Spontaneous hugs - love it!
Time out - doesn't seem to bother him!
"Jumping in muddy puddles"
Thursday, March 10, 2011
February photos
I know, we're half way through March, but I only just downloaded photos off my phone (let alone the camera) so here are some candids of the kids...
Time out - doesn't seem to bother him!
"Jumping in muddy puddles"
Time out - doesn't seem to bother him!
"Jumping in muddy puddles"
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Spring Forward
This Sunday we lose an hour as the clocks "spring forward" for daylight savings time. It seems as though we've sprung forward through much of the past couple years when I look back at how fast the kids are growing.
It's been a tough few months, but we've had our prayers answered in different ways and we are in a season of faithfulness - being faithful to the call God has placed on our lives, and seeing His faithfulness to us constantly.
I've been able to enjoy watching the kids lately, with less fear and worry, as life becomes more about living fully.
Here are some iPhone pictures from the past week:
I took the kids to the playground at the local elementary school last week, a short walk from our house. It's the first time Toby's been able to walk around by himself...
Yes, Toby did fall off the swing, but only after I went round the front and he put his arms out to me!
This is Emma at "school" (aka therapy) on Friday
And jumping in puddles after church on Sunday (thanks Peppa Pig!!)
Toby cracked me up on Monday, putting his cup in this container
and then drinking from it! He would bite the cup and pull off the box to start all over again.
Emma rocking out at Nanna's this morning...
And the kids discover a way to get my attention when I am hiding in the kitchen "making lunch"...
I love looking at these pictures, even just to see the funny side of life.
It's been a tough few months, but we've had our prayers answered in different ways and we are in a season of faithfulness - being faithful to the call God has placed on our lives, and seeing His faithfulness to us constantly.
I've been able to enjoy watching the kids lately, with less fear and worry, as life becomes more about living fully.
Here are some iPhone pictures from the past week:
I took the kids to the playground at the local elementary school last week, a short walk from our house. It's the first time Toby's been able to walk around by himself...
Yes, Toby did fall off the swing, but only after I went round the front and he put his arms out to me!
This is Emma at "school" (aka therapy) on Friday
And jumping in puddles after church on Sunday (thanks Peppa Pig!!)
Toby cracked me up on Monday, putting his cup in this container
and then drinking from it! He would bite the cup and pull off the box to start all over again.
Emma rocking out at Nanna's this morning...
And the kids discover a way to get my attention when I am hiding in the kitchen "making lunch"...
I love looking at these pictures, even just to see the funny side of life.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Monday, March 7, 2011
Quote of the day pt 2
Emma: once upon a time there was a little girl called Emma and she
loved her family. She loved her little boy Toby, her little mummy
Debra and her little daddy Scott...
loved her family. She loved her little boy Toby, her little mummy
Debra and her little daddy Scott...
It went on but I forgot the rest!
Quote of the day
Emma: So long stretch marks! Mummy, I have to say "so long" to my
stretch marks.
stretch marks.
And that's how advertising works people! You may laugh, but it does
the same thing to you.
Next time you see a car or home improvement commercial see how long it
is before you start to think about upgrades!!
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Together time
first the kids were confused as it's never been this way.
We've always had the seating against the sides of the room with the tv
in the middle. But now the sofas are at 90 degrees and one faces the
TV directly.
It has made the room much cozier and watching TV more comfortable.
But the most pleasing and unexpected result is that the kids will now
sit with us, for extended periods. It's making for some lovely cuddly
moments!
(Or just guy time!)
Always watching!
next door took the picture.
Apparently Emma said "I don't love a lesson right now!"
I had to laugh - I prayed that she would be able to effectively
communicate her feelings. Answered!!
School will be good for her
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Board Meeting
Well, the school board reps just left after our 8.30pm meeting. Who came? The president of the school board, the vice president and a board member.
The "God" part: the president of the school board was Scott's baseball coach when he was a kid and loves him!!
It was really great that they made such an effort, coming to our house just a few days after I submitted the application. They wanted to make sure they will be able to provide the best environment for her and came with a list of questions.
We felt that it would be worth letting Emma stay up and meet them because so many of the medical facts cloud the truth about how able and adorable Emma is! It worked.
We had planned to sit in the dining room and leave Emma watching Peppa Pig (the character du jour) in the living room. However the board members gravitated toward the living room right away. As it turned out Emma stood 4 inches from the TV, so engrossed that she did not hear a word even when we were calling her name. At least I hope not - I heard that you should never discus your children when they are present, like you would discuss a book or object.
Anyway, we answered the questions, after letting them know we would not fight it if they decided they couldn't accommodate us. They appreciated our openness and we had a really good chat.
They will get back to us after discussing it again with the board. The president said to Scott that he didn't see a problem with Emma getting in, but we aren't counting our chickens [before they hatch]!
One thing is for sure that any school that pays this much attention to one of 12 kids in a 5 hour per week pre school class for $110 per month, has got to be decent! Hopefully we will get the same level of consideration when Emma starts public school.
The "God" part: the president of the school board was Scott's baseball coach when he was a kid and loves him!!
It was really great that they made such an effort, coming to our house just a few days after I submitted the application. They wanted to make sure they will be able to provide the best environment for her and came with a list of questions.
We felt that it would be worth letting Emma stay up and meet them because so many of the medical facts cloud the truth about how able and adorable Emma is! It worked.
We had planned to sit in the dining room and leave Emma watching Peppa Pig (the character du jour) in the living room. However the board members gravitated toward the living room right away. As it turned out Emma stood 4 inches from the TV, so engrossed that she did not hear a word even when we were calling her name. At least I hope not - I heard that you should never discus your children when they are present, like you would discuss a book or object.
Anyway, we answered the questions, after letting them know we would not fight it if they decided they couldn't accommodate us. They appreciated our openness and we had a really good chat.
They will get back to us after discussing it again with the board. The president said to Scott that he didn't see a problem with Emma getting in, but we aren't counting our chickens [before they hatch]!
One thing is for sure that any school that pays this much attention to one of 12 kids in a 5 hour per week pre school class for $110 per month, has got to be decent! Hopefully we will get the same level of consideration when Emma starts public school.
Grow in faith...by Jon Walker
“Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.” John 16:22 (NIV)
Do you find that some days you’re staring at your circumstances and making faithless judgments about the things you see? I know I struggle with believing the biblical truth that God is present in all circumstances, particularly when it is a no-good-dirty-rotten day.
Jesus, on the other hand, was certain about the reality of God and certain about God’s presence in his life.
Think about this: Heading into a crisis that would cost him his life, Jesus was so certain of God’s presence that, during the Last Supper, not one of his disciples discerned the gravity of the circumstances! Jesus was confident that God was not only present, but also working through the circumstances.
And, yes, later that evening Jesus began sweating blood from the strain of it all, but he still remained confident that the Father was there and aware. He trusted God was working things out.
We, too, can be certain that God is working in our lives. We develop this radical faith when we learn to trust in God’s character, when we decide, in faith, that God is who he says he is and that he will do what he says he will do.
We come to know that God is faithful when we do the things he tells us to do and then see that he did come through on his promises. In other words, we grow in faith by being faithful. We trust Jesus and see that he is real, and that makes us trust him even more.
Ballerina
ballerina. Needless to say Emma wants "to be a ballerina someday!".
I made that dream come true with a couple of random things bought
months apart, but that came together for such a time as this.
Tights : $3.99
Skirt : $5
Bodysuit : £2.50
Making a dream come true : Priceless!
Quote of the Day
Last night I was working on my computer while Scott played with the kids. After a while Emma came over to me on the sofa...
Em: Mummy, do you know what is awesome?
Me: What's awesome?
Em: You are awesome!
Em: Mummy, do you know what is awesome?
Me: What's awesome?
Em: You are awesome!
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Out with the old...
It definitely feels as though Emma is entering into a new phase in her life. Leaving behind infant/toddler-hood and becoming a "pre-schooler."
We have said goodbye to many of the issues we faced in Emma's early years and with them the concerns that we had in the early days. We never really looked too far ahead because we didn't know what to expect, and dealing with the present is more important.
Today Emma had a follow-up with the ENT doctor and she was very pleased with Emma's progress. No new ear infections to report was excellent, and on target with her age. Her tonsils are small and though there is some abnormality in her nasal passage air can get through (though Emma does not breathe through her nose.).
The doctor also noted improvement in Emma's speech and oral motor. Apparently many kids with Moebius have limited ability to open their mouths wide, even requiring surgery, but Emma has improved - it had been an issue early on.
We had another hearing screen too, just to confirm the "normal" results of the test in November. It was pretty funny. Emma would not stop talking!! On one test she had headphones on and had to throw a block in the basket when she heard a sound. When she heard it she said "I hear it!" rather than just doing it. When the sound was taking a while "I don't hear ANYTHING yet!" and when the audiologist said the next sound would be a frog Emma's comment was "THAT sounds like a frog?!"
She might also be the only kids to yell "Yay, I'm so excited! Let's go!" when she was called back for the hearing screening. I'm a pretty good spin doctor on the medical stuff, so Emma loved the "listening games" we played!! (Speech Therapy is "Games" and Physical Therapy the "Playground room" at "School"!)
We did manage to get a result which was "normal" and so Emma won't need to go back to ENT or audiology!
So, looking ahead... yesterday I got a call from the board of the school we want to send Emma to. After receiving our registration forms they are concerned they won't be able to provide all the support Emma needs. So they want to meet with us, and are coming to our house (!) tomorrow night for a meeting!
I am so used to dealing with Emma's additional needs that maybe the don't seem like a big deal to me? I certainly was naive enough to think that all the big issues were behind us. It's quite likely we will have to battle for the things we want for Emma, I just hadn't bargained on it being so soon.
I'll let you know what happens at the meeting, but I am trying to convince myself that it's worth going to the wall for things that aren't essential (like pre-school) to prepare me for the big ones!
I had a great chat on the phone with the woman organizing the 2012 Moebius Conference in Philadelphia. I'm going to help out anyway I can. She has a 9 yr old son with Moebius and we discussed some of the issues they had with schools and therapies. It was so awesome to speak to someone who knows EXACTLY what Emma has faced and might have some coaching for me.
I had this daily devotional when I got home, it was perfectly timed and I look forward to sharing it with her one day...
We have said goodbye to many of the issues we faced in Emma's early years and with them the concerns that we had in the early days. We never really looked too far ahead because we didn't know what to expect, and dealing with the present is more important.
Today Emma had a follow-up with the ENT doctor and she was very pleased with Emma's progress. No new ear infections to report was excellent, and on target with her age. Her tonsils are small and though there is some abnormality in her nasal passage air can get through (though Emma does not breathe through her nose.).
The doctor also noted improvement in Emma's speech and oral motor. Apparently many kids with Moebius have limited ability to open their mouths wide, even requiring surgery, but Emma has improved - it had been an issue early on.
We had another hearing screen too, just to confirm the "normal" results of the test in November. It was pretty funny. Emma would not stop talking!! On one test she had headphones on and had to throw a block in the basket when she heard a sound. When she heard it she said "I hear it!" rather than just doing it. When the sound was taking a while "I don't hear ANYTHING yet!" and when the audiologist said the next sound would be a frog Emma's comment was "THAT sounds like a frog?!"
She might also be the only kids to yell "Yay, I'm so excited! Let's go!" when she was called back for the hearing screening. I'm a pretty good spin doctor on the medical stuff, so Emma loved the "listening games" we played!! (Speech Therapy is "Games" and Physical Therapy the "Playground room" at "School"!)
We did manage to get a result which was "normal" and so Emma won't need to go back to ENT or audiology!
So, looking ahead... yesterday I got a call from the board of the school we want to send Emma to. After receiving our registration forms they are concerned they won't be able to provide all the support Emma needs. So they want to meet with us, and are coming to our house (!) tomorrow night for a meeting!
I am so used to dealing with Emma's additional needs that maybe the don't seem like a big deal to me? I certainly was naive enough to think that all the big issues were behind us. It's quite likely we will have to battle for the things we want for Emma, I just hadn't bargained on it being so soon.
I'll let you know what happens at the meeting, but I am trying to convince myself that it's worth going to the wall for things that aren't essential (like pre-school) to prepare me for the big ones!
I had a great chat on the phone with the woman organizing the 2012 Moebius Conference in Philadelphia. I'm going to help out anyway I can. She has a 9 yr old son with Moebius and we discussed some of the issues they had with schools and therapies. It was so awesome to speak to someone who knows EXACTLY what Emma has faced and might have some coaching for me.
I had this daily devotional when I got home, it was perfectly timed and I look forward to sharing it with her one day...
“If any of you want to come with me,” he told them, “you must forget yourself, carry your cross, and follow me.” Mark 8:34 (TEV)
When we suffer, we can cling to the truth that God is not surprised. We do not suffer outside the sovereignty and power of God.
We can rest in his promise that he has our best interest at heart and so, when suffering and rejection come, we can obediently trust that our suffering is not an accident but a necessity used by God to lovingly squeeze the things out of us that we might otherwise ignore or excuse -- the sin, disobedience, and apathy that we like to think isn’t so bad.
And this is why Jesus so often addresses the weary and brokenhearted (see Matthew 11:28-30). In a sense, ‘Come to me if you are desperate because only desperate men and women are willing to suffer for my cause.’
They alone understand God will give them “treasures of darkness and riches from secret places, so that you may know that I, the Lord, the God of Israel call you by your name.” (Isaiah 45:3 HCSB)
Consider this: The cross did not just happen to Jesus; it was part of his purpose for coming to earth. Suffering does not just happen upon you; God uses it to help you fulfill the purpose for your life.
You may face suffering even as you walk obediently. Don’t let it distract you; instead, let it drive you deeper into the heart of God. Even if you can’t see the work of God’s hand, place your faith in the loving and good nature of God.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
So long sucker!!
pulmonologist told us we could stop using the CPAP and pulse ox.
We kept them over the winter, just in case, but it's been 6 months
since we ceased nursing care and using the equipment.
Emma has been doing awesome, even with colds and sickness. So last
week I arranged for the suction machine and pulse-ox to go back home.
I am also going to schedule pick-up for her feeding pump, which has
been stashed in a closet for 6 months.
The CPAP will stay with us because that was "rent to own!". But I
don't see us using it again, maybe we could sell it!!
Even though we never use them, having the machines has been a security
blanket. It feels like a good time to move on, an emotional spring
clean!!
Really the g-tube is the only thing remaining and I'm hopeful it won't
be too long!!
Monday, February 28, 2011
Awareness
I was just browsing the web and came across something about Moebius Syndrome Awareness Day. Apparently the first one was January 24, 2011! Anyway I checked out the site:
There are lots of stories of people with Moebius. I clicked on a couple. One was a woman terribly wounded by bullying at school - could have done without reading that! Another was a little girl, Matilyn, who had gastroschisis!! Clearly they were not at a hospital as fab as ours!
If you are curious go ahead and check it out. I'll now have to read more of the stories to find the encouraging ones!!
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Homecoming Queen
Three years ago these were the images that we had longed for..
Emma came home on Wednesday February 27, 2008. She was 3 1/2 months old. As I look at the postings of the days leading up to her discharge and the first few days at home I noticed something significant.
We were expecting to bring her home on the Monday, but couldn't because she had diarrhea. By the time we did get discharged on the Wednesday I was so longing to bring her home that it eclipsed my anxieties. There's another reason why unexpected delays can be to our benefit!
I realize that to look back at the progress of any child from 3 months to 39 months there is going to be some significant improvement! However, I have been contemplating the milestones we were never really sure Emma would reach.
When we brought Emma home she was still pretty weak, not only because of the Moebius, but also from the time in a hospital bed. We used to be able to lay her on the sofa for long periods with no worry of her rolling off. Now she rarely sits down, even watching TV standing up or bouncing around the living room!
This morning, at breakfast I burped, and before I had chance to say anything Emma piped up "Excuse YOU Mummy!" I can't remember when Emma said her first word, but there have been many since. We didn't know to what extent Emma would be able to express her thoughts and feelings verbally, but people that know her are able to understand 70-90% of her words. That's HUGE.
Something else that we wondered about when Emma came home was how would we be able to manage without my income. It seems quite funny now because for the past few months we've not known where Scott's income would come from!! However, we have not only gotten by, but we have been able to accomplish the things we wanted and even a few vacations.
I feel blessed that we can see clearly the hand of God's healing and provision throughout our lives. It's that testimony we can lean on when we go through struggles in the future. The past three years have been the hardest in my life, but they have also been the best!
We were expecting to bring her home on the Monday, but couldn't because she had diarrhea. By the time we did get discharged on the Wednesday I was so longing to bring her home that it eclipsed my anxieties. There's another reason why unexpected delays can be to our benefit!
I realize that to look back at the progress of any child from 3 months to 39 months there is going to be some significant improvement! However, I have been contemplating the milestones we were never really sure Emma would reach.
When we brought Emma home she was still pretty weak, not only because of the Moebius, but also from the time in a hospital bed. We used to be able to lay her on the sofa for long periods with no worry of her rolling off. Now she rarely sits down, even watching TV standing up or bouncing around the living room!
This morning, at breakfast I burped, and before I had chance to say anything Emma piped up "Excuse YOU Mummy!" I can't remember when Emma said her first word, but there have been many since. We didn't know to what extent Emma would be able to express her thoughts and feelings verbally, but people that know her are able to understand 70-90% of her words. That's HUGE.
Something else that we wondered about when Emma came home was how would we be able to manage without my income. It seems quite funny now because for the past few months we've not known where Scott's income would come from!! However, we have not only gotten by, but we have been able to accomplish the things we wanted and even a few vacations.
I feel blessed that we can see clearly the hand of God's healing and provision throughout our lives. It's that testimony we can lean on when we go through struggles in the future. The past three years have been the hardest in my life, but they have also been the best!
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Heart's desires
As I was driving around today, getting the groceries I saw this message on a church sign:
Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.
It got me thinking.
It's a great scripture, and as all scriptures are, is the truth. However, I thought about it as someone who might not be familiar with scriptures and realized it needed some deconstruction.
"he will give you the desires of your heart" sounds pretty straight forward, however if you fail to observe the first part of the verse you could mistake the meaning behind this part.
To "take delight in the Lord" is more deeper than it sounds. To truly "delight" in the Lord you have to get to know God.
Firstly, that involves learning who he is and his relationship to us, his creation. That requires reading and understanding scripture.
Secondly, once you learn who God is - and if done right, understand that he is a loving and personal God - then you can delight in Him. What does that look like? Pretty much the same if you were to delight in [fill in the blank with the name of someone you love]. Spending time with him (in prayer and worship), thinking about him (meditation), doing what makes him happy (telling others about him) and seeking things in common.
When you delight in God, and follow after him (and I'm thinking Jesus here) then something happens to you. You start to become the person that God intended you to be. You see other people the way he sees them (with love and mercy), and find joy in things that God loves.
Pretty soon "the desires of your heart" begin to align with God's heart. And that is when God is only too happy to give you the desires of your heart, because they are the desires of HIS heart.
Just in case you saw the sign too!!
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
All in God time
This week is the third anniversary of when we brought Emma home from the hospital. It's almost as significant to me as her birthday! Naturally it's been on my mind as I think back over the past three years.
We've been through alot and probably more than we know. But despite all the experiences and lessons something today was just as significant if not more...
After finishing her lunch (scrambled eggs and toast then yoghurt) Emma developed hiccups. We went through our normal naptime routine and I vented her an extra time to see if it would help, but to no avail.
After tucking her in I started to leave, when I felt a prompting to pray with her about the hiccups. Prayer is not in our nap-time routine and I ignored it, but before I got to her bedroom door I was compelled to pray with her.
I went back over to her bed, sat down and suggested we prayed for her hiccups. We closed our eyes and prayed. After saying "amen" Emma hiccuped. "It didn't work." she said. (Oh, how often we respond in the same way!)
I knew better and said "Ah - it didn't work YET! When you ask God to help you, He will, but you have to wait. God works in His own time." I leaned over to give her a hug and a kiss.
I lingered slightly, waiting for the next hiccup, and sure enough it never came. Emma's hiccups were gone!
We are so quick to dismiss our prayers as denied or unanswered when we do not see the desired outcome, or any outcome in our acceptable time frame. When we put God in a little box of our expectations we deny His wisdom and sovereignty, as well as lack of faith that He loves us and will act in our best interests.
Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for.
We've been through alot and probably more than we know. But despite all the experiences and lessons something today was just as significant if not more...
After finishing her lunch (scrambled eggs and toast then yoghurt) Emma developed hiccups. We went through our normal naptime routine and I vented her an extra time to see if it would help, but to no avail.
After tucking her in I started to leave, when I felt a prompting to pray with her about the hiccups. Prayer is not in our nap-time routine and I ignored it, but before I got to her bedroom door I was compelled to pray with her.
I went back over to her bed, sat down and suggested we prayed for her hiccups. We closed our eyes and prayed. After saying "amen" Emma hiccuped. "It didn't work." she said. (Oh, how often we respond in the same way!)
I knew better and said "Ah - it didn't work YET! When you ask God to help you, He will, but you have to wait. God works in His own time." I leaned over to give her a hug and a kiss.
I lingered slightly, waiting for the next hiccup, and sure enough it never came. Emma's hiccups were gone!
We are so quick to dismiss our prayers as denied or unanswered when we do not see the desired outcome, or any outcome in our acceptable time frame. When we put God in a little box of our expectations we deny His wisdom and sovereignty, as well as lack of faith that He loves us and will act in our best interests.
Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for.
By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.
By faith Abel brought God a better offering than Cain did. By faith he was commended as righteous, when God spoke well of his offerings. And by faith Abel still speaks, even though he is dead.
By faith Enoch was taken from this life, so that he did not experience death: “He could not be found, because God had taken him away.” For before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God. And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.
By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family. By his faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that is in keeping with faith.
By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going. By faith he made his home in the promised land like a stranger in a foreign country; he lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise. For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God. And by faith even Sarah, who was past childbearing age, was enabled to bear children because she considered him faithful who had made the promise. And so from this one man, and he as good as dead, came descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sand on the seashore.
All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance, admitting that they were foreigners and strangers on earth. People who say such things show that they are looking for a country of their own. If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. Instead, they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them.
By faith Abraham, when God tested him, offered Isaac as a sacrifice. He who had embraced the promises was about to sacrifice his one and only son, even though God had said to him, “It is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned.” Abraham reasoned that God could even raise the dead, and so in a manner of speaking he did receive Isaac back from death.
By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau in regard to their future.
By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of Joseph’s sons, and worshiped as he leaned on the top of his staff.
By faith Joseph, when his end was near, spoke about the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt and gave instructions concerning the burial of his bones.
By faith Moses’ parents hid him for three months after he was born, because they saw he was no ordinary child, and they were not afraid of the king’s edict.
By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin. He regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward. By faith he left Egypt, not fearing the king’s anger; he persevered because he saw him who is invisible. By faith he kept the Passover and the application of blood, so that the destroyer of the firstborn would not touch the firstborn of Israel.
By faith the people passed through the Red Sea as on dry land; but when the Egyptians tried to do so, they were drowned.
By faith the walls of Jericho fell, after the army had marched around them for seven days.
By faith the prostitute Rahab, because she welcomed the spies, was not killed with those who were disobedient.
And what more shall I say? I do not have time to tell about Gideon, Barak, Samson and Jephthah, about David and Samuel and the prophets, who through faith conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and gained what was promised; who shut the mouths of lions, quenched the fury of the flames, and escaped the edge of the sword; whose weakness was turned to strength; and who became powerful in battle and routed foreign armies. Women received back their dead, raised to life again. There were others who were tortured, refusing to be released so that they might gain an even better resurrection. Some faced jeers and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment. They were put to death by stoning; they were sawed in two; they were killed by the sword. They went about in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, persecuted and mistreated— the world was not worthy of them. They wandered in deserts and mountains, living in caves and in holes in the ground.
These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised, since God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect.
Hebrews 11
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Powered by the Holy Spirit
When Pastor Bob first asked Scott a few weeks ago, to preach this Sunday, Scott's response was characteristically humble. He thought PB was crazy to ask him, but agreed to do it, with honor. The message: bring the sermon of Battle at Kruger to our congregation. A message Scott heard at the men's conference last year, but that was very personal to him.
Over the past few weeks Scott has been super busy so this week was the first time he really got going in earnest. First let me mention that Scott will take hours to prepare for the Sundays when he leads a 5 minute prayer and offering time! He battles nerves, feelings of unworthiness, but always gets up and does great.
I am so proud and invited everyone we know. To us, and our friends, this is the equivalent to someone who likes music giving their first solo performance!! Scott's a rock star to me!!
For this message though he really didn't seem to concerned, peaceful almost. He prepared his sermon and we worked together on a handout and a powerpoint for the big screen. We finished up the latter around midnight last night!
This morning at 7am Scott got a call on his cellphone, from Grant, who set's the church up for service. A tree fell over and there was no power to the church and it was freezing inside. (We had a power cut for a couple of hours in the afternoon yesterday.) PECO said that only 9 of the 8,000 homes in Springfield were affected - the church considered 2 of those! Scott was heading there early anyway and left soon after.
When I arrived there at 9am there was still no power and it was unclear how things would go. One thing was for sure - the service would go on!! (in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes. 2 Corinthians 2:11)
The kids were in the nursery as usual, albeit still with their coats on. The congregation stayed in their overcoats and huddled together in the seats. Someone brought some blankets, another a propane heater!
The music was quieter than usual with no sound system, but somehow was as powerful if not more. Picture a campfire-type atmosphere!!
I stood up and did the announcements, urging guests to bear with us and assuring them we paid the bills!! It was quite the feat since I had not worn socks and my feet were solid ice!!
Fast forward and Scott took the platform, in his new suit and cool as a cucumber (literally!).
It was cold, so Scott had his hands in his pockets!!
And this is where I post the video I took of the message - except that YouTube won't let me upload anything longer than 15 minutes! :-( With Christina's help we got it in two parts...
The second service was a little different. The kids all had to stay upstairs because there was a problem with the downstairs with no power. There were about 20+ kids of all ages in the sanctuary, but you know what - they were barely noticeable. As someone put it afterwards, of course they were quiet - Uncle Scott was talking!! (He is Uncle Scott to all the kids in our church!)
The message was great, again and several people went up to the altar for prayer following the message. And then it happened...
The lights came on as soon as the second message was over!!! The devil may have tried to halt the service, but the personal trials we had faced earlier in the week put us on alert and we were on the lookout!!
Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, 1 Peter 5:8-9a
If you want to see the video Scott was talking about you can see it here.
Over the past few weeks Scott has been super busy so this week was the first time he really got going in earnest. First let me mention that Scott will take hours to prepare for the Sundays when he leads a 5 minute prayer and offering time! He battles nerves, feelings of unworthiness, but always gets up and does great.
I am so proud and invited everyone we know. To us, and our friends, this is the equivalent to someone who likes music giving their first solo performance!! Scott's a rock star to me!!
For this message though he really didn't seem to concerned, peaceful almost. He prepared his sermon and we worked together on a handout and a powerpoint for the big screen. We finished up the latter around midnight last night!
This morning at 7am Scott got a call on his cellphone, from Grant, who set's the church up for service. A tree fell over and there was no power to the church and it was freezing inside. (We had a power cut for a couple of hours in the afternoon yesterday.) PECO said that only 9 of the 8,000 homes in Springfield were affected - the church considered 2 of those! Scott was heading there early anyway and left soon after.
When I arrived there at 9am there was still no power and it was unclear how things would go. One thing was for sure - the service would go on!! (in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes. 2 Corinthians 2:11)
The kids were in the nursery as usual, albeit still with their coats on. The congregation stayed in their overcoats and huddled together in the seats. Someone brought some blankets, another a propane heater!
The music was quieter than usual with no sound system, but somehow was as powerful if not more. Picture a campfire-type atmosphere!!
I stood up and did the announcements, urging guests to bear with us and assuring them we paid the bills!! It was quite the feat since I had not worn socks and my feet were solid ice!!
Fast forward and Scott took the platform, in his new suit and cool as a cucumber (literally!).
It was cold, so Scott had his hands in his pockets!!
And this is where I post the video I took of the message - except that YouTube won't let me upload anything longer than 15 minutes! :-( With Christina's help we got it in two parts...
The second service was a little different. The kids all had to stay upstairs because there was a problem with the downstairs with no power. There were about 20+ kids of all ages in the sanctuary, but you know what - they were barely noticeable. As someone put it afterwards, of course they were quiet - Uncle Scott was talking!! (He is Uncle Scott to all the kids in our church!)
The message was great, again and several people went up to the altar for prayer following the message. And then it happened...
The lights came on as soon as the second message was over!!! The devil may have tried to halt the service, but the personal trials we had faced earlier in the week put us on alert and we were on the lookout!!
Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, 1 Peter 5:8-9a
If you want to see the video Scott was talking about you can see it here.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Spring Fling
It's been a good week, not perfect, but good!
Here are some pictures and updates on the kids.
I tried my Mum's suggestion of putting plastic down so Emma can color without Toby trashing my carpet or table.
Turned out the problem was neither of those, but instead eating the markers/crayons and trashing Emma's work!!
The kids are getting more fun when I leave them alone long enough that they want to play with each other and not me...
Or watching TV together...
Sunday night Scott fell asleep after giving Toby a breathing treatment. The poor baby (Toby!) had some problems with the cold he had last week, but is fine now.
Tuesday night the kids and I went to a friends for dinner, while Scott was working on the church renovation. It was just what I needed after many days alone with the kids. The kids had a great time too!
At physical therapy Emma loves the swing, and has the therapists changing the various swings every couple minutes. As they change them she comes and sits with me, calling over "Is my swing ready yet?"
Today was a fling with spring (see the link with the title!!). The weather was warm, about 60f and after hitting the supermarket I let the kids play outside for a few minutes - the first time this year, and Toby's first time as a walker!
This is Toby channeling Popeye!!
The big event this week was this afternoon. The pre-school we visited asked me to bring her back in to meet the teachers. The director had told the teacher about Emma and I guess they were worried about her limitations and wanted to see how she would do.
We got there as the class was sitting down together on the rug for circle time. Emma was invited to go and sit with the kids and rather than sitting on the floor, she went straight to the "special" chair next to the teacher!
The class then had snack. This made me nervous. They were having little cookies, but Emma kept saying she wasn't hungry, but wanted a drink. I didn't take her sippy cup and they just used small open cups. She refused, as expected. They found her a juice box, which she couldn't manage alone, but I squeezed and she drank from happily. The teacher agreed to let her use a sippy cup when she attends, if still necessary.
Of course, not long after that she told me she needed to be vented! Emma never normally needs venting outside of tube feeds, so this was not good. I took her into the hallway so's not to bring attention to it. I am hoping this is not an issue in the fall - I'm hoping the tube could be out!!
Emma had a great time and joined in with all the activities and other kids. One of the 12 kids is a girl in Emma's Sunday school class, so she took Emma under her wing and mothered her!
By the end of the 2 hours Emma was endeared to both teachers and most of the kids - although they will not be in her class.
The other concerns we had were using the potty - she is a little small to do that by herself. The teacher said that shouldn't be a problem.
Both of us enjoyed the time. I felt much better about sending Emma to school and she had a taste of the future and liked it! I have to admit I was also really proud that Emma is on a level with kids a year older!
Here are some pictures and updates on the kids.
I tried my Mum's suggestion of putting plastic down so Emma can color without Toby trashing my carpet or table.
Turned out the problem was neither of those, but instead eating the markers/crayons and trashing Emma's work!!The kids are getting more fun when I leave them alone long enough that they want to play with each other and not me...
Or watching TV together...
Sunday night Scott fell asleep after giving Toby a breathing treatment. The poor baby (Toby!) had some problems with the cold he had last week, but is fine now.
Tuesday night the kids and I went to a friends for dinner, while Scott was working on the church renovation. It was just what I needed after many days alone with the kids. The kids had a great time too!
At physical therapy Emma loves the swing, and has the therapists changing the various swings every couple minutes. As they change them she comes and sits with me, calling over "Is my swing ready yet?"
Today was a fling with spring (see the link with the title!!). The weather was warm, about 60f and after hitting the supermarket I let the kids play outside for a few minutes - the first time this year, and Toby's first time as a walker!
This is Toby channeling Popeye!!
The big event this week was this afternoon. The pre-school we visited asked me to bring her back in to meet the teachers. The director had told the teacher about Emma and I guess they were worried about her limitations and wanted to see how she would do.
We got there as the class was sitting down together on the rug for circle time. Emma was invited to go and sit with the kids and rather than sitting on the floor, she went straight to the "special" chair next to the teacher!
The class then had snack. This made me nervous. They were having little cookies, but Emma kept saying she wasn't hungry, but wanted a drink. I didn't take her sippy cup and they just used small open cups. She refused, as expected. They found her a juice box, which she couldn't manage alone, but I squeezed and she drank from happily. The teacher agreed to let her use a sippy cup when she attends, if still necessary.
Of course, not long after that she told me she needed to be vented! Emma never normally needs venting outside of tube feeds, so this was not good. I took her into the hallway so's not to bring attention to it. I am hoping this is not an issue in the fall - I'm hoping the tube could be out!!
Emma had a great time and joined in with all the activities and other kids. One of the 12 kids is a girl in Emma's Sunday school class, so she took Emma under her wing and mothered her!
By the end of the 2 hours Emma was endeared to both teachers and most of the kids - although they will not be in her class.
The other concerns we had were using the potty - she is a little small to do that by herself. The teacher said that shouldn't be a problem.
Both of us enjoyed the time. I felt much better about sending Emma to school and she had a taste of the future and liked it! I have to admit I was also really proud that Emma is on a level with kids a year older!
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Friday, February 11, 2011
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Haircut
Christina has clippers and practice cutting her boys hair.
He was quite the challenge and I went from holding his head still in
the high chair to holding him horizontal in my arms!! Still, it looks
pretty good!
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Monday, February 7, 2011
Mii Time
Scott asked two things of me yesterday after I told him how I was feeling (he wants me to be home with the kids, unless I want to work for the social aspect! Love him!). The first was to not miss him too much when he's working long hours. The second was to turn the TV off as much as possible! (The second makes the first harder and vice versa!!)
Every day presents a choice after naptime. Either keep the kids busy and happy, or make dinner so that we can all eat together. Recently it's been easier because Scott is working late, so I keep the kids happy and then make them something quick (but not nutritious!) for dinner. We eat later.
However, Scott's about to head up a big church renovation which will keep him out most nights from 6pm to 10pm and Saturdays. So I want to make the most of the time he's home, especially having dinner together before he goes. So tonight I chose to make dinner. I also tried to keep the TV off!
It was fine at first, both kids in their high chairs with a piece of toast! (Emma still has the high chair because she's so little it makes it easier for her to feed herself.) Emma had the DS while Toby ate. TV off.
When Toby started to get restless Emma was amusing him. I watched as she would yell something at him and they'd both crack up. That only lasted until the toast was done.
When I let them out Toby was a fussy mess, but I was determined to make the chicken casserole I had planned for dinner. I ignored the crying at the kitchen gate, but when he climbed up on the table I grabbed him for time out in the Pack n Play! More crying.
Scott arrived home shortly after and took them off my hands. A friend dropped by unexpected which distracted the kids from the TV for a while longer. Then Scott took a shower and got the kids bathed while I finished up dinner. No TV.
We sat down to dinner, but Emma did not want to eat the casserole. Normally they'd both be facing the TV but tonight we sat round the table. Toby started eating and eventually Emma agreed - and finished her plate! No TV.
After dinner Scott brought the Wii down from our room so we could have some family fun - technically it was TV, but not programming!! Emma had a great time bowling and playing baseball, before Scott and I played some tennis.
It was a nice change and after a while Emma stopped asking to watch her "shows". We kept Toby amused with the spare Wii-mote and then Scott's cellphone!
Of course, we had to update Emma's Mii and create a new one for Toby...
I'm doing much better. I want to thank my friend that called and let me know I'm not the only one who feels like this. That's probably the worst part, when you feel like you're alone. I know I can trust God to provide, I guess I'm just really struggling to trust Him, to do it His way. And that is a daily decision that I'll be making for the rest of my life.
I liken it to driving in fog, where you can only just see the car in front of you. You can't see the road ahead, but you trust that if you drive slow, and stay on the road, you'll come out the other side.
Every day presents a choice after naptime. Either keep the kids busy and happy, or make dinner so that we can all eat together. Recently it's been easier because Scott is working late, so I keep the kids happy and then make them something quick (but not nutritious!) for dinner. We eat later.
However, Scott's about to head up a big church renovation which will keep him out most nights from 6pm to 10pm and Saturdays. So I want to make the most of the time he's home, especially having dinner together before he goes. So tonight I chose to make dinner. I also tried to keep the TV off!
It was fine at first, both kids in their high chairs with a piece of toast! (Emma still has the high chair because she's so little it makes it easier for her to feed herself.) Emma had the DS while Toby ate. TV off.
When Toby started to get restless Emma was amusing him. I watched as she would yell something at him and they'd both crack up. That only lasted until the toast was done.
When I let them out Toby was a fussy mess, but I was determined to make the chicken casserole I had planned for dinner. I ignored the crying at the kitchen gate, but when he climbed up on the table I grabbed him for time out in the Pack n Play! More crying.
Scott arrived home shortly after and took them off my hands. A friend dropped by unexpected which distracted the kids from the TV for a while longer. Then Scott took a shower and got the kids bathed while I finished up dinner. No TV.
We sat down to dinner, but Emma did not want to eat the casserole. Normally they'd both be facing the TV but tonight we sat round the table. Toby started eating and eventually Emma agreed - and finished her plate! No TV.
After dinner Scott brought the Wii down from our room so we could have some family fun - technically it was TV, but not programming!! Emma had a great time bowling and playing baseball, before Scott and I played some tennis.
It was a nice change and after a while Emma stopped asking to watch her "shows". We kept Toby amused with the spare Wii-mote and then Scott's cellphone!
Of course, we had to update Emma's Mii and create a new one for Toby...
I'm doing much better. I want to thank my friend that called and let me know I'm not the only one who feels like this. That's probably the worst part, when you feel like you're alone. I know I can trust God to provide, I guess I'm just really struggling to trust Him, to do it His way. And that is a daily decision that I'll be making for the rest of my life.I liken it to driving in fog, where you can only just see the car in front of you. You can't see the road ahead, but you trust that if you drive slow, and stay on the road, you'll come out the other side.
It's a process
While the kids were eating their lunch, watching TV, I found myself crying my eyes out on my knees in the kitchen. I didn't know what else to do.
This morning was like most other mornings in our house. Scott went to work before the kids woke up. When the kids got up we came downstairs and I put the TV on for them while I made breakfast. They both ate well and then got down to play.
All the while in my head I'm replaying the same thoughts over and over. Things are going okay, really. Scott has work and we think it will be there for at least a few weeks. At the basic level it's really not enough, but here and there he gets an extra job to meet the need.
After doing a well-paid freelance project in January and the odd bit last year I am increasingly anxious about whether I should seek more permanent employment and take the pressure off Scott, but in doing so we would incur costs, and the kids who already only see a little of Scott would hardly see me.
I started to fixate on the finances, and create a list of "if only..." and "maybe..." in my head. I knew that wasn't a good use of my energy or time so I did what I tell everyone else to do and pulled out the scriptures.
Matthew 6:
25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?
This morning was like most other mornings in our house. Scott went to work before the kids woke up. When the kids got up we came downstairs and I put the TV on for them while I made breakfast. They both ate well and then got down to play.
All the while in my head I'm replaying the same thoughts over and over. Things are going okay, really. Scott has work and we think it will be there for at least a few weeks. At the basic level it's really not enough, but here and there he gets an extra job to meet the need.
After doing a well-paid freelance project in January and the odd bit last year I am increasingly anxious about whether I should seek more permanent employment and take the pressure off Scott, but in doing so we would incur costs, and the kids who already only see a little of Scott would hardly see me.
I started to fixate on the finances, and create a list of "if only..." and "maybe..." in my head. I knew that wasn't a good use of my energy or time so I did what I tell everyone else to do and pulled out the scriptures.
Matthew 6:
25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?
28 “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? 31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Matthew 10:
26 “So do not be afraid of them, for there is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. 27 What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs. 28 Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. 29 Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. 30 And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. 31 So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
I felt better for a little while, but then I allowed thoughts to creep back in. What if we need to replace the car? How will we...?
The worst part about this kind of thinking is that you become paralyzed. There are no answers because there is no way to see the future (unless you choose a path where you make things happen regardless of the law or God's will). No matter how frustrated I get at the situation, I won't condone that. We see many guys claiming unemployment while doing work for cash - it's not right.
Scott texted me back after I dragged him into it and said that if I needed to get out of the house then we could find a way for me to work. Then I felt guilty about not wanting to work, but also not feeling like I was doing the best for the kids. A friend popped in and said we should go for a walk because the weather was not as bad. I had no desire to leave the house!
Then I started worrying about the kids. I get alot of guilt about not teaching them more at home. I don't let Emma color or do puzzles because Toby tries to eat everything and then Emma gets upset when he messes with her stuff! Then I have no idea what to do with Toby. I had guidance for Emma and she was so much more willing to sit and interact. Toby is not like that.
I get these weekly emails about the progress of my "16 month old: week 1" and yesterday it said something about 10 essential nutrients, which my kids do not get! As I figure out lunch I try hard to think of a way to get them to eat healthier.
In the back of my head I feel like a complete failure as a mother (interesting since I just joined a bible study on mothering without guilt!), as I prepare chicken nuggets and baked beans. Putting green beans and carrots in the baked beans gives me a little peace, especially when Emma ate them without fuss. Toby on the other hand resisted!
While they were eating Scott and I were texting again and he told me to read Psalm 139. I read it and started crying. It can be so hard to apply truth that you see for others to yourself. I believe totally that God loves everyone, despite our flaws and sees us as the children he wants us to become, not as we are. This is great news - you don't need to worry about what you are lacking or screw up when you come to God. He's just looking for a humble heart, repentance of sin and desire to follow Jesus - the forgiver.
Except me. Other people may feel like this too. But I'm just to lazy/selfish/stubborn/[insert criticism here] for God to ever truly love me. However, [as I write this] I realize that God loved us before we ever became like that or did those things that we feel are unforgivable. He loved us before we were born and he still loves us that way.
What made me stop crying? Emma: "Mommy? Is that you?"
As I look at Emma now (Toby's in bed), under the table tickling my feet, I get it. She's not perfect and does things she shouldn't (no, really she does!), but I love her with all my heart and will always try to give her what's best for her. Regardless of how she responds to me. The same with Toby of course. Thank God that He has more patience with me than I do with my kids!!
When I can't see how things will work out, there is a strong temptation for me to try and take control of the situation. While it might be understandable to go get a job, I'm not sure that's what I'm supposed to do. The temptation to worry and ultimately try and play god in my life could do more harm than good!
Matthew 11:28
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Choose Faith and Acknowledge God's Control
by Tom Holladay
“Everything in the heavens and earth is yours, O Lord … we adore you as being in control of everything.” 1 Chronicles 29:11 (LB)
When Jesus rebuked the wind and the waves in Matthew 8 the disciples were amazed and asked each other, “Who is this that even the winds and the sea obey him?” (Matthew 8:27 LB).
In that moment, they acknowledged God’s control. They realized there was no reason to worry because the God who commands galaxies with a word and holds molecules together with his power was right there in their boat.
Why do we worry? Because we try to do what only God can do. We try to control the uncontrollable, explain the unexplainable, do the undoable, stop the unstoppable, fix the unfixable, bear the unbearable; and then we wonder why we are messed up.
Only God is in control. That may leave you wondering, “If God is in control, why doesn’t he change this, or do that, or make this thing better?” Honestly, I don’t know. But I do know that I trust him. And I have found time and again that he is trustworthy. This world is not all there is. There is an eternity to come where everything will be made right and just.
God has allowed evil for a time, but it will not be forever. So I’m going to put my trust in him because he is the only one in control.
In the meantime, what should you do? Jesus says, “Don’t be anxious about tomorrow. God will take care of your tomorrow, too. Live one day at a time” (Matthew 6:34 LB).
This doesn’t mean you don’t plan for the future. You should continue to set goals; in fact the Bible says it’s wise to set goals. But once you set those goals that might guide your direction, then you live one day at a time. If you decide to worry about what is going to happen tomorrow, you’ll miss out on what God wants you to do today.
The therapist asked her if she needed help, I told her she didn't!
The only guidance I gave was verbal ("just three lines on the E" and
"next an M") and the rest was all her.
She says "up down up down" when she does an M and "up down across" for the A!
Allie, the therapist said she was the youngest child she's ever seen
write her name like that.
Emma also messed with Allie by saying random words like "lemon" when
asked to tell her what a picture was of. Emma found it hilarious (as
did I) but allie didn't realize it was intentional at first!
It was only a half hour session but she was clearly bored. Next week
we're getting an hour so it should be interesting!!
Solidarity
Toby wanted to join her!!
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Stormy weather
The storm of the century hit the country yesterday and I am so thankful that we really only caught the edge of it. We were forecast widespread ice up to 4" thick due to freezing rain, but in our area the precipitation was just rain after about 3am and does not seem to have done much damage.
For you who are not familiar with this kind of weather, it doesn't just impact the road, but power lines and trees can come down with the weight of the ice.
When I looked out this morning it was so pretty. Our trees are coated with ice, so every tiny branch looks like it's made of glass. I don't know if you can see it in the pictures here...
For you who are not familiar with this kind of weather, it doesn't just impact the road, but power lines and trees can come down with the weight of the ice.
When I looked out this morning it was so pretty. Our trees are coated with ice, so every tiny branch looks like it's made of glass. I don't know if you can see it in the pictures here...
Of course, the schools are opening 2 hours late, which means that Emma misses Physical Therapy again. At this rate she'll be lucky to get therapy once a month, let alone every week.Scott's working for a company in the city doing maintenance work right now. It's not a full-time position but they have been keeping him busy. And because it's inside, the weather does not affect him like it does on many construction jobs outside. No word on getting any union work, long or short term, it seems to be as scarce as it's ever been.
I read a book on Wednesday (the whole book in 4 hours!) instead of watching TV when the kids were in bed. The Land Between uses the story of the Israelites wandering in the desert, between the slavery they left in Egypt heading to the promised land.
They had never experienced a relationship with God during their enslavement, so when they found themselves literally in a desert with nothing they had to choose to either trust God - that he loved them and would provide (after all he did rescue them from slavery as they had prayed)...
The LORD said, “I have indeed seen the misery of my people in Egypt. I have heard them crying out because of their slave drivers, and I am concerned about their suffering. 8 So I have come down to rescue them from the hand of the Egyptians and to bring them up out of that land into a good and spacious land, a land flowing with milk and honey. Exodus 3:7-8
or would they deny the truth they had heard of their forefathers Abraham and Joseph, and grumble, complain and take matters into their own hands...
So the people grumbled against Moses, saying, “What are we to drink?” Exodus 15:24
In the desert the whole community grumbled against Moses and Aaron. The Israelites said to them, “If only we had died by the LORD’s hand in Egypt! There we sat around pots of meat and ate all the food we wanted, but you have brought us out into this desert to starve this entire assembly to death.” Exodus 16:2-3
Then the LORD said to Moses, “Go down, because your people, whom you brought up out of Egypt, have become corrupt. They have been quick to turn away from what I commanded them and have made themselves an idol cast in the shape of a calf. Exodus 32:7-8
The Israelites struggled to trust God. Even though God had been faithful to keep his promises to all, and even provided bread from heaven, literally - Then the LORD said to Moses, “I will rain down bread from heaven for you. The people are to go out each day and gather enough for that day. In this way I will test them and see whether they will follow my instructions. On the sixth day they are to prepare what they bring in, and that is to be twice as much as they gather on the other days.” Exodus 16: 4-5
What was the purpose of experiencing this total dependence on God in the wilderness? Because they were going to inherit the promised land, the purpose for which they were chosen. It would not come without struggles and battles, for which they would need to have a solid faith in God if they were to find success.
We may have avoided the ice storm, but there are constantly storms raging all around us in life. While our faith can build when we are in a quiet time and things are going smoothly, it is during the times of great testing that we truly learn to trust God and experience his power in our lives.
We've done all we can to secure our position financially - within God's will. Now we are in his hands, and their is no safer place to be.
Root of the Problem
Tree roots. That's right, those beautiful trees in our front yard caused the blockage in our drain. The fine roots (though one was at least 1/8") grow through the cracks in the sections of drain pipes and clog up like a giant hair ball.
We are so thankful to a friend of ours, who happens to be a plumber. He came over Saturday night and helped diagnose the problem, only to return Sunday afternoon with a crazy contraption that forces heavy cable out through the drain pipe and pulls out the clogs.
It was awesome that he came on a Sunday to fix it - and I am very grateful to his wife, knowing how frustrating it can be when your spouse is out on the only day of rest!
While the drains are clear for now, we'll probably need to add it to the list of routine maintenance you never think about when you buy a house. Ah, I'm not really annoyed, just relieved it's not serious and I can work on catching up on the mountain of laundry and dishes that has piled up. (Don't make meatballs when you won't be able to do the dishes - not a good mess!)
While I think about it, the little spiritual lesson I got yesterday seems even more profound now. The tiniest little slivers can work their way into the smallest cracks in our armor, and eventually block the healthy flow in our lives. Translation: bad habits might not seem like a big deal, but if you have 50 bad habits, together they combine to make us ineffective and stagnant.
Even if you work at clearing all the bad habits away in one fell swoop, the chances are that they will grow back unless you develop a new habit. For me the bad habits I can think of immediately are putting the TV on [for no reason], choosing the internet instead of my bible, playing before praying. Even doing chores rather than playing with my kids when they want nothing more. Sometimes we just need to do something more important.
LOL, I may be stretching the experience to get this lesson out of it! But it's still a lesson I need to learn.
We are so thankful to a friend of ours, who happens to be a plumber. He came over Saturday night and helped diagnose the problem, only to return Sunday afternoon with a crazy contraption that forces heavy cable out through the drain pipe and pulls out the clogs.
It was awesome that he came on a Sunday to fix it - and I am very grateful to his wife, knowing how frustrating it can be when your spouse is out on the only day of rest!
While the drains are clear for now, we'll probably need to add it to the list of routine maintenance you never think about when you buy a house. Ah, I'm not really annoyed, just relieved it's not serious and I can work on catching up on the mountain of laundry and dishes that has piled up. (Don't make meatballs when you won't be able to do the dishes - not a good mess!)
While I think about it, the little spiritual lesson I got yesterday seems even more profound now. The tiniest little slivers can work their way into the smallest cracks in our armor, and eventually block the healthy flow in our lives. Translation: bad habits might not seem like a big deal, but if you have 50 bad habits, together they combine to make us ineffective and stagnant.
Even if you work at clearing all the bad habits away in one fell swoop, the chances are that they will grow back unless you develop a new habit. For me the bad habits I can think of immediately are putting the TV on [for no reason], choosing the internet instead of my bible, playing before praying. Even doing chores rather than playing with my kids when they want nothing more. Sometimes we just need to do something more important.
LOL, I may be stretching the experience to get this lesson out of it! But it's still a lesson I need to learn.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Sleep storm
My plan worked on Saturday night, at least with Toby! He slept through the night and has been pretty agreeable ever since. I'm also trying to tire him out before bed. He's waking up at 6am of course - you can't have it both ways!!
Emma on the other hand is a fighting me all the way. Saturday night I agreed to let her sleep in a princess costume. I thought this was a great idea. If it's not a costume, she keeps changing her mind about the pajamas she wants to wear.
The details are sketchy since it was the middle of the night, but I know that once I was called in and she just had to change her costume AND pull-up (not wet). For a quiet life I agreed and told her to go back to sleep.
Around 3am I heard our bedroom door open and Emma came in. This has happened only a handful of times but I could have lost my mind when she said she wanted to change her outfit again!
Sunday night was not much better and that was after she did everything possible to avoid sleep.
Last night I got tough with her. She had to wear the same pajamas as the night before. I acquiesced to letting her wear a diaper to bed - she seems to prefer that to a pull-up and I'm not really bothered!
She went to bed at the same time as normal but cried pretty much the entire time until she eventually went to sleep. I really did my best to stay calm - I was proud of myself as I kept cool through the 4 or 5 trips to her room when she was in danger of waking Toby.
At one point, after she calmed down she said "I know - how bout I sleep downstairs for a little bit?" That's the fight now, Emma wants to stay downstairs or sleep in our bed. I calmly told her that I love her very much, but no matter how much she cries she is not sleeping downstairs.
It's our own fault. I don't think we realized the fine line between indulging Emma's creativity and independence, by allowing regular dress-up and agreeing to requests along those lines, and just spoiling her. It started with the food, just being thankful that she would eat anything and giving her whatever she wanted.
Now I'm working to correct the balance by offering limited choices and occasional refusals. It seems all the more crucial now as we look forward.
On Thursday we are going to tour a pre-school for Emma to attend in the fall. She will only be going Tuesday and Thursday afternoons, and as she will turn 4 in November, she'll be one of the older kids in the 3 yr old class.
I was excited about the prospect as I know she will love it. Just seeing how much she enjoys Sunday School - she was pretending to be the teacher this week, telling the other kids to sit and listen to the story.
However, Scott brought me crashing down when he shared his fears. I could only agree with him that we want to protect Emma from the cruelty that other kids can show. We simply don't know how it will go.
In my recent experience kids who are a couple of years older notice that Emma has some different characteristics. It's not the paralysis, or even her eyes that draw most attention, but her mouth. Emma top lip is barely there and does not cover her top teeth at all. It's something I discussed with the plastic surgeon in November, but there seems to be nothing they can do to change it.
My hope is that, as it is at church, the kids her own age seem almost oblivious to a difference. Many of them having their own speech issues or just being far too worried about themselves. Clearly this will change as they grow out of that stage and it may be more obvious.
Our other concern is that the pre-school is not in our school district, so the kids she will meet and befriend will not join her when she starts school in a couple of years. We would like to use a local pre-school, but we don't have same references for them. The class she will be in has two teachers for twelve kids, allowing them to have lots of time for each one. We will need them to let us know of any issues.
We are pretty much in agreement that as parents, no matter what, the best we can do is to ensure that Emma knows how much she is loved and valued by us, God and her family and friends. It's a message that all children need to be given by their parents so they don't question their self-worth because of detractors or mistakes.
Emma on the other hand is a fighting me all the way. Saturday night I agreed to let her sleep in a princess costume. I thought this was a great idea. If it's not a costume, she keeps changing her mind about the pajamas she wants to wear.
The details are sketchy since it was the middle of the night, but I know that once I was called in and she just had to change her costume AND pull-up (not wet). For a quiet life I agreed and told her to go back to sleep.
Around 3am I heard our bedroom door open and Emma came in. This has happened only a handful of times but I could have lost my mind when she said she wanted to change her outfit again!
Sunday night was not much better and that was after she did everything possible to avoid sleep.
Last night I got tough with her. She had to wear the same pajamas as the night before. I acquiesced to letting her wear a diaper to bed - she seems to prefer that to a pull-up and I'm not really bothered!
She went to bed at the same time as normal but cried pretty much the entire time until she eventually went to sleep. I really did my best to stay calm - I was proud of myself as I kept cool through the 4 or 5 trips to her room when she was in danger of waking Toby.
At one point, after she calmed down she said "I know - how bout I sleep downstairs for a little bit?" That's the fight now, Emma wants to stay downstairs or sleep in our bed. I calmly told her that I love her very much, but no matter how much she cries she is not sleeping downstairs.
It's our own fault. I don't think we realized the fine line between indulging Emma's creativity and independence, by allowing regular dress-up and agreeing to requests along those lines, and just spoiling her. It started with the food, just being thankful that she would eat anything and giving her whatever she wanted.
Now I'm working to correct the balance by offering limited choices and occasional refusals. It seems all the more crucial now as we look forward.
On Thursday we are going to tour a pre-school for Emma to attend in the fall. She will only be going Tuesday and Thursday afternoons, and as she will turn 4 in November, she'll be one of the older kids in the 3 yr old class.
I was excited about the prospect as I know she will love it. Just seeing how much she enjoys Sunday School - she was pretending to be the teacher this week, telling the other kids to sit and listen to the story.
However, Scott brought me crashing down when he shared his fears. I could only agree with him that we want to protect Emma from the cruelty that other kids can show. We simply don't know how it will go.
In my recent experience kids who are a couple of years older notice that Emma has some different characteristics. It's not the paralysis, or even her eyes that draw most attention, but her mouth. Emma top lip is barely there and does not cover her top teeth at all. It's something I discussed with the plastic surgeon in November, but there seems to be nothing they can do to change it.
My hope is that, as it is at church, the kids her own age seem almost oblivious to a difference. Many of them having their own speech issues or just being far too worried about themselves. Clearly this will change as they grow out of that stage and it may be more obvious.
Our other concern is that the pre-school is not in our school district, so the kids she will meet and befriend will not join her when she starts school in a couple of years. We would like to use a local pre-school, but we don't have same references for them. The class she will be in has two teachers for twelve kids, allowing them to have lots of time for each one. We will need them to let us know of any issues.
We are pretty much in agreement that as parents, no matter what, the best we can do is to ensure that Emma knows how much she is loved and valued by us, God and her family and friends. It's a message that all children need to be given by their parents so they don't question their self-worth because of detractors or mistakes.
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