Advent

One of the many things I'm thankful to Ryan for is the Advent tradition of his family. Our first Christmas after we were married, his parents brought us a yule log for our home, and every day of Advent we light a candle and have devotions. This is really priceless time in the midst of the holiday season. It has been fun to see our kids grow to appreciate this time, and I often find myself wishing I could freeze that moment, that time would stop, and we would be able to just sit there and keep singing Christmas carols and praying and snuggling up in the candlelight.

Advent means "coming". I wonder, what is "coming" next? We spend this season celebrating when the messiah came the first time - what's next on His agenda? I'm excited when I think about what God has in store. For me personally, I hope He comes and brings increased intensity of intimacy in my relationship with Him.

I had a rough moment when we put our Christmas tree up this year. In the Christmas stuff, I found an ornament I bought after the season last year. At the time we didn't know how completely everything in Guatemala would shut down, so I bought an ornament in case our daughter would be referred to us and had been born last year. I saw the box and just cried. Broken heart. Another Christmas without her here. Or close to being here. So I cried for a few moments, while my beautiful, biological daughter hugged me and assured me it was okay. And it is. The ornament is a baby in a cradle, and it had a sign on it that said, "baby's first Christmas". I took the sign off and put the ornament on the tree. She's here. In my heart. In Ryan's heart. In Madison's heart. In Michael's heart. Max, he's clueless :)
Here's the ornament on the tree:


So, I guess I am hoping, praying, and expecting, that our baby girl is another thing on God's agenda - something else that is coming. I'm hoping that next Christmas I'll put her ornament on the tree either with her help, or with her face in my mind. God is so vast, and so amazing, and His ways are not our ways. Who knows what he will do? Who knows what's coming?

Why I'm Here

I had one of those times last week. You know, those times when I asked, "Why am I here?" For me, when I ask that, it's in regard to "Why am I here in Mishawaka, Indiana, when I was willing to go be a missionary somewhere else?" I used to ask this question with a lot of anger and general ripped-offness (I know it's not really a word, but it expresses my feelings well), as well as depression and frustration. I don't ask it that way anymore. Jesus has healed much of that in me. And I don't daily ask this question, like I did at one point. Now it only occasionally rises up in me, and I ask it more with confusion, mixed with a little melancholy.

So last week, here it was. Before me again. Why? The questions were triggered by a couple of things. First, 2 men from our church just spent over a week in the Sudan, meeting some financial needs and surveying the situation to see what more our church could do. It's all very exciting - they made some great contacts, and were able to do some awesome things like buy motorcycles for people who walk hours a day to do things for the children's home and church, as well as fund fencing for property and the beginnings of a chicken farm. I see these African pastors working so hard for Jesus, and I just want to be there and help them. The orphans especially are "the least of these" and I just want to go mother them and care for them. The second thing that happened was we received a magazine from Back2Back Ministries (see the link at the left), the ministry I hoped God would send us to and also for whom our dear friends, the Coopers, work. I love this ministry and am AMAZED by all God has done there in such a short time. I wish it had been God's plan for us to be more involved in it all. The other thing that sometimes gets to me is I think that part of why we are here right now is so that we can bring a Guatemalan baby girl into our family. Needless to say, that has been a long haul with still more to go.

Well, this combination put me in a bit of a funk last Wednesday morning. The night before, we went and listened to the report from the Sudan, and it just pushed me to that questioning place again. Why here? Why now? Why not somewhere or something else?

When I check email that morning,there was a response to an email I had sent to a young woman at church. She had come up for prayer on a previous Sunday morning, and I was checking in with her. She was responding and sharing a little of what she's struggling with (which boils down to her needing Jesus), and ended the email by saying "please write back". So I did, and offered to meet with her, and to continue to pray. I also forwarded the info on to others who had been praying. Then I went and called my friend, who is going through a divorce. She's catholic, and knows a lot about that religion, but she doesn't seem to really know Jesus, or have a relationship with him. She had called me the day before to see if I could go to lunch, but I couldn't. So I called on Wednesday to see if she could go then. She said on Tuesday she was depressed, and her counselor was out of town, and her friends were sick of hearing about this situation with her marriage. I said that I would go to lunch, and that I wasn't sick of hearing about it. So we made lunch plans.

As I went back to get in the shower, I kind of laughed to myself. Here I am in a funk, and I'm going to go listen to my depressed friend? What good can I do for her today? Lord, there's nothing of me to give today, and maybe that will be to my friend's benefit - you'll have to work through me today, work through my weakness. Then, before I knew it, before they even registered in my brain, the words came out of my mouth, "Maybe this is why I'm here." And I instantly started bawling and the Holy Spirit cut through my heart, and I felt conviction. God said to me, "Who are you to decide who the 'least of these' are? I've put you in this place because this is where I want you, these people around you are needy as well. In some ways, an orphan in a Christian children's home in Africa is better off than your friend who thinks she knows me, but doesn't."

It's true and I know it. There are as many people in need here as there are there - am I taking time to be Jesus to them? I'm here, in this time and this place for a reason. There are not chance encounters happening here. Am I making the most of the divine appointments God has given to me? Am I planting the seeds he wants me to plant? Am I loving the people here - because these people need God's love.

Later that day, after having lunch with my friend, I stop at an intersection where an elderly man holds a sign saying he'll work for food. While I sit at the stoplight and look at him, I ask God, "What do you want me to do?" God says, "Help this guy." So I pull into the parking lot of the business where he's standing, and I get out, give him $9.00, and ask his name. I tell him mine, and then offer to pray. He was nothing but skin and bones, and he was so cold. I prayed God will help him know he was loved, that God saw him, and that God cared for him. I prayed that as the sun shone down on him, that he would feel the warmth of God's love.

And here's something I just realized as I typed that. I wouldn't have been at that intersection if I hadn't gone to lunch with my friend. One divine appointment led to another.

Why am I here? I'm here to send emails of encouragement, to listen to the broken-hearted, and to be a glimpse of love and hope to the cold and hopeless. I'm here to keep the appointments God has made. I'm here to pray and to cry and to love and to laugh. I'm here to smile and to give and to shine. I'm here to try to imitate Jesus, so that the people around me might see what he's really like. I'm here to live out in front of my children every day the life I claim is the one true path. I'm here to be a surrendered vessel that allows God to do whatever he wishes. I'm here to co-labor with Christ, and the cool thing is that I get to watch him do some incredible things. So I'll BE here, truly BE here, living out this life he's set before me. Living it out with the fullness of Christ and not just going through the motions. It's a privilege to be here. Thanks, Lord.

Random Thoughts Vol. 16

Yes, I do remember that I have a blog. To be honest, my blog is probably suffering due to my Facebook addiction. See, my blog requires that I form thoughts and then type them - Facebook has no such expectation of me. Plus Facebook allows me to almost daily chat with Jenny Harville. To my blog I can only say, "what have you done for me lately?" That was too harsh, sorry Blog!

Here are some random thoughts, no particular order. I'll say our family is still basking in the goodness of God concerning the contract extension for our adoption. I'm looking forward to the holidays now where as before I would say I wasn't so much. Can you believe only 36 more days until Christmas? Facebook told me that.

I don't have a whole lot to say about the election. I did not vote for the newly elected president, but I will pray for him. My sense about our country on a whole in a variety of ways is that the church needs to step up to the plate and start living this Christian life for real. It's the best way to show Christ to those around us. I'm challenged to think that I may be the only contact some people have with Jesus. So, I need to KNOW Jesus more and SHOW Jesus more!

Our daily lives are a smattering of running Max to preschool, homeschooling, music lessons, church, and then all the mundane things like groceries, laundry, and housecleaning. Probably why this random thoughts is as dull as it is.

This Sunday we will celebrate Thanksgiving with Ryan's family. On the actual day we will be at my mom's with some of my family. Who knows who will be there for sure? Thanksgiving, for reasons I won't go into, is not my favorite holiday. But Planes, Trains, and Automobiles is my favorite Thanksgiving movie. In spite of my lack of enthusiasm for the holiday, I, however, will say that I have much for which to be thankful, more than I could probably even list. God is good and extravagant!

Today I got a laugh when I saw this video on entertainment weekly's blog. Some day when the kids are gone from home Ryan and I will drive around and do this. Enjoy! Oh, and have a blessed Thanksgiving! Gobble, Gobble!

My God is Super Terrific Fabulous

God in his incredible goodness has done something fabulous and wonderful for me. Actually not just for me, but I feel special and loved just the same! We got an email from our adoption agency today that said the board has decided to extend the postponement contract until November 1, 2009. This is so awesome, because now instead of having only 3 months for Guatemala to have something in place, we know have a year. Praise God! This is a HUGE answer to prayer, and a reminder of how good and faithful He is! Thanks to all who have been praying with us, it is working!!!

I've Been Tagged

My friend, Rose, tagged my on her blog, meaning now you get more pointless trivia about me and my life.

8 things that happened yesterday:
1. I went to a crop with my friends.
2. I ate more junk food than I have in weeks.
3. Our kids watched The Wizard of Oz for the first time.
4. I got my family scrapbook caught up.
5. I got to chat for a long time on Facebook with Jenny Harville.
6. I paid the balance due on my scrapbooking weekend in January.
7. I laughed at the Tom Brokaw imitation on the SNL special.
8. I downloaded more music to my MP3 player.

8 favorite places to eat:
1. Logan's
2. Texas Roadhouse
3. Hacienda
4. Culver's
5. Doc Pierce's
6. the Chinese buffet by our house, I have no idea of the name.
7. Sonic (I went for the first time this week!)
8. Chili's

8 TV shows I love (like) to watch:
1. Lost
2. Amazing Race
3. Survivor
4. American Idol
5. The Office
6. Heroes
7. Biggest Loser
8. Seinfeld/Frasier reruns

8 things I am looking forward to:
1. God doing a miracle in our adoption.
2. Eating junk food and watching the super bowl (yes, I know it's a long way off)
3. The crop in January.
4. Working on my scrapbooks again, like later tonight.
5. Getting away with my family to somewhere (I should plan that...)
6. The next baseball season.
7. Reading THE SHACK.
8. Seeing what God has planned...he's so much better at plans than I am.

8 things on my wish list:
1. A baby girl in my home
2. A two week vacation with Ryan and the kids.
3. For it to be discovered that Coke has weight reducing properties, so drink up!
4. 12 hours alone at a prayer retreat center.
5. A housekeeper like Alice on the Brady Bunch.
6. A $500 gift card to Target or Kohl's - that would just be fun.
7. The ability to fly-or run super fast.
8. My kids to be as happy every day of their lives as they are today.

I won't tag anyone, just feel free to post your own thoughts in the comments.

Glimmers

Wow, I can't believe how long it's been since I posted! So much happens so fast sometimes. The last time I posted was after my 3 day whale belly fast. Well, I went on another trip to the whale belly the week following that one. I wish I could describe what it's like when I go there. I seem just more AWARE. I'm not going through life on auto-pilot, I'm thinking more about what I do, what I say, what I believe, etc. And I'm much more teachable. The second time I went in the whale belly, I fasted not just from food, but from media - tv and computer mostly. I should do such things much more often. The purpose of the fast was to learn what it means to REMAIN IN HIM. I spent a lot of time in John 15, reading about being a branch connected to the vine, and about how remaining in him is about love. Loving him and loving others. And loving others in the same way that he has loved me.

The third and final night of the fast, I was bored (Ryan was gone)and I didn't think I had it in me to read anymore (I love reading, and I was reading a great book by John Wimber, but my brain needed a break!) So, I watched a video a friend loaned me. It was a documentary, made by a man who was curious as to why God does supernatural things. He went to all these different places where the Lord had been moving in supernatural ways and recorded and observed things. At the end, he essentially comes to the conclusion that God does these things out of his love.

There is that word again. In my journal that night, I asked, "Papa, is it really that simple? Is it really all about love?" He said to me, "My love isn't simple, but my command is. It really comes down to that one thing." Then he said to me, "Dawn, I have loved you with an everlasting love. Do you hear the words I say?" I told him yes.

But you know what? I DIDN'T really hear the words he said. I realized this four days later when praying with a friend at church. See, I thought everlasting was in regard to TIME - like lasting forever in a sense it never stops. But while praying for something else, a light bulb came on, and I realized that God was telling me it was everlasting in regard to QUANTITY - like a supply that never gives out (this understanding came after a reference to the feeding of the 5000). God was telling me, he has loved me with an everlasting love - a love where the supply never runs out, there is always enough. That's the love he gives me and wants me to give to others. As I'm attached to the vine of his love, I have an endless supply to give away to others. So I need to get giving it!

The day after I figured all of this out, a new email came from our adoption agency. It had in it a glimmer of hope. To some it up, the idea in the previous email was you CAN wait out the postponement, but nothing will probably change by then. The new email said you MAY want to wait out the postponement and see if there are changes. It may not seem like much, but it's a glimmer. A glimmer that a couple of weeks ago wasn't there, but God asked me to have the faith for it. When I read the email, I smiled with God. I believe he's going to do it - and when he does, I'll be so thankful that I was with him and trusting him the whole time, even when it looked impossible. I guess that's what faith is.

Gut Reactions

Well, I spent three days in the belly of the great fish, and I've now been urped onto the shore. My circumstances haven't changed, in fact, by earthly perspectives they may have even deteriorated, but I'm not going there. My prayer perspective has changed, and that is good.

The biggest change has been in my perspective of to whom I am praying. At times in our adoption process, I have literally BEGGED and pleaded for God to do something. I was doing this earlier this week. During my fast, God revealed to me that when I was begging, I was approaching him like a distant king, one who does not really know what his subjects are going through, or necessarily cares. It was like I was groveling for mercy at the feet of one who could care less what happens to me. This is what I was doing, this was the God I was praying to in certain moments. God told me, "Why don't you talk to me like I'm your friend who has influence and ability to help you in your need? Stop begging me like I don't care, and talk to me like you would a friend who can help you."

That's not all he had to say about this approach. He also told me, "Come crawl on your father's lap and tell me what you want." My relationship with God has always been based on him being my father. I have fully embraced that type of relationship with him. But I realized that I often hold back telling him things I want, because I don't really have the faith that he's willing to give what I ask. He said to me, "Come here and tell me exactly what you want, because it could be that I want to give you what you ask for, and I can't give it if you don't ask." The feeling was like a Christmas list - I want to give you exactly what you want because I love you, so tell me what you want.

So I told him. Everything. I specifically asked for the whole kit and kaboodle. I prayed for perfection. No holds barred. I told my influential friend, my loving father who wants to give, I told him everything. I made every request. I even complained. And argued. And questioned. And pleaded - to my close friend, not a distant king. And I cried. And I expressed every concern, confusion, frustration, and disappointment I thought of, and I laid it all on the line. And I continue to hear my friend and father ask me, "Will you wait here with me? Will you be here with me? Even when it seems impossible, will you remain in my hope, trust in my goodness, believe in my power? Will you stay?"

Even as I type this I'm hearing the verses, "if you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish and it will be given you." (John 15:7) See, I think he's calling me to be a true fan, not a bandwagon believer. As a Cubs fan, I've experienced heartbreak and frustration, but I'm always faithful to cheer for them above all others. There is no other team for me. It drives me crazy when these bandwagon Cubs fans come out of the woodwork during their good years, and bash them in the off years. How much can those fans possibly mean to the team? I guarantee not even remotely as much as the faithful who have stood through the dry spells and the disappointment.

He wants me to remain, to trust, to hope, to dream, to believe in his goodness, to be his fan above all others, whether it feels, looks, or sounds good or not. And you know, at the end of this week, after my fast was over, sitting on the bathroom floor in our bedroom, after crying and praying for about an hour, I realized something - I'm there.

As hard as it is to do, and as ridiculous as it might seem, I'm choosing to believe that he will do this miracle. Nothing on this earth right now tells me to do this. In fact, this earth does nothing but speak death to this place. But Jesus is life, not death. His kingdom is not of this world. His ways are higher than my ways. He is hope for the hopeless. And he tells me, why not try this out? Why not ask me for a miracle and then stick around to see if I do it?

The challenge is overcoming my flesh. My fleshly brain has trouble wrapping my head around the miraculous. But Jesus is my friend and he understands this (he himself came here and used a fleshly brain). So he's going to help me. The other challenge is overcoming my pride. I don't like to fail and I don't like to look foolish. I'm afraid to say "God's going to do a miracle" because what if he doesn't. Well, to say the least, I just have to get over that fear and that pride. I have to give it over to Jesus, because how can he do miraculous things for those who have too much fear and pride to ask for them?

So, here's hoping for a miracle. From where I sit right now, God has until February 1, 2009, to change everything (eta - this is the date our postponement contract expires). I'm believing and mostly REALLY REALLY hoping, he will do it (I have NO DOUBT he is able!). In all this I know that on February 2, 2009, I could end up devasted, flat on my face, and grieving. But so what? I may look like a fool, but I'll be a fool for Christ, and that I will count as a privilege. There will be no regrets, only resolve. Resolve to believe that he is still good, he is still loving, and he is still for us. Resolve to continue following him to the sweet end. Resolve to continue asking for miracles and to still believe he will answer prayer.

I will remain. With no regrets. Only resolve.

Looking For Life

I'm looking for life today. I'm looking for life in our adoption. I'm looking for God's life, God's power, God's ability to resurrect the dead, to breathe life into the lifeless. As we wait out this situation, God speaks to me. I love the things he says. He's been very gracious and kind to me and taught me so much during this whole process. The problem is, what he says is hard to believe because of what is happening, which is nothing. God assures me I will have a daughter. I even feel like he's assured me she will be Guatemalan. But Guatemala isn't cooperating with God right now. So the reality and truth APPEAR to be that it won't happen. BUT, what I want to live by and what I want to trust in is GOD'S REALITY and GOD'S TRUTH, which is a challenge for my human flesh. I need an increase of faith, a faith that is bigger than my human mind can comprehend. A faith that believes in and dwells on what it cannot see.

As I contemplated this last night and prayed about this situation (as it seems some decisions might be made soon), I felt called to pray and fast. And for some reason I felt led to do it for 3 days. Jesus spent 3 days in the tomb, Jonah spent 3 days in the belly of a great fish, so I guess I'm going to spend 3 days in a tomb/belly of sorts. My expectation is that my perspective will have changed once I get urped on the shore. My hope is that there is resurrection life following it. I'm expecting God to do something supernatural in the natural and change everything.

But what if he doesn't? He asked me this last night. I had been at prayer group at church and during that time of prayer told God I would run, crawl, claw my way to be deeper in him. So when I came home and read an email that information would be coming later this week from Guatemala, he asked me, "what if it doesn't happen?"

Here's all I have to say: Whether God ever does one good thing for me ever again or not, I will still crawl, claw, bite, fight, run, wrestle my way to his presence. AND I WILL PRAISE HIM, for he is the God who loved me when there was no reason to, never left me even when I was rebelling, took my trash and gave me treasure, took my pain and gave me healing, took my shame and gave me an inheritance, took my life and gave me eternity. It's so much more than I deserve to be given, and contains none of what I truly did deserve.

So here I go, down the gullet of the fish, into the belly, the tomb, to face whatever he brings before me and to come out of it changed. And in his extravagant goodness I'm hoping that not just will I be changed, but so will my circumstances. Either way, I love him.

Cabin Fever

If there were a prize for who blogs first about an event, my friend Arin would have won. She beat me to the blog to post about our cabin-out at Potato Creek last weekend. It's not a camp out, because we stayed with their family in one of the Potato Creek cabins. I won't say why we choose a cabin this year instead of tent camping. I wouldn't want to make anyone feel whimpy. Especially since that anyone came with a broken/sprained foot ankle problem, and went on hikes and bike rides with his family, which is the exact opposite of whimpy. So I won't even mention Danny. I mean...

I digress. Let me start over. This was our third trip to Potato Creek with a wonderful family that in our home is referred to as the STEVE HOLTS! This is an Arrested Development reference that I don't think they get, but Ryan and I enjoy it all the same. I love being with the Steve Holts, because they are so laid back about what we do while we're there. I never worry that they'll be offended if we go or don't go with them somewhere, they share whatever they have (as do we), they help us with our kids - it's just a great set-up. I also could sit and talk to Arin for hours. And I think I did. If I wasn't talking to Arin, I was EATING. I don't know what the deal was, but for some reason having a full kitchen in our cabin meant we should eat non-stop. And not just eat, eat JUNK. We did eat good food while there (Chicken Fajitas, hello!), but when there are twinkies, star crunch, and mountain dew in the same room, that is indulgence.

It was a great weekend that made me thankful for my great family, for great Christian friends, for the beauty of God's creation, and for time away. Thanks for the memories, Steve Holts, the Michael Morehouses love you!

Here's a couple pictures of us hanging out in the cabin:


Here's a picture of all the kids:

One Dozen

For 12 years I've had the privilege and pleasure of being married to Ryan. I never knew marriage could be such an incredible blessing! Ryan is a person who feeds my soul, and I get to be with him not just now, but forever. I'm so grateful for his stability, his adaptability, his compassion, his humor, and his giving heart. Ryan, I'm filled with deep joy, passion, and unconditional love for you.

First Day of Preschool

Today wasn't just Michael's special day, it was a special day for Max. Today was his first day of preschool at Bright Horizons. He looked super cute and was super sweet as we dropped him off and picked him up. He was tired, but he had a good time. He seemed surprised when I said he was going back tomorrow - but I think it was an excited surprised. We're so proud of him, and we all enjoy him so much! It's fun to see him off on new adventures.

Michael's Big Day

Today was Michael's big day! I can't believe he's seven. Last night we watched a video of when he was a baby, and it seems like a million years ago! He's so special to us and I'm so thankful for him! We had a party for him last Saturday, which included a trip to the Hesston Train Museum with Ryan, Grandpa Morehouse, Max, and 2 of Michael's friends. Here are the four boys on one of the little steamers:

Here they are in a caboose:

When we went to pick out decorations for Michael's party, we saw decorations for patriotic parties. Michael loves the Statue of Liberty, and Washington Monument, as well as other architecture. So, we decided to have an American birthday party, and it was perfect for him! Here he is with his cake, and the poster of the Capital building behind him.

And here are all the kids in front of the Statue of Liberty poster:

Happy Birthday, my sweet boy! I love you!

Life

I'm officially 36 years old! Funny, but it doesn't feel much different than 35. But, I am now on that downward spiral to 40. But I'm okay with that.

I had a great day. It began with the kids waking me up with presents - bubble bath, a candle, and a book light. They also brought the gift Ryan bought me, which was an MP3 player. Very fun! Then I headed to church and enjoyed a great time of prayer and worship, as well as a good message, and a Will Ferrell cowbell playing impersonation by our pastor. Classic! Then I headed to lunch with my family, Mom Deak, and Ed (aka Debbie). We enjoyed a great lunch at Logan's. I was able to have a great talk with Debbie, and then I enjoyed playing with my new MP3 player. I liked just playing around, chatting online with Jenny Harville, reading all the birthday wishes on Facebook, and being with my family. After I finish this I'm going to work on my scrapbooks for a while.

I took this timer shot of me and my family, because they are such an important part of why my life is so great. God has used them to be such a source of joy to me. I'm so grateful for each one of them. Above all this day, however, I'm so grateful to my God. He's been so good and so gracious. I praise him today for every good thing he's ever given me, and for every good thing he wants to give me from now on until eternity. What a privilege to be his child, his servant, and his friend. Thank you, Lord, for life - this one and the one to come!

Good Stuff

Here is the picture from the first day of school that I wanted to post last time. When I was trying to retrieve it from the camera, the computer couldn't detect the camera. When Ryan tried, it was all right there. You gotta love it.

So here are my beautiful, creative, sweet, fun, spiritually-sensitive children. I absolutely love them. Who am I that God would be so good?

I've been amazed lately by the goodness of God. I can't believe how often He chooses to be extravagant with us. For example, Monday night Ryan and I were praying about the soccer schedule. All three kids had practice on different nights, which just felt like a lot. I had called during the day Monday to see if it was possible to switch someone, but the person I needed to speak to wasn't in that day. So, we prayed about it, and told God that we wanted the kids to have the team and the coaches that HE wanted them to have, and if that meant 3 different nights, then we would do it. So, I just left it as it was, I didn't try to call again. But right before leaving for Max's practice, the lady called me and said that she could switch Madison to practice at the same time as Michael. I asked who the coach was, and she told me his name. He is one of the coaches Madison had last year, and we LOVED those coaches. God worked it all out, not just for the better, but for the BEST. That is good stuff!

Recently, I said to God, "You've been so good already, how can you keep wanting to do more?" God said to me, "Do you get tired of doing good things for your children?" Of course NOT! Like I would say to Michael, "Well, seven years seems like long enough to do good for you, I hope the rest of your life works out." NO WAY! I will do as much good, give my best to them, as long as I am able. I'm so humbled to think that God views me the same way. HE IS SO AMAZING, so merciful, so kind, and so, so, so very good to me. And I love Him!

Random Thoughts Vol. 15

Where does the time go? It seems like just last week summer had started, now it's winding up. We started school yesterday, and I would love to post the picture of the kids that I took, but for some reason the computer can't detect the camera. I can't believe that we have a 4th grader and a 2nd grader. Plus, starting next week we'll have a preschooler. It seems unbelievable to me.

This week soccer starts and all three kids will be playing. It's going to be a busy 6 weeks, but I'm glad that they get to play, especially Max since it's his first year.

Speaking of Max, I took him last week to get a physical for preschool and they tested his hearing. Two and a half years ago I sat in a room and watched him miss all but the loudest frequency of sounds due to the amount of fluid in his ears due to infection. The fluid dissipated without tubes, but it took about 6 months. Last week, the nurse said he heard every sound at every level, and most kids his age do not. I said, "that's all GOD!" which it is. How extravagant of our Lord to restore Max's hearing completely, not just make it so he didn't need tubes, which is all I asked from him. God is soooooo good!

We're gearing up for lots of celebrating here at our house. My birthday is Sunday, Michael's is next Tuesday, and then our wedding anniversary is the 7th. We are so blessed and have so much for which to be thankful. On Saturday we will have a birthday party for Michael. Everything about it will be so Michael, which I love. I love that he is a unique individual! I'll be sure to post all about the party and about Michael!

What Made Me Laugh Today

Okay, I'm posting this because I was CRACKING UP watching it. Some of you allergy sufferers might actually be inspired by this woman.

Love It

Thanks to Ryan for telling me about this. Ridiculous!

Funny Stuff

One of the many pieces of knowledge I gained from my weekend with the Jennys was the existence of the Christian comedian, Tim Hawkins. Apparently, I'm behind the times in regards to this. Anyway, I've enjoyed watching videos on Youtube and his website. Here are 2 of his song parodies, the first one being my favorite since it's about homeschooling (we are homeschoolers with a healthy sense of humor, just like Tim Hawkins himself). The second is a great take on a Carrie Underwood hit. My favorite part of the second one is the guy in the background. In the first video, Hawkins and his wife play the parents, and in the second one, Hawkins is the lead singer. Thanks to the Jennys for educating me, and I hope you enjoy a good laugh.

Fabulous Friends

This weekend was another great friend weekend for me, this time with my high school friends, Cheri and Debbie. On Friday, Debbie and I drove to Carmel, picked up Cheri and headed into Indy to go to the Women of Faith conference. We had just a fun and relaxing time together, and I'm so glad we went. Cheri allowed us to stay at her house, which saved us paying for a hotel. Her husband took their son and went to visit family - should we take this personally? Just kidding! I loved being with the two of them and praising Jesus with them. That was a first for the 3 of us, and it was celebrated by us all. The picture is at Conseco Field House, and we asked some other woman to take it with Cheri's cell phone. Thanks for the great weekend, girls! I love you!

Weekend With Jennys

This past weekend two of my wonderful college friends came to my house to visit. Jenny and Jenny were juniors who tolerated me as a freshman. It had been about 5 years since I had seen Potts, and 14 years since I'd seen Harv. But I have to say, the weekend felt like college was just yesterday. That's what happens when you have friendships based on Jesus - they are eternal! I laughed so much this weekend, plus just had some wonderful conversations, as well as a beautiful time of prayer. Thanks so much for coming, Jennys! I love you both!

Madison and Michael took these pictures for us! I cropped Madison's, but I left Michael's as it was because it brought a smile to my face.

Random Thoughts Vol. 14

Welcome again to Random Thoughts. The summer has been busy and is flying by, so there is plenty of random floating around.

Last weekend was our neighborhood garage sale. I have a love/hate relationship with the garage sale. I love getting stuff cleaned out of my house, love getting money for the junk I wanted out of my house, but I hate all the work. It went well, and I'm glad it's over. As a result of the garage sale, we did a lot of cleaning and sorting in the basement, a good by-product of the sale.

Sunday afternoon Ryan and I left and went to Indy by ourselves for a couple of days. Ryan's parents kept the kids for us. We had a great time eating at restaurants we normally wouldn't go to, visiting art museums, and seeing The Dark Knight. I love that Ryan is still the friend I love to be with more than anyone. Here's a view from the canal that we walked along:

We also got a good look at the outside of the new Colts stadium:

And here's a cool stained glass window at the Indianapolis Musuem of Art (which has free admission, by the way):

As wild and fun as last weekend was (garage sale, Celtic dancing, Indy trip), this weekend could top it. Two of my college friends, Jenny & Jenny (yes they have the same name and it's making it very hard on Ryan), are coming to my house to visit. I haven't seen the one Jenny for about 5 - 6 years, and I can't remember the last time I saw the other Jenny. It's been at least since I graduated from college, which was 14 years ago. They haven't seen each other for a couple of years either, so it will be quite the reunion. And, we owe it all to Facebook! So, tune in next week for a synopsis of the weekend of the Jennys! It should be a hoot!

My final random thought is a quote I found when cleaning out the basement bookshelves. It's from a woman named Judith C. Lechman.

When we throw ourselves into religious activities without having made our life one of prayer, we run into danger. Our days and nights are filled with teaching or printing a newsletter, working in an outreach program or a food bank, an inner-city rehabilitation project or on lobbying efforts. We feel we are doing the Lord's work, and perhaps we are. But we will never know unless we take the time to listen to his voice and be certain we are following his promptings and not ambitious ones that start in self. We must always ask ourselves whether we are working to please God or to satisfy our own need for achieving results.

Merriment

A lovely couple from our church got married last month in a small ceremony, and tonight was the big reception for all their friends and family. It was very fun! On the invitation it said it would be a night of Celtic music and MERRIMENT. Who can say no to that? They asked Ryan and I to join a group of people who were learning some Celtic dances ahead of time in order to be able to demonstrate them at the reception. To my surprise, Ryan agreed. We had a ball learning the dances, and a great time doing them tonight. It was a once in a lifetime experience, and I'm so thankful and honored to have been a part of it all.

Convicting Quote

While I was cleaning out my bedroom, I found this quote I had copied onto a sheet of notebook paper. It's a powerful one!

"In every Christian's heart there is a cross and a throne, and the Christian is on the throne till he puts himself on the cross; if he refuses the cross he remains on the throne. Perhaps this is at the bottom of backsliding and worldliness among gospel believers today. We want to be saved, but we insist that Christ do all the dying. No cross for us, no dethronement, no dying. We remain king within the little kingdom of Mansoul and wear our tinsel crown with all the pride of a caesar; but we doom ourselves to shadows and weakness and spiritual sterility." A.W. Tozer

An Actual Parents' Room

Yesterday we painted our bedroom. I'm so glad to have it done. I had been wanting to do it for a while now, so seeing it finished is very gratifying. When we had finished the first coat of paint, Michael came to look at it and said, "I like it! It looks like an actual parents' room!" I don't know what it looked like before, but since we've been parents for over nine years, I'm glad to finally have a room that fits the part. Michael also very sweetly told me later he was so glad I got my room painted, and that now everyone's room had been painted. All three kids were excited for new colors, even Max, and Madison was excited about all the pillows on the bed! In order to paint, we moved our bed to the living room, so the whole time we painted the kids enjoyed watching tv while lying on it, and just the overall fun of a queen size bed in the middle of the room. Next project: Getting stuff ready for the neighborhood garage sale next weekend!

Random Thoughts Vol. 13

It's been a while since I've posted some random thoughts, so there are quite a few brewing in my head! So, away we go!

I absolutely loved this past weekend! It was just such a great weekend for the five of us. I just feel so blessed to have this wonderful husband and these amazing kids!

Since there isn't anything exciting on tv to watch (except Wipeout, which our kids love, and I survived a Japanese game show, which Ryan and I love), my new time waster is Facebook. It's not my fault. I was sucked in by two college friends. They got me hooked on these Facebook games. I try to justify it by chatting with one of them if they are online at the same time, but it's still pathetic that I can't stop playing word twist. But, there is value in it, because I haven't seen these 2 friends for YEARS, and now, due to Facebook, we're back in contact, and the 2 of them are coming to visit me in a couple of weeks. So, look forward to more information on the 2 Jennys coming to Mishawaka. Ryan said, "what will you do when they are here, we only have 2 computers..."

On a much more significant note, I've recently read 2 fabulous books on prayer. The first one is called The PAPA Prayer by Larry Crabb. If you feel like your prayer life could use some depth, I highly recommend this book. The whole point is about getting past yourself and closer to God so that when you pray, you are praying God's heart and will. The second one is Intercessory Prayer by Dutch Sheets. This book changed my mindset and has empowered my prayer life! The most important thing I read in it was that it's not a power problem, it's an authority problem. Jesus has all the power he needs, he's waiting on us to relinquish authority to him so that he can do what he wills. This entire book was such a blessing, and I highly recommend it.

Another new past time for me is watching internet video and reading on the internet about the Holy Spirit breakouts in Florida and South Carolina. If your faith needs stretched, check out Fresh Fire Ministries and Morningstar Ministries. God is on the move, people!

When I get time, I'm going to post what God has been speaking to me about our adoption. It's good stuff, but I need to take some time to put it all together. The situation is still the same, but I choose to dwell on what I do not see, the instruction God gave me months ago through a prophetic word from a friend. (I think I wrote a post about this, frosting on the cupcake of life)

Finally, a funny kid story. Yesterday, Max fell asleep on the couch in the afternoon. I was putting laundry away, and I saw him wake up and get up to go to the bathroom (or so I thought). But when I came out of my bedroom, the bathroom was empty. I got another stack of laundry and headed back and decided to look in Max's room. When I looked in, he was sitting on the floor, in the middle of a circle car track. I thought, oh, he must be playing. Then I looked again, and realized that his pants were down, he was sitting on them, and he was peeing. In the middle of the floor. In his room. And didn't realize it. I said, "Max, that's not the potty, that's your room!" So I herded him to the real potty, he's still so tired he doesn't know what's going on, and when I bring him dry pants, he gets up, turns to flush, and starts giggling. He finally realized what he did, and was able to laugh about it when Dad came home : )

Bonus

Today I went to brunch with 3 of my high school friends. I think it's pretty cool that 18 years later we're still in contact with each other. In the picture, I'm slouching next to Amy, in order to not look tall. I met Amy in 7th grade at age 12. I spent a lot of time at her house, along with other friends of Amy and her two brothers. Amy's parents never acted like it was an imposition, everyone was welcome. Amy and her family still hold a special place in my heart because of that.

Next to Amy is Cheri, who I met in kindergarten. We were assigned to the same seat on the school bus. Soon I will have known her for 31 years, which is really too much to think about!! Cheri is the one who allowed my kids and me to stay with her while we were working on some dossier stuff in Indy last year. I was so grateful for a place to stay and a good friend to talk to in the midst of the mania of that trip. Her generosity at that time will be part of the legend of our adoption story.

By Cheri is Debbie, AKA Ed. Please don't ask why I call her Ed, because try as I might, I am incapable of making the story interesting, so people listen and then there's this sense of regret for asking. I met Debbie in 6th grade, and through all this time she has been a faithful friend and an uncompromising Christ-follower. Everyone should have a Debbie to help them during junior high and high school. I know it made my life better.

Many people would consider having just one of these friends to be a great thing. I have had the privilege of all three, so I feel like I received a bonus. I think God knew I would need it when I was younger, and appreciate it when I was older. And the truth is, I do. So today, I'm grateful to God for these women, who knew me as a girl, and stuck with me anyway. I love you all!

Independence Day

I hope you had a great Fourth of July! We had a wonderful day as a family that included museums, cheesecake, brats on the grill, and fireworks. I'm looking forward to the rest of the weekend!

A couple of years ago I tutored a Venezulan couple who wanted to improve their English. Spending time talking to them really helped me to see my country from a new perspective. I have much to be thankful for because of living in the United States. May God shed His grace far and wide in this land!

The pictures are from when we went to fireworks in North Liberty tonight. I was taking pictures of everyone before it started, and Ryan asked if I wanted my picture taken. I said not by myself, so I asked Michael to take a picture of Ryan, Max, and Me. So, below is effort #1. I could tell that I wasn't in the picture and I'm just about to say something when he snaps it. The blob of red on Ryan's lap is Max. He wasn't very excited about the fireworks!

A Great Gift

Today is Ryan's birthday. What a gift he is to me and to the kids! Outside of my relationship with God, there is nothing more precious to me than this man. When God gave me Ryan, He didn't give me what I asked for - He gave me beyond what I could have imagined. Happy Birthday, Rhine! Every day with you is a great gift to me!

Diligent

I haven't written much about our adoption lately. Honestly, since we receive little to no information, there isn't much to report. Also, since life goes on while we are waiting, I haven't been as focused on it all. After we got back from vacation, and school was done for summer, I realized that I haven't been praying as much about it, and I haven't worked on some of my adoption projects (like the scrapbook). I've just been kind of in neutral gear. It's never far from my mind, but I'm not as emotionally engaged in it all right now.

So, last week I was seeking the Lord's encouragement, and as always, I found He had much to say, and that it spoke straight to my heart.

I asked the Holy Spirit last week to speak to me about our adoption, and I felt the Lord tell me, "Commit your way to the Lord", which to me, is encouragement to pray. I was reading scripture and in Psalm 13:3 I read the phrase, "Give light to my eyes..." I felt that I should pray and ask God to continue to bring light to my eyes concerning our adoption, since we can't SEE anything happening. He then led me to Proverbs, a book I seldom read, and in chapter 13, verse 4, I read: "The sluggard craves and gets nothing, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied." Needless to say, I felt convicted to keep praying.

If that wasn't enough, I went to flip my perpetual calendar, and here was the quote for the day: "A delayed answer to a persistent prayer teaches us all that God's timing is perfect and we must be faithful to continue in prayer and not grow weary in waiting." Okay, Lord, message received!

According to Webster's, DILIGENT means "characterized by steady, earnest, and energetic application and effort; painstaking." So, this is the type of prayer I am pursuing, in hopes that the "desires of the diligent will be fully satisfied." Please make it so, Lord!

My New Favorite Sport

Okay, I had heard about rock, paper, scissor (RPS) tournaments, but this was my first time actually viewing it. I must say, the announcers make it all worth it. I laughed out loud! So, here for your viewing pleasure is the final match of the 2007 RPS Tournament. Enjoy!

31 Things About Me

My friend Susan sent me this survey in an email, and I decided to post it here. It was actually 50 things, but for the sake of space and boring people to death, I cut it down to 31. I'm sure you needed more pointless information about me.

1. Do you like bleu cheese? If the word cheese is involved, count me in!

2. Have you ever smoked heroin? No, like it's your business!

3. What flavor do you add to your drink at Sonic's? I haven't been there, but rumor has it one is coming to my side of town. Cha-ching!

4. Do you get nervous before doctor appointments? Only if I was smoking heroin beforehand, I MEAN, not usually.

5. What do you think of hot dogs? They are best eaten at a baseball game.

6. Can you do push ups? When I read this, I thought it was refering to popsicles, so that tells you about how many push ups I can do.

7. Do you have A.D.D.? I'm sorry, I wasn't listening...

8. Middle name? Irene

9. Name 3 thoughts at this exact moment. I hate my middle name. It was my grandma's middle name, though. At least I didn't get her first name: Mildred.

10. Name 3 drinks you regularly drink. Coke, coke, and coke.

11. Current worry right now? Do I drink too much coke?

12. Current hate right now? Guilt over drinking too much coke.

13. Favorite place to be? On vacation anywhere with Ryan and the kids, and I'm drinking a coke.

14. How did you bring in the New Year? With a group of friends at our house have a hilarious night of playing games.

15. Like to go camping? ABSOLUTELY

16. Do you own slippers? Yes, and I think everyone should and that they should replace shoes as socially acceptable footwear.

17. Do you like sleeping on satin sheets? No. I have a great story that involves me, an overweight invalid woman, and satin sheets, so if you're ever bored I can share it with you.

18. Would you be a pirate? Is that option available? I'm not so much for long boat trips.

19. What songs do you sing in the shower? Worship songs, and man, do I sound good!

20. Last thing that made you laugh? Madison asked for a piece of gum, and within 2 minutes she had accidentally swallowed it because she forgot it was gum and not food.

21. Best bed sheets as a kid? ? Charlie Brown and Peanuts

22. Who is your loudest friend? Let me point out that when my friend Susan sent this to me, her answer here was "Dawn". I'm assuming she meant a different Dawn.

23. What is your favorite book? To Kill a Mockingbird, The Hiding Place

24. What is your favorite candy? Reese's Peanut Butter Cups

25. Favorite Sports Team? Chicago Cubs - I'll say no more to avoid any curses on how well they are doing

26. What were you doing at 12 AM last night? Surfing the internet to find a place for Ryan and I to go for a couple of days while his parents keep our kids.

27. Worst habit? Late night snacking

28. Do you play an instrument? "Are you kidding, I've played bassinet for years!" That's for all of you Spongebob fans!

29. How long does it take you to get to work? I instantaneously arrive there when I open my eyes in the morning.

30. Plans for the weekend? Helping out my dad, going to play games with some friends, church, and lunch with my father-in-law

31. If you could eat anything in the world right this second? A Reese's Peanut Butter Cup, thanks alot Number 24!

Random Thoughts Vol. 12

Hi everyone! I have a plethora of random thoughts in my head, so here we go!

One of my favorite parts of our vacation was that in the car I would read aloud to Ryan from a book called The Final Quest by Rick Joyner. Since it wasn't very long, we were able to complete the whole book. It's about a prophetic dream that Rick Joyner had over a period of time, and it's a truly fascinating book. I was glad to have read it, and glad that Ryan and I were able to experience it together. I recommend it to anyone who likes things of prophetic interest. It was amazing!

Last Saturday, since we missed it due to vacation, I watched the season finale of Lost online. I watched it not only once, but twice. I could hardly wait to watch it, so I watched it in the afternoon alone, and again that night with Ryan. My personal opinion - I LOVED IT. It was a very satisfying end to the season, and set up for next year. I will greatly miss the show, but Heroes will be back in the fall, so that will make things better. Since I don't want to be a spoiler, I will cryptically say to those of you who watch Lost, I DID NOT until I saw for myself, know who was in that coffin. Yeehaw!!!

On Sunday, my nephew, Josh, graduated from high school. For those who know my family, Josh is my brother John's son. So, I made my second trip back to Jimtown High since I graduated from there myself 18 years ago. We were all so proud of Josh, and glad to share this day with him. Here's our family with Josh after the ceremony. (Mom Deak, Josh, John, John's girlfriend Michelle, Amy, Mark, Ryan, and Brenda in back; Chris and I are in front).

Madison's spring piano recital was last night. She's doing a great job, and it's fun to see her perform. It amazes me that she doesn't get nervous. Beforehand, she was just so excited to go. Here's a picture of her playing a piece with another student, and her teacher.

Finally, today I had my dad over for coffee since he's birthday was last week while we were gone. My sister Chris came as well, and when she did, she brought me this huge bouquet of peonies from their farm. They have huge peony bushes at their house, and they are so gorgeous. I love the color of the ones she brought me, and they have such a sweet and wonderful smell. I have such great sisters!

Back From Vacation

Well, we made it back from vacation. We had a wonderful time! We got back last Friday afternoon, but I'm just now making time to post some pictures. On Memorial Day, we headed to Cincinatti, ans spent the evening hanging out at the hotel. Since the weather was rainy the next day, we went to The Creation Museum just over the border in Kentucky. It was a fascinating place, and we all really enjoyed it. The kids liked it even more than I expected. Everything there was really well done, and we all learned a lot. They have beautiful gardens outside, and I was able to purchase some curriculum to use for home school next year.

The next day the weather was perfect and we headed to King's Island. It had been 14 years since I had been to this amusement park, and I'm sure the last time I never even entered the kid's area. Michael was so excited to see the one third replica of the Eiffel Tower, and he couldn't stop talking about it. The kid's area is has Nickolodean characters, and we were all excited about the various Spongebob characters. It was fun to see the older kids, especially Michael, try riding the bigger roller coasters and rides. The park wasn't very busy, so it was just a great day.

We drove that night to Spring Mill State Park in Mitchell, Indiana. This was a great state park because there was so much to do. We visited a pioneer settlement, took a boat tour of a cave, hiked down to another cave, and visited a memorial to Gus Grissom. It was nice to be in this environment after the day at the amusement park. The weather was beautiful, and we had just a wonderful time as a family. I'm so grateful for opportunities for the 5 of us to be away together and enjoy each other. God has been so good to us!

The kids in front of the Scooby Doo ride at King's Island.

The kids ready to go on the boat ride into the cave.

Hanging out in the hotel.

In the gardens at the Creation Museum.

More Creation Museum.

Creation Museum

our family in front of the King's Island sign with the tower in the background.

Random Thoughts Vol. 11

Hi again! Time for more random thoughts, and what will probably be my last post before leaving for vacation on Monday. Please try to survive without me. I know I will be trying to survive without internet access for a week. It's good for me!

Well, one of my two favorite contestants won American Idol. Congrats to David Cook! I truly feel he was the best over the entire competition. I missed most of the finale, but caught the stuff I missed on Youtube. All I can say is, why have George Michael sing a song that Carrie Underwood conquered on Idol Gives Back night? He had no hope of singing it as well as her, especially with the "cold" he mentioned that he had. Also, I laughed out loud when David Hernandez whispered "naked". Too funny! Oh, and one more thing, I'm glad Amanda Overmeyer won't be on the tour this summer. All those group sings might kill her!

Yesterday was our last day of school. We are all so excited! Our trip to Lincoln Park Zoo was fabulous, and I highly recommend it, especially if you're a big zoo person. The weather was great (a little cool for Madison, of course), and Michael loved getting a chance to be in downtown Chicago. It was a great way to finish off the school year. The picture above is of the kids in front of a cool building with a rainforest area.

The reason I missed the American Idol finale was because we were at the AWANA awards night. Our kids did a great job. They all completed their books, which is exciting. At the awards, Michael recited John 3:16 in front of everyone, and Madison received an award for good sportsmanship, since she's always smiling. Ryan and I were, of course, very proud. Way to go, kids!

Finally, I wanted to post one more picture. It is the wild flowers that I wrote about in my post "Potential". I thought you would like to see them. I call it "Beauty Realized". Have a wonderful Memorial Day weekend and week, and I'll fill you in on our vacation when we get back!

Random Thoughts Vol. 10

Welcome to random thoughts, where the post lives up to its title. I'm having trouble realizing that the end of May is approaching, probably because it's been so cold here. I'm ready for warmer weather, but not the summer humidity. I can be as fickle as the weather, I suppose.

Behold the picture - a Cricut machine, which is what I received as a gift for Mother's Day. It's fabulous! I'm excited for the next time I have lots of pages to scrapbook so that I can use this little beauty. A nice bonus is that one of my friends also has the Cricut, and she has several different fonts that I can borrow and use with it. To that all I can say is, "Shazam!"

My American Idol thoughts are that I'm way more likely to buy a David Cook album in the future than a Little David album, so I guess it doesn't matter who wins. I think Cook has consistently been the best, and deserves to be declared the winner, but I think he'll do just fine without the title. I'll miss American Idol when it's over, mostly because I'll miss the fun videos done by EW.com.

Lost isn't on this week. The 2-hour finale is on next week. What in the world? How are the Oceanic 6 all going to end up rescued together since they are all separated? Is Claire dead? How can the island be moved? Is Ben one of the best characters ever, and is that actor one of the best as well? If the freighter blows up and takes Desmond and Jin out, I will not be happy, because Desmond is one of my favorite characters.

Tomorrow is our last day of school. We plan on spending our last day at the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago. We are all excited to go, and very excited to be finished with this school year. We've never been there, so I'll let you know my thoughts when I get back.

Potential

Barren field, fallow and dry
Thistle bush, weeds, and dead, brittle branches
Scanning across, it all looks the same
Till my eyes land on that one isolated spot
Where life is emerging, ready to burst
A cluster of wild flowers-to-be
Anticipating their moment to arrive
I see it and one word fills my mind
POTENTIAL
I see the possibility
The hope
The inevitable
Beauty is coming
And because it is in the middle of this wasteland
It will stand out even more
In this place where only God could have placed it
In this dry, brittle place
There will be life
There will be beauty
And because of what will be,
For now, there is hope

Taste Of Summer - Part Two

I took a picture of this hanging basket in the backyard because inevitably, deer will come and eat whatever flowers are in it.

My dad gave me this hosta a couple of years ago when he dug up some hostas at his house. It was being suffocated by the bush in the front yard, so I moved it to the flower garden in back. I love that we dug up this plant, chopped it into three parts, and put one third of it in a plastic bag, then drove it 25 minutes to our house, stuck it in the ground, and yet it lives! It also makes me think of Dad, and how we plant seeds in people's lives and we never really know what will grow, and we're sometimes surprised by the strength and beauty.

I took this picture because our kids have been playing with this empty paint rollers for weeks. Why do we ever buy toys?

Big Lots had these sidewalk paints on clearance for 50 cents a piece awhile back. Today we got them out with some old paint sponges and enjoyed painting the sidewalk and driveway.

I bought my hanging baskets for the porch at the Farmer's Market in Elkhart. They were 2 for $30 - about $20 cheaper than if I had bought something similar at Lowe's. You've gotta love flowers from the Amish (or were they Mennonite?). I thought I better take a picture since nearly every year a bird builds a nest in one of the baskets and the flowers end of dying because I can't water it enough with the bird in there.