Pennies in a Stream

In Straits a Present Aid

2011-03-20T21:07:00.000-07:00

I am reading through Genesis for worship these days. Have you ever thought that someone ought to make a movie of some of the lives of the Patriarchs? Talk about action films! In Genesis 14, we read that Lot and his family are taken captive by kings that came to fight against Sodom, Gomorrah as well as some other countries. So what does Abram do? He arms his trained servants which amounted to 318 men, chases the kings down, rescues Lot, the women in his family and their goods. This is all rounded off by a meeting with the king of Sodom, a blessing by Melchizedek king of Salem and rejecting spoils offered to him. Pretty intense. What happens next is intense too. Abram returns home as he waits for the seed God promised to bless him with.

My point in this is Abram's walk of faith. Faith that Abram had to hunt down kings and rescue his family with a puny sum of men and faith to wait on God and his timing.

It is "after these things" Genesis 15:1 says that the word of the Lord comes to Abram and says, "Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield and thy exceeding great reward." It is this particular section that brought such great comfort. The Lord commands Abram not to fear because he is his shield and then encourages him with the prize which is the Lord God his "exceeding great reward".

Life is so full of fears. The photo above reminds me of how I think we are with the Lord so often when a trial is near. We sort of stop in our tracks as the Lord leads forth towards danger expecting us to trust him because he has told us he is our shield. There is a catch, but it is to our benefit. He then reminds us that if we lose anything in the midst of the danger or trial, he is our exceeding great reward! What an amazing blessing! What a great God. We may suffer, but it doesn't end there for the Christian because we gain Christ and eternal life with him because he is our great reward.

I think of those who are suffering in Japan right now. I think of those who have lost everything in this world and do not have Christ. They are in my prayers! They have nothing...utterly and completely. Then there are those that are Christians who are suffering greatly as to this world, yet, praise God, they have a hope that is ever before them. They have Christ and all his promises and they have his great love that can never separate them from Him (Romans 8:35-39).

My problems seem microscopic in comparison and truly they are yet, in my world, they still are trials that require faith and trust in the Lord. The house we are renting was part of an estate and was on the market to be sold and sold it was. We just learned of it a couple days ago so we are now looking for another place to live. Moving didn't seem so overwhelming a few years back, but it is beginning to grow old especially since I've hit the 20th move in 17 years of marriage mark. I do believe that the Lord does desire this for my good and yet I'm weary (Lord, I believe, help thou my unbelief. Mk. 9:24) My faith is pathetic and this is a constant reminder that sanctification most definitely is a process that is spread out over our entire lives. How grateful I am that the Lord commands me not to fear, reminds me that he is my shield and comforts me with a reward at the end of it all...life eternal with Jesus Christ!

May you be as encouraged by the Lord's promises as I am. May we go forth in the confidence of his protection and free gift. No matter where we are, no matter the trial, be it seemly small or large, the Lord is the Christian's "exceeding great reward" and this is my song that I will sing all the day long.

Trust the Lord

2010-05-23T23:14:00.000-07:00

This evening, I was dwelling on the mysteries of God; his works of providence and his holy acts. So often, I find myself struggling (wrestling, really) with the Lord over the whys and wherefores of his plans in the lives of his children. It is nothing more than kicking against the goads; an adult temper tantrum, if you will.

And yet, I know he is benevolent and does desire to and will perform good to his children.

Ps. 85:12 Yea, the LORD shall give that which is good...

Ps. 145:17 The LORD is righteous in all his ways and holy in all his works.

Notwithstanding the understanding of his benevolence, righteousness and holiness, my frail sinful heart too often finds it difficult to understand the ways of our infinite Creator. I know, right? He is infinite, I am finite. What do I think I can possibly comprehend?

Is. 40:8 To whom then will ye liken God? or what likeness will ye compare unto him?

But God is so merciful. He does not leave me to wallow in my frustration and confusion or loneliness. He does not allow me to doubt his love for long.

Song of Sol. 2:4,10-12a He brought me to his banqueting house, and his banner over me was love. My beloved spake, and said unto me, Rise up, my love, my fair one and come away. For, lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone. The flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing of birds is come.

He patiently and graciously brings me out of darkness and back into the light of his glorious face. He strengthens and renews my weary soul in his good time.

Is. 40:28-31 Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth fainteth not, neither is weary? There is no searching of his understanding. He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall: but they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

Proof in my life, that the Lord hears the cry of his people and sends comfort, came in the form of a journal entry of a friend that gently silenced and encouraged me. The quote says...

"Relax, Christian. Rest. God has ordained the evil as well as the good. God has given to Satan and to the Beast and to the False Prophet roles and, if you will, services to perform, in his sovereign and most wise plan for our salvation. All things are purposed to serve God’s glory and our good. We may be for the present spectacles to angels, as the working out of the redemptive plan of God displays us before them, but we are the beneficiaries of God’s goodness. We shall yet be saved from all evils."

"Rest." Just one little word. One little yet very powerful word that provides a host of comfort. I can rest in the Lord because he is my refuge and my strength; an ever present help in the time of trouble (Ps. 46). I can rest because "the LORD is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy (Ps. 145:8). I can rest because the kingdom of our God is an everlasting kingdom (Ps. 145:13).

These promises are to all God's children. No matter the struggle. If we call upon the Lord in truth, he will hear and bless.

God is good to those that call upon his name; that call upon his name in truth (Ps. 145:18).

Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the LORD his God.
Ps. 146:5

*The full journal entry can be found here: http://gospelcovenanter.squarespace.com/journal/
It is titled, Behold Leviathan! (A short biblical-theological look at the beast concept in Job chapters 40 &41)

From God Your Beings Are

2010-05-16T08:04:00.000-07:00

Woke up to my 3 yo neice singing Ps. 148 with her daddy. Reminds me of when my sons were little. Those were precious days. ♥

"From God your beings are, Him therefore famous make; You all created were, when he the word but spake. And from that place, where fixed you be by his
decree, you cannot pass."

Have a beautiful Lord's Day.

Gluten freers can live again!

2010-05-03T10:12:00.000-07:00

If you are gluten free or wheat free (like me) or mostly grain free (like my mom), you will want to check these amazing sites out. I want to make every cookie I see. I want to eat the delicious bread. Notice I didn't say I wanted to make the bread. I not that brave in the kitchen, but for tried and true tested recipes, I think I will!

Ginger Lemon Girl
http://www.gingerlemongirl.blogspot.com/

On her site these cookies look amazing!
http://gingerlemongirl.blogspot.com/2009/08/gluten-free-chocolate-chip-cookies.html
http://gingerlemongirl.blogspot.com/2010/04/gluten-free-peanut-butter-honey-cookie.html

Gluten Free Girl and the Chef
http://glutenfreegirl.blogspot.com/

Check out this bread on her site!
http://glutenfreegirl.blogspot.com/2010/02/gluten-free-crusty-boule.html

Gluten Free Mommy
http://glutenfreemommy.com/

And this pizza crust looks amazing, too!
http://glutenfreemommy.com/homemade-pizza/

Perhaps you aren't gluten free, but maybe you know someone who is. If they have been gluten free for awhile, no doubt they know these sites already, but if they are just beginning this type of lifestyle pass on the info. It is incredibly helpful!

Watching You by Rodney Atkins

2010-04-26T12:29:00.001-07:00

I found a parody of this song on Jordan Niednagel's blog. If you haven't seen any of his home videos, you should check his site out.

http://www.niednagel.com/movies.htm

He is a christian fella. I came across his blog while looking at some other christian blogs associated with Vision Forum. He is a pretty funny guy. Many of his videos are parodies which I love.

Anyway, while I'm not a huge fan of country music (but I love bluegrass!), I really like the original by Rodney Atkins. ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4K-wmQuWfrs )
Hope you enjoy it.
Have a great day!

"Watching You" Music Video from Jordan Niednagel on Vimeo.

I'm Alive and Well and Back to Blogging (at least as much as I do anyway)

2010-04-22T14:06:00.001-07:00

Just a few photos here. Don't have time for much else right now...

Walter, of course. I love how he crosses his foot over his other foot. The photo of Walter and Ranger is actually quite significant as it demonstrates Ranger's progress in getting along with Walter. :D

The following are of Josh's birthday.Happy 32nd Josh!

Ann was humoring me as I went about taking pictures.

A momma and her boy

Such sweet girlies.

Emily decided to do my hair one night so these are from that fun experience.

The two stinkers.

Another stinker with really cute eyeballs. ;)

A lovely sunset Gregory barely captured, but so glad he did.

And proof that spring has sprung. Greg took this picture b/c we saw this great 1950's Ford pull into Alberston's across the street.

Hope to be on sometime soon.

I Won't Be Blogging For a While...

2010-02-18T13:36:00.000-08:00

So, I thought I'd post a few photos that are past due.
:o)
The following pictures were taken this past summer when Kristie and her kids came down from Canada. We are looking forward to another great visit this year, Lord willing.

Beth, Julia and Warren (Kris's kids)

Can we say, "mischievous"? Kennedy (Kris's girlie) and Addie (Josh and Amanda's girlie) were trouble times two, but oh so adorable! :o)

Pierce, Harrison (Kristie's boys), Josh (friend) and Micaiah.
I love Harrison's expression in this photo!

Julia had a birthday while visiting. She loves to cook so I had to post this particular picture of her. It is so adorable.

Kennedy (Kristie's youngest daughter) and Ranger

Jackson's bountiful garden

Emily, Addie (Josh and Amanda's girlie's) and Kennedy at the park

Harrison and Beth playing with my 'almost' dog, Iris. Thanks anyway Ann and Kris. xoxo

These were taken in the fall.

These were taken on Greg's birthday (my baby is 9!) and I couldn't possibly post photos and not have one of our silly selves. Greg fell asleep while warming himself on my heating pad.

My cousin made this great cowl neck "scarf" for me and Micaiah decided to try it out.

This is Micaiah's Uncle Sam impersonation.

Have yourself a good rest of the winter and enjoy those days of sunshine!

It's Nearly That Time!

2010-02-15T21:45:00.000-08:00

Hi there...just wanted to ask for prayer for my sister, Kristie, who is due to deliver baby number eight on February 24th! How awesome is that?! This delivery will (Lord willing) be a vbac and she is a bit nervous. She has been having contractions and doesn't have anybody to watch the kids during labor and delivery except my mom (Murray will be with her, of course) and she isn't there yet.

Please pray that Kristie's labor and delivery will be safe, that the baby will be healthy, that the Lord will comfort Kristie and give her peace and that my mom will arrive before labor begins.
Thanks so much!

Psalm 127:1a, 3-5
Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward. As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth. Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate.

Psalm 128
Blessed is every one that feareth the LORD; that walketh in his ways. For thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands: happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee. Thy wife shall be as a fruitful vine by the sides of thine house: thy children like olive plants round about thy table. Behold, that thus shall the man be blessed that feareth the LORD. The LORD shall bless thee out of Zion: and thou shalt see the good of Jerusalem all the days of thy life. Yea, thou shalt see thy children's children, and peace upon Israel.

Genesis 1:26-28
And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.

Punxsutawney Who?

2010-02-11T14:12:00.000-08:00

It's official. The ever famous and adorable fuzzy ground hog has seen his shadow which, of course, means that we still have another 6 weeks of winter.

For some seriously immature individuals (me!), Phil seeing his shadow is just about enough to make this cute furry friend an enemy. So, instead of blaming some poor creature who merely responds to instincts our great God has put in him, I am quickly and quietly placing my hand over my mouth as I remember it is God who ordains the seasons for our good and his glory.

But, to my delight (*squeals*), it would seem that here in Lewiston it's a little closer than furry Phil thought.

The signs of spring are growing in my yard and the sounds of spring are happily chirping in my backyard shrubs. I opened my kitchen window this morning just to listen to them. I didn't care if it was cold. I could hear them calling to me through the window and listening to them was like medicine.

Today was up to 50 degrees and that means I only had to wear 6 relatively light layers to be warm! :) It was fantastic to be outside. The boys started some yard work beginning with trimming the rose bushes and turning the soil. If you look closely you can see the bushes beginning to sprout their beautiful red leaves. Lovely.

This is our sunrise on the bluffs. It is so much better in person...the hills full of oranges, pinks and yellows and contrasted by the deep shadows. It is really quite inspiring!

No matter what season the Lord decides to give you in your neck of the woods, I hope it is a beautiful day. It is all beautiful in God's eyes. He created it and we ought to enjoy it all for that it is... his varied beauty surrounding us. Which means I'll have to rejoice if the Lord decides to send some of that cold weather my direction. ;)

Psalm 104:14
He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of man: that he may bring forth food out of the earth.

Look Who Came to Breakfast...

2010-02-04T09:36:00.001-08:00

Old Yeller

"Oh Arliss, don't let that old nasty dog eat from your bowl!"

Arliss: "Well, he's hungry too!"

Love this picture of Ranger licking his lips.

This is not an ordinary occurrence in our home. In fact, I think this has happened one other time in the four years we've had Ranger. I don't like dog hair which means I'm not that fond of dogs indoors, but since Ranger is something special (and so is my son who is Ranger's boy!), Ranger gets the privilege of being in the house.

Jackson was commenting on how funny it would be if Ranger sat at the table and ate with us so I thought I'd stage this photo. Ranger patiently sat for a few photos and eventually became quite nervous and began to peer into Jackson's eyes for the meaning of it all.

We all survived the frivolity without the loss of a hair to Ranger or an addition to our granola! :)

God Will Lift Up Your Head by Jars of Clay

2010-02-03T10:04:00.001-08:00

I really do love music. It is such a gift from the Lord. One of my favorite christian bands is Jars of Clay. Not only do they have a great sound, more importantly they have great lyrics. I love this song because the only lifter of our Head is the Lord Jesus Christ and he will fulfill what he promises because he is a righteous and holy God who is the author of truth!

Psalm 3:3
But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; my glory and the lifter of mine head.

**I should have posted this at the bottom of the Yael Naim song, but I didn't so I will will now. With any music I post, whether christian or secular, I cannot fully endorse each and every song that a band sings. Just so nobody gets the wrong idea about some of the singers I post.

New Soul by Yael Naim

2010-01-21T09:27:00.000-08:00

I love this song. I've heard it a number of times, but didn't know who sang it. Just found it and am so happy... "this is a happy end". :)

Hooray for Marie-Madeline Studio!

2009-11-23T20:42:00.000-08:00

I'm finally posting...but briefly. One of my favorite sites of all times, Marie-Madeline Studio, is having a fabric sale as well as a $30 gift certificate giveaway. I check their site almost daily (sometimes multiple times a day *blush*).

They have some of the cutest apron...
skirt...

and bag/purse patterns.

I love browsing through their pictures;

seeing their happy faces...

and drooling over their exotic, retro and brightly colored fabrics. I literally come away from their blog with a smile on my face. They really seem to have the joy of the Lord and a love for one another.

Won't you join me in visiting these lovely ladies at ...

their store:
www.mariemadelinestudio.com

their etsy:
www.etsy.com/shop/mariemadelinestudio

and their blog:
www.mariemadelinestudio.typepad.com

Have yourself a lovely day and may the Lord bless you!

*all pictures used with permission from Marie-Madeline Studio.

And Let the Beauty of the Lord Be Upon You

2009-09-20T21:57:00.000-07:00

The following is a post by Stacey McDonald from Dec. 2007. I found her post to be helpful to me, in particular, and thought it might be helpful to other ladies knowing how many of us struggle with our appearance. I also know from personal experience that women aren't limited to comparing themselves to the physical traits of other women, but we also compare ourselves to the natural abilities of other women.

Just a few thoughts on that. I would say that it is our responsibility to be faithful and hardworking with the talents God has given us otherwise we are little more than lazy. I also believe that in some part we are to "expand our borders", so to speak, in the areas we are not naturally gifted in. This helps to build character, knowledge and experience, all of which makes for a well rounded individual. I think, too, that there is a great deal of discontent and lack of thankfulness for what the Lord has given us. He has bestowed upon his children the beauty of salvation and clothed us in the garments of righteousness. How can we get any more beautiful?

With that being said, it is obvious that each of us have our own particular niches. Each of us are gifted with interests, hobbies and strengths (and weaknesses...ouch!) that others do not have. I see (with the eyes of faith when the spirit of weakness overcomes) this as reflecting the beauty of our Creator who has chosen by his own decree from all eternity (Eph. 1:4,11) to create each of us individually and uniquely for his own glory.

Rev. 4:11
Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power; for thou hast created all things and for thy pleasure they are and were created.

So who are we to challenge the Lord on what he decides to make? Can the clay that is formed question the Potter? Some of us are fit for everyday common use and others have been created for a more prominent use. It is a rather ridiculous picture to imagine each individual within the body of believers insisting to be an eye or a hand or a head? If the Lord has seen fit to make his body a unique and diverse one then it is not our place to view that diversity as "beauties versus the beasts". Rather, it is our privilege to use the talents he has given us, not for our own selfish pleasure (though the Lord wants us to enjoy the gifts he freely gives!), but for the honor and glory of our Master Potter.

2 Corinthians 10:31
Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.

May we choose instead to thank the Lord for the talents he has given us (though they be few or many), to be faithful in using them and expanding them for His glory and rejoice not in who we are alone, but who we are in Him!

********************************************************************

Thursday, December 13, 2007

The Beauty of the Lord be Upon You!

If you haven't watched the video below yet, please do so with your daughters! Give them a big hug and remind them that they are fearfully and wonderfully made and that photoshop won't make them any more beautiful than they are right now!

When we present ourselves in a way that glorifies God, and when we live chaste and sober lives, loving our neighbor and glorifying the Lord with all we are, His beauty will shine forth from us!

We have no true beauty without the Lord, and any outward beauty we do have is a rotting façade that will one day return to dust. There is nothing wrong with presenting ourselves in a lovely way. There is nothing sinful about make-up or beautiful clothes or jewelry, but we must teach our daughters that our focus is to glorify God.

Be faithful; teach your daughters that beauty doesn’t come from a tube of lipstick, it doesn’t come from having a twenty-one-inch waist, and it’s not lost because those gray hairs start coming or that last baby brought twenty extra pounds. The beauty of the Lord is eternal and it should be cherished and worn with dignity.

Tell your precious daughters to remember this video when they see billboards and magazines that try to "train" them into accepting Hollywood's version of beautiful.

And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us, And establish the work of our hands for us; Yes, establish the work of our hands. (Psalm 90:17, NKJV)

For Ang (and any other pig lover out there)

2009-09-03T12:27:00.001-07:00

Ang and Rach on their pig farm (sorry Rach)

Three little pigs went to the market

Pigs in a blanket

Ang tried to convince me that pigs smiled. I didn't believe her until I saw a photo. :o)

I surely hope you get the farm and can have your little wee pigs on it. I'll buy one for butchering, but you can take care of it until that time. :D

The Ideal Vacation Spot

2009-09-01T22:24:00.000-07:00

How I'd love to be cozied up in this little log cabin, wrapped in a quilt all snuggly and warm as the temperatures begin to drop. What a serene and peaceful setting. Any takers? :o)

John Piper on the Prosperity Gospel

2009-08-27T21:32:00.000-07:00

What are we doing to glorify God and make him look beautiful? We are such selfish people and we want all the glory for ourselves. Are we satisfied with God and only God though he allows trials and tribulations? What have we made our treasure? Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee. My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion forever. (Ps. 73) God is glorified when we look to him, humble ourselves before him and trust that he is our good provider, our Jehovah-Jirah.

"God is enough. God is glorified when we are satisfied with him in the midst of loss." -John Piper

*disclaimer-While I love what Mr. Piper has to say on this subject, I do not agree with all of his theology. This goes for most anything I post. I post what I agree with, so please do not assume that the portion I do agree with means agreement in full. Thanks.

Born Alive

2009-08-20T08:37:00.000-07:00

We are a nation deserving of judgment for many reasons. Abortion is one of those reasons and most definitely not the least of them.May God have mercy on these defenseless children!

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

God's Girl - Abortion Survivor, Gianna Jessen

2009-08-17T11:44:00.000-07:00

In case none of you get a chance to read Stacey McDonald's blog (listed on my sidebar), I am going to post these most amazing videos about an abortion survivor. That God would give me a voice to speak like this brave woman. That I would know what to say and how to say it and shrink from the fear of man that plagues me. Gianna Jessen has little to no fear of man because her fear/love of God is so great! May I be more concerned with stepping on God's toes, so to speak, than mans especially in this "save a whale, save a puppy, kill a baby" wretched culture that we live in!
I think we as Christians tend to be such a 'loving' bunch of people that we are afraid to love the way Christ did by speaking the truth and bringing the gospel of our Lord, Jesus Christ, to world. If we are his disciples, then we are to follow him and live as Christ lived. What a challenge and what a pleasure to hated for Christ's sake. This is our cross and may we bear it gently, meekly, humbly and yet boldly on his behalf. May we not be afraid to bear testimony to the work of Christ all around us. And may you be as blessed as I was/am by this woman's amazing testimony.

Part 1

Part 2

the beverly hillbillies relocate to lewiston

2009-08-10T16:25:00.000-07:00

sharing the beauty

dust bowl daddy with daughter and neice

the truck and scenery :)

mom-mom and her grand girlies

the fellers

the fiddler

a father, a son and a great-grandson

price lovelies

my trailer trash beauty :)

my parents, ann and grandparents

my guys, myself and my grandparents

the younger price clan and my grandparents

the dubitz clan (minus clan leader) and my grandparents

the gang's almost all here

the lewiston hillbillies

and again...:)

at dusk

Waiting on the Lord

2009-07-19T21:24:00.001-07:00

Psalm 34:1,2,5

I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.
My soul shall make her boast in the Lord: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad.
They looked unto him, and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed.

*****************************

If you haven't seen Facing the Giants, please do. It is a wonderful film that encourages the Lord's children to continue to have faith and not faint through trials. The same group made a movie called Fireproof which I would also highly recommend.

risen with Christ

2009-07-06T18:28:00.000-07:00

Colossians 3:1-4

If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.
Set your affection of things above, not on things on the earth.
For you died, and your life has been hidden with Christ in God.
When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.

the mystery of God

2009-07-06T18:20:00.000-07:00

I Corinthians 2:7-10

But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory:
Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.
But as it is written, "Eye hath not seen, not ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.
But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searches all things, yea, the deep things of God.

Those Sentimental Reasons

2009-06-24T00:22:00.000-07:00

After some thought and input, I've decided to change my business name. I didn't realize how many companies were named Moonflower and apparently this was confusing to some. Also, I don't think it represents what I love the most. I am a dreamer and one of the old fashioned sort. I love sweet sentimentality and nostalgia.
I would like your opinions if you would be so kind. You will notice my choices are similar to titles from popular songs in the 40's and 50's (or earlier). I would like my jewelry blog (and hopefully a variety of other items as time progresses) to reflect a similar warmth, sincerity, a bit of subtle elegance and a whole lot of quality that those time periods represent without being pretentious or ostentatious. I would like it to have a sentimental feel and the pieces purchased as something on which to have built a dream or memory. So, if you would please leave your remarks and/or suggestions in the comment section below, I would greatly appreciate it.

The choices are:

1. Those Sentimental Reasons
2. Something To Build a Dream On
3. Isn't It A Lovely Day...

Thanks so much for your help!

The God of Art

2009-06-20T18:33:00.000-07:00

I serve an amazing God. Anything and everything we "create" in this world is only an imitation of what is first seen in the world around us which God has made. His handiworks are displayed in the heavens and proclaim his glory.

It is no wonder we are able to succeed at anything we accomplish. Not only are we able to because God gives us the grace, but we mirror his works; the glory of the perfect, all-knowing, all-seeing, all-understanding God of the universe. If we have to imitate anyone, isn't it amazing that it is the hand of the Master. Not that God needs my approbation, but I acknowledge and want to proclaim how masterful his works are.

The sunrise, the sunset, the trees and the streams. Men and women have been trying to capture its perfection in art throughout the ages. Many of them have been and are God haters and yet it is their goal to imitate nature...after their Creator. They try to remove God, the intelligent Creator, and want to say everything has happened by random chance. That is why it takes precision instruments on precision paper or canvas with well studied minds imitating precision art in nature (thanking Ken Ham for his instruction). Art was God's realm first and will always remain his. May we use it for his glory.

One of my favorite modes of art is candid photography. To capture something or someone as it was or they were at a particular moment in time is true. It wasn't someone holding still in a position for hours. It is a clip of informal history. It is stripped bare of pretension; it is exposing the honest nature of something or someone. I guess I speak from experience as I am always trying to hide a flaw here or there. Sometimes it is uncomfortable reality, but that is beautiful in its own way. Beautiful because the reality of a moment or time is the way God would have it and has made it and everything is beautiful in its own time in God's ways.
I love the texture and layering of these photographs. I love the reflections, the shadows, the lines of symmetry and stature. I love the ripples on the water and being able to feel the cold rainy day on the bridge. I love the age, maturity and history in a stone road and the sheer power and strength in architecture. Architecture is substantial and weighty. Not just in the materials chosen, but in the purpose for what was or is built and how it will be used to serve or tear down in the history of the world. This is amazing and my God has done it.

Psalm 24:1-3,9-10

The earth is the Lord's and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein. For he hath founded it upon the seas and established it upon the floods. Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? or who shall stand in his holy place? Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory? The Lord of hosts, he is the King of glory. Selah

Few Posts Because...

2009-06-08T19:17:00.000-07:00

I am just a tad bit fried.

I am very thankful for yesterday's sermon on Ecclesiastes 7:7-10 (particularly v's. 8 and 10) . I am reminded that I must be patient, believe, trust and by faith wait for God's timing in every area. I am reminded that he is in control, that he ordains all for our good and His glory and that my ultimate goal is to glorify God and enjoy him forever. Plan of action...to put patience and trust, by faith, into practice (by God's grace!).

Isaiah 40:28-31
Hast thou not known? Hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, faints not, neither is weary? there is no searching of his understanding.
He gives power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increases strength.
Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall:
But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

Isaiah 40:11
He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young.

Isaiah41:9,10
Thou whom I have taken from the ends of the earth, and called thee from the chief men thereof, and said unto thee, Thou art my servant; I have chosen thee, and not cast thee away.
Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

Isaiah 41:17-20
When the poor and needy seek water, and there is none, and their tongue fails for thirst, I the Lord will hear them, I the God of Israel will not forsake them.
I will open rivers in high places, and fountains in the midst of the valleys: I will make the wilderness a pool of water, and the dry land springs of water.
I will plant in the wilderness the cedar, the shittah tree and the myrtle, and the oil tree; I will set in the desert the fir tree, and the pine, and the box tree together:
That they may see, and know, and consider, and understand together, that the hand of the Lord hath done this, and the Holy One of Israel hath created it.

Romans 5:3,4
And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;
and patience, experience; and experience, hope

Hebrews 11
17 By faith Abraham....
20 By faith Isaac...
21 By faith Jacob...
22 By faith Joseph...
23 By faith Moses...

James 1:3,4
Knowing this, that the trying of your faith works patience.
But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.

"Patience is submission to God and his will. If you would have joy in the Lord, you must grow in patience. One can only reign with Christ if one is willing to suffer with Christ." G. Price

Hebrews 12:1-3
Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,
Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.

From The Art of Manliness

2009-05-20T15:35:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite websites is The Art of Manliness. The site owner is not a Christian as far as I can tell, but he thinks and behaves more like a Christian than many. I have constantly been challenged, blessed and overjoyed by his thoughtful posts. I am either in a state of stun (I know that isn't a proper state... ) at the precision with which he makes points or elated and filled with warmth and delight as he relates family stories and insights. I am amazed who the Lord chooses to express his wisdom through even if they don't realize and aren't trying to speak God's words after him (like Balaam).
I have used this site to help point me in the right direction as I work with my sons and as I try to understand 'man'kind while I raise 3 'men'kind. Because he isn't a Christian, I don't take everything at face value (I don't do that with Christians why non-Christians?), but if it has merit and I can see biblical principles underlying his reasoning and thought, I go with it. It has helped me in setting a family standard for my guys.
I loved this latest post. I love it because it is right. I love it because he expresses his fears and humanity and then what he has learned. Also, being a mom I tend get sappy when dad's speak lovingly of their children, especially their daughters. Yeah. Anyway, here it is. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Here is the site:
http://artofmanliness.com/

What I've Learned Raising a Daughter (Thus Far)
May 19, 2009

If you're new to The Art of Manliness, you may want to sign up for a daily dose of manliness either by email or by RSS. You may also want to check out our free e-book on how to be a gentleman in 2008. Thanks for visiting and don't forget to man up!

I’m not going to lie, when I first heard that we were having a girl, a small tinge of disappointment hit me; I’d really been hoping for a boy. I know, turn me in for the jerk-of-the-year award. It wasn’t that I didn’t want a girl, it was just that I didn’t know how I would relate to, or help raise a sex that preferred tea parties to a rugby match.

It was easy to imagine how I would bring up a boy. Strict discipline mixed with love and honor, lessons of wilderness survival, famous battles, endless wrestling matches and instruction in being a gentleman. A girl on the other hand? The idea terrified me. Pictures of puberty, boy band concerts, awkward dad moments and an embarrassed/annoyed daughter helped convince me that I wasn’t cut out for the task of raising a daughter.

Part of my misunderstanding came from being raised as an only child, growing up around boys via various sports teams, then attending a military academy with a 6:1 guy to girl ratio. Let’s just say, while I appreciated the opposite sex, I knew very little about them other than they confused me and smelled nice.

Then my daughter was born and my theories were immediately tossed out the hospital window. She was beautiful, and I quickly took to being her father. She was mine and I was hers. My heart melted inside me the first time I held her and later, when she said “Dada!” and held out her arms to hug me. The fears I once had about not being able to love a girl as much evaporated as I became the ridiculously proud parent I’d always mocked.

Now, my daughter is still just a toddler, so I know that I have many, many lessons still to learn (a fact that nearly kept me from writing this post in the first place). The teenage years still loom ahead like a storm on the horizon taunting me…with tongue piercings and glittery lip gloss. But, even with only a short time under my belt, my daughter has taught me some incredibly important lessons that I never would have picked up had she not blessed my wife and me with her presence.

1) Men are born to protect. Regardless of whether it has gone out of fashion in today’s society, deep in the heart of every man is a desire to protect his loved ones. To make sure that they feel safe when you’re around, like the calming presence of a strong lion protecting the rest of the pride. Though I’m sure that this instinct is there with boys as well, the strong conviction I have to protect my daughter is greater than nearly anything I’ve felt in my life. It isn’t a feeling that has to be worked up, it’s just there, like cement, daring someone to move it.

Taking on the protector role means carrying yourself a bit differently. Rather than wandering aimlessly down any dark alley, I now am more aware of my surroundings and where I am taking my baby. I also find myself a bit less sympathetic when other people’s reckless actions invade my daughter’s life. I used to work out mostly for vanity; I wanted to look good. Now, I work out knowing that I could be the sole person standing between an intruder and my wife and child. And I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the time I’ve spent developing intimidation tactics for future boyfriends. Good luck Johnny brace-face.

2) Girls keep a man’s heart from growing too hard. Perhaps it’s because I went to a military academy, or spent too much time watching “Gladiator,” but I realized after the birth of my daughter that my heart had grown a bit hard. My compassion, patience and grace were all lacking. I firmly believed that “second place was the first loser,” “Pain was just weakness leaving the body,” etc. I had great pride in the discipline and efficiency through which I ran my life and home. These tough-guy attitudes suddenly seemed a bit ridiculous as I would look into the eyes of an innocent little girl content with blowing bubbles, chasing butterflies and eating copious amounts of cheese.

It’s not that I have now become a bumbling mess of emotion and softness since the birth of my daughter, but I have allowed myself to accept that not everything in life is simply a resource that must be dedicated to some ultimate victory. If we don’t get all of our chores done it’s not the end of the world. My car used to be spotless, now it has crushed cheerios and toys strewn about the back seat…who cares! With a child in one’s life, schedules and plans become much more flimsy. When my daughter cries I don’t try to numb the pain with a motivational talk, I just hug her. She’s kept my heart clean.

3) Every girl is some man’s daughter - There is no doubt that certain levels of sexism still remain alive in our culture today. Until I had a daughter I gave the idea very little thought. It had no direct impact on me, and I tried my best to be respectful to women, so why should I care? Raising a daughter and beginning to think about her future has caused me to reconsider my views on sexism, the glass ceiling, even the role of women in the advertising and entertainment industries. I’m sure most guys are like I was, giving a sigh and roll of the eyes when HR begins their annual training on sexual harassment, but things are a little different when the victim could someday be your daughter.

I once heard a lecture concerning America’s sex-saturated society. The gentleman discussed pornography, sexual addiction and abuse, but one comment caused the whole audience to go startlingly silent. “Every time you choose to view pornography, attend a strip club, solicit a prostitute, or in any other way, treat a woman like a piece of flesh rather than a person, remember one thing: That girl is some man’s daughter.” Men sat silently, the ones with daughters trembled at the idea of some man treating their daughter with such disrespect. Women aren’t just peers, co-workers, friends…they’re daughters.

4) Slow Down - The other day my friend and I were walking to the library with my girl. She just learned to walk a few months ago so she was a bit sporadic. Speeding up, giggling, slowing down, stopping to pick up a stray leaf. As we watched her take in the world around her, my friend commented, “Wouldn’t it be awesome if a walk to the library was this much fun?” I chuckled for a moment, but realized this was one of the true blessings having a small child in my life brought to the table. The reminder to slow down and enjoy the small, seemingly insignificant moments of life. The ones that I had previously tried to fast forward or multi-task my way through.

I once heard a friend’s mom tell her kids before leaving on a long trip overseas, “Wherever you are, there you are.“ The sage words have stuck with me for years as they reveal a life philosophy which refuses to take a moment for granted. How often do we talk to our friends while trying to check our e-mail on our iPhone, or let our minds think about the rest of the day’s errands as a loved one tries to connect with us? Children live life much differently; they take their time, fully engaging one task at a time, not too concerned with what lies ahead or behind. Maybe we could learn a thing or two from them.

5) Living for someone else -

“No man has ever risen to the real stature of spiritual manhood until he has found that it is finer to serve somebody else than it is to serve himself.” - Woodrow Wilson

Marriage is the first lesson most of us receive in learning to live for someone other than ourselves. And just when we start to think we might have that lesson down, children shatter all our notions of self-righteousness. Waking up at all hours of the night, changing diapers, feeding, cleaning…all these things are necessary parts of raising a healthy child, and they have been pivotal in forcing me to abandon some of my selfish habits. My daughter could care less about my well-thought-out schedule or whether or not I have a flight early the next morning. She continually challenges me to love her regardless of convenience.

I wrote previously that one of the greatest tests of manhood is whether or not one has learned to abandon their life in the service of another. This idea makes some people’s skin crawl, but thus far it’s been one of the truest indicators of real manhood I’ve been able to find. It doesn’t take much effort to be selfish. In fact, it’s one of the most natural ways for us to live. Children plop into our lives as miniature insurgents, waging war with our lifestyle of “me first.” My daughter has opened my eyes to the beautiful struggle parents face in giving their lives to their children. It isn’t comfortable, and often times it flat out hurts, but it builds a depth of character that can only be understood by others who have traveled a similar path.

For years men have been raising daughters into young women. It used to scare me, it still scares me, but I’ll give my life away in pursuit of it any day.

Hell's Gate State Park

2009-04-20T21:36:00.013-07:00

(This is my precipice. I am rather selfish when it comes to rocks. I love rocks and this is a very large rock therefore I love it more. :D This rock rests to the west of the Snake River and is in Washington state for those who are curious.) Anyway, with that, I will move on.

A couple of Saturday's ago, my mom, sister, my guys (minus Jackson who was working), one of their friends and I hopped in the van ready to make a drive to Hell's Gate State Park. There was an air of excitement and anticipation as we loaded the van with food and people like a pack mule. We thought of ourselves as explorers in search of what had only been mere tales up to this point. Sadly, we were to find out that our excitement was to be matched and surpassed only by our surprise at the park's location and size.
Prior to our excursion, we had seen signs for Hell's Gate State Park in the Lewiston and Clarkston areas and rightly assumed that it was somewhere in our general vicinity understanding general vicinity defined as "within a 30 min. drive or so". Altogether, it took us about an hour to figure out that this state park was about 10 min. from my house. Much to our chagrin, we came to the realization that the Lewiston city park was nearly as large as this "state park". Disappointed though we were, we decided to drive into the park and have a look around. We drove through the campground and were appalled at how close the sites were to each other. My boys kept asking why there weren't any tents. We are very opinionated wannabe campers. Our motto? If you're gonna camp, you have to make it rough and live amoung the trees and sticks and bugs and be toilet free...which is why we have never officially been camping since the kids came along. :) Finally, we decided on a parking spot and got out. It was chilly that day, but that wasn't going to stop us from playing in the "sand" on the Snake River "beach" though some got dirtier than others. ;)While the process of our trip wasn't what we had in mind, the end product turned out to be a delightful, enjoyable memory maker. I was afraid the only memory the kids were going to have was driving around looking for the park and them not getting enough air in the back of the van. Fortunately, they survived thus we survived. :)

Footprints in the sand. Human, bird and otherwise. I haven't put my feet in "sand" for years. It was wonderful!

My lovely precipice viewed from the Snake River beach.

The End (and a happy one at that!) :)

My Men

2009-04-17T13:10:00.010-07:00

Here are a few pictures taken last week. We are squinting because I wasn't smart enough to have us facing any other direction than directly into the sun. ;)

My sons, if thine heart be wise, my heart shall rejoice.
Proverbs 23:15

In the fear of the Lord is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge.
Proverbs 14:26

Proof that Jackson is nearly as tall as I am. I am 5'9" and he's pretty happy that at 14 1/2 he is just shy of that.

He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.
Proverbs 13:20
(The boys with the new bikes they recently bought themselves.)

Open thy mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.
Proverbs 31:9

(Gregory explaining to Micaiah that no matter how much sun is in your face, to wear sunglasses with a cowboy hat is totally and incomprehensibly unacceptable. Now to get him to use his oratory skills to plead the cause of the poor and needy.) :o)

Through wisdom is an house builded; and by understanding it is established: and by knowledge shall the chambers be filled with all precious and pleasant riches.
Proverbs 24:3,4

(If you look closely, you will see that Greg has his eyes closed. He was waiting for the photographer to say, "Three." to let him know that he could open them, but we forgot to tell the photographer he had them closed. Proof that we were facing the wrong direction...and yeah, I know my glasses are crooked. I got that taken care of once I saw this picure.)

A Man and His Truck

2009-03-31T13:25:00.007-07:00

My brother, Josh, just bought a '79 Ford. It's the classic older truck. It smells great. It has that *old truck smell*. You know the smell I'm talking about. The one that reminds you of your dad or grandpa. This truck smells like that. This truck reminds me of the trucks my dad used to have when he did landscaping in CA. I love this truck. I want this truck. I cannot have this truck. This truck belongs to Josh. :)

I will just admire this truck and hope for the day I can have one too. :o)

The Fight to Keep Pro-Life Doctors

2009-03-27T22:20:00.004-07:00

Be Heard!

I found the following information on my sister-in-law's blog. Please read and sign the petition!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"You have strong convictions, but President Obama says that doesn’t matter. He’s ready to rescind the Conscience Clause.

The Conscience Clause was implemented by former President George W. Bush to give physicians and nurses the choice to act according to their conscience — to not participate in abortion procedures if it conflicts with their personal convictions. If President Obama makes this damaging move, if he reverses the Conscience Clause, pro-life doctors and nurses will be forced into performing abortion procedures, despite their individual beliefs.

The announcement was made Friday, March 6, 2009. Since the official announcement was made, the public now has 30 days to file comments with the White House ... so we’ve got 30 days to make our voices heard at the White House.

Make a difference in this nation and stand for the freedom to act according to your conscience. Sign the online “Petition to Protect Pro-Life Doctors” below now. It will be delivered and filed at the White House no later than April 8, 2009. Get the word out now. BE HEARD!"

Petition to Protect Pro-Life Doctors at: http://beheardproject.com/

Psalm 139:14-16
I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knows right well.
My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.
Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them.

If we destroy the children given to us by the Lord, where will our future be?

Psalm 145:3,4
Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised; and his greatness is unsearchable.
One generation shall praise thy works to another, and shall declare thy mighty acts.
(emphasis added)

**Photos taken by my sister-in-law. Her blog is: http://keepittoyourself.blogspot.com/

Some Thoughts

2009-03-14T23:23:00.015-07:00

1Chronicles 16:23,24
"Sing unto the LORD, all the earth; show forth from day to day his salvation. Declare his glory among the heathen; his marvelous works among all nations."

Praise and thanks to our gracious and merciful Lord that...

Psalm 3:8

1 Peter 1:7,8
"That the trying of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perishes, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory."

"...men ought always to pray, and not to faint." Luke 18:1
~This is our remedy for despair. What a blessing to be able to bring our requests before the infinite God and know that he will hear us when we call on him! (Psalm 3:4)

Glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the LORD. Seek the LORD and his strength, seek his face continually. 1 Chronicles 16:11 (emphasis added)
~It is through the Lord alone that we can accomplish any good; that is why we must seek his face continually. (James 1:17)

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for that comes to God must believe that he is, and that he e is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him. Hebrews 11:6
~Promised blessing to those who seek the Lord diligently. All the words of the Lord are faithful and true and he blesses in spite of our weaknesses. He gives blessing when cursing is deserved. Praise God for his mercy! (Hebrews 4:14-16)

Pray one for another. James 5:16
~To uphold one another in prayer to the Lord, Jesus Christ, is the greatest good anyone can do for another.

True Joy is Only Found in the Lord

2009-03-08T19:33:00.012-07:00

Psalm 5: 11,12

But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee.

For Thou, LORD, wilt bless the righteous; with favor wilt thou compass him as with a shield.

(photo of my nieces by my talented sister-in-law)

her site: http://keepittoyourself.blogspot.com/

Are You Afraid To Share Your Faith?

2009-02-21T14:18:00.007-08:00

My sister, Ann, introduced me to this clip. I have used many of the same excuses given in this message as supposed reasons for why I "can't" share my faith. Most of the time, I fear that I will not communicate clearly as I get rather phobic when I talk to people in general, let alone speaking on the topic of salvation. In my better moments, I remember Moses' fear of speaking before the children of Israel and Pharoah and I am comforted by the Lord's response...
"Who hath made man's mouth? or who maketh the dumb, or deaf, or the seeing, or the blind? have not I the LORD?" (Ex. 4:10, 11) That pretty much silences any excuse I can come up with.
This clip is convicting while at the same time lending that touch of smile so you don't feel terribly overwhelmed by the truth of the content. May we "not be ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth; to Jew first, and also to the Greek." (Rom. 1:16)

When children ruled the land?

2009-02-13T16:08:00.035-08:00

Proverbs 23:13,14
Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.
The Scripture is very clear as to the child's place in the home and society. They are gatherers of wisdom, not producers. They are to glean from the wisdom of those placed in authority over them in the hopes that one day they will be godly wisdom bearers and sharers.

The Lord is my light; the God of heaven is my King and his law is at enmity with the governments of this world. This enmity to God's law is clearly seen in the belief that Mr. Ogden (nominated by President Obama for deputy attorney general) holds that the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child binds the US. Please read the following information sent out by HSLDA. Though it may seem late, the Lord can work his will however he chooses, so please call your senator and "voice your opposition to Ogden's confirmation".

Also, please pray which is obviously more important. Jesus taught us in the Lord's Prayer to pray..."thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven...". Christ's rule is our nation's need. This is our world's need.

Isaiah 55:1-3
1 Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy wine and milk without money and without price.
2 Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labor for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness.
3 Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.Isaiah 40:10, 15,18,21-23
10 Behold, the Lord GOD will come with strong hand, and his arm shall rule for him: behold, his reward is with him, and his work before him.
15 Behold, the nations are as a drop of a bucket, and are counted as the small dust of the balance:
18 To whom then will ye liken God? or what likeness will ye compare unto him?
21 Have ye not known? have ye not heard? hath it not been told you from teh beginning? have ye not understood from teh foundations of the earth?
22 It is he that sitteth upon the circle of the earth, and the inhabitants thereof are as grasshoppers; that stretcheth out the heavens as a curtain, adn spredeth them out as a tent to dwell in:
23 That bringeth the princes to nothing; he maketh the judges of the earth as vanity.

============================== ============================== ==========
From the HSLDA E-lert Service...
============================== ============================== ==========

HSLDA: Call to Stop Confirmation of Justice Candidate

Dear HSLDA Members and Friends:

We previously informed you that David Ogden has been nominated by
President Obama for the position of deputy attorney general of the
United States, the second highest position in the Justice Department.

The Senate Judiciary Committee held their confirmation hearing for
Ogden on Feb. 5. The committee could vote on his confirmation as early
as tomorrow.

Home School Legal Defense Association urges you to immediately contact
your U.S. senator who is on the committee, as listed below, and voice
your opposition to Ogden's confirmation.

The most important reason to oppose Ogden's nomination is his belief
that the rules found in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child
(http://www.hslda.org/elink. asp?id=6077) are already binding on the
United States under the doctrines of international law.

For background information on this doctrine, see Michael Farris'
article, "A Deeper Understanding of the Threat of International Law"
(http://www.hslda.org/elink. asp?id=6078) in the November/December 2007
Home School Court Report.

This means that Ogden believes that the legal rules contained in the
UN Convention on the Rights of the Child are already binding on the
United States, even though this treaty has never been sent to the U.S.
Senate for ratification.

Homeschoolers have long understood the dangers of this international
treaty, which contains the core principle that the government may
decide what it believes is best for each child without any proof of
wrongdoing by the child's parents. Ogden promoted the use of this UN
treaty in the Supreme Court to reach the conclusion that America's
courts have the power to overrule state law, using international law
as their guidepost for constitutional interpretation. Unfortunately,
he was successful in doing so in the Roper case.

It also means that Ogden is a proven advocate for the position that
international law should be used to interpret the Constitution of the
United States and bind the decisions of our elected officials.

If this weren't enough, Ogden has a history of representing Playboy
and other purveyors of pornography in high-profile legal cases. He
also challenged the legality of using filters on library computers to
protect children from seeing pornography. It would be hard to imagine
how Ogden would faithfully enforce the nation's pornography laws if he
is placed in this position at the Justice Department.

The United States Senate needs to understand right now that the
American public will not countenance the idea of the nation being led
by people who believe that international law trumps American law.
Please call your senator today to register your opposition to David
Ogden.

You can also use our Legislative Toolbox to contact your senator:
http://www.hslda.org/elink. asp?id=6079

SENATE JUDICIARY COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Patrick J. Leahy
Chairman, D-Vermont
(202) 224-4242

Herb Kohl
D-Wisconsin
(202) 224-5653

Arlen Specter
Ranking Member, R-Pennsylvania
(202) 224-4254

Dianne Feinstein
D-California
(202) 224-3841

Orrin G. Hatch
R-Utah
(202) 224-5251

Russell D. Feingold
D-Wisconsin
(202) 224-5323

Charles E. Grassley
R-Iowa
(202) 224-3744

Charles E. Schumer
D-New York
(202) 224-6542

Jon Kyl
R-Arizona
(202) 224-4521

Richard J. Durbin
D-Illinois
(202) 224-2152

Jeff Sessions
R-Alabama
(202) 224-4124

Benjamin L. Cardin
D-Maryland
(202) 224-4524

Lindsey Graham
R-South Carolina
(202) 224-5972

Sheldon Whitehouse
D-Rhode Island
(202) 224-2921

John Cornyn
R-Texas
(202) 224-2934

Ron Wyden
D-Oregon
(202) 224-5244

Tom Coburn
R-Oklahoma
(202) 224-5754

Amy Klobuchar
D-Minnesota
202-224-3244

Edward E. Kaufman
D-Delaware
(202) 224-5042

Sincerely,

J. Michael Smith
HSLDA President
------------------------------ ------------------------------ ----------
How To Subscribe:

- Subscribe to the HSLDA E-lert Service at our website:

https://secure.hslda.org/ hslda/elert/account.asp? Process=Subscribe

- Or send an email with name and complete mailing address to:

subscribe@hslda.org

Update on Child Product Safety Law

2009-02-12T08:42:00.010-08:00

Psalm 97

1 The LORD reigns; let the earth rejoice; let the multitude of isles be glad thereof.
4 His lightning enlightened the world: the earth saw, and trembled.
6 The heavens declare his righteousness, and all the people see his glory.
7 Confounded be all they that serve graven images, that boast themselves of idols: worship him, all ye gods.
8 Zion heard, and was glad; adn the daughters of Judah rejoiced because of thy judgments, O LORD.
9 For thou, LORD, art high above all the earth: thou art exalted far above all gods.
10 Ye that love the3 LORD, hate evil: he preserves the souls of his saints; he delivers them out of the hand of the wicked. Light is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the upright in heart.
11 Rejoice in the LORD, ye righteous; and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness.

The following post is the latest on the Child Product Safety Law as outlined by HSLDA (Home School Legal Defense Association). Looks like this law won't affect those small business owners and producers. Praise the Lord.

Commission Announces Major Changes to Child Product Safety Rules

February 9, 2009

Introduction

HSLDA met on Wednesday with Commissioner Thomas Moore, of the Consumer Product Safety Commission, to discuss the law imposing strict limitations on lead and phthalates in children’s products. The proposed regulations had persuaded many small family businesses to shut their doors and cease production. We are pleased to report that CPSC announced numerous changes to their regulations. Home School Legal Defense Association is satisfied with the meeting and its aftermath and remains strongly convinced that no small business should close down because of the lead requirements, which take effect February 10.

Changes made by the Commission

Last Friday, the CPSC declared numerous changes in their regulations, including the following exemptions that correspond with requests made by HSLDA in our meeting with Commissioner Moore:

An exemption for certain natural materials such as wood, cotton, wool, and certain metals and alloys that rarely contain lead;
An exemption for ordinary children's books printed after 1985;*
An exemption for textiles, dyed or undyed (not including leather, vinyl, or PVC) and non-metallic thread and trim used in children's apparel and other fabric products, such as baby blankets.

* HSLDA asked for an exemption for all books. Commissioner Moore argues, however, that the ink in books prior to the 1980s did contain lead.¹

Prosecution under the law, the CPSC announced, will ensue only if “someone had actual knowledge that one of these children’s products contained more than 600 ppm lead or continued to make, import, distribute or sell such a product after being put on notice.”² In fact, according to Commissioner Moore, manufacturers will not be prosecuted for violating the law during the one-year postponement of testing requirements (lasting till February 10, 2010), unless their products actually cause an injury or have the potential to hurt someone.³ Moore further assured HSLDA that small businesses, in particular, will have nothing to worry about. “Historically, we haven’t gone after these kinds of businesses,” he told HSLDA, “not cottage industries.”

HSLDA hopes that these policies, along with the Commission’s yearlong postponement of testing requirements, will provide significant relief to family businesses and providers to the homeschool community.

Conclusion

“If there is one message a small manufacturer should take from the Commission’s action [of delaying testing requirements] it is this,” Commissioner Moore said: “If you have been making products without receiving any safety-related complaints, you should go on selling your products.” This will remain true for at least until February 10, 2010. Even beyond this date, HSLDA is confident of the future of small businesses under this law, and is grateful to the Commission for its cooperation and its sensitivity to the needs of family businesses.

Additional Information

CPSC Spells Out Enforcement Policy for New Lead Limits in Children’s Products Effective February 10

Statement of Commissioner Thomas Moore on the one-year extension of testing requirements (requires Adobe Acrobat Reader)

Statement of Acting Chairman Nancy Nord on the one-year extension of testing requirements (requires Adobe Acrobat Reader)

Notes

1. Thomas Moore, letter to Senators Rockefeller and Pryor, and Representatives Waxman and Rush, http://www.cpsc.gov/PR/Moore020309.pdf (February 3, 2009), p. 4

2. Consumer Product Safety Commission, “CPSC Spells Out Enforcement Policy For New Lead Limits In Children’s Products Effective February 10,” http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09120.html (February 6, 2009).

3. Thomas Moore, letter to Senators Rockefeller and Pryor, and Representatives Waxman and Rush, http://www.cpsc.gov/PR/Moore020309.pdf (February 3, 2009), p. 5.

Music!

2009-01-23T11:40:00.007-08:00

If you haven't heard of Nickel Creek...get a copy and listen to them or check them out on You tube. They are amazing musicians. Nickel Creek is one of our favorite bands and one of my favorite songs by them is "Why Should the Fire Die?" though this video isn't the best quality. I really like the version by the Grannis sisters minus the not so great fiddling. I love the blend of their voices. Towards the end their video, the Grannis sisters also sing "Bei Mir Bist du Shon" which is a song the Andrew Sisters sang. My sisters and I like the Andrew Sisters; the harmonies are complex and dead on. Kristie used to sing this particular song alot when we were younger.

Why Should the Fire Die? Nickel Creek and Cover by the Grannis sisters (including a portion of Bei Mir Bist du Shon popularly sung by the Andrew Sisters in the 40's)

For Kristie and Ann (and anyone else who cares )...The Andrew Sisters (hilarious!)

Nickel Creek playing The Smoothie Song

Waitin' by Landon Austin with Kina Grannis (a sweet song, but a bit of an intro with Kina Grannis...just pause until it loads and skip to 53 seconds into the video.)

Happy Birthday Ann(ie...just so you know who you are Ann...:P) !

2009-01-22T11:58:00.012-08:00

Ann Facts (random; no particular order)
*she is 19 today! :D
*she has a huge heart and is exceptionally giving
*she is outspoken about her faith and love for Jesus
* she has an absolutely sunshiney (I think I created a word there) personality
*she is a wonderful auntie to her 14 nephews and nieces
*she is the youngest of five children
*she has a notable talent to play piano by ear, crochet, cook and sing (she's just notably talented...period! )
*she loves the ocean (at least in Florida thanks to the Wierzchowski's)
*one of her favorite colors is "Florida ocean" blue ;)
*she has a beagle named Daisy*she is a faithful, loving and honest friend*she loves to laugh (I love to laugh with her and Kristie. They are the best laughers ever. You just feel better when you laugh and can they get you going.)

Ann, I love you more than words cans say. You are such an encouragement and blessing to be around; you spread the love and joy of Christ all around you. I rejoice in your commitment to the Lord. You are a daughter of Zion; a gem in Christ's crown. You are your parents crowning glory and a testimony of God's faithfulness in your baptism. May each day bring you closer to Christ and to a greater understanding of His word and will as you press on in the race of the Christian faith (Eph. 3:14).
1 Peter 1 is one of the most encouraging chapters in Scripture, in my opinion. Sorry the text is weird.
Happy 19th Birthday, Nell...I love you!

1 Peter 1:2-25


		Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.
		Blessed [be] the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
		To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,
		Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
		Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations:
		That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:
		Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see [him] not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:
		Receiving the end of your faith, [even] the salvation of [your] souls.
		Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace [that should come] unto you:
		Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow.
		Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into.
		Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;
		As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance:
		But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;
		Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.
		And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's work, pass the time of your sojourning [here] in fear:
		Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, [as] silver and gold, from your vain conversation [received] by tradition from your fathers;
		But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:
		Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you,
		Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.
		Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, [see that ye] love one another with a pure heart fervently:
		Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.
		For all flesh [is] as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away:
		But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.

Help Save Handmade Products for Children

2009-01-16T21:14:00.005-08:00

The Congress just passed a law that will go into effect in Feb. called the Consumer Products Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) that will literally shut down a whole industry in our country that produces handmade clothing and toys for children. The concerns are good, but the method is extreme and unnecessary. Please check out this link and help save small businesses!

http://coolmompicks.com/savehandmade/

(Picture borrowed from www.scarletstitch.com . My sister-in-law is the photographer for this site and her sisters are the owners.)

For Kris, Nate, Ann and my guys... :D

2009-01-02T11:36:00.004-08:00

One of our favorite scenes for you. I love you guys!

I have this theory...

2008-12-30T09:17:00.015-08:00

let's just say you have a dishpan of leftover water which has set out all night and as you go to wash your hands before preparing breakfast the next morning, you are mysteriously and wondrously greeted by a bubbly soap heart. When this happens, my theory is...it's going to be a good day. :)

This theory has yet to prove itself since the day is young, but I have this tiny little feeling that it is going to "pan" out (sorry about the pun...I had to). Even if it is only a self-fulfilling prophecy, so to speak, that works for me. That silly little memory of a perfect soapy heart has left a smile on my face.

I believe we should look for Christ and his work in our daily lives (1 Cor. 10:31-as we should do so we should also think) and this little heart is no exception. This seemingly silly heart has left me dwelling on heavenly beauties; on the ultimate sacrificial love of the Father in sending his only begotten Son (John 3:16) and the gift of His beautiful Son in laying down his own perfect life in return for his inheritance... the souls of the nations of this world (Dan. 7:14) in which he amazingly and graciously has chosen me. Meaning, I am his and he is mine (Song of Sol. 2:16). Praise be to God in the Highest!

I am so grateful to the Lord, that even though I fight and kick against His will at times (too many times), he sends me a bubbly heart to brighten my day and remind me that I am his because he first loved me (Eph 2 !). How amazing is our great God?!

May the Lord bless you and bring you to a knowledge of Him and His perfection if you don't know Him or encourage your heart and faith in the mercy of our loving God, if you do know Him!

We've Moved

2008-12-23T10:59:00.008-08:00

I can't believe it's been about a month since I posted last. Moving is time consuming to say the least, but we are settling in here in Lewiston. Just a few pics to share with you which Ann took, actually. I still have mine to upload and don't have the time right now. :)

The top pic is a great view of Lewiston, ID and Clarkston, WA. Lewiston is on left side of the large river down the middle of the pic and Clarkston on the right. For those who care, that large river down the middle is the Snake River which I personally think is so very cool. I love Ansel Adams photos and he has this amazing photograph of the Snake River. Needless to say, I was thrilled when I found out we were going to live so close to it. ;) The smaller river in the pic is the Clearwater and it runs into the Snake which runs into the ocean. Obviously, our area was named after Lewis and Clark and will be great to explore (pun intended :P ) the history of our area in detail in the coming months.

The middle pic is taken from the top of the bluffs north of Lewiston (I believe...correct me if I'm wrong Ann) ;) Just about anywhere you drive in Lewiston these bluffs are in view; they are beautiful. Presently, they are snow-covered and spectacular.

The last pic is the front of the house we are renting. I am still trying to adjust to living in town, but Lewiston is not a city city (a great blessing) though it has a population of 30,000. It is spread out and thankfully, the view of the bluffs which can be seen from my kitchen window is a great help. As my friend Ang says, you just need to imagine the houses away. Apparently she is better at imagining than I am.

I truly am grateful to the Lord for the house he has provided and pray for contentment. Easy to say hard to apply. ;) Reminder to self: our possession is not of this world, but of the world to come. Our inheritance is filled with all matter of spiritual treasures; treasures that will not pass away.

Daniel 7:14- And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed.

What a blessing! Praise God! He is so amazingly gracious to choose his people for himself that we may serve and bless his name always.

I hope and pray you are all well and I look forward to posting soon.

A Scene from the Holy Grail

2008-10-25T14:29:00.008-07:00

Since it is election time and the topic of politics is a hot item, I thought I'd post this clip from You Tube. While we may have the freedom to vote, I don't think either candidates are winners. So we get what we get...which puts me in mind of this portion of the skit. The sad thing is, while in the Middle Ages, the divine right of kings was the rule, it doesn't seem like we are going to get much better than that...a dictatorial monarch. The other sad thought is...the choices we have really gauge how far gone our country is.
At any rate, this is one of my absolute favorite scenes from Monty Python's, The Holy Grail (note:I wouldn't recommend every section of this film!).

Revisiting Memory Makers

2008-10-18T11:22:00.000-07:00

This month and last, the boys and I have been visiting some of our favorite places here in our area and taking pictures so that we have hardcopy memories, so to speak. My memory bank has gotten so full over the past few years that writing down thoughts and taking pictures of what we do helps me remember what we've done. Brilliant, no? lol What can I say? I'm a little slow. ;)

I have become a minimalist when it comes to traveling or going out which means I often leave the camera home. I've realized that this is not good minimalism hence my new practice of packing the camera and making photograph memories.

Here are some pics of a revisit to the Latte Lounge. It sits right off Main St. and has a very comfy atmosphere. The kids and I love to go here and just sit and talk. Lately, we just get drinks to save on money, but sometimes we'll have bagels and as Annie and I have found out, they have some awesome cheesecake. :)

And...understanding that I'm not a good minimalist when it comes to words, written words that is (unfortunately I'm a *very* good minimalist when it comes to spoken words), I'm going to practice good minimalizing and stop talking and start posting. :)

The guys on the Latte sofa

The 'architectural' window(the sofa sits right behind it)

Through the 'arch' window starring Sir Gregory the Goof

This and the following are storefront pics from the inside

The 'fix-it counter'

The pick-up counter

The following are Main St. pics

A Safe Arrival

2008-10-09T07:39:00.026-07:00

Psalm 145 1-3,5,8,20a

I will extol thee, my God, O king; and I will bless thy name for ever and ever.

Every day will I bless thee; and I will praise thy name for ever and ever.

Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised; and his greatness is unsearchable.

I will speak of the glorious honor of thy majesty, and of thy wondrous works.

The LORD is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy.

The LORD preserveth all them that love him.

My dear friend and her children arrived safely in Lewiston last night. I can hardly contain my excitement. Seeing her and the kids again will be just like being home. Ang is such a special person that knowing her has helped me to understand myself. To quote Emerson, "The only way to have a friend is to be one." Ang has not just been a friend, but almost an extension of my own soul.

Ang and I were introduced through a mutual friend about 4 years ago and she has been a sweet balm of encouragement, joy and healing during some of the most difficult times of my life.

This sister is one of my heroines of the faith; she is a Berean, if you will. I am constantly challenged by her yearning and seeking the truths of Scripture. The Lord has used her to strengthen me in my faith for which I am truly grateful.

Please be in prayer as she seeks work and housing to support her family.

Psalm 107 1-7

O give thanks unto the LORD, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.

Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy;

And gathered them out of the lands, from the east, and from the west, from the north, and from the south.

They wandered in the wilderness in a solitary way; they found no city to dwell in.

Hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted in them.

Then they cried unto the LORD in their trouble, and he delivered them out of their distresses.

And he led them forth by the right way, that they might go to a city of habitation.

For the Redheads and Bethy-boo :)

2008-10-08T18:02:00.017-07:00

My beautiful, sweet sister, Kristie, who has the most intoxicating laugh. I miss you like crazy!

These are her three girlie-poo's.From L to R:Julia, Kennedy and Bethany who I also miss like crazy!

The Glengarry Bhoys are one of my favorite Irish bands. I am posting these in honor of my beautiful red-headed sister and neices. Miranda is the fiddler. About half way through the first clip she gets crazy on the fiddle. If the beginning is boring just skip into it a bit. ;)

This next clip is quite shaky since it was a non-professional taping, but Miranda dances while she plays. She's nuts! She's amazing! :) Hope you enjoy it, gals. :D

Beth, the Irish dancing is posted for you and Jewels. Love you girlies so much!

Love This Version

2008-10-08T16:09:00.002-07:00

Love Jack Johnson and these guys sound great together. Love the harmonica.

Our Tuesday Outings

2008-10-07T19:32:00.031-07:00

Around here, Tuesday is wash day. I don't know too many mom's who find laundering exhilirating. Under the right conditions I find it relaxing, but in a real home those "conditions" don't often exist. ;) I really don't have anything to complain about though. My piles definately don't add up to those of my sister's (she has 7 kids) or my cousin's (who has 13 kids). Laundry anyone? ;)

Nevertheless, I try to keep our laundry down to a minimum by having the boys (parents, too) wear their clothes for more days in a row than I am going to admit on this blog. This practice helps keep the laundromat costs down. As my guys live indoors mostly at this point (except for wrestling and stick fighting time, assuming it isn't raining), they don't get terribly dirty and smelly. They do take showers, but unfortunately at this point in their lives, it is only because I tell them too. ;) What can I say? their boys.

Being homeschoolers, if we go out before their school is done for the day, school goes with us. So, it being Tuesday Washday, we prepared to go to the laundromat to do some laundry. We always get looks and comments, but thankfully I haven't encountered any negative ones. This is where a great big "thank you" goes out to my sons for their obedience and diligence. Hooray for great sons! I love 'em.

My 3 sons! ;)

Greg's excited smile because he was on his last pile of flashcards. :)

Micaiah engrossed in his book The Cat of Bubastes: A Tale of Ancient Egypt by G.A. Henty

Jackson is a pacer. When he talks on the phone or is memorizing, he paces. Makes me nervous, but it seems to help him. ;)

The ever intellectual Jackson. Actually, we are hoping his intellect kicks back in once the hormones die down a bit. ;) Here he's working on memorizing William Bradford's writing about the Pilgrims. I just happened to catch him in one of those 'thoughtful' moments like, "How does this apply to me??".

All that to say, I decided to take my camera with me today. I am NOT a photographer; just trying to capture memories. I don't take enough pictures of our everyday lives so I've been trying to keep my camera handy. Just what you all wanted to see...school and laundry. The very necessary and scary elements that create the best horror flicks. Hope it doesn't frighten you away for too long. Have a great evening. I intend to. My laundry's done. :)

Happy Birthday Mom!

2008-10-02T09:12:00.039-07:00

To My Mother

I love you Mother for your quiet grace,
For that dear smile upon your kindly face,
For marks of toil upon each loving hand,
That worked for me ere I could understand;
For all time's touches on your hair and brow,
For never were you quite so dear as now:
I will be loyal, faithful, loving, true,
For, Mother dear, I owe so much to you.

Clara Simpson

Today is the birth-day of a most special woman; my mom. My mother has devoted her life to her family. She has been the faithful wife of a faithful man. From these two have come 5 living children and 14 grandchildren.

If you were to ask her where her passion for being at home was learned, she will tell you that her mother, who was a single mom, often remarked that all she wanted to be was a wife and mother and be at home. Having this instilled in her from a young age and understanding that to be her scriptural role, she gave her whole heart to it.

My mom believes with all her heart, as Spurgeon stated, "Home is the grandest of all institutions." Because of this, as children, we had a home that was filled with a mother's sacrificial love. My mom is not only a devoted mother, but mother-in-law and grandmother. Because of her faithfulness to the Lord, she has been and continues to be one of God's most constant and effectual means of leading her children and grandchildren to the Lord.

Proverbs 14:1 says, "Every wise woman buildeth her house: but the foolish plucketh it down with her hands." My mom is a wise woman. She is a virtuous woman. She has looked well to the ways of her household and has not eaten the bread of idleness. Her husband safely trusts her that he will have no need of spoil and that she will do him good and not evil all the days of her life. She has used wisdom by her words, in her purchases, in her caring for the needy, and the opening up of her home to those that the Lord brought in her path. Because of this, I arise and call her blessed!(Prov. 31)

My mom never thought that "the increase of culture, money and refinement was to decrease homespun frugality, domestic purity, and the fear of God". (Theodore Kuyler)

Ella Wheeler Wilcox was an American poet who lived from 1850-1919. In her poem, The Need of the Hour, she asks, "What does our country need?" The answer? "Women, strong of soul, yet lowly, women whose lives are pure and clean and holy, whom all little children bless; Brave earnest women, helpful to each other, with finest scorn for all things low and mean; Women who hold the names of wife and mother far nobler than the title of a queen. Women who, worn and weary, ask no greater glory than making some young soul the home of truth; who sow in hearts all fallow for the sowing the seeds of virtue and of scorn for sin, and, patient, watch the beauteous harvest growing and weed out tares which crafty hands cast in." Ella Wheeler believed that "these are our country's pride, our country's need" and I heartily concur! It was/is my mother's desire to be at home to instruct, love and care for her children and husband in the Lord. She knows that it is her God-given role and she unapologetically fills that role with joy and thanksgiving.

My mom loves singing. I remember her singing as she went about her work in the home. They weren't the songs of the world. Not that all 'worldly' songs are sinful, but her thoughts were directed towards the Lord. They were songs of praise, of requests and of humility before the Lord. I can see her now at her kitchen sink, head raised slightly as unto the Lord, and her mouth filled with song. One of my favorite songs is one that was sung by the mother in the musical Fiddler on the Roof. My mom used to sing it to my sisters and I when we were young. It is called the Sabbath Prayer.

My mom's passion is to fulfill Phil. 4:8 by thinking on whatsoever is true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of good report. If there is any virtue or praise in something she thinks on it and encourages her loved ones to do similarly.
My mom truly is a woman whose price is far above rubies. In this I rejoice and thank the Lord because I have a godly model set before me. Not just any model. A model who loves my very soul and the souls of my family.

The following poem exemplifies the godly, faithful mother and it is to mine, that I dedicate it.

Two Temples

A builder builded a temple,
He wrought it with grace and skill;
Pillars and groins and arches
All fashioned to work his will.
Men said, as they saw its beauty,
"It shall never know decay;
Great is thy skill, O builder!
Thy fame shall endure for aye."
A mother builded a temple
With loving and infinite care,
Planning each arch with patience,
Laying each stone with prayer.
None praised her unceasing efforts,
None knew of her wondrous plan,
For the temple the mother builded
Was unseen by the eyes of man.
Gone is the builder's temple,
Crumpled into the dust;
Low lies each stately pillar,
Food for consuming rust,
But the temple the mother builded
Will last while ages roll,
For that beautiful unseen temple
Was a child's immortal soul.

Hattie Vose Hall

Thank you for everything, Mom! I love you forever and always!

For those of you who don't know...

2008-10-02T08:00:00.001-07:00

this is a long post.

Oh, and we moved. Yep, we traded our countryside home in Unadilla for main street living in Oneonta (coping...barely; more whining to come ;) ). This is a picture of my chiropractor's office and right above his office, on the second level where you see the railings, is our apartment. I will be posting more pics of it soon. (soonish?)

And...in about 2 months we'll be moving again though this next move will be a little farther; we'll be moving out of state. Come the end of November it's on to Lewiston, Idaho. I think it would be a safe assumption that if someone has moved 18 times in 15 years folks would likely think one of two things; either they're military or they actually enjoy moving. I wouldn't say I despise moving, but I definately wouldn't go so far as to add it to a list of my favorite pasttimes. :)

Being raised in southern California built into me certain prejudices against every other state in our country. ;) Over the years, the Lord has worked on humbling my silly pride (in many areas...ouch!) by showing me the beauty that he has given each state (and province) we've lived in. I am thankful to have not only 'seen', but experienced living in each of these places.

I never thought I'd survive in climate below 30*F. North Dakota winters proved that theory wrong. The first time I visited ND, I went from a balmy 70* in southern CA to 50 below. Just a mite chilly. The Lord gives grace for every situation though it didn't necessarily come in the abundance I thought I needed. I didn't think a little 'global warming' right over the state of ND was asking too much. ;) All the more need to look to Christ which, I believe, was/is His intention. He was teaching me to "Let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing."(James 1:4) While conviction is painful and challenging, it is a blessing to know that the Lord does not leave us to our sinful selfish selves. Praise the Lord for that!

Our reasons for moving are two-fold. While New York may have some of the most beautiful scenery around, there is far too much negative legislation. The state wants its hands in the home, the pocketbook (I just said pocketbook! I mean wallet.) and more. Besides this, most of my family is either relocating to this area (for similar reasons) or has relocated already. We have gone from a household of 14 to 5 as our family members have moved on and we moved out of our home last month. So while another move is an unpleasant task in and of itself, we are looking forward to reuniting with our family. Our move will also put us within a day's drive (a long one though it may be) of both my sister and her family in Canada and my inlaws in North Dakota.

Family is very important to us because it is important to God. It is His first 'institution' of learning, leading and instructing. Out of the family comes our society. What folks believe and how they choose to raise their children is what we will see in the future since our children are the future. Family is what Theodore Kuyler calls the "fountain-head of society". He states that, "Both the commonwealth and the church grow out of the family. They both take their character from the family. The real seed-corn whence our republic sprang was the Christian households, which stepped forth from the cabin of the Mayflower, or which set up the family altar of the Hollander and the Huguenot on Manhattan Island or in the sunny South. All our best characters, best legislation, best institutions...were cradled in those early homes. The home rules the nation. If the home is demoralized it will ruin it."(emphasis added). And something our country and it's leaders need to hear and understand is that "No statesmanship or legislation can save us, if once our homes become the abodes of ignorance or the nestling-places of profligacy."(T.K) Our country cannot save us. Not it's economic bailouts, it's schools, afterschool programs, etc. Our only hope and saving can come from the Lord Jesus Christ and His Spirit working in and through our lives as a family. Not until the Lord of the universe is Lord of the homes within our country will we see the change that needs to be made.

We see this move as clear leading from the Lord. Much prayer and asking the Lord's will led us to seek this move. If He didn't want us to move He wouldn't have sold our house. Not only did we battle finding a buyer in a tough economic market, but finding one who wanted to live in the 'country'. This was the third year we had the house on the market. Most folks wanted more privacy and wilderness (we would have too! ;) ) or they wanted to live closer to Oneonta which is where the main business happens around here. The Lord not only provided the right seller (and the only one who made an offer!), he provided a job for Larry that helped to cover a good amount of what we lost on the house. This job is also an answer to prayer as it will reduce the hours Larry has to work. This is something that our family looks forward to.

So, all of that to say, we're outta here in a while so look out Idaho, here we come!

Proverbs 23:15

2008-09-29T06:20:00.009-07:00

"My son, if thine heart be wise, my heart shall rejoice, even mine."

Jackson is 14! Yep, that's right...I have a fourteen year old son! Is it possible that time has flown by so quickly? I realize this is a common refrain for moms, but I'm amazed nevertheless.

I think most men look back to a particular summer that they remember fondly as the making of who they have become. I remember Larry telling me about one summer he spent with his grandparents and the great spiritual influence his grandfather had on him. I think this last summer will be Jackson's. It was a summer of physcial and spiritual growth.

We had the priviledge of having my parents, sister, brother, sister-in-law and children live with us for about half a year. They were a tremendous help in getting our home ready for the market and helping me maintain household activities during my health problems. I am grateful for many blessings that came out of this arrangement, but one in particular is the influence my father and brother were able to have on all of my sons spiritual growth.

This summer, Jackson seems to have shot up inches and his voice went from a boy's to a young man's. He painted decks, learned how to fall trees, dig up two garden spots and reseed one (don't ask..haha), garden, make real sourdough (details to come) and care for little ones. Many kids who come from larger families learn this one earlier, but since the Lord hasn't blessed us with any more precious babies since Gregory, his learning has come later. He loves his little cousins and misses them greatly. He misses Addie's "fa-fa" when she's had enough and her little knowing smile when Jackson wanted to give her a good morning kiss. Jackson is gentle, kind and gentlemanly to his mom which has been such a comfort. All these have helped him to grow in love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness and temperance.

Most of all, the Lord has blessed him with a tender heart towards Himself. For this, above all, I am most grateful to the Lord. For from this, all the others will flow as the Holy Spirit convicts and challenges Jackson. I love you Jackson, my blessed firstborn!

Proverbs 23:24 - The father of the righteous shall greatly rejoice: and he that begetteth a wise child shall have joy of him.

2008-09-16T06:40:00.003-07:00

Philippians 4:8

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things

This command is quite a challenge. I love it and rejoice in it. It encompasses every area of life; the parts of our lives that it is easy to be applied to as well as those areas that we struggle with the most. It is my hope that our hearts and minds, our very lives, will be filled with these characteristics all done in the name of Christ. If we are obedient to Christ's commands it will overflow into our homes.

May we run the race that is set before us, not being conformed to this world, but being transformed by the will of God that we may present our lives as a living sacrifice; holy and acceptable unto God. (Rom. 12)