November 30, 2006
Pray for the Mayhews!
My dear friend Mindy, her husband and 5 children are on their way, as I type to Texas. They are driving. Mindy just had a C-section delivery of her precious baby girl, Brianna Joy only 10 days ago!! However, the reason they are traveling now is because Mindy's precious Nana passed away yesterday during surgery to remove a brain tumor. Nana will be greatly missed. The Memorial service is on Saturday at 11:00 in Mt. Pleasant, Texas. I'm sad for the circumstances but I am grateful that I will get to see MIndy, her family and especially baby Brianna! Pray for safe travel for this sweet family!
Christmas decor
Yesterday and today I indulged myself. I pulled out the 7 massive boxes of Christmas decorations that I have collected and dove in. I set up the tree, the garland, set out my snowmen collection. I pulled out the Christmas scented candles and soaps. And my most favorite of all ... my Christmas CD's. There is nothing in the whole wide world like the feeling you get when it's cold outside, but you're warm inside listening to Russ Taft, Amy Grant or the grandest of all...Michael W. Smith Christmas albums. Before you laugh, have you heard these albums? Don't knock it till you try it! I don't generally listen to any of those 3 artists on any given day, but I do every year for the whole month of December. However, this year I have added a new favorite album to my Christmas play list (thanks to Mindy for buying it for me and mailing it to me as a surprise! You know me so well friend!). It is Sovereign Grace Ministry's first Christmas album entitled, "Savior: Celebrating the Mystery of God Become Man" It is AMAZING!!! Did I mention that it is phenomenal?? I mean it! There are 12 original Christmas themed songs on it. I couldn't possibly choose one as my favorite. No way. Anyway, check it out. Treat yourself this year to an early Christmas present. Even better, one that will cause you to celebrate at the realization of the glorious gift of the gospel!
November 27, 2006
Trip Details
So we left straight from the parking lot of Blue Ivy School on Friday, Nov 17th. We arrived in Tomball close to dinner time. Danyel and Eli came to stay the night and we all went out to dinner. I had some good old southern chicken fried chicken, mashed potatoes with cream gravy and green beans. So bad for me! The next morning Danyel, Cait and I went to go see my granny in the hospital. She had to stay way longer there than originally anticipated because they were waiting for her blood to thin out to a healthy level. We were glad to see her, but it was hard. She looked so weak and frail. That afternoon mom, Danyel, Cait and I went shopping and then to get pedicures. Mom treated us all. Cait got her first mani and pedi that day. Well, really she just got lotion, polish and then little flowers put on top of her polish. She thought she was very big. I got a glimpse into the future of many years to come of her joining "the girls" for outings like this one. So fun! That night we went to eat mexican food with Danyel's in-laws, Dick and Sue. Danyel and Eli headed home from there.
The next morning we all got dressed for church. Benjamin wanted to wear his cowboy boots and hat to church like his Poppa. This was funny to me. He is developing his own interests apart from me. Don't get me wrong, it's a wonderful thing to see your child gain independence, but strange to watch them become their own person day by day. Anyway, B looked very handsome and my dad taught him proper hat manners; they took off their hats when they entered the building. Such a blessing to watch B being instructed in "manly" things by my dad. I can really trust that my dad is going to always teach him how to be a "real man" and be a gentleman at the same time!
Sunday afternoon my cousin had a lingerie shower. We brought Cait, not really thinking through what the gifts were going to be like and what she would think of that. She had the job of bringing the gifts to Angela one by one to open. As Angela opened each present, Cait was starting to figure things out. She said (very loudly, I may add), "Panties AGAIN??" Everyone was cracking up. It was fun to see all the "girls" in my family all together laughing and being silly. Surprising thing? I think my granny's (dad's mom) gift to her was the slinkiest gift of all!!! We all got a kick out of that!
Now Monday was the most eventful day of the whole week. It was the one I was looking forward to the most. Mostly because it was a hurdle that I had to get over. That morning I took the kids to the mall and we did a few exchanges and took care of some mall business (I hate the mall! So inaccessible, it seems!) After that we met Jackie (Chris's mom) and Macie (my niece whom she cares for twice a week) at the mall play area. It was my first time to see them since everything has happened. I felt this explosion of emotions when I saw her. We hugged for a long time and then attempted to make up for lost time. Chris's brother was just engaged a few weeks ago so I got the scoop on all the details. How fun! Th best part is, we talked about real things. We didn't skirt around the issues that were blaring in our faces. We talked about the last 4 months and then the last 5 years. She told me that I would be missed at Thanksgiving and that meant to much to me! .....I'm having a moment..... You know one of those where reality sinks in a little bit more and it hurts. It hurts all over again. They're not my "family" anymore. Isn't that sad?? Divorce is so horribly painful for those who get drug through the mud with you. Anyway....we had a great visit. We actually met up with Aimee, Mikaela and Corey a little bit later and hung out and then went to dinner. I felt like their love for me was not linked to my marriage with their brother/son. They cared for me even though we were no longer married. That is such a blessing!
Tuesday, I went to visit my friend Ashley and her girls. The kids had a good time playing and the mommies just got a chance to catch up. It was fun!
Somewhere in this time Benjamin got his first riding lesson on Hershey, the horse. It was all his idea to want to learn. He brought his boots and hat and was very prepared. I videoed the whole thing and took a bazillion pictures. What a moment! My dad taught him how to stop and turn the horse. I'm a little nervous about the future lesson of starting the horse though. I can just see my super physical son kicking the horse in the side and Hershey bolting off! Well, that's next trip, so I won't worry about that now. However, on lesson number 2 the following day, Hershey stepped in hole and his old knee buckled. Benjamin fell off the horse and landed right on his bottom. Oh was he upset!! He cried and cried...mostly out of fear I think. After he was calm and checked out, my dad put him right back up on the horse with no protest from Benjamin. This was such an important lesson for B, I think. You have to get up when you fall and try again. Don't let fear set in. We talked and talked and talked about it afterwards. He says he plans to ride again at Christmas, so we'll see!
Wednesday the kids and I stayed home and played all morning. We ran around the yard. Benjamin cut through the "forest" with his sword and Cait played in the playhouse. It was a great day of outdoor play, and the kind they just can't get here at home. That night my parents treated us to a special dinner at Pappadeaux's! This kind of made up for the fact that I was missing not one, but 2 of my traditional yummy Thanksgiving feasts. Gosh, I love food! I really do! Anyway, yummy! Thanks mom and dad!
Thursday we went to my uncle Mark's for Thanksgiving. It looked like this: 20 different dishes piled with food, 20 desserts to choose from (you think I'm exaggerating?) guys watching football, kids playing pool with no sticks, the women posing people for a "casual" picture. I got pulled aside more than once and had a family member stick money in my pocket for the kids for Christmas. What a blessing! After lunch everyone went outside. Uncle Mark gave B his first roping lesson. He thought he was a "real cowboy", let me tell you! Can't wait to show you the pictures of that. Then...I got a roping lesson. Not bad, not bad. I love learning new things like that!
After we left Mark's we went to visit granny J in her new 24 hour care place. She looked so much better seeing as how she wasn't so drugged up as before. She has a really nice place there and I hope she'll be happy. Her church comes there and does services. That made her happy! Aimee's church also comes there and Aimee promised to go find granny and sing and play for them. Benjamin had drawn granny a picture of the family for her to hang on her wall. It seems like she's getting settled well. Immediately after our visit I took the kids to meet Chris. They headed for Sugar Land and I headed to Willis to see the Hamms at their parent's house. I thought I was super close, but it took a little longer than anticipated. What a neat family they are...and a blessing! I'm so glad I got to go by. From there I headed straight to Danyel and Ryan's house. We hung out that night and went to bed super early.
On Friday morning D and I went shopping for a few hours. We caught some amazing sales and both almost finished up our Christmas lists!! We headed home, wrapped all of her gifts, cleaned out her baby room closet, got her totally organized and ready for baby Mia. At the end of all of that we were exhausted and feeling pretty productive!! The next morning I got up and started the long trip home to Dallas, where I met Chris and got my babies back!! I missed them!
Long story, I know...but there are some of you that really want to know all these details. So there you go.
One more thing. People I ran into sporadically throughout the trip all seemed to make similar comments about me. Several people told me that I looked like I was at peace, unlike I had been in years. What a confirmation of how I truly feel. And I say this not because I am trying to say what a "strong" person I am. Rather, what a testimony to the grace of God in my life. I should not be at peace right now. If left to myself, I would be a wreck. But no, He didn't leave me to myself. He has showered me with grace. He has shielded me and protected me. He has given me His strength because He knew that I had none of my own. What a loving Lord! I think we all should examine daily, NO!... hourly the unfathomable graces that the Lord gives us each day. If we start to think about it long enough, we should be overwhelmed with a sense of the Father's love for us and the strength of His hand. This should truly fill our heart with thanksgiving. Now we don't have to wait until next November to celebrate our thankfulness to God. We can do it day by day, hour by hour. Lord, help me to do it.
"He is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him." John Piper
The next morning we all got dressed for church. Benjamin wanted to wear his cowboy boots and hat to church like his Poppa. This was funny to me. He is developing his own interests apart from me. Don't get me wrong, it's a wonderful thing to see your child gain independence, but strange to watch them become their own person day by day. Anyway, B looked very handsome and my dad taught him proper hat manners; they took off their hats when they entered the building. Such a blessing to watch B being instructed in "manly" things by my dad. I can really trust that my dad is going to always teach him how to be a "real man" and be a gentleman at the same time!
Sunday afternoon my cousin had a lingerie shower. We brought Cait, not really thinking through what the gifts were going to be like and what she would think of that. She had the job of bringing the gifts to Angela one by one to open. As Angela opened each present, Cait was starting to figure things out. She said (very loudly, I may add), "Panties AGAIN??" Everyone was cracking up. It was fun to see all the "girls" in my family all together laughing and being silly. Surprising thing? I think my granny's (dad's mom) gift to her was the slinkiest gift of all!!! We all got a kick out of that!
Now Monday was the most eventful day of the whole week. It was the one I was looking forward to the most. Mostly because it was a hurdle that I had to get over. That morning I took the kids to the mall and we did a few exchanges and took care of some mall business (I hate the mall! So inaccessible, it seems!) After that we met Jackie (Chris's mom) and Macie (my niece whom she cares for twice a week) at the mall play area. It was my first time to see them since everything has happened. I felt this explosion of emotions when I saw her. We hugged for a long time and then attempted to make up for lost time. Chris's brother was just engaged a few weeks ago so I got the scoop on all the details. How fun! Th best part is, we talked about real things. We didn't skirt around the issues that were blaring in our faces. We talked about the last 4 months and then the last 5 years. She told me that I would be missed at Thanksgiving and that meant to much to me! .....I'm having a moment..... You know one of those where reality sinks in a little bit more and it hurts. It hurts all over again. They're not my "family" anymore. Isn't that sad?? Divorce is so horribly painful for those who get drug through the mud with you. Anyway....we had a great visit. We actually met up with Aimee, Mikaela and Corey a little bit later and hung out and then went to dinner. I felt like their love for me was not linked to my marriage with their brother/son. They cared for me even though we were no longer married. That is such a blessing!
Tuesday, I went to visit my friend Ashley and her girls. The kids had a good time playing and the mommies just got a chance to catch up. It was fun!
Somewhere in this time Benjamin got his first riding lesson on Hershey, the horse. It was all his idea to want to learn. He brought his boots and hat and was very prepared. I videoed the whole thing and took a bazillion pictures. What a moment! My dad taught him how to stop and turn the horse. I'm a little nervous about the future lesson of starting the horse though. I can just see my super physical son kicking the horse in the side and Hershey bolting off! Well, that's next trip, so I won't worry about that now. However, on lesson number 2 the following day, Hershey stepped in hole and his old knee buckled. Benjamin fell off the horse and landed right on his bottom. Oh was he upset!! He cried and cried...mostly out of fear I think. After he was calm and checked out, my dad put him right back up on the horse with no protest from Benjamin. This was such an important lesson for B, I think. You have to get up when you fall and try again. Don't let fear set in. We talked and talked and talked about it afterwards. He says he plans to ride again at Christmas, so we'll see!
Wednesday the kids and I stayed home and played all morning. We ran around the yard. Benjamin cut through the "forest" with his sword and Cait played in the playhouse. It was a great day of outdoor play, and the kind they just can't get here at home. That night my parents treated us to a special dinner at Pappadeaux's! This kind of made up for the fact that I was missing not one, but 2 of my traditional yummy Thanksgiving feasts. Gosh, I love food! I really do! Anyway, yummy! Thanks mom and dad!
Thursday we went to my uncle Mark's for Thanksgiving. It looked like this: 20 different dishes piled with food, 20 desserts to choose from (you think I'm exaggerating?) guys watching football, kids playing pool with no sticks, the women posing people for a "casual" picture. I got pulled aside more than once and had a family member stick money in my pocket for the kids for Christmas. What a blessing! After lunch everyone went outside. Uncle Mark gave B his first roping lesson. He thought he was a "real cowboy", let me tell you! Can't wait to show you the pictures of that. Then...I got a roping lesson. Not bad, not bad. I love learning new things like that!
After we left Mark's we went to visit granny J in her new 24 hour care place. She looked so much better seeing as how she wasn't so drugged up as before. She has a really nice place there and I hope she'll be happy. Her church comes there and does services. That made her happy! Aimee's church also comes there and Aimee promised to go find granny and sing and play for them. Benjamin had drawn granny a picture of the family for her to hang on her wall. It seems like she's getting settled well. Immediately after our visit I took the kids to meet Chris. They headed for Sugar Land and I headed to Willis to see the Hamms at their parent's house. I thought I was super close, but it took a little longer than anticipated. What a neat family they are...and a blessing! I'm so glad I got to go by. From there I headed straight to Danyel and Ryan's house. We hung out that night and went to bed super early.
On Friday morning D and I went shopping for a few hours. We caught some amazing sales and both almost finished up our Christmas lists!! We headed home, wrapped all of her gifts, cleaned out her baby room closet, got her totally organized and ready for baby Mia. At the end of all of that we were exhausted and feeling pretty productive!! The next morning I got up and started the long trip home to Dallas, where I met Chris and got my babies back!! I missed them!
Long story, I know...but there are some of you that really want to know all these details. So there you go.
One more thing. People I ran into sporadically throughout the trip all seemed to make similar comments about me. Several people told me that I looked like I was at peace, unlike I had been in years. What a confirmation of how I truly feel. And I say this not because I am trying to say what a "strong" person I am. Rather, what a testimony to the grace of God in my life. I should not be at peace right now. If left to myself, I would be a wreck. But no, He didn't leave me to myself. He has showered me with grace. He has shielded me and protected me. He has given me His strength because He knew that I had none of my own. What a loving Lord! I think we all should examine daily, NO!... hourly the unfathomable graces that the Lord gives us each day. If we start to think about it long enough, we should be overwhelmed with a sense of the Father's love for us and the strength of His hand. This should truly fill our heart with thanksgiving. Now we don't have to wait until next November to celebrate our thankfulness to God. We can do it day by day, hour by hour. Lord, help me to do it.
"He is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him." John Piper
We're Home
Well we made it home Saturday afternoon safe and sound. It was a really great trip. It was full of fun things, but not so busy that we couldn't really enjoy our time. Eight days away from home. That's a long trip in my opinion, but I didn't even feel home sick. I came home, glad to be home, but not as glad as I usually have been in the past. I did miss my bed. The kids missed their toys. And I am glad to get right into normal routine again. The next 3 weeks are looming in front of me! They are scary busy. All good things, like making money, Foundations group meeting for the first time in weeks... resuming all our normal things. But, added in the mix is the pressure of not 1, not 2, but 3 Christmas musicals to put on in the next 3 weeks. I am stressed about that to say the least! Pray for me if you think of me that everything will come together in the time allotted. AHHH!
Anyway, the trip was great. I'll give a brief summary of it later today. Right now I have to run because I way over slept this morning. That's something I never do. It might have something to do with the fact that I couldn't fall asleep last night until 1:30 and then my alarm was set for 5:00. Not enough sleep. So, I kept hitting snooze until like 6:20. I still have plenty of time for the necessities, but not everything I wanted to accomplish this morning!
Anyway, have a great Monday everyone. I hope you had a great Thanksgiving holiday with your family. Can't wait to hear about it!
Anyway, the trip was great. I'll give a brief summary of it later today. Right now I have to run because I way over slept this morning. That's something I never do. It might have something to do with the fact that I couldn't fall asleep last night until 1:30 and then my alarm was set for 5:00. Not enough sleep. So, I kept hitting snooze until like 6:20. I still have plenty of time for the necessities, but not everything I wanted to accomplish this morning!
Anyway, have a great Monday everyone. I hope you had a great Thanksgiving holiday with your family. Can't wait to hear about it!
November 16, 2006
Recovering
Well, that is something I guess I will be in a perpetual state of for the next months/years to come...yes. But mainly I am recovering from strep. It hurt. It still hurts mildly. It is such a wonderful feeling when you start feeling like yourself again, only skinnier because you haven't eaten in almost a week (bonus!) Anyway, the kids and I went to Blue Ivy today and got home earlier than planned. We had lunch, the kids played and I got to talk to Mindy on the phone while she was in the car (best mommy talk time!). Mindy is scheduled to give birth to her 5th bundle of joy on Monday morning. Unfortunately I won't be able to blog about it then because I'll be in the country where the internet is too ssssllllloooooowwww! That's okay. No offense mom and dad. It will be kind of freeing not to have to check my e-mail 77 times a day or worry about my next "interesting" blog posting (that's a stretch, I know!) . I will just get to look forward to coming home next Saturday to a full inbox and multiple blogs to check. I'll feel so far behind! Once again, that's okay.
So here's the plan, we leave tomorrow right after Blue Ivy. We get to Tomball in time for dinner. Danyel and Eli stay the night with us at mom and dad's. Fun. Then Saturday and Sunday we help get my grandmother moved in a situated into her new place...in a nursing home. She doesn't know that this is where she is going. She will be very upset when she finds out. However, she needs 24 hour care now that both of her legs are going to be in a cast for the next 3 months! She'll need help with everything!!! Sunday my cousin is having a lingerie shower and we're all attending. Then Monday, we're thinking about the museum and the mall to ride the carousel. Tuesday I get together with my friend Ashley and her kiddos! YAY! Ashley is my friend from high school. She has 3 little girls that are adorable! Can't wait. Then, Wednesday I am going to Chris's sister's house (Aimee) to visit with her, my nieces and Jackie (Chris' mom). It will be good to see them. I haven't seen them in months. Wednesday night we are celebrating Thanksgiving with my granny in her new place. We're just going to bring in dinner from somewhere. Weird. No granny's dressing for Thanksgiving. No potato salad (with absolutely NO mustard), no homemade apple pie, or fudge pie, or chocolate cream pie. I like pie. I'm depressed already thinking about it. First of many years to come where things won't be the same. Let me stop and say, yes! My mom is a great cook too, but she's never done the main cooking for Thanksgiving or Christmas. Granny has always done it. That's the way it has always been and the way I wanted it always to be. Unfortunately, things change. Change is hard. Too much change right now.
off to him. it really is going to be okay, I know. But it's hard thinking about it. No Then...Thursday we are meeting my dad's family at his brother Mark's house for lunch. This will be fun and fattening. I have a loud and obnoxious extended family. We all kind of play off each other. Thank God no one drinks, because it would really be wild if you threw in that factor! Thursday afternoon I will meet Chris on I-45 somewhere and pass Benjamin and Cait off to him. It's so sad. Do you know what this means? No more Perkinson Thanksgiving meal for me!!! Chris's mom is an excellent cook and I love everything on their traditional Thanksgiving spread. I'm especially fond of sweet potato crunch and strawberry jello salad. *sigh* Man, I really should loose some weight with all this change happening in my life. Less food.
Good news! Thanksgiving night I am going back to Ryan and Danyel's to stay with them for a few nights. I get to help set up baby Mia's bedding and help care for Eli while Danyel gets some things done. We're gonna try to throw a little shopping in there too!
Long story. Long trip. I can't wait. I'm packing several mini-projects for while I'm there. I'm hoping to make it fun and productive!
Happy Thanksgiving everyone! Talk to you when we get back!
"Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth!
Serve the LORD with gladness!
Come into his presence with singing!
So here's the plan, we leave tomorrow right after Blue Ivy. We get to Tomball in time for dinner. Danyel and Eli stay the night with us at mom and dad's. Fun. Then Saturday and Sunday we help get my grandmother moved in a situated into her new place...in a nursing home. She doesn't know that this is where she is going. She will be very upset when she finds out. However, she needs 24 hour care now that both of her legs are going to be in a cast for the next 3 months! She'll need help with everything!!! Sunday my cousin is having a lingerie shower and we're all attending. Then Monday, we're thinking about the museum and the mall to ride the carousel. Tuesday I get together with my friend Ashley and her kiddos! YAY! Ashley is my friend from high school. She has 3 little girls that are adorable! Can't wait. Then, Wednesday I am going to Chris's sister's house (Aimee) to visit with her, my nieces and Jackie (Chris' mom). It will be good to see them. I haven't seen them in months. Wednesday night we are celebrating Thanksgiving with my granny in her new place. We're just going to bring in dinner from somewhere. Weird. No granny's dressing for Thanksgiving. No potato salad (with absolutely NO mustard), no homemade apple pie, or fudge pie, or chocolate cream pie. I like pie. I'm depressed already thinking about it. First of many years to come where things won't be the same. Let me stop and say, yes! My mom is a great cook too, but she's never done the main cooking for Thanksgiving or Christmas. Granny has always done it. That's the way it has always been and the way I wanted it always to be. Unfortunately, things change. Change is hard. Too much change right now.
off to him. it really is going to be okay, I know. But it's hard thinking about it. No Then...Thursday we are meeting my dad's family at his brother Mark's house for lunch. This will be fun and fattening. I have a loud and obnoxious extended family. We all kind of play off each other. Thank God no one drinks, because it would really be wild if you threw in that factor! Thursday afternoon I will meet Chris on I-45 somewhere and pass Benjamin and Cait off to him. It's so sad. Do you know what this means? No more Perkinson Thanksgiving meal for me!!! Chris's mom is an excellent cook and I love everything on their traditional Thanksgiving spread. I'm especially fond of sweet potato crunch and strawberry jello salad. *sigh* Man, I really should loose some weight with all this change happening in my life. Less food.
Good news! Thanksgiving night I am going back to Ryan and Danyel's to stay with them for a few nights. I get to help set up baby Mia's bedding and help care for Eli while Danyel gets some things done. We're gonna try to throw a little shopping in there too!
Long story. Long trip. I can't wait. I'm packing several mini-projects for while I'm there. I'm hoping to make it fun and productive!
Happy Thanksgiving everyone! Talk to you when we get back!
"Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth!
Serve the LORD with gladness!
Come into his presence with singing!
Know that the LORD, he is God!
It is he who made us, and we are his;
we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
Enter his gates with thanksgiving,
and his courts with praise!
Give thanks to him; bless his name!
For the LORD is good;
his steadfast love endures forever,
and his faithfulness to all generations."
Psalm 100
November 14, 2006
Vomit and Nice Guys
I'm having a brief moment of energy, so I thought I should post a little something. I was so blessed to have my old college roommate, Lori and her two youngest kids come to visit this weekend. We had such a great time visiting, letting the kids play and letting ourselves make some fun cards to give away. Lori is very creative and led Kat and I through the project like an expert.
Sunday was a tough day at church. It was my last meeting with the discipline committee. They wanted to meet with me before they met with Chris that afternoon. It was hard and emotional, but it brought the weirdest sense of closure for me. I feel very relieved that that part is behind me now. That afternoon after I passed the kids off to Chris, I started to feel not so hot. I had a sore throat and my whole body ached. OH NO! I can't have the flu! I've had a flu shot already. Well, sure enough in the middle of the night I started to throw up. I continued in this fun up and down pattern all night long. I got very little sleep. The next morning I called to cancel all my classes. Do you know what Chris did? You're not going to believe it. He took a personal sick day so that he could care for the kids for me all day up until bedtime. I was able to rest in bed and catch up on my missed sleep. Not only that, he brought the kids to the house that morning to see me. They brought me hot tea, Tylenol and flowers. Sweet huh?
Well, I'm thinkin' that the worst is over, right? Well...not at all. My throat got worse and worse to the point where it felt as if it were swelling shut. I was so blessed to get a dr. appt this morning with Dr. Cindy. Just as I feared! Strep throat! I haven't had strep throat in years and years. Man, does it hurt!!
Dr. Cindy sweetly hooked me up with all my meds right there in the office, even some medication for pain. That should do it! If you think about me, pray that tomorrow morning when I wake up I will feel well and full of enough energy to go teach my short little classes. I plan on being super cautious not to touch the kids. Chris and I already had planned for him to have the kids all day so that that could be his make-up time for not seeing them this upcoming weekend. I'll probably have to rush home after I teach and fall in the bed.
Stay well all of you out there! I wouldn't wish this on anyone! I plan to post tomorrow or the next day about our fun fall party that I hosted last week. Sooooo fun!
Sunday was a tough day at church. It was my last meeting with the discipline committee. They wanted to meet with me before they met with Chris that afternoon. It was hard and emotional, but it brought the weirdest sense of closure for me. I feel very relieved that that part is behind me now. That afternoon after I passed the kids off to Chris, I started to feel not so hot. I had a sore throat and my whole body ached. OH NO! I can't have the flu! I've had a flu shot already. Well, sure enough in the middle of the night I started to throw up. I continued in this fun up and down pattern all night long. I got very little sleep. The next morning I called to cancel all my classes. Do you know what Chris did? You're not going to believe it. He took a personal sick day so that he could care for the kids for me all day up until bedtime. I was able to rest in bed and catch up on my missed sleep. Not only that, he brought the kids to the house that morning to see me. They brought me hot tea, Tylenol and flowers. Sweet huh?
Well, I'm thinkin' that the worst is over, right? Well...not at all. My throat got worse and worse to the point where it felt as if it were swelling shut. I was so blessed to get a dr. appt this morning with Dr. Cindy. Just as I feared! Strep throat! I haven't had strep throat in years and years. Man, does it hurt!!
Dr. Cindy sweetly hooked me up with all my meds right there in the office, even some medication for pain. That should do it! If you think about me, pray that tomorrow morning when I wake up I will feel well and full of enough energy to go teach my short little classes. I plan on being super cautious not to touch the kids. Chris and I already had planned for him to have the kids all day so that that could be his make-up time for not seeing them this upcoming weekend. I'll probably have to rush home after I teach and fall in the bed.
Stay well all of you out there! I wouldn't wish this on anyone! I plan to post tomorrow or the next day about our fun fall party that I hosted last week. Sooooo fun!
November 12, 2006
Be Still, My Soul
Be still my soul: the Lord is on thy side;
Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain;
Leave to thy God to order and provide;
In every change He faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul: thy best, thy heavenly Friend
Thro' thorny ways lads to a joyful end.
Be still, my soul: they God doth undertake
To guide the future as he has the past.
Thy hope, thy confidence let nothing shake;
All now mysterious shall be bright at last.
Be still, my soul: the waves and winds still know
His voice who ruled them while He dwelt below.
Be still, my soul: the hour is hast'ning on
When we shall be forever with the Lord,
When disappointment, grief, and fear are gone,
Sorrow forgot, love's purest joys restored.
Be still, my soul: when change and tears are past,
All safe and blessed we shall meet at last.
Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain;
Leave to thy God to order and provide;
In every change He faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul: thy best, thy heavenly Friend
Thro' thorny ways lads to a joyful end.
Be still, my soul: they God doth undertake
To guide the future as he has the past.
Thy hope, thy confidence let nothing shake;
All now mysterious shall be bright at last.
Be still, my soul: the waves and winds still know
His voice who ruled them while He dwelt below.
Be still, my soul: the hour is hast'ning on
When we shall be forever with the Lord,
When disappointment, grief, and fear are gone,
Sorrow forgot, love's purest joys restored.
Be still, my soul: when change and tears are past,
All safe and blessed we shall meet at last.
November 09, 2006
It is my cup; It is my portion
My dear friend Amber loaned me a book over the weekend. I picked it up today because I was having one of "those" days. Let's see...I got some new and hurtful information, I cried all morning, I feel dog tired and Cait cried today when I left her in her classroom. She "wanted me because she loved me." Heartbreaking. And all of this was before 8:30am. What a start! After we got to school, I kicked into teacher gear and worked on auto-pilot for the next 3 hours. Then when we got in the car I heard one of the Valley of Vision songs and I started crying all over again. I always think I'm a sneaky crier, ya know? Sunglasses on, music up loud, kids behind me can't see me, discretely wipe the tears. You get the picture. Well, today we were almost home and Benjamin said out of nowhere..."Mommy, why do you cry a lot?" Heart stopped. Want to cry more. Compose self. Answer in calm voice, "Everybody is sad sometimes aren't they buddy?"
Sooo, all this to say it started out as another hard Thursday. Then I picked up the book. It is titled, Calm My Anxious Heart by Linda Dillow. I was so moved by the introduction that I have decided to post little bits and pieces of it here for your encouragement as well. I was sad this morning fighting to trust God and keep my eyes on Him, but what I read from Mrs. Dillow today helped me focus in on what I was lacking. I was lacking contentment and peace. I think the two go hand in hand. Here's some of what she said:
She discusses hard times that people have to endure and she asks how we can be content in the midst of tough, tough times. She told of a missionary woman who had this list of guidelines for herself to help her be more content. They put me to shame and overwhelmed me!
This contentment happens on the inside. It is NOT dependent on our outward circumstances, feelings or on other people! "Contentment is a state of heart, not a state of affairs."
We have to rely on God to give us strength to be content. He has to infuse it into us. She translates Philippians 4:13 to say, "I am strong for all things in the One who constantly infuses strength in me." She gave the illustration of us as a cup of hot water. Christ is the tea bag. The longer we allow it to steep , the more infused we become with His strength and His character. The stronger we become.
Here are two awesome verses she memorized and I want to as well.
"God...is the blessed controller of all things, the king over all kings and the master of all masters." I Timothy 6:15
Who controls my life? God. What kind of a controller is He? Blessed.
J.I. Packer said, "Contentment is essentially a matter of accepting from God's hand what He sends because we know that He is good and therefore it is good."
YES!!! I HAVE to believe this! I have to soak in this truth so that I won't let discouragement take over.
Second verse, "Lord, you have assigned me my portion and my cup; you have made my lot secure." Psalm 16:5
Here's what Elizabeth Elliott says about this verse...
"I know of no greater simplifier for all of life. Whatever happens is assigned. Does the intellect balk at that? Can we say that there are things that happen to us that do not belong to our lovingly assigned 'portion' (This belongs to it, that does not)? Are some things, then, out of the control of the Almighty? Every assignment is measured and controlled for my eternal good. As I accept the given portion, other options are cancelled. Decisions become much easier, directions clearer, and hence my heart becomes much inexpressibly quieter. A quiet heart is content with what God gives."
So there you have it. It is so clear. When I am sad about my portion, I need to cry out to God and ask Him to help me embrace it. Help me have the strength to not wish that my assignment were a different one. Help me find peace in knowing that this cup, be it a bitter one, is for His glory. Help me desire my own sanctification and His glory through that more than I desire my relief from the pain, and more than I desire my comfort and easy, trouble-free life. Help me be like Christ who "grasped the handle of His cup and lifted it to God and said, 'I accept my portion. Infuse me with Your strength that I may drink.'"
It was so good for me to type all this out. It helped me process it yet again. I hope you will have found something encouraging as well to make the long read worthwhile.
Sooo, all this to say it started out as another hard Thursday. Then I picked up the book. It is titled, Calm My Anxious Heart by Linda Dillow. I was so moved by the introduction that I have decided to post little bits and pieces of it here for your encouragement as well. I was sad this morning fighting to trust God and keep my eyes on Him, but what I read from Mrs. Dillow today helped me focus in on what I was lacking. I was lacking contentment and peace. I think the two go hand in hand. Here's some of what she said:
She discusses hard times that people have to endure and she asks how we can be content in the midst of tough, tough times. She told of a missionary woman who had this list of guidelines for herself to help her be more content. They put me to shame and overwhelmed me!
- Never allow yourself to complain about anything-not even the weather
- Never picture yourself in any other circumstances or someplace else.
- Never compare our lot with another's
- Never allow yourself to wish this or that had been otherwise.
- Never dwell on tomorrow-remember that tomorrow is God's, not ours.
This contentment happens on the inside. It is NOT dependent on our outward circumstances, feelings or on other people! "Contentment is a state of heart, not a state of affairs."
We have to rely on God to give us strength to be content. He has to infuse it into us. She translates Philippians 4:13 to say, "I am strong for all things in the One who constantly infuses strength in me." She gave the illustration of us as a cup of hot water. Christ is the tea bag. The longer we allow it to steep , the more infused we become with His strength and His character. The stronger we become.
Here are two awesome verses she memorized and I want to as well.
"God...is the blessed controller of all things, the king over all kings and the master of all masters." I Timothy 6:15
Who controls my life? God. What kind of a controller is He? Blessed.
J.I. Packer said, "Contentment is essentially a matter of accepting from God's hand what He sends because we know that He is good and therefore it is good."
YES!!! I HAVE to believe this! I have to soak in this truth so that I won't let discouragement take over.
Second verse, "Lord, you have assigned me my portion and my cup; you have made my lot secure." Psalm 16:5
Here's what Elizabeth Elliott says about this verse...
"I know of no greater simplifier for all of life. Whatever happens is assigned. Does the intellect balk at that? Can we say that there are things that happen to us that do not belong to our lovingly assigned 'portion' (This belongs to it, that does not)? Are some things, then, out of the control of the Almighty? Every assignment is measured and controlled for my eternal good. As I accept the given portion, other options are cancelled. Decisions become much easier, directions clearer, and hence my heart becomes much inexpressibly quieter. A quiet heart is content with what God gives."
So there you have it. It is so clear. When I am sad about my portion, I need to cry out to God and ask Him to help me embrace it. Help me have the strength to not wish that my assignment were a different one. Help me find peace in knowing that this cup, be it a bitter one, is for His glory. Help me desire my own sanctification and His glory through that more than I desire my relief from the pain, and more than I desire my comfort and easy, trouble-free life. Help me be like Christ who "grasped the handle of His cup and lifted it to God and said, 'I accept my portion. Infuse me with Your strength that I may drink.'"
It was so good for me to type all this out. It helped me process it yet again. I hope you will have found something encouraging as well to make the long read worthwhile.
November 07, 2006
The Retreat
Pine Cove, the Bluffs in Tyler, Texas. We had our First Baptist Church of Parker's Ladies Retreat this weekend. We had so much fun! Words cannot describe how much I looked forward to it and how much it met and exceeded my expectations.
During some free time on Saturday, we hiked up to the highest peak in the county. Here is a picture of our view. There are glimpses of fall there, unlike here in Dallas.
Here is Julie and her mom Mary. We were blessed to have Mary at the retreat with us. She lives in Tyler, so it was very convenient for her to pop on over. I hope her coming to the Ladies Retreat will be a new tradition!
Kat played the piano for me this weekend while I led the music. Jenni played the guitar for us the other half of the weekend. Here we are diligently rehearsing some of the newer songs we were attempting to teach everyone.
Here we are rehearsing not seriously at all!! We were being rather obnoxious, I'm sure! Oh well, it was fun and no one was harmed, so I guess it's all good, huh?
Here is some of the gang at the top of the peak. We stopped for a photo opp!
Tamra, Jenna, Jenni, Julie and Amber.
Amber doesn't go to our church either. She lives way over in Crowley, Texas. So close, yet so far away. We are SOOOOO glad you came Amber!!! We love you! Thanks for letting me hog you for another year as my roommate. Can't wait till next year!
On the way home, we stopped in Canton. That was tons of fun. I got a few small things that I had been looking for. I got a corn dog and a cherry limeade. All was well with the world! I was missing my babies something awful come Sunday afternoon, but I survived until Monday when I finally got to see them! Yay for refreshment and fun times! Yay for friends...especially the kind that love you so much that they sharpen you and point you back to the Savior again and again!
During some free time on Saturday, we hiked up to the highest peak in the county. Here is a picture of our view. There are glimpses of fall there, unlike here in Dallas.
Here is Julie and her mom Mary. We were blessed to have Mary at the retreat with us. She lives in Tyler, so it was very convenient for her to pop on over. I hope her coming to the Ladies Retreat will be a new tradition!
Kat played the piano for me this weekend while I led the music. Jenni played the guitar for us the other half of the weekend. Here we are diligently rehearsing some of the newer songs we were attempting to teach everyone.
Here we are rehearsing not seriously at all!! We were being rather obnoxious, I'm sure! Oh well, it was fun and no one was harmed, so I guess it's all good, huh?
Here is some of the gang at the top of the peak. We stopped for a photo opp!
Tamra, Jenna, Jenni, Julie and Amber.
Amber doesn't go to our church either. She lives way over in Crowley, Texas. So close, yet so far away. We are SOOOOO glad you came Amber!!! We love you! Thanks for letting me hog you for another year as my roommate. Can't wait till next year!
On the way home, we stopped in Canton. That was tons of fun. I got a few small things that I had been looking for. I got a corn dog and a cherry limeade. All was well with the world! I was missing my babies something awful come Sunday afternoon, but I survived until Monday when I finally got to see them! Yay for refreshment and fun times! Yay for friends...especially the kind that love you so much that they sharpen you and point you back to the Savior again and again!
Broke the 1,000 mark!
This is very exciting and I'm sure you couldn't care less, but...my counter map thingy this morning said that I have had 1088 visitors to my blog since Oct 24th when I added the counter. Pretty cool, huh? I'm sure people just keep checking back in hopes I'll say something profound...sorry to disappoint you. I'm not very deep. I just hang around people who are...in hopes it will rub off on me (sound familiar Amber?)
I hope everyone has a blessed day today! I had a wonderful weekend at my Ladies Retreat and I'll try to post some pictures tonight. It was exactly what I needed after such a long, hard week.
My granny's surgery was postponed to today, so I will let you know also how that turns out. Thanks for praying.
I know you know it by heart, but read it again and be encouraged...and comforted.
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.
He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.
I hope everyone has a blessed day today! I had a wonderful weekend at my Ladies Retreat and I'll try to post some pictures tonight. It was exactly what I needed after such a long, hard week.
My granny's surgery was postponed to today, so I will let you know also how that turns out. Thanks for praying.
I know you know it by heart, but read it again and be encouraged...and comforted.
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.
He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies;
you anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life,
and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.
Psalm 23
November 06, 2006
Please pray
My sweet granny J (my mom's mom) is having surgery today. Yesterday when coming home from church, she fell in the lobby of her Assisted Living Facility. She broke both of her legs. One above the knee and the other below the knee. She also had a diabetic "attack" if you will, at the same time. She was shaking and in a lot of pain. Some of the nurses thought she was having a seizure, but it was just that her blood sugar was dangerously low. They have her stabilized in the hospital now, but she will have to have surgery on one of the legs today. She is still not recovered from when she broke her hip and wrist last year. This is actually broken bones #6 and #7 in the last 2-3 years. She keeps having spills. It is so sad and hard to watch. My poor mom had to miss my sister's baby shower yesterday to take her to the emergency room. My mom is so used to that scene. So as you read this would you say a little prayer for Katherine (my granny) that she would come out of the surgery okay today. There's always a lot of risks putting an older person "under" when they have so many other health issues. And for my mom that she and dad would have grace to endure this road and the wisdom to know where to place my granny that will best for her. Thank you!
FYI- the kids and Chris made it home safely in the rain last night. I don't think I've ever been more nervous and concerned as I was last night. It was raining and late. I asked Chris to call me when they were tucked away safely in their beds so I could finally sleep. He called about midnight. I can't wait to see them this morning!!! Too long without my babies!! I'll tell you about my weekend later. Thanks for the prayers!
FYI- the kids and Chris made it home safely in the rain last night. I don't think I've ever been more nervous and concerned as I was last night. It was raining and late. I asked Chris to call me when they were tucked away safely in their beds so I could finally sleep. He called about midnight. I can't wait to see them this morning!!! Too long without my babies!! I'll tell you about my weekend later. Thanks for the prayers!
November 05, 2006
May the Force Be With You!
Here are my sweeties! They dressed up this year as Luke Skywalker and Princess Leia. How fun is that? One day when we had been putting Benjamin's costume together he looked at me and said, "Mom, why are you dressing me up like this?" It was so funny...like I was torturing him or something. So I told him that at this time of year people like to dress up in fun costumes and go to fall parties and carnivals. It's just silly and fun. So he replied, "That is SO cool!" He was all into after that...especially when he realized fall festivals consisted of candy, cake walks, candy, games, candy, bounce houses and more candy. He was sold!!
Here are some pictures of them on Tuesday night before we left for a fall festival. They had such a great time, and I did too! It will go down in the memory hall of fame, I think! Thanks Kat for inviting us.
May the Force be with you!!
Princess Leia
Luke Skywalker
What an arm! Throwing the ball and knocking down the milk bottles for a prize and too much candy. Don't tell my kids, but all that candy is not "all gone" rather it made it's way to the ladies retreat and sadly didn't find its way back to our house! Hee Hee! Hey, if I kept it here, I might have to go next year as Joba the Hut!
Fun times!!
Here are some pictures of them on Tuesday night before we left for a fall festival. They had such a great time, and I did too! It will go down in the memory hall of fame, I think! Thanks Kat for inviting us.
May the Force be with you!!
Princess Leia
Luke Skywalker
What an arm! Throwing the ball and knocking down the milk bottles for a prize and too much candy. Don't tell my kids, but all that candy is not "all gone" rather it made it's way to the ladies retreat and sadly didn't find its way back to our house! Hee Hee! Hey, if I kept it here, I might have to go next year as Joba the Hut!
Fun times!!
November 03, 2006
Funny
Benjamin - after lunch was given a package of "Smarties" as his treat. He looked at me and asked the inevitable question that all 4 year olds want to ask about Smarties. "Mommy, do they make you smart?"
Cait - called me to come hurry and look at her door. She pointed to a little tiny speck on the door, pretty low down. She said, "Mommy, I think that is runny nose." I think she was right. It looked like a dried booger! Guess I better up the cleaning around here, huh?
The kids LOVED going to school today. They were so anxious to get in the door... like they were going to miss out on something!! Thank you, Lord!
Cait - called me to come hurry and look at her door. She pointed to a little tiny speck on the door, pretty low down. She said, "Mommy, I think that is runny nose." I think she was right. It looked like a dried booger! Guess I better up the cleaning around here, huh?
The kids LOVED going to school today. They were so anxious to get in the door... like they were going to miss out on something!! Thank you, Lord!
The Weekend
Well, today the girls and I are off to Pine Cove Camp in Tyler, Texas for a little R and R. Well that's not all, but R and R is what I need to get some of this weekend, for sure. Our First Baptist Church of Parker's Ladies Retreat is this weekend. We're all so excited! It's not very often that moms can get away for the whole weekend, with no children and focus on God and growing friendships. It's going to be like an all weekend slumber party...at least it was last year.
Today, 6 of us girls are meeting at Julie's house. Julie, Jenni, Amber, me, Jennifer and Jenna. We are caravaning up to Tyler, but stopping in Canton on the way for a little shopping excursion. Too much fun! I have a whole morning of teaching ahead of me first before I get too excited, so I guess I better focus.
I have to come up with a Christmas program for 2 year olds, 3 year olds and then put together a play for 4 and 5 year olds. AHH! Not to mention I have 5 weeks left to pull it together! It's so hard to plan a "Christmas" program that NOTHING to do with Christ! I mean, what? Santa? Elves? Talk about empty and meaningless. At least I get to take my kids home and tell them again and again what Christmas is really about. They really only know who Santa is. They don't know the whole, "bringing toys down the chimney thing" or elves, reindeer, Rudolph stuff. So anyway...off I go to sing about working in Santa's shop! Bluh!
My kids are going out of town this weekend with Chris. He is taking them to his parent's house in Sugar Land. I know they will have fun. I know they will be loved on and cared for...but it's still going to be hard for me. As a mommy, it's hard to let them get too far away without you. If you think of us this weekend, pray for my kids safe travel there and back. Pray also that I will be at peace this weekend and be able to soak up all that's being taught. I also look so forward to growing in some new relationships and strengthening some old ones!! Talk to you when we get back. I hope you have a great weekend too!
Today, 6 of us girls are meeting at Julie's house. Julie, Jenni, Amber, me, Jennifer and Jenna. We are caravaning up to Tyler, but stopping in Canton on the way for a little shopping excursion. Too much fun! I have a whole morning of teaching ahead of me first before I get too excited, so I guess I better focus.
I have to come up with a Christmas program for 2 year olds, 3 year olds and then put together a play for 4 and 5 year olds. AHH! Not to mention I have 5 weeks left to pull it together! It's so hard to plan a "Christmas" program that NOTHING to do with Christ! I mean, what? Santa? Elves? Talk about empty and meaningless. At least I get to take my kids home and tell them again and again what Christmas is really about. They really only know who Santa is. They don't know the whole, "bringing toys down the chimney thing" or elves, reindeer, Rudolph stuff. So anyway...off I go to sing about working in Santa's shop! Bluh!
My kids are going out of town this weekend with Chris. He is taking them to his parent's house in Sugar Land. I know they will have fun. I know they will be loved on and cared for...but it's still going to be hard for me. As a mommy, it's hard to let them get too far away without you. If you think of us this weekend, pray for my kids safe travel there and back. Pray also that I will be at peace this weekend and be able to soak up all that's being taught. I also look so forward to growing in some new relationships and strengthening some old ones!! Talk to you when we get back. I hope you have a great weekend too!
November 02, 2006
The disappearing "r"
Last night I was sad to go to sleep. I couldn't really settle down. I lacked peace. I started quoting verses to myself about fear and trust in the Lord.
Finally, I drifted off to sleep.
The reason I lacked peace last night is because I knew this morning when I woke up I would have lost something. I knew that somewhere in the middle of the night I would loose an "r". I would go from a "Mrs." to a "Ms." Very depressing. To add to this, when I woke up, I was so tired. I did not want to get out of bed. Have you ever been so tired that you were nauseous? Yeah, that was today. I was starting a new job today!!! What was I thinking? Who starts a new job the day after their divorce is final? I should've taken the day off, right? Well, God is good. He knew what I needed. Sitting home in my pj's like a frump thinking about how my life is sad right now is NOT what I needed to do today. To add to my bummed mood, I had to wake my kids up, dress them, feed them and bundle them up, all in a manner that would not convey that I was rushing them. We went to the new school (which only took me 15 minutes instead of 30 like I planned..WooHoo!) and I prayed that the kids would be happy to go in their class and not be sad when mommy left them with a room full of strangers. They did great. *sheew*
In their new classes they played outside, colored, played in centers, had music class :-) and even ate lunch. When I picked them up they seemed very happy with their day. Talk about a blessing for their old mom!
My music classes today were full and many (11 total), but it was a good first day. Tomorrow will be even better, I bet. God has given this job to me for this season. When I see His goodness in the middle of all this chaos, I have hope. I have hope knowing that MY God will supply all my needs. He will not withhold any good gift from His children. I am His child. And He is taking care of me. I may not have wanted to start this day, but it has ended up pretty great. Thanks to Him. I'm just so grateful that He has given me a job where I only have to work half of a day and I get to bring my kids with me.
So here's the weekly schedule for those that care:
Monday - 3 Kindermusik classes (it will be 5 starting in the Spring)
Tuesday - Children's Park music and then 2 Kindermusik classes
Wednesday - Children's Park (and then 1 Kindermusik class starting in the Spring)
Thursday- Blue Ivy (new school)
Friday- Blue Ivy
I've been trying to post Fall Festival pics all afternoon and had no luck. Boo! I will persevere, however, so stayed tuned!
Finally, I drifted off to sleep.
The reason I lacked peace last night is because I knew this morning when I woke up I would have lost something. I knew that somewhere in the middle of the night I would loose an "r". I would go from a "Mrs." to a "Ms." Very depressing. To add to this, when I woke up, I was so tired. I did not want to get out of bed. Have you ever been so tired that you were nauseous? Yeah, that was today. I was starting a new job today!!! What was I thinking? Who starts a new job the day after their divorce is final? I should've taken the day off, right? Well, God is good. He knew what I needed. Sitting home in my pj's like a frump thinking about how my life is sad right now is NOT what I needed to do today. To add to my bummed mood, I had to wake my kids up, dress them, feed them and bundle them up, all in a manner that would not convey that I was rushing them. We went to the new school (which only took me 15 minutes instead of 30 like I planned..WooHoo!) and I prayed that the kids would be happy to go in their class and not be sad when mommy left them with a room full of strangers. They did great. *sheew*
In their new classes they played outside, colored, played in centers, had music class :-) and even ate lunch. When I picked them up they seemed very happy with their day. Talk about a blessing for their old mom!
My music classes today were full and many (11 total), but it was a good first day. Tomorrow will be even better, I bet. God has given this job to me for this season. When I see His goodness in the middle of all this chaos, I have hope. I have hope knowing that MY God will supply all my needs. He will not withhold any good gift from His children. I am His child. And He is taking care of me. I may not have wanted to start this day, but it has ended up pretty great. Thanks to Him. I'm just so grateful that He has given me a job where I only have to work half of a day and I get to bring my kids with me.
So here's the weekly schedule for those that care:
Monday - 3 Kindermusik classes (it will be 5 starting in the Spring)
Tuesday - Children's Park music and then 2 Kindermusik classes
Wednesday - Children's Park (and then 1 Kindermusik class starting in the Spring)
Thursday- Blue Ivy (new school)
Friday- Blue Ivy
I've been trying to post Fall Festival pics all afternoon and had no luck. Boo! I will persevere, however, so stayed tuned!
November 01, 2006
so much
So much has happened since my last post. First of all, my internet has been down since Sunday. Just taking a second to update on a friend's computer. Thanks for your prayers. This has been a sad, sad day. I cried the whole way to the courthouse and then it took 2 whole minutes to undo 8 years of marriage. The judge took the stand at 9:05 and I was in my car at 9:15.
Is this really happening?
God has poured out grace on me this week. I had a job interview for a second school to teach music. I got the position and start tomorrow. I'm grateful and so sad all at the same time. Five days a week away from home and my kids.
I'll tell you more later. I'll be on our church's Ladies Retreat this weekend and then my internet should be back up by Sunday (or so they say).
Thank you again for all the encouragement and prayers.
Is this really happening?
God has poured out grace on me this week. I had a job interview for a second school to teach music. I got the position and start tomorrow. I'm grateful and so sad all at the same time. Five days a week away from home and my kids.
I'll tell you more later. I'll be on our church's Ladies Retreat this weekend and then my internet should be back up by Sunday (or so they say).
Thank you again for all the encouragement and prayers.
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