So, last week I updated my blog to have the power go out just before I added it! I wrote about how my husband was working building a garage for a neighbor and needed help. Most of the days he had our 16 year old daughter help but this particular day she was heading for piano lessons and he asked me. I had wanted to share that I think EVERY wife ought to work with her hubby once in a while. It really makes you appreciate him. It was a hot muggy day and he was walking around on staging and edges of the roof putting on strapping getting it ready to put on the metal roofing. I stood on the staging clinging for dear life passing him tools, afraid I would fall to my death! Dishes seem very interesting ( defined, safe) after that.
Now this week I have a totally different thing to share. When you recited, "for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, till death do us part." Did you really mean it? Did you ever wonder what would happen and how you would cope if any of the 'bad' things happen or were you, like me, to starry eyed with dreams of what life would be never imagining it could be that bad?
Saturday we all worked all day building a new hay barn. At one time or another we were all up on the staging and ladders. My wonderful hubby put a brace up to make us feel safer. I admit, I don't like heights. Around 6:20 he sent me in to start dinner and the girls to do barn chores. Minutes later I heard my 16 year old daugher screaming my name and saw her running toward the house. "MOM! Dad fell off the barn roof and is lieing there and can't move!" I didn't know I could run so fast! My daughter had the level head to grab my pocketbook and keys and drive the car out to the barn.
To make a very long story shorter 5 days, two Emergency visits, two specialist appts, one hospitalization my husband is in a TLSO brace from his collar bone to below his groin. It's made out of the same material as PVC pipe and doesn't breath well. He can't get out of bed or in without help. He can walk short distances to prevent stiffening and atrophy of some muscles. He can't shower, use the toilet without help or dress himself. Neither can he walk alone, bend, lift or twist. He won't be working for at least 3 months and then only limited jobs. He's a self-employed carpenter with no insurance or disability and now no income.
Although he is humanly "worse, poorer, sick" the Lord is showing me the heart of my husband. I've always known he was an awesome guy but it bothers him that there is no income. Why? not because he can't buy that new truck or gun or tool but because he wants to provide food, shelter and, Yup, school supplies for his family. He is troubled that we are not going to be able to 'keep our word' and pay our bills. Yes, he's sicker than he's ever been but through the pain he's worried about me. He's afraid when I lift him that he's going to hurt me. He is worried about waking me during the night (we gave him a bell) to come down and take him to the bathroom, get his meds or give him a gentle massage because he's having muscle spasms. He knows I'm exhausted and he's worried about it. He's concerned that the girls are working too hard filling in for him in outside barn chores. He's worried about the regular bills and the mounting medical bills. My husband desires to fulfill the role God gave our husbands to be providers. The girls and I are fulfilling the role of nurturer, caretaker and helpmeets in taking care of him. At 2:00 in the morning at the hospital he woke up and asked me to read him scripture. After I finished he said, "Sometimes I just need to be reminded that my Savior is in all this." Tonight I heard him tell an unbeliever that God was in this and He had a plan that will be better than we can all imagine!
No, this isn't the fairytale I envisioned 30 years ago. No, I don't love my hubby like I did 30 years ago I love him in a much deeper way and sooooooo much more!
Yes, this is very hard. I'm exhausted. I have mountains of paperwork to fill out for financial payment plans ( Funny I think I got more attention from the financial services when they saw "No insurance" than he got from the nurses!! )but I know God is working. I know God has been leading up to this moment for a long time and I know He's going to do wonderful things for our family. The waiting time is difficult but I imagine myself sitting back and watching what the Lord is going to do so I can brag on Him!
We have had a VERY busy year as you can tell from the fact that my last entry was in January!!! We took up a quilting class so that my youngest could make a Depression era quilt for her school project. WARNING!!!! Don't do this if you don't intend to get thoroughly addicted to quilting!! The three of us are goners!
The EXCITING news is that after a few very hectic weeks of finishing projects, having a performing arts/project fair, two weeks of natural horsemanship clinic, visiting relatives out of state (and getting the flu while there) and having our year end evaluation done, I'VE JUST SEALED AND STAMPED OUR EVALUATION AND LETTER OF INTENT FOR NEXT YEAR AND AM MAILING IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! What a great feeling! Although we continue through the summer in a natural, classic way and do a couple math lessons a week, for all intents and purpose we have fulfilled our legal requirements! Actually, we did more days than the law requires because we were in the middle of WWII and didn't feel we should leave our boys overseas fighting while we enjoyed a vacation.
One of our most exciting and interesting projects this year was the girls Depression book. They interviewed either in person or by mail, people who had lived through it, made recipes and meals from that time period and compared costs, studied and talked to people who were children living through the Great Depression and many other aspects. Their book includes entertainment of the time and at least one great invention of the time: The Tollhouse cookie! (That is the infamous Chocolate chip !)
It is such a wonderful feeling to be able to close the 'official' planner and move on with other interests if only for a while. I Praise God that we are still able to choose homeschooling for our children.
Recently I was in a group with ladies that were extreme contrast in beliefs. One is a 'career woman' who flies a few times a week to various offices for her work. The other end of the extreme was me, the homeschooling, farming, gardening, stay at home Mom ( CAREER WOMAN!). One comment that came up was "What needs to happen in our lives to make us happy with our situation?" As others were commenting on promotions, retirement, pay raises etc... there was much laughter and commenting until I said, "Nothing, I'm extremely happy and content." There was silence, strange looks and discomfort. I did think about adding a comment like, "But someone handing me $2000 to spend at a homeschool book and curriculum fair would give me a little thrill....." but I decided to leave it at that.
It seems that while these women are racing around trying to find happiness it's sitting right there in their homes waiting for them. Why has our culture fed into the lie that you have to have an outside career to be happy? I have to wonder and ask my Lord to show me where I have blindness but I praise him for pulling me out of the "career" mode years ago and bringing me to where I can spend time training my children for HIS Kingdom.
It truly is a GREAT thing that we can depend on our Lord to fulfill HIS promises eternally more than we can our favorite football team!
As a Mom I'd like to congratulate Mr. & Mrs. (Dad & Mom) Manning on having two sons quarterback the winning superbowl team two years in a row!
Okay, I admit it I am a PATRIOT'S fan. GO PATS!!! I wasn't always. I used to DREAD watching football or even having it on. When I was young my Dad would watch it so I'd head to my room at the complete opposite end of the house to sew. Back then (100 years ago!) my sewing machine would cause 'snow' on the TV screen so after fighting with the rabbit ears he'd tell me to stop. After I was married it was a time that my hubby would be intensely occupied and I couldn't bother him. Then a few years ago he said, "You know, I really would like it if you'd TRY to enjoy football. I'd like to have you watch it with me." So, being an obedient submissive wife (okay, trying to be) I forced myself to watch it with him. I admit I really don't totally understand the game but I have enough knowledge to know when good things or bad things are happening and when we score. It helped that this all coincided with the PATS actually doing well enough to be called a team!
Now we look forward to watching the games together and the girls love it too. We make special snacks the day before and get all in order. I even have somewhat intelligent talks via phone with my son about the games and players. He is TOTALLY addicted. For those gasping and worrying about our spiritual life and testimony where games are played on Sunday afternoons and evenings....DON'T ! Our church made the move a year ago to consolidate our service times. We start with A.M. service at 10:00 followed by Sunday school, then we all bring potluck lunch and share followed by clean-up and afternoon service. Most head home at 2:30 P.M. We have a few obligations after services but are usually home in time to watch the game. I'd like to say "to relax" but my hubby's recent actions cause a little stress when he cheers for the rival team! He likes to keep things going. He LIKES close scores!!! Incidentally, we don't pray for our team to win although we pray that those involved who have made their salvation public will play and act in a way that will support their profession of faith.
I am digressing from my title. Tomorrow is SUPERBOWL Sunday!!!!! We live in New England. For the past two weeks the SUPERBOWL mania has grown to a fevered pitch. EVERY store has join the cause. Even pet stores are offering doggie coats, beds, cat toys etc... with PATS logos etc... I admit someone gave my hubby a Tedy Bruschi shirt for his yellow lab!!!! That was a few years ago but we still have it and she still wears it during football games! Grocery stores have all you need for FOOTBALL FOOD. Folks are planning parties, trash talking the NY GIANTS is rampant. I saw a trash dumpster painted with Patriots colors. They even started our local news with, "Where In the World is Tommy Brady" for a few nights. Each night there is 1/4 news and weather with 3/4 Patriots frenzy. No, I don't mind, I'd much rather the comraderie of sports than seeing and hearing the presidential hopefuls repeating themselves trashtalking the other candidates.
Yesterday my heart was pricked with the thought, "We as believers, sons and daughters of the Creator, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, KNOW that HE is coming back, are we as excited and as involved as the country is now over the Superbowl? Are we doing as much to prepare for HIS return as we are for the Superbowl? Are we as open to discuss our Lord as we are the winnings of our team? Are we campaigning as much for our SAVIOR as folks are for their candidate of choice?" We're going to be hearing campaign speeches and promises for almost another year! Can you imagine?
What would it be like if we truly took to heart "Loving the Lord with ALL our heart, soul and mind"? What if we put Phil. 4:8 to work in our lives and only thought on these things, those which are ture, honest, pure, just, lovely, of good report, and virtuous? Do we "Go out into the world to preach the Gospel" as heartily as we will talk to a stranger about the "BIG GAME" I'm not saying we can't enjoy a hobby, sport or activity but we do need to be remembering our purpose, to honor and glorify our Lord and Savior, the King of Kings, Creator of all !!! Can you imagine the possible revival of our land if we were all as excited about our Lord as we are about sports, politics, quilting, stamping etc...etc....?
Just a thought.............................................. : )
I LOVE words! I think that constantly expanding my vocabulary is fun. When I hear someone use a word I don't know I itch to get to a dictionary and find out what EXACTLY it means. I don't settle for "in context".
Recently I was asked to speak at a ladies program and for a couple months I thought I 'knew' what the Lord wanted me to share. Well, life has been very confusing lately and stress has been trying to make it's home in my home!
As I sat to spend time with the Lord one morning, pouring my frustrations on to Him, He directed me to Proverbs 31. WAIT!!! Don't blow this off because you don't want to hear another Prov. 31 'lecture'! I got stuck on the word 'virtuous'! What do you think it means?
According to the WorldBook Dictionary it means, “good, moral, righteous, chaste and pure”. Okay, that is what I thought.
Whoa, and to think the world thinks Christian women are weak and oppressed! This is a whole lot different than the weak little righteous female definition.
The thing is, how do we do this? By focusing on the Lord and spending time with Him daily! Sure we learn in church what we are suppose to be like but I'm going to face different things each day than you are. I need to be fueled with the appropriate fuel for what He is going to put in my life, what I'm going to be facing each day.
I need to have my priorities in order. I have to put the Lord first, then my hubby and children then the others He puts in my life. If I'm out of whack so is everything else around me and I won't be prepared.
Think about military training. It is decisive, rigid and scheduled. I need to start out that way so that I'm available to be 'unscheduled' as the Lord leads. Notice I said, "Lord"? Not the phone, email, visits etc... I need to KNOW changes are of the Lord.
When presented with something out of my God given schedule I need to face it with the question, "What will this matter in eternity?" That will help me to know what to do.
We can get so involved in good things that we neglect our priorities.
Ministries even, get get in the way of our homeschooling. What message is that sending to our children? Are they important?
Let's look at Mary and Martha. I used to be and still struggle with being the epitomy of a Martha. When I’m Martha my family is disjointed, things don’t come together and we’re all out of sorts. I’m to busy doing the earthly necessities to see the spiritual necessities, the ones that are important, the eternal ones!
Luke 10:38-42* “….But Mary hath chosen that good part which shall not be taken away from her.” (Strong defines “good” as ‘of benefit’) Mary sat at Jesus’ feet basking in HIM while Martha was seeing to physical needs. There is a time and place for this but we need to remember that JESUS said, “Mary hath chosen that good part..."
Ask yourself, "Am I choosing the beneficial part? What good will this ____________ do in eternity?" Feel free to fill that blank in with anything that takes up your precious time. Phone calls, reading, cooking, cleaning, shopping, visiting..... Is your time taken up by things of eternal importance or just things?
Be ready for the battle, war-worthy and brave. Know your job and do it for HIS Kingdom!
If you would like a good laugh go to:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=130144061675
I'm not advertising because the bidding is over. Just read her description of the product. ( one that I would never buy anyway) But you will laugh......................
It's been a while since I've made an entry but God has been SOOOOOOO good.. make that GREAT ! He is showing us so many things. Change is not always easy for me, I think like most people I don't like to be moved from my nice familiar things! Even my car for example, I detest car payments but last week while I was traveling to and through Boston to get to my overnight accomodations I pulled off the highway grateful to be out of rush-hour traffic. I pulled into a road heading to the gas pumps when my car died! The girls said, "OH NO!!" I said, "Praise the Lord it wasn't 5 minutes ago!" While trying to get it fixed the dealership rep suggested I buy a new one. ICK! I'm comfy with my car, I know it and it knows me PERIOD. But I think God was reminding me to look at not only the areas He is showing us need change but all areas of comfort. No, we probably don't need a new car (Thank you, Lord!) but how about other things we use (and abuse) each day? Even those little things? Is He reminding us to be good stewards of the small things while He is showing us the big things?
Our Gracious Father is stretching our family. He is showing us that some of the things we've been taught are man's ways and not in line with HIS plan. It is SO easy to follow the crowd, you know, the ones with the "Christian" label on them? How about the ones that label themselves "conservative" and have all the man made rules to prove it? I am so grateful and so JOYOUS that he is pushing and pulling me to these changes, it's awesome, it's a priviledge and joy to be His servant again!
One a more humorous note my middle daughter is turning 16 in December. I've been "commencing to think "about a special gift for her. You know the sweet 16 memory gift......... I couldn't think of anything fitting until Sunday. She has really long thick hair which she had twisted and wrapped into a 'knot' hanging down. (It looked like a crueller!). She was standing in front of the children teaching a jr. church lesson and I was in the back. I thought that she looked very regal and it hit me that we should get her a strand of pearls! Not the million dollar kind but not plastic either!
Last night as we were all getting ready to retire I mentioned this to my husband. He responded so eloquently, "Dumb idea!" You really have to know my wonderful hubby to get the full effect of that. I asked why and he said that we were going to get her a 44 magnum! "A pistol? For her SWEET 16th?" I said. After some laughter comparing our thoughts we called her into our room and not telling her who thought what we asked her which she'd like. Without missing a beat she said, "A pistol!" I was shocked. I know she likes to shoot mine but I didn't know how much. Then she said , "But being a young lady I want pearls too." To which we replied (as you can guess), "You can't have both." " Well," she said, "I was hoping for pearl inlays on the handle of my pistol... I am a lady afterall!"
Yup, we're still laughing but there is that change again..............................
Do you find yourself worried about changes? About things that you're concerned about? I like to think that I am strong enough in The Lord not to worry and stress over things but yet again............... My two girls were at a Bible camp last week. One was a jr. counselor and the other a camper. I wasn't worried about them.. not really. I had so many things planned for this week while I would be alone, kids at camp, hubby at work.... I was going to cut out a lot of patterns for the clothes I want to make for Christmas. This way they wouldn't know. So much for MY plans! My wonderful husband ended up home for the week also! He needed my help with many things such as when the call came that our hay was ready in the field, lumber that needed cutting and planing, tractor stuff etc...
It was a bit frustrating at first but we ended up having some really precious time to talk about things we've been thinking and been burdened with but unable to share before. It's funny how we've been thinking about some of the same things regarding child rearing but hadn't taken the opportunity to talk about it yet. Last week we did that and a lot of praying. We knew that some of our changes might come a little hard for the girls but God is SO good! He is the One that planted the seed in our hearts and minds about the changes but we forgot that! When the girls came home bubbling with camp news etc... we waited for the right time to chat. The oldest came to me and wanted to talk so we sat out on a beautiful summer evening on the porch swing and talked. She was so burdened about lost souls and the change she witnessed in some who gave their lives to The Lord during camp. She wants to do more, she feels led to some kind of ministry. We talked about this for a while and I worked this into the changes we felt we should make in our home and outlook. It was amazing how they blended but even I admit some of them were big and perhaps a little out of the norm. (Don't worry, they're scriptural!)
My daughter thought it sounded good but wasn't sure how it would all work. THEN!!!! Yup, THEN!!! The Lord stepped in and started His work! He confirmed with us in many ways that this is the path He wants us to take and showed her by opening MANY doors that she was to follow! All within 24 hours!!! She thinks it's incredible that confirmation came from others in ways that can be only of God! These people didn't know what my hubby's and my burdens and prayers had been! Some of the folks we really didn't know that well. One was a missionary that we've spoken to when he's been at our church but we have never really had deep conversations with etc...
So, Why do we worry? If we only ask, HE will confirm where He wants us! I am still in awe of the events of the past 24 hours and today the blessings and confirmations have continued! God is SOOOOO Awesome, WHY do we fret????
How about you? Are you as human as I am? I feel like a V-8 commercial where someone bops me in the head and says, WoW I should have remembered that!!
SO much has happened since my last entry but through all of it I have known a real peace, the peace that only comes from my Lord and Savior!
We had our homeschool closing recital/program and it went really well. I was very pleased with the girls presentation of music and display of the Civil War. The had prepared a large display one with the a 3 x 5 foot Confederate flag as a background with Jeff Davis, followed by other Southern Generals and info about each. One was with a 3 x 5 foot Fort Sumter flag with Abraham Lincoln and other Generals and info. The two middle pieces were covered with navy fabric with white stars and on one they wrote about the key battles of the war and tracked it with the appropriate colored ribbons (grey if the south won, blue for the north) from battle to battle. The final part was pictures, reports and info about other people in the war including Clara Barton and pictures from their trip to Gettysburg.
They set the display in the front of our church and then had a 'musical battle' of instruments. The younger started with Yankee Doodle (yes, revolutionary but signifying the union) to which my older responded with "Dixie" they played about 4 songs each from their perspective sides. My oldest added the Ashokan Farewell on her violin which, although not a Civil War period song was the theme song in the movie "Gettysburg". Did I mention they wore one of the costumes we made for the Civil War era play they were in this past spring, "Little Women"? Hoop skirts and all.
Those that attended were very impressed with the program and their presentation. I KNOW my girls won't forget much of the information they learned about the Civil War this year. We were immersed in it!
What to do with this display when we were finished? We offered to loan it to our public library! They were delighted and were talking about pulling their Civil War books and offering a summer reading challenge!!
Yesterday ( you know this if you've already read KayinMaine's blog) we finally got to go to the Joshua Chamberlain museum here in Maine. It was delightful and informative BUT most of all it was rewarding. We studied the Civil War and General Chamberlain back in March and April but the facts my kids retained and things they new astounded me.
totally cooperating.
I must say that even though I've been homeschooling almost 20 years I can still learn new things about teaching and my kids. I learn tons about the subjects I teach but mostly I learn more and more about my Lord and Savior and His plans for me as a Mom. During my time as a Mom ( my oldest turns 27 Saturday) I have been given guilt trips for not allowing my kids in public school, I have been given guilt trips for not allowing my kids in Jr. Church or VBS. The important fact I continue to learn and must try to remember is that I'm not put on this earth to fit into man's boxful of traditions but to seek and discern what HE desires from me, how to be more like HIM. My first obligation is to my Savior (which doesn't neccessarily equal church***!) then to my husband followed by my children. I'm not here to please everyone else. Sometimes it is a lonely place humanly but spending time with my family and my Savior is never lonely!
I should probably clarify that above *** comment. My Savior and my beloved church are not one in the same! My church is part of the body of Christ and part of the bride of Christ but it isn't Christ! In the past I have fallen into the trap of all church activities being a priority even at the expense of my family. Don't get me wrong we need to fellowship together and be active in the church God leads us to BUT we don't do this at the expense of our relationship with our husband and children! That is hypocritical!! I pray daily for the Lord to continue to help me discern where I need to be, what commitments to make, what ministries to be part of, to help me remember my biggest ministry as a wife and mom is to help my husband raise our children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
I LOVE discovering over and over the blessings of being with my children and don't miss the career I once had. The career of raising these treasures for HIS Kingom far outweighs any career or carrer opportunities I have had. I can go back to my employment but my days with my children are more precious than I can say. It breaks my heart to hear someone say that it's okay that their child is in daycare because it's a Christian daycare! Isn't that simply going with the world's new traditions and trying to put a Christian label on it? Bottom line is that God loaned those children to YOU and if they're at a daycare YOU are not there!!!!! No, we're not rich, we struggle but trusting the Lord by obedience we see time and time again how HE provides! Often HE provides so well that we can share books or other things with others who are trusting.
I hope you have a blessed day training those treasures for HIS Kingdom!
I've been reading other's entries about their children's year end projects ( see KayInMaine and MaggieRaye) and thought they were great. We're working on a year end project also and I think it's going great but last night my youngest really "WOW'd" me with her creativity.
We're doing a Civil War project, one that is quite involved---possibly to involved I've been thinking! But I guess I was wrong. The other day my youngest (12) told me she wanted to make a model encampment for part of her display. We had some white fabric and wooden skewers so I gave them to her along with the trusty glue gun and she went at it. She was going to put it on cardboard but we had some extra styrofoam (used for insulating foundations-thank you carpenter hubby) so she started out at one end of it to build her encampment. This project has grown a bit BUT as she added painting the styrofoam green, then decided her soldiers needed water and added a stream and on to a mini roughly fenced off area for the horses and a larger tent for the generals... I realized that she had been very observant during our studies. She even made a cemetery, making me realize that although she loves camping she saw the casualties and reality of war.
Last night I noticed lots of little pieces of cut off skewers and fabric bits and mentioned to her that they needed to be cleaned up afterall, we might need our dining room table to.. perhaps... eat on? I was watching a dvd (on the civil war of course) and she was puttering around at the table. When I next went over there she had taken the scraps and made miniature cots, chairs (for the general) table, battle plan papers, candle for the table, rifles with bayonets etc...etc... with them! All with skewers, glue, white fabric and a little poster paint! She had cleaned up her mess but not thrown anything away!
Sometimes we have an illusion of what teaching and learning are. You know, teach this topic, make them do this, expect these results..... when all we need to do is present the facts, share in an interesting 'real' way and let them well, let them teach us! God has given our children wonderful minds. Think about the obvious, He created them for a purpose, they have what they need, our job is to instill, nurture and allow the Lord to expand what He created. I'm so glad He's chosen me to help with this task. Yes, even when the end of the year project fair is looming, even when things are totally crazy, even when....... Thank you Lord!
A funny thing happened last night. I think you’d call it a socialization problem. It is really to bad we homeschool and our kids miss out on this socialization stuff. You see, there is a real sweet couple at our church that we’ve become friends with. Their kids are grown and they are relishing in the delights of being Grandparents. He is the special music coordinator for our church. “His” birthday is 2 days before mine and months ago we decided we’d all go out to dinner the evening in between our birthdays. (We let our spouses think this was their idea! J Aren’t we nice?) The girls wanted to go also and Dad said they could as long as they stayed within a given budget. (Even he gets schooling in whenever he can)
So there we are eating our meal and having different conversations when a family comes in with two very sullen looking teens. It was obvious they were NOT happy to be there. Later another group came in with some loud, lewd teens. During this my girls were discussing what they have been studying and what pieces they’re working on with their musical instruments.
Dinner was delicious and the fellowship great. As we were walking through the parking lot I heard a car near the road with young adults (teens) screaming at each other and pealing out. As I turned to my group my 15 year old was discussing with the 74 year old gentleman the possibility of working together on a meditation piece for a church service. I was so blessed by this moment. Does our society have a generation Gap? No, I think not. More of an attitude gap!
I know my children aren’t perfect but I praise the Lord that we are able to homeschool and bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
So, what is socialization? Do my children have a lack of it? How about yours? Can they only ‘function’ with kids their own age or can they willingly interact with adults? Adults are who they will spend most of their life being. Now before any skeptic gets nervous and accuses me of not letting my kids be kids, read my previous blog about the giggling girls etc…
“For everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven……(Ecclesiastes 3:1)
Kayinmaine recently wrote an entry asking about our childhood memories. I decided to comment but as I "Commenced to think" (thank you Grandpa) I realized that my ponderings were to long for a comment and became my own entry.
I have some wonderful memories of my childhood. Most of those are from the summer when we would retreat to our summer cottage on a very private pond. Here I could escape the confusion of the public school life. I dreaded fall and the return to school. Although I liked new school clothes they didn't ease my anxiety of returning to the 'mill'. We would, by choice, hang out there. When young I would make pine needle villages in the pine grove. Sometimes my cousins would come over and we would create very elaborate villages from nothing but pineneedles, twigs and stones. This would go on for hours until someone would inevitably get the idea to 'add water'! Every village needs a water supply so down to the pond we'd go with a bucket hoping to add a mini pond. Okay moms, are you thinking of what dead pine needles, a little dirt and water equal? Besides lots of fun? A mess! That would lead us to the pond and the rock where Mom always kept a bar of ivory soap. Yes, ivory because it floats! She wanted people to know that she did try to keep us clean and if our soap floated over to Grandma's camp it would be proof she attempted!
Water and soap would lead to a game of throwing the soap and racing to get it which would lead to getting a little further and further from our camp which would lead us to a great place to catch frogs, which would lead us to...... Amazing! No beeps, clicks or electronics all day and we survived!
Rainy days we'd make fudge or cookies and play cards. We'd listen to the rain, read a book, sew and talk. Yes, it sounds idyllic and I do remember some bickering and arguing but mostly I remembered the dread I felt when the "Back to school" sales started. I had never heard of homeschooling when I was a kid.(Remember this was a 1/2 century ago-- ahem... only a 1/2 kids not a whole!) and saw no other alternative. Public school was the norm. I just dreaded it and hated moving back to our winter house. I remember being awake nights before the start of school, not being able to sleep. I look back at the anxiety and wonder, "WHY?" If you were in my situation do you remember people telling you that your school years would be the best memories of you life? Are they? I was involved in band, cheering, clubs etc... but I think of that part of my life like a soap opera! Who is dating whom? (This included some teachers too but we weren't suppose to tell our parents!) Who is 'kissing up' to get what they want? Which bathroom to use to avoid the cigarette smoke? Which hallway has few 'couples' making out in them? etc... etc.... Gee with this attitude I wonder why I homeschool!?!?
Memories and the work we do now for our children doesn't end at 12th grade or even college graduation or marriage. It is sorely disappointing and grievous to me to watch Moms who give up their guidance and spiritual growth when the children leave home. They seem to say, "My job is done now I can ignore the principles I've raised my children by and do what I want." I wonder if this contributes to Empty Nest Syndrome? I know it's caused problems in many families.
Last night as I was driving home from youth group with a car full of girls ages 12-16 I was wondering if I was out of my mind! It was Friday, hubby has been away all week and traveled home ahead of me because the girls wanted to get something to eat and it was 11:00 P.M.! As I listened to their giggles and antics I was reminded of Kayinmaine's blog. It's not just the teaching and books but the time and love spent that trains our children to be who they will be. We need to make sure we're training them in ALL ways to be servants for HIS Kingdom!
Teaching household skills to my girls is especially important but where will ferreting out that last particle of dust rate with taking a more leisurely morning in the middle of the week by inviting them all to snuggle under a big quilt and reading "Little Women"? Of course this isn't just a reading time. You know when it's over no one wants to leave so the tickling and giggling ensue and.................
When my oldest was born "old people" told me to guard every moment because it would go so fast. I wasn't thinking of it being gone, I was thinking of getting through diapers! (Yes, we used cloth ones back then!) Now I hear myself telling people, "Don't turn around or they'll be 20 years old!" I know it sounds so cliche but it is so true. Where does that time go? Make the most of your training time and memory time. You may be exhausted but you'll have eternity to rest!
Well, I feel like I can breathe this morning. I have had a very full plate with goals, projects and activities the past couple of months. !!!!! I finished with my one day a week at the hospital working to pay off my surgery bill !!!! I FINALLY got my taxes done and mailed on the last day! Am I a procrastinator??? NO ! My kids heard the word and didn't understand what it meant so of course, being a homeschool mom I couldn't just read it out of the dictionary, I had to show them-- hands on style -- right?? (if you believe that....) THE CANOE RACE has come and gone AND my two school-age girls were allowed the opportunity to be in the cast of "Little Women"!! KayinMaine was the sacrificial director! Watching her work with the kids was a blessing. Sure, we had bumps in the road but to see the children's faces last night when they were preparing, performing and after was incredible. They all thrived on it even through their mistakes. They all covered very well with great poise when they made a mistake. I don't think the audience ever knew.
I want to thank her devoted husband and Will who worked tirelessly fixing all the technical problems. These just kept cropping up! Thanks guys! The other parents all pitched in to help too. Parents all set such an example to our children with our actions -- this is all part of education and learning too!
Rehearsals and making costumes was a little tiring but my theme song was, "It will be worth it all, when we see Jesus, LIfe's trials will seem so small....." Bravo to all the kids and the director for a job well-done.
You know, as a parent that has 'headed things up" in the past I try to take time at the beginning of a project like this and through out it to ask myself "How can I be of most help?" One way any of us can be helpful is to realize that when we aren't the one in charge we don't know all the goings on and we need to support the director providing the issue isn't immoral, unscriptural or against the law. Sometimes that means taking on a big part of the project and sometimes it means just being there with encouraging words and actions.
The sad but humorous side of this is that I burned out my 20 year old sewing machine while making costumes. My beloved husband came in one night to find me slightly stressed that I had to go over seams 2-3 times to get them stitched. My machine was skipping stitches, squeaking and clanking. I have LOVED this machine since day 1. He suggested I go buy another. I couldn't use my girls machines either because they were sewing costumes too. It was a good thing that this play took place during the Civil War era. We are studying the Civil War and sewing time period dresses was a cultural experience! Buying a new machine was very emotional for me because that machine had seen my older two from toddlerhood through college and to the present. (I know, I'm a sentimental old fool!) I headed out in a snowstorm to buy the machine - hey, dress rehearsal was looming- and bought the machine. Now, there is one thing worse than having your sewing machine die while in the middle of sewing with a looming deadline! That would be getting home with a brand new sewing machine and finding out that the storm had caused a loss of electricity!
I read the owners manual from cover to cover, did about 6 hours of hand sewing, looked at my really old treadle machine and wondered where I could get a new belt for it , in a snowstorm, and then decided to take a nap. I had been up until 3:30 a.m. a few nights in a row and 5:30 a.m.comes early on those nights ! The girls thought I was crazy but I told them that this was the quickest way I knew of to get the power back on. Huh! they thought I meant my energy. I probably wasn't more than 14 1/2 minutes into my nap, you know that groggy, where am I, who am I, part of sleep when the power came back on!
My son was home from warm, sunny South Carolina this past weekend to run a canoe race with my husband. Keep in mind that this is April in Maine. That means the water was fast and COLD! It was about 38 degrees! They, as well as over 70% of those brave (read: crazy) enough to attempt the infamous 6 mile falls, went swimming! My son bravely tried to call out that he was tired after the first 10 miles of the race and thought he'd cool off. This was caught by the TV camera crew but not believed by many. As he admits, his voice was rather squeaky. They got separated and it took time to regroup so they didn't continue the race. The canoe (as well as hubby and son) were pretty banged up. The canoe has some impressive dents and popped some rivets (read: leaking) so the girls and I decided to take them to Olive Garden for some hot coffee and soup!
The hospital work is done, the taxes are but a painful memory, the play a wonderful memory and now back to regular days. I need to organize my school room. WHO am I kidding? I need to organize my house. There is fabric, thread, needles, pattern pieces etc... everywhere!
Although these events HUGELY impacted my usually organized school schedule they were all great learning experiences and time to be pulling together as a family. We will get the required schoolwork done and are even taking the girls on a mystery trip. Today, however, we will begin with devotion time with our Lord and take a walk on this glorious, sunny morning !
Again, another extra special thank~you and hug to KayinMaine (visit her blog, she's got loads of wisdom for one so young) for her sacrifice and dedication.
Have a blessed day training your treasures for His Kingdom!
As the massacre and the events leading up to it unfold we are struck with horror and the perversion and evil that walked among us. Watching the TV we see "man" trying to analyze every bit of information to see how we can spot someone this sick. Although the perpetrator had been in mental health and even institutionalized he was deemed safe to be released into society. Everyone is saying, "How could this have happened?, how could a loving God, if there is one, allow this to happen?" Back to the analyzing the experts go.
Before I go on I want to extend my deepest sympathy to the families and friends of the victims. The shock, loss and horror they are dealing with is unimaginable to me. I am praying for that same loving God to wrap His arms around them and comfort them.
The irony of the whole tragedy is that it is going to be an extended tragedy. We, mankind,are not really going to learn from it. There is a VERY clear message in this horror as there was in Hurricane Katrina, the Tsunamis and other events that have unfolded. Man is NOT in control ! Yup, I've dared to say it and even write it here. People are still arguing over who is to blame for the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. "Did the national Guard respond in time and correctly? Did the President react properly? How could this have happened in our high tech world? Why didn't we have the right information to deal with this ahead of time? etc..."
All of these events are shocking to us and it shows that the loss of life is devastating, hence lets begin to look at how we value LIFE ( abortion wasn't the theme of this blog but that thought just seemed to find its way here). Devastation from 'natural disasters' is secondary to loss of life even by the media ! The amount of lives lost in the VA Tech massacre is shocking to all of us, it breaks the record set by other similiar tragedies.
Where does a "Loving God" come into this people ask? First, do you notice that when something bad happens mankind immediately either turns to God or blames God? So tell me, is God there or not?
Our VERY loving Lord provided us with information! He had it all written down! The Bible has survived thousands of years of 'mankind' trying to destroy it. In His Word He goes as far as to tell us what is going to happen in this world! Imagine knowing the end of the story! He provides us with what we need during our trek on this earth and instructs us how to use it. He didn't make us puppets on a string or remote controlled robots but gives us the CHOICE to decide whether or not to follow the owner's manual.
In scripture our Loving Lord promises that judgement will come. He warns us that His judgement will be righteous and that we will all understand His judgement. He tells us that not one of us knows when our life will be over and we will have to account for the choices we've made in our lives. He tells us about the 'end times'. How many warnings do we need? It is written down in black and white yet we proceed on trying to figure out the why's and wherefore's of each event. We think that our great minds and technology can change the 'global warming' and psycho babble will change the human mind to be filled with love for all......
Do you think that by allowing these tragedies God is trying to tell us that Man is not in control ? We can't control the weather, we can't control the human mind, we can't control what is coming--- Only God can and when we refuse to acknowledge HIM as the Almighty, the Author of life, the Creator, the King of Kings He tries to get our attention. He doesn't want us to choose the wrong way any more than you would want your child to be making headlines like we're seeing this week. I believe that our Loving God is a the extreme gentleman. He doesn't go where He is not wanted. When man tries to be God by depending solely on themselves for the answers we overstep the boundaries. Can we learn from a tragedy like this? Can we see that we need to follow the rules our Creator set up? When little johnny comes home from a friends with a cut on his arm from throwing rocks through the neighbors window do we sue the neighbor for allowing their glass to cut our baby? Then when you ask little johnny why he did this because you've told him never to through rocks at glass and he says, "Well, Billy said it was okay." do you calmly say, "Well if someone else is doing it then it must be okay."? Sounds silly but isn't that what we're doing? Over the years our role models have changed. Parents dreaded hearing their child say, "I'm going to be a movie star!" Hollywood was looked at like Sodom and Gomorrah, now we idolize the sordid lifestyle of Hollywood, divorce, drugs, money etc... At one time there were standards for our athletes, now there are excuses for poor behavior. At one time we respected our politicians now.... Well, now our politicians play God by legalizing the sinful things they want to do!
Is it possible that God loves us so completely that He told us in the Bible that the end times would be filled with sin and tragedy as a warning? He is a Just God, His judgement will be right. "Every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord"
Mankind is playing God and doing a horrible job of it. God is giving us the choice to go our own way or follow Him but lovingly trying to show us that we are not in control that we are on the wrong course. We cannot control the evil in mans mind and actions nor can we control the weather or anything else that God has created. So who can? The Creator ! He's not 'up there' waving a wand of destruction, making people go on shooting rampages etc... that is each individual's choice. He is simply waiting for us to see HIM and choose HIm. He is allowing our own choices to show us what and who we are on our own. It is not a very pretty picture.
I hope that these horrific tragedies cause people to think about their day to day life and choices realizing that God is there waiting, he's holding out His hand and His eternal love for us. He offers us Heaven with Him for all eternity. Why do we go on ignoring Him and choosing our own way? Are these tragedies showing us a glimpse of the horrors of hell? It is no doubt showing us life apart from God.
Man has chosen to live apart from God. God is allowing it but He is waiting for us to see where our own choices have gotten us and offering every opportunity for us to turn to Him in all things before it is to late.
What will your choice be today?
To start off I beg my son NOT to answer that!
I'm almost done with my working out one day a week ! I will have my $16,000 hospital bill paid off in the next 4 weeks!!!!! I'll be home all week with my extreme blessings! After my day working out each week I run errands on the way home. We live almost an hour from Wal-mart therefore if I'm out I do what needs to be done. This can make for a very long day and I'm very tired at the end of it.
This week I was in line to checkout at Walmart at about 5:30pm. I was tired. There was a family in front of me that consisted of a Mom, a new baby girl, a grandmother and a little boy I'd guess to be around 4 years old. He was into everything. He grabbed those specialty pencils from the display and proceeded to shoot me with them, he opened candybars, grabbed much of the display material etc... He was loud and totally ignored his Mom. She, or Grandma, would occassionally turn to him and tell him to stop and then turn away. He didn't stop and they had no clue what he was really doing.
There was a problem with Mom's card and that took up some time. I could have been loading my purchases onto the belt but little Johnny was in my way. I did say excuse me a few times but to no avail. Eventually Grandma noticed and told him to move. He didn't. She noticed again and grabbed him by the shoulder and moved him. I quickly slipped to the front of my cart and started unloading (50 lbs salt blocks X3, 40 lbs of dog food etc...) and heard him say, "Wasn't that nice of me to move for that lady?" I almost choked.
At that point the cashier asked about the baby and the gushing started. Then something heartbreaking happened. She asked about the boy. Mom said that he was 4 1/5 and the cashier said, "They're so cute and sweet at this age(pointing to the baby) but then they get this age (pointing to the boy).
The mom replied, "I know, the thrill is gone at this age."
Cashier: The good thing is that next year he'll be in school.
Mom: I know, I can't wait.
Grandma: Then we'll have a little peace.
Cashier: But only for 1/2 a day.
Mom: Our school district is looking into all day Kindergarten.
Cashier: I wish they had that when mine were little.
Grandma: Well at least then she (indicating her daughter) will have her life back for a time before this one becomes a brat.
(Johnny at this point has walked away and is taking all the display from the eye care office and trying them on, then he proceeds to an empty cash register to mess with that and is flipping the light on and off - all going unnoticed by Mom)
Cashier: Thank God for school.
Grandma: Ya, let them deal with him and good luck to them.
I don't know about you but I was shocked! I couldn't believe this attitude. I was hurrying through my errands to get home to the family God has blessed me with. I couldn't wait to be home with them. I feel a little guilty when I get home and am tired and can't always give 100% to my kids but to ignore this whole thing!
I count it a blessing and priviledge to be home training up the children God has blessed me with for HIS Kingdom. Why does society look upon children as a bother and nuisance? Remember, we're not talking out of control high school kids (that are the product of this neglect for too long). Why do folks talk with dread about "having" to go to a soccer game etc.... Yes, sometimes we're weary and have to use a little more prayer to get moving to that practice etc... but the look on the kids faces when they 'do good' and then look to you for approval is worth it everytime.
Ask your kids what was special about this past Christmas. Will they tell you about a gift they received or about a 'moment'? I did this recently and the answers were 'moments'. Those times spent with their brother and wife that were able to come home this year, the older sister that spent most of the day with us, the aunts that traveled the distance to be here, the laughter, pranks etc...
On the way home I 'commenced to think' and asked the Lord to always remind me to look at my children through His eyes, seeing them as His unique jewels. I need to see their strengths and their weaknesses in order to train them for His Kingdom but I need to see treasures.
When I got home the girls came right out to help with groceries. One of them served me dinner that she had made and then they proceeded to put all the groceries away without being told to. I did have to jump up when one called out, "Help! I need a container!" She had dropped the milk jug and it split at the top. Then I sat down and finished my dinner. It was fantastic too! I felt a little hand and realized that I had dozed off. My youngest said, "Sorry to wake you mom but I needed to get your plate, it's the last one left to wash. I didn't mean to wake you."
What tender hearts and sweet spirits the Lord gave these girls. I don't know why He felt I was worthy of raising them for Him but I'm glad He at least is still entrusting them to me for this season. Yes, there are those days that are a little more stressful and things don't go right but to wish them gone? No, I would rather wish them here forever but that shows my selfish side. I need to remember I'm training them for His glory and His KIngdom and His plan.
When things get a little crazy and out of hand, ask the Lord to let you see these treasures through His eyes, for His purpose. I bet it will help you calm down as well as see your purpose and value to the KING OF KINGS!
Last week I finished ,or should I say started and finished, reading Karen Kingsbury's recent creation, "Ever After". She has not only done it again she has REALLY done it! I takes a lot to move me to tears at the end of a book but this one had me in tears about a third of the way through all the way to the end! It is a great read.
Now that I probably broke rules posting that endorsement let me explain why I chose to post it. When a book, especially a novel, can move one not only to tears but into action I believe it is a good read. This creation caused me to dig deep and think. I already agreed with Kingsbury's take on the situation but I still could not put it out of my mind. It caused me to ask myself why I believed thus. Was I told or indoctrinated this way as a child or are my political beliefs valid?
After much thought I sought out some WWII veterans (I'm not biased against Vietnam vets, I just haven't found any to talk with yet) and asked them to have lunch with my family and share their experiences. We haven't completed all the gentlemen we want to talk with but so far it has been a very successful experience. I must say I did wonder how my 11 and 15 year olds would take to this. Would the gentlemen avoid the conversation because it would bring up to much pain or would he talk on for so long and jump from one thing to another so that we couldn't follow his line of thinking? My husband and I decided to run the risk and go for it. So far my children have been thrilled and stated that they found it very interesting and want to talk with more veterans.
This came with multiple blessings. Not only did we have a learning opportunity but also emotional, spiritual etc... We got to know this man and his wife better, we made a tie between 3 generations that I think is so important in this day and they said that we were a blessing to them too.
How does your child view the older folks in their life. Are they just cranky old people who are always telling them to be quiet in church? Do your children see the connection from the past and our nation's history to these people?
A couple of years ago I was priviledged to give the eulogy at my Grandmother's funeral. She was 95 when she passed into Glory. I had spent alot of my childhood in her company and knew much about her childhood. What amazed me as I was putting my facts together and in order for this was what she had seen in her years. She had talked about courting in a horse and buggy! Her Mom died when she was 11 and she and one sister were alone during the winter and chipping cranberries out of the ice to survive on. They didn't have a phone etc.. and couldn't get out to get help. When she passed away many of the family corresponded by email and then traveled great distances to the funeral service in very comfy automobiles. Quite a span there isn't it?
Our wonderful Lord has provided us with "Free" living curriculum in our grandparents and other elderly folks around us. Don't let this opportunity go to waste. You can be a blessing a receive many blessings! Ever notice how the Lord does that?
When you read "Ever After" make sure you have a whole box of tissues with you. It won't read like you normally expect it. Even though it is a book you will say, "Oh, how could Kingsbury do this to me?"
Enjoy!
I've mentioned before that I've been homeschooling for almost 20 years. This week however, has brought some new questions and comments my way about homeschooling. My 15 year old is taking driver ed at a local public school. My kids are very active in art, music (multiple instruments each), drama, speaking etc... They are always busy inside and outside the home. Some of the other students in her driver ed class asked her where she lived and why they didn't know her if she lived in the school district. She mentioned that she was homeschooled. The following are only SOME of the questions she received:
"Do you just roll out of bed and grab a book or don't you bother getting up at all?"
"How do you learn math if only your mom teaches you?"
"Do you get recess?"
"Where do you eat lunch?"
"Do you have homework?"
"Are you a normal kid?"
"Do you get to go shopping?" To which another student replied, "Of course not! Everybody knows all homeschoolers live off the land, they're back to nature people!"
"How do you serve detention?"
"How do you expect to find a boyfriend?
"What do you do with all your extra time, isn't it boring?"
"Do you have any friends?"
I really thought that homeschooling had become popular enough that the answers to these questions were common knowledge. My daughter and her homeschooled friend (both taking the class together) thought it hysterical! "Bored?" says she, "I don't know what that means!"
I did ask someone at work today what they picture when they hear of a homeschooled child and her response was refreshing, "I picture a child that is educated at home because the parents are very focused on that child and their education. I see a well rounded student who usually has outside interests like music, ballet, 4-H etc... When a homeschooled student calls me to offer their services I know they have a more flexible time schedule and can work during hours that are difficult for me to fill. I know that generally they are very polite and can communicate well."
After telling me about this experience my daughter thanked me for homeschooling her. She is appalled at the manners or lack of them and the disrespect shown for the instructor. She is disgusted by the learning environment in the school with all the talking and distractions as well as foul language. I found it interesting that not only was she grateful for what she considered better learning opportunities but that she said, "If I'd been in that situation as long as they have I'd be just like them! Thank you for homeschooling me!"
Maggieraye first tagged me with the 7 weird things about myself. I SOOO wanted to just list 7 of my friends!! My only problem was how to list them 1-7 !!!! :-)
I'll attempt this, hoping my son has forgotten my password! He may decide to add a few.
#1. I love frogs but detest toads
#2 I love potatoes, onions, milk, clams but hate clam chowder
#3 People who zip their Bibles during prayer REALLY irritate me!
#4 I invent weird games like table surfing (broke the table dodging the light) and blowball (the teens love it)
#5. I have lots of grey hair which shouldn't be in one so young!
#6 When I get a flat tire it becomes an epidemic--- 3 last week!
#7. I love my kids and love staying at home with them being a wife to my hubby and mom to our treasures. I can't even imagine a better life than this eternal one. (I know most of you won't think that is weird but I was out yesterday and heard that women who stay with their kids all the time and don't work never have a life!!!!!!!!!!!!!!)
As many of you know, I am temporarily working out of the home 1 day a week. During this time of year the conversations at work come up about NOT saying the wrong thing.... you know,,,,, the dreaded, offensive, vulgar,politically incorrect....'MERRY CHRISTMAS!"
This really has riled me in the past. I even boycotted our local Walmart one year until they changed their "Happy Holidays" greeting to include the "Merry Christmas" greeting. This year however it started to bug me again until I realized anew that God will not be mocked and that ultimately He WILL BE GLORIFIED!
In the department I work in there are 5 other employees and many, many people in and out all day. This week someone said the politically offensive phrase and was reminded about it the ban. I, for once, bit my tongue while trying to quickly pray for a good response. The Lord opened a door, (did you know He does that more if you shut your mouth? I think the mouth and doors are connected!) I was asked how I felt about it. Boy! Did that leave an opening! The discussion ensued to folks saying how foolish it was and now even to rename Christmas trees, holiday trees. I mentioned that the term holiday tree shouldn't be allowed either, in fact, trees shouldn't be allowed. The others looked at me like I was crazy. I have not hidden my belief in God or my stands so this comment was shocking to them until I said, "Well, Who made the trees? Isn't there a connection there too?" They all laughed and then continued on commenting and asking why we should hide our beliefs for the sake of others who don't hide theirs.....
I realized through this that God was using a bad situation to bring more thoughts to HIMSELF! If only I could remember that HIs ways aren't our ways! Other comments during the conversation led to other more 'meaty' questions and thoughts. I am eager to see how the Lord waters and produces those seeds.
Instead of being bogged down by the enemy's attacks we should rejoice in watching how the Lord used them for His Kingdom!
Have a very meaningful CHRISTmas!!
Yesterday the girls and I made puddings, pies and breads. As we were finishing up the conversation, of course, came to 'thankfulness'. It was surprising to hear my 15 year old respond so deeply. She was thankful that she was adopted ! During our pre-adoption counseling we were told that in the teens the kids wouldn't want to talk about it because it would make them different and this would most likely be the time they held resentments. My mind was whirling and then she continued with, 'If I weren't adopted I might still be in an orphanage or on the streets or worse, dead! Not only was I adopted into a a fun loving family but one that loves the Lord. I know we're not perfect but I think we're trying to be conformed into His image. I know that God hand picked me to be in this family so I could know Him and I'm very thankful for it." What could I say? Tears streaming down my face I was truly humbled.
This planted a seed of thought in my brain which didn't take root until this morning, early, while putting the turkey in the oven. In essence she is saying that she is thankful for one of the biggest trials in her life thus far, being placed in an orphanage. One of my favorite books of the Bible is James and this makes me think of the trials that it talks about and the "perfect work,.... wanting nothing....". Do I thank the Lord daily for my trials? Not just the broken glass (of which we had 2 yesterday) but the real disturbing or painful trials? The ones that go on for weeks, months or maybe even years? Do I see this as not only God helping me to grow but others also. The molding of a man?
It is easy to thank the Lord for the unexpected check in the mail or finding the lost book etc... but to THANK Him for the trials? Do we remember that the trials are either allowed or ordained by God to help us be "Conformed Into HIS Image"? He is helping us become a better person! If I think back to the heaviest trials in my life I see two things. The first is if I was of heart and mind to deal with it myself and be frustrated it got worse until I was of heart to turn the trial over to God and trust Him then I realize that I wasn't carrying the grief alone. Looking back, those times of trial when I trusted HIM are when I grew the most and became closer to HIM. Isn't that alone reason to be thankful for trials?
This year instead of waiting to make a new year's resolution I'm making a Thanksgiving Day resolution to try to remember to be thankful for the trials! I have an ongoing burden that I can't do anything about but my heavenly Father can. I need to remember that he is at work and I need to be thankful.
Have a blessed Thanksgiving celebration today.