Shopping for a washing machine....

Okay, I needed it since mine broke this week and it was time to bury the horrible thing. I have been telling Mark for the last two years the washer was going to die. I knew it. I know I will like having a nice new one, too. However, there are so many other things that I would have rather spent the money on - like Disney World.

As we were writing the check today for our washing machine, I said to Mark, I guess I won't be getting a laptop anytime soon. :(

Someone explain this to me. WHY is a new washing machine mine? I know that I am the one to USE the thing since I appear to be the laundry maid. But, honestly..... this isn't JUST for me. Yes, I picked it OUT because I am the one who does the laundry but the last time I looked less than 1/4 of the laundry was actually my clothing.

Oh, well. That's life. All of my piano teaching money is going towards this machine this month. Easy come - easy go. You know, there is a real blessing, or rather the realization of a blessing, in the breaking of this thing. Years ago, when my washing machine broke and Mark was in seminary, I got to wash CLOTHES in the bathtub for 3 months until we could get enough money together to buy a very used and old machine. That wasn't fun! So, this time I had to cancel a trip to Disney World but WE had the money to get a new machine.

Maybe, God wanted to get my attention and get me to realize that I am blessed. Blessed because I was able to purchase a new machine. Blessed because I have running water. Blessed because I have all of these appliances that act as my maids!

It was fun looking at all these new fancy machines; although, I couldn't in anyway justify spending nearly $2,000 on a set! I am amazed that people do! I will love my machine which was under $500.00 including delivery and shipping and we get the delivery refunded! wowhooo! I am also planning in about six weeks to buy the dryer that matches this washer and I will sell my dryer at that time.

Blessings,
Debbie

March Comes In Like a Lion!!!

Yep!!! It sure does. We lost our power last night at 2 am. Storms are all over the place. It was restored 7 hours later. Mark and Michael both had to go to into friends to shower this morning. I was THRILLED when the power came back on because it meant I had running water. For some reason, the electric pump on our well doesn't work without power. hehehe

Paul has decided to fish the past few day out back in our small, tiny lake or big pond. We call it a pond. He has been catching these pretty good size fish and then he throws them back into the water. I looked out the window - and the child left two coolers and a big plastic tub that he was putting the fish in yesterday. I am surprised that those thing aren't floating on top of the pond this morning with all the nasty weather. lol

I was desperate this morning for coffee. So, I dragged the grill out of the garage and lite the burner and put my tea kettle on to boil some water. I TRIED to drink instant coffee. Man, oh Man!!! Can we say "evil form of torture???" LOL It was about the grossest stuff that I have ever put into my mouth. Just plain old nasty.

Fortunately, during my coffee experience - that POWER was restored and I made myself a cup of coffee. I had called Mark at school, and he was drinking FRESH coffee and I was so jealous. Amazing how addicted I am to caffeine.

I have really been enjoying Paul this week. He has been doing this new math curriculum WITH understanding! He has been sweet and helpful this week. Washing my van, helping with laundry and he's cooked some entire meals. And, the best part was, he is turning into a good cook.

Michael has decided to run for Senate at his college. This is what his school calls the class representatives for his college government. He is turning in his petition today where he had to gather signatures. He also has an interview scheduled to be an Orientation leader when new students arrive in the fall. And, he's putting in an application to be an RA. I pray some, if not all, of these opportunities work out for him. He loves his college and that thrills me.

My new semester has started. I am going to TRY and fly with these next classes. I ended up with 31 credit hours completed last semester. I have to write two papers for my Ethics class and then take my Literature and Ethics protored exams. And... then I am in the School of Education. I am thrilled. Y'all will hear me shout when these three classes are completed. :)

Mark told me yesterday, that he has been feeling very blessed lately. He started naming his blessings and once again, I was humbled that this godly man asked me to marry him over 27 years ago. He sees in me things that I do not see. God is so good to me.

He told me that he thought about me and his life with me all of the time. I asked him, if when he thought of me, did he see that young woman he married, who was thin, had a perfect complexion and believed in people and had such an innocent faith?

He said that had saw me as I am today. A woman who has grown more beautiful, loving and who has filled his home with a faith in God and Christ. (I have GROWN... but not more beautiful.) He told me that when he thinks of me, he sees that he is fortunate and blessed. He said that he loves my intellect, wit, and kindness and then he went on the say, that I am so much more than that girl he married and that I thrill him.

Yes, God has blessed me by this man. I adore him. I am not worthy of him.

Blessings,
Debbie

February is a really short month!

Man, time flies as we get older and it flies ever faster when the month is only 28 days long. I can't believe that it is already 2 months since Christmas. We are already making summertime plans.

Sometimes, I think that we plan our lives away instead of enjoying and truly living each minute. We are always talking about the next event instead of stopping and being part of today. I wonder if we are living each day and week with great expectation and joy? Are we pleasing God? Are we seeking Him? Are we being loving to our family and not wasting our time? What will my children remember about me when they are older? Mom drove us crazy when getting ready for a trip or company? Or will they remember that Mom made our house a home and that she loved being with us?

I love the verse that tells us not to worry and I wish that I could truly incorporate that ability into my life and NEVER worry but always and only TRUST God.

Also, do we really wait to hear from God before we act? Do we weep over the lost or are we too busy being busy to really think about the lost?

What should be our passion?

Blessings,
Debbie

I may get to come up for air a little....

in regard to all of these papers for college that I have been writing. I have one good sized paper to write this week and then I will spend the next two weeks studying for a major exam.

I have been enjoying my experience at Western Governors University. I highly recommend it to those wanting to attend college online. They have excellent accreditation. Also, they are very tuition doable!! The classes require tons of research and writing but most of the communities are really helpful.

Paul still has a fever and now Michael is home sick from college today. He never misses classes. So, this is odd to have him home ill.

Two sickies don't make for a fun Valentine!

Well, I need to get to writing this paper.

Blessings to all,
Debbie

Sick one...

Man, this flu that Paul has really likes to keep a temperature high. He is so sick of being sick. I have noticed that lots of his friends from his youth group keeping calling his cell phone to check up on him. When I see the care that these young people have for each other, I know that Mark and I made the correct decision in allowing Paul to attend this church.

This morning I finished writing a 10 page paper for my Literature class. It was a long process. I usually do not spend this much time in writing a paper. I have also been making phones calls. I had to cancel Paul and my hair appointments for tomorrow because I cannot take Paul to the salon and risk getting our stylist sick. He might shave our heads that next time we go in! hehehe

I also had to call the music store to order more books for my piano students. The store owner ordered the wrong sets last week for three of my younger students. I also wanted to arrange bass guitar lessons for Paul. I think that I managed to set up lessons on Wednesday mornings at 9 am. I told the guy that this week was out due to Paul having the flu. He is supposed to call me back and confirm the lessons.

I have had a headache most of the day so far. I am going to check on Paul and try to soak in the tub for a bit and unwind.

I know that this blog is totally boring. I should change its name to: Debbie's Boring Blog.

Oh, here is a bit of information that some of you might could use. Mark and I decided to order food from Angel Food Ministries this month. Mark picked it up Saturday and we were really pleased. So, here's a link to their site in case anyone wants to check it out!

http://www.angelfoodministries.com/

Blessings,
Debbie

Today is Thursday...

Wednesdays are always long days with having to drive so far to church. It usually takes us 45 minutes on Sunday mornings but it takes an hour Wednesday night due to traffic. I sat in the back choir room during children's choir and prayer meeting (it didn't have any heat on) and read more of My Name is Asher Lev. That book is depressing me. I did attend choir rehearsal, though.

I also got that first paper started for my Literature class yesterday, too. I am having a difficult time getting everything in my thesis statement that I want to say.

Last night, at 10 PM, Lost returned with a new show!! It was good. I am not understanding why that blonde lady is so mean, though. And, what happened to her sister?

Splenda is acting all clingy. She has been following me around like a puppy dog. She is the strangest cat. I have been trying to brush her in the hopes of eliminating or at least reducing hair balls. Yuck. That is the grossest things about cats.

Paul told his friends that I used to be a baker. That child has a strange memory! LOL I did work in a bakery for a season when Mark was in seminary but Paul was only 4 years old. He told me that he wanted me to teach him how to be a really good cook. You know, it did make pastries, doughnuts, decorated cakes, pies, breads and all but I have never considered myself a baker. I didn't wear one of those hats!! LOL I hated getting up and being at work at 4 AM!!

Paul wants to cook hearty tasty real food. At least, that's what he's telling me. He wants to make a gumbo. I told him that I can't eat okra because I am so allergic to it. He told me that we would leave out the okra. I don't know if it's possible to make gumbo without okra? I mean, is that allowed????? I am going to have him cook dinner tonight. I am thinking a roast with the trimmings. I will try to come up with a fake gumbo recipe for the child. He wants to learn how to make several soups.

Back to tonight's menu. I am thinking a pot roast with cooked cabbage, potatoes, and carrots and something green. I wonder how serious the boy is about cooking. He loves to read recipes. Is that normal for a 14 year old? And, the likes watching the food network. lol

Michael has a major exam in his history class tomorrow. I am praying that he does pretty good. He needs to keep a B average in college to get the Hope next year. After he takes a course this summer, he'll have enough hours in Georgia schools to qualify for it.

Mark has a winter break coming up this month. He's off February 19 through the 23. I wanted to go to Florida to Disney World but that's not happening with all of the dental and medical expenses we are having right now. So, I guess this break will be boring.

Paul is upset with me because I am not letting him go to New Orleans to help with clean-up. I am worried that he would have a huge asthma attack down there because of the mold. His youth group is going down over spring break.

I need to get to reading this depressing book and work more on this paper.

Blessings,
Debbie

Another thought on Homeschooling....

I used to freak out if I realized that what I was trying to do with the kids in the way of certain curriculum or subjects wasn't working. It does kind of make me sick at the thought of spending more money to buy another curriculum. However, sometimes, we just have to bite the bullet. I need to try this and it's still cheaper than a tutor for this child.

I told my husband several weeks ago (when it was still January) that Paul was really having difficulty in math and that I needed to hire a tutor. Mark's comment was that he would try to teach Paul his math. Well, he hasn't spent one moment trying. I knew that he wouldn't. I told Mark that WE had to do something to help Paul with his math and that he hadn't tried teaching him at all over the past few weeks.

Honestly, I think that he meant too but for some reason he just doesn't help me school the boys. I have also put him in charge of setting up private bass lessons for Paul. I have reminded him for three weeks. I am going to call him - again, this morning - and see if he's done it. It made sense to me to ask him to set these lessons up since Mark is over at Brewton Parker every Monday and is surrounded by musicians. Again, he just doesn't think about it.

Well, now I am really off of here.

Blessings,
Debbie

February is here!!

I can't believe that we are already into the second month of 2007! This is going to be a busy month for me completing a few college classes. My new semester starts March 1.

I have decided to order Teaching Textbooks Pre-Algebra for Paul. I found a gal on VegSource that had the CD's for sale and I am managing to save a little money on them. But, it looks like that I will have to order the textbook new. This set is going to cost me $150.00! ugh. It had better be magical and get through to this child. He took that pre-assessment and is ready for Pre-Algebra.

We have church this evening and choir rehearsals (children and adult). Sunday evening the Brotherhood is doing a Valentine's Banquet. I hope that fun.

I have been reading the book My Name is Asher Lev. It's different. I need to finish it up today and start this paper that I am writing. I have already read Emma and parts of Huck Finn.

I am waiting on my literature textbook to arrive. I managed to find it used and only paid $40.00 for it as opposed to $80.00 plus shipping. I am selling these Critical Thinking textbooks to a friend who needs them for a class.

I have been trying to lose weight and really fell off the wagon the past two weeks. I am not pigging out but I have to cut WAY back to lose weight. My metabolism is so messed up.

I went to the eye doctor's last Friday and he has scared me a bit. He suspects that I could have angle glaucoma. The office made me an appointment with specialist before I left his office. I am praying that he is wrong. Lauri had a group of ladies from her church call me and they all prayed for healing and good sight. Such a precious group of gals.

Well, I need to get busy. It's a tad after 7:30 AM. I need to straighten up the house a bit and shower and then get Paul going on school. I also didn't get all of the laundry done on Monday so I need to work on that today, too. And, of course, I need to finish reading this book and try to get this paper started.

Oh, I had called the eye doctor's yesterday and he just called me back. Man, he called me back early. He said that right now, I do not have glaucoma. The pressure behind my eye isn't elevated. However, the space between my lense and eyeball is slightly narrow and that's why he is wanting a specialist to look at it. He told me NOT to worry at this point but that we have to keep a check on it because it could develop into glaucoma.

Now, I am really getting off of here, unless the phone rings again with some nice information.

Blessings to all,
Debbie

I have tried two other times to post recently....

And my post keep getting eaten! LOL

It's the last day of January. I can't believe how fast the month has flown by. Our family has been busy this month. Michael is back at Brewton Parker and has a very full load right now. Mark has stayed busy with his jobs - both at the schools and at the church. He is now playing with two groups associated with Brewton Parker. So, Mondays are really long for him. Paul is having difficulty in math right now. I am considering buying new materials for him and see if they help. I am looking at Teaching Textbooks Pre-algebra. I am staying busy teaching piano, teaching Paul and with my college classes. I will be getting done 31 hours this semester. That just thrills me; although, I wanted to get done 3 more hours. LOL

My semesters run for six months. However, life and holidays happen. I didn't get much done in Decemeber. My last day of this semester is Feb. 28. I have 9 more hours and then I start in the school of education. I am pretty happy with my pace.

Paul is a sick boy. His temperature shot up to 104.2 last night! Mark called Lee and he told us to bring him into the office this morning at 8 AM. He doesn't have strep but his white count is up. So, it looks to be a viral respiratory infection. His throat is raw and his ears are full.

Mark was told at Winds rehearsal Monday evening that there will be some band openings in the area for next year. Mark would like to teach just band and either just High School or Middle School not High School and Middle School Band and chorus. He would also like to have a larger band. This one is tiny.

Michael is thinking about changing his major to Art. A friend told me that Shorter Baptist College has a better Art degree than Brewton Parker. So, we are really praying about what God would have us to do.

Christmas 2006!!

This Christmas has been nice. Last night, we went and saw Paul as a shepherd in a live Nativity and then stayed for a lovely church candle light service. The evening was very Christ centered.

We came home and I prepared some appetizers and the family ate and talked and watched tv.

This morning was unrushed and I think that the boys like their gifts.

Here are a few photos! The first photo is our coconut cake! That's how the south gets snow on Christmas!! All of these photos are from Christmas eve. I haven't uploaded today's pictures yet.

Merry Christmas to ALL!!!

Christmas Eve's Eve......

Today has been a lazy day. I did get Mark's coconut cake baked. The icing is SO yummy!! Tonight we went to a Christmas musical at the Methodist church. It was an enjoyable production especially at such a small church.

I have to teach our Adult Sunday school class tomorrow morning - which I totally forgot about! My brain seems to take lots of vacations recently.

I feel a sadness coming over me this evening. It's like I am on the verge of buckets of tears and if I start crying, I may not stop. I wish that I wasn't teaching Sunday school in the morning. Normally, I love teaching but sometimes my emotions during this season run too high.

Man, this has turned into a depressing Blog!! I think that I'll hush until I can say something joyfilled!

Blessings,
Debbie

Wowhooo!! I had my piano student Christmas party.

I believe that the students all had a good time. They did a great job playing their pieces.

Now, Mark and I can begin to relax a bit from the pre-holiday rush. Mark had three performances with Brewton Parker college where he played the tuba. He directed the church cantata and children's choir and six (or seven) different groups from the High school and middle school. Of course, all of these groups represented a concert. He combined the Middle and High school concerts.

My best friend, Lauri and her kids are coming down on the 26th. I can't wait. Christmas day will be a just our family and I am looking forward to it.

Mark's mom had a stroke. She seems to be beginning to respond to therapy and we are hoping that we don't need to travel up to Tennessee over Christmas. We were there over Thanksgiving.


Here's the Christmas card picture of Paul.


Here's the Christmas card picture of Michael.

Merry Christmas!!!

It has been brought to MY attention........

That I need to update my Blog. Of course, it was done gently. I honestly didn't think that hardly anyone ever looked at it anymore. Oh, well.

Tomorrow is my Christmas piano recital for my student. It should be fun. My house isn't ready but it's only for the kids. :)

I will POST pictures of it tomorrow!!!!!!

Yes....I am still alive....

I have created a new board for Christian moms. My yahoo board just wasn't working anymore. The format was too hard to follow. So, I searched and found this site and then had my members vote on which board they liked best. :) It's been fun but a lot of work.

I have also enrolled back in college and I am working hard in school. I am attending Western Governors University which is an online accredited college.

I will try to write more SOON!

Blessings,
Debbie

Time for a post!!!

I have been busy the past two weeks. I started schooling Paul last week. We had school on Wednesday & Friday of last week and then started again yesterday. So, we have now officially completed 4 days of schooling. It's going pretty good. He is truly trying to be pleasant and keep a godly attitude.

I have been typing up an American History lecture for him daily and then he's answering questions from the BJU 8th grade history text. He is loving his Apologia General science - and so that's simply great. He's working hard in math and has a test tomorrow. Language Arts his is least favorite subject right now. He doesn't like the curriculum that I bought - but he will still have to use it.

I started teaching private piano yesterday. I am ONLY teaching one day a week. Mark has already had some more students asking him if I would take them on. But, I am already teaching to 7:00 PM on Monday nights. Paul came up to me late this afternoon and wanted to know WHEN I was leaving to teach. I told him that I was only teaching ONE day a week. He was happy about that news.

I have been doing a liquid type fast this week. I have survived 3 days. I am hoping to accomplish a few things during this fast. I want to jump start some weight loss but I am also trying to hear more clearly from God. I haven't decided how long my fast will last. I am eating smoothies, juices, soups, and small milk shakes. I am always amazed that I can totally stop chewing BUT I have problems staying on a regular reducing diet. I think that I am addicted to chewing. LOL

So, this is my little boring life right now.

Blessings,
Debbie

Michael's room

This room has a horrible paint job but he's going to have to live with it for a while.

I love the one of Michael sitting at his computer.

Photos of Paul's room

This is Paul's room. I thought that I had better take advantage of him being on a youth retreat to get a few shots of his room while it was clean! That one picture is looking into his side of the bathroom. That's his sink. If you continue into that room, his closet is opposite his vanity and the tub and toilet area are located in the middle room. Michael's sink and closet are on the other end.

Blessings,
Debbie

Sons....

Last night, my husband had a dinner meeting and so that just left Michael, Paul and me eating my nice dinner. I made one of Paul's favorites since he was heading out this morning to go on a Youth Retreat. I was kind of sad that Mark wasn't here enjoying the meal with us but the dinner time conversation got a little interesting.

First, the brothers were arguing (not yelling but having some sort of disagreement). I said, "Please, if you two can't find something civil and kind to say to each other then don't say anything.

Amazingly, they looked at me and stopped their fussing. Both begun commenting on the wonderful meal, asking questions about when their dad was going to get home. The conversation lagged a tad, and then Paul said, "You know that girl, S (insert name), that I talk to on the phone? I really like her."

Managing to keep my silence, I looked at him and smiled. I have learned if I begin to ask to many questions with this kid, he stops talking.

Paul continued on, telling me that she had the bluest eyes that he had ever seen. He described how they change colors depending on her mood. When S is happy, her eyes are bright and a light blue rimmed in gold but when she's deep in thought or upset, her eyes turn a deep blue, sort of navy.

Man, I wanted to scream, JUST how much have you gazed into this girl's eyes to wrap so poetic a description? However, instead I remarked that he had always loved blue eyes. He nodded his head, smiled and told me that he loves to stare into her eyes so he can determine her moods.

As Paul continued raving about this girl, his loving brother started relaying one side of Paul's telephone conversation with her. At first, Paul proceeded to go into great detail everything that S had said in response to his questions and statements. Lots of information was shared when a light bulb seemed to go off above Paul's head.

Paul couldn't believe that Michael had heard him TALK to her on the phone. Michael begins to explain since their rooms connect that hearing your loud mouth is pretty easy. Younger brother, becomes indignant, and claims that Michael has invaded his privacy and gossiped about him to mom!

Finally, they both look at me, as the only high court official in our home since Mark wasn't present. Paul demanded that I quote to Michael a Bible verse that bans eavesdropping. Even though, I wanted to say, "I WANT your older brother to LISTEN to ALL your conversations and report back to me," I refrained. Stifling a laugh, I told my son that I couldn't think of such a Bible verse. I said the Bible does say we shouldn't gossip but that I didn't think that Michael thought he was gossiping since Paul began the conversation about S.

Paul still looked quite wounded and hurt. So in my VAST wisdom, I told them that it would be impossible for Michael to never hear Paul talk on the phone BUT if he was privy to one of Paul's conversations that he shouldn't share what was said without Paul's consent. ugh

Well, that satisfied both of them. I then added that I really liked Michael's input into our conversation to which older brother laughed and younger brother rolled his eyes.

Blessings,
Debbie

Packing up a son!

I am so grateful that God has allowed me to raise Michael and Paul. I have loved watching them grow and mature. Both of my sons love Christ and are very kind to others. That blesses me to see.

Paul is going on a retreat tomorrow. He's leaving at 7 AM and will not be back home until Monday evening. Now, this boy has been going to Boy Scout camp for the past two years but his dad has always attended because Mark was a leader in troop. However, my baby will not have mom or dad with him for this Youth retreat. It's like another right of passage. I know he's more than ready to go and fly on his own but I still see that little boy whose hand used to be so small. I remember a time when he wanted mommy as his constant companion but those times are nothing but sweet cherished memories. He's growing up. That once small hand that could get lost in my hand is now bigger than mine.

I am still needed but not to rock him to sleep and go outside and catch butterflies but as the taxi service, cook, or the laundry maid! This morning, I have been doing his laundry for this retreat. A huge sleeping bag fills the washer. T-shirts and jeans slow turn in the dryer. I want his stuff to smell clean and remind him of home and his mom.

I worry. I worry that he'll have an asthma attack and ignore it. I worry that he'll get hurt white water rafting. I just worry. "God has not given us a spirit of fear but of love, peace and a sound mind," plays over in my head as I ready his belongings. That scripture sinks in and settles my heart.

I want to tell my baby not to go but rather just to stop and be still. And, let me cement into my mind this moment in his life which is all too quickly stepping over the realm of childhood into manhood.

Well, the mom (or rather the maid) needs to fold some laundry. There has been enough reflection on the past. Today is a new day and with God's grace, I will rejoice as I watch this son turn into a godly young man.

Blessings,
Debbie

Pressing

I heard the best message today on television from Joyce Meyers. It was about pressing past our feelings and emotions and looking at ourselves when someone irritates us instead of expecting to change them.

Basically, she was saying that we need to discover why we are angry instead of always looking to blame the other person. Of course, it's hard to look at our own hearts. She brought up several situations that were funny but they hit home.

She talked about how some people don't like up and joyful people. If they feel bad or serious, then golly, everyone else should be serious, too. She also hit upon those with jealousy issues, or feelings of insecurity. The message was great and I have thought about it a lot today.

Something, that I have always told my children when treated poorly by someone, is to kill that person with kindness! Say nice things to them. Help them when they need help. Be kind. And, most importantly pray for that person. I have told them, the point is NOT to change that person and make them like you BUT the point is for you not to allow bitterness to take root in your heart. Only the work of the Holy Spirit can change the other person, but we are called to display the image of Christ.

That is easy advise to give and very hard advise to live.

Blessings,
Debbie

Small bits of thankfulness

This morning my husband and I were chatting after our Bible time. He told me that he had slept soundly - that he even dreamed. I asked him what he dreamed about and he told me band. LOL Then, he went on to say that he didn't have to even get up in the night to use the bathroom. I responded that neither did I!

How funny!! I never thought that I would be grateful for that particular thing NOT occuring. Aging isn't for whimps! The surprising thing is when I look at this man, I still see the man that I loved as a 20 year old! Yet, here we sit, talking night time bathroom habits while sipping on our coffee.

Blessings,
Debbie

Am I delusional or what?

Today, I decided to bake hamburgers buns, cinnamon rolls and pan rolls. As I was slaving away baking using my KitchenAid Mixer to do the kneading, my relatively new Whirlpool oven to do the baking, standing in my air conditioned kitchen, I thought, "Wow!!! This is just like Little House on the Praire."

Snicker. Sometimes, I just have to laugh at myself. Can you imagine what Laura would have thought of our easy lives? Yet, we complain that we don't have enough. I have always said that I could be like that Proverbs woman if I had servants to order around. But, what I have is really just as good! I have appliances. I have never had to worry about one of my children dying from a childhood disease. I have never HAD to walk anywhere unless I chose to walk. If I decide to sew, I have a wonderful sewing machine. I have never had to weave cloth to make my family's clothing.

Yeah, boy.... my life is just like Little House on the Praire.

I have often wondered if I didn't live in such a wonderful time, would my family have suffered from want? Would I have worked hard and provided beautiful clothing, wonderful gardens filled with bounty? Would I have slaved on wash day, hauling water from a creek?

So, today, in my little mind, I had my sweet delusion of being a pioneer mom but I thankfully rejoiced that God allowed me to be born into a world of modern inventions!

Cinnamon rolls anyone?

Blessings,
Debbie

Old Wedding pictures.....

I had to hunt for pictures of my parents today for National Missing and Exploited Children. They are going to do age progressions and needed some better photos.

This one is Mark and me.
This one was made at my house. It's me and my sisters.



Man! Looking at those pictures brings back a flood of memories. One of those being that my eyes look bigger when I am thinner. LOL I can't believe how young we looked and I remember all of our hopes and dreams. Some of those dreams were stolen when my parents kidnapped two of our precious children; however, God has kept out feet from falling and put in our lives and hearts new hopes and dreams.

Anyway, once upon a time, I was a brunette, I was thin, and I was naive.

Blessings,
Debbie

I am SO excited!!!

Being the so smart gal that I am (NOT) after only over a year or so of blogging, I have finally figured out how to ADD links to my sidebar. I have added three friends' Blogs! How totally cool is that! I know that everyone is impressed with me. That is me at my computer looking so computer smart. Now, if I could add music. Blueberry has inspired me!

Blessings,
Debbie

This was fun!!!

What Type of Homeschooler Are You?

Martha Stewart No project is simple for you, everything is very involved; lace, ruffles, and flowers make it a good thing. Your curriculum is heavy on fine arts: art appreciation/recognition, historical architecture, music, creative writing, and literary classics. If your students absorb a little math and science along the way, so much the better. Visit my blog: http://www.GuiltFreeHomeschooling.blogspot.com
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A few more pictures of the house!

I finally got some more pictures of the house - without boxes!

I am going to add a couple MORE pictures. I have to show everyone my red mixer! LOL

Blessings,
Debbie

Thoughts on worth...

My sweet husband has a Master degree in Church Music and has already been accepted into a doctoral program. I have always been extremely proud of him because I saw the sacrifice that it took for him to complete that seminary degree. Plus, the degree was an indication of work and commitment.

Often, when I compared myself to him, I would wonder why he married me and felt unworthy. I based this worth on my lack of degree. I have tried to complete my degree so many times in our marriage and then life happens and my schooling is interrupted.

I was asked to apply for a teaching position in a Christian school a few weeks ago. I told the folks who asked me that I didn't have my degree. The school's policy was to hire only 4 year degreed people. However, I was asked to still submit my resume. I thought, this will be embarrassing but felt compelled to go ahead and put my experience down on paper.

While I have worked outside the home during our marriage most of my experience comes from inside my doors or ministry that I have done over the years. As I started remembering all that I had done the resume grew to where I wasn't totally mortified to let someone read it.

Here's copy of what it included:

~~~~~~~~~
Objective:
Elementary Classroom Teacher

Experience:
15 years of home educating my sons

Taught an extremely dyslexic child how to read and write raising his reading level from a non-reader to low fourth grade in one school year

Have spoken at homeschool seminars on types of learning styles and curricula choices

Taught ESOL to migrant workers in KY

Taught and supervised ESOL and Laubach, a literacy program, for a minor league baseball team (Texas Rangers) in Punta Gorda, FL

Piano and voice teacher in FL for six years

Taught at VBS Training for Concord Baptist Association in
Murfreesboro, TN 1981 and Peace Rive Baptist Association in FL, 2002

Wrote devotions for a monthly Christian newspaper

Wrote articles for Boy Scouts events, Cotillion balls, and Middle and High
School Band concerts for the local newspaper.

Certifications, Education and Training:

Oakland High School (graduated 1976)
Middle Tennessee State University (1976-78)
South Florida Community College (2006)
Certified in ESOL through Baptist Association in Rome, GA (1991)
Certified in Laubach through Baptist Association in Rome, GA (1991)
Attended BJU homeschool week conference two different years and sat under the writers of their various curricula (1990 & 1998)
Trained at Grace Ministries International in Christian counseling -
Two day workshop followed by Five day Conference. (1999)


Awards and Honors:

High School: Beta Club, National Honor Society, Majorette, Student Council, various district awards in theater, Thespian, Math honor society, French Honor society, student directed one acts and musicals, Beta Club officer
College: President’s List last semester at SFCC with a 4.0 GPA

Personal Statement:

I have served for many years along side my husband at various churches where he served as Minister of Music, Youth, Education or Senior Pastor. I have led women’s Bible studies, written lessons and taught Adult Sunday school classes, led Children’s choirs, Mission Friends, and taught Senior High Sunday school. I have served as Committee Chairman for Cub Scouts, performed in musicals at area churches, done Community Theater, helped to organize outreach events with over 200 in attendance, and completed Faith training. I have been a volunteer worker for the Republican Party. I was pursuing my degree in Elementary education which has been interrupted due to my husband’s taking the position of Middle and High School Band director at Montgomery County. I am considering my options as to where to complete my degree at this time.

My youngest son is 13 and will be an eighth grader for this school year. My husband and I feel that this will be our last year to homeschool him because we are considering sending him to a Christian High school to complete this part of his education before he attends college.

I understand many special needs since I have had experience with learning disabilities in teaching my older son. My older son is now 23 and has been attending college for the past few years with a GPA of 3.0. We graduated him from homeschool high school when he was 19 and he chose to take a year off before attending college. While school is a challenge for him, I take extreme pleasure in the fact that he has already achieved more education than the professionals thought was possible for him when he was in public school. He attended public school for kindergarten and first grade. We were told that he would never be able to learn to read and write, graduate High School or sit in a college course. But, with God’s loving guidance, His supply of literary training for me, and Michael’s perseverance to overcome, our son has proven to the professionals that their testing and assessment of his skills were wrong.

I believe that our greatest gift to children is seeing them with the Father’s eyes and not through a test. We serve a great God who desires the best for His children. When I started home schooling my son, my prayer was that he would learn to read and comprehend the Word of God. God has more than answered that prayer. This past year, he won an award in Creative writing at his college.

The goal in education should be to help each child realize who he is in Christ. The verse: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” should be written on the foreheads of all students. Academics should be strongly emphasized but knowledge without God’s wisdom is vain. I believe that teachers should demonstrate a high calling in their lives to seek after God by living a life that acknowledges his authority and grace.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


After I turned in my resume, I was then asked to complete an application. Then, I was called to interview with the principal. She told me that she wanted to hire me to teach a class of 20 second graders. I was really astounded! The next step was an interview with the board.

In the meantime, my 13 year old son, wasn't handling the prospect of me working full-time. I finally trapped him and got him to talk to me and his dad. And, made a decision that the job could wait until I was done homeschooling Paul.

I called the principal and told her my decision. She was extremely understanding and told me that she has had to make the same choice in her life in regards to her children. She also told me that the school would be interested in me next year if I still wanted to teach!

The Chairman of the board called me later on that day, and told me that they were highly interested in me and asked if I would reconsider allowing the board to interview me. He told me that he was afraid since the board had taken to long to interview me, that I was thinking my lack of a four year degree was a problem. He assured me that they had checked on the legality of hiring me and that they could. He told me that all of them honestly felt that my life experiences made me the best person for this position - degree or no degree.

I cannot tell you what that did for my self-esteem.

But, the decision that I finally made was to continue to homeschool Paul and work on my degree.

Then, yesterday while at my husband's school, his Asst. Principal approached me about teaching some children piano lessons. I really didn't want to start teaching children in my home, again. So, I asked about using the bandroom (this is a public high school) on Monday afternoons at the school. I told her if she could help me line up 6 to 8 students that I would drive over to the school and teach them. She was thrilled and doesn't see a problem with me using the school for lessons!!! How cool is that!

So, here's my take on value. We are to do WHATEVER God puts in front of us with diligence and commitment. And, in due time, God will lift us to where He desires. A degree (I still want mine)or a job title shouldn't be the only objective in our life but being all that the Father desires and designs for our life.

We have made many a sacrifice along the road to homeschooling our boys. But, in the end, looking back down the road, I see God's hand. I tell others to look at who they are through God's eyes; yet, I forget to do that in regards to myself. Also, all of the ministry that I have done in the past has helped to mold me into the person that I am today. Ministry, especially where there is no pay, no glory, just work, can get difficult. Often, we can wonder WHY we are serving. We must keep our eyes on the goal that God has put before us which is to love Him and His children.

This lengthly post is trying to say basically one thing, "God will lift us up when we least expect it." Titles, positions, and paychecks can be enticing but in the end, doing the Will of God is all that matters. Our worth is found only in Him.

Blessings,
Debbie

Sunday evening.....

We visited First Baptist, again, this evening. We had a really nice time tonight. The Minister of Music, who has been at this church for 32, is moving into a different position, Exec. Asst. Pastor. Tonight the church had a special service to remember all he has done at his ministry. It was precious.

Afterwards, there was a fellowship. We chatted with lots of folks and some of the staff at the church. We have decided to try it again on another Sunday morning. Mark and I are really hoping to find a Sunday school class that we like. LOL

Paul is getting highly involved with the Youth at a Methodist church here in town. It's youth week all week at this church. The youth do service projects every morning all week, like raking yards, painting at the church. And then in the afternoon and evenings, they meet for fun stuff. Paul is pretty excited about the week. Two week from now, he is going on a retreat with this group and white water rafting. (be still my heart, that kind of scares ME!!!)

I'll try and post more pictures of my house tomorrow.

Blessings,
Debbie

The move is complete!

Here are a few pictures of my new home. I am so grateful to be back in the lovely state of Georgia! Life seems to have moved forward without skipping a beat.

We have Michael just about enrolled in college. He has applied at Brewton Parker which is a small Baptist college. Mark is working on getting financial aid at this point and Michael has applied for some student loans.

Paul has made several friends. He has gotten active in a Methodist Youth group. The kids that we are meeting are all sweet and great. God really answered my prayer about sending Paul friends who are Christians and active in their church.

Mark has orderd and received the music for the High School marching band. He's written the first drill. This is a really small marching band. I am praying that he can grow it!

I am looking at options as to where I should attend college this coming year. Also, I was approached about teaching at a local Christian elementary school. I have put my application in for a second grade position and I am being interviewed this week.

I am really seeking God's will in all of this. I think that I would love teaching in a Christian school; however, I need to figure out exactly how this will effect Paul's schooling for this year. I have most of his curriculum ordered for his eighth grade year and he wants to homeschool this year, too. I am wondering if they hire me, if they will allow me to bring Paul a few days a week to the school and if Mark can carry him a couple of days, too.

I don't think that Paul would want to be here at the house all day - alone. :o(

But, I believe if this is going to happen then God will work all things out to the good.

I love my house. We are enjoying the floor plan except the cooking area in the kitchen is just too small. We are constantly getting in each other's way!

We have been visiting area churches and that is kind of cool. We never get to do that because usually Mark is on staff at a church and that's where we attend.

I am going to do some laundry and general cleaning. I want my house looking pretty for the fourth.

Blessings,
Debbie

Sunday Morning.....

It's a beautiful day outside. Mark is holding church in the living room. But, I am sitting here in the breakfast room at the computer. I think that I over did it this week. I am extremely tired and last night I noticed that the glands in my neck are swelling - again! Of course, Mark is now worried about me. He has told me that I cannot lift or do anything today. I cannot get mono, again. It looks like we will be moving around June 5 instead of the end of the month like we had planned.

I think that I am going to drop all of my classes. I am going to try to study for the first geology test and see if I can take it on Monday or Tuesday. I really don't see anyway that I can get the Pyschology class done and pack before we move.

Anyway, my sweet husband, didn't want me coming into church this morning. He doesn't want me to rush around or do anything today. I get so mad at my body when it decides to act sick! Honestly, I do not understand why I get mono over and over again.

I am seriously thinking about trying to go TOTALLY vegetarian after we move for 3 or 4 months and see if my health improves. I have got to get healthy and STAY that way. I may even go ahead and buy a wheat grinder, too.

Mark thinks that I do too much - but he never says anything until after the fact. I knew this week was going to be hard on me.

I washed probably 10 huge loads of clothing to sell at the garage sale and hardly NONE of it sold. I didn't get everything sized - but I did have general sizes together and boys or girls stuff seperated and everything smelled good and looked nice. I think that I needed to display it differently. I had all the children's clothing in NINE of those clear plastic containers. Oh, well. Mark is going to haul it down to a ministry. We made about $318.00.

Blessings,
Debbie

Oh, one more thought....

I decided that I needed a scripture today. So, I just grabbed up my Bible and started looking through. I turned to Galatians and just read:

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. And those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its passion and desires. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another."

Those are probably good verses for me to meditate on this week. I can get overwhelmed with responsibilities and life at times. I tend to lose my peace and gentleness. I can get short and abrupt. Also, I can lose my self-control in the area of food. When I am feeling overwhelmed, I tend to eat.

Granted, I have much to do this week but I want to do my work joyfully and not grudgingly. I want to exhibit gratefulness! I am blessed to have the work to do. I am blessed that God thinks me worthy and able.

Here's the thing that I struggle with: "be in the world but not of the world". Keeping one with the Spirit. When the physical world is keeping us so bound and busy, how do we truly spend time with our God? That is where I fail.

Mark and I read scripture and pray in the morning but I find that I am NOT in the word - just me and God. I find that I do not take the time to hear His quiet voice. I need that time alone with God. I can get so busy that I forget the best.

So, I am going going to think on Galatians 5:22-25 today. I am going to wear those scriptures on my forehead.

Blessings,
Debbie

A Busy Week Ahead...

I just realized that this is going to be ONE really busy week. I teach piano lessons Monday through Wednesday this week. I put all my Thursday students on Monday because Thursday is my studio's recital. I am basically ready for the recital on Thursday. I have the programs printed up, the certificates completed, and the metals and trophies ordered and arrived. Thursday, I will run out and get balloons to use as decorations and to give to the students.

My husband also wants to have a yard sale Thursday through Saturday this week. I have tons of boxes that he has pulled out of the attic to now go through. I am going to have the guys bring tables to the covered porch and start putting stuff out tonight and cover everything with sheets to keep them clean. I am going through bags of clothes - washing and sorting and sizing for the sale. I really dislike holding garage sales. But, we need to get rid of some of this stuff before we move the end of June.

I also have enrolled in two college courses - geology and psychology. I need to be studying this week and writing some papers. I guess, I will be busy.

Next week, we are going to attempt to go to Georgia for my best friend's son high school graduation. We got up there for her oldest son's two years ago and I really do not want to miss Aaron's. I love her children like my own.

I guess I need to get myself in gear. I have done some grading this morning of Paul's school work and went over some things with him. This is the last week of public school and so he wanted to go early today (he's in band) to see his friends in the eighth grade band. So, I sent him with school work to do on own his today.

I am now going to put more laundry in, start some bread, and do a little general straightening and then start on those boxes. JOY! Maybe tonight, I can get some studying done. We shall see.

Blessings,
Debbie

My Husband

This is a photo of my sweet husband with some of his band students last night. This was his last concert at the middle school where he teaches because he has taken a position in GA that pays nearly $17,000 more a year and where the housing is actually affordable. This decision has been difficult to make since he loves this Middle School Band position. Last night, his eighth grade band made a presentation to him. It left me in tears as well as the students. It also choked my husband up, too.

I use the word love so loosely. I love chocolate. I love Sci-fi. I love Disney. But, those loves are not really loves.

When I say, "I love my husband," something, wells up in me that is not only an emotion but a choice. I love this man. I adore him. But, more than that emotion is a respect. I respect him, deeply. No, he is the absolute worse in picking out gifts or planning trips. He drives me crazy with his packratty nature. Sometimes, I have questioned some of his financial decisions (not because he was making a selfish decision but just some of his choices for our family). I can't stand it when he eats vanilla ice cream with (gross) peanut butter. And, he has no taste in clothes. But, this is one of the most honorable men that I have ever met or known. I respect his character, his faith in God and Christ, his deep devotion for his family, and his commitment to his jobs. He is always honorable.

I lament that fact that my parents stole so much from our family. They nearly destroyed us but my husband's faith in the truth of the scriptures held us together. I was waiving, falling, walking without sight. But, he kept his mind upon the nature of God's character and not the circumstances of having kidnapped children. This man is amazing.

As our family began to grow new hearts, God's call upon our lives seemed evident and we returned to seminary minus two beloved children but with an adopted child in our hearts and family. Again, I saw a strength in my husband as he worked two jobs and went to seminary full time. He graduated with honors. He was lucky to get three hours of sleep a night but he still graduated with honors. I was so proud of him. I was so blessed to call him my husband.

Then, we left our part-time church and took a full-time ministry position at a church in KY. Once, again, my husband gave his all. He worked and planned but most importantly, he loved the church, the people. However, we were serving with a Senior pastor who wasn't all together moral. We caught him with another woman out of town. And, from that moment on, this man set out to destroy my husband.

We left that church and took a position in FL. My husband and this pastor became friends. Mark had much respect for the pastor but the church fired the pastor on a pack of lies and slander. My husband didn't support the decision but began working like a mad man trying to keep the church from falling apart. Problems arose with a youth minister. This man was preaching from the pulpit on Sunday mornings about things like peeing in a pot and the size of Dolly Parton's breast (except he used a different word). My husband went to the youth pastor and told him that language like that shouldn't be used from a pulpit. The youth guy went to the deacons and told them that my husband had threatened him! Good grief. So, the deacons called Mark in for a meeting where they kept saying, "C said you said this and this." Mark told them that wasn't true but refused to recount a private conversation. Being a small town that loves gossip, these people just couldn't believe it. Mark told them, "I could say anything just as C. can say anything. All you have is my word against his. None of you were there and all I am telling you is that I didn't threaten him (this is laughable, especially if you knew my gentle husband). However, he did address some of his choices for things to include in sermons. To this, my husband was told that they liked the youth guy's words because it just showed them that they weren't so bad and that they liked having a pastor who was just one of the boys!

Again, we left. There is so much more that went on behind the scenes. People were slandering me saying things that I had supposedly said or did, and I didn't even know who they were. We were so hurt. This continued for years - even after we LEFT the church. These people were so evil.

Moving forward, when you have no money, you can't move. So, Mark began taking work. He dug graves. He took jobs painting houses. He was substitute teaching. And, he was trying to plant a new church out in the boonies. After about one and a half years of nearly no income, and our finances and bills screaming at us, he took a position at an elementary school teaching 5th grade.

The students, parents, other faculty, and administration loved him. Then, the middle school band positions opened up after two years of teaching 5th grade, and Mr. Bremer hired my husband. Mark had so enjoyed this position. But, Charley and the other hurricanes has caused the cost of property in this little country town to skyrocket. All the propperty owners have gotten extremely greedy. Our rent (and the price of the house we were wanting to buy) shoot up as well. Finances have been difficult - and that's putting in mildly.

So, Mark decided to put out resumes in GA for Music teaching positions. He has taken a new position.

Back to WHY I am writing this book, last night was his last concert at the middle school. This morning his principal sent this letter out to all of the faculty.


To all:

As I just finished listening to the band performance, I felt the need to come back to my desk to write this email before my thoughts escaped.

First of all I thought how fortunate DMS is to have such a fine chorus and band program. Not many middle schools can make such a claim. Both performances made me, and I’m sure every parent proud.

But I could have waited and emailed such a message out tomorrow. It was as the 7th and 8th grade band was preparing to give their final performance for Mr. Baskin; three girls came up to give a small speech. There was no microphone, so you couldn’t hear all the words, but you didn’t need to. You could see the love and affection in the faces of all the students as the girls were speaking. It was the quick wiping of the eyes as the students sat up straight and gave the best final performance they could give that told the story.

As they played their final song I thought back on Mr. Baskin for these past three years. I couldn’t recall a time he complained about a student. I couldn’t recall a time he complained about his job. Always professional, always willing to help. A band teacher teaching AR reading or running the SME lab half the time should have at least gotten a few mumbles but I didn’t even get a “You owe me one”.

I wanted to run up and say to the crowd, but knew I couldn’t:


“Mr. Baskin, not only a great band leader, but a great leader and mentor of youth”.


That’s probably what the girls said also.

How fitting this is Teacher Appreciation Week. We are fortunate to have many “Mr. Baskin” at our school. I appreciate what all of our staff does for our school and unfortunately I do not say it enough. Enjoy the luncheon and “Thank You” to everyone.

Dave Bremer

When I read these words, I wept. I wept because my husband's faith in God is showing to be true and worthy. God is restoring his reputation. While, I get so frustrated at what is happening in our Southern Baptist churches, and begin to think that God doesn't see us - He restored to my husband that which the enemy had taken - his dignity, self-worth, and reputation.

Blessings,
Debbie

Quiet mornings......

I have been sitting here this morning, quietly sipping coffee and considering getting a bowl of granola cereal. I know that I should get Paul up and going but I am enjoying not having to rush out of the house this morning for college classes. Mark and I read the Bible and prayed and he left for work. I have been lost in thoughts. Thoughts of all the things that I should be doing right now. My list never seems to get smaller. I don't think that I have the ability to enjoy accomplishments. I am always looking ahead.

At least, I recognize this about myself. When my children were little, I would sneak into their rooms and watch them sleep. How do you cement into your mind those precious, innocent faces? I used to lament the fact that I was so busy taking care of three stairsteps, that I was missing moments of their lives. And, back then I worried more about everything. A middle child and born people pleaser can be a curse at times. It took me about 40 years to finally realize that I can't please everyone and it's not my job to make everyone happy.

This morning, the house is quiet. A soft, gentle, and much need rain is falling upon my roof. A sense of comfort is filling up my house. Rain. Amazing what the sound of drops of rain can do for one's spirit.

I am taking two college classes for the next six weeks. It's one of those short terms. I started working on them last night. June 17 is the deadline date to have all of the papers and tests completed. I tried to get Mark to tell me when we were moving this summer. He kept saying, "The end of June or first of July." Last night, I noticed that he's getting moving van quotes for June 15!

The phone just rang and broke my solitude. I guess I am done writing.

Blessings,
Debbie

This is a picture of my precious 13 year old son. He is on the left side and has the long black hair. Somedays, precious and 13 year old are words that do not belong together.

He is not happy that we are moving to Georgia. He has lived here for 7 years and Florida is his home, now. He is an extremely bright, funny, and outgoing kid and I know that he will make friends after we move. However, convincing him of that fact is another issue entirely.

Back to the photo. I made that last night at the Cross-over ceremony for the Webelos coming into Scouts. Paul WAS elected to be Scout Partrol Leader (think that's the name) for next year. But, we are moving. However, (and this is cool), since Mark and Paul will meet the troop at camp in the Georgia mountains in July, the Scout Master, wanted Paul to attend all of the meetings and still act as the Partrol Leader for our troop this summer at camp.

Blessings,
Debbie

This semester is almost OVER!!!

I am thrilled that I only have a few weeks left of college. My gpa for my Statistic class is 95.75% and for my Government class 100+% !!!!!! I have to finish up one more project in computer and one more set of busy work homework and take one more test. I have to take one more test in Marine biology. I have As in both of those classes, too. oh, my Government professor told me to come take the last test but that I could just blow it off! LOL

I believe that Mark has definately decided to take the teaching position in central GA. So, we have a large move ahead of us this summer. We also have to locate housing.

We are busy but life is going pretty good right now!

Blessings,
Debbie

Back in college....

I decided to go back to try and finish my degree after starting nearly three decades ago. It's been fun. I was supposed to have started in the fall, but my 13 year old son, ended up with a severe asthma attack. I put school on hold until January. I am discovering that my braincells have remembered how to study for a test, write research papers, and get the tasks completed.

I love it. My favorite subjects are Marine Biology and American Government. I told my husband that I have never really thought how life science and political science could fit together until recently. I want to be a lobbyist when I grow up. :o) Seriously.

I am also afraid that I could be turning into a Democrate. sigh Of course, that will not happen. Perhaps, I'm a liberal Republican?

Well, later. Maybe, I'll try to blog more often.

Blessings,
Debbie

Pictures of Friends!

The is Dee and Matt and the new baby. They are so sweet. Mark enjoyed metting Matt.



Me, Dee and the new baby girl!



Michael, Glenn, Paul, Mark, Rachel, and Taylor at New Echota.



Lauri's and my kids. I love the new Do's on Lauri's boys. LOL



This is my friend Deborah and four of her Seven children!!

Isn't over 40 fun?

Lately, I have been getting lovely emails asking me if I have bladder control problems. I always delete them and basically think, "I may be fat, have age spots, have active mono, Chronic Fatigue Syndrone and I might have Hodgkin's disease BUT at least, I don't pee my pants." Click, delete and those dang emails vanish.

Yesterday, I was fixing to take my shower and I sneezed. I sneeze all of the time. That's not unusual. But, this time it was different. I peed. I had NO control. I peed. I wanted to scream. I did say a quick prayer, "Please God, I don't want to buy diapers for me."

I told my 22 year old son want happened later in the day when we were going to the bank. His sweet reply, "Mom, that's just to gross and to much information. Change the subject."

I told my husband what happened. He stifled a laugh as I gave him an evil eye. He added, "Well, honey. I am sure that it was a one time incident. Don't worry about it."

I told him, "Mark it's happened TWICE today."

His loving response was, "Oh, hmmm, maybe you are waiting to long to go to the bathroom."

grrrrrr

We went to the associational office and I told the secretary (she is a friend) about me sneezing and peeing. She laughed and said, "Well, join the club."

I told my best friend about it last night on the phone. Lauri sighed and told me she's been sneezing and peeing, too!!! But, she warned me that it can also happen when you LAUGH really hard.

Growing older has it's moments. I mean what will I get to do - trade in sanitary supplies (that you only need for 5 days a month) for Extra large diapers????

At least I have figured out why my grandmother always had such a large pocketbook. It was to carry her diapers. I am thinking that I should carry an extra pair of panties along with a zip lock bag in my pocketbook.

So, am I having fun, yet? NOT. But, I am developing a sick sense of humor.

Debbie

Our July 4th, 2005

Yesterday was The 4th of July. It was extremely HOT. Mark and Paul worked at the rodeo from 9 AM until 3 PM. They were both extremely tired when they got home due to the heat and sun. Michael worked until 5 PM.

I went grocery shopping and then came home and fixed a huge holiday meal.

Marsha and McKenzie came over at six for dinner.


This is a photo of Paul and McKenzie. She followed Paul around all evening. It was sweet. My heart always aches when I am around her.

We had a dinner of BBQ sandwiches, corn on the cob, green beans, deviled eggs, pickles, potato salad, and sweet tea. We had banana pudding and coffee for dessert.

Paul went with friends to shot off fireworks in the country. Mark and I took Marsha and McKenzie to the local firework show. It was FANTASTIC!! McKenzie kept saying, "Oh, it's prelly." (translate - pretty)

McKenzie started feeding my cat, Sweetie, her banana pudding. She would take a bite and then give the cat a bite. Well, I tried to add another photo but I can't get it to work. LOL

I'll post some more pictures above this Blog.

Blessings,
Debbie

And, I thought this was a good idea.

I used to have a carport that we could park under but it has been taken over by my son and his friends. No longer a place to park my van it has become skateboard central.

When Mark and I decided to have Mark do Passport2Purity with Paul, we foolishly asked Paul what he wanted the fun activity to be with his dad. I was thinking an amusement park or something along those lines. No such luck. He wanted to build a half pipe. Mark reluctantly agreed; however, the half pipe turned into a launching ramp.


The pictures that are posted is the new and LOWERED launch ramp. ***sigh*** The higher ramp Launched the first teen to test it out into space. That was a pretty scary sight and YET, the other boys were still going to attempt to make it work. Finally, after many FALLS and smashes, they ended up sitting on their boards and riding down the ramp.

First thing the next morning, Mark LOWERED the ramp and life hasn't been the same. We have an average of 7 to 9 kids out there daily ranging in age from 12 to 16. Paul told me that we are the coolest parents in the neighborhood. I am wondering if this is a good thing coming from a kid who tried to move his tramp NEXT to the pool so he and his friends could jump into the water from the tramp?



Does anyone KNOW how loud 9 boys can get on a carport while skateboarding? Does anyone know HOW much food they can consume or cola they can drink? I do.

Does anyone know how terrible teens can smell after skateboarding for hours in the Florida heat?

But despite the noise, the smell, the chaos, I am so glad that these kids are here and not just out roaming around town. Our pool is well used, the carport no longer exist for cars, and the trampoline is a SAFE distance away from the pool. We are considered cool and if we can keep that relationship with our son and his friends over the next years, we might just survive adolescence with this kid!

Blessings,
Debbie

It's almost the END of JUNE!!!

This is Paul receiving his First Class before he went to Boy Scout camp. His dad is on the left. Paul is the center and another Scout Leader is on the end.

Where has the time flown? I can't believe that it's nearly July. Paul and Mark had a great time at Boy Scout camp. It rained the entire week; so, everything was soaking wet and smelling when they came home.

Mark also did the Passport2Purity with Paul last week. Paul's fun bonding activity was to build a quarter pipe together. Well, the quarter pipe turned into a large launch ramp. They made it way to high and had to re-do it the next day.

Paul's attitude towards us has been changed since the Passport2Purity adventure with his dad. He is growing up into a pretty well-rounded young man. I will try and post some pictures of camp and the launch ramp later. :o)

We go on vacation in a few weeks. Well, it's not really a vacation it's visiting out of state relatives and friends in GA, KY, and TN.

I am still having health issues. Gosh, this makes me feel so old. I never thought that I would feel this way for such a length of time.

I'll try and post more later.

Blessings,
Debbie

Sunday musings....nothing deep....

Today is Sunday. It is warm outside and I am sure that the temperature will climb higher as the day continues.

I have been feeling down because of this mono. Mark keeps trying to hug me and when he does I could just cry. It hurts so much just to be touched. I finally was able to describe what my skin feels like - a bad sunburn. I try laying on the bed - only to have my neck hurt. So, then I try sitting up - only to have my arms and back hurt. I told Mark that I feel like a hypochondriac! The thing is that I get up each day determined to feel good, determined to not hurt, only to have my body abandon my good intentions of health and wellness.

My grandmother was hypochondriac. She was always telling us about her physical ailments by making statements like, “Goodness, I have a pain in my panaceas!” I have never wanted to sound like her.

I am very grateful that last week, I was able to get several things accomplished in my home. At least, the house isn’t getting me down as well as my health.

I stayed in my room this morning and was able to listen to Mark’s message. It was so good. He spoke on Peter and the church praying with faith. I really need to practice my faith in a deeper way.

This past week has drained me both physically and emotionally. I am praying for a gentler week. I am praying for God’s presence to abide in my home and heart this week and for me to stay away from the snares of Satan. I am also praying that I have to ability to recognize those snares because often they are camouflaged.

My Day

Today was my piano recital. All in all, it was a nice evening. Most of the children were precious and did a good job. I was very proud of them. I am teaching 22 children but 2 of them (a brother and a sister) didn't show up. They had missed their last several lessons, so this wasn't a big surprise.

The recital lasted about an hour. I gave out medals, trophies, certificates, and balloons. Paul, my son, did a wonderful job and played both of his pieces with ease and perfection. The girls who sang with him were wonderful!

It's always interesting to watch the parents' reactions! Some are so amazed that their children are doing such a wonderful job. I just love it. And, I so enjoy the children - after the recital. Most of them are walking around beaming!

Now, reality has hit. I am so exhausted trying to deal with this mono. This week the doctor had put me on several things, one of which was a steroid. Steroids always make me nuts. I told him that he knew how they play havoc with my emotions and that they make me feel like I am coming out of my skin. His response was that they would get my swelling in my glands to go down. My glands did go down some but my face swelled up. I look like a pumpkin head. The steroids gave me the energy to get through this week. The doc had told me you will feel lots better for a week to ten days and then you will feel horrible again!!!! ugh

He didn't lie. I was through with my steroids yesterday and my glands have swollen back up in my neck, back, and now in my legs. I can hardly walk. But the scariest thing happened to me on Thursday. I think that I may have had a stroke or something. The doctor thinks that I might have had one 2 or 3 years ago. When we ran tests back then, the findings were inconclusive. I had been dealing with a migraine since 3:30 AM. I ended up getting up at 4 because I was so ill. About mid-morning, I was in my kitchen and my right arm went numb and I thought that I was going to throw up. I literally staggered to the bathroom only to see that my face was totally white. I looked like I had put on a layer of clown make-up. I was scared silly. I ended up going to bed until my piano students started coming a little after 3 PM.

Today, while getting my hair done, I almost fell out of the chair. My stylist was alarmed. I was so dizzy.

I am so sick of being sick. I want my body to be healthy. My emotions are shot. Tomorrow I will spend the day doing nothing. I will either sit or lay down. Mark thinks that I need to go back to the doctor's and tell him what happened and get some tests ran. I have to have more test in three months to check out these abnormal cells. I figure, that I will tell them then what happened and we can determine what other tests they want me to do. ugh

I am glad the recital is over and that I can get some rest and sleep now.

I was so very proud of my son.

Mother's Day Thoughts 2005

Today is Mother’s Day. I have always felt extremely blessed to have the privilege of being a mother. I have had friends that have never had a babe in their arms. I have heard their longings and deep desires to have children. As I watch them, I think what wonderful, lovely, godly mothers they would be to some sweet child. So, on this day, I feel blessed beyond measure.

Usually, I also feel some sadness. I have known a mother’s betrayal. I have felt the sting of a sorrow to big for me to bear the burden of alone. Yet, though this sorrow will always weigh upon my soul, Jesus has been with me every step of the way. He restores my soul and He has allowed my tears to fill an ocean. But, in this ocean of tears, my Savior has put in new life, love, friends, and family. In His Awesome and tender mercy, He has shown me how to have a deep relationship with His precious Son, and how to realize the joy that there is in life - no matter what befalls us.

I go back in my mind and I choose to think on the good things about my mom. I remember her saving eggshells for me to color on when I was three and four years old. I was always turning them into igloos. She knew that I loved making things, so she would save the cotton from the pill bottles and little trinkets like broken costume jewelry for me to keep in my treasure box of art supplies. I also remember her reading Bible stories to my older sister and me. We would sit in the small extra bedroom, used for a den, in the afternoons while mother sat in an old brown fake leather rocker recliner. She would slowly rock and read us stories of creation, Adam and Eve, and Noah’s ark. My first memories of the lessons of Jesus were learned at her feet. Yes, these are the memories I treasure of her and hold close and dear to my heart.

Life continues and sometimes sorrow come, businesses fail, loved one die. Some people are equipped with the faith to carry on. They march forward believing fully in Hebrews 11. When I was about 8 or 9 my parents stopped attending church. We would go when visiting with my mother’s parents because my papa was an elder in the church. However, due to my hearing the Word at such a young age and the promise of the Word never to return void or empty, I craved church and the fellowship. So, when I was old enough to drive, I took my younger sister and went to church. Hearing this Word at my mother’s knees and trusting as only a child can was her greatest gift to me.

When I was in my late teens, I knew my mother was struggling with her lack of faith. I bought her a brown velvet Bible which she read along with her Bible from her childhood. At age twenty, I left my denomination and became a Baptist. One day after I was married with a young family, I came into the house. My mother was sitting at the kitchen table with a Bible opened up and wet with tears. Slowly I knelt before her, and whispered a question as to her tears. Her face had no peace, no joy, only aguish. As long as I live I will never forget her words.

She spat out, “Debbie, I am glad that you have found a faith. I am glad that you are able to believe that God will keep you. I cannot believe that way. I have searched this old Bible. I have tried to work to keep my salvation but I fail at every turn. So, this day, I have decided if I am going to end up in hell, I am going to have what I want out of life now. I do not care who I hurt or the means that I get. But, I will have some happiness in this life now because I choose this day to no longer serve God.”

She closed her Bible and left the room. Slowly, I lowered myself into a kitchen chair, and reached for my mother’s old Bible. I opened the book to where she had been reading, and felt the pages still wet and warm with her tears. I tried several times after that to speak to her of God and His love for her but she had made her decision on the hot summer afternoon. She would tell me that someday I would see God desert and abandon me as He had her. She told me that my faith would not sustain me.

Thank God, she was wrong.

A few years later, my parents kidnapped my only daughter and oldest son. I thought my world had ended. I prayed to die. Yet, I was surrounded by people of faith and their prayers held me when I had no offerings to give to God. I sang songs to God that I would no longer serve Him or believe in His care. Then those words my mother has said a few years earlier came upon me like a flood. I knew at that moment that I was not going to let her hate destroy my faith.

I found myself flat on the floor with my face buried in the rug and I prayed for six straight hours. At first my prayer was full of bitterness, rage and tears. I would feel totally spent and silence would fall upon the room. During the times of silence, God began to speak to me. He showed me that suffering for His sake was part of our Christian walk. He showered me with thoughts of His love and goodness. My prayer began to change. Fervently I began to pray for my children’s return, for their safety, for their souls. I cried out to God and asked who would teach them of Christ? His answer to me was so soft and gentle. He impressed upon me the memories I had at four and five hearing His Words at my mother’s knees and told me that I had taught them of His Son and His Love, and He promised me that His words never return void and empty. He assured me on that floor that all of my children would know and love Him.

I began to read the Bible with a passion that exceeded my mind’s understanding. I started camping out in Isaiah and Jeremiah. My faith began to grow like a willow tree upon a river’s bank. Christ became so real to me during the next years, that I continuously feel His presence daily in my life. When sleep beckons me, I see my Savior’s loving eyes, watching over me in the night and that has enabled me to believe that the eyes that watch me and guide my life are the same eyes that my lost children have upon them.

These thoughts and remembrances come to me this day.

Now, I think on this life that I live today. I still have lost children and parents. But, God has filled my ocean with good treasures. I gaze at my adopted son and feel so blessed. He is a child with a sweet gift for seeking the joy out of life. His prayers unfold mysteries beyond his years. I look toward my older son. The son my parents rejected and I see a young man whose faith is bigger and brighter than mine will ever be able to attain. I watch him as he has to work so hard to achieve what most folks take for granted. And, I am amazed that God placed this child in my home to raise. I think on friends who have loved me as Jonathan loved David and I am constantly humbled at their goodness to me.

And, then I look at this man that God blessed me with as a husband. I remember the pain that we have lived through in our marriage and I am forever challenged by his great love for me. I went through some very unloving times after the kidnapping but his compassion towards me was always flowing to me like the waves upon the beach. They washed over me as a gentle breeze and held me as a precious jewel. I know the damage that my parents did to his career and calling and yet, this man loves me. I am so thankful more than words could ever express. I also am thankful for the happiness that we have in our marriage for the fertile ground that we have had in our children to plant a deep faith. We are able to sing and laugh not because life is always perfect but because God is perfect and the love He pours out to us is better than the our sweetest desire could ever imagine. We are blessed.

Mothers can be the most wonderful blessing but we must never try to do it alone. We must seek the Father and His love and perfect will for our lives. I want to leave my children with a heritage rich in the power and miracles of God. I want my legacy to say, “This woman loved and cared for her family. She was a sweet friend. However, her best character was her love and faith in Jesus Christ. She knew Him. She was filled with the Holy Spirit and brought the light of Christ to all who walked in her path. Her children all know the Father, and grow like reeds beside the water’s edge. Her faith and prayers were a sweet incense and they shower over her children’s, children’s children to the tenth generation. She is now resting with Christ and worshipping her Lord.”

I want my children to never cry hot tears over me. I want them to remember me and know me as a sinner saved by grace and called to serve her King with joy.