What is that coming out in the dark? Screech!!!! Help!!
I t-h-i-n-k it might be an ALIEN!!!
oohhhhh....Screeeech .......Must have LOTS of candy
for the little candy seekers this year!
OH MY GOODNESS!!!! help.....
Friday, October 30, 2009
H-A-L-L-O-W-E-E-N
What is that coming out in the dark? Screech!!!! Help!!
I t-h-i-n-k it might be an ALIEN!!!
oohhhhh....Screeeech .......Must have LOTS of candy
for the little candy seekers this year!
OH MY GOODNESS!!!! help.....
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Their Deliverer is Coming Soon
Jill Stanek gave a presentation at the Life Way Pregnancy Services' fundraising banquet last week. In her testimony she describes the abortions she witnessed at the hospital that she worked in. The mothers-to-be, wanting an abortion, were caused to have an “induced labor abortion”, whereby medication given would cause the cervix to open, causing the baby to be delivered. These premature “aborted” babies then either died during the birth process, or soon afterwards.
Some of the babies lived for an hour, or two, and she knew of one baby who lived through most of an 8 hour shift. These beautiful little babies, born alive, are given to the mother to hold until baby dies, or to a nurse. If the mother does not want to hold the baby, and the nurse is busy, the baby was put into the soiled utility room to die alone. She related to us of an incident where a staff worker accidentally threw a baby, that was wrapped in a disposable towel, into the trash. Later when they searched the trash to find it, the BABY fell out of the towel and onto the floor. Since the baby wasn't taken to the morgue yet, I am only assuming that he, or she, was still alive.
After Jill Stanek testified before Congress, on what was going on at the hospital, the “Born Alive Infants Protection Act” was passed. This law states that a baby who is “completely expelled or extracted” alive from his or her mother at any stage of gestation, and whether viable or not, is a person worthy of protection.
The hospital that she worked in has now opened a Comfort Room. Here babies born alive can receive comfort care. Parents or staff have a rocking chair where they can rock the dying baby. A First Foto machine is available for parents to have a picture of their aborted child. Also available are baptismal supplies, gowns and certificates, footprinting equipment and baby bracelets for mementos.
In her speech Jill Stanek also told of an abortion wherein the mother did not know that her baby was a real baby (the doctor lied). After her “induced labor abortion” she saw the little baby and was traumatized. She screamed for someone to help her baby. They brought in a neonatal doctor, but he could do nothing….the baby was too premature.
How callous our nation has become! These girls and women are deceived into being partakers in the killing of their baby. The abortionist and the clinic get the dollars and the woman gets the guilt. Society sees one less mouth to feed and the woman sees a dead baby.
How great is the betrayal by the doctors who comfort these women into accepting the lie that abortion doesn’t kill a child. What great trauma these women carry with them over the years! What mother doesn't know that babies don’t ever leave them — children are forever. Pregnancy Centers and some churches are opening their doors to these mothers. Forgiveness and peace can only be found through the Lord and His Hope and His promises.
The Bible tells us that babies are living beings before they are born:
In the following verse, God’s messenger knew Elizabeth’s baby would be a boy baby: Luke 1:13 "But the angel said to him, 'Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John.'"
In the following verses God’s messenger knew Mary’s baby would be a boy baby: Luke 1:30 "Then the angel said to her, 'Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS.'"
In the following verse Mary, a virgin, is to have a baby boy. The Spirit of God came in this child, as such this precious little baby became the Son of God.
Luke 1:26 "Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, 27 to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. 28 And having come in, the angel said to her, 'Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!'
“29 But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. 30 Then the angel said to her, 'Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS. 32 He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. 33 And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.'
“ 34 Then Mary said to the angel, 'How can this be, since I do not know a man?'
“35 And the angel answered and said to her, 'The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. 36 Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. 37 For with God nothing will be impossible.'”
'38 Then Mary said, 'Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.' And the angel departed from her.
In the following verses Baby John recognized and "knew" the Holy Spirit at six months. It wasn’t a blob of tissue that jumped for joy—-it was a baby!
Mary Visits Elizabeth "39 Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, 40 and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. 41 And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. 42 Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, 'Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! 43 But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. 45 Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.'"
David declares God as the creator: Psalms 139:13 “For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb. 14 I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well.”
In 1 Peter 2:16, we are told, “Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a coverup for evil; live as servants of God.”
The Lord is not silent, He is making ready the day of His return. The cries of all these little babies has been heard and their Deliverer is coming soon— He is the Awesome and Almighty God of All--The King of Kings and Lord of Lords and mighty and terrible will be that day!
Some of the babies lived for an hour, or two, and she knew of one baby who lived through most of an 8 hour shift. These beautiful little babies, born alive, are given to the mother to hold until baby dies, or to a nurse. If the mother does not want to hold the baby, and the nurse is busy, the baby was put into the soiled utility room to die alone. She related to us of an incident where a staff worker accidentally threw a baby, that was wrapped in a disposable towel, into the trash. Later when they searched the trash to find it, the BABY fell out of the towel and onto the floor. Since the baby wasn't taken to the morgue yet, I am only assuming that he, or she, was still alive.
After Jill Stanek testified before Congress, on what was going on at the hospital, the “Born Alive Infants Protection Act” was passed. This law states that a baby who is “completely expelled or extracted” alive from his or her mother at any stage of gestation, and whether viable or not, is a person worthy of protection.
The hospital that she worked in has now opened a Comfort Room. Here babies born alive can receive comfort care. Parents or staff have a rocking chair where they can rock the dying baby. A First Foto machine is available for parents to have a picture of their aborted child. Also available are baptismal supplies, gowns and certificates, footprinting equipment and baby bracelets for mementos.
In her speech Jill Stanek also told of an abortion wherein the mother did not know that her baby was a real baby (the doctor lied). After her “induced labor abortion” she saw the little baby and was traumatized. She screamed for someone to help her baby. They brought in a neonatal doctor, but he could do nothing….the baby was too premature.
How callous our nation has become! These girls and women are deceived into being partakers in the killing of their baby. The abortionist and the clinic get the dollars and the woman gets the guilt. Society sees one less mouth to feed and the woman sees a dead baby.
How great is the betrayal by the doctors who comfort these women into accepting the lie that abortion doesn’t kill a child. What great trauma these women carry with them over the years! What mother doesn't know that babies don’t ever leave them — children are forever. Pregnancy Centers and some churches are opening their doors to these mothers. Forgiveness and peace can only be found through the Lord and His Hope and His promises.
The Bible tells us that babies are living beings before they are born:
In the following verse, God’s messenger knew Elizabeth’s baby would be a boy baby: Luke 1:13 "But the angel said to him, 'Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John.'"
In the following verses God’s messenger knew Mary’s baby would be a boy baby: Luke 1:30 "Then the angel said to her, 'Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS.'"
In the following verse Mary, a virgin, is to have a baby boy. The Spirit of God came in this child, as such this precious little baby became the Son of God.
Luke 1:26 "Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, 27 to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. 28 And having come in, the angel said to her, 'Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!'
“29 But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. 30 Then the angel said to her, 'Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS. 32 He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. 33 And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.'
“ 34 Then Mary said to the angel, 'How can this be, since I do not know a man?'
“35 And the angel answered and said to her, 'The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. 36 Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. 37 For with God nothing will be impossible.'”
'38 Then Mary said, 'Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.' And the angel departed from her.
In the following verses Baby John recognized and "knew" the Holy Spirit at six months. It wasn’t a blob of tissue that jumped for joy—-it was a baby!
Mary Visits Elizabeth "39 Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, 40 and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. 41 And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. 42 Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, 'Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! 43 But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. 45 Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.'"
David declares God as the creator: Psalms 139:13 “For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb. 14 I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well.”
In 1 Peter 2:16, we are told, “Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a coverup for evil; live as servants of God.”
The Lord is not silent, He is making ready the day of His return. The cries of all these little babies has been heard and their Deliverer is coming soon— He is the Awesome and Almighty God of All--The King of Kings and Lord of Lords and mighty and terrible will be that day!
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Bear Parfait
The day before Christopher was to come home, Kathleen decided to bake her famous "Bear Cake". The last time she made it for Christopher, they took it to the picnic after VBS that year, and all the kids LOVED it. She gets everything set up. Then, with her Karaoke songs blaring off her i-pod and microphone in hand, she sang her songs and put together her cake. I walked through the kitchen a little later and look over to see her scooping liquid out of the cake mix. There sat the new bottle of oil she just purchased and it was half empty. With microphone still in hand, and not missing any notes, she retrieves what excess oil she could and continues on with her singing and baking. Much later, I was outside and opened the door to come in and the house is filled with the smell of smoke. I yell for Kathleen that she must have forgot her cake. No one is answering. I run to the oven and am surprised that the timer still has 14 minutes on it. I open the door to see what is going on. The cake mold was sitting on a cookie sheet and the cake was baking, but out of the top of the mold cake mix was erupting and falling onto the cookie sheet AND the bottom of the oven. The mix that spilled on the oven floor was black and smoldering, accounting for the smoke. When the timer finally went off, Kat took out the cake and after it cooled the appropriate amount of time, she started to take off the molds. She had forgotten to grease the molds! So there was the cutest bear cake...stuck in the pan. Kat ended up scooping it out and putting it into a cassarole dish. We will have it as a parfait, with whipped cream and strawberries.
Yesterday afternoon, I called Mom and gave her an hour and a half to get ready, she was going North with me. She had been after me to take her up, so here was the opportunity. I was going to take Ginger's car back to her, pick up my pick-up and get back home before the snow came. An hour and a half, of course, was ample time for her to put together cookie packages for everyone up there. So we stopped at each house and managed to catch everyone, so they could have "Grandma's cookies".
Then she wanted to see Jayce, her greatgrandson. It was an hour til his bedtime, so we hurried over so she could get a chance to hold him. He came to the door with his mother, Kace, and took one look at Mom and started crying, burying his head in his Kace's shoulder. Then I walked in behind Mom and he took one look at me and started wailing again. We came in the house so that we could shut the door. Then things got worse for the little tyke as Mom went on one side of Kace, and I on the other, and we started making little faces and odd noises for the baby. He was really terrorized now. His Dad came in and got him, and tried to get him to be social with us, but to no avail. Finally he took one of the nilla wafers that Grandma brought him, and he ate it, but wasn't going to be bought off by it. We still had to keep our distance! With a snow storm closing in on us, we couldn't stay to make peace, so we had a short visit with the family and left.
Off to Ginger and Pete's. I thought it was Ginger's birthday, so I brought up the cassarole dish along with some whipped cream and strawberries. Ginger - the "Martha Stewart" of the family, took the lid off the cassarole dish. Although, I think I had started to tell her the story, I hadn't quite warned her about what was inside, so you can imagine her surprise when the dish was full of cake crumbs!! I thought it was quite good, even though a little extra moist from all the oil.
We made it back home before the snow came. This morning the wind was howling and the snow was here. After the cats and dogs were fed, they hunkered down and are waiting for sunshine. So am I!
Friday, October 23, 2009
"Monkeying" Around
This morning Kathleen and Christopher baked and frosted a "Monkey Cake" and I suppose the little ones are "Moneyshine Cakes"! (We had the Monkey cake and celebrated Bill's birthday.)
It is in the 50's outside but the wind has a little bite to it. Good day to bake!
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Precious Child
I realize that the little stories on the kids leave out the most precious moments. The hugs and kisses you get. The times they snuggle up to just spend time with you. The little acts of kindness where they give each other hugs when one gets hurt, or makes special cards or letters or art for each other. The giving or sharing of toys or clothes or food so that the other may have.
And just so precious is their moms and dads. How blessed is the mother and father who puts their family first and give their family a true home. That teach their children to love. That teach their children to respect, honor and love their God. 1Corinthians 13 gives us a measure of just how important love is. Perhaps one of the most difficult mountains in life is the addictions that are constantly enticing each and every one of us. That one could spend all energies and time pursuing empty desires. How many people have been trapped and looked back and realized that right under their nose, they lost the most precious gift they had? Satan is deceptive, keep up your guard.
1 Corinthians 13 1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. 2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned,[a] but have not love, it profits me nothing.
4 Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; 5 does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; 6 does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
8 Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. 9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part. 10 But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away.
11 When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things. 12 For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known.
13 And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.
And just so precious is their moms and dads. How blessed is the mother and father who puts their family first and give their family a true home. That teach their children to love. That teach their children to respect, honor and love their God. 1Corinthians 13 gives us a measure of just how important love is. Perhaps one of the most difficult mountains in life is the addictions that are constantly enticing each and every one of us. That one could spend all energies and time pursuing empty desires. How many people have been trapped and looked back and realized that right under their nose, they lost the most precious gift they had? Satan is deceptive, keep up your guard.
1 Corinthians 13 1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. 2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned,[a] but have not love, it profits me nothing.
4 Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; 5 does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; 6 does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
8 Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. 9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part. 10 But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away.
11 When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things. 12 For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known.
13 And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Grandkids - Part II
More on the grandbabies…Timmy, age 2, Serena, age 5, Madison, age 10:
We had barbecue pork, rice and pineapple for supper one night. Don't ever get pineapple juice on Serena's rice!! ...ohhhhhh it was a long supper. But, then Ice cream for dessert.
***
For stories, Timmy and Serena got the 10 plagues. Serena already knew what a plague was. They both gave their ideas of what they would do with the pharoh who was so mean. Mostly Timmy mirrored Serena's ideas, but was much more vocal. Then we had the book "If you Take a Mouse to the Movies" and I forgot the third book.
Timmy is very active tonight. I was busy so Timmy ended up dealing with Victoria, too. I went in a couple of times to tell him to get his head on his pillow and face the wall. He already asked for a drink and a toy...chosing his big luggage bag of cars--which we wouldn't let in his bed. Now to get him to sleep.
I was folding clothes and Serena was listening to her CD Bible Stories and suddenly you hear Serena say something about telling Grandma. Next thing I heard was shrieks of "N-O-O-O-O N-O-O-O!" from Timmy.
I jumped up and ran to the bedroom, Victoria got there first. He was already in trouble. I think he threw his car at Serena. Now, off went the light, with the door almost totally closed. You hear wailings between the cries of "dark" "can't see" and then quiet. All is well they are asleep.
****
We had roast, mashed potatoes and peas for supper. Madison gave everyone a candy kiss for dessert. It was put on the table by their plate, for when they were finished with supper. Timmy took so long he forgot about his. I sent Serena outside since she was so hyper and then Timmy wanted to go play in the dark, too. As I was cleaning up I went to the other side of the table and there scattered all over the floor were peas. I thought it was fitting that he didn't get his candy kiss.
****
The kids report that there is a half moon out there. It is still nice out at 8:30...but now, to the tub. I left them soaking with "write on the wall" soap crayons. I was just down the hall loading the dishwasher. The next thing I heard was a big crash and splash. I get in there and Timmy had fallen and bumped his head and is crying. I asked if he had stood up and Serena said yes. Apparently he tried to do some body art. So....point maybe learned...no standing in the tub. Bedtime stories...Mad Mattie, Going to the Dentist and the Special kid (wheelchair). Prayers. Then up for a drink. Soon asleep
*****
This afternoon the kids had the bubble machine outside. Very nice weather in the upper 70's and no wind. Set the bubbler on the table and turned it on. It was so funny to see the kids trying to catch & pop and catch and eat the bubbles. Funnier yet was the dog. He was jumping and going wild trying to eat the bubbles in the air. He ought have a tummy ache tonight!
Kids played outside all pm. They came in and was playing in the sleepover tent for awhile, but I put on NCIS and when I sat down to watch it I couldn't hear a thing so chased them out. Timmy was very wild this afternoon. They were running up and down the slide and all over the back yard. I let them go...they had boundless energy. They play right outside the sliding door in the livingroom.
*****
After their bath the kids listened to the Buzzy Bee CD twice. (Another story on manners.) They had the story of Elijah and the fire, where Elijah and the prophets of Baal went up on a mountain to have a showdown of their “god” and the living God. Baal's prophets made an altar and put on it wood and a sacrifice. All the priests of Baal prayed, danced and tried to get their “god” to send fire to burn the sacrifice. After much time it proved a dismal failure and then Elijah set up an altar with a sacrifice and wood and then built a trench around it. He watered the sacrifice and the wood and filled the trench with water --and then watered it all again. At the time of sacrifice he called on God of Heaven to let the people know that He was God and to turn the people's hearts back to Him. Fire came from Heaven and not only burned up the sacrifice, but the wood, the stones of the altar, the dust and the water. The people then fell on their faces and the prophets of Baal were executed. (I didn't add that last part of the execution to their story.)
They also had the story of Saul, a persecutor of the Christians. He was blinded by the brightness and glory of the Lord. He was then sent to Ananias to see again. He became the Apostle Paul. A prophet whose teachings went out to all the world. They also had the story of "I'm Sorry". This is about the little critter who had a very bad day and was sorry for every clumsy thing he did. In the end his mom tells him just being sorry isn't good enough. The little critter says to the readers that he must be careful too.
There was one more Bible book but I forgot which one. Serena put on Buzzy Bee CD and, with the little light, listened to the story again after prayers.
*****
Overheard little Timmy open his flip phone and talk to Dad today. 'Hi Daddy...." After he closed it up he came to the computer in the dining room, where I was, and said "Daddy is coming home."
*****
Timmy has been consistently more demanding in wanting stuff lately. We went to watch swim practice early as the kids wanted to see Madison. It is cold, I had stopped by the house to get their coats. So, we walked in the bleacher section and there are not too many people. We sat about half way down, 2nd row up, so that we could see Madison from beginning to end. Serena spotted her and we watch her shivering and waiting her turn to swim.
Timmy sat and then started to go to the top of the bleachers. I told him to come back. He would but then leave again. Timmy went all the way to the top and Serena wanted to go to. Told her "no" that Timmy would then move on to something else and we are not going to play tag. He went down in front and Serena wanted to too. “No” to Serena and told Timmy to come back as he was not to block the view of the mother in front of us on the first row.
He returned and then left and went the top. This time I took Serena and we went up there and sat, too. Then he took off. I told him if he didn't sit we would leave. He decided he would go elsewhere. So I went after him and picked him up.
He screamed a bloodcurtling scream at the top of his lungs and kicked and screamed all the way to the car. I almost couldn't carry him. Then he continued on after we got in the car and I got him latched in. Then, I texted as he was kicking and screaming. Finally he quieted down to where he quit kicking and screaming and was now crying because he had to leave. Yep....tantrum. This is the only one he pulled on me the whole time.
****
This afternoon Serena and Tim were in their room. They were to pick it up and clean it up. Now, I give Serena credit, she did a pretty good job, with just a little bit left to pick up--although it took two hours of pokeyness to do it. Timmy was in and out and maybe put a couple of things in the basket. Finally I took Serena to her practice and Victoria took Timmy in and helped him finish. Ahhhhh what a way to spend the AFTERNOON!!! Neither fell asleep at nap time either.
*****
I downloaded some Bill Haley and Elvis music today and Madison walked in the kitchen as I was playing it. She stops and listens and then looks at me and asks me "what kind of music is that?" ..... Can you believe that there is someone that has never heard Rock N Roll - Classic.... I told her it was rock and roll. That it was Bill Haley, the one who started rock and roll. She kinda stopped, listened and then left...so I have no idea what her thoughts were on that.
*****
This morning Shelly came and got Victoria and they went to the get a pedicure...Shelly's treat to Victoria for her birthday. After she got her feet all beautiful, Victoria came home and then took Madison and they went and tromped through the mud and manure at MaryBeth's ranch to see the baby horse. Madison's adventure was that she caught a chicken.
****
The kids played outside quite a bit of the time yesterday. It is amazing the energy they have to pick up and move everything to create their playtime scenerios. The grass was cold and still wet. Serena has fallen somewhere and put a small gash (cut) in her leg.
This morning she cries getting out of bed because her foot hurts, her feet are cold and she is tired. Huimin gives her Motrin. She is still hurting (?) and crying and drags herself through getting ready. The bus is here and still her hair is not done and no shoes or socks. Huimin yells at her to get going....she gets socks and sits in front of drawer with shoes and ...puts...on...shoes. Sticks her arms in sweater and arms up with her back pack and out the door she goes still crying. Madison had come back to tell her to hurry the bus can't wait. She gets to the street and just trudges slowly down the street, still crying. Finally I don't see her any more but I hear the kids on the bus encouraging her and yelling "run...run...hurry....run" to her. Finally I hear the bus take off. Must get a gift certificate for that bus driver when the year ends. She is ok when she gets home at noon!
****
The day started off good. Madison got up before the alarm rang and was busy getting herself ready for school. Serena got up with a smile. They were both ready 5 minutes before the bus got here. Such little things that could make or break the day for the bus driver!
Time for me to get a few more winks of sleep. I eagerly jumped between the covers and snuggled down into the soft pillow. I remember hearing Victoria when she left. THEN I heard the creaking of a door and I listened. Now the patter-patter of little feet. "Grandma..get up" a little voice found me. ok...breakfast.
****
Serena reads the book on Alfie wanting a cookie. She did real good at pronouncing the words out. Just needed help with a few. But, now, Timmy decided he, too, wanted a cookie, so we all went and had cookies and milk. We then read the story of Timothy and talked about scrolls. Timothy had gotten a scroll that the Apostle Paul had written a letter to him on. The kids had made scrolls a few months ago and Serena had learn about some type of scrolls the indians used to draw pictures of what the animals did. We also read one of Timmy's favorite, the "I Forgot" book. They thought it was funny that I forgot that I had told him earlier that I would read it to them. Prayers.
*****
I was at the computer and heard a noise. I asked Timmy what he was doing as he had come in from the back yard, and ran down the hallway. Nick yelled back that Timmy was in his room. I thought that that was strange, why didn’t he just tell him to leave??? I start to head down the hall and Timmy yells something at me. Then he comes out of Nick's bedroom carrying the green basketball. So I send him back outside.
A little later Nick comes down the hall and into the kitchen...Timmy had been in the bedroom to get the ball back because he threw the ball through the window, knocking out the screen. Yep, I have seen him throw balls. He gives them a heave and you never know which way they are going to go!!
We had barbecue pork, rice and pineapple for supper one night. Don't ever get pineapple juice on Serena's rice!! ...ohhhhhh it was a long supper. But, then Ice cream for dessert.
***
For stories, Timmy and Serena got the 10 plagues. Serena already knew what a plague was. They both gave their ideas of what they would do with the pharoh who was so mean. Mostly Timmy mirrored Serena's ideas, but was much more vocal. Then we had the book "If you Take a Mouse to the Movies" and I forgot the third book.
Timmy is very active tonight. I was busy so Timmy ended up dealing with Victoria, too. I went in a couple of times to tell him to get his head on his pillow and face the wall. He already asked for a drink and a toy...chosing his big luggage bag of cars--which we wouldn't let in his bed. Now to get him to sleep.
I was folding clothes and Serena was listening to her CD Bible Stories and suddenly you hear Serena say something about telling Grandma. Next thing I heard was shrieks of "N-O-O-O-O N-O-O-O!" from Timmy.
I jumped up and ran to the bedroom, Victoria got there first. He was already in trouble. I think he threw his car at Serena. Now, off went the light, with the door almost totally closed. You hear wailings between the cries of "dark" "can't see" and then quiet. All is well they are asleep.
****
We had roast, mashed potatoes and peas for supper. Madison gave everyone a candy kiss for dessert. It was put on the table by their plate, for when they were finished with supper. Timmy took so long he forgot about his. I sent Serena outside since she was so hyper and then Timmy wanted to go play in the dark, too. As I was cleaning up I went to the other side of the table and there scattered all over the floor were peas. I thought it was fitting that he didn't get his candy kiss.
****
The kids report that there is a half moon out there. It is still nice out at 8:30...but now, to the tub. I left them soaking with "write on the wall" soap crayons. I was just down the hall loading the dishwasher. The next thing I heard was a big crash and splash. I get in there and Timmy had fallen and bumped his head and is crying. I asked if he had stood up and Serena said yes. Apparently he tried to do some body art. So....point maybe learned...no standing in the tub. Bedtime stories...Mad Mattie, Going to the Dentist and the Special kid (wheelchair). Prayers. Then up for a drink. Soon asleep
*****
This afternoon the kids had the bubble machine outside. Very nice weather in the upper 70's and no wind. Set the bubbler on the table and turned it on. It was so funny to see the kids trying to catch & pop and catch and eat the bubbles. Funnier yet was the dog. He was jumping and going wild trying to eat the bubbles in the air. He ought have a tummy ache tonight!
Kids played outside all pm. They came in and was playing in the sleepover tent for awhile, but I put on NCIS and when I sat down to watch it I couldn't hear a thing so chased them out. Timmy was very wild this afternoon. They were running up and down the slide and all over the back yard. I let them go...they had boundless energy. They play right outside the sliding door in the livingroom.
*****
After their bath the kids listened to the Buzzy Bee CD twice. (Another story on manners.) They had the story of Elijah and the fire, where Elijah and the prophets of Baal went up on a mountain to have a showdown of their “god” and the living God. Baal's prophets made an altar and put on it wood and a sacrifice. All the priests of Baal prayed, danced and tried to get their “god” to send fire to burn the sacrifice. After much time it proved a dismal failure and then Elijah set up an altar with a sacrifice and wood and then built a trench around it. He watered the sacrifice and the wood and filled the trench with water --and then watered it all again. At the time of sacrifice he called on God of Heaven to let the people know that He was God and to turn the people's hearts back to Him. Fire came from Heaven and not only burned up the sacrifice, but the wood, the stones of the altar, the dust and the water. The people then fell on their faces and the prophets of Baal were executed. (I didn't add that last part of the execution to their story.)
They also had the story of Saul, a persecutor of the Christians. He was blinded by the brightness and glory of the Lord. He was then sent to Ananias to see again. He became the Apostle Paul. A prophet whose teachings went out to all the world. They also had the story of "I'm Sorry". This is about the little critter who had a very bad day and was sorry for every clumsy thing he did. In the end his mom tells him just being sorry isn't good enough. The little critter says to the readers that he must be careful too.
There was one more Bible book but I forgot which one. Serena put on Buzzy Bee CD and, with the little light, listened to the story again after prayers.
*****
Overheard little Timmy open his flip phone and talk to Dad today. 'Hi Daddy...." After he closed it up he came to the computer in the dining room, where I was, and said "Daddy is coming home."
*****
Timmy has been consistently more demanding in wanting stuff lately. We went to watch swim practice early as the kids wanted to see Madison. It is cold, I had stopped by the house to get their coats. So, we walked in the bleacher section and there are not too many people. We sat about half way down, 2nd row up, so that we could see Madison from beginning to end. Serena spotted her and we watch her shivering and waiting her turn to swim.
Timmy sat and then started to go to the top of the bleachers. I told him to come back. He would but then leave again. Timmy went all the way to the top and Serena wanted to go to. Told her "no" that Timmy would then move on to something else and we are not going to play tag. He went down in front and Serena wanted to too. “No” to Serena and told Timmy to come back as he was not to block the view of the mother in front of us on the first row.
He returned and then left and went the top. This time I took Serena and we went up there and sat, too. Then he took off. I told him if he didn't sit we would leave. He decided he would go elsewhere. So I went after him and picked him up.
He screamed a bloodcurtling scream at the top of his lungs and kicked and screamed all the way to the car. I almost couldn't carry him. Then he continued on after we got in the car and I got him latched in. Then, I texted as he was kicking and screaming. Finally he quieted down to where he quit kicking and screaming and was now crying because he had to leave. Yep....tantrum. This is the only one he pulled on me the whole time.
****
This afternoon Serena and Tim were in their room. They were to pick it up and clean it up. Now, I give Serena credit, she did a pretty good job, with just a little bit left to pick up--although it took two hours of pokeyness to do it. Timmy was in and out and maybe put a couple of things in the basket. Finally I took Serena to her practice and Victoria took Timmy in and helped him finish. Ahhhhh what a way to spend the AFTERNOON!!! Neither fell asleep at nap time either.
*****
I downloaded some Bill Haley and Elvis music today and Madison walked in the kitchen as I was playing it. She stops and listens and then looks at me and asks me "what kind of music is that?" ..... Can you believe that there is someone that has never heard Rock N Roll - Classic.... I told her it was rock and roll. That it was Bill Haley, the one who started rock and roll. She kinda stopped, listened and then left...so I have no idea what her thoughts were on that.
*****
This morning Shelly came and got Victoria and they went to the get a pedicure...Shelly's treat to Victoria for her birthday. After she got her feet all beautiful, Victoria came home and then took Madison and they went and tromped through the mud and manure at MaryBeth's ranch to see the baby horse. Madison's adventure was that she caught a chicken.
****
The kids played outside quite a bit of the time yesterday. It is amazing the energy they have to pick up and move everything to create their playtime scenerios. The grass was cold and still wet. Serena has fallen somewhere and put a small gash (cut) in her leg.
This morning she cries getting out of bed because her foot hurts, her feet are cold and she is tired. Huimin gives her Motrin. She is still hurting (?) and crying and drags herself through getting ready. The bus is here and still her hair is not done and no shoes or socks. Huimin yells at her to get going....she gets socks and sits in front of drawer with shoes and ...puts...on...shoes. Sticks her arms in sweater and arms up with her back pack and out the door she goes still crying. Madison had come back to tell her to hurry the bus can't wait. She gets to the street and just trudges slowly down the street, still crying. Finally I don't see her any more but I hear the kids on the bus encouraging her and yelling "run...run...hurry....run" to her. Finally I hear the bus take off. Must get a gift certificate for that bus driver when the year ends. She is ok when she gets home at noon!
****
The day started off good. Madison got up before the alarm rang and was busy getting herself ready for school. Serena got up with a smile. They were both ready 5 minutes before the bus got here. Such little things that could make or break the day for the bus driver!
Time for me to get a few more winks of sleep. I eagerly jumped between the covers and snuggled down into the soft pillow. I remember hearing Victoria when she left. THEN I heard the creaking of a door and I listened. Now the patter-patter of little feet. "Grandma..get up" a little voice found me. ok...breakfast.
****
Serena reads the book on Alfie wanting a cookie. She did real good at pronouncing the words out. Just needed help with a few. But, now, Timmy decided he, too, wanted a cookie, so we all went and had cookies and milk. We then read the story of Timothy and talked about scrolls. Timothy had gotten a scroll that the Apostle Paul had written a letter to him on. The kids had made scrolls a few months ago and Serena had learn about some type of scrolls the indians used to draw pictures of what the animals did. We also read one of Timmy's favorite, the "I Forgot" book. They thought it was funny that I forgot that I had told him earlier that I would read it to them. Prayers.
*****
I was at the computer and heard a noise. I asked Timmy what he was doing as he had come in from the back yard, and ran down the hallway. Nick yelled back that Timmy was in his room. I thought that that was strange, why didn’t he just tell him to leave??? I start to head down the hall and Timmy yells something at me. Then he comes out of Nick's bedroom carrying the green basketball. So I send him back outside.
A little later Nick comes down the hall and into the kitchen...Timmy had been in the bedroom to get the ball back because he threw the ball through the window, knocking out the screen. Yep, I have seen him throw balls. He gives them a heave and you never know which way they are going to go!!
Grandkids - Part 1
The following are little stories on my adorable two-going-on-three year-old grandson and my precious five year-old granddaughter:
Precious moment today: Serena and I went out and cleaned up dog poo. I raked and Serena held the shovel and put it into a sack in the bucket. She then went in the house and washed. After which, I washed and came into the dining room and sat down.
Serena is sitting on a step stool and catching the apples that Victoria is peeling and slicing, and putting them in a sack. I told Victoria that Serena just helped me clean up dog poo. Such a good reaction from Victoria! -- She stopped in midair, eye brows lifted and demanded to know of Serena whether she had washed her hands. (good chuckle)
****
Timmy sat up to the table today to have his cereal. He was looking at the Capt Crunch box and saying “Hat...hat"
I look at the box and said "Cpt Crunch’s hat“.
Timmy says "Daddy's hat".
****
Today Timmy went to Rite Aide with me and while I was looking at Valentine cards he decided to go through the toy section. I told him no toys...he can't put away what he already has. So he was unhappy. I told him to just come over and stay with me. So he came over and decided to push the cart backwards and I told him to bring it back (my purse is in it). So he did.
He messed around doing something and I looked in time to see him and the cart both going down and the cart is on top. Luckily it is one of those little carts. So he cried. Joe came over to check him out and he wanted to give Timmy ice cream. The ice cream was so hard they could hardly scoop it out of the containers. Well that ended the crying as he got a little dish of black cherry ice cream. Timmy tried to get it out of the dish with a little spoon and a chunk he broke loose flew out of the dish and plopped on the floor. So, since we had to get a napkin earlier for his sniffles, we now got the napkin out of his pocket and cleaned up the ice cream. I now got smart and cut his ice cream in chunks for him and it lasted til we did check out with Victoria.
So...off to the Post Office. We got in and were next in line. (whew) So we got the business taken care of and it is time to leave. Timmy runs up to the inside door and puts his hand on the jamb, reaches up and grabs the door handle pulling the door closed on his fingers.(Ouch) He cries. We go outside, his fingers are now fine. I laughed at him for sticking his fingers in the door while pulling on it. He is indignant and told me I was not to laugh. Finally, without any more incidents we got home.
*******
I was walking into the living room and walked in on Timmy picking up his little musical flip phone. He opens it up and sticks it on his ear and begins to talk, “Hi daddy....and on and on.“
He saw me and he told me to go--that he was talking to his daddy.
*******
Timmy got into my purse while I was at guard drill (I left it on the bed) and took all the change in my side pocket. His pocket now jingles cuz he has money. I didn't know it til he came in, while I was on the computer, and went over and started putting his hands in the side pocket, saying something about money. I said “Grandma's money” and he said “Timmy and Grandma's money”...hmmmmm
******
Tonight's story was a Winnie the Poo book on "fibs." Serena's story came from her daily devotion and was on "consequences." She picked it out and it really worked in well.
She is so good at learning. Timmy is intrigued with Winnie the Pooh and the honey jar. He listens pretty good but keeps interrupting to point out what is catching his interest in the pictures. We are reading the Jesus books before their naps, so only one or two books at night or maybe none.
Serena plays her Bible CD. Earlier, when we were reading one of the Jesus books, she exclaimed that the story wasn't in her Bible. So it then kinda dawned on me that she wasn't realizing that the CD was only some stories from the Bible She thought the whole Bible was on that CD. I told her that on Wednesday, we would go back to the Family Christian Store and find a new CD so they can have alternate stories.
******
Today Victoria and I were heading down to Office Max and we were discussing where it was. Victoria said it was “just beside Chucky Cheese” and then quickly gulped and exclaimed...“Oh-oh, I just said the "c" word!"
I kinda looked at her and then I heard it...a little voice from the back.."Chuck Cheese!?" Then there was no stopping him...he wanted to go to "Chuck Cheese."
Victoria told him he could waive at it when we went by...so then, as we went by it, we waived. Victoria dropped me off in front of the Office Max and I went in to find my envelopes. I took a while as I searched all over for some cheap ones. When I finally came back out she said that he had argued with her the whole time cuz he wanted to go to "Chuck Cheese." Then he very boldly and loudly told her he was mad at her and kept repeating it as we headed home. I told him he was not to be mad at anyone and he was then "mad at you Gramma.” By the time we got home he was ok
******
Today was a bit trying. It was the first day of spring and Friday. A double whammy...the kids were wild.
They came out in the yard, when Serena came home, and were playing, while I started pulling weeds. The neighbor was mowing so I couldn't hear them. I looked up and Serena was hitting Timmy, pulling his shirt and then began dragging him off. She was going to lock him in the dog pen. I got there before she could. She said Timmy hit her first. I sent them both to bed—definitely nap time.
*****
Timmy has taken his little Fisher Price trike into the house. He can't get it to drive on the paving blocks in the back and he is not allowed in the front without anyone there. We weren't going to let him drive it in the house, but what the heck. He is not causing any harm.
Tonight he came out of bed and wanted a toy to take to bed. I told him ONE toy. Serena, shortly afterwards, came running out to tell me Timmy was taking his trike to bed! He ended up with no toys.
******
Serena, Timmy and I went to the Family Christian Store for a CD and story book for Serena. Before entering, I told the kids they were to get nothing when we went in. They both made a beeline for the kid section. Timmy found a display of cars (Yes, Jesus cars!) and wanted a car. Well...49 cents, so I said ok.
Now Serena wants something. so I told her it had to be out of the bin for 49 cents. So I move on to look down the isles for the CD. Here comes Serena, she has two crosses and wanted to know if she could have two. I remembered that the last time we FORGOT to get something for Madison, so I said yes. She could give one to Madison. Of course Timmy was right behind her and he then disappeared. Here he comes back with three cars. I told him to put two back and he says "Madison, Neena." So we ended up with three cars and three crosses, two books for Huimin, and a present for Joe; but not what I went for to begin with.
I had forgotten I had gotten her Bible CD at Barnes and Nobles. So we went to Barnes and Nobles. I told the kids we had to run right in and right out cuz we had to meet Victoria for her lunch. So we all head to the back of the store...Serena remembers where the section is and proceeds at a fast clip...Timmy is dawdling, looking around and stopping. Finally we get to the section and the one CD we do have is the only religious story CD they now have in stock. I scoured the small section to make sure. That gave Serena just enough time to find a box of Easter egg shaped sidewalk chalk for $2.99. She wanted it...I said no.
She asked if I still had money. I said yes...but not to waste on stuff like that. So she went on about me having money and I could just get it--it wasn't very much. I asked her if she just wanted me to give her my money. Of course she said “yes” and there was Timmy coming up from behind, he "likes money" and wants money too. Well we made it out without spending a nickel although they were sure that chalk was a good deal all the way to the car.
******
We read bedtime stories after Huimin left. Pigs that Fly was a good book and we read about Paul and Silas in jail. Then Timmy had me read PAT. Pat is something like the Farmer in the Dell, except it was Pat making a pizza, and I have no idea why he likes that book.
Then we read Serena's book about devotions. The topic was possessiveness. I had her pronounce out the word "m-i-n-e“ out of the book. Afterwards Timmy grabbed Serena's cross and they fought over it and she said it was "mine". So, good talking point there.
Then Timmy said something was "mine." I forgot what it was he had. Serena now took the opportunity to lecture HIM on "being selfish."
******
Story time. We read about Gideon defeating the Mideonites by the power of God. Their books leave out quite a bit, but even though, the kids still are good at listening to the books. Serena likes the rhyming of the books. Then we read of David and Goliath. (Timmy keeps bouncing up to find his dog.) Then we read the 3 pigs -shortened version where the wolf didn't eat the first two pigs. THEN we had to read Pat. Serena brought out her devotion book and chose "consequences." She is a good little learner.
Well, time for bed. Only took two trips with threats tonight. Second time I just turned off the night light, which always brings a big howl from Timmy. But he seems to go right to sleep after he has spent a little time hollering that he can't see.
*******
Today Timmy was preoccupied with someone's little box of chocolate valentine candies that was in the fridge. He got it out and brought it to me saying that he liked it. So, I asked him if he was a thief? That he should put it back, as it was not his. Well, that didn't end it. He later asked again.
Then, I was in the living room and I heard Timmy open the fridge door and I yelled at him to close it. I listened but did not hear the door shut. So....I walked into the kitchen and --no Timmy. The fridge door was ajar and I at first thought that he had run when he heard me coming and not shut the door. Then I noticed a couple of shoes poking out the bottom of the fridge door. I opened the door and sure enough there was Timmy, he had tried to hide himself in the fridge!!!!
*******
Here in California it is sunny and warm today. About noon I was making lunch and I walked into the living room to check on Timmy, who was outside. As I approached the sliding door, I looked out and there he was swinging and he had his little red musical flip phone on his ear. Getting closer I could hear him, "Thank you Daddy. I wuv you Daddy....."
I backed up, without him seeing me, and went and got Huimin. She walked to the sliding door and listened and he was again saying "Thank you, Daddy..."
I walked back to work on lunch. I heard the sliding door open and Timmy make an exclamation and then said "Mommy,"
Huimin started talking to him, and didn't hear it all, but I did hear her get on the phone and tell Daddy what a “good boy” Timmy was.
Precious moment today: Serena and I went out and cleaned up dog poo. I raked and Serena held the shovel and put it into a sack in the bucket. She then went in the house and washed. After which, I washed and came into the dining room and sat down.
Serena is sitting on a step stool and catching the apples that Victoria is peeling and slicing, and putting them in a sack. I told Victoria that Serena just helped me clean up dog poo. Such a good reaction from Victoria! -- She stopped in midair, eye brows lifted and demanded to know of Serena whether she had washed her hands. (good chuckle)
****
Timmy sat up to the table today to have his cereal. He was looking at the Capt Crunch box and saying “Hat...hat"
I look at the box and said "Cpt Crunch’s hat“.
Timmy says "Daddy's hat".
****
Today Timmy went to Rite Aide with me and while I was looking at Valentine cards he decided to go through the toy section. I told him no toys...he can't put away what he already has. So he was unhappy. I told him to just come over and stay with me. So he came over and decided to push the cart backwards and I told him to bring it back (my purse is in it). So he did.
He messed around doing something and I looked in time to see him and the cart both going down and the cart is on top. Luckily it is one of those little carts. So he cried. Joe came over to check him out and he wanted to give Timmy ice cream. The ice cream was so hard they could hardly scoop it out of the containers. Well that ended the crying as he got a little dish of black cherry ice cream. Timmy tried to get it out of the dish with a little spoon and a chunk he broke loose flew out of the dish and plopped on the floor. So, since we had to get a napkin earlier for his sniffles, we now got the napkin out of his pocket and cleaned up the ice cream. I now got smart and cut his ice cream in chunks for him and it lasted til we did check out with Victoria.
So...off to the Post Office. We got in and were next in line. (whew) So we got the business taken care of and it is time to leave. Timmy runs up to the inside door and puts his hand on the jamb, reaches up and grabs the door handle pulling the door closed on his fingers.(Ouch) He cries. We go outside, his fingers are now fine. I laughed at him for sticking his fingers in the door while pulling on it. He is indignant and told me I was not to laugh. Finally, without any more incidents we got home.
*******
I was walking into the living room and walked in on Timmy picking up his little musical flip phone. He opens it up and sticks it on his ear and begins to talk, “Hi daddy....and on and on.“
He saw me and he told me to go--that he was talking to his daddy.
*******
Timmy got into my purse while I was at guard drill (I left it on the bed) and took all the change in my side pocket. His pocket now jingles cuz he has money. I didn't know it til he came in, while I was on the computer, and went over and started putting his hands in the side pocket, saying something about money. I said “Grandma's money” and he said “Timmy and Grandma's money”...hmmmmm
******
Tonight's story was a Winnie the Poo book on "fibs." Serena's story came from her daily devotion and was on "consequences." She picked it out and it really worked in well.
She is so good at learning. Timmy is intrigued with Winnie the Pooh and the honey jar. He listens pretty good but keeps interrupting to point out what is catching his interest in the pictures. We are reading the Jesus books before their naps, so only one or two books at night or maybe none.
Serena plays her Bible CD. Earlier, when we were reading one of the Jesus books, she exclaimed that the story wasn't in her Bible. So it then kinda dawned on me that she wasn't realizing that the CD was only some stories from the Bible She thought the whole Bible was on that CD. I told her that on Wednesday, we would go back to the Family Christian Store and find a new CD so they can have alternate stories.
******
Today Victoria and I were heading down to Office Max and we were discussing where it was. Victoria said it was “just beside Chucky Cheese” and then quickly gulped and exclaimed...“Oh-oh, I just said the "c" word!"
I kinda looked at her and then I heard it...a little voice from the back.."Chuck Cheese!?" Then there was no stopping him...he wanted to go to "Chuck Cheese."
Victoria told him he could waive at it when we went by...so then, as we went by it, we waived. Victoria dropped me off in front of the Office Max and I went in to find my envelopes. I took a while as I searched all over for some cheap ones. When I finally came back out she said that he had argued with her the whole time cuz he wanted to go to "Chuck Cheese." Then he very boldly and loudly told her he was mad at her and kept repeating it as we headed home. I told him he was not to be mad at anyone and he was then "mad at you Gramma.” By the time we got home he was ok
******
Today was a bit trying. It was the first day of spring and Friday. A double whammy...the kids were wild.
They came out in the yard, when Serena came home, and were playing, while I started pulling weeds. The neighbor was mowing so I couldn't hear them. I looked up and Serena was hitting Timmy, pulling his shirt and then began dragging him off. She was going to lock him in the dog pen. I got there before she could. She said Timmy hit her first. I sent them both to bed—definitely nap time.
*****
Timmy has taken his little Fisher Price trike into the house. He can't get it to drive on the paving blocks in the back and he is not allowed in the front without anyone there. We weren't going to let him drive it in the house, but what the heck. He is not causing any harm.
Tonight he came out of bed and wanted a toy to take to bed. I told him ONE toy. Serena, shortly afterwards, came running out to tell me Timmy was taking his trike to bed! He ended up with no toys.
******
Serena, Timmy and I went to the Family Christian Store for a CD and story book for Serena. Before entering, I told the kids they were to get nothing when we went in. They both made a beeline for the kid section. Timmy found a display of cars (Yes, Jesus cars!) and wanted a car. Well...49 cents, so I said ok.
Now Serena wants something. so I told her it had to be out of the bin for 49 cents. So I move on to look down the isles for the CD. Here comes Serena, she has two crosses and wanted to know if she could have two. I remembered that the last time we FORGOT to get something for Madison, so I said yes. She could give one to Madison. Of course Timmy was right behind her and he then disappeared. Here he comes back with three cars. I told him to put two back and he says "Madison, Neena." So we ended up with three cars and three crosses, two books for Huimin, and a present for Joe; but not what I went for to begin with.
I had forgotten I had gotten her Bible CD at Barnes and Nobles. So we went to Barnes and Nobles. I told the kids we had to run right in and right out cuz we had to meet Victoria for her lunch. So we all head to the back of the store...Serena remembers where the section is and proceeds at a fast clip...Timmy is dawdling, looking around and stopping. Finally we get to the section and the one CD we do have is the only religious story CD they now have in stock. I scoured the small section to make sure. That gave Serena just enough time to find a box of Easter egg shaped sidewalk chalk for $2.99. She wanted it...I said no.
She asked if I still had money. I said yes...but not to waste on stuff like that. So she went on about me having money and I could just get it--it wasn't very much. I asked her if she just wanted me to give her my money. Of course she said “yes” and there was Timmy coming up from behind, he "likes money" and wants money too. Well we made it out without spending a nickel although they were sure that chalk was a good deal all the way to the car.
******
We read bedtime stories after Huimin left. Pigs that Fly was a good book and we read about Paul and Silas in jail. Then Timmy had me read PAT. Pat is something like the Farmer in the Dell, except it was Pat making a pizza, and I have no idea why he likes that book.
Then we read Serena's book about devotions. The topic was possessiveness. I had her pronounce out the word "m-i-n-e“ out of the book. Afterwards Timmy grabbed Serena's cross and they fought over it and she said it was "mine". So, good talking point there.
Then Timmy said something was "mine." I forgot what it was he had. Serena now took the opportunity to lecture HIM on "being selfish."
******
Story time. We read about Gideon defeating the Mideonites by the power of God. Their books leave out quite a bit, but even though, the kids still are good at listening to the books. Serena likes the rhyming of the books. Then we read of David and Goliath. (Timmy keeps bouncing up to find his dog.) Then we read the 3 pigs -shortened version where the wolf didn't eat the first two pigs. THEN we had to read Pat. Serena brought out her devotion book and chose "consequences." She is a good little learner.
Well, time for bed. Only took two trips with threats tonight. Second time I just turned off the night light, which always brings a big howl from Timmy. But he seems to go right to sleep after he has spent a little time hollering that he can't see.
*******
Today Timmy was preoccupied with someone's little box of chocolate valentine candies that was in the fridge. He got it out and brought it to me saying that he liked it. So, I asked him if he was a thief? That he should put it back, as it was not his. Well, that didn't end it. He later asked again.
Then, I was in the living room and I heard Timmy open the fridge door and I yelled at him to close it. I listened but did not hear the door shut. So....I walked into the kitchen and --no Timmy. The fridge door was ajar and I at first thought that he had run when he heard me coming and not shut the door. Then I noticed a couple of shoes poking out the bottom of the fridge door. I opened the door and sure enough there was Timmy, he had tried to hide himself in the fridge!!!!
*******
Here in California it is sunny and warm today. About noon I was making lunch and I walked into the living room to check on Timmy, who was outside. As I approached the sliding door, I looked out and there he was swinging and he had his little red musical flip phone on his ear. Getting closer I could hear him, "Thank you Daddy. I wuv you Daddy....."
I backed up, without him seeing me, and went and got Huimin. She walked to the sliding door and listened and he was again saying "Thank you, Daddy..."
I walked back to work on lunch. I heard the sliding door open and Timmy make an exclamation and then said "Mommy,"
Huimin started talking to him, and didn't hear it all, but I did hear her get on the phone and tell Daddy what a “good boy” Timmy was.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
What's to Come?
Saturday evening was so peaceful, not even a breathe of wind out there. It was beautiful. Rain is forecast for the beginning of the week, so this may just be the calm before the storm.
My nephew is heading off soon for basic training as he begins his duty with the Guard. His Mom had the family over for a BBQ so that we could all wish him well.
It was about ten years ago, when I was pulling my LAST days up at the Guard. The Lord had done wonderful things in my life, I could not believe that He could entrust me with such powerful visions and such great love. And for what reason? I have no particular talent and no speaking or leadership skills. But the ways of the Lord are known only to Him.
At this one particular drill (ten years ago) I wanted to go to church service, which they have up there. I went to the room used for worship service and as I was walking down the isle, I saw the Chaplain up front and to the left. He was doing something with an altar, or baptism stand, or something, I don't know now what it was. Suddenly I see the Chaplain standing up front of what looks like a large circle in the air, with something like a clothe door. He is holding this door open. Rays of light are flowing out of the doorway and I could see people seeming to come out of a cloud in front and below the circle and rising up, like on an escalator, or conveyor, into the light.
A voice came from behind and above and blessed the Chaplain. We also have another Pastor up there, so in my mind I said for him to be blessed also. Have you even fell on something so hard it knocked the breathe out of you? That is how I felt. I could hear my voice (although I said it in my mind) --it sounded like a little tiny blip on the ground behind me at my feet. The voice I had heard blessing the Chaplain, although it had not SOUNDED loud when I heard it, had indeed, in comparison, filled what seemed like eternity. Even speakers blasting at their highest sound, would be nothing in comparison to this voice. I was in awe. The magnitude of His voice was a shock and for a moment I was just stunned. Then I realized that what I saw up front was no longer there and the Chaplain was now crossing over to the other side of the area up front, getting ready to preach.
I did write him an e-mail and described what I saw. Although I have no idea whether he read it, or dismissed it And I did describe what happened to one other. Life went on and my family and I left the state. A couple of years later we came back and finally settled into our last family home. I happened to pick up a newletter where the Chaplain, of whom I had the vision, had wrote an article. He was retiring. He also wrote about 9/11. He had been in the Pentagon when the Flt 77 struck it and he immediately went and ministered to the people. I had saved the newsletter, but no longer can find it, or I would quote his exact words.
Another time, before I left up there, I had another vision. This one yet unfulfilled. I was in an office and was discussing an incident with another person. I stood up and was facing the window to the west. There was a sound and at that very moment hail just poured down outside the window. I stared unable to move. It was like a huge sheet of hail coming down in a continuous torrent. I have seen a lot of hail storms, but never like this. Then it stopped. Some kind of crinkling noise fell on us and the air was filled with freshness and renewal and contentment.
We have a mighty and powerful Lord and He is returning soon.
My nephew is heading off soon for basic training as he begins his duty with the Guard. His Mom had the family over for a BBQ so that we could all wish him well.
It was about ten years ago, when I was pulling my LAST days up at the Guard. The Lord had done wonderful things in my life, I could not believe that He could entrust me with such powerful visions and such great love. And for what reason? I have no particular talent and no speaking or leadership skills. But the ways of the Lord are known only to Him.
At this one particular drill (ten years ago) I wanted to go to church service, which they have up there. I went to the room used for worship service and as I was walking down the isle, I saw the Chaplain up front and to the left. He was doing something with an altar, or baptism stand, or something, I don't know now what it was. Suddenly I see the Chaplain standing up front of what looks like a large circle in the air, with something like a clothe door. He is holding this door open. Rays of light are flowing out of the doorway and I could see people seeming to come out of a cloud in front and below the circle and rising up, like on an escalator, or conveyor, into the light.
A voice came from behind and above and blessed the Chaplain. We also have another Pastor up there, so in my mind I said for him to be blessed also. Have you even fell on something so hard it knocked the breathe out of you? That is how I felt. I could hear my voice (although I said it in my mind) --it sounded like a little tiny blip on the ground behind me at my feet. The voice I had heard blessing the Chaplain, although it had not SOUNDED loud when I heard it, had indeed, in comparison, filled what seemed like eternity. Even speakers blasting at their highest sound, would be nothing in comparison to this voice. I was in awe. The magnitude of His voice was a shock and for a moment I was just stunned. Then I realized that what I saw up front was no longer there and the Chaplain was now crossing over to the other side of the area up front, getting ready to preach.
I did write him an e-mail and described what I saw. Although I have no idea whether he read it, or dismissed it And I did describe what happened to one other. Life went on and my family and I left the state. A couple of years later we came back and finally settled into our last family home. I happened to pick up a newletter where the Chaplain, of whom I had the vision, had wrote an article. He was retiring. He also wrote about 9/11. He had been in the Pentagon when the Flt 77 struck it and he immediately went and ministered to the people. I had saved the newsletter, but no longer can find it, or I would quote his exact words.
Another time, before I left up there, I had another vision. This one yet unfulfilled. I was in an office and was discussing an incident with another person. I stood up and was facing the window to the west. There was a sound and at that very moment hail just poured down outside the window. I stared unable to move. It was like a huge sheet of hail coming down in a continuous torrent. I have seen a lot of hail storms, but never like this. Then it stopped. Some kind of crinkling noise fell on us and the air was filled with freshness and renewal and contentment.
We have a mighty and powerful Lord and He is returning soon.
Friday, October 16, 2009
El Niño
The weather forecasters predict an El Niño Dec-Feb. I am looking forward to it. This will be good for the old dog...those cold days are hard on him. And, we found out neither dog is house broken, so looking to have them stay inside with me was not a welcome alternative.
Since it is suppose to rain on Sun/Mon, I am thinking of getting together with Kathleen to decide what kind of flower beds she wants on the side of the house. We can get it in right after the rain or during the rain, if it is not too heavy. A neighbor down the road just gave us some Medallion Cross Lilies, which are suppose to be big red lilies. I am anxious to see them bloom. A search on the internet turned up nothing on them.
I see my sister is blogging again. That is great!!! She has a good strong writing style and it is very enjoyable reading of her adventures.
Since it is suppose to rain on Sun/Mon, I am thinking of getting together with Kathleen to decide what kind of flower beds she wants on the side of the house. We can get it in right after the rain or during the rain, if it is not too heavy. A neighbor down the road just gave us some Medallion Cross Lilies, which are suppose to be big red lilies. I am anxious to see them bloom. A search on the internet turned up nothing on them.
I see my sister is blogging again. That is great!!! She has a good strong writing style and it is very enjoyable reading of her adventures.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Sunny Days from the Past
Yesterday was a nice sunny day out. A perfect day for a visit from an old friend. Marcia and her mother came up and we went out to Rikki's for lunch. (Kathleen had taken me here before for a very enjoyable lunch.) Marcia, her Mom, and I enjoyed our meal there yesterday, also, and were glad to have gotten a heads-up about this place from Kathleen.
After Marcia left, I reminisced of memories of our teenage days. We were about 18 or 19 and each on our own and looking for adventure. Marcia had a car, so we each bought one of those little one-man "boats" that you use to sit and sun yourself in while in the water, and then we prepared to go to the lake. We loaded up a little tent and camping gear and took off for Holter Lake. In those days there were not houses on the lake, as there are now. We went to the far end and pitched the tent in one of the little valleys between the hills, near the road and the lake. We got our swim suits on, got the little boats out and enjoyed a HOT, SUNNY DAY in the sun and on the water. It was such fun. In the morning Marcia made coffee with a flavor that can't be forgotten as the ashes from campfire drifted in with the coffee grounds and gave it that campfire taste. We enjoyed our coffee with a hot breakfast (eggs and bacon...campfire flavored). My brother joined us one time and the younger brother of one of Marcia's friends also came another time. We loved being the great adventurers!
A time or two we just went down for the day to sun. Taking our towels and finding a comfortable spot along side the water. One particular time, we went down to sun bath and there were a lot of campers out. So we went a little farther around the bend, closer to the more wooded area. We found a nice spot to lay down on and enjoy the sun. I can't recall at this time why, but I either was sitting or standing and I looked over at Marcia, a ways away, and I watched as she silently, quickly and with a cautious, calculated move, came to her feet. She was eying something to her left on the ground. Shortly afterwards she picked up her towel and moved away from there. I asked her "what was it?" and she said that a snake was slithering past her towel on the ground as she lay there. I have thought about that move many times...she didn't jump or scream, but reacted in a way to both avoid confrontation with the snake and to not cause it to feel threatened. It was probably the Native American Heritage in her that gave her those cool nerves.
Of course, there was also the time she borrowed her brother's 10-man raft. Now we were able to go out on the water instead of staying close to the shore with the little rafts! We got quite a ways out and Marcia stops the raft and notices that it has a leak. Its a rubber raft. Now I don't know how to swim, so I am intent on getting the raft back to shore. Marcia wasn't ready to go back, so she leaned out the other side of the raft and paddled in sync with me and there we were -- going in circles. Of course, the hole wasn't big enough to sink us, and we did have fun with the adventure in spite of the threat of a sinking raft.
Good memories. I am fortunate, that after all these years, and all the different directions our lives have taken, that we are still friends and both still young at heart. God is good.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Record cold for Oct 10th
The temperature got down to 4 degrees last night. Judith Basin County recorded a low of -16 F., so we were warm compared to them.
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The hoses were put away before the cold hit, the snow shovel is now out and last year's ice melt is ready to be chipped (!!!). Got the old dog a coat this year. Had a heck of a time trying to catch him to put it on....he must not like red. Since he didn't get his coat on, I took him inside that night and wouldn't let him out in the morning til he put it on. He seemed quite happy with it after he got it on.
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The hoses were put away before the cold hit, the snow shovel is now out and last year's ice melt is ready to be chipped (!!!). Got the old dog a coat this year. Had a heck of a time trying to catch him to put it on....he must not like red. Since he didn't get his coat on, I took him inside that night and wouldn't let him out in the morning til he put it on. He seemed quite happy with it after he got it on. 
Now, when it is single digits, both dogs get to come in at night. I am concerned about them going out into the cold in the morning when they have been in a warm house. We will have to see if there is another way we can perhaps just heat up their dog houses a little.
This cold weather is perfect for "chili time." It is simmering as we speak. Looking forward to the warm temps coming back. Soon, I hope.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
A "Taste" of Heaven
Why the Lord does what He does, I cannot explain. I can only tell you what I’ve seen. However, because of what I have seen, I believe that the end-time prophesies are being fulfilled at a much faster pace, then we can imagine. Joel 2:28 “And it shall come to pass afterward That I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, Your old men shall dream dreams, Your young men shall see visions.”
The story of Sarah: In 1989 we completed remodeling of our home, including stripping, sanding and staining all the woodwork, We started the project about ten years before, but the time consuming nature of the work kept it from being finished until I quit work and could dedicate my time to it. So, 88-89 were the years of intense work with it. We were going to move to the country and had to finish up to sell it. We then moved and later sold it.
I was now totally exhausted all the time. THEN I got pregnant. I knew my body was not strong enough or well enough for a baby. I don’t know if it is always a practice, but I was asked if I wanted to keep my baby. So here was the question, have an abortion and walk away or have a baby that I knew was going to have problems. Years ago I might have followed the doctor's advice, and believed the lie that what I carried wasn't a baby, but now I am informed. I know that my baby IS a baby--there will be no abortion. With my first child, I was also given this option. Because I was over 30 I was told there was a greater chance of birth defects and labor would be much harder on the mother of a first time baby. I wanted to cry. I was so happy to be having a baby, we had been waiting for seven years and now they are recommending an abortion. But I just said no. Although their stab at my age destroyed my happiness at being pregnant…I just knew the whole world had condemned me—when my baby was born, the world changed and I had a baby in my arms.
Little Sarah, my fourth baby, was born in 1992. She had the most beautiful face, and was such a little baby! Later, one of the doctors told me she had a heart condition. When I asked about an operation, I was asked why would they operate on someone who wouldn’t even live a month. I was shocked and started crying. Sarah’s pediatrician came over and took Tim and me to another room and explained Sarah’s medical prognosis. He said she was handicapped, not just with one handicap, but many. She had a syndrome. He had seen one person with this syndrome and his description of the prognosis was so devastating, it was unbelievable that this little girl could turn into what he just described. A couple of years later I went to a SOFT conference in Chicago and there was a huge meeting room full of children with different trisomy syndromes and there was none of which the doctor had described.
After Sarah’s birth, we marveled at her abilities when she first came home. She was little and very agile, but we had to tube feed her to begin with and then we went to little bottles, made out of tubes with little nipples. However, she needed an operation. At the conference, years later, we found that the operation is usually done right away, but our doctor, I guess, thought she would heal herself. I wrote the original story of Sarah with much detail as a chapter in a life booklet that was a draft, but never published. In the original version, I was told --and this is not good or bad-- that my description of what happened showed I did not forgive the doctors. So I condensed, as I will do now.
Sarah’s life was tragically altered after the operation and ICU stay. When she finally came home she was not the same little girl. She could no longer look us in the eye—and never would again. Her oxygen sats were now between 50-70, sometimes going up to low 80’s. When she first came home she was almost lifeless, then we just held her and loved her and fed her little feedings starting with 2 – 3 an hour and gradually increasing as she got her strength back. I would spend a great amount of time walking her, while holding her canula tubing so that I wouldn’t trip over it or jerk her head when I stepped on it. As she became stronger, she loved being carried around as I accomplished things. She loved attention from the other kids and she liked it when I cradled my arm like a little throne and let her sit in it. She was so funny. She, also, loved to swing. We had gotten her a little Raggedy Ann doll and I tied it to the rope on her little swing (the red swing that attaches to doorways). I looked up one day and there she was swinging and she had reached up and was HOLDING Raggedy Ann’s hand.
We now had homecare come in for respite times. I had guard drills so would take off and afterwards I would be so glad to head home to her. I was worried the whole time I was gone. There was something so special about the love of this precious, fragile child. We then found a pediatrician that accepted Sarah and had only her best interest at heart. There were a lot of trips for ear infections, and many other medical conditions. We, also, found a caregiver who absolutely loved Sarah, so now there was no fear to leave her in her care so that I could accomplish my tasks.
One day I was sitting and rocking and holding Sarah (I would read to her or make up little plays for her with her little stuffed toys, or just rock and watch tv while she played.) We were sitting there and I felt Sarah looking at me. I looked down and in that moment a most awesome feeling came upon us. For a moment I felt some kind of wrong feeling try to get in but I immediately pushed it out without recognizing or knowing it. (I can't think how else to describe this and it was so momentary, I mostly forget about it.) Then there was a static like sound and in that instant a brilliant white light radiated out of Sarah’ eyes. I could not longer see Sarah, only this brilliant light with its rays beaming out. The light was intense and I stared unblinking. How long I stared I don’t know, but the intensity was amazing! Then I dropped my eyes for a moment and the light was gone. We were now in what felt like a cloud of love. I knew we no longer had to be touched or held to show love – it was complete – we were content. The dryer was going downstairs and now it buzzed that the cycle was over. I had to walk to the lower level to get the clothes. I got up and I felt my legs walk, but they were numb and heavy. As I descended the stairs, I felt myself walk out of the cloud of “heaven”. When I came back upstairs, the cloud was gone.
How long after that before she died, I don’t know, it could have been 2 months or 6 months. The night she died we rushed her to the hospital and she was put into ICU, and there the doctor on call wanted to observe only. I sat by her bedside. Tim went home to get the kids to school. Hours went by and I dozed off, suddenly I awoke realizing no one had fed Sarah. Then Sarah woke with a cry. I got out her formula and started to fix it. The nurse came in. I pickup up Sarah to feed her and she almost passed out. I told the nurse to get the doctor, she said she didn’t want to wake the doctor unless something was going on.
Sarah took one little drink and her eyes rolled back and her sats dumped. The nurse went to call, but I knew it was too late. As the nurse phoned, I turned to Sarah and suddenly I felt a strength come over me. My back was to the staff and I felt myself shut them out. I felt a heavy weight, as a cloak, lifted from my shoulders. Then a surge of strength entered me and went up my back. It felt as though my soul just opened up and it was just Sarah and I in spirit. Then the nurse came back and I watched Sarah’s sats and heart monitor drop and flat line. “Code Blue” was sounded and then everyone was there.
I prayed that God would take her now. Before, I had always prayed for Him to heal her, if that was His will. I knew there was no way Sarah could survive what they were doing to her, especially in her fragile condition. There was a huge lump in my throat and I could not stop them. Finally, it was over and they turned to ask me if I wanted to hold Sarah.
She was buried on a bitterly cold day. Because the ground was frozen, they left Sarah’s casket above ground until the groundskeeper could bury her. I had put her only in a summer outfit and it felt as if a knife ran through me not knowing if she could feel the cold or not.
Paul tells us that we can be confident that when we die, we will be in the presence of the Lord. 2 Cor. 5:7 “For we walk by faith, not by sight. 8 We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.”
Jesus, himself, tells us where we will be when we die: Luke 23:43 “And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.’” Paradise means “Garden of God”.
Reading one of Jesus’ parables we find a description of Sarah in the vision. “Matthew 13:24 Another parable He put forth to them, saying: ‘The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field; 25 but while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat and went his way. 26 But when the grain had sprouted and produced a crop, then the tares also appeared. 27 So the servants of the owner came and said to him, ‘Sir, did you not sow good seed in your field? How then does it have tares?’ 28 He said to them, ‘An enemy has done this.’ The servants said to him, ‘Do you want us then to go and gather them up?’ 29 But he said, ‘No, lest while you gather up the tares you also uproot the wheat with them. 30 Let both grow together until the harvest, and at the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, ‘First gather together the tares and bind them in bundles to burn them, but gather the wheat into my barn.’”
Jesus explains the parable to His disciples later:
“36 Then Jesus sent the multitude away and went into the house. And His disciples came to Him, saying, “Explain to us the parable of the tares of the field.
’37 He answered and said to them: ‘He who sows the good seed is the Son of Man. 38 The field is the world, the good seeds are the sons of the kingdom, but the tares are the sons of the wicked one. 39 The enemy who sowed them is the devil, the harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are the angels. 40 Therefore as the tares are gathered and burned in the fire, so it will be at the end of this age. 41 The Son of Man will send out His angels, and they will gather out of His kingdom all things that offend, and those who practice lawlessness, 42 and will cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be wailing and gnashing of teeth. 43 Then the righteous will shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears to hear, let him hear!”
Verse 43 -- There is our vision with Sarah!! How many times do we read about things in the Bible without really listening or giving an ear to understanding. Jesus was talking to us. What He says is what WILL be.
For me to heal took a long time, but the Lord was there, and He walked us through those long days and healed us with His love. There is a shock that comes with the loss of a loved one, and that-- only God can heal.
The story of Sarah: In 1989 we completed remodeling of our home, including stripping, sanding and staining all the woodwork, We started the project about ten years before, but the time consuming nature of the work kept it from being finished until I quit work and could dedicate my time to it. So, 88-89 were the years of intense work with it. We were going to move to the country and had to finish up to sell it. We then moved and later sold it.
I was now totally exhausted all the time. THEN I got pregnant. I knew my body was not strong enough or well enough for a baby. I don’t know if it is always a practice, but I was asked if I wanted to keep my baby. So here was the question, have an abortion and walk away or have a baby that I knew was going to have problems. Years ago I might have followed the doctor's advice, and believed the lie that what I carried wasn't a baby, but now I am informed. I know that my baby IS a baby--there will be no abortion. With my first child, I was also given this option. Because I was over 30 I was told there was a greater chance of birth defects and labor would be much harder on the mother of a first time baby. I wanted to cry. I was so happy to be having a baby, we had been waiting for seven years and now they are recommending an abortion. But I just said no. Although their stab at my age destroyed my happiness at being pregnant…I just knew the whole world had condemned me—when my baby was born, the world changed and I had a baby in my arms.
Little Sarah, my fourth baby, was born in 1992. She had the most beautiful face, and was such a little baby! Later, one of the doctors told me she had a heart condition. When I asked about an operation, I was asked why would they operate on someone who wouldn’t even live a month. I was shocked and started crying. Sarah’s pediatrician came over and took Tim and me to another room and explained Sarah’s medical prognosis. He said she was handicapped, not just with one handicap, but many. She had a syndrome. He had seen one person with this syndrome and his description of the prognosis was so devastating, it was unbelievable that this little girl could turn into what he just described. A couple of years later I went to a SOFT conference in Chicago and there was a huge meeting room full of children with different trisomy syndromes and there was none of which the doctor had described.
After Sarah’s birth, we marveled at her abilities when she first came home. She was little and very agile, but we had to tube feed her to begin with and then we went to little bottles, made out of tubes with little nipples. However, she needed an operation. At the conference, years later, we found that the operation is usually done right away, but our doctor, I guess, thought she would heal herself. I wrote the original story of Sarah with much detail as a chapter in a life booklet that was a draft, but never published. In the original version, I was told --and this is not good or bad-- that my description of what happened showed I did not forgive the doctors. So I condensed, as I will do now.
Sarah’s life was tragically altered after the operation and ICU stay. When she finally came home she was not the same little girl. She could no longer look us in the eye—and never would again. Her oxygen sats were now between 50-70, sometimes going up to low 80’s. When she first came home she was almost lifeless, then we just held her and loved her and fed her little feedings starting with 2 – 3 an hour and gradually increasing as she got her strength back. I would spend a great amount of time walking her, while holding her canula tubing so that I wouldn’t trip over it or jerk her head when I stepped on it. As she became stronger, she loved being carried around as I accomplished things. She loved attention from the other kids and she liked it when I cradled my arm like a little throne and let her sit in it. She was so funny. She, also, loved to swing. We had gotten her a little Raggedy Ann doll and I tied it to the rope on her little swing (the red swing that attaches to doorways). I looked up one day and there she was swinging and she had reached up and was HOLDING Raggedy Ann’s hand.
We now had homecare come in for respite times. I had guard drills so would take off and afterwards I would be so glad to head home to her. I was worried the whole time I was gone. There was something so special about the love of this precious, fragile child. We then found a pediatrician that accepted Sarah and had only her best interest at heart. There were a lot of trips for ear infections, and many other medical conditions. We, also, found a caregiver who absolutely loved Sarah, so now there was no fear to leave her in her care so that I could accomplish my tasks.
One day I was sitting and rocking and holding Sarah (I would read to her or make up little plays for her with her little stuffed toys, or just rock and watch tv while she played.) We were sitting there and I felt Sarah looking at me. I looked down and in that moment a most awesome feeling came upon us. For a moment I felt some kind of wrong feeling try to get in but I immediately pushed it out without recognizing or knowing it. (I can't think how else to describe this and it was so momentary, I mostly forget about it.) Then there was a static like sound and in that instant a brilliant white light radiated out of Sarah’ eyes. I could not longer see Sarah, only this brilliant light with its rays beaming out. The light was intense and I stared unblinking. How long I stared I don’t know, but the intensity was amazing! Then I dropped my eyes for a moment and the light was gone. We were now in what felt like a cloud of love. I knew we no longer had to be touched or held to show love – it was complete – we were content. The dryer was going downstairs and now it buzzed that the cycle was over. I had to walk to the lower level to get the clothes. I got up and I felt my legs walk, but they were numb and heavy. As I descended the stairs, I felt myself walk out of the cloud of “heaven”. When I came back upstairs, the cloud was gone.
How long after that before she died, I don’t know, it could have been 2 months or 6 months. The night she died we rushed her to the hospital and she was put into ICU, and there the doctor on call wanted to observe only. I sat by her bedside. Tim went home to get the kids to school. Hours went by and I dozed off, suddenly I awoke realizing no one had fed Sarah. Then Sarah woke with a cry. I got out her formula and started to fix it. The nurse came in. I pickup up Sarah to feed her and she almost passed out. I told the nurse to get the doctor, she said she didn’t want to wake the doctor unless something was going on.
Sarah took one little drink and her eyes rolled back and her sats dumped. The nurse went to call, but I knew it was too late. As the nurse phoned, I turned to Sarah and suddenly I felt a strength come over me. My back was to the staff and I felt myself shut them out. I felt a heavy weight, as a cloak, lifted from my shoulders. Then a surge of strength entered me and went up my back. It felt as though my soul just opened up and it was just Sarah and I in spirit. Then the nurse came back and I watched Sarah’s sats and heart monitor drop and flat line. “Code Blue” was sounded and then everyone was there.
I prayed that God would take her now. Before, I had always prayed for Him to heal her, if that was His will. I knew there was no way Sarah could survive what they were doing to her, especially in her fragile condition. There was a huge lump in my throat and I could not stop them. Finally, it was over and they turned to ask me if I wanted to hold Sarah.
She was buried on a bitterly cold day. Because the ground was frozen, they left Sarah’s casket above ground until the groundskeeper could bury her. I had put her only in a summer outfit and it felt as if a knife ran through me not knowing if she could feel the cold or not.
Paul tells us that we can be confident that when we die, we will be in the presence of the Lord. 2 Cor. 5:7 “For we walk by faith, not by sight. 8 We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.”
Jesus, himself, tells us where we will be when we die: Luke 23:43 “And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.’” Paradise means “Garden of God”.
Reading one of Jesus’ parables we find a description of Sarah in the vision. “Matthew 13:24 Another parable He put forth to them, saying: ‘The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field; 25 but while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat and went his way. 26 But when the grain had sprouted and produced a crop, then the tares also appeared. 27 So the servants of the owner came and said to him, ‘Sir, did you not sow good seed in your field? How then does it have tares?’ 28 He said to them, ‘An enemy has done this.’ The servants said to him, ‘Do you want us then to go and gather them up?’ 29 But he said, ‘No, lest while you gather up the tares you also uproot the wheat with them. 30 Let both grow together until the harvest, and at the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, ‘First gather together the tares and bind them in bundles to burn them, but gather the wheat into my barn.’”
Jesus explains the parable to His disciples later:
“36 Then Jesus sent the multitude away and went into the house. And His disciples came to Him, saying, “Explain to us the parable of the tares of the field.
’37 He answered and said to them: ‘He who sows the good seed is the Son of Man. 38 The field is the world, the good seeds are the sons of the kingdom, but the tares are the sons of the wicked one. 39 The enemy who sowed them is the devil, the harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are the angels. 40 Therefore as the tares are gathered and burned in the fire, so it will be at the end of this age. 41 The Son of Man will send out His angels, and they will gather out of His kingdom all things that offend, and those who practice lawlessness, 42 and will cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be wailing and gnashing of teeth. 43 Then the righteous will shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears to hear, let him hear!”
Verse 43 -- There is our vision with Sarah!! How many times do we read about things in the Bible without really listening or giving an ear to understanding. Jesus was talking to us. What He says is what WILL be.
For me to heal took a long time, but the Lord was there, and He walked us through those long days and healed us with His love. There is a shock that comes with the loss of a loved one, and that-- only God can heal.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Winter soon to come.
The ground was wet this morning, snow mingling with the rain from last night. When I went outside this morning, I came around the corner of the house and the wind must have cooled the cement even more. As it was, I did some fancy ice skating as I skated around the corner! In case some black ice also caught me by surprise on the highway, I was a little more careful driving today. I am so glad I got those new tires!
Last night I was awaken from my sleep when the storm came in. It was so loud, I thought there was a big semi truck or something in the front yard. It was just the wind...and it was strong. Hopefully this cold spell doesn't last too long. Church tonight. All is good.
(I took out the little story on Tim & Huimin. This escapade when they were 16 or 17 yrs old can wait until they are ready to retell it for themselves. I'll have other stories.)
Last night I was awaken from my sleep when the storm came in. It was so loud, I thought there was a big semi truck or something in the front yard. It was just the wind...and it was strong. Hopefully this cold spell doesn't last too long. Church tonight. All is good.
(I took out the little story on Tim & Huimin. This escapade when they were 16 or 17 yrs old can wait until they are ready to retell it for themselves. I'll have other stories.)
Friday, October 2, 2009
Thank God for Grease Monkeys!!
Mike got my pickup going again! Apparently you have to change the battery cables when they turn green. Went to town today to get new tires and then I got home in time to soak up a little of the sun that shined all day. What a beautiful day!
Sunday, when we are out standing on the street for Life Chain Sunday, the weather is suppose to be cold with rain. So, its heavy coats and umbrellas. If there is any help coming for those little babies, it will be from our God. Stay in prayer.
Sunday, when we are out standing on the street for Life Chain Sunday, the weather is suppose to be cold with rain. So, its heavy coats and umbrellas. If there is any help coming for those little babies, it will be from our God. Stay in prayer.
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