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3:17 AM, Aug. 12, 2008
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I have added a new blog where I am reviewing products and services geared for the home educator. I am in the running to become an offical reviewer for TOS, but need your help... check it out and please leave a comment! Blessings!!! www.homeschoolblogger.com/LogCabinLife/ What is your SIGN?
10:09 PM, Jul. 6, 2008
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Bet you are thinking........Whoa cowboy! This is a Christian site!! Well, as my granny used to say - don't get your panties in a bunch! Actually this question I ask is a very serious one, but it is NOT what you think - that is if you were thinking the way the world thinks. Here is why I ask... I am working on a project. I am recording -before and afters - in Christ. If you held up a sign, one side who, the other your after in Christ what would each side say? For instance: One side might read: DEPRESSED The other side: Hope in Christ One side might read: Addicted or Abused Other side: Freed from bondage through Christ Something from my 'other' blog...
12:32 AM, May. 18, 2008
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I have several other blogs, one political, another for drama camp - I am working on one for children's ministry. I also blog for a corporation and have recently been hired to help a new business start a blog. I have neglected Homeschool Blogger... please forgive me.I wanted to share something I wrote recently - fair warning - it is political. I have shared it with other freinds; my HSB buddy KellyQue has encouraged me to submit so others will see it -- newspapers, etc -- any ideas? Tell me what you think of this: All Aboard??Are you climbing back on the train?I keep feeling like I am in a cartoon and trying to get on the RIGHT train bound for the White House - First I climbed aboard the most beautiful Red, White and Blue Train. It felt new, clean and pristine. It was the Thompson Train - I even got to blow the whistle! - Then it was as if someone forgot to load the coal, for as soon as the steam began to fuel the momentum, it went cold, fizzled and the train pulled into the political graveyard. So I climbed off, wandered through the train yard trying to find my way to the truth train, the one that would take me to the promised land. Then I saw them, the other trains bound for Washington DC, One stood out as the train to take - alot of money had been spent to refurbish it to make it seem safe - so I climbed onto the Mitt Romney Train. This time I got to meet the engineer and I was impressed, just as I threw my heart over the bar, then as quickly as the train started, he drove his train into the sand pit. A dull thud. No where to go but off the tracks. I found out, that many of the other passengers on the Romney train had also been on the Fred train. No we all just walked around in a daze, lost - confused. Then the engineers of the Fred and Romney trains gathered around a large podium and explained that there was only one more train left and we had better board it, along with them if we really believed in the first train. They explained that some of us might not like the smell if this train, as it had been down the tracks once before and it still had not been thouroughly washed before this trip. We pointed out the other trains, they were much smaller. One was pure white, with a large cross on the side. The other smaller train, had a large arrow that said one way, no compromise. The we noticed another train, still in production, it was amazing. It was the largets of all the trains, it seemed to have everything we wanted to ride the rails - we asked: "would be ready before the trip?" The answer was curt "there are only two tracks that head to the White House, only one goes all the way, there is no third track that can go all the way". We would have to wait until 2012 before this train would be ready. So, reluctantly, we got on board the only train left. The one that Fred and Romney told us to board. I hide my face behind a mask, I did not want any of the others,, those who I told I would never get on this train, to see me and ridicule me... as the train pulled away from the station, the stench overwhelmed me at first, but somehow, after a few hours I didn't seem to notice the smell anymore. The I decided to relax and go along for the ride, see where it would lead. I went out on the deck of the train, just to get some fresh air...the scenery of the American landscape brought nostalgia to my mind, I began to believe I was on the Right train. It wasn't perfect, but it was loaded with armement and followed closely by jet fighters, I felt safe. Until I saw... him... the engineer... he was a hot tempered little man, wearing an old military uniform. He was pulling a lever. Then I noticed the track, it shifted. The train began to turn...seemingly left... but it wasn't a sharp turn... just a gradual sway, it was hardly noticed by most of the other passengers. We made a stop in Minneapolis, a big rally before we finished the trip to the White House. As I got off the train, I heard a noise, it sounded like a rock concert, then I saw it...another train. t was Green. It was the biggest train I had ever seen. It was surrounded by a crowd, and they were yelling something about change. I was afraid of that train. Then I turned around and saw the name of the train I had been on and I felt betrayed by Fred and Romney. I felt like I have been punched in the stomach. The name: McCain Train. I think I will walk -- and maybe spend a bit more time in the Lords presence, follow His lead on this journey to the White House. I don't think I like trains so much anymore. Ya think?
10:55 PM, Apr. 16, 2008
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I am ready - more than I have ever been - to step into the place He has prepared for me to be. To be a writer. My writing is not grammatically correct, and the typos, well... refer to an archived blog for my opinion on that. That being said, what the world sees as imperfect writing, not fit for publishing, God is using. Isn't that what it is all about? He has created me to be a writer. I have written in private journals for more than 40 years. I sometimes reread what has been written and am taken aback when I realize it was my hand which penned the words. I am finally at a place to share beyond my bedroom door. I can only do this because of the strength He has given me. He is whispering to me... I am listening... Listening...
10:49 PM, Apr. 16, 2008
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I am listening, intently. All around me, He speaks. He is whispering to me through the teary eyes of a preteen girl. He shouts at me through a inner city kid who wants to crump. He looks me straight in the eye across the dining room table. He winks with the laughter of a trusted friend. I hear Him. In the early morning rain and the afternoon breeze. In the still of the night. Through a sleeping child's breath. The shriek of the eagle guarding her nest and the buzz of the hummingbirds gentle wings. Beyond His creation to the world I listen. The roar so loud it threatens to drown Him out, it is almost deafening, yet, His whispers rise above it all. I hear Him. He speaks to me. Because I believe. If only...
12:07 PM, Apr. 11, 2008
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It was wonderful.... I awoke this morning and I looked out side and here is what I saw... The trees brimming with green leaves, the pond alive again... I saw two ducks searching for a nesting place among the trees.... Then I heard this annoying buzzing sound.... Where is that coming from? I turned and found myself facing my pillow - ugh! So with trepidation...I got up and looked outside... then I knew... It had only been a dream! This is what is called reality in Minnesota!  So much for global warming.... ;( I'm done!
12:01 AM, Apr. 1, 2008
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Fine... I am finished. No more blogging... I have had it. No one ever comments on my blog. IT is very sad. I go to your blogs and I leave comments. So what is the point. You think I just like to talk about issues that are dear to my heart in public for my own kicks and giggles? No I want to share, maybe it can help someone else in some way. I have alot to say. I have even done the random blog thing. That is how I met most of my friends here, randomly. So how come you read but don't comment? That is kind of weird. Creepy almost. I am just going to quit. Why don't you comment, is it because my blog is too plain, no fancy borders or pretty music... no banners... or flashing widgets?? Can anyone hear me?? Am I alone in the blogging world??April Fools! Gotcha!! Hey... I actually like to write random thoughts and if someone comments... thats a Bonus, but I don't write for the responses, I write because I am led to do so... I pray maybe what I have to share might help someone somewhere, find their own path to God's heart. Maybe He is using me to help others, and I will not ever find out. Maybe someone read my blog and they prayed to give their heart to Jesus...or maybe I made someone laugh, in the midst of a sad day. Maybe I got someone riled up with my boldness and it caused them to take action. Or maybe no one reads my blog at all and it is just good old therapy for me. I am not quitting... hopefully y'all are forgiving for my little joke! : ) Will spring ever arrive?? Beyond the Cross
11:40 PM, Mar. 31, 2008
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Hello friends,It has been nearly 2 months since my last entry and alot has taken place in my life in these past days.... My mother went to be with Jesus on Jan 28th, the same day rehearsal began for our Easter Production of Beyond the Cross. A play written by Lowell Lundstrom, about Jesus through the eyes of Thomas. I played Veronica, the woman with the issue of bleeding. This was by far the most challenging role I have ever played. Veronica was someone who had been ill for 12 years, bleeding.... I imagine what it must have been like for her back in those times, cursed, frail, unclean... yet, she believed if she could only touch the Messiah's garment she would be healed, and she was. That was faith. I feel as if I was meant to play this role, for I have walked in the same shoes as Veronica. Weak and frail, disease ravaging my body, the ability to bear children removed from my life. Yet, I walk in faith, believing in miracles. No matter how many times I get knocked down, I get back up. I am healed, I continue to overcome, through the blood of Christ. The crucifixtion scene was nearly unbearable to do. It was real, every time. I wept every time... I wept from my soul. Now, when I daily go to the cross, I am there, understanding more than I ever have before what it means for someone else to take my place. I am humbled to have been chosen to be a part of this production, it was a life changing blessing for me. This photo is from the play, during rehearsal... it speaks to me - He took our place... yours, mine... everyones. If not for Jesus, we would have bear the pain and suffering of condemnation and eternal strife.  Over 1000 souls were saved through this production... saved by Grace. Hard to find the words...
11:16 PM, Mar. 31, 2008
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Jan 28th 2008My mom took her last breath here on earth and woke up in the arms of Jesus, forgiven... redeemed, renewed and alive! I imagine her there, in Heaven, she's beautiful and she is happy. She is no longer afraid or lost, no longer bitter, jealous or filled with anger. She is free... free from the guilt and the shame, the pain and anguish. She is singing, I'm sure of it. Her voice restored. She always had a beautiful singing voice, I remember hearing her sing when I was a young child... I would hide just beyond the kitchen wall and listen to her sing while she was cooking... she would stop if she knew I was listening... it was the only time I truly thought she was happy...when she was singing. Christmas was the best time to hear her sing, she did not seem to mind if we heard her then... she would turn up the stereo extra loud -- and we would all croon to Bing Crosby, Burl Ives and Elvis! Silver Bells was the best song... that was a good memory for us all... The smoking destroyed her voice, she could barely talk near the end of her life. I pray she is singing glorious songs to the Lord - praising Him with her angelic voice - songs she couldn't sing on earth... now in Heaven - proclaiming His Majesty for all to hear! I am still numb, the grief overwhelms me some days, other days I remember something, like her singing... things I have forgotten about. This process of saying goodbye is different than I thought it would be. Perhaps being in the play has delayed some if the greiving... I'm not sure what to think... I can only press in and pray that He is there if and when I fall into a puddle of tears... this past week has been a tough one... I have been alone in my grief - it is so hard to let others in, they don't understand... God knows my heart and He is here for me... I voted
8:49 AM, Feb. 2, 2008
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Yesterday I was at a gathering of women - it got interesting... Politics came up --There were a few among us that others view as the ones to 'listen to' - based on whatever factor, be it education, their past involvement with the electoral process, their position in leadership or their status in the community they reside. I was thankful they were in the room, as it gave way for an intellectual discussion and it gave me a chance for others to see that I am equally educated in the factors that make up this shattered election year. Thier message was clear. Winning is everything. Yes, I want to win, to keep Hilary or Obama out -- that is why we go to the polls. However, unlike one voice in the room, I am not willing to sell my conservative soul for the cause of keeping a republican party that is being revised to a bunch of modernized, green, world worshipping, bleeding heart, middle of the road wimps. I will stand on basic conservative principles. There is no one candidate that stands for everything with the absolute that Fred Thompson or Duncan Hunter did. That Ronald Reagan did. I will; not give in to popularity, I hated it in high school (although I was in the "A" group) I will not 'fall' for it now, especially with the media in control. I firmly believe the way the caucus procedure works, needs to be revised. We have been depending on the first four states ( Iowa, New Hampshire, South Carolina and Florida) to be the conservative compass no longer holds validity. Iowa has become the subsided farm state, they depend on big government to fund their bankrupt land. The other three have experience a migration of left winged Bostonians,Philidephians and many other NE moderates.. The voice of the conservative is gone from these places - as evident from the close marginal votes that have already been cast. The voice of the True Conservative. The American Patriot will be heard. Not defeated this year. After Fred dropped out, I went on a roller coaster ride -- my stomach felt like I had been punched. I thought about not voting (for a second) then had the thought (as do many) to let a lib win, as the saying went -- we needed a jimmy before we got a ronnie... Thankfully, I woke up and realized - we do have a voice still. It was in how we use it that matters most. Then trusting God with the results. Not backing down for the principles that matter to me, a red-white-blue conservative. If we back down and stay home, defeated, then Mccain Wins the primary, and a liberal will become commander in chief (shudder). Now mind you, we can go home knowing that we did not change with the wind because of popularity and a seething need for vengence. I have been looking at the candidates closer, who represents the best choice to bring our economy back - which in turn will allow for more money to strengthen the military, build the fence, get the criminals out, and defend our country. Who would be the best choice of those left, who would vote for conservative judges. Who has made honest changes, admitted he was wrong. Who is committed to the sanctity of marriage and proves it by begin married and raising a strong family. Of the four candidates left on the Republican side: McCain - By his own admission, Sen McCain is not strong on economic issues, something we must seriously take into consideration. the economy must be the number one concern, without a fiscally sound plan, the courageous fight to protect this country would be at risk. His stance on the environment has crossed beyond the midline view - he is embracing far too many liberal viewpoints that contradict my personal conservative values. Huckabee - Related, strong on faith issues, which is important to our family. His record on economic issues with regards to his time as Gov of Arkansas was not a record to stand and shout about. His stance on illegal immigration is soft at best. He seems to be talking more Reaganistic, not trusting it is sincere at this point in the race. Ron Paul - A candidate for a cause more than to be elected. Romney - At this point the closest of the four we have left to being a conservative. His economic plan is aggressive, something that could bring America back to being a strong force Globally. His experience running successful businesses and recouping the Olympics show he has a proven record economically. His stance on the other issues fall in line with what I would consider the farthest to the right . His religion played a factor int he beginning, that was unfair. *** Update*** Super Tuesday. What a turnout! Minnesotans have spoken. Mitt Romney won here, which is more a vote for a voice of change than anything else. The countrywide results put McCain in front and Romney/Huckabee battling it out next... Ron Paul a distant third. What happens now? If McCain becomes the nominee, I fear the conservatives will stay home, to make a point. I am not sure I agree with apathy. It will take a miracle for Huckabee or Romney to pass him... but I never doubt God! Now is the time to pray for that miracle or perhaps pray for a third party to rise up from the ranks - one that calls out the candidate that is waiting in the wings. The one who is calling for change, who served our country and made an impact. His name: Newt Gingrich. Gone Home...
6:41 PM, Jan. 28, 2008
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Hello my friends...The news that my mom had passed came early this morning, her last moments were peaceful, in her sleep. I tried to comfort my dad, explaining, that even though she went to sleep on earth and she awoke up in the arms of Jesus, fully restored, whole and full of joy. This is what I must believe also... Please pray for him, he is snowed in and getting people to the house to take care of her - well things are difficult on the mountain road. He has all the details in place, the preparations ready - they just need to get to the house. I will not be returning to Oregon for the memorial. I am thankful for the understanding my family has given to me, knowing the time I spent with her in October was healing for her soul... God brought an army of Christian soldiers, after me to share the Gospel, the Truth and the Love of Christ. Somewhere in the last few months, for her and my step-dad, the prayer was spoken, the door unlocked and I truly believe she is home with Jesus - this gives me peace. My aunt called today and confirmed this to be true! Makes me want to shout~ Hallaluah!!!!!!!!! God has been at work on my heart as well, preparing for this day. I have spent so much of my grief already, in prayer, grieving for her lost soul to be redeemed. It is not the kind of 'sudden news' grief, where the unexpected shock brings forth the emotions with a tsunami of tears, pain and unanswered questions... I have felt this kind of grief, when my best friend was killed in an accident when I was 19, or when I heard the news of my brother being convicted, found guilty of a horrible crime. That kind of grief, hits like a baseball bat against the bones, it aches deep within. This grief is different. It is more of a lingering process, through which soft almost rythmic waves of mourning have come upon me, as the reality of what was coming became clearer each day. I have found myself in the depths of sadness for what we never got to do, the time lost... memories from the past have swept over me these past few months... ones that had been lost. Pieces of who I was. I am thankful for reconciliation - that God loved me enough to give it to my mom and I, just in time... In Peace, Melody GLORY!!!!!!!!
11:00 AM, Jan. 16, 2008
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Rejoice in the Name of the Lord, our Saviour Jesus Christ!You prayers have worked! My mom and dad have both received Jesus! I am overwhelmed with God's grace!! I love You Lord!! They have been surrounded 24/7 by Bible reading, Prayer warriors - bringing the gospel to mom and dad through an amazing hospice! I had a lengthy conversation with my dad the other night and he told me how it was hard not to want to hear what they had to say. It was a if they breathed God. While we were on the phone, a nurse had to leave, and she gave him a hug and told him - God Bless You - he cried. He proceeded to tell me he always knew about Jesus, he grew up Catholic, but when he married my mom, he left the church and became angry at religion because they would not marry them because they had both been previously married. What a fine line he stood on when he made that decision. Because of religion and pride, I grew up not knowing of the love of Jesus. He told me that he and mom, both prayed with a pastor recently, asking Jesus into their life!! This pastor has come to their home every week, read the word, talked to them and prayed with the.... March on Christian Soldier!!! Oh Lord bless this servant - abundantly - this was huge victory!! If you recall, from my former posts -I was willing to give my own earthly reconciliation if there was a way for them to reconcile with God... Yet, God led me to go out and see them and through his grace, Love won out, there was so much more than reconciliation - so hard to out into words. I knew in my heart that God would bring people to surround her with him, His word and the Truth about salvation -- we prayed for it -- and he honored us! God is a Big God - He blesses above and beyond what we can imagine! If you have unsaved friends, loved ones, co-workers... never give up - God wants them to be saved more than you do!! Hospitality at Home...
10:39 AM, Jan. 3, 2008
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This is how I pray others see our home… an inviting place to come in, relax, fellowship, laugh, cry, play and find a part of Jesus…
Some of my friends think it is my middle name. I get such a kick watching my friends climb those steps to my front door. I am almost always prepared for someone to drop in… only it rarely happens without an invitation. I find people are too busy these days to stop y for a visit. It takes an invitation. Something I believe God has given to my husband and I, a gift. Seems there is always a good reason to have company over. Large and small gatherings or just one-on-one. No matter what the occasion or how big the guest list, me casa su casa, which is spanish for; my house is your house. Of course with the holidays just barely behind us, we had plenty of opportunity our home to company… Oh my! We were excited about the possibilities to gather with those we cherish in our life. We had a friend over for coffee, another family over to sled. An old neighbor stopped by on their way into town and a new neighbor brought over a Christmas pie. We hosted a holiday open house, where friends and neighbors stopped in throughout the day. We hosted another smaller gathering, with a few older friends. Family visited from out of town the weekend before Christmas. We hosted a political debate watch party and a few of hubby’s friends came over one night to watch a historical football game. New Year’s Eve brought friends over to play games, do some hilarious karaoke and, of course, ring in the New Year. We had wall to wall sleeping bags, in the game room,as we encouraged our guests to stay the night instead of driving home at such a late hour. Just as the final guest headed out, the next day, my son and his fiancé came back for a final visit before heading back to school Florida. I can imagine some of you reading this are breaking out into a small sweat, wondering how much is too much? We have done this for so many years, it would seem abnormal not to. Even when we lived in a tiny town home, we opened our doors.  God has blessed us and now we live in a home that is perfect for entertaining... we honor Him by opening our doors...
I know some of you are thinking about the preparations, the expense or the mess left behind. Perhaps you are the kind of person who worries about every little thing, what will people think if I use paper plates or if my towels don’t match in the bathroom? Others are such perfectionists that they never invite people over for fear of rejection. If this describes you, then start small. You will be blessed when you open your home, even if just to have a friend over for a cup of tea. We started with kids birthday parties and found out it was easy and fun! I have a secret resource… no, not Martha Stewart’s magazine… something much more refreshing! TEACH Magazine It is a great Christian resource to have on hand. It is filled with wonderful articles that encourage and challenge homemakers. Their motto: we put the HOME in Homemaking. Can you believe the winter issue was appropriately titled: Hospitality How Tos! I have always had a sense that hospitality is our way of serving the Lord in the home He has provided for our family. I was reminded by Lorrie Flem, Editor of Teach Magazine that God does not recommend that we are hospitable, He commands us to do so. I consider having the gift a blessing beyond measure. TEACH Magazine has an array of inspiring writers, I feel at home reading their stories, as if they are sitting across from me in the great room sharing from their hearts. It is a hearty magazine, filled to the brim with articles, stories, poems and book reviews. Each article relates in one way or another to the theme of the specific issue. I am looking forward to the spring issue, it is sure to be inspiring and encouraging, the theme: Discerning God’s Will for your Life. I do want to mention one of the writers, Jessica Cover, she is a 19-yr old Homeschool graduate from Grandview, Washington. She writes with brutal honesty and candor. Her word usage is eloquent, yet simple. I have found it refreshing to read the honest words from a homeschool graduate, giving me insight into the thought process form the students point of view. Please check out their website and start your own subscription, it is worth every penny. I have had many friends try to take my copy home with them… I just cannot bear to let it go! (giggle) Blessings to you and your families in 2008, may your home be filled with much love, warmth and the sound of friends gathering. Melody
*photos taken by Korey Erickson, future daughter in law. Homes Cooler for FRED
8:23 PM, Jan. 2, 2008
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Home educators are one the fastest growing options for school in the nation, many will vote conservative, based on issues such as the right to life, national security and less government. What a blessing to be able to vote and go through the electoral process as a free country. Who we are supporting in the race to be President of the United States in 2008.? Fred Thompson!http://homescooler4fred.blogspot.com/ Please stop over to my blog leave a comment - the world needs to know that not all homeschoolers support the huckster... Blessings Melody Can you see the gate?
8:52 PM, Dec. 30, 2007
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Am I getting through? Oh, how many nights have I sat up and wondered if all that I do each day to teach my kids the basics of living a godly life… I wonder… is it getting through? My prayer is that with God’s help, I can guide them through the narrow gate. I got an answer to prayer this weekend. While Christmas shopping last weekend we tried out a gaming system and the coolest game called Rock Band while at Best Buy. It came with a guitar a set of drums and a microphone. Since my DD and I are in the midst of music lessons (more on that later) we thought this would be a lot of fun to play together – hubby got all fired up about the singing part – he got to belt out the lyrics at the store during the demo – we had a crowd gathered around us… it was really fun! So the decision was made. A family Christmas gift. Christmas night we hooked it up and my son and fiancé joined us for a rock and roll night. You have to master a song – with guitar, drums and voice in order to unlock more songs… there is no other way to win a new song. We were awesome!! It was so much fun. We were singing Rolling Stones, Bon Jovi… some of the old classics… then we finally earned a new song. I do not remember the name, but I do remember one of the words – and my heart fell into my lap as I found myself telling my daughter – don’t sing that word!!! It started with a WH and ended with an ORE… I was dumbfounded. Speechless. I pulled my hubby into the other room and we had a ‘discussion’… he, being the leader of the home made the decision to let this one go. I agreed. We felt it was a good lesson for our kids to see what others think is ok. We finished the song and decided not to play it again. The rest of the night, the songs were ok. Not ones we would have playing in the car, but nothing too out of line. A few days later in the afternoon, my DD and I decided to play the game. We were doing really good, then a song we chose had a graphic that was – simply put – pure evil. The shirt, if you call it that, the girl character wore had a neckline that went to her navel – and the backdrop was skull/bones – then the song began… I do not remember what it was, but I felt the evil permeating the room. I looked at my daughter and said we needed to turn it off. She agreed. We went upstairs and prayed. She opened her eyes and with all the bravery I have seen her display, suggested we return the game. That it is evil and she would be embarrassed to play it with her friends. Wow! I was going to talk to her das that night and hope to break it to her gently, but here she was – an 11 yr old – deciding on the narrow gate. She made a decision far beyond her years… a moral decision. I called her dad and was not surprised when he told us he had been praying about it all day wondering how he was going to tell us his own decision to take it back. We boxed it up, and returned it the next day. God’s favor was on us for sure. The GM of Best Buy, who we had become acquainted with during our shopping at the store, was surprised to see us returning it, and gave the Ok, even though the software had been used – usually you cannot return these types of products once you open them – I had no clue. What a great guy. He was impressed by our convictions and even more so by DD and her willingness to make the change without argument. We left the store with a new video camera and some safe karaoke songs… redeemed. So… am I getting through? I am feeling pretty confident that I am... "Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it. For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few who find it. Matthew 7:13-14 What does this have to do with Home School?
8:12 PM, Dec. 30, 2007
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So many times I share on my blog and I wonder, as many of you might… what does this have to do with homeschool? I don’t usually talk curriculum, no math or spelling tests listed here. I hardly share about our co-op or the field trips either. I have felt a bit guilty sharing my personal stories, as if I have utilized this blog as my own public diary. I don’t know you personally, we have never met. Yet… I have the nerve to think you want to read about my life. This is a home school blog site true, but just because I educate my child, does not mean you want to hear my rue. So I have wandered to and fro… only stopping in a bit to leave a small story or share some new tidbit. Then, this past weekend something became clear. Homeschool is not a nine to five – well ok… 10-2 (giggle) daily ritual that you put on the bookshelf when you are done. It is 24/7!! We teach our children from the moment we arise to the moment we tuck them in. Homeschooling is not about the curriculum. It is not about the education of the mind. It is about the education of much more… the mind, the heart and the soul! Epiphany!!! Not only my child’s heart soul and mind… but mine too. I knew this, but now I understand why sharing whatever we share here is vital for me and for you. Although I may not have met you face to face, you are my friend. You are like me. Maybe you are quieter, more reserved, or maybe you are more strong willed or more organized than I am. Perhaps your daily devotion time with God would make mine look like a glance… no matter where each of us are in our walk with Christ, no matter what we teach or, more importantly, how many we teach…I have come to realize that it is important that we do share, because we are supporting one another in our own way. We are blessing each other, with love, kindness, understanding and Christ’s love… So, as we move forward towards 2008 and beyond, I pray what God urges me to share will be a blessing for you. Happy New Year A NEW TRADITION
8:09 PM, Dec. 30, 2007
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The Christmas Blessing This year we started a new tradition. One that we pray our children will carry with them into eternity. We gave our children each a special Christmas Blessing. My hubby and I both wrote each child a letter. We told them how we remembered the day they were born and about special memories watching them grow through the years. We then wrote out a special page of blessings. We blessed them with the blessings Abraham, David and of Daniel. We blessed them with the blessing of Timothy and Elijah. We blessed them with blessings over their future and covered them with blessings for any trial they may face. We blessed them with pure heart, sound mind and willing spirit. Then we prepared for the Blessing ceremony. We put these prayers on special paper, and created a book (binder) for each of them. We prayed with each other and then called the kids into the great room… we were nervous. We explained that we were about to embark on something new, something we prayed would be a new family tradition, at Christmas each year. We explained that our ultimate prayer would be that this would be carried forward to our children’s children and beyond. We asked our son, almost 21 to sit in a chair we had placed in the middle of the room. We read this Blessing over him together as we laid hands on his shoulders. May The Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you. May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace… Number 6:24-26 We each read our letter to him one at a time. It was hard to keep from sobbing through the love we were pouring out to him, his shoulders were trembling, it was such an honest and emotional moment for us all. Telling how much we respect him, how proud we are for the man he is becoming and the decisions he is making. These were words he needed, right now. When we got to the blessing page, I wasn’t sure we could go on. This is when the Holy Spirit stepped in. Those blessings were read with an anointing on them it was absolutely amazing! We hugged and kissed and he sat down next to his fiancé – whole – filled to overflowing… Next, our daughter -11- she was quiet, unsure what to do, overwhelmed by the whole thing… yet, she was ready… she practically leaped into the chair! We began the same way: May The Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you. May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace… Being able to cover her with these words and to share with her how much she means to us, how proud we are of her and the wonderful blessings we want for her life was timely… sometimes in the day to day, we forget to tell our kids how amazing they are… she needed these words, right here right now. Her eyes shined with tears of joy and her smile slashed across her face with each blessing we read… her hugs were tight and long before she sat back down… Then we did something even more unexpected… We gave a blessing book to our future daughter in law. We asked our son to help us read the blessing over her. It was unbelievable the powerful effect it had both of them… I can visualize one day seeing them bless their children this same way… The idea came from man y sources, mostly from The Blessing by Robert Strand. Our plan is to continue adding blessings throughout the year to their books. There will be a Wedding Blessing, next summer Birthday Blessings, Graduation Blessings, and one day… Baby Blessings… our son’s next birthday will be significant – 21 – we will ask other family members and close mentoring friends to bless him with a letter to add to his book…. This will also be a ceremony where their letters will be read to him. When our daughter turns 13 we will have a purity ceremony and ask others to join us in The Blessing… I thank God for bringing this into our life… to give to our children. I can only imagine what would have changed in my own life if I had been given something like the Blessing… to know that others really thought these things about me, to have those letters to read in times of sadness or dismay… May The Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you. May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace… How Brave Are You?
10:16 PM, Dec. 26, 2007
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Wednesday, December 26, 2007New Year ReVolutionEvery year someone invariably asks me the question:
I have not really ever bought into the whole notion that someone can make a monumental change in their life the way most americans do on December 31st. I have witnessed too many good intentions go by the wayside, usually within a few days of their declaration. These decisions are usually not well thought out, I have seen many of the usual promises - lose weight, quit smoking, work harder -- given up for dead by mid February at the latest. So, I have to ask... what's the point? I looked up the definition for Resolution: the act of analyzing a complex notion into simpler ones That is odd, seems to me, the way most people make their resolutions, is not through analyzing anything complex. They hardly invedsigate the process it takes to properly resolve to change, to steadfastly preservere through the doggedness that gets in the way, I rarely see the tenacity it takes to turn a resolution into a true purpose. Seriously, how many people do you know who can truly say at the end of the year - they followed through on a resolution? The numbers are so low, resolutions are nothing more than an empty promise. How about a... A New Year Revolution!!! To be fair... Let's start with the definition of revolution, it is not what you might think outside of a military coup or the orbit of a planet... REVOLUTION: a sudden, radical, or complete change. Let me translate... If you are going to make a promise to change. Just do it. This year could be the year where you can make a fundamental change, a drastic change. I have a good friend who's family motto is "eat the elephant one bite at a time". I love that for the day to day decisions we face in our life. However, you first have to catch the elephant! That takes revolutionary thinking! There must be a far reaching change in the way you think, behave. That is a paradigm change. That is lasting change. Change that will transform you. It will reform, alter who you are today. Change takes upheaval, reform and innovation... it takes a decision and the guts to follow through. Revolution takes courage. How brave are you?
Christmas is coming...
9:53 AM, Dec. 16, 2007
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I am so thankful for this Christmas season... I feel as if I have opened a new gift!The house is decorated inside and out. Our friends have gathered here for our annual Holiday Open House. We have also been blessed to attend a handful of other holiday parties! We've seen two Christmas shows - with another scheduled for Christmas eve. We still have a few gifts to aquire and a few more cookies to bake... yet somehow, in the what should be the hustle and bustle of the season, we have had plenty of time to sit by the fire, read Dickens Christmas Tales, play games, and watch several favorite holiday movies. We have had plenty of quiet time to paint ornaments and make fudge. My son and his fiance' will be home next weekend and we are ready! We only have a few days with them here at our home, they travel all over the state to visit everyone - plus they have the second week to finalize plans for their wedding next summer. Then back to Florida to finish off the school year. This year we will drive to gramma's (hubby's mom) on Christmas Eve and stay the night, then spend Christmas day with hubby's extended family. We'll stop by our future "in laws" home on the way home for a holiday drink and special time - they are a wonderful family, my son is blessed indeed! The week after Christmas is wide open - maybe we will hit the ski slopes or the ice rink... visit friends and relax by the fire... I would love to go for a sleigh ride this year... feeling very nostalgic. This journey with mom's cancer has been a journey back home -- coming to understand that all that truly matters are the ones God has given us to love... hubby and the kids - a future daughter in law, extended family and our friends... we are blessed abundantly! Above all - we have been given the greatest gift if all in our savior Jesus, born to us in Bethlehem... When we love Him with all our heart and mind and soul, He gives us more love than we can ever imagine!! Christmas Blessings to all my HSB friends!! Melody Nothing Matters
9:23 PM, Dec. 6, 2007
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Hello Friends,It has been an interesting couple of weeks since my last post. Thank you to everyone who left such caring and blessed messages... I appreciate each of you dearly. Update: Mom & Dad just rode out the NW Pacific Storms, with winds over 120MPH hammering the region. Trees (massive trees) fell like matchsticks, hills gave way to mud and rocks. The rivers flooded above their banks. They were right in the middle of it all!! 4 days passed, while I trusted the Lord to take care of them... their phones were down - their road closed @ mile marker #4 - they love at # 8... isolated. Thankfully they had a generator, neighbors came out and helped one another... and today I finally got the news, they are safe. The only material loss... my dad's prized dock. They are safe now, the waters have receded and hospice has been able to navigate the mud encased roads. My dad is worn out - taking care of my mom is taking it's toll. I cannot imagine how hard it must be for this man... he is learning at the age of 72 to do the laundry, wash the dishes, cook meals... and take care of my ailing mother.... all through blind eyes. Seems the cancer has moved to moms brain, as she has days where she is incoherent, babbling like a toddler other days she seems fine. Today I got to chat with her... not talk, chat. Just a hello, I love you and encouragement. Nothing else matters. No need to talk about politics or the latest news. No need to bring up the past. Just hello - I love you... Amazing how things have changed How I have changed. A few months ago when I traveled to Oregon to see my family, something happened... something I have been trying to find a way to put into words... but am battling to find them... Reconciliation happened. It's astounding how easy it was. There was no hashing it out. No need to discuss it. No need to be right. No needing to listen to both sides. No technique. No fair fighting. No need to interpret the others love language. None of that mattered. Not when True Love prevailed. Two commandments Jesus gave. Love God first. With all your heart soul and mind. Love thy neighbor as thyself. I have had a rare opportunity to see these commandments work. I went to God, purely in love. I emptied out everything of me and gave it all to Him. What did He do? Gave it back. 100 fold. Then - and only then - was I able to love again. I did not need answers or explanations or apologies. I only wanted to give the love away. In this day that we live, it sounds almost cliche' to try to live out these commandments... but it is possible. When we make the decision to do so. Now I understand, what I thought was a 'burden of justice' was an empty place that only love could fill. Only God's love. I find myself some days wanting to stay prostrate in worship, not wanting to move out of the heavenly place back into the world... because nothing matters when I am wrapped in the love of God. I still walk this earth seeing through these human eyes, feeling within the confines of this human body... knowing I will face trials and tribulations, with which, there will be no answers that make sense to this human brain...but deep within, my soul soars, singing praises, fully aware of the knowledge that He that is in me - is Greater than he that is in the world. He brings, peace, hope and utter joy!! TobyMac says it well: I was made to love you I was made to find you I was made just for you Made to adore you I was made to love And be loved by you You were here before me You were waiting on me And you said you'd keep me Never would you leave me I was made to love and be loved by you... Thank you Lord, for all your love!! { Last Page } { Page 1 of 7 } { Next Page } |
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