Thankful in spite of.....

For the past couple of weeks, people on my facebook have been posting the things they are thankful for. I considered joining the "fun", but to be honest...I've not been feeling very thankful lately.

A lot of things have happened in the past year that haven't been all that great. Sometimes I find myself wallowing in it, which serves no purpose other than to really make me feel crappy! The latest in the long list of "crappy" things is that we found out 3 or so weeks ago that my oldest sister, Becky has breast cancer. So, I've been thinking.....what is there to be Thankful for anyway? I figured I would blog (something I haven't done is quite some time) and try to think of all the things I have to be thankful for.

* I'm thankful for my husband. For all that he does to help out around the house.
* I'm thankful for my 2 great kids, who love me unconditionally.
* I'm thankful that I am finally finished with school!!!
* I'm thankful that God provided the PERFECT Medical Transcription job for me and that I love it!
* I'm thankful that I have a great boss.
* I'm thankful that my nephew Ben's lymphoma is in remission and that he is doing so well.
* I'm thankful that my sisters cancer was found early.
* I'm thankful for my parents, and that we live close to them.
* I'm thankful for a nice home.
* I'm thankful that even though my husband has been unemployed for over a year, we have never gone hungry and our bills are paid.
* I'm thankful for high speed internet, without which I would not be able to work from home or listen to awesome sermon's by Pastor Rob Gates! He has been doing a series on suffering that has been a balm to my soul! I don't know how to link to the website from here but the web address is www.lafayettealliance.org if you want to listen to these wonderful, uplifting messages.
* I'm thankful for friends that take the time to ask me how I am doing, and really want to hear the truth, not just the typical "I'm fine".
* I'm thankful for my dogs and birds. What a blessing pets are!
* I'm thankful that I am able to homeschool my kids. What a blessing it is to be with my children all day, every day!
* I'm thankful for Thanksgiving, because it makes us stop and consider all the things we have to be thankful for!
* Mostly, I am thankful that God chose me to be one of His children. I am thankful for the gift of salvation. I am thankful that Jesus was willing to die for my sins. I am thankful that God forgives and forgets my sins when I come to Him in repentance. I am thankful that even when life is tough and it gets me down, I have a God that is working all things out for my good and His glory.

I guess I have a lot to be thankful for after all! :)

WOW!

Wow, I can't believe I haven't blogged since August!! The name of my blog is "Cheryl's Thoughts", my not blogging doesn't mean that I don't have any thoughts....actually I have too many right now and am trying to sort them all out.

I've also had a very busy and stressful couple of months and I haven't really felt like blogging.

This is just a short blog to say that I haven't given up on blogging, and that I plan to blog more frequently in the near future, after I get things sorted out in my brain.

So, for now I'll just say, to be continued......

Springfield, IL Aug. 4-8, 2010

On Wednesday morning we awoke to gray skies and thunder, but in between storm fronts we finished loading the camper and we set out for our adventure in Springfield, IL.

We left at around 10:00, and thinking that the drive would be about 4 hours, told Olivia that our arrival time would be around 2:00. Little did we realize that the drive was more like 7 hours! You see, the problem was that "Lincoln's New Salem Historic Village and Campground" is as they say...."you can't get there from here!" You know the math fact that "the shortest distance between 2 points is a straight line", well....the "straight line" from Grovertown, IN to New Salem, IL is mostly all 2 lane state highways. There are pro's and con's to state highways....the "pro" is that the drive is very scenic. I was very impressed with all of the beautiful little towns that can be found in western Indiana and in Illinois! The "con" is that with these beautiful little towns comes 45 mph speed limits and either stop signs or stop lights, and these said beautiful little towns are approximately 10-15 miles apart! We did spend a short time on an Interstate. I-55 around Normal/Bloomington. Can we all say....SCARY!! The traffic was crazy! There were cars and semis everywhere and road construction....I was never so glad to get back on those slow state highways after that!!

Another thing about Illinois that surprised me was all of the corn fields!!! I thought Indiana had a lot of corn! It's nothing compared to Illinois. You know the state motto of Illinois? It's "Land of Lincoln" well, I think they should change it to "Land of Corn"! Being as I am allergic to corn pollen....I was eternally thankful for Benedryll!

So, we pulled into the campground around 5:oo, and our camping buddies, the Feece family, pulled in about 5 minutes behind us (though we didn't caravan, and they took a different route than we did). See, I told you..."you can't get there from here!"

The campground was lovely. It was small, but there were plenty of sites to choose from. There were lots of trees and grass. We chose sites that were close enough together that when we raised the awnings on our campers they almost touched. Just as we were setting up, a thunderstorm blew through. It wasn't severe, but it rained enough that it changed our plans for a campfire. Instead of cooking our hot dogs and brats on the fire, we ended up cooking them inside the Feece's camper on their electric grill. (They tasted great anyway!) We spent the evening visiting inside a nice dry camper that had air conditioning! (It was incredibly HOT AND HUMID!!) Another thing we noticed as evening approached....there must have been THOUSANDS of cicadas in that park! When they started "singing", it was unbelievably LOUD!

On Thursday morning, we had pancakes and sausage for breakfast. Then we all went over to the Historic village and toured the sites. During the depression, the state of Illinois hired unemployed people to excavate the site of the original settlement. They dug down to the original foundations and rebuilt the cabins on the original foundation sites. Through historic records and other documents, they were able to figure out where each of the businesses were located, and who the people were that lived in each of the cabins. They had people in "period" costumes that were very knowledgeable of the town of New Salem, and of it's most famous resident, Abraham Lincoln.

After several hours at the village, we went back to our campsites to spend a little time relaxing before time to fix supper. Also, Lisa's cousin Karen and her husband Dave arrived. They live in Joliet, IL and came to spend 2 nights. They slept in the tent that the kids had put up. For supper, we had spaghetti and a very nice salad. After supper, we all piled into the Feece's camper and watched my all-time favorite camping movie, "RV" with Robin Williams. Lisa's cousin had never seen it, and I laughed as if it were the first time I had ever seen it. That movie is timeless, and just as funny every time I watch it!

On Friday morning, we just ate cereal for breakfast, because we wanted to get an early start in Springfield. Our campground was only about 20 minutes from Springfield. We went to the Lincoln Museum. It is probably the nicest museum that I've ever been to. It was all about Lincolns life, from his childhood until his death. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and could have easily spent another day there. The only thing that was aggravating was that we weren't allowed to take pictures of most of the exhibits! Here are a couple that we WERE allowed to take....

We had packed a picnic lunch, and we ate it by a building that used to be a railway station. They refurbished it and converted it into a visitors center. Outside the railway station, there was a monument erected to commemorate a "race riot" that had occurred in downtown Springfield in 1908. Several people were killed. Here is a picture of the railway station, and the monument.

For supper Friday night, we had pork roast that Wayne had cooked in a crock pot all day while we were in Springfield, and roasted vegetables that Karen and Dave did on their portable gas grill. It was delicious! After supper, Wayne built a fire and we had a very nice evening of visiting around the fire. Eventually, (after the sun went down) the fire actually felt nice! LOL Wayne also treated everyone to homemade strawberry shakes! Everyone said they were delicious! Wayne offered to make me a dairy-free one with soy ice cream, but I was still too full from supper!

Saturday morning we had french toast and bacon for breakfast and then headed back to Springfield to take a tour of Lincolns home that he bought after he married Mary Todd. He was living in this house when he was elected president.
The following are a few pictures of the interior.



We also visited Lincoln's tomb. I was deeply touched when I saw his resting place. Abraham Lincoln was a great man who loved the Lord. I think he would be greatly humbled if he knew how much people admired him today. The monument that was built around his grave is truly awe inspiring.
After we got back to the campground, we started supper. We had chicken cooked on the fire, and Karen and Dave made roasted corn-on-the-cob on their gas grill.
We also had some time of R&R!
Isn't my sweetie cute? I love this picture of him!
After supper, Karen and Dave took off back to Joliet, and the rest of the gang headed over to the amphitheater for "Theater In the Park". It is an outdoor amphitheater where a local amateur theatrical group puts on plays and musicals throughout the summer. The musical being performed was Rodgers and Hammersteins, "Carousel". It was very well done, and I enjoyed it immensely. Travis, being a typical pre-teen boy, was sure that he WOULDN'T enjoy it. I told him, "trust me...you'll love it"! At the intermission, Emily asked Travis if he liked it. His response...."The part I like best is all the pretty girls!" Lord help me..... it's starting already!!! LOL

We weren't able to take any pictures during the performance, but here is a picture of the stage before it started and of the small but very talented orchestra.

And of course... the kids needed snacks!

Sunday morning we woke up early to get ready for our looonnnngggg drive home. Travis and Olivia were exhausted and did NOT want to get up!
We had one last breakfast together (leftover french toast and pancakes), and Wayne lead us in a time of worship with prayer and scripture reading. He read from Psalms and then expounded on the verses for a short time.

Then the tear-down and packing began. Scott had decided to try driving all interstates home, thinking it would be quicker. The actual mileage was more, but being on the interstate you can drive faster and there are no stops. We pulled out of the campground around 11:00. We stopped 3 times, once for gas, once for lunch, and once for a potty break for the driver. We pulled in our driveway at 5:30. So, our drive home still took us nearly 7 hours! Go figure!

We had an absolutely fabulous time! Even the dogs had fun!

I am so thankful to God for the opportunity He allowed for us to get away, for the special friends that we were able to spend the time away with, for the funds to pay for the trip, and for safety on the road. At the beginning of the summer I didn't think we would be able to do anything fun this year because of the lack of money, but with God all things are possible!

A chance to win free tickets!

I've been wanting to go to the True Woman Conference, but I have a couple of "road blocks".
1. I don't have the money for a ticket.
2. I don't have anyone to go with.

I found out about this "Ticket-A-Day Giveaway to get a free ticket."

Every time I share the information, I am entered in a drawing for a chance to win. You should join, too, and maybe we can attend together! True Woman Movement Fan Page.

Suffering? It's all worth it!

I would have to say that I have had my share of suffering in my life.

Some of the things that I have gone through are what would be characterized as the "paper cuts of life", those things that aren't life shattering, but are certainly annoyances.

Other things could qualify as more than "paper cuts". The last few years, I would have to say, have not been the most fun. I've dealt with a stomach ailment, that for many months was of unknown origin, and once a diagnosis was made, it meant a complete change of lifestyle; we've dealt with a conflict with Scott's daughters that has not had a good outcome; and a year ago Scott lost his job. Each of these problems on their own would be fairly manageable, but toss them all together and I will have to say....I was a mess!

About 6 months ago, I was really beginning to doubt a lot of things. I was in such a state of depression that I was even beginning to doubt God. I didn't doubt that God existed....but the thoughts that I was having were that of "If God loves me, why are these things happening? If God loves me, why won't he heal me?" It has been a long process for me to work through these thoughts. With a lot of prayer, and immersing myself in Scripture and other Godly things, I'm beginning to make sense of it. Here are a few things that I've learned.

1. Just because you are a Christian doesn't mean that trouble won't come, in fact, just the opposite is true. Romans 8:17 "Now if we are children, then we are heirs --heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory."
2. Suffering is a result of sin, not that suffering is necessarily a punishment for a specific sin, but because sin is in the world suffering is a natural result. Romans 5:12 "Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because all sinned"
3. That if the suffering is because of Christ, then I can rejoice! Luke 6:22-23 "Blessed are you when men hate you, when they exclude you and insult you and reject your name as evil, because of the Son of Man. Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, because great is your reward in heaven. For that is how their fathers treated the prophets."
4. God allows suffering to draw His children to Him and to produce perseverance. If my life was always a "bowl of cherries", then I would not have a need for God. I would never have to pray to Him, or depend on Him, and my faith would whither. Romans 5:3-5 "Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us."

Though I still don't like my suffering, I can see now why it is necessary and I can honestly say that I am closer to God now than I have ever been, and I am more at peace than I have ever been. Are my problems gone? No. I'm still not healed, Scott's daughters still aren't talking to us, and Scott is still unemployed (though God is providing for us is some very creative ways!)

So what HAS changed? My attitude. I've discovered that:
1. In every problem you have to put it in perspective. Nothing that I have gone through can measure up to what the people in Haiti have suffered, or what a close personal friend suffered a year ago with the murder of her son.
2. Think of the positive, don't dwell on the problem.
3. Count your blessings. I know that sounds simplistic, but it's true. If you actually take the time to list all the things you have to be thankful for, then the problems don't seem so big.
4. Most of all remember that in all things, God is faithful. He will provide for us out of His glorious riches. (Philippians 4:19)
Ephesians 3:20-21 "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen."

This life, with all of it's problems, is fleeting. It is just a tiny speck in comparison to eternity. How thankful I am that I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that I will spend eternity with Jesus in Heaven where there is no pain, no sickness, no tears, no death.

If in this moment that I spend on earth, I suffer because of Christ, or in my suffering I am drawn closer to Christ....then it is all worth it!

Myers-Brigg personality test

I just took the Myers-Brigg personality test and my results are:

I - introverted
S - sensing
F - feeling
J - judging

Here is how it was described:

Follows the rules, polite, fears drawing attention to self, dislikes competition, somewhat easily frightened, easily offended, timid, dutiful, private, lower energy, finisher, organized, socially uncomfortable, modest, not confrontational, easily hurt, observer, prone to crying, not spontaneous, does not appreciate strangeness - intolerant to differences, apprehensive, clean, planner, prone to confusion, afraid of many things, responsible, guarded, avoidant, anxious, cautious, suspicious, more interested in relationships and family than intellectual pursuits, not adventurous, fears doing the wrong thing, dislikes change.

I agree with a lot of this! The ones I think aren't accurate are:
*Intolerant to differences...I think I'm a pretty tolerant person.
*Prone to confusion....I see things pretty clearly, and if I don't understand something, I will study it until I do understand it.
*Not adventurous...I LOVE adventure, I just don't do things that could end up in death! Things like, bungee jumping or sky diving! LOL

The rest of it is pretty accurate! There are some things that I am working on in my personality that I would like to change, such as:
*Afraid of many things...I am praying that I will no longer have a spirit of fear, but a spirit of peace.
*Anxious...this kind of goes along with the one above. I know my anxiety is the main source of my stomach issues, so I am trying to become less anxious.

Some of it I am very please with. Such as: Follows the rules, polite, dutiful, finisher, organized, modest, not confrontational, observer, clean, planner, responsible, more interested in relationships and family than intellectual pursuits, and fears doing the wrong thing. I think these are admirable qualities!

I found this test to be very interesting and accurate!

If you would like to take this simple test here is the link:

http://similarminds.com/cgi-bin/newmb.pl

Our first camping trip of 2010

On Sunday, after church, we left in our 1970 Travco and drove a whole 15-20 miles to Potato Creek State Park. We decided to go to a place that was really close to home to save on gas. We also decided to go at the beginning of the week, because Sunday through Wednesday it is $17.00 a day; Thursday through Saturday is $25.00 a day. So, our first camping trip cost us around $60.00!

We got to our site around 2:00 p.m. and set up camp. This consisted of plugging the camper into the electric, turning on the air conditioning, pulling out the awning, and getting out our camp chairs. It took us all of 15 minutes. I love that about camping in an RV!!

Scott and I were totally whipped. He's been helping my brother out on a job. My brother does reconstruction work. He goes in after a fire, or other type of home damage and does all the rebuilding. He has a lot of work right now, so Scott has been helping him out. So, he worked with Brad the whole week prior to us going (including Saturday), plus he still had to do things around the house, and get the camper ready to roll. I was whipped because my schoolwork has been increasingly difficult, plus I really got used to having Scott home to help me with the chores around the house. So, Sunday we basically sat in our camp chairs and "people watched". Supper consisted of hotdogs cooked in the microwave we have in our camper, (we were too tired to even build a fire to cook the hotdogs), and chips. Around 9:00, we retired to the camper and watched the movie "RV" with Robin Williams. Totally hilarious movie!!!

Monday morning we woke up around 9:00....it was SOOOOO nice to sleep in!!! Then Scott and I enjoyed a cup of coffee and a time of reading our Bibles out under the awning of the camper. I also woke up with an allergy attack.....runny nose, congestion, etc. I love camping and being in the great outdoors, but this time of year is especially bad for my allergies with the corn tasseling. Living in Indiana, it's NOT a good thing to have an allergy to corn tassels!! Also, campfire smoke doesn't do me any good either. So, I took a Benadryl. Needless to say, around lunchtime....I was a zombie! After lunch, we went for a bike ride over to the beach, and we got the kids some ice cream at the concession stand. We rode back to the camper, and I went in a took a 2 hour nap! Not because of the bike ride, but because of the Benadryl! It was so nice to just SLEEP! After my nap, I felt so much more refreshed.

That afternoon, Scott and I sat in our chairs some more and did more "people watching". People can be very interesting to watch. Across from our campsite, there were 2 different families camping. Each family had 3 children, and it was interesting to see how totally different these families were, and how they interacted with each other. Family A was a couple in probably in their late 30's early 40's. Their children ranged from around 10 to 6. It was obvious that the parents loved spending time with their kids, the dad took the kids fishing numerous times, he played catch with one of the kids giving "pointers" in a loving way, the mom also played catch even though she had to chase the ball more than actually catching it. It was refreshing to see them interact. Family B was a couple in their early-to-mid 20's. Their children ranged from around 7 to 1. It was obvious that the children were a burden to these parents. The kids were left to their "own devices", the baby was not watched (made me incredibly nervous when he toddled near the fire!!), the mother swore at the kids numerous times, the dad was disinterested. This family made me sad.

Supper Monday night was Sweet Italian sausages cooked over the fire, we also had roasted new potatoes and onions cooked in a foil packet over the fire, and mixed vegetables (cooked in the microwave). We ate "el fresco". After supper, the kids cooked marshmallows over the fire and made s'mores. We stayed up really late....the kids loved it!

Tuesday, we awoke to a downpour (so no coffee and Bible reading under the awning today). The rain lasted until around 11:00, then the sun came out. The day was spent walking the dogs around the park, playing "Mancala" with the kids, and of course... "people watching". Then we jumped in the van and went over to the Nature Center. We were there just before they started a presentation on "Bloodsuckers". So, naturally, we had to listen! LOL It was all about mosquitoes, fleas, ticks, and LEECHES eeewwww!!! It was actually really interesting! My favorite part of the Nature Center is the bird viewing area. Its a spot where they have one-way glass so people can see the animals, but the animals can't see the people. They have a small water pond, and LOTS of different bird feeders. We saw doves, cardinals, red-winged blackbirds, grosbeaks, gold finches, but the most interesting birds to watch were the hummingbirds! There were 4 or 5 of them having aerial combat over the nectar, it was so cool! Of course, more critters are attracted than birds. We saw numerous squirrels of varying types and sizes, 2 ground hogs, and a raccoon that came right up to the glass. I could have stayed there all day! I told Scott that when we are rich (HAHAHA) I want him to build me a room just like that one off of our house.

Supper Tuesday night was grilled chicken over the fire, more roasted potatoes only this time without the onions, and mixed veggies. Of course, the kids MUST do s'mores again! Since this was our last night, we burned up all our wood and had a nice fire for most of the evening.

Wednesday was spent as a very leisurely morning. Sleeping late, the kids took one last bike ride, and we walked the dogs down to the "dog beach". Lucy jumped right in the water, but Sally wanted nothing to do with it. As we walked along the shore, we came upon a spot where there had obviously been a flock of geese....you wouldn't BELIEVE the amount of poop that geese can produce!! It was totally disgusting and we soon left. After we got back to the camper, we had lunch and we slowly packed up. We pulled out around 1:00.

It was such a nice, relaxing time!!! None of us wanted to leave, and I am totally looking forward to our next trip! I'm looking forward to the day when we can afford a newer camper that is better suited to our family, and when we have the money to go camping more often.

P.S. We didn't take ANY pictures!!! BOOOO! Every time we were somewhere and wanted to take pictures, we had forgotten the camera at the camper!

Spirit Of Fear

I have always been what you would call a worrier. I have been for as long as I can remember. When I was a very little girl...probably around 5 I learned that germs make you sick....so I became intensely afraid of germs. I would get so upset if I thought something of mine had germs on it. Now, as an adult, I wouldn't say that I am a germaphobe, but I am extremely cautious. I carry germx and antibacterial wipes in my purse, I wipe down the tables in restaurants with the wipes and make my kids use germx every night before supper. I wash my hands A LOT. I am very cautious when I cook and use bleach cleaner in excess. I won't drink after anyone, not even my husband. If one of my kids wants a drink of my beverage, they have to get a separate glass...or I won't share my drink. I won't share utensils either. If I have to visit anyone in the hospital, (other than the maternity ward) I will break into a sweat, get nauseous, and have heart palpitations. I think I would classify myself as borderline germaphobic, borderline OCD.

My fears have held me back over the years. I've not followed my dreams because of fear. I have passed up experiences because of fear. I have many fears that are completely irrational, and I know they are irrational...but they are still there in the back of my mind.

Recently, I have been thinking a lot about all of the fears that I have. I have come to the realization that I am not just a worrier, I have a spirit of fear. I don't like that. I don't want to have a spirit of fear, I want to have a spirit of peace. I'm tired of worrying about things, real or imagined, when as the Bible says "Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?" Matthew 6:27 I know that many of my physical problems are manifestations of a life of anxiety. I know that my Irritable Bowel Syndrome has direct links to my anxiety. My body is so sensitive, that I will have an IBS attack before I am even aware that I am anxious about anything.

Today I had my annual physical exam at my doctor's. It was just a check up, nothing to worry about. But, the end of last week I had IBS symptoms because my doctor's appointment was on my mind. It's so crazy!! My doctor is one of the nicest guys on the planet! He is a Christian, and he's been my doctor for 12 years. I wasn't having any issues to be worried about, I wasn't having any symptoms of anything. Yet, I was anxious. Not horribly anxious, but a just a little anxious....my body reacted to those "signals" and I was really sick for about 4 days. My doctor's appointment went fine! My doctor was just as nice and kind as ever, and he gave me a clean bill of health! I had some routine blood work done to check my CBC, TSH (thyroid), and a metabolic panel. And I will be having a mammogram done in the next week or two, (OUCH!!) also just routine. When I asked him about the need for the mammogram he said, "well, you're 42 now.....it's time to get a baseline mammogram"....gee thanks doc....just what I needed...a reminder that I'm getting older! LOL

This spirit of fear runs in my family I think. My grandfather (dad's dad) was a fearful person, and I also see this spirit of fear in my son. I really don't want him to grow up worrying about everything, or being afraid of new experiences because of the fear of the unknown. I don't want him to have all this "stuff" in his head. I am trying to talk to him about his fears, and show him where his fears are unfounded. Mostly, I am trying to get him to give those fears to God and to rest in Him.

As part of my daily prayer time, I am asking God to take away this spirit of fear that I have lived with for so long, and to replace it with HIS spirit, a spirit of peace. Anytime I feel some of those irrational fears creeping in, I stop and take a deep breath and send a prayer to God again asking for His spirit of peace. I have a long way to go, but I know that with God's help I will overcome these chains of fear that has for so long held me back.

Romans 8:15-17
"For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, "Abba, Father." 16 The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. 17 Now if we are children, then we are heirs--heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory."

Blessed are you when men hate you......

I've been so blessed by the ministry of the radio program "Revive Our Hearts". I don't have the opportunity to listen to the program "live" on the radio, but I listen to it on their website:

www.reviveourhearts.com

Last week I was browsing around the website and I stumbled upon a series of talks called "Countercultural Woman". It was a long series of talks that Nancy Leigh DeMoss did back in February on Proverbs 31. For each 30 minute program she discussed each verse of Proverbs 31. I cannot express how blessed I have been by these programs. Proverbs 31 is one of my favorite passages of Scripture, and these talks have made it more "alive" and applicable to me than I ever thought possible. It has also been very convicting in many areas of my life. One of the most convicting, however, has been in the area of personal devotions and quiet time with the Lord each day. I have been very sporadic in this area. I've had all the good intentions in the world, but also all the excuses in the world for NOT spending time in prayer and Bible reading. I have renewed my commitment in this area, and am hoping with God's help to make this a regular daily practice.

In the past I have tried the "read the Bible in a year" schedules, and I've not been very successful. I really get "unmotivated" when I spend day after day reading Numbers and some of the other books of the Old Testament (minor prophets, etc.). It's not that those books aren't important, or that there isn't jewels of wisdom that can be gleaned from those passages....it's just that, well.... they're kind of boring. I hate to say that, but unless you are a theologian or a really smart history whiz....it's hard to get through those particular books of the Bible. So, I decided to start reading the book of Luke. In part, because it is the story of Jesus, and also because it is the book of the Bible that our former pastor encouraged Scott to read before Scott became a Christian. I've read Luke before, but it's been a long time since I've read it from beginning to end.

In my reading, there are a couple of verses that literally jumped off the page, and fits a situation that I am in, and has answered my questions and doubts about that situation. The passage is:

Luke 6:22-23
Blessed are you when men hate you,

when they exclude you and insult you
and reject your name as evil,
because of the Son of Man.
Rejoice in that day and leap for joy,
because great is your reward in heaven.
For that is how their fathers treated the prophets.

About a month ago, a couple of people (not Christians) whom I have known for a long time and thought of as friends said something very derogatory, untrue, and mean about me. I could not understand why. I have gone through all of the emotions of being hurt, sad, angry, disappointed, etc. I have searched my heart, and I know that I have done nothing to deserve this treatment. I have been praying for peace in this situation, and that someday these broken relationships will be mended. When I read Luke 6:22-23...it was like God was actually speaking to me through those verses. Those people actually verbalized those things....hate, excluding, insulting, and rejecting me. Then POW....realization struck....it's because they see Christ in me!! Christ in me makes them feel uncomfortable and convicted so they lash out. They insult my intelligence, they call me a hypocrite....all because what they really can't stand, is Christ.

John 3:19-21
"This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God."

They love the darkness and hate the light.

John 6:23 says that I should rejoice and leap for joy because my reward will be great in heaven! It's hard to fathom rejoicing when someone mistreats you, but if they are mistreating me because when they look at me, they see Jesus...then what a blessing! I CAN rejoice!

I still feel sadness over the broken relationships. I feel hurt because words are so powerful and can be so destructive, and once spoken can never be taken back. I feel anger because I was wronged. But mostly I feel pity for them because they are so lost and will spend eternity in hell if God does not call them unto Himself.

Though it is hard, I will continue to pray for those people, and for continued peace in this situation.

Thank you God for your Word, for your promises in Scripture, and for your grace, mercy and peace in every situation.

ABCs of May...OK June now: Y and Z are for...

Y is for...

Yesterday.

Another poem from "Poems for Memorization"

Each Today

We cannot change yesterday--- that is quite clear,
Nor begin on tomorrow until it is here.
So all that remains is for you and for me,
To make each today as worthwhile as can be.

Author Unknown

I heard a saying once, "Today is tomorrow's yesterday."

Live today so that tomorrow you won't regret "yesterday."

Hebrews 13:8
"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever."

Z is for...

ZIPPIDY DO DAH!!

I am finally done with the ABCs!! It has taken me longer than I thought it would, but I am glad that I persevered through and completed it.

I have learned a lot from doing this. I have learned to blog or "journal" more often. I have learned that it is therapeutic to write your thoughts down. I think I will make it a point to do more journaling in the future.

Thank you to those who have commented on my posts, and to those who have continued to read my thoughts and opinions on things.

Hebrews 10:35-37
"So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. 36 You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. 37 For in just a very little while,
He who is coming will come and will not delay."

ABCs of May?...OK June now: X is for...

X is for...

X-tremely X-cellent!

Okay, Okay I know those words don't actually start with X, but since I don't play the xylophone, and I haven't had an x-ray recently...you'll just have to cut me some slack! LOL

Today I pick some eXtremely eXcellent strawberries from my mom's patch! They are totally organic and totally AWESOME! Who says you have to soak produce in chemicals and insecticides in order to get wonderful fruit?!?






























Some of them were the size of golf balls!!















YYYYUUUUUUMMMMMM!!!!!
So, naturally...I made Strawberry Shortcake for dessert!
Homemade whole wheat shortcake topped with freshly picked, homegrown, organic strawberries, followed by a dollop of organic vanilla soy ice cream!! What could be better?!?

James 1:17 & 18
17.Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. 18 He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created.

ABCs of May?...OK June now: W is for....

W is for...

Wilt Thou Follow Me?

"Wilt thou follow Me?"
The Saviour asked.
The road looked bright and fair;
And filled with youthful hope and zeal
I answered, "Anywhere."

"Wilt thou follow Me?"
Again He asked.
The road looked dim ahead;
But I gave one glance at His glowing face:
"To the end, dear Lord," I said.

"Wilt thou follow Me?"
I almost blanched,
For the road was rough and new.
But I felt the grip of His steady hand
And it thrilled me through and through.

"Still followest thou?"
'Twas a tender tone,
And it thrilled my inmost heart.
I answered not, but He drew me close,
And I knew we would never part.

Author Unknown

A couple of years ago, I bought a book at a homeschool curriculum fair called "Poems For Memorization", I have had the kids memorize a few poems out of this book...not as many as I would like, but I still plan to have them work on it throughout their school days. This poem was in the book.

This poem touched my heart in numerous ways. It is about the heavenly Father begin with His children and never leaving them, no matter how rough the road of life becomes. There is so much comfort knowing that.


W is also for....

Waking up.

Every morning I wake up to the sounds of my birds singing, sometimes I feel like I live in a jungle! LOL

Their aviary light is on a timer and it automatically shuts off at night and turns on in the morning. I don't even need an alarm clock, my birds are my alarm clock.

Even though the aviaries are down in the basement, its surprising how loud 12 parakeets and 6 finches can be! They are especially loud first thing in the morning. It's like the wild birds outside when the sun rises. It's as if they are telling each other "Good morning! How did you sleep?" Sometimes, when I am really not ready to wake up, I wish they would keep their greetings down to a whisper!

Plus there is the jockeying for position, and the "pecking order" comes into play. It's as though they each have their favorite perch, and if someone "lower" in the pecking order sits on someone elses perch...boy does the chatter start!! It is so funny to watch them!

I have learned, by the sounds they make, if they are happy, mad, or scared. I think every species has their own language. If a human happens to own an animal as a pet, I think they should take the time to learn their language. It not only makes for a happier pet, it's really interesting as well!

Deuteronomy 31:6
"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."

ABCs of May?...OK June now: V is for...

V is for....

Vacation!

Right now, the kids are on "Summer Vacation". It is a vacation from our regular schedule, and a vacation from ordinary school work.

This week, we aren't doing anything school related. It is a total break from all state mandated learning. They are LOVING it!

Next week, we are going to start our summer curriculum. It consists of:
1. Doing something Math related every day.
2. Reading some good books.
3. Doing a Lapbook project on "The Chronicles of Narnia". We are starting with what is actually the last book in the series, but the first book chronologically.."The Magician's Nephew".

We aren't planning any big family vacations, as we have no money...but we are going to go camping at least twice this summer.

In a couple of weeks we are going to go to Mounds State Park for a few days. The kids studied Indiana History this past year, and a big part of our history is the mounds that the Indians built hundreds of years ago. Historians don't really know why the Indians built these mounds, but there are several of them at Mounds State Park (hence the name). It will be a great time of swimming, hiking, staying up late around the campfire, smore's, cooking out, bike rides, etc. It will also be educational and will help reinforce what they learned in Indiana History class.

Then, sometime the beginning of August, we are hoping to go to Springfield, IL with our camping buddies, the Feece family. This trip will depend on finances and whether or not I am working by then. If we go, we will be staying in one of the State Parks near Springfield, and as a day trip, we will go into Springfield and visit the Lincoln Museum. I'm really hoping we can go on this trip. I've been wanting to visit that museum for several years, and it will also be the only chance we have to go camping with the Feece's this year.

I am SO looking forward to these 2 trips.....I really need a vacation! LOL

Psalm 62:1 & 2
My soul finds rest in God alone;
my salvation comes from him.

He alone is my rock and my salvation;
he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.

ABCs of May?..Ok June now: U is for....

U is for....

Unbelievable.

*Okay...firstly...I was unable to finish the alphabet in May, but as I am not a quitter...I will finish the alphabet in June!!

Now, back to unbelievable....

I am continually amazed at the unbelievable grace and mercy of God. I had a situation this past week that was meant for evil, but God in his awesomeness turned it into good.

I have been under a lot of stress. Things just seemed to continue to mount on my shoulders. I felt the burden of school, of my looming final exam, and the possibility that I would not be able to complete the course before my year ends.

I also had the added stress of the kids final week of homeschool and getting all of those ends tied up.

Plus the thoughts of my husband coming up on a year of being unemployed, and the financial implications of that.

I was dwelling on the "what SHOULD be's" and I lost sight of the FACTS of God's abundant provision. I kept thinking about all the plans that we had made for the next few years, and how those plans are on hold.

In other words....I was very depressed! It was the most depressed I have ever been....verging on hopelessness and despair.

Then, in the midst of my literal dark cloud that was around me, I had a situation where a couple of people tried to cause strife in my marriage.

When I thought I could not take ANOTHER THING....God rescued me!

*I had a talk with my husband about school, and he told me to look into getting an extension so that I can have another month or two and I won't feel so pressured about my deadline.
*The kids final week of school could not have gone smoother.
*God continues to supply our needs...and I was able to pay the bills. Though Scott is out of work, our bills are not behind, and we have plenty to eat.
*I was able to talk with my really good friend and sister in Christ, who helped me to see that this short "diversion" from our plans for the future is just that a diversion, and this difficult time in our life will not last forever.
*And the plan of those to cause Scott and I to become torn apart backfired, and we are closer now than we have ever been. Our marriage is stronger, and our love for each other greater than ever before.

I am so thankful for a God who in my weakness, He is strong. That He continues to uphold me when I can't uphold myself, and He will use what is meant for evil and to hurt and will turn it into good.

Matthew 19:4-6
"Haven't you read," he replied, "that at the beginning the Creator `made them male and female,' 5 and said, `For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh' ? 6 So they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate."

ABCs of May: T is for....

T is for....

Tired.

Today I am very tired. Tired mentally, physically, and emotionally.

Today, I am tired of people and could very easily become a hermit.

Today, I am tired of problems and could very easily run away.

Today, I am tired of school and could very easily quit.

Today, I am tired of situations beyond my control and could very easily give up.

Today, I am tired of trying and could very easily stop.

Tomorrow is another day...and I will go on because I can't become a hermit, I can't run away, I won't quit, I won't give up, and I won't stop.

Hebrews 13:8

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

ABCs of May: S is for...

S is for....

Swimming!

When my sister and her family bought a new house last fall, the new house had an above ground swimming pool, so Cathy gave us their old swimming pool.

Yesterday, Scott started the process of putting the pool up.

















The mighty pool man!















The kids couldn't wait to get in!
















Then today....they were able to get in!! They've swam almost all day. I sure hope they didn't get burned!


The water was cold, but it soon warmed up, and they had a great time!

Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways acknowledge him,

and he will make your paths straight.

ABC's of May: R is for....

R is for.....

Robins.

I had mentioned before that we had Robins nesting 2 different spots around our house. Yesterday, Scott was able to get a couple of pictures of the baby Robins in each nest.

This is a picture of the babies in the nest in my Honeysuckle vine.

Here is a picture of the babies in the nest in my Chocolate vine.


It's interesting how 2 different sets of Robins built nest on opposite corners of my house and they each had 3 babies and the babies appear to be about the same age. It's been really fun watching the whole process.

1 John 3:16-18
This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. 17 If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? 18 Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.

ABC's of May: Q is for......

Q is for....

Quinoa.

Ok, most of you are asking....WHAT is quinoa?!? Quinoa is an ancient grain.

It is pronounced keen-wah.

It originated in the Andean region of South America, where it has been an important food for 6,000 years. The Incas, who held the grain as sacred, referred to quinoa as the "mother of all grains".

Quinoa was of great nutritional importance in pre-Columbian Andean civilizations, being secondary only to the potato, and was followed in importance by corn. In contemporary times, this crop has become highly appreciated for its nutritional value, as its protein content is very high (12%–18%). Unlike wheat or rice (which are low in lysine), quinoa contains a balanced set of essential amino acids for humans, making it an unusually complete protein source among plant foods. It is a good source of dietary fiber and phosphorus and is high in magnesium and iron. Quinoa is gluten-free and considered easy to digest.

Not only is quinoa incredibly good for you, it is easy to prepare and very tasty! You cook it like you do rice. It has a very mild, slightly nutty flavor.

Here are some recipes that use quinoa, some of them I have tried, and some of them I want to try eventually.

Quinoa Pudding
2 cups quinoa, cooked (basic recipe) ½ cups raisins
3 cups milk ½ cup shredded coconut
1/3-cup honey or ½ cup brown sugar 1 tsp vanilla
½ cup almonds or walnuts, ground 3 eggs, beaten
½ tsp cinnamon 1/8 tsp salt
½ tsp lemon or orange rind, grated 1 Tbs butter 1 tsp lemon juice

Combine all ingredients. Pour into greased baking dish or greased individual custard cups. Bake in 350-degree oven until set, about 45 minutes. Serve hot or cold, topped with yogurt, cream or apple juice. Serves 4-6.

This recipe was borrowed from an old favorite that originally called for rice. Quinoa substitutes nicely to almost any recipe designed for rice.

Chickquinoa Salad
2 cups cooked chicken, cubed 1-cup mayonnaise
1-cup quinoa, cooked (basic recipe) salt (to taste)
1-cup celery, diced paprika ¼ cup
walnuts, chopped

Chill all ingredients and combine. Sprinkle paprika on top for color. Serves 4-6 All sorts of variations are possible with this basic recipe. Try bean sprouts and water chestnuts, or grapes and pineapple. Quinoa will enhance many other salad recipes. Try quinoa in fruit salad or tuna salad.


Quinoa Salad

1 cup quinoa, cooked
2 cups cooked chicken, diced
1 cup whole pecans, toasted
1 small shallot, diced
2 oranges
Romaine lettuce, torn in bite size pieces

Dressing
Juice of 1 orange
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
salt and pepper to taste.

Cook quinoa according to the package, put in bowl and allow to cool slightly. Add cooked chicken, and diced shallots. Peel oranges with knife, removing white pithy skin, and dice into bite sized pieces. Add oranges to bowl. Mix dressing ingredients. Pour over other ingredients. Mix gently, but thoroughly. Add toasted pecans, reserving 1/4 cup. Mix again. Sprinkle remaining pecans on top. Serve over romaine lettuce.

This is a picture of cooked, red quinoa.

Try quinoa....I think you will like it, and your body will thank you!

Genesis 27:28
May God give you of heaven's dew
and of earth's richness--
an abundance of grain and new wine.

ABCs of May: P is for....

P is for...

Proverbs 31:10-31

"A wife of noble character who can find?
She is worth far more than rubies.

Her husband has full confidence in her
and lacks nothing of value.

She brings him good, not harm,
all the days of her life.

She selects wool and flax
and works with eager hands.

She is like the merchant ships,
bringing her food from afar.

She gets up while it is still dark;
she provides food for her family
and portions for her servant girls.

She considers a field and buys it;
out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.

She sets about her work vigorously;
her arms are strong for her tasks.

She sees that her trading is profitable,
and her lamp does not go out at night.

In her hand she holds the distaff
and grasps the spindle with her fingers.

She opens her arms to the poor
and extends her hands to the needy.

When it snows, she has no fear for her household;
for all of them are clothed in scarlet.

She makes coverings for her bed;
she is clothed in fine linen and purple.

Her husband is respected at the city gate,
where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.

She makes linen garments and sells them,
and supplies the merchants with sashes.

She is clothed with strength and dignity;
she can laugh at the days to come.

She speaks with wisdom,
and faithful instruction is on her tongue.

She watches over the affairs of her household
and does not eat the bread of idleness.

Her children arise and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her:

"Many women do noble things,
but you surpass them all."

Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.

Give her the reward she has earned,
and let her works bring her praise at the city gate."

Whew….what an example this woman is! Some women read this passage of Scripture and get dismayed…I can’t really blame them! The woman that the author of Proverbs (probably Solomon) is describing could be compared to the modern day “Wonder Woman”!

The Proverbs 31 woman is also called the “Virtuous” woman. The definition of virtuous, according to Webster’s Dictionary is: “morally excellent”.

Let’s take a little closer look at the qualities of this woman that makes her “morally excellent”. Here is a summary of the Proverbs 31 woman according to the Matthew Henry Commentary. I have paraphrased it, but have tried to stay as true to the original as possible.

1. She is submissive to her husband, and he can trust her to manage his home well.

2. Her husband is happy with her, and she makes it her business to do him good and not harm.

3. She takes pleasure from her work, and does it to the best of her ability.

4. She is not lazy and does not waste her time.

5. She rises early.

6. She applies herself and is diligent in the tasks set before her.

7. She is a prudent manager of everything that she does.

8. She does not waste money on frivolous things.

9. She provides well for her house.

10. She encourages her household in the things of God.

11. She freely and cheerfully gives to others.

12. She governs her words and actions with wisdom and discretion.

13. She is prudent and gives prudent advice to others.

14. Her heart is full of love and kindness.

15. She knows that physical beauty is fleeting, but to fear God produces beauty that will last a lifetime.

16. She has a firmness that will bear up under disappointment and difficulties.

17. When she is old, she will find comfort knowing that her youth was not spent idly or uselessly.

18. She is a blessing.

19. Above all, she fears the Lord.

Here is a quote from the last part of the Matthew Henry Commentary on the Proverbs 31 woman: “Every one ought to desire this honour that cometh from God; and according to this standard we all ought to regulate our judgments. This description let all women daily study, who desire to be truly beloved and respected, useful and honourable. This passage is to be applied to individuals, but may it not also be applied to the church of God, which is described as a virtuous spouse? God by his grace has formed from among sinful men a church of true believers, to possess all the excellences here described.”

Proverbs 31 is one of my favorite passages of Scripture. It gives a beautiful picture of the “perfect” woman. I love that loving God and serving Him, hard work, and high moral standards are what God expects from women. I love that in this description of the perfect woman there is no mention of what size clothes she wears, how many wrinkles she has, or if she has any grey hairs. In fact, it makes a point to mention that physical beauty is fleeting but what is inside a person is what really matters. I love that though the list of qualities this woman possesses is long they are all “doable”; they are goals that each woman can try to attain. I, by no means, qualify as an example of the Proverbs 31 woman, but I am trying day by day to fulfill these goals.

ABC's of May: O is for......

O is for....
Olivia's Birthday.

Ok, so IDEALLY I wanted to write this post on Saturday, which was her actual birthday, but...it didn't happen. So, better late than never!

On Saturday, my baby turned 10!! I still can't believe I don't have any more single-digiters in the house!

Since it was Saturday, she slept in. When she woke up...the first thing she said was, "I don't feel any different!!" I asked her, "What, did you think 10 would feel different than 9?" She said, "Yeah, I thought I would at least be taller.....I don't FEEL taller!" I had to chuckle at that.

It's amazing how much emphasis is placed on turning older...and yet the difference of 1 day just doesn't feel any different!

She had a good day. Traditionally this is how we celebrate birthday's. The celebration doesn't start until supper time. The birthday person gets to choose what they want for dinner. After we eat, we do the cake and then they open presents. They get 3 presents, 1 from me, 1 from dad, and 1 from their sibling.

She was pretty patient until it got to be around 3:oo, then she started getting really anxious for the "party" to start! Scott ordered the pizza around 4:00, and he and the kids went to Plymouth to pick it up. I can't eat pizza, so I got to eat leftovers! :)

After pizza and cake, she opened her gifts. From me she got a couple of new outfits, and some clothes for her 18" doll. My mom actually made the doll clothes for her, because I am a terrible seamstress. From her dad, she got a Disney MP3 player, and from Travis she got a mini van for her dollhouse dolls. She was very happy with all of her gifts!

I just love having a daughter! She is so much fun. She is the ULTIMATE girly girl. She loves all things girl. Her favorite color is purple. She loves nice clothes and "make-up". She loves babies, and puppies, and kittens. Her favorite toys are stuffed animals, Polly Pocket, Barbies, dolls, and her dollhouse. She can be very helpful (when she's in the "mood"). Lately, she has LOVED helping me cook. It's actually fun having her help, because she is an actual HELP, and not a hindrance. She also has lately, liked going shopping with me. That too is now fun. She is getting old enough not to "beg" me for everything she sees, and willingly takes no for an answer when she doesn't get what she wants at the store. She is very smart and was able to skip a grade.

She has her faults too (like all of us). She is very stubborn, and loses her temper quickly. When she gets an idea in her head, it is very hard to persuade her otherwise. I am praying that those qualities can be used for good, because it is not always a bad thing to be stubborn. The quick temper thing needs to GO though!

I always wanted 2 boys, and when I first discovered that I was pregnant with her, I was hoping for another boy. As the pregnancy proceeded, God softened my heart, and I began to think that having a little girl might not be so bad. When she was born, and indeed WAS a girl. I can truthfully say that I was glad, and that I didn't regret that she was a girl.

Raising a girl is so totally different than raising a boy. In some ways boys are easier. I can already see "hormones" beginning in her, and that will certainly be a challenge when the time comes. How wonderful it is though, that God has created boys and girls, men and women to be so different.

I am so blessed to have the family that I have, with my boy AND my girl!

Psalms 127:3-5

Sons are a heritage from the LORD,
children a reward from him.

Like arrows in the hands of a warrior
are sons born in one's youth.

Blessed is the man
whose quiver is full of them.
They will not be put to shame
when they contend with their enemies in the gate.