teresa

Happy 6th Birthday Chris!!

My little guy turns six years old today. Time is flying by! Seems like just yesterday I unexpectedly had a c-section the day after Christmas! Well.. I knew I would need to have a c-section because Chris was breech and I had developed high blood pressure the week before Christmas, but we had a planned c-section scheduled for New Years Eve. The doctor was monitoring my blood pressure closely... of course it was high... it WAS the week before Christmas... I worked (from home) up until Christmas Eve, we had a house full of people both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and I was giving birth for the first time... yes... I was stressed and had high blood pressure... go figure.

So, after coming back from dropping off my Oma Nettie at her house in South Jersey, and enjoying 3 delicious slices of Sicilian pizza from my favorite pizza place down there, Steve & I drove home. The doctor told me that I should go to a drug store to use one of those devices to check my blood pressure that day since their office would still be closed. So, we went to the first store and the reading was high... went to another and it gave us a totally different number.. went to a third and still another bizzarre reading. So, we looked at each other and said, "Well.. we have 2 choices. Go home and see the doctor tomorrow, or go to the hospital and have them give us an accurate reading." I honestly didn't think I would be able to sleep that night worried about it, so we went to the hospital.

The place was empty as you would expect the day after Christmas and they took me in, checked my blood pressure and quickly told me that it was way too high and that I would be having my c-section that night. I felt comfortable because I knew my doctors were great and that everything would be ok... that was until they told me that NONE of the OB/GYNs I had spent the last 9 months visiting were "On call" that day and that a complete stranger would be performing my c-section! Excuse me!?!? A complete stranger... not comfortable with that... but the baby had to come.

Then they asked me if I had anything to eat in the last few hours... hello! OF course... I'm a very pregnant lady who has been under STRESS.. yes... 3 slices of the most mouth watering pizza had been consumed a few hours ago... thus, they had to put off the surgery for a few hours until I fully digested my dinner.

Finally, the time had come and they wheeled me to that FREEZING operating room... a room full of strangers, except for my hubby who held my hand and stroked my forehead for what seemed like HOURS in the O/R. It really didn't last that long, but for those of you who have never experienced the joy of having someone slice you open while you are awake and talking and joking about their Christmas' while operating on you... take it from me... it was nerve wracking. They even give you the option of whether you would like a mirror to watch the surgery... WHAT!??! Are you nuts?? I can't stand the slice of blood... and you think I want to watch you slice me open?? Didn't you hear me say I had pizza not long ago.. .I don't want to lose my dinner so to speak while giving birth. Thanks, but no thanks... Can't you just put me to sleep and wake me up when it's over?!?!

At last, they pulled little Christopher out and I heard his sweet cry. Daddy got to hold him first because of the c-section and the rest is history. Our beautiful, very loved baby had finally arrived the day after Christmas.

I wanted to write this all down for Chris someday, although I feel like I'm rambling. Chris, know that Mommy & Daddy love you so much and we thank God for you! You are our little miracle baby!!

Happy Birthday big boy. His only request for today is to be home... to have mommy bake him a cake and to have lunch at the Chatterbox, a 50s style burger joint. Good times, my friends!

Christmas Song

My husband and I have been collecting Christmas music for years. We both had impressive individual collections before we got married, so now that we've joined forces, it has gotten large. Put it this way, they are stored in the garage in a big bin. We seem to add at least 4 or 5 new CDs to our collection each year.

We typically "exchange" these CDs a few weeks before Christmas so we can obviously enjoy them in the days before Christmas. My husband purchased several CDs for me this year and I'm sharing a song from one of my new favorites, When Love Was Born, by various Christian artists. Here is the title song, When Love Was Born, by Mark Schultz. If you are looking for a good Christmas CD or a last minute gift idea, I highly recommend it. The CD also has a great song by former American Idol contestant Chris Sligh about soldiers who are away from their families at Christmas.

Enjoy!

Winter is Here!

Chris woke up announcing that today is the first day of Winter. Yes it is - and the snow on the ground proves it. We had about 8 -10 inches that fell between Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning. It's always so beautiful to watch from inside the comforts of your nice, cozy home. Not so nice if you have to drive in which we thankfully did not.

I was very concerned that my husband would have to drive to church on Sunday but because the weather was so bad, they made the decision to cancel all services. I think it would have been way too dangerous for people to try to get there... we live in a very mountainous part of the state and it takes time for these roads to be treated in a storm.

So, we spent 3 full days (Steve was off on Friday) together as a family. The highlights included hot chocolate, sleigh riding, eating tons of sugar cookies, playing board games , hours of entertainment with our Wii, and working on puzzles together. My husband has caught the "bejeweled" bug for those of you on Facebook and have played that one minute, can't get enough, game. It is addicting.

Today starts the final countdown to Christmas and my little guy's 6th birthday which is the day after Christmas. You can't even imagine the fore-thought that has to go into his birthday each year. I try really hard to get super organized for it because it's not like I can run out the day before his bday for any last minute items or balloons, a cake, etc. (Christmas Day). To add insult to injury, he wants to spend his birthday here at home, but now I hear there may be another storm coming and we are going to be in South Jersey for Christmas...so I have to bring all the birthday preparations to South Jersey... just in case! Can you imagine getting snowed in and not having his bday gifts or decorations with me? It would not be pretty, people.

I'm not sure how much opportunity I will have to blog... but will try at least one more time to wish you all a very Merry Christmas!

Ready for the Storm

So, we are getting ready for what the weatherman is calling " a big one"... a snowstorm that is. We stocked up on milk and eggs, and the REAL necessities... chocolate and chips. Unfortunately we had to cancel our plans to drive south to see my father-in-law, but we'll get to spend Christmas with him which will be great.

In the meantime, we are getting ready for the bad weather and looking forward to spending some cozy time together as a family.

Be safe everyone!

Ditto

Thought this was funny...

She Lost That Lovin' Feeling

Nothing says Merry Christmas like a grumpy cashier at Wal-Mart. I had to run there this morning to pick up a few things for Chris' upcoming "holiday" party at school (God forbid they use the word Christmas in school.. but that's another story). It didn't take me long to grab the few items I needed and I made a bee-line for the express lane. In keeping with Wal-Mart's tradition... they only had one express lane open, 4 regular lanes open and about 23 lanes closed.

The line in front of me was short so I was glad. The lady in front of me obviously was squeezing in some last minute shopping and had a few mid-sized gifts and a big bag of dog food. I thought nothing of it as she clearly had less than 10 items. I always count.. isn't that terrible... as if I would actually speak up and give someone grief if they had 12 or 15 items in their cart.

Anyway, it finally was my turn and the cashier didn't even greet me. So, I gave her my most cheery "Hello.. how are you?" She sort of grunted a reply and then she went on to complain how the woman in front of me had large items and how she was sick and tired of people with large items coming through the express lane. I was taken back and told her, "but at least she only had 8 items... the sign says express lane for 10 items or less. She clearly had less." The cashier did not want to hear it. Apparently there is some unspoken (and unwritten) law in her mind that you can not check out a large item in the express lane. That was news to me. Perhaps I'm not savvy in that regard... or just plain didn't care up until now.

The point is... this cashier clearly wasn't in the Christmas spirit. No joy.. no love. I told her that Wal-Mart should be glad people are buying big items. She didn't like that. Oh well... perhaps I'll call the customer satisfaction survey line and tell them about my experience. I think I owe it to them. Merry Christmas from Wal-Mart.

What Kind of Gift?

I have a lot of friends who are out of work this Christmas... the economy is in the toilet and there are lots of families struggling.. really struggling. I remember a couple of years back when my husband was looking for work... all I wanted to give him for Christmas was a great job. So, I'm very grateful this year that he has a job, but my heart goes out to my friends who are still waiting on the Lord for this for their spouses.

So, what can we give or do for those of our friends in need this Christmas? Obviously, pray for them... but maybe we can make an extra effort to keep our ears open for jobs in their field... or to send them an email of encouragement. Perhaps you can introduce them to someone who works in the same field, or a recruiter that you know. They say that getting a job is mostly about networking and "who you know" as opposed to "what you know." Maybe when you pray for your friend you can ask God to help you in directing them to the right people. Take your friend and their spouse out for coffee. This can be an extremely stressful time on a marriage and guys need other guys to encourage them!!

I hope this didn't come off as being preaching or anything... I just wish I had jobs to hand out as Christmas gifts this year. Maybe I need to go back into recruiting... I think it's in my blood.

Saturday Funday

We had such a nice weekend. We took Christopher to a Santa Train ride right here in Hackettstown. The ride was about 1 1/2 hours. They had carolers, Mrs. Claus, Elves, and of course, Santa himself. Chris was wide-eyed and excited about the whole experience. It was his first time on a NJ transit train and to have an opportunity to sit with Santa and tell him what he wanted for Christmas made his day. Here's a video clip that my hubby put together.



Later that day we went to First A/G in Rockaway to see a Living Nativity and also had a chance to catch up with my good friends from college, Jerry & Diane, who attend that church. Chris loved the nativity scene. It was freezing that night, but we were bundled up and enjoyed all the music and acting (and cookies & hot chocolate!). They did a great job.

What I loved most about this weekend was the memories I hope we are creating for Chris. We did some baking, sang Christmas songs and read the Christmas story to him. It was a much needed family bonding time and I know I'll always remember it.

Most ________

In your senior year of high school, most schools have the students vote for the Most something... Most Popular, Most Likely To Succeed, etc. Although those honors were not bestowed on me in a formal setting, I think the most appropriate title for me would be "Most Likely To Fall Down A Flight of Stairs". My sister and brother would endorse this for sure. I always seem to fall. I fell outside my sisters house 3 days before my wedding. I fell down some stairs at my friend's house when I was a few months pregnant (thankfully everything was ok). I fall every Christmas... not on Christmas... a few days before, a few days after... but sometime during the month of December. In fact, my sister has a video of one our Christmas' where I walk into my mom's kitchen and I had stated that I just had fallen down the stairs in our house!

Yesterday was my lucky day. I fell down the carpeted stairs leading to our front door. Not a big fall... four steps... but enough to embarrass me in front of my son and hubby... and enough to make me laugh out loud in my car an hour later realizing that I had done it again! EVERY YEAR. Maybe I should wish for a new set of legs for Christmas to stop me from falling. What am I going to do when I'm old? I have no excuse right now. I'm young and I fall.. this has been going on for at least 30 years.. I'm not kidding LOL. And no.. there is nothing wrong with me physically.. remember, there is a reason why my name is not Grace... I am not graceful.

Oh well... at least I didn't get hurt.

It Will All Be Over When Jesus Comes Out....

I almost laughed out loud when I actually uttered those words a few weeks ago about half-way through the Christmas Spectacular. Those of you who have been following my blog know that we took my son to the Radio City Christmas show recently. It had been many years since I went to the show, and I must say, it still is amazing. I don't know how the Rockettes can kick their legs the way they do for 1 1/2 hours.. not to mention changing costumes a billion times.

Chris was mesmerized... he was so into it. He was sitting in his aisle seat, clutching his souvenir popcorn tin (which we inadvertently left behind after the show!) taking in everything. I was so pleased that he was finally at the age to sit still and watch it... and then it happened.

I knew I was in trouble when he polished off the last kernel of popcorn. It was an hour into the show and there was still 1/2 hour to go.... "Mom... is this almost over? Mom... I'm ready to go now. Mom, when will I know when this is over?" And then I uttered my profound statement..
"The show won't be over until Jesus comes out"

Don't even get me started on the fact that 80 minutes of the Christmas show is focused on Santa and the Rockettes and that they squeeze 10 minutes in about Jesus' birth. I know this is not a Sight and Sound production in Lancaster, PA. I just wanted Chris to hang on long enough to get the "real" part of Christmas.

Afterwards I really reflected on that statement... isn't that what we are all waiting for? Jesus' return! This life... all that we know will one day be over when Jesus comes back! As you go about your busy weeks leading up to Christmas and the celebration of his birth, let's be extra thankful and watchful expecting his glorious return!!

Don't Take the Short Cut

I LOVE to bake. I really love to bake. I'm not Martha Stewart by any means because I don't have a creative bone in me... but give me a recipe, a measuring cup, some flour, a baking sheet, my apron and I'm in heaven.

I've had some unexpected stuff happen these last few weeks, which basically has thrown my usual "Christmas To Do List" into complete chaos. I'm running behind and feeling the pressure. Soooooooo.... I decided to take a baking short cut today. Instead of making my tried and true sugar cookie recipe, I used a store-bought (GASP!!) dough. I got out my cookie cutters, had my little work area all set up and away I went.

Words can not express the look on Christopher's face when I pulled the first batch from the oven. "Mommy, what ARE THOSE SUPPOSED TO BE??"

"Um... sugar cookies..."

"What happened to the snowflake, snowman and Christmas tree shapes?

"I don't know... I guess I should have used my other recipe"

It was really a disaster. The next batch was a little better, and by the third batch I was finally satisfied with the product. I was really hoping to use some of these as gifts. Hopefully I won't have any issues when I make the rest of my Christmas cookies. I learned my lesson... Quicker is not always better.

On the plus side, my hubby will be pleased to see the tupperware container in the kitchen that says, "Reject sugar cookies -- please help yourself!"

Christmas Reflection

When I think of Christmas there are several images that come to mind:

My mom cooking her rouladen while listening to Peter Alexander's Christmas Album (German Christmas Music) in the background. Although I didn't understand the majority of the lyrics except for the obvious hymns like Silent Night, it is a part of my soul. Everytime I hear the English equivalent, I have to pause and smile.

A more recent memory is Christmas 2002. I was newly engaged to Steve and I remember sitting in his living room anticipating a trip to visit his family. I remember thinking about that being the last Christmas I would have being single and wondering what my life would be like a year from them... little did I know that I would be welcoming a little baby boy!

I am still trying to formulate Christmas traditions for our family... it's not as easy as it appears. We've spent the majority of our Christmas' at someone else's house so Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are always different.. maybe that in itself is a tradition.

I guess when it all comes down to it, I want Chris to know the "true meaning of Christmas" and that as nice and important as "tradition" is... the most important part of Christmas is remembering and celebrating Jesus' birth. That without him, our world would be lost... that we would be lost.

So, as I'm baking cookies, decorating the tree, buying gifts, sending out cards, I'm looking for small ways to share with Chris about Jesus' love and hope that in years to come, he will remember that Jesus was the center of it all.

Feels Like Yesterday

Steve & I got engaged 7 years ago today... feels just like yesterday! It was a cold, snowy winter day just like today when he got down on his knee (in the snow) and popped the question. I love you honey and I would say yes all over again!

God Thing...

Just wanted share a cool story. While in Florida, we drove by our old home... the one that sold after being on the market for a year and a half. You all were apart of that journey so I thought you'd like to hear about what happened next. Our next door neighbors were outside when our van pulled up to our old house. We didn't intend to stop... just merely to look at the house and continue driving. But, when we saw our neighbors, we jumped out of the car and had quite a little happy reunion. You see, these neighbors were not just friends, but literally a gift from God. They are born again Christians and were such a wonderful support system to Steve & I. They prayed with us over many things through the years and it was just so great to see them.

While discussing the sale of our house with them, they quickly told us that the new home owners are a lovely couple and that the minute that they walked into the home they knew that this was the home for them... They are also born again Christians!!! Isn't that such a God thing?!?! For a year and a half we prayed that God would bring the right people and that the house would be a blessing to the next home owner and that they would sense God's peace as soon as they walked into the house. We prayed and blessed that home when we moved into it and it was so comforting and brought such closure to know that the home is a blessing to another Christian couple.

God cares about the details... he is always faithful.

Rhymes -- New York Edition

On our return trip from Florida to New Jersey, my son was keeping himself busy with a Rhyming Workbook geared towards kids in Kindergarten and first grade. It had very simple instructions and he literally spent hours pouring over these rhymes... he got stuck a few times and then THIS happened...

"Mom... do the words dog and frog rhyme?"

Insert long pause....

Insert Beth mumbling the words out loud, over and over... Dawg and Frog... and thinking to herself that no.. these words do not rhyme... but thinking that they should.

Insert Beth looking at the workbook as if it was written in Greek...

Insert the light bulb going off over Beth's head as she realizes that she's been mispronouncing Dawg (thanks to a well earned New York accent) and it should be Dog so, yes, of course it rhymes with Frog... that New York accent will get you every time.. it's a wonder I ever made it through school.!!

"Yes, Chris.. they DO rhyme!"

For the Moms

Dear Santa,

I've been a good mom all year. I've fed, cleaned and cuddled my children on demand, visited the doctor's office more than my doctor, sold sixty-two cases of candy bars to raise money to plant a shade tree on the school playground. I was hoping you could spread my list out over several Christmases, since I had to write this letter with my son's red crayon, on the back of a receipt in the laundry room between cycles, and who knows when I'll find anymore free time in the next 18 years.

Here are my Christmas wishes:I'd like a pair of legs that don't ache (in any color, except purple, which I already have) and arms that don't hurt or flap in the breeze; but are strong enough to pull my screaming child out of the candy aisle in the grocery store.


I'd also like a waist, since I lost mine somewhere in the seventh month of my last pregnancy.
If you're hauling big ticket items this year I'd like fingerprint resistant windows and a radio that only plays adult music; a television that doesn't broadcast any programs containing talking animals; and a refrigerator with a secret compartment behind the crisper where I can hide to talk on the phone.

On the practical side, I could use a talking doll that says, "Yes,Mommy" to boost my parental confidence, along with three kids who don't fight and two pairs of jeans that will zip all the way up without the use of power tools.


I could also use a recording of Tibetan monks chanting "Don't eat in the living room" and "Take your hands off your brother," because my voice seems to be just out of my children's hearing range and can only be heard by the dog.

If it's too late to find any of these products, I'd settle for enough time to brush my teeth and comb my hair in the same morning, or the luxury of eating food warmer than room temperature without it being served in a Styrofoam container.


If you don't mind, I could also use a few Christmas miracles to brighten the holiday season. Would it be too much trouble to declare ketchup a vegetable? It will clear my conscience immensely. It would be helpful if you could coerce my children to help around the house without demanding payment as if they were the bosses of an organized crime family.

Well, Santa, the buzzer on the dryer is ringing and my son saw my feet under the laundry room door. I think he wants his crayon back.


Have a safe trip and remember to leave your wet boots by the door and come in and dry off so you don't catch cold. Help yourself to cookies on the table but don't eat too many or leave crumbs on the carpet.

Yours Always, MOM...!

(Special thank you to my friend, Dana-Maree for sharing this with me)

Only in Florida

I'm back! I have lots of little tidbits from our trip to Florida... so much fun!! One thing I learned while living down South was that you literally "See it all" while on the roads down there. People don't think twice about loading up their pick-ups with all sorts of items, and then proceed to drive without properly securing them. I believe I already shared about dodging washing machines and mattresses on the highway. Anyway.... the funniest thing that I saw on this particular trip was actually some billboards... the hospitals down there had the following ads:

"Accidents Happen... The ER wait time is now only 24 minutes"

I kid you not... it had a digital clock on it that would update the wait time... you know... just in case you felt like going to the ER. Only in Florida, my friends... only in Florida. Perhaps it helped Tiger Woods the other day when he had to pay a visit to the Orlando hospital. LOL

Happy Thanksgiving

By the time the majority of you will read this it will be the day after Thanksgiving.... I've had such a great day that I didn't get on the computer until late tonight. As you know, I'm blogging from Florida. We are having a great time although our time here went way too fast and we are wrapping up our last few days with my family.

I should be asleep at this point... it's well past 11 pm and the house is dark... everyone is sleeping except for me who has been purchasing Christmas gifts online for the last hour. I absolutely refuse to go to any store on Black Friday... did it once with Shirley (my sister-in-law) and vowed never again.. was a total waste of time (and interrupted sleep!). Anyway, I was very happy with my online purchases, my free shipping and "site to store" pick-up arrangements. It's a beautiful thing people... my blood pressure remains low, no pushing, shoving or disappointment in not finding an item the store that I wasted the gas to drive to. It's all nice and tidy... that is if you know what you are looking for.

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving.. great food, great times with family and friends. We finished off the day with a dip in the hot tub.... the signature of any visit to Florida... nothing better than a cool breeze at night while basking in a hot tub. I miss that!!

Anyway, tomorrow is our last full day in Florida. We are planning on sleeping in and doing some family activities together (perhaps bowling or mini golf -- it's going to be too cold for the beach.) Please pray for safe travels for us as we make our way back up to the chilly northeast.

Before I sign off, just wanted to send off a birthday greeting to my brother, Stephen. We love you!!!

Kid Funny

Yesterday Steve was showing Christopher a ton of old photos that my Dad has displayed around his house....

Steve: "Chris, do you know who this beautiful young lady is in this picture?"

Chris: (emphatically and enthusiastically): "YES! That's Aunt Ruth!"

God bless my husband.. he was trying to get Chris to recognize a picture of me. It was taken at one of my cousin's weddings and, grant it, I had very short hair in the picture as my sister does right now. But still... it was funny. Thanks for trying, honey!

More on our travels to come (obviously we made it safely). We are enjoying good weather, reconnecting with tons of friends and family and just "living the Florida lifestyle". Got to go... lots of beautiful weather to enjoy.

Out Of Time

I seem to have lost about a week on my calendar. Tomorrow we embark on our 2 day journey to Florida (yes, we are driving, not flying). But somehow in the chaos that is my life, I seem to have misplaced last week and the opportunities to put my thoughts together, put them on paper and come up with a plan of action to get us ready for this journey. Thankfully, my husband has been pro-active in getting the car ready for the trip. Little does he know that his "always-ready" wife, is no where near ready... the clock is ticking and I'm feeling the pressure.

The good news about traveling by car is that you can just throw things in... no one is going to weigh my luggage, probe through the contents of my purse or tell me to throw out any liquids. No standing in line for a security check, no "we're sorry for the delays", no turbulence, no lost luggage. I can carry as much junk as I'd like and only have to deal with some stares from my husband and perhaps have to ward off a comment like, "Do we really need to bring all this?" I can handle that.

To further explain my current frenzy, I awoke at 5am this morning in a sheer moment of panic when I realized that I forgot to pack bathing suits! What was I thinking!?!? That should have been the first thing in my suitcase. I just spoke to my sister to ensure that the swimming pool and hot tub are indeed warm! I guarantee we will arrive at my sisters, greet everyone and then dive into the pool and remain there for as long as possible.

So, you have to forgive me for not blogging about the Christmas Spectacular which we attended last Friday, which was ...ummm... Spectacular. I'll have to save that for my return to NJ. We'll be gone for a week and maybe I'll be able to blog once or twice from down south.

Please pray for a safe journey for us and that we all get the rest that we need. I feel a pedicure coming on... ahhhh.....

Twas The Month Before Christmas

A Special Thanks to my Sister-in-Law, Ivette, for this poem...

Twas the month before Christmas when all through our land
Not a Christian was praying nor taking a stand.
See the PC Police had taken away, The reason for Christmas –
no one could say.
The children were told by their schools not to sing, About Shepherds and Wise Men and Angels and things.

It might hurt people's feelings, the teachers would say
December 25th is just a ' Holiday '.
Yet the shoppers were ready with cash, checks and credit
Pushing folks down to the floor just to get it!
CDs from Madonna, an X BOX, an I-pod
Something was changing, something quite odd!

Retailers promoted Ramadan and Kwanzaa
In hopes to sell books by Franken & Fonda.
As Targets were hanging their trees upside down
At Lowe's the word Christmas –
was no where to be found.

At K-Mart and Staples and Penny's and Sears
You won't hear the word Christmas; it won't touch your ears.
Inclusive, sensitive, Di-ver-si-ty
Are words that were used to intimidate me.

Now Daschle, Now Darden, Now Sharpton, Wolf Blitzen
On Boxer, on Rather, on Kerry, on Clinton !
At the top of the Senate, there arose such a clatter
To eliminate Jesus, in all public matter.
And we spoke not a word,as they took away our faith
Forbidden to speak of salvation and grace
The true Gift of Christmas was exchanged and discarded
The reason for the season, stopped before it started.

So as you celebrate 'Winter Break' under your 'Dream Tree'
Sipping your Starbucks, listen to me..
Choose your words carefully,
Choose what you say
Shout MERRY CHRISTMAS,
not Happy Holiday !

What's On Your Agenda?

My son is like me in the fact that he likes to have a plan of action. You can imagine my surprise as he went into our supply closet, grabbed some construction paper, a marker, scissor and tape and headed off into the living room. He grabbed some of his favorite videos and made the following:

The fact that he could copy all of these titles was amazing. If you can't make any sense of it: Videos: Minnesota Cuke and the Search for Noah's Umbrella (love the fact that he ran out of room and had to tape the "ella" to another piece of paper; Saint Nicholas and Heroes of the Bible (all VeggieTale Movies... and, yes, we seriously own each and every one of them).

If you don't know what to get me for Christmas, a case of scotch tape would be great... I seem to have run out...

Sister Visit

Can you tell I've finally been able to post some photos? Here is one of my sister, Ruth with Chris during her visit a few weeks ago. What I appreciate about her so much is that she always takes time to get down on the floor and play games with Chris... tirelessly! Thank you!!!

Just Because

My wonderful husband bought me these recently... just because !!

A New Passion

My son has picked up a new passion, a new love... tattoos. Thankfully he has only discovered the playful, temporary, take a bath and they are gone, tattoos. Here is one he got from "Fire Safety Day" at school. In case you can't make it out it says, Dial 9-1-1 in an Emergency. He also has an assortment of Dinosaur tattoos. Let's just hope that he never tries to wipe one off a person who has a real one (or discovers you can HAVE a real one...)

He's Growing Up!

Chris lost his first tooth tonight. Not sure if the tooth fairy is also suffering during this economic recession... or perhaps she received a government bailout ... she is still negotiating fair market value of the tooth.

Kid Funny

Conversation in my car yesterday:

"Mom, how old do I have to be to drive the car?"
"18"
"18 !?!?!? Why can't I drive it at 13?"
"Because that's the law... you have to be 18 in this state."
"But I'd like to start learning now"
"That would be too dangerous.. besides, your feet couldn't reach the pedals and it's really complicated."

He seemed to take that information but he's been really "observing" me behind the wheel... I'm hiding the keys for sure!

Just Stuff

First, thank you to my dear friends who responded to my last series of blogs.. the comments and the personal emails you sent me were so supporting and encouraging. I thank God for your friendships each day. It never ceases to amaze me how God brings people into your life that have similar experiences and situations. God is good - no matter how crazy life gets.

I've been battling a stomach bug for several days.. just when I think I'm back to normal, it strikes again. It's going to be a very busy 2 weeks leading up to Thanksgiving. We are going to the Christmas Show this Friday and then next Friday we start our road trip down to Florida for Thanksgiving. It's going to be so much fun!

Most of you won't be surprised to find out that I've already started my Christmas shopping. There are some great deals out there already! If you have little kids on your list, I found some great games, books and such at Marshalls for a fraction of the cost at Walmart, Target and Toys R Us. Of course, you need to go there now before all the good stuff is picked over. Trust me.. my Marshalls and TJ Maxx's toy section can look like a tornado passed by at times, but everything is so nicely stocked and organized for Christmas.

I also have purchased some great deals online... shipping is free in most cases. Sign up for email alerts from your favorite stores so you can find out when they have free shipping or at least discounted shipping. With family living all over the country, if I can get free shipping, it's sometimes cheaper than me buying it, wrapping it and mailing it. Although I do love to wrap !

Well, enough words of wisdom from me today. I'm off to get Chris ready for school. Unfortunately I have to miss my amazing and awesome Beth Moore "Esther" Bible Study today. I wish I was feeling better, but I am just not up for the drive today. Oh well. I can watch the video online later.

Have an awesome day everyone!

The Revelation - Conclusion

The bad news was that the blood work revealed that this blood clot had caused my body to activate a blood disorder that to that point had been dormant in my body. It is most likely hereditary. Anti-Thrombin III disorder, to be exact. The long and the short of it is that I will be on an aspirin regimen for the rest of my life (or until Jesus heals me) and, more disturbing, that I would put my life at risk if I were to get pregnant again... insert deep, heart-wrenching gulp followed by (unless Jesus heals me).

I went to 2 different specialists and, unfortunately, they all told me the same thing. With the history of cancer in my family, my age and now my blood disorder, having another baby would be high risk for me and the baby. Do I believe Jesus can heal this disorder and that with him all things are possible? Absolutely. But I also don't want to put my life at risk...especially when I've been blessed with one son who needs me. Yes, adoption is an option, but I'm not there yet.

The blood clot and subsequent events was quite a revelation and drastically changed my life and the scope of what I thought my family would one day look like. Growing up with a brother and a sister I had wanted the same for our son and it makes me sad to think he'll never know that joy. But, God is in control and I can trust in that. I thank God for my precious little boy. If one is what God has for me, I will be eternally grateful that he entrusted his life to me.

I am blessed!

Sick

I have to take an unexpected blogging break as my son and I are both battling some type of stomach bug. Not fun, but praying that it will not hold us down for long. Thanks for your prayers!!

The Revelation - Part 2

I didn't quite know how to handle the news of my blood clot. I was thankful I was still alive, but was so scared and had a hard time realizing that I would have to stay overnight at the hospital for a few days. They started me on blood thinners right away to dissolve the clot. The hospital was so crowded that they literally had to put me in a small room...actually, I believe it was a linen closet. I was so out of it, I didn't really know where I was.

Steve was picking up Shirley & Domingo (my sister-in-law and father-in-law) who dropped everything the minute they heard about my blood clot and flew from NJ to FL to basically run my household while I was away and to take care of Chris. My Dad and sister live in Florida so they were able to drive up and help out too. I am blessed with an incredible family. While Steve was at the airport, Pastor Jerry & Linda Lubrano from our new church in Florida literally found me in the linen closet. The front desk had no idea where I was, and instead of just taking that news and leaving, they combed the hallways and every door possible to find me. We had only visited their church twice, yet they came as soon as they heard what had happened to me. They sought me out, found me, prayed for me and encouraged me. Two other associate pastors and their families came from the church as well over the next 2 days... I was truly grateful for all their love and prayers. If nothing else, I knew that God had led us to this place, to this church, and that the timing of my blood clot, were no accident.

When I was finally released from the hospital, I had to go for weekly blood tests to make sure the blood thinners were doing their job. It was very tiresome, but I knew the importance of it. For some reason, my body was not regulating well to the blood thinners. My levels were all over the place, no matter how they adjusted my doses. So, after 6 months of weekly blood tests and a host of other tests, the doctor came with good news and bad news.... The good news was that the blood clot eventually did dissolve... the bad news is that....(to be continued)

The Revelation

The pain was so not going away... in fact, it was getting worse. What felt like a pulled muscle now was feeling tight and throbbing. I couldn't for the life of me remember what I did to mess my leg up like that. Perhaps when I was exercising, or when I reached for something or when I was walking? I didn't know the cause, but I was looking for a cure.

We had just moved to Florida and Chris was about 10 months old at this point. We were adjusting nicely to our new Florida surroundings. Steve was settled in at his job, we survived 3 hurricanes, and, after 3 months of searching, we FINALLY found a new church home.

The pain came from nowhere, or so it seemed. I didn't let it slow me down... I stood on a very long line to vote and I walked all over St. Petersburg with Steve & Chris on this particular weekend. But nothing seemed to work and I was desperate to figure it out. It had been about a week since I first sensed the pain and I was fed up.

One afternoon, when the pain seemed unbearable, I remember crying out saying, "Lord... I don't know what this is, or why I am in so much pain, but you know what it is, you know how I got it, and more importantly, you can cure it. Lord, give me wisdom as to what to do." For some silly reason, I had yet to find myself a primary care physician in FLorida at this point. I guess as a Mom, sometimes we put those little details aside. Chris was all set with his doctors, but I was another story.

No sooner did I utter my little petition, I felt the Lord impress on me to search my mind about my daily schedule... about what may be different in my life. So, I did just that. I thought about what Chris & I do every day, where we go, what activities we do, about what we had been eating, vitamins, etc. and then... the great revelation... The only thing different in my life was that I had started taking birth control pills about 6 weeks prior. Could that be the culprit for my pain?? I grabbed the bottle, and as clear as could be (as if written by the Lord himself) it said "IF YOU HAVE ANY PAIN IN YOUR LEGS, CALL YOUR PHYSICIAN IMMEDIATELY" (I don't know about you, but sometimes I need the Lord to hit me over the head with something.) I immediately grabbed the phone, called my new OB/GYN (at least I had seen an OB/GYN when we moved to FL) and explained my pains. Without letting me even finish my sentence she told me to get over to the E/R as soon as possible.

So, with baby and hubby in tow, I made my first trip to the Emergency Room. Because my pain was a "10" on the scale of 1 - 10, they took me right away and ran some tests. The technician showed no reaction and just told me that the doctor would be right in to speak with me... .that's never a good sign.

The doctor assigned to me came and explained to me that I had a DVT otherwise known as a BLOOD CLOT from my RIGHT KNEE ALL THE WAY UP THE RIGHT SIDE OF MY LEG TO MY WAIST!! She told me I was lucky that it didn't break off and cause an embolism and kill me. Lucky... no. The hand of God.. absolutely.

I am here today to tell this story because God gave me a revelation.. just in time. There's more to this story that I believe I need to share and will do so in the coming days.

Joy

Sometimes at night my mind just races. Does this happen to you? The events of the day... the stresses and to do lists for tomorrow.. the uncertainty of the future... it could really just steal what little joy you many have left at the end of that exhausting day. My husband works late many nights and, unfortunately, he often gets the part of me that is weary and warn, broken and has little left to offer at the end of a busy day. I thank God that he loves me and encourages me -- I am truly blessed.

May you each find comfort that no matter how dark your day or how weary, exhausted, frustrated and all-out stressed out you may be, we can look forward to what God promised us in Psalms 30:5 "..joy comes in the morning."

Timely Chocolate

I am very grateful that Halloween was this past Saturday. It was as if the stars, moon, and the planets were all perfectly aligned just for me because I am in full PMS mode and the bounty of chocolate now residing in my house is surely a blessing from above... I'm just saying. Thank you!!

Where Are You Dwelling??

"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust. If you make the Most High your dwelling - even the Lord, who is my refuge - then no harm will befall you, no disaster will come near your tent. For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone." (Excerpts from Psalm 91)

When I was a college student at Messiah College, in the little town of Grantham, PA, I distinctly remember one particular Halloween. I was walking around the campus with one of my good friends, and we both kind of looked at each other and said something to the effect of "Do you feel that?" There was such an oppressive spirit in the air... mind you, this was a Christian college in a very rural part of PA. But witchcraft and other evil existed outside of our college campus as it does all over the country. It was definitely in the air... it felt like it was closing around our campus... it was not a good feeling. I remember praying to the Lord to surround us and protect us and our campus.

If you have time, read all of Psalm 91 and remember to "dwell" - reside in, put your attention toward, the Lord.

The Christian View

How Christian Kids Deal With Halloween:

Favorite Things

Today's favorite thing is actually a website which has a couple of products which I have purchased and absolutely adore. http://www.leapsandbounds.com/ . This website also gives you access to their sister site, http://www.onestepahead.com/

When Chris was an infant, my sister-in-law purchased this soft sided toy box for him. This would make a great gift for any new parent. It holds a ton of stuff, is completely soft and collapsable and has a velcro closure. Easy enough for a young toddler to use and is so light, it can be moved from one location to another without much effort. Currently, Chris' toy box is in my living room filled with puzzles.

Another item that I purchased from this website was a Clothing Labeler. It has Chris' full name on it and is awesome for clothes/fabrics. I have been using it a lot lately with his winter jackets, hats, gloves, etc., especially now that he is in school. It was definitely worth the investment.

So, take a look around - especially those of you with younger kids. I'm sure you'll find things there that could be useful.

How A Christian Is Like A Pumpkin

I heard this a few days ago, and thought it would be great to read this to your kids, especially after pumpkin picking.

"Being a Christian is like being a pumpkin: God picks you from the patch, brings you in, and washes all the dirt off you may have gotten from the other pumpkins. Then he cuts the top off and scoops out all the yucky stuff. He removes the seeds of doubt, hate, greed, etc. Then He carves you a new smiling face and puts His light inside of you to shine for all the world to see."

TYL

I own a lot of Bibles... each seems to have their own story. I have one that my parents gave me as a teenager, another that I used faithfully in college, one I received from my dear friends in Florida before I moved back to NJ last year and one of my mom's Bible, to name a few.

The other day I grabbed my mom's Bible as I went to church. It had been a while since I used this particular Bible, and when we were turning to the scripture for that day, a piece of paper fell out. It was a prayer list I had created back in June of 2006. There were several items that were scribbled on there... a wide range of needs. Many urgent pleas, many longterm desires and general requests for healing, wisdom and provision. What I loved the most about this list was that several of the items had been crossed off with a "TYL" written above it. "TYL" was my abbreviation for "Thank You Lord".

As you can imagine, there were needs both great and small on that list. My friend and her husband wanted desperately to be parents, but were having issues getting pregnant at that time. Of course it seemed like other couples would just look at each other and they would be pregnant which made it that more difficult for our friends. We prayed and interceded for them for a long time. They are now the proud parents of a baby girl who is almost a year old. I took out my pen and happily crossed it off that list on Sunday and added a "TYL" next to it.

There were prayers for marriages in crisis... many of which have been healed and a few that were not. The list had needs for jobs for family members, child-rearing issues and salvation for loved ones. After examining this long-lost list, one thing became clear. God does answer prayers and there is nothing like going back to a list just like this to see his hand throughout time. He may not answer your prayer tomorrow or in the way you would like him too, but he is going to give you an answer. Yes, No, or Wait.

I think I'll keep making these lists and stick it in my Bible as a constant reminder of God's faithfulness through the years. Sometimes when you are going through a rough spot, it is helpful to see how God has helped you in the past. I hope you can put many TYLs next to your prayer needs.

Best Buddies

Overheard this morning at my house:

"Dad, can you take me to school today?"
"Sure, but don't you want to take the bus?
"No, Dad. I want you to drive me."
"Ok, but why do you want me to take you?"
"Because you're my best friend!" (Insert awwww!)

"What about Mommy.. can she come too?"
Insert big pause... then, "Well.. if she wants to... but she has to sit in the front with you."

What Are Kids Learning in Sunday School

Here's a quick walk through the Bible, as seen by some elementary students in a Catholic school.

The first book of the bible is called guinessis. God created the world. When he got tired, he took the sabboth day off.

God created Adam and Eve from an apple tree.

Samson killed hundreds of Philistines with the axe of the Apostles.

Samson was a really strong man who let himself be lead astray by a Jezebel called Delilah.

Noah built an ark. The animals came to it in pears.

Noah's wife's name was Joan of Ark.

Lot 's wife was a pillar of salt during the daytime and a ball of fire when it got dark.

Moses lead the people to the Red Sea. There they made unleavened bread. That's bread without any ingredients.

All the Egyptians got drowned in the desert. After that, Moses climbed Mount Cyanide and got the Ten Commandments.

The first commandment - Eve told Adam to eat the apple.

The seventh commandment - Thou shalt not admit adultery.

Moses died before reaching Canada.

Joshua lead the Hebrews into the battle of geritol.

The greatest miracle recorded in the bible - Joshua told his son to stand still and he obeyed him.

David had a son named Solomon. Solomon had 300 wives and 700 porcupines.

David was a Jewish king who was good at playing the liar. He fought the Finkelsteins.

When Mary heard that she would be the mother of Jesus, she sang the magna carta.

The three wise guys from the east found Jesus in a manger.

St. John the Blacksmith poured water on Jesus' head.

Man does not live by sweat along.

The Golden Rule says that you should do unto others before they do one to you.

The men who followed Jesus were called the 12 decibels.

The Epistles were the wives of the Apostles.

Matthew was one of the opossums. He was also a taxi man.

Hold acrimony is another name for marriage.

Christians can have only one spouse. It is called monotony.

Mind you, this is NOT what I'm teaching in Sunday School. You can find more of these funny jokes/stories at http://www.jokesclean.com/ChristianJokes

He Is With You

I've been a fan of Mandisa ever since she appeared on American Idol. It took a lot of guts to get up on that stage and belt out "Shackles". Although she did not win that season, she has certainly been on the Christian Music circuit.

Today I'm sharing her song, "He Is With You".... which basically reminds us that no matter what life might throw at us, God is always with us... Hope you enjoy this music video. To follow what's been happening with Mandisa, you can check out her blog at http://mandisaofficial.blogspot.com/

Monday

I feel like I've been up for hours -- oh, wait a minute.. I have been. Chris woke up at 4:50 am, and did not go back to sleep (and neither did I). So, it's only 7:30, but I've already clipped coupons from yesterday's paper, sorted the laundry, planned a meal, checked email, had a cup of coffee and packed Chris' snack for school today. I'm ready for lunch !

We had a great weekend. My sister, Ruth, was here for a very brief, but awesome visit. I hadn't seen her since April. We laughed, we cried, we played 2 games of Scrabble (I won both!!) and just sat around the fireplace enjoying being together. Poor thing was freezing (she lives in Florida now so she is not used to 30 degree weather and snow.) I took just a couple of pictures when she was here and I'll try to post them later.

Happy Monday everyone!!

Christmas Spectacular !!

I know, I know... way too early to be thinking Christmas, but this is the DEAL OF THE WEEK!! (Thanks to Janice for the heads-up on this amazing deal).

Radio City is offering discount ORCHESTRA seats for the Christmas Spectacular !! Each ticket is $49.99 -- for those of you who have never been to this show, let me assure you that this price is a true bargain !! Right now they are only offering tickets for shows from Nov 13 - Nov 30th, so it's not quite the "Christmas season" but is so worth the discounted price. You have to hurry, though. The discount is only offered through this Sunday, Oct 18th ! Also, if you are using an American Express card that is part of the reward program, you can redeem points for the tickets to lower the price even more !!!

I'm so excited... already printed out my tickets and put it on my calendar. This will be Chris' first time AND I'll be sitting just a few rows away from my friend Janice and her family. It's going to be awesome! You can get more details by visiting the website.

Kid Funny

After much debate, we took Chris to get his flu shot (the regular one, not H1N1) yesterday. Actually, it was his flu "vaccination" as we call it.. "shot" just sounds like you are going to be hit with a bullet... vaccination sounds more medical (and less painful). Anyway, Chris has had plenty of vaccinations, so he knows that it's just a little pinch, and then it's all over. When he was younger we would "practice" at home with a pretend doctor's kit so he would know what to anticipate when he got to the doctor's office. He is not a child who likes surprises.. he likes to know what is going to happen.

Anyway, he told me on the way to the doctor's office that he was going to be brave for his vaccination. I smiled and told him if he was real brave he would be rewarded with a trip to Target where he could pick out anything from the Dollar section (generous, aren't I? )

He was a little nervous and I did have to hold him down for the vaccination, but he did well. As the nurse was leaving the room, I thanked her and he yelled out, "Thanks for the pinch!" She and I just cracked up. He was so sincere. What a cutie.

I Corinthians 13 Test

At Bible Study this morning, the Pastor's wife shared with us a I Corinthians 13 test... every time the word LOVE appears, substitute it with your name.... Try reading it out loud with your name -- makes more an impact

Love is patient (ie. Beth is patient)
Love is kind and does not envy, does not boast, is not proud.
Love is not rude, is not self-seeking, is not easily angered, keeps no record of wrongs.
Love does not delight in evil, but rejoices with the truth.
Love always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

Makes you think a little, huh!? Some were a little hard to say out loud without a little flag going up...

Cool Website

I know I should be doing a "Five on Friday", but my sister-in-law, Shirley, sent me this link to a great website. Anyone who cooks (isn't that all of us!) should take a look at it. It gives you health/safety advice on how to store food, when you need to purge certain foods before they go bad. I've been playing around on this site and it has a ton of information. Enjoy
http://www.stilltasty.com/

Mother Of The Year... Maybe Next Time

Yesterday I lost all hope of becoming Mother of the Year. Let me start by saying that we live in a great neighborhood with lots of children around Chris' age to play with. The parents are awesome, very nurturing, attentive and all around nice people. We sit outside for hours watching our kids.

The downside is that our doorbell rings every day at 4:00 pm and, since Chris is still young, I feel it is imperative that I be out there to supervise. We live on a busy street and some cars just whip around the corner so I am the dedicated "yeller" for the block.

Anyway, yesterday was a typical day (except for the back ache which I blogged about). We went outside so Chris could ride bikes and, before long, it was time to come inside to have dinner. I was distracted because one of the boys on our block fell off his bike and I offered to grab a bandaid from our house. Meanwhile, another mom was outside watching the kids, including my own who was instructed by me to put his bike away and go inside to wash up.

I handed out the bandaid, shut the trunk to my van (the place where me and my friend sit to watch our kids play -- like a tail gate party) made sure the bike and helmet were in the garage and then I went inside too. I closed the garage, and proceeded to put in a load of laundry. I started to call for Chris just to see if he was done washing his hands and what he was up to... no answer. I ran upstairs.. no where to be found on the first floor.... ran to the second floor... no where to be seen or heard.... I started to panic... where did he go?

I ran back outside and asked one of the other kids if they had seen him... no she had not! I had the worst thoughts going through my mind... where could this boy be? I turned around to run back inside to check again when all of a sudden, I saw him SITTING IN THE TRUNK OF MY VAN ! We have dark glass in the back of the van so it's a miracle I even saw him at all... my son has been in the trunk of our van for at least 10 minutes! ! I was freaking out. I quickly opened it up, saw that he was fine... not at all phased by the fact that his mother was a mess and he was sipping on a Capri Sun drink that I had recently purchased and just had forgotten to take into the house. He was reading a book... he said he was fine and wasn't scared.. he thought it was more like hide and seek. Many of my long time readers will remember another scary incident where I thought he was lost. You can read about that here... funny that it happened just about this time last year. Hmmmmm..

Anyway, needless to say I'll be doing a more thorough inspection and walking him inside every afternoon.... Time to go pop some more extra strength Tylenol... suddenly my back is feeling tight again... wonder why.

Oh My Aching Back

Today I pulled a muscle in my back... I wish I could say that I pulled it doing something adventurous or fun. The reality is that I was bending over to take something out of the cabinet beneath our sink in the bathroom. When I went to stand up straight, something just didn't align again properly. Must be yet another sign that the big 4-0 is looming around the corner.

I already warned Chris that this afternoon he will be on his own (so to speak). He is at the age where he can get his own drink and snack and he obviously can use the bathroom without assistance. So, I informed him that after lunch, Mommy will be resting. A few minutes later, I entered the living room to find him arranging everything for "movie afternoon." "Mommy, you can sit on the couch -- I even put your favorite blanket there so you can rest. We are going to watch Veggie Tales ALL afternoon!" Wasn't that the sweetest thing!!

Brokenness

I had a "moment" today. I was singing along to the song "Holiness" during the opening worship session of our Ladies Bible Study. If I have sung this song once, I have song it a thousand times... "holiness, holiness, is what I long for.... holiness is what I need.... holiness, holiness is what you want from me..... So, take my heart and Form it, take my Mind and Transform it, Take my will and Conform it... to yours, to yours, oh Lord."

Perhaps you sing this song in your church too. Well, one of the last verses we sing is "Brokenness, brokenness, is what I long for... brokenness is what I need... etc. " I seriously had to stop myself and say "WHAT? Am I seriously saying out loud that I long to be broken... that I need to be broken !! How can I say that? I hate to be in that place where I feel so alone and broken and everything is going wrong and it feels like I don't have a single person in this world that understands me. It's such a deep, dark place and I DO NOT long to be in that place... I DO NOT need to be in that pit. But here I am singing that this is my desire. Wouldn't we all just rather be in our "happy" place where we are all put together and we know that Jesus loves us and everything is great in our universe? Wouldn't be so much easier to sing a song that says I'm Not Broken, So Please Don't Fix Me? Easier, yes.... but better for us? No.

I came to the conclusion that I do indeed need to be broken... I do need Jesus... I do need to get to the place where nothing else matters but Him. I do LONG to be close to him... but how can I get close to Him if I don't let him into every little area of my heart? Into those little dark corners.. into those areas that need to be broken down in order for him to form me, transform me and conform me.

Thank you Lord for being the only one who can form something beautiful out of shattered, broken pieces.

Favorite Things

As I mentioned in my last posting, I have been cleaning out my garage. Part of the challenge was sorting through boxes labeled "Miscellaneous".... that description doesn't help anyone. So, I treated myself to a label maker. Love, love, love this little device. Now each box I open can be clearly marked and labeled with what's actually inside the box. (What a concept!) It makes my life so much easier. (too bad I didn't have the foresight to buy this before the move!)

My son has gotten the "label" bug as well and has me labeling his bins so he knows exactly where to put his toys away. It's a win, win for everyone! My thrifty friends will appreciate this - I bought the label maker at Walmart, and a few days later found it on sale for $10 cheaper at Walgreens. You better believe that I marched myself back into Walmart with the flyer from Walgreens and got my $10 discount. Must admit... that felt pretty good!

Five On Friday

I've been cleaning out our garage which is no small project. We only unpacked a fraction of our stuff when we moved last year because we thought we'd only be in this townhouse for a year. As it turns out we'll be here longer, so I have been on a treasure hunt in the garage. Here are five items that have been rediscovered this past week:

1) My coach purse!!! Honestly, the funny thing about this was that the purse was in a box with old tax papers... never, ever would have thought to look in there... this box has not been opened since we moved from NJ back in 2004!!! Needless to say, it was nice to see it (and use it) again.

2) Wedding invitations, wedding planning book -- so nice to stroll down memory lane with all the details of our wedding.

3) Cords -- we have so many wires and miscellaneous cords I can't even begin to describe this... but my husband is a technical guy so these are important...

4) Old family photos and some notes from family members who are now in heaven -- makes those even more precious and meaningful

5) Christmas CDs - Steve and I have been collecting Christmas CDs for years. Every year we buy at least 3 new ones... we have hundreds of these for sure... soon we'll be able to start listening to them again since December is right around the corner.

Have a great weekend!

National Shortage

Recently, it was discovered, that I have single-handedly caused a national shortage of a certain product. While cleaning out my linen closet, I discovered that over the months, I have accumulated enough feminine hygiene products to last me well past menopause. It was not my intent to wipe out every pharmacy of this important product, but apparently I could not refuse a good bargain when I saw it. I had coupons, rebates, etc. and, unknowingly, stocked up on every tampon and maxi pad that I could lay my hands on. Then, I must have come home and just thrown the bag into my closet where they were just all uncovered during a recent "fall cleaning". I felt like a squirrel who buried a nut and then later dug it up.

So, here is my heart-felt apology to those of you who may be looking to purchase these items and can't find them in your local pharmacy or Target. They are all in my home. Feel free to drop by if you need one.

Lost In Translation

One of the joys of marrying into a family with a different culture, is learning and appreciating a different language. Those of you who know me and my husband know that he is Hispanic and that we are teaching our son Spanish so he can fully embrace that part of his culture. (Don't even get me started on the fact that my parents did not teach me how to speak German or Italian !!)

While living in Florida, we attended a great church that also had a Sunday evening Spanish Service. We quickly became involved and loved attending that service. It started out as a bilingual service which was great for me since my Spanish was not fluent. However, it eventually turned into a total Spanish service so I really had to put my Spanish education to work. I can definitely understand Spanish better than I can speak it. I can speak it... but it just takes me a little while to translate my thoughts into Spanish so it seems.

Usually if a few non-Spanish speaking people would come to the Sunday night services, we would have someone translate the sermon into English for them (they would be wearing a headset to receive the translation). But, if I was the only non-Spanish speaking person there, I would not ask for the translation and just see if I could figure it all out on my own. Steve would often check in with me to make sure I was fully understanding the sermon. I was usually spot-on with the sermon topic and got the gist of what was being said.

One night I was sitting alone for the beginning of the sermon, and to be honest, it just wasn't making much sense to me. As soon as Steve sat next to me, I said, "Honey.. you have to help me out here. Pastor keeps talking about an ugly man and I have no idea what he's talking about. What ugly man?? He keeps saying, "Feo, Feo" (Ugly, Ugly). Steve started cracking up and said, "No, No.. he's saying "Fe, Fe" (Faith, Faith).

I'm blaming it on Pastor's Brooklyn accent. Feo and Fe... you can see how easily an excitable man from Brooklyn could make those two words sound alike.

I'm Back

I obviously haven't blogged much in the last week and I apologize for that. It's been so busy around here. I just started back up with Bible Study (I did chose the "Esther" series by Beth Moore). Tomorrow is the first lesson, but I've been so excited that I already completed week one in my workbook. It's, by far, the easiest Beth Moore series I've encountered as far as homework is concerned.. but just as rich in material. I've learned so much about the first chapter of Esther which I've read so many times over the years, but now I have so much more insight into the life and times of Esther.

On top of that, our church has embarked on "Operation Take Back", a 40 day journey to take back everything the enemy (Satan) has taken from us (security, finances, family members, etc.) It's been a powerful trip so far and the Sunday services have been just incredible. You can follow along with Dr. Ireland's blog.

So between that and all the things I've volunteered for at school, I'm a busy, but happy lady. Hope you are all doing well and will be blessed in new and supernatural ways this week.

Sunday School Lesson

This past Sunday I taught Sunday School. We were teaching the Nursery class about how "God Makes Families" and I was using a baby doll to illustrate. We wrapped the baby in a blanket, pretended to feed the baby, burp the baby, etc. and then we were going to put the baby in a crib for a nap. So, I asked the class what song they would like to sing to the baby. "Let's sing a Hannah Montana song!" a little 2 year old yells out. WHAT?!?!?!? Hannah Montana?? (For those of you who don't have a little one at home, Hannah Montana is a TV show on Disney Channel).

How about Jesus Loves Me... do you know that one? I'm just saying...

Back To It!

Today I am so excited because Ladies Bible Study is starting up again. My church doesn't have one, but my cousin, Liz, has graciously invited me to attend the one at her church. I went last year and loved it! It's such a great time of fellowship and they have so many great topics of study to choose from. This is the one day of the week where I leave all housework, shopping, and errands behind (it will always be there tomorrow) and I do something just for me. BECAUSE AS MOMS AND WIVES WE NEED THIS!

I'm not sure which topic I'll choose this year. There is a study on Stress/Worry, a Beth Moore series on Esther (I love Beth Moore!), one on marriage and a few others that I can't remember off the top of my head. I think I'm leaning toward Beth Moore just because she really gets into the "meat" of a topic and the workbooks really dig deep and make you grow as a Christian. We'll see. I'm off to get everyone up and out of the house so I can get some "me and Jesus" time!

So, thanks again Liz! See you later.

The Tree

A few weeks ago I noticed a tree near my house that, as it appeared to me, had changed colors over night. Up until that point, it had been just like all the other trees on that hill. Green, tall and basically just ordinary. Nothing would have set it apart from any of the surrounding trees. But overnight it had gone from being a normal green tree, to a vibrant display of fiery reds and oranges. It was such a sharp contrast to the surrounding trees that you couldn't help but to notice it. It was majestic, regal almost, and you couldn't help but look at it and smile. To this day, it is still the only tree in full bloom and I am drawn to it each and every time I drive by it. I found myself wondering, why just that tree? What made it so special? It looked like it had been personally handpainted by God (which it was). What did that tree have that the others didn't?

It made me start to think that I want to be more like that tree... as a Christian. I want people to see the difference in me. I don't want to be an ordinary Christian -- to look and act like everyone else. I want Christ to illuminate my life the way that tree was illuminated. Can others see that Christ is in me? Can they tell that there is something special or different in not just my outward appearance and the joy in my life, but inside me as well? In my life as a whole??? It's not that I want people to pay attention to me... I just want them to know Christ because of me.

I don't know why God chose me, but I'm so glad. May your Christianity be in full bloom to all those around you today and everyday.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Just wanted to wish a very Happy Birthday to my Dad and my Uncle Dave! Hope you both have a wonderful day and that God will bless you both with good health and endless love and happiness.

Five on Friday

Five Things You Can Never Have Too Much Of:

1) Good Friends
2) Shoes!!
3) Chocolate
4) Love
5) NY Pizza

Say It Isn't So !

Macy's was putting up Christmas displays and tons of trees last week! It's crazy, isn't it? Where did the year go?

Would YOU be concerned?

My son came home from school the other day exclaiming, "Riding the school bus is like being on a roller coaster!" Would YOU be concerned??

Just Call Me Grace

She put on her best poker face as she sat through her Driver's Ed class. It was the first day of her senior year of high school. A day that teenagers eagerly anticipate -- you feel that you have arrived and it's your time to rule the school. She felt quite confident that first day. Her 80s hair was adequately sculpted and sprayed. She was having a fairly "routine" day... that was until 5 minutes into her 4th period Driver's Ed class. Now, with her forced smile firmly planted, she had to figure out what she was going to do. How in the world was she going to get through these next 45 minutes.... and, more importantly, how was she going to leave the classroom with her head held high after what just transpired??

The source of her angst was all her own doing. As she entered the Driver's Ed class, she was busy chatting with a good friend. They walked over towards the simulated cars (little models of the driver's side of a car) where they remained until the teacher announced that everyone should get into the simulator.

As Beth slid into her simulated car, she was so intent on listening and talking to her friend, that her focus was not on the metal car she was entering. As she lowered herself into the car, the only sound she heard was a rip... a big rip!! What Beth didn't see while entering the simulator was that this was a manual car, not an automatic, so it had a huge metal stick shift protruding from the front of the dashboard area. Somehow, she managed to put a huge rip in her new jeans. The tear was so large that it was literally an L-shape. All she could see was her thigh and the little L-shape denim falling open in all the wrong places. Luckily, her friend was busy getting herself situated and didn't realize what had happened to Beth.

Somehow she managed not to slice open her leg... that would have just been the dead give away and she wouldn't be able to play this off. Why, or why did the rip have to happen on the upper part of her thigh? Why couldn't it have been on the knee or somewhere fashionable??

So, for the rest of 4th period, Beth plotted her escape. She realized that there was no way she was going to be able to stay in school the rest of the day with her thigh exposed... not the kind of attention she was looking for the first day of her senior year. So, the only option was to sit with her legs firmly pressed together the rest of the class, and when exiting the simulator to try to walk with her thighs literally rubbing together to keep the denim from flapping. She imagined she looked like quite the freak as she wobbled (with her knees pressed together for dear life) from the classroom, down 4 flights of stairs, out the door, into the Subway and onto the train and subsequent bus ride to her home. Her legs were killing her when she got home -- rub burn!!The only positive thing about this experience was that she did have a jacket with her so she at least wrapped that around her waist -- not that it helped much, but at least she felt somewhat covered.

Definitely a memorable first day of my last year of high school. Just call me Grace.

Singing This All Day

We sang this in church this morning and it's just stayed with me... hope you are having a wonderful, God-blessed Sunday.

Five on Friday

Happiness is....

1) A bouquet of flowers... just because
2) Using a gift card on you -- and not necessarily on something practical or on sale
3) An answered prayer request
4) Finding a love letter or card from your spouse that you had put in a drawer and just stumbled upon again
5) Realizing your child is growing up... and growing in God at the same time!

He Cares For You!

Today is a bad day... not for me, but for so many people I care about. It seems like every time the phone rang this morning, it was someone else who had bad needs dropped on them, or had a prayer request. When it rains, it pours or so it seems.

I am so glad my friends know they can turn to me when they need someone to pray. I have several friends who have recently lost their jobs (both the husband and wife in one family!). My sister and her kids are all sick, I have friends with children who are already having difficulty in school, and there are some other important needs that were spoken in confidence and will stay there.

I'm standing with you my friends and praying for miracles and blessings on you and your families. God has not forgotten you - HE KNOWS YOUR NAME! Sending big hugs and lifting you in prayer today!!

"Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you." I Peter 5:7 (KJV)

Things To Do This Fall

The Princess Diana exhibit is in town for those of you who live in the greater Philadelphia area. I saw this exhibit with my sister when it was in Florida and we loved it!! We even had Christopher with us (he was just an infant) and was quite content in the stroller. The highlight had to be Princess Di's wedding dress and many of her famous outfits that were on display. Also, the extraordinary amount of books that held condolences from people all around the world. It was very interesting and I would definitely recommend it. The exhibit is at the National Constitution Center (which is well worth a visit in and of itself if you haven't been there yet). The exhibit runs from Oct 2 - Dec 31. You can find out more details here


I'm also thinking about checking out Melissa Gilbert in her new role as "Ma" in the Little House on the Prairie - The Musical. That will run from Sept 10 - Oct. 10th at the Paper Mill Playhouse here in New Jersey. You can get more info on that by clicking here.

Birthday Dream

It was the night before my 32nd birthday (my mom passed away 2 years before that). I guess I was thinking about her before I went to sleep so she was on my mind. I was sound asleep and in my dream I was back in my childhood home in Queens, NY. I was busy getting ready for work, rushing around when the phone rang. Since I was running late, I decided to let the answering machine get it. After the beep, I heard, "Hi Beth... this is Mom. I'm just calling to wish you a very Happy Birthday and to let you know that I love you very much and I'll see you soon. Have a great day". It was totally my Mom's voice, complete with New York accent. The next thing I knew, I could see her face as clear as could be. It was as if she were reaching down from heaven to give me a kiss. It was as if I could just reach out and touch her. At that moment, my eyes popped open and I was of course alone in my bedroom in Lancaster, PA. It was the perfect start to my birthday -- how cool was that for God to give me a special birthday greeting from my Mom in heaven.