Happy New Year!!

Wishing you all a very Happy New Year.

We are not doing very much this evening. My parents and sister are coming over and we are going to play games and eat hors d'oeurves. We will try to stay awake until 12. Every year it gets harder and harder!

May you have a wonderful New Year filled with peace, joy and love.

Blessings to you all!!

Tuesday Tunes 20: 100 Years

Well, it is almost the New Year. Instead of boring you with a whole bunch of songs I really don't like, I thought I would choose a song about how quickly time passes.

This year has been a tough year for my family, but we have pulled through. Please read my sister's blog (click here) and I will write more tomorrow. Until then, enjoy this video by Five for Fighting - "100 years"! (Click here to read lyrics)

A New Years Quiz

You Should Make 3 Resolutions

Get Fit Eat Right Take a Trip

What Should You Resolve to Change Next Year?

Pretty good considering those are three things I am striving to do always!! (Especially the 3rd) Who knows what next year holds. I am looking forward to the adventure! Are you?

Top Ten Fridays: Things I Received at Christmas!

I won't spare you the details of Christmas. My kids made out like bandits - like I knew they would. They are very happy with all their toys (thank-yous to all relatives, near and far). Aidan said it was his best Christmas. (I am sure that he would have thought last year was his best, as well, but he doesn't remember from one year to the next!) Emma has the talking Elmo. She has a love-hate (read: run away from the scary red monster) relationship with it. It is oh so cute!

Anyway, I figured I would tell you ten things that I received for Christmas. Here they are in random order.

Top Ten Presents I Received For Christmas:

10) My husband's Wii - it is a gift for him, but really...I am going to play it, too! So will Aidan. And Emma will one day down the road.

9) Lack of Sleep - I am a kid at heart and can never sleep the night before Christmas. Plus, I was awakened by my parent's cat, Soda (we slept at their house). I got up and was ready to kill her...which brings me to number 8....

8) A Lot of Scratches - on my arm, specifically. I love Soda...

7) Wine - The only time I drink it is on special occasions. This was the special occasion. I will probably have some more on New Years. Perhaps some champagne, as well.

6) A sore arm and back - From number 10. It really is the game that gets you up and playing.

5) Lots of losses - Again because of number 10. Jonathan is really good at video games and hand-eye coordination. Must be the drumming thing...Needless to say, I have been beaten on almost every game we have played!

4) Lots of Pretend food - Yes, my kids received a kitchen set for Christmas. We have been having lots of pretend food together. They love it!

3) PJ Days - since my hubby is home with us we have been having a lovely time in our lazy day pjs. It is fun to not get dressed and play with toys. *She says, while wearing her sleeping atire at 1:43pm!*

2) Laughter and Tears - I received the Friends Season 3 (laughter) and the first 2 seasons of Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman (tears).

1) Pounds - on the waiste, probably. Turkey, goodies, eggs, eggnog, hot chocolate....My mom's fudge....

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Here are some of the real gifts I received: the above two, clothes, Cd, and gift cards. I also have some nice Christmas mugs and angel dishes for next Christmas, as well as a hot chocolate maker. And a couple lovely books from my in-laws.

Thank-you to everyone near and far. I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas, as well.

Tuesday Tunes 19: A Truly Bad Day!

Hello from the wonderfully horrible day! You know that children's book - "Alexander and The Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day"? That's what my day has been like today.

I broke a picture frame (the picture of me on worship team at Sherwood Park Alliance - which I remember so well and wonder if I will experience that again this side of heaven). Then when changing the laundry today I slipped on the floor downstairs. I jarred my arm and twisted my back and came down really hard on my left knee. I am trying not to think about the aches and pains. Then I accidently cut something that I was not supposed to. (It pertains to Christmas gifts, so I cannot say too much!) Then I lost the tack that was holding up some decorations. (Hopefully it doesn't get stuck in someone's foot!)

The icing on the cake is that my Dad is going back to work in January 4 hours a day. (I think this is great. I am not sure he's ready yet, since he hasn't been helping out at all around the house!) What this really means is that I am not longer on the sub list. My wonderful 'lunch purse' will remain where it is right now: on top of my fridge. I am happy for my Dad, but sad for me. I go back to being just an SAHM. Not a teacher (in the professional sense). No glamor (not that there is any in teaching). Just staying at home and raising my kids.

I am sad. I know that one day I will be a teacher. I know I am doing something really important. (I know you are all thinking about commenting on that right now!) I know this. But my heart still hurts. I long to sing and I long to teach. I will continue to long for these things until the opportunity to do them once again arises. Until then, I am just a stay at home mom. Doing an important job - if overlooked by others!

As promised, I will post one more Christmas song today. I am going to post two. One that reminds us what this is all about. The other is the final carol we always sing on Christmas Eve.
"Not that Far from Bethlehem" by Point of Grace. (Please ignore the strangers in the video and just listen to the music and words!) {Click here to view lyrics if problems}


"Joy to the World" by Faith Hill (and choir) {click here to view if problems}


I hope that you and yours have a wonderful Christmas with your friends, family and loved ones! May God meet you in the manger and remind you of His undying love for you this Christmas. He gave you the best present that you could ever want!

Sending you much love!!

Pre-Tuesday Tunes: Because I am 30 Now & I CAN!!

Since nothing happened this week (by nothing, I mean my 30th birthday) I have decided to post an extra Tuesday Tune this week. Have no fear faithful bloggers. I will post another tune tomorrow, but I have been dying to put this one up since U2 put it up on RedWire. So, here once again is my favorite band with a new song! (Well, new to them, anyway. I will take anything new by them right now. Their CD release has been officially postponed until March... I'm dying here!!)

Anyway, enjoy "I Believe in Father Christmas" by U2.



If not working go here.

30 Thank-Yous!!

No Top Ten today. A thank-you to my family for a wonderful party and presents.

Thank-you to...

...my hubby and kids for the iPod Nano (and roses from my hubby)

...my parents for the lovely shirt/sweater

...my sister for the gift card (which will go toward jeans) and the box of 30s (i.e. 30 peanut butter cups, 30 chop sticks, 30 rockets candy, 30 pennies...)

...my mom-in-law for the wonderful Elle lunch purse (which is more appropriate than bag) and the wonderful prayer book and digital keychain!

Thank-you all so very much! I was so excited with each present.

I hope you are all having a lovely weekend and are NOT in the malls shopping!!

No Originality at All...

And here I thought I was being original with at least Aidan's name! Check it out here: click here! Both kids' names are on the top ten list and Aidan is number one!! How does that happen???

Look Mom! I'm A Donkey!!

Yes, Aidan was a donkey, and he was sooooo cute! I could just eat him all up!!

Above: He is frantically looking for Mommy, Daddy, Emma, Granny and Grandpa. He was so excited when he saw us and even (at one point) waved at Granny.

Above: Here he is playing a handbell. Of course he had to wait until the last note to play. Then he got to let 'er rip! He loved it!


Above: The parent photo opp time! He looked wonderful! What a smart boy, if I do say so myself!

One more day of Preschool on Friday and then it is Christmas vacation!

Tuesday Tunes 17: Breath of Heaven and Hippos

Okay, I am going to do two songs today. I hope you enjoy them.

I want a Hippopotamus for Christmas




I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas - video powered by Metacafe

Breath of Heaven - Amy Grant

Top Ten Fridays: Ten Holiday Treats

And now (even though there is a winter storm warning and it is going to be freezing outside), another Christmas Top Ten Friday!!

Top Ten Holiday Treats: (Least favorite to Most loved - can't do without - treats)

10) Mincemeat Tarts - I have grown to love these tarts. They are my Dad's favorite so they are always around. They are really good and have a nice spicy taste.

9) Egg Nog - With or without the spiking??

8) Peppermint... - ANYTHING! I love Peppermint teas, hot chocolates, mochas...Yummy!!

7) Shortbread Cookies - Fattening, but delicious! (Especially if they are melt-in-your-mouth, like they should be.

6) Sugar Cookies - It is especially fun decorating these with the kids. Also my recipe is great for dipping into hot drinks.

5) Creme de Menthe bars - I love mint! Mint and chocolate comes second only to peanut butter and chocolate!

4) Nanaimo Bars - My ultimate favorite bar at Christmas. Yummy!

3) Butter Tarts - I can hear my Dad saying that "these can be had anytime of the year", but we never make them unless it is Christmas. I love them.

2) Battenburg Cake - Although I haven't had it for years because we used to buy it from Marks and Spencer, which is now closed down in Canada. I still remember it fondly and my mouth waters...

1) Mom's Home-made Fudge - Sorry! You can't make this one. I've tried, but it just isn't the same unless my Mommy is making it! She has that special touch, which I think runs in her side of the family. (Her uncle was a candy maker and owned a candy store downtown!)
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Ahh the memories that these bring back. My Mom and my aunt would set a day as the "Bake-a-thon" day. We would listen to Christmas music, bake and take short breaks for dancing on the footstool. It was lovely.

What are your baking memories? What will your family be eating this Christmas? Please share! (And pass the egg nog - unspiked!!)

Tuesday Tunes 16: It's True!!

Imagine the wonder of being told that you were going to have a baby, who would be the son of God. And Mary believed. She didn't even have to think about it. She immediately believed. Amazing.

Imagine being told by Mary, that you were going to be the father of the son of God. That Mary was already pregnant, and not with your child. You are not married yet, although you are engaged. Back then that was like being married already. Would you run away? Joseph doesn't, even though it would be a natural reaction.

Imagine angels telling you to come to Bethlehem and see a baby, wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger. He is the Savior of the World. He has come to save you. Go and see him. And the shepherds left and went. They believed right away. They didn't hesitate.

The story is as old as time, and yet it is still as powerful and fraught with mysteries and complications. It's True! This story. It's True!! That's what this song is about.

It's True - Sara Groves (click here to listen to a clip)

In your heart you
know it’s true
though you hold no expectation
in the deepest part of you
there’s an open hesitation

but it’s true
kingdoms and crowns
a God who came down to find you
it’s true
Angels on high
sing through the night
alleluya

heard it told you
think it’s odd
the whole thing fraught with complication
the play begins with baby God
and all His blessed implications

but it’s true
kingdoms and crowns
a God who came down to find you
it’s trueAngels on high
sing through the night
alleluia

alleluia, alleluia

Oh it’s true
kingdoms and crowns
a God who came down to find you
it’s trueAngels on high
sing through the night
alleluia

Top Ten Fridays: Favorite Christmas Movies

I apologize for having a late entry. We have had no internet for the past 48 hours. Our internet does this every once and a while. Yesterday I was fed up and called our provider. He told me to try a couple of things that I had already tried on my own. Then he said he would send someone out today (Saturday) to check it out. Murphy's law: I get off the phone and half an hour later my internet was back up and running!! Go figure!!

As promised, I will continue with favorite Christmas things. This week...movies!!

Top Ten Favorite Christmas Movies: (in random order)

10) Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer - with those wonderful songs and those characters (an elf that wants to be a dentist!!) this one is just loveable. It is also the one most likely to be shown on my birthday (Dec. 21)

9) Mickey's Christmas Carol - I love this one. It is a little less dark that the originals, so that kids can watch it!

8) Miracle on 34th Street (the newer version) - I have never seen the original (or just bits and pieces), but I just love Richard Attenborough as Santa Clause!

7) How the Grinch Stole Christmas (cartoon) - A classic!

6) How the Grinch Stole Christmas (Jim Carey) - Jim Carey has such a way with bringing the Grinch to life. It is very cute.

5) Muppet's Christmas Carol - Everytime I think of this one, I remember Kermit's nephew as Tiny Tim. He is just so cute. You just want to squish him!! Plus this one is musical and I love musicals!!

4) Little Drummer Boy - I just really like the simplicity of the story. It is what Christmas should be like: simple!!

3) Polar Express - Aidan loves this movie! I do to! I know it is all about believing in Santa Claus, but more importantly: It is about believing in something you cannot see. That is exactly what we do as Christians - FAITH!!

2) Charlie Brown's Christmas - Again, the story is simple! I always feel for Charlie Brown. He's trying to direct the play and no one is listening (Snoopy steals the show, of course). It is frustrating. It is the innocence that makes this one of my ultimate favorites. The Christmas tree, then Linus explaining the true meaning of Christmas.... It is lovely.

1) The Star of Christmas (Veggie Tales) - This one is just cute! I love the Veggie Tales!!
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Those are some of my favorites. I know I have left some out. Please let me know any of yours that I have missed!! I hope you have a chance to enjoy some wonderful Christmas specials!!

Tuesday Tunes 14: Twosday - 2 for 1 Day!

Since it is Tuesday (or Twosday, as Tina pointed out) I have decided to include 2 songs for Christmas today. I feel like I need to drown out the political chaos that our country is in today. It could suck me up with it, but I refuse to give in!

Here's one for Tina, since she has put this song in my head again! At least it has lovely pictures of warm places. Let's all go to Hawaii, shall we?



(If you cannot see the above, it is Bing Crosby's "Mele Kalikimaka", which I am sure you are all familiar with!)

The second one is more serious, I guess. I want to make sure that I include some that actually deal with the reason for the season, pardon the expression! This is one of my favorites. I really like the Michael W. Smith version, but I really liked this video (it's the Chris Rice version). "Welcome to our World".

Tears are falling, hearts are breaking

How we need to hear from God

You've been promised, we've been waiting
Welcome Holy Child

Welcome Holy Child

Hope that you don't mind our manger

How I wish we would have known

But long-awaited Holy Stranger

Make Yourself at home

Please make Yourself at home

Bring Your peace into our violence

Bid our hungry souls be filled

Word now breaking Heaven's silence
Welcome to our world

Welcome to our world

Fragile finger sent to heal us

Tender brow prepared for thorn

Tiny heart whose blood will save us

Unto us is born

Unto us is born

So wrap our injured flesh around

YouBreathe our air and walk our sod

Rob our sin and make us holy
Perfect Son of God

Perfect Son of God

Welcome to our world

May we visit the manger anew this year.

Weekend in Review: IT'S DECEMBER!! AAAHHHH!!!

It's December. I had a moment of panic this morning when I realized that it was December. I changed by calendar and then took some deep breaths. It will be alright. It will be alright.

Anyway, since my brain is on hiatus right now (AKA still recovering from shock) I will leave you with something that is a little more coherent. Enjoy this blog thingy, while I go wrap presents, address cards, bake cookies....

Your Christmas is Most Like: The Muppet Christmas Carol

You tend to reflect on Christmas past, present, and future... And you also do a little singing.

What Movie Is Your Christmas Most Like?

Top Ten Fridays: The Grinch and Mrs. Claus

Welcome to my first Top Ten Friday based solely on the wonderful holiday of Christmas.

Let me get one thing straight: I LOVE Christmas! I can't wait to put out my Christmas tree, hang my lights, decorate my house, do Christmas baking and (of course) listen to Christmas music.

The other important sidebar is that I married The Grinch. Bah Humbug!

I don't know how it happened. I have always loved Christmas and have always made this known to the world. Of course, my lovely husband has always made his opposition to the holiday known. Perhaps it was our first Christmas where this knowledge really began to sink in. Nevertheless, it has always been and continues to be this way in our household. Which brings us to my Top Ten...

Top Ten Fridays: What I Say, What He's Thinking....

10) Me: "I can't wait to put up the tree!!"
Him: "Will she notice if I burn it?"

9) Me: "I love wrapping presents!"
Him: "Can't we just put a ribbon on it?"

8) Me: "I can't wait to decorate! Can I do it now?"
Him: "If I see one more twinkling light...."

7) Me: "Christmas shopping is great. I love giving gifts."
Him: "Gift cards?"

6) Me: "I am going to send out Christmas cards, okay?"
Him: "Do I have to sign them?"

5) Me: "I love Christmas baking."
Him: "I love eating Christmas baking..."

4) Me: "Don't you just love all the Christmas lights?"
Him: "No...."

3) Me: "Let's listen to some Christmas music."
Him: "AAAHHHH....Run away!"

2) Me: "Hey! My favorite Christmas special is on!"
Him: "Just pretend you don't hear her!"

1) Me: "I love Christmas!!"
Him: "Bah Humbug!!"
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No matter what he says, I know he is glad to be celebrating Jesus' birth. That is the most important part of the season and the reason we celebrate!

May God fill you with His wonder and awe at the miracle of Christmas.

Tuesday Tunes 14: U2 Christmas

I thought I would start with something light. I LOVE U2. They are my favorite band of all time. So, I thought we could start with them. It is a pretty light number, but I still love it.

Enjoy!

If you can't see the following, please read the lyrics here.

Weekend in Review: The Anxious Bridegroom

I Christmas shopped, did homework, went to church, went on a date.... Yet the thing that I will remember most about this weekend is one quote from my Daniel study:

"You and I want God to be able to look on us amid our overindulged, self-abosrbed cuture, then glance to His right and say(to Jesus), "She has an extraordinary spirit, doesn't she, Son?" Perhaps Christ will nod His head and, while thinking the thoughts of an anxious bridegroom, lean over and say, "And isn't she beautiful?"

Jesus as the anxious bridegroom has been filling my thoughts. How much I love him and cannot wait to be with him. How wonderful will that be?

Top Ten Fridays: People In the Bible I Would Like to Meet

****We interrrupt this Top Ten Friday to bring you the breaking news that Emma sat on Santa's lap at the mall this morning. She cried only a little bit, but she did not scream and she posed long enough for the above picture to be taken. We now return you to our regular scheduled programming!*******

(Now if I can only get Aidan to do the same thing....)

Top Ten People in the Bible I Would Like to Meet: (in random order)

10) Paul - He was the first disciple to teach the Gentiles. I am a Gentile. I would like to hear his stories.

9) Mary Magdelene - only woman close to Jesus, among so many men. Very interesting.

8) Mary, mother of Jesus - Can you imagine raising the son of God? What must that have been like for her as a mother?

7) Daniel - The more I study him, the more I want to know him.

6) David - He is human and a chosen one of God. He sinned and yet was still used immeasurably.

5) Jonathan - He loved David like a brother. That kind of loyalty is something I would like to know.

4) Abraham - He continued to be faithful, even when the odds seemed against it. How must it have been for him to believe surrounded by unbelief?

3) Sarah - She raised a child when she was old. She would have lots of stories to tell!

2) Naomi and Ruth - They stayed together through thick and thin. I strived to be like them in my relationship with my mom-in-law. I am lucky to have in-laws that I like.

1) Jesus - There's nothing to say about this one. He is my savior. There are many things I would like to ask, say....Thankfully, I already 'know' him. I just can't wait to meet him face to face.

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Next week begins my Christmas Top Ten Lists. These will continue until Christmas. Stay-tuned....

Tuesday Tunes 13: Sara Groves - To Be With You

Okay. So I know last week I was complaining about the Christmas music. Then last Friday I found a wonderful album. It is Sara Groves new Christmas Album. I have featured her here before (see Wednesday, July 30, 2008). I love her stuff as it is not always the traditional Christian music we here on the radio. The Christmas album is like this, as well.

I am going to feature a few Christmas song favorites from now until Christmas. (I know it is still over a month away, but I love Christmas music!) The first one is one off Sara's album called: To Be with You. It is not online anywhere to listen to, so you will have to just read the lyrics. It is a wonderful song and I think it fits perfectly with everyone getting ready to celebrate Thanksgiving in the States as well as Christmas. Enjoy!

To Be With You
By Sara Groves, Ben Shive and Andy Gullahorn

We come in from our travels
Lay our gifts beneath the tree
my mothers in the kitchen
the parade is on tv

my father’s with his father
their setting out some toys
the kids all want the train he’s had
since he was a boy

to be with you
to be with you
i love this time of year
it always brings me here
to be with you

I fall in with my sisters
just like when we were young
my grandma holds the baby
she rocks and softly hums

we gather round the table
we close our eyes and sing
Praise God from whom all blessings flow

to be with you
to be with you
i love this time of year
it always brings me here
to be with you

Praise God from whom all blessings flow

We set our milk and cookies
the kids are quick to bed
they know St. Nick is coming
and nothing need be said

we gather by the fire
reminiscing by it’s light
the kids will be up early
but it’s hard to say goodnight

to be with you
to be with you
i love this time of year
it always brings me here
to be with you

Daniel Study: Pride

(Sorry - No Top Ten today! Perhaps one this weekend!)

I am not going to say much. I feel as though God is trying to teach me that less is more. So, all I will say is that I am feeling like a person who has been cut down. I feel like God has been doing some pruning of some not very pretty branches that needed cutting. I continue to get 'pruned'. It is not over yet. I know that God just wants the best for me.

I have been full of pride that I didn't even recognize was pride. I apologize to anyone who I might have offended by this pridefulness. It was not my intention. In any case, God has shown me through Beth's teachings and a dream, that I have a few areas that I need to deal with or else! I am going to deal with these and will let you know how they are going.

In the meantime, please read my blog over here: Room to Write. This is the blog that I use to compose poetry. There are a few entries there, but the one for today speaks volumes about this issue.

I hope that you enjoy it and have a wonderful day!

Tuesday Tunes 12: Enough with the Christmas Music Already!!

I cooked a turkey yesterday for my parents, sister and my small family. It was the first time I have ever cooked a turkey on my own. It turned out really well. The dark meat was just falling off the bones!!

I am still sick. So is Emma. This has been great fun! NOT! She is also teething (her eye teeth), which can be extremely painful. She has not been her happy-go-lucky self and neither have I. This has not been good. Aidan has been pretty good, though.

I was in Wal-mart this morning...(before I go on, I should mention that I LOVE Christmas! I cannot wait to put out my decorations, trim the tree and listen to Christmas music!) They had all their Christmas stuff out, which was fun to look at. Unfortunately, Wal-mart had their Christmas music on already. I love Christmas (see above), but even this is too early for me. (And I'm a keener!)

On that note, I just wanted to share with you a song book that my mom found for me in Toronto for Aidan. It is filled with hilarious songs about Christmas. It is called, "Where did they hid my presents" by Alan Katz and David Catrow. (click here) They are hilarious. My most favorite one is called, "Batteries", which talks about how on Christmas morning, you (as a parent) need to buy batteries or else the toys won't work!

Anyway, it is a really funny book and worth a look at if you get the chance. He has a couple others out like, "Take me out of the bathtub" and "I'm Still here in the Bathtub". He was the writer of all of those funny songs that Rosie O'Donnell used to sing on her show.

No song today. Just a plug for some Christmas fun, even if it is still over a month before Christmas!!

An Extra Edition Today....

I am sick, so I am not doing too much. I am sitting around in my pjs, sweating out my cold and drinking coffee. I slept horribly last night because my throat was sooo scratchy. I have been taking my Cold FX and trying to stay warm. It is hard to be sick with children because they do not understand.

It is my 30th birthday on Dec. 21. I am not sure what I think about turning 30, but I do want to celebrate it in some way. Not the usual way. It would be nice to do something a little bit different. Maybe a Karaoke party or something. I think the 30th birthday is pretty mportant for men and women, but I think women feel it more. (Maybe I think that because I am a woman!!)

Anyway, the reason I am writing about it is that I am after suggestions. How did you celebrate your 30th birthday? (if you have) What would you do? I am pretty open to anything...within reason. I would love to hear your ideas and stories. Let me know.

Top Ten Fridays: Reasons Why Not To Have Babies

It seems like a whole ton of people around me are having babies. I am not. I am okay with this fact. So I thought I would share some of my reasons for only wanting 2 kids.

Top Ten Reasons Not to Have Babies:

10) They smell.

9) They're small and could potentially get lost, stepped on or misplaced.

8) They have projectile everything. Both ends. Sometimes apart and sometimes simultaneously.

7) They don't do things when you want them to. (I.E. eating, sleeping, burping, pooping...)

6) They're poor communicators. They don't know how to tell you what is wrong and they are nosy about their needs.

5) Diapers.

4) Midnight feedings.

3) Breast feeding was never good for me. Who wants to sit for hours and feed a baby?? I have things to do, people!!

2) They cause a lot of worry. You are constantly worrying about them: day or night.

1) They're manipulative. They're cute and cuddly and small. You think that having one would be great. Then the above happens! They are so sneaky!!
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Yes, this list is not supposed to be taken seriously. At the same time, I am so glad that I am not having another one. Once i went through each stage with Emma, I was so glad that I would not see that stage again.

Now I can just hold the babies and then pass them back to their mommies and daddies when they begin doing one of the above!! That is wonderful!

Tuesday Tunes 11: Hide and Seek

It was DVD night at Bible Study yesterday. It hit me hard. God is really showing me something about myself that I was not prepared to deal with...but it fits. Where I am right now totally makes sense with what God is telling me. I will explain more once I mull it over some more.

Until then, I thought I would share another new find: Imogen Heap. She plays with a lot of different sounds and her music is kind of moody, but it is really neat. Some of her songs have been used on TV shows (like Heroes) and others, I am sure.

Anyway, here is one where she uses just her voice - no other instruments. It is very haunting, but I like it! Hope you do, too!!

Daniel: The Fire

I thought I would write a bit about the study that I have been doing in my Monday night class. We are doing Beth Moore's Daniel study. It has been eye opening in many ways, but I would specifically like to talk to you about one thing that keeps coming up this week.

We just finished studying the story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. If you don't know the story, you can read in here in Daniel 3. Basically, the three men get thrown into the fiery furnace because they will not bow down to the idol King Nebecanezzar has made. They survive the furnace, with a little help from "the son of the gods". (i.e. there was a 4th person in the fire with them!!) They came out and King Neb. worshipped God because he had saved them.

Anyway, Beth Moore pointed out that we all may end up in 3 situations, pertaining to fire. (Fire=trials, sicknesses, etc.) The first is that God may deliver us from the fire. In this case He saves us before we are in the fire. In this way, our faith is built up. An example of this would be if we find a lump and the tests come back without it being cancerous.

The second situation could be that God may deliver us through the fire. That is what He does in the story of the three men. He lets them get in, but He does not let the fire kill them. They come out on the other side refined by the fire. Our faith will be refined because of this. An example of this for me was when I worked up north in McLennan. I came out of that refined with a stronger belief in God and His amazing strength.

The last situation could be that God may deliver us to Him by the fire. This is the one that no one likes to talk about. The one that we as humans have a hard time facing, understanding, comprehending. Sometimes God uses the fire to take us to His arms. We want to stay here on earth, our human selves do, because we forget or do not fully comprehend what lies beyond this life.

We shouldn't. As Christians we should rejoice when it is our time, when God decides to take us home. But, it is hard. Hard to let go.

I just wanted to share this with you all because I feel like there is a lot of death, fire and despair going around. The economy (a fire) is bad. Friends of family are facing tough times and my dad goes back for a check-up next week to see if the cancer is gone or is still around. Things seem out of our control, and that's because they are. We are not in control. God is. Whether you believe in Him or not, He doesn't need you to believe in Him for Him to be in control....

I guess I find this comforting and even hopeful. If I let God be in control of my own life and follow Him, then my life will turn out better than anything else I could ever imagine or do on my own.

In the end, if it is my time to be delivered to His arms, then I will remember what awaits me: a big hug from my Heavenly Father. In that moment my faith will be perfected. I can never reach perfection here, but I know I will be made perfect there! What an awesome thought!!

Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to the king, "O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. 17 If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. 18 But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up."

-Daniel 3: 16-18

The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

- 2 Timothy 4:18

Tuesday Tunes 10: Who and What - Comment Replies

The answer to everyone's question is:

"Tell Me I Was Dreaming" by Travis Tritt

Sorry if my blog seemed hard to listen to, or whatever. Blogger was doing something really wonky yesterday while I was posting.

Have a super day!

Tuesday Tunes 10: Country

Well it is Tuesday. The end of Tuesday. I am going to post a song, as well. But I thought I would include a blog thingy. I hope you are all having a lovely day.

You Are Country Music

You are friendly, down to earth, and fairly conservative. You are true to your friends and your upbringing. Change is hard for you. But beneath your old fashioned attitude, you are expressive and artistic in your own way. Very few people can express pain and pleasure as eloquently as you can.

What Kind of Music Are You?

So, I have decided that I am going to post a country song. Here's one of my favorites (all-time, hands down).

If you can't see it, click here. Also, you may want to listen to the follow up song called "If I lost you" with the video.

If that doesn't work, listen here.

Weekend in Review: I Can Make Puppets Talk!

Yes. It is official. I am a puppeteer once again. How exciting it is to do puppets! I forgot how much fun it was.

I showed up on Saturday night for my "Shepherd"-ing job at Promiseland and ended up doing puppets. How fun!! It was a blast. I only mad a few mistakes. (Not enough mouth movement from my puppet!) Considering I had never looked at the script before I went in on Saturday, I figured I did pretty good.

That's about all I have done this weekend of importance. I went on a date with my hubby on Friday night. We went for supper, bowling and then dessert at The Cheesecake Cafe. It was fun. We haven't had a fun date in a long time, so it was nice.

I did go to my friend's daughter's baptism on Saturday afternoon, too. She was my best friend in high school. We still keep in touch, but we are not as close as we used to be. Maggie (the baby) is so small (10 weeks old) and cute. That being said, I am so glad I am not going through with that again!! I am done with sleepless nights and feedings at 2 am. It was nice, but I am glad I have moved on!!

I need to go and do some homework for tonight. Hope you all have a wonderful day!

Top Ten Fridays: Reasons to Drink....Coffee

I think we are all in need of some humor today. So, here's my list for this Friday. Perhaps this will set your mind at ease and will think about something other than the economy for a while.

In any case, grab a cup of joe and relax.

Top Ten Reasons to Drink Coffee:

10) Nice and hot in the morning - It is getting colder outside, so this one should be up near the front of the list. But, I digress. It is a lovely way to wake up to a cold house and drink a nice and hot, fresh cup of coffee.

9) Too early for Coke - Although I have been known to drink Coke on occassion in the morning, instead of making coffee.

8) Goes nicely with breakfast foods -Especially with pancakes from Phil's!

7) Tastes okay, especially if you add sugar and cream - I know there are people out there who like it black...I am not talking about those 'crazies', only us normal people. You know, those of us who like a lot of flavored cream in our coffee to mask some of the taste, but keep the benefits of the caffeine? Don't pretend you are not one of those if you are. There is nothing to be ashamed of.

6) Smells divine - There is nothing like it.

5) Reminder that no one is perfect - Let's face it. We are addicted to the stuff (at least I am) and we crave it daily. Even if it turns our teeth yellow and we get the shakes and headaches if we don't have enough! How perfectly 'human' we are.

4) It's a good drink to have when visiting with friends - Most of us drink it, so it is a good thing to do with friends. Many wonderful conversations have happened in my short life over coffee. I am sure this will continue.

3) Goes great with donuts - This is just for all us Timmy Ho's fans up here in Canada. Sorry to those of you in the States or elsewhere that have no idea what I am talking about!!

2) Gives you a kick - Why else do we drink it? There is no other reason, really, unless you are one of the 'crazies' mentioned above that actually like the taste. For the rest of us, it is a jump start in the morning or whenever we need it!

1) Why not? - What else are you going to drink? Orange juice? Some organic stuff? Who wants to be healthy???

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What's that? You need to go and have some coffee right now? Okay. I'll be waiting until you get back...

Hey...can you get one for me, too?

Tuesday Tunes 9: I Love Teaching and NKOTB?

Yes. It is official. I am substitute teaching again. I did a half day yesterday, and remembered how much I love teaching. It is what I was meant to do. I can't wait to do it full time, but until then I will be satisfied to borrow other people's classes for a while.

In the meantime, I am going to share with you a huge secret...I am addicted to the new New Kids on the Block album. Okay. Now that I have shared this addiction, I feel so much better. I was a huge fan (under statement) when I was a kid. I had a New Kids wall in my room (floor to ceiling) of their pictures, especially Jordan Knight's. I am not so much into the 'teen idol' thing anymore, and their music is definitely not for teens, by any means. (not their latest album - many songs are 18+) I still like it.

I have 2 favorites so I will try and share both. Now remember everyone, I am a married woman. That being said, I think we can proceed.

The first is called, "2 in the morning", which is a place where I have been in my own marriage many times.

The second is called, "Don't Cry". It is also a very powerful song for me in my relationship with my husband. Use pop-out player.

I hope you have enjoyed these two, because I really like them a lot. If you did not, I hold nothing against you.

Have a wonderful day.

Some Pictures...

I am having a horrible day. So, here are some pictures of the kids when we went to Coffee and Screams with Lissa, Liam and Andy. I will write when I am in a better mood. Enjoy!

Aidan and Emma Update: Clifford

It has been a long couple of days. I am exhausted just thinking about it.

The election went fine, except for those few people who do not read their voter cards and show up at the wrong place. Also, there are those that did not read the other mail that told them to bring ID, with their current address on it. A few disgruntled people, that's all. I just smiled the whole time. (I am still catching up on my housework, though. I don't know how people do it who work full-time!)

The kidlets were fine for Grandpa, but Emma did not sleep. She is really trying to give up her afternoon nap. (I hear it goes away quicker with the second!) I am not ready for that, though.

Yesterday was Apple day at Preschool so Aidan had to take an apple to school. They made applesauce, but it was too hot to eat. They will eat it tomorrow. He had a wonderful time.

Then in the afternoon we went to my Mom's school because she was having Clifford the big red dog visit. He always comes when my Mom has her book fair in the library. Emma absolutely loved Clifford. She followed him around the whole school and kept saying to him, "Walk Clifford. Walk. Come on, Clifford. Come on."

Aidan spent the time in the Kindergarten classroom. He used to visit last year during Center time. Yesterday he spent the entire afternoon in the ECS class. Mrs. Phil said he did really well and is totally ready for school. I was so proud of him and he seemed really happy to be able to go.

Aidan is trying to read, as well. He was trying to read the sides of Jenny's glasses on Saturday. He was sounding out the letters. And he can tell any words that rhyme together, which shows readiness for reading. I am buying him a few levelled readers at the book fair for Christmas, so we can start reading together.

Emma is also talking up a storm. It is really cute.

Well, I think that is all for now. We are all resting today. It is going to be a crazy weekend again...Jonathan is playing drums on Friday and Saturday at a youth conference. So we won't see him until Sunday. (Pretty much!!) Ahhh, the life of a drum-widow!

ELECTION 2008

Yes, it is that wonderful time, when all the pandering, gossiping, name-slinging, finger-pointing and endless promises comes to an end. Tomorrow is Election day. There will be no more time for proposals, ideas, threats, higher taxes, more spending...It all comes down to how the people will vote.

When you think about it, it is really quite fascinating. We put so much emphasis on the process of being elected, and yet it is the actual time in the Parliament that really counts. It will be interesting to see how it all turns out, but I am sure it will be a minority government again, with Harper in the lead.

I am working the election again. I am doing the same job that I did last election. There is way less writing this time, though. Hopefully I will not get a hand cramp like last time. It will be pretty quiet until supper time. That's when everyone shows up!! I can hardly wait!!

I hope all you Canadians out there will get out and vote. It is important and such a duty and responsibility as a citizen. (I have said a lot on this before, so I won't continue!!)

Take care and I will be back later to discuss the results!

Top Ten Fridays: Thanksgiving

Top Ten Things I am Thankful For:

10) Nature - trees and especially the mountains.

9) Canada - We live in a wonderful country with many freedoms and luxuries that other countries do not have. We take it for granted, even during an economic crisis.

8) Books - What would I do without something to read??

7) Coffee & Chocolate - Though this may seem trivial, it is important to me. I am sure I could live without them if I had to...

6) Music - What can I say about this? I am a singer and music has always been a part of my life.

5) Friends - They are there for you when you need them. They love you and they are not related to you - they do it by choice. That is amazing and wonderful.

4) Family - They support me in everything - both my family and my in-laws. They are wonderful.

3) Children - What a blessing it is to be able to have two wonderful children that God created. What an awesome resposibility, as well. I love them both so much and can't remember life without them. I wouldn't trade it for the world!!

2) Husband - What can I say...He is my rock. My heart. My best friend. My soulmate. My love for him continues to grow everyday. Who knew that I could love someone so much?

1) Jesus - The ultimate gift. The ultimate blessing. There is none like You, God. None who would send their only Son to die for a sinless people. You are amazing and I am in awe of Your love and grace continually. Thank-You for Jesus. You are amazing!! I am unworthy....
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To all my Canadian friends and family, Happy Thanksgiving! Have a wonderful time with your families and eating that delicious turkey!

Tuesday Tunes 8: Filling up the Void

I keep coming across all of these wonderful Christian songs lately. This is one of them. I never watched the season of American Idol where Mandisa was a contestant. So, I am new to her stuff, but I love her voice and her honesty.

It just seems to me that with everything that I am learning in my Bible study, this song seems so appropriate and timely. (As do many other current events...I will write on those tomorrow, so stay tuned!!)

I hope I am not alienating any of you with my song choices of late. I am just choosing songs that have touched me. Sometimes they are Christian and sometimes they are secular. In any case I hope that you can enjoy this song for what it is.

Have a wonderful day and enjoy!!



Mandisa's: Voice of a Savior (click here if you cannot see the above)

Click here for the lyrics and to listen for free.

Top Ten Fridays: TV Shows Present

After taking a trip down memory lane for the past 2 weeks, I continue to think of TV shows. I would just like to point out that I did not just watch TV when I was a kid. Some of these shows I didn't watch until they were on reruns, when I was a teenager. (Just so you know!)

This week we will talk about my favorites right now. These are the shows that I watch right now. So, without furthur ado....

Top Ten TV Shows - Present:

10) Survivor - Although this season seems to be a little bit (shall I say it?) BORING!! I think it has almost run its course.

9) The Office - We just started watching it this year. Very funny.

8) Life - Very good acting, with funny parts. I like it, so it will probably be cancelled soon. I always like the shows that aren't very popular.

7) Heroes - Watched the first season this summer. Was totally hooked. Now we are trying to get through the 2nd season, but it SUCKS!! Sorry, but it is not as good as the first season. My sister said the new season is better. So we just have to keep plugging on through. (We are taping the 3rd season right now! NO SPOILERS, PLEASE!!)

6) Dexter - We got hooked to this series during the writer's strike because CTV picked it up. Now?? It is no longer on our stations. I just thought I would mention it because I would watch it if it was still on.

5) Criminal Minds - This is my show. Jonathan does not like this one at all. I do like him to be home when I watch it because it does get pretty scary sometimes. (And dark, Jonathan would say - Although he watches The Shield!)

4) Amazing Race - LOVE IT! That's all I have to say!

3) CSI - There is nothing like the original. Plus, they keep us waiting for the season premiere...like forever. This is William Peterson's last year, so I suspect he will end up with Sarah Sidle in the end!! YEAH!!

2) Fringe - My new FAVORITE! It is on after House. Jonathan calls it "the poor man's X-Files", but I really enjoy it. A show that has many secrets and reveals them over time is always good, but this one does it very well. It is a thinking show, though, and sometimes those don't fair well. We'll see. (And it has Joshua Jackson...Need I say more?)

1) House - I never watched this show till I was living with my parents. Now I wish I had. I am sad that Wilson is gone - for the time being, but the show must go on. It is brilliant and the phrases that House comes up with are brilliant.
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Thanks for joining me on this TV journey. I will think of something else next week...Ahhh, to have to be original.

Tuesday Tunes 7: Worship Unrestrained

This is one of my favorite worship songs by one of my favorite bands: O Praise Him by David Crowder.

Enjoy!!


Oh to be that brave!! I long to worship God in this way: wherever I am. No matter who is around. This is the ultimate goal and my prayer!

Top Ten Fridays: TV Shows Past II

Okay. The second installment. Without furthur ado...

Top Ten TV Shows Past - Part 2: (in no particular order)

10) Golden Girls - I loved this show. I used to watch reruns of it all the time in college. (And reruns of the spinoff, Empty Nest) They were hilarious and had perfect timing. Good show.

9) Night Court - Bull - remember him? That show was so good. I wish they would rerun that!

8) Full House - Who didn't grow up on this in the 90s? DJ and I grew up at the same time. We faced the same things at the same time. I felt like she was a friend.

7) Friends - I have been collecting these. I need 3 more seasons in order to have the complete collection. I also grew up with these and watched every season, except the season where I was on Morning Star. I still love watching the episodes over and over again. My favorite show of all time.

6) Arrested Development - This show wasn't on for very long, but it was hilarious. Very dry. Very funny. Very smart humor. I guess people don't want to think with sitcoms. I loved it. Jonathan has started to collect it. We have 3 seasons. I think we are missing one.

5) Alf - Who knew we would laugh so much with an alien? He was hilarious.

4) Webster - I don't need to say any more about it. It speaks for itself.

3) Kate and Ally - They were really good at making us laugh.

2) Different Strokes - "What you talkin' about, Willis?"

1) Facts of Life - I loved Joe. I wanted to be an individual like her and not let anyone boss me around or tell me what to do. I guess that is where I got some of independence and resolve from.

There are many more that I have thought of: Designing Women, Punky Brewster, Blossom, NYPD Blue, Rags to Riches, Silver Spoons, Matlock, Murder She Wrote, Twilight Zone, Different World, Head of the Class, 21 Jump Street, Night Rider, Neon Rider....Okay enough.

Thanks for taking this trip down memory lane with me. Next week we will look at my favorite shows right now. If I missed anymore you can think of, let me know.

Here's a little something to remember this wonderful journey we've made:

Aidan and Emma Update: Help!! I have a Terrible Two!!

It seemed like a dream the past month and a half. Aidan had stopped having quite so many temper tantrums and screaming fits. Emma has always been easy going. I felt a lot happier and way less stressed!! That was until this week.

Emma has decided to enter into the terrible twos early. (She's now 1 1/2.) Girls do mature faster than boys, so I should have been prepared. I have done this before. I should remember, but it is funny what you forget between kids. Now she has started screaming, yelling and crying when she doesn't get her way. Tears roll down her cheeks and she has even hit me a few times. (She had her first time out because of it!!) It is amazing to me that as one begins to calm down, the other one starts up!! What's with that???

Emma now has 2 of her 4 molars. The other two are starting to push through, as well. She had her 18 month shots last Friday, which went alright. She was a little grumpy, but nothing that Advil won't help.

Emma and I have also been attending Gymboree class on Monday mornings while Aidan is at Preschool. It is a lot of fun and Emma tries something new everytime she goes. She even started to sing the songs last time and continue to sing them as we walked to the car. She's so cute!!

Aidan has been in Preschool for 3 weeks and is loving it. He walks into class, puts up his name and then says, "Bye, Mommy. Have fun without me because I am in school now!" He has to be reminded to give me a kiss before I leave. It is amazing what a year will do, I suppose.

He has matured a lot in the last little while, too. Not big things, but the little things. (I.e. not freaking out for 20 minutes; not crying when his milk spills; not complaining about noise so much...) This has been a relief to everyone, I think. He is growing up and I am trying to let him...it is hard for a Mommy, though! And to think this time next year he will have finished his first month of Kindergarten.

Right now we are all watching Sesame Street and the kids are wearing their Halloween costumes. (Aidan is being a dragon and Emma is going to be Tigger - all costumes they have worn before!) At least I get to save some money that way this year. Jonathan and I are trying to save up enough to go to Vegas in the new year.

Hope you are all having a wonderful day. It is a beautiful day here.

Tuesday Tunes 6: Josh Groban goes TV Oldies

Just for fun, in case you missed it!! It must have been fun to do this!!

Weekend in Review: No More Watermelon!

How much watermelon can you have in one weekend? I tried to answer that question at camp. Let me just say that having it 4 times a day is too much.

Camp was interesting...we'll move on.

I watched the Emmy's last night. It was like a trip down memory lane. I had no idea that they were planning that, which made my blog entry on Friday very timely. Thanks to those of you who left me a few others. I will post another list on Friday.

The Emmy's were fine (I try to mute the speeches if possible). Unfortunately, celebrities still think they are politicians and political scientists, trying to give us their view point on who to vote for. Sorry, but unless you have a degree in poli-sci or have experience, I am not going to listen to you. I would rather listen to normal people, who live normal lives.

And what is up with "30 Rock"? I have watched it a couple of times. It is okay. But is it really funnier than "The Office"? I don't think so!!

And then there was "Madmen", which I have never seen. But to beat out "House" or "Dexter"? Crazy.

The "Amazing Race" won for best Reality TV show...again. So, all was not lost. It starts again next Sunday, so I will keep you posted. I love that show, and Jonathan has started to tape all the reruns of it on VHS. (Like father, like son. If he starts numbering them, I'll let you know, Sandra!!)

Last night was the first time that I had heard that William Peterson was leaving CSI, for sure. I have decided that he is allowed to leave if he is going after Sarah Sidle. That is the only way I will be happy. (It is a little bit funny my addiction with some shows...or sad!)

I hope you are all having a fun day. I am tired. Please check out Postsecret if you have not already. There are some really good secrets this week, especially the last one!!

Have a great day!

Top Ten Fridays: TV Shows Past I

I am sick (a mild cold) and heading to camp in a few hours. Here's a quicky for all you blog followers out there. I have started with the past and will do another segment next week. (There were too many to fit on this list!!) I hope you have a wonderful weekend.

Top Ten TV Shows Past I: (in random order)

10) Cheers - "Norm!!" We want to go where everybody knows our name!

9) Murphy Brown - I loved this show. So did my dad. It was one of his favorites. Such a strong woman as a main character. It was awesome.

8) Degrassi Junior High - For all of us Canadian born children, we were allowed to watch this show because it talked about many of the issues we were facing at the time. It provided safe answers, as well. Who can forget Joey Jeremiah? Snake? Spike with the baby? If you have no idea what I am talking about, click here.

7) Star Trek: The Next Generation - Yes, I was a Trekky when I was growing up. I did watch the original after school in elementary. Then in Junior high I would come home and watch Jean-Luc and his crew in The Next Generation. "Live Long and Prosper"!

6) Perfect Strangers - I loved Balky. What a great comedic duo. "Now we do the dance of joy!"

5) Family Matters - Ahhh, Erkel. Need I say more? This was part of the famed TGIF tv night on Fridays. It was nice to be able to watch TV with the whole family. You can't do that very much these days.

4) X-Files - Mulder and Scully! Will they ever get together? Who is the smoking man? The truth is out there.

3) Growing Pains - Kirk Cameron....

2) Family Ties - Alex P. Keaton...

1) Cosby Show - Again a wonderful show that you could all sit down and watch together. I love Bill Cosby. They just had such wonderful chemistry on that show. You can still watch reruns (which I do on occasion) on some channels.

Like I said. There are still many more that I have not even touched yet. I will do Part II next week, so stay tuned. What are some that you liked?

Have a great weekend.

Tuesday Tunes 5: I Talk to Tomatoes!

Okay. It is now time for confession. I LOVE watching Veggie Tales. If you are not sure what it is, please click here. It is a wonderful children's Christian cartoon, with lots of fun for parents, as well. (And yes, even teenagers will love this show!!)

Without furthur ado, here is one of my favorite Silly Songs with Larry. The part of the show where Larry (the cucumber) comes out and sings a silly song.




Always worth a laugh!

Weekend in Review: Book Club

Well, this past weekend was supposed to be the first meeting of my book club: The Feathered Quill. Unfortunately, only my mom and my sister could make it. So, it has been postponed until after we read our first book: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. I am opening up my book club to any of you who might want to read along with us. I will probably have a site up and running for discussions on the books we are reading. Just let me know if you are interested in taking part.

Other than that, nothing much happened this weekend. Aidan is a little bit sick (a wee cold). He's just building up his resistance again. I am sure he will be fine in a day or two.

Hope you all are doing well. It is a lovely day here. The temperature is supposed to reach 26 degrees celcius. Hopefully gas prices will go down, too!!

Top Ten Fridays: Favorite Fall Things

I apologize to those of you who regularly read my blog. This was the first week of Preschool, so it has been quite a ride, without much time for blogging.

It feels like fall outside. There are even some leaves on the trees. (Global warming...yeah right!!) Anyway, I really love this season. I thought I would share this with you all.

Top Ten Favorite Fall Things: (in random order!)

10) The colors - They are lovely. The oranges, yellows, greens and browns. (A few reds, but not too many here in Alberta.) Gorgeous! They remind me that God makes beautiful things, including me.

9) School supplies - Even when I am not in school, I love the smell of sharpened pencils, erasers, paper, binders, notebooks, pens...I love school. One of the reasons I became a teacher.

8) New fall clothes - It's always fun for me to go through my closet and see all of the clothes that I have not worn for half a year. And you always seem to need a few new things, even though you are not in school anymore.

7) Sweaters - I love sweaters.

6) Thanksgiving - I love getting together with family, eating turkey and catching up. One of my favorite holidays.

5) Halloween - I know that it is not a favorite for many Christians, but it has always been a fun holiday for me. I get to dress up and be someone different. For the past couple of years I have been a witch and a clown. The clown has stuck. I love being a clown. I am going to be one for a long time to come, I think.

4) Crunchy leaves - Who doesn't like walking through the leaves and hearing them crunch under your shoes and socks? It is just like being a kid again.

3) Pumpkin Pie - My favorite of all pies. I LOVE it!! Especially topped with lots of whipped cream! (I feel the pounds being added to my hips as I speak.)

2) Birthday - My birthday (Dec. 21) is actually the first official day of winter. We usually have had at least a snowfall or two by then. But many times it is a brown birthday. I love my birthday, I just wish it was further away from Christmas.

1) Time change - I love the "fall back" hours in October. I love the fact of waking up to darkness and having supper when it is dusk. Many people don't, but there is something about it. Perhaps the quietness of life, even though we are awake. Perhaps it is the idea of getting up with the sun. I have always been a morning person, which probably helps.

What season is your favorite? What do you like about fall? I'd love to know!!

Let's spend some time this season crunching the leaves. Shall we?

Tuesday Tunes 4: In Memory...

It is almost that time again when we remember the events of September 11, 2001. Lots of people have made tributes for this occasion. I thought I would pick one to share with you.

My heart continues to break everytime I remember that event. I remember exactly where I was, what I was doing, what the weather was like...I will not forget.



May God continue to be with those families who were affected and continue to be affected by this tragedy.

Weekend in Review: Nothing to Report

This weekend was just the same as every weekend Jonathan is on woship team. It flies by, you wake up and all of a sudden it is Monday. Where did the weekend go?

I am trying out this new blog template. What do you think? I really like the 3 columns, because it looks way less cluttered. I am not sure about it, though. We'll see.

Aidan went to Preschool this morning and Emma and I did our Gymboree class. We are all tired. Emma is sound asleep already and I just laid her down 10 minutes ago. Aidan could fall asleep, too, if he doesn't fight it too much.

I have my first Bible study tonight - Hallelujah! I have missed it a lot over the summer. Hopefully I will be able to reconnect with some of the ladies from last year, as well as make some new friends.

Hope you are all doing fine. It is beginning to feel like fall here. So much for global warming!! Leaves are on the ground in some places already!!

Blogthingy: Who Should You Vote For?

Your Issue Profile: 60% Obama, 40% McCain

Truth be told, you're not really satisfied with either of the candidates. You could vote for either of them. You are the typical coveted swing voter. You may want to narrow yourself down to a particular set of issues in order to pick your president. Or start looking at third party candidates. One of them might suit you better.

Should You Vote for Obama or McCain?

This is totally true. I don't think that either of them is a safe choice. I do like Obama. I think he has a lot of charisma. I think McCain is too old. I am not very liberal in my thinking, though. It is so hard to know what America needs right now. But, I think change is probably for the best.

What do you think?

Weekend Review: The Giants

Pastor Henry Schorr was back preaching on Saturday night. I love him so much as a preacher. His sermons stay with me throughout the week and I am constantly thinking about them. This week's was no exception.

He was talking about Caleb and how Caleb lived his life. The main passage was: in Numbers 14, which you can read HERE. The part he focused on this week was:

" 'If the LORD is pleased with us, he will lead us into that land, a land flowing with milk and honey, and will give it to us. 9 Only do not rebel against the LORD. And do not be afraid of the people of the land, because we will swallow them up. Their protection is gone, but the LORD is with us. Do not be afraid of them.' " Numbers 14:8-9

Caleb and Joshua were the only ones who believed that God could handle anything, including some "Giants" living in the Promiseland. He had rescued them out of Egypt, after all. What were a few giants to God?

The point is that as a believer, we need to be living in peace; laying down our giants and burdens in order that God can deal with them. We must believe that God can take care of them, instead of trying to take care of them on our own.

I know you are thinking: "Why is she sharing this with us?"

For the past little while, I have been struggling with the fact that I am not working. I spent 5 1/2 years and a ton of money in order to have a teaching career. Yet, I am not teaching. I know that I am doing what God has wanted me to do, but I sometimes feel like I will miss my career altogether if I don't work - even just a little bit. I feel like if I am not working than other people are taking my jobs. There will be nothing left for me when I want to return to teaching.

All of this came to a head this weekend. I love staying at home. I can't imagine anyone else raising my children. But, it is the beginning of the school year and I am, again, not working. I am going to get on the sub list, but even then I will only be working a little bit, and only if my dad is able to watch the kids.

Then my friend emails me this quote:

"Your profession is not what brings home your paycheck. Your profession is what you were put on earth to do. With such passion and such intensity that it becomes spiritual in calling." Van Gogh

I know that I am called to teach. And I am doing that, even though there is no money involved. I know that God is in control. Even though my career path seems to have taken a detour, God can handle the detours of this life. Thanks be to God for godly friends who continue to encourage me. I will perservere.

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Jeremiah 29:11

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.

Proverbs 3:5-6

Top Ten Fridays: Things Heard At VBS

And now, without furthur ado....

Top Ten Things Heard at VBS:

10) "As God's children we..." followed by various verbs including: share, give, love...

9) "Mommy, can I talk to the people?" as Aidan reaches for the microphone so he can talk to everyone in the sanctuary....Our little star!!

8) "Ranny!" as Emma runs after Granny in the church. She was all about Granny this week and is currently having a sleepover with Granny and Grandpa.

7) "I'll help Granny with the computer, Mommy!" as Aidan goes to the laptop and starts helping Granny with the powerpoint slides. He is a techno wizard.

6) "I'll wait until everyone is listening before I start..." as I wait for the kids to stop talking and listen to me as I talk at the front of the church. I have a lot of patience.

5) "Hands out, and up, then together and then put the apples in the basket" as we fold our hands to pray for the morning or for the rest of the day.

4) "Mommy, I'll sing and you do the tricks(aka actions)" as Aidan stands up besides me on the platform and sings the songs perfectly. I was NOT allowed to sing at this time because he could.

3) "Today's treetop critter is...."as I describe our little animal figurine the kids would get to take home from VBS each day.

2) "Let's find out what's for snack, Emma"...Emma: "Nack" as she toddles off to the kitchen leading the way. She ran up and down that church, putting miles on. Of course everyone loved her. Who wouldn't??

1) "How old is your son, Amanda?" as Aidan entertains everyone before and after the mornings with the microphone.

Some runners-up:

"This program is not good!"
"I don't want to organize next year!"
"I miss organizing this!"
"Every tree in the forest will join in the chorus..."
"Get your homeboy self ready!!"

All in all it was a great time, but I am wiped. My mom will be back to organizing it next year. The lady that did it this year, did a really good job for her first time...but said that my Mom could have her job back next year. She did offer to help, so that's good. We always need help. I may even tackle the dramas next year...

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend. I am going to be resting up. So tired....