Where the Heart Is...

Some people have the amazing experience of growing up in the same house throughout their childhood years. And for some, the home is still owned by family and they are able to return to that place of memories now as an adult. What that must feel like! To return to the place that holds so many memories and feelings of sentiment.

Of course, this tends to be less and less of a trend these days, as the average homeowner remains in a house less than 5yrs. My own childhood was filled with moving and starting new schools and living in different homes. With those experiences have come valuable life lessons too. Like learning to adapt to a new setting, making friends, and accepting change.

But I can't help but envy those who have those strong ties to familiar childhood settings. Traditions. Nostalgia. Lifelong friends that have known you since kindergarten. That playground that you remember chasing kids around. The well-beaten path between your house and your best-friend's. Any memories like these that I try to conjure up are immediately assigned to multiple street addresses, and none of those sentiments run very deep, since our family often had to uproot and transplant before strong ties were forged.

Around this time of year, as my sisters and I make plans for the holidays, my mind can't help but run back to this very theme. Because, where is home?? Where should we host the holidays this year?? What traditions can we start, and hopefully keep?? Have you ever seen that saying, "Home is Where the Heart Is"?? Well, in our case, I have decided that "Home is Where the Family Is."

No matter where we hold our holiday meal or settle down to open thoughtful gifts, it always seems like 'home' when we are all together. Because it's the same silly Lindsey who is making us laugh with her homemade gifts and crazy food concoctions. It's always Marilee creatively setting the table and finding a super soft blanky to snuggle in. It's always big sis Jenae serving a well planned and amazingly delicious meal to the rest of the family. It's always Brandon in the corner, gracing us with his heavenly voice as he strums Christmas chords on his guitar. It's always Mom sharing with us her latest story of how she blessed (or was blessed by) a person in need. It was always Dad filling the room with an aroma of music as his fingers effortlessly danced across piano keys. Hmm...and me?? I'm not sure what the others would attribute to me...but hopefully it's the fact that I LOVE stories! And I love to hear all about the things each person is going through at that moment in life. And I always have a camera, ready to snap a silly smile or a precious hug in action. Home is the way someone will start singing the lyrics to a favorite holiday tune or a worship song, and very naturally within moments it will become a 6-part harmony.

This is home. No matter the location. These are the memories that never change. They go far and deep. And they have become such an amazing treasure to me. Thank you Lord for each and every amazing person you have placed in my life. And thank you that the one constant thread that runs throughout the canvas of our family is a love for YOU! Jesus Christ. Lover of our souls. Our Redeemer and Savior.

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

I wish everyone a very Happy and special Thanksgiving weekend!
I have so many things to be grateful for...it would take me forever to list them out singly. Plus, sometimes it's nice to tuck those thoughts in my own heart and savor them privately. So I won't try to list them here. But I will mention one thing...and it's that over the past few days, the Lord seems to have revealed a special purpose for my life. And I'm so very excited to see how His plan will unfold in the near future. I'm so grateful that He can use even me! Sometimes I feel so insignificant compared to others who have a powerful ministry calling or a glamorous career, etc... But the Lord longs to use each of us in a very unique way. And He seems to have revealed that to me this week. You'll be hearing about it in time. But for now, let's just be ever grateful for the way He seeks us out, molds and shapes us, and uses us to bless others. ;)

My Hero

This post may seem silly to some people.
Or surprising at best. But I cannot help but mention something my hero of a husband did last night.

He ran out to Blockbuster to pick up a couple movies (rent one, get one free Tuesday). And as he was scanning the wall for a choice flick, a worker approached Ryan and asked him if he needed movie suggestions. The guy immediately pointed Ryan's attention to a racy flick and told Ryan he thought the movie was really good. Ryan told him, "No thanks. I've heard that movie is full of nudity. I'm not interested." The guy gave Ryan a confused look, then moved on to another dvd suggestion. Ryan said, "Dude, that movie is even worse than the first. It's got a lot of nudity. I'll pass on that one too."

The confused worker looked at Ryan and said, "So what? What's wrong with nudity in a movie?"

To which my Knight-in-Shining-Armor boldly replied, "The only woman I want to see like that is my wife."

When the guy shook his head and laughed, Ryan pressed him further, "Dude, are you married?"

"No."

"That's why," stated Ryan. And walked away.

I know that in our culture it's really no big deal for women to display their assets like they are IHOP's cheap breakfast special. And men think it's acceptable, and even desirable, to be lusty, hungry-eyed participants.

But as a couple who is desperately and defiantly fighting daily assaults on our marriage, Ryan and I have decided that we will keep our eyes pure and reserved for only each other. I realize that this battle can be much more difficult for men. So I am so honored and esteemed that Ryan would choose to take the stand he did, even in a little Blockbuster store, which seems like an unlikely battlefield. I respect him so much for his strong sense of character, even when no one is looking. I LOVE you baby!!!

2nd Annual Brody Turkey Bowl

Roughly twenty competitive boys playing flag football in 32degree weather, refereed by some dedicated, fun-loving dads, followed by some warm, tasty cookies and hot apple cider served up by Mom.........Mmm, mmm! That's the recipe for another very successful Brody Turkey Bowl!

Blah!

Fever. Raw throat. Muscle aches.
Being sick is no fun at all. Blah!

Julia Juggershnaut

Today in Kid's Connection, Ryan and I led the Jungle Room (2nd and 3rd grade) service. After worship, I put some crazy glasses on my nose, and transformed my personality into "Julia Juggershnaut," a geeky, clumsy girl who finally got the chance to put on her own show on the 'Food Network.'

So, I got up on stage and introduced myself to the kids, naturally drawing lots and lots of laughs at my crazy, clumsy, geeky character. Then, after choosing two volunteers from the audience, I went about teaching the kids how to make bread. We went thru the ingredients, taking a special moment to explain the yeast. As we mixed and kneaded the dough, I humorously explained how such a small amount of yeast will transform that dough into a large loaf of bread.

Afterward, Ryan came up and tied it all together with today's theme: that even a small amount of faith can be used by God to complete GREAT things! It was super fun. And the kids had a blast. Last week the lesson was about DIRT. This week it was about YEAST. Hmmm...wonder what they'll have us pull off next week. xoxo

This week...

This week was quite a roller coaster ride for Mommy and Daddy!
(Starting from the youngest) Little Marina learned that shoving mini lego pirates' gold pieces up her nose nostrils is very unpleasant, makes her nose hurt, and makes Mommy very upset and anxious. In the process, she also learned how to blow her nose, with her mouth shut. (Thank the Lord, that's all it took to get those things out!)

Sweet Reese learned how to write the letters 'z' and 'w.' He also learned that, if he pulls a chair from the table to the counter, he can climb onto the counter, stand up, and reach just high enough to pull the big blue bowl off the top of the refrigerator. (That is, the big blue bowl that holds the remaining Halloween candy). Hmm...little Sneak!

Marky-Mark has had the roughest week of all. On Wednesday, he fearfully came home and showed me a behavior slip that stated he was to serve a silent lunch the next day...for spitting from up on the monkey bars. Not a huge crime, but still disrespectful and against the rules. So he accepted responsibility and served his punishment. Thursday, he came home from school visibly shaken, with yet another behavior slip. This time, he did something much worse. In an effort to make kids laugh, he had held up his snow glove, and pushed all the fingers down except the middle. I had to read it a few times to let that one soak in. Not MY kid!!! Not at a CHRISTIAN school!!! I told Mark I was going to let Daddy handle this one when he got home from work. And Mark said, "Oh no! That's the worst!"

He started giving me excuses, but I cut him off right away, saying, "Mark, if you start making excuses, you are only going to put yourself in more trouble! You know you were wrong. Just accept responsibility, Man-up and serve your punishment, and then move on knowing that Daddy and Mommy still love you!" So he quietly endured the agony of awaiting Daddy's return home (and inevitable punishment).

Being the wise father he is, Ryan had a very good talk with Mark. We realize that Mark doesn't understand the gravity of what that gesture means. So, I guess you can add that to what Mark learned this week...that sticking up a middle finger is like swearing at someone. He looked appalled when we told him that! He'd known it was a bad gesture. But didn't know HOW bad. Then Ryan reminded him that everyone in the 4th grade will probably hear about this little stunt. And Mark was equally appalled (and humiliated). Today, Mark intends to go apologize to his teacher, as well as his circle of friends, for not setting a good example and for doing something so wrong.

And Mommy learned that she should never think, "My child would never...." because you just never know. What's most important to me is that my kids would know they can come to us when they screw up. Even when they screw up big time. And we will hold them accountable for their actions....but we will also stand behind them and love them no matter what. I hope this instance can be the beginning of that kind of relationship with our eldest son.

Phew! Thank goodness it's the weekend!

Reese's Prayer Tonight...

"Jesus...Have a good sleep.
And help us be safe...And Jesus is wiff us.
And we have school tomorrow. Amen!"

It amazes me to see the creative ideas that come out of young active minds. I gave Marina, Emma, and Mataya each a couple sheets of stickers the other day...and before I knew it, they had created artsy feet! Too cute.

The Aftermath

Romans 13:1
"Everyone must submit to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God."

Isn't it interesting that throughout the centuries of history God has allowed such a variety of leadership to take position? Even in biblical Israel...God's chosen nation. They had evil kings. And then they had kings that were considered righteous and would call the people's hearts back to the Lord. God knew. God foresaw. Nothing came as a surprise to Him. Yet, He allowed things to happen for a purpose. His divine purpose. Of that I am so certain.

Throughout this grueling election process, I've received all kinds of comments and emails and opinions from friends, strangers, and then of course there's the media. I'm surprised by some ideas but not at all surprised by others. The ones that surprise me the most are the emails that warn that Obama is the anti-christ. C'mon now. I'm not at all an Obama supporter, but I wouldn't go that far. Whatever the case may be, the fact is that God has allowed this man to be elected as president over our great nation. And God has not been caught off-guard by this unraveling of events.

I think we need to be careful of our words. Not speak out of fear. And instead, use this situation to show people our unwavering faith and security in the ONE who is always in control. People's emotions are highly sensitive at the moment. And I wouldn't want my words or my opinions to hurt someone that holds an opposing viewpoint. I don't think that would be productive. And I don't think that would be right.

If you are discouraged by the outcome of this election...just remember that it is not OUR agenda that should take priority in our minds. It is GOD'S. And think about it...even when His chosen people, the nation of Israel...were ruled by wicked kings, or even worse, were conquered by other nations and forced into slavery...even through all that, His plans were not deterred. His plan to send His Son to earth, to walk among us, to minister to the needy, and to ultimately take our place on the cross...His plan to save us from our sins...That plan wasn't shaken or changed despite the activity of man.

So, as we regroup and head into four years of this next presidency, let's remember that God is not yet finished working among us and His agenda is so much greater than man's. I'm not saying that Obama is a wicked leader. I don't agree with his policies, but I will pray that God will give him wisdom and that He will speak to his heart in the profound way that only the Holy Spirit can do. And as the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays approach, I will let this time of year be a reminder that God's plans have always prevailed and will continue to prevail, despite our feeble attempts in government.
xoxo

Hitting the polls...

Tonight, exactly 44 minutes before the polls closed, Ryan arrived home from work, which allowed me to hop into the car and head to our voting location. I proudly exercised my right to vote. I am proud to be American. And proud to live in a free country. (Although those freedoms are severely threatened by certain politicians and certain litigations...but that's another discussion).

Ryan laughs at me sometimes...he thinks it's 'cute' that I'm so patriotic. I simply tell him, in a very serious, well-read, and intellectual tone...."Haven't you ever watched the movie 'The Patriot' with Mel Gibson? Look at all the heroes our country has sacrificed for our freedom!"

Okay...maybe Hollywood is not the best source for American history. But the fact remains, so many heroes have sacrificed blood, sweat and tears for the freedoms we enjoy today. That is what makes this nation so great. And knowing that this land is filled with hardworking moral people, yes, on both sides of the aisle, who are striving to keep this nation great...that's a cool thing.

I realize tonight's election in monumental. Yet, I'm not stressing over it. I think certain kinds of "change" will have disastrous effect on our economy, job future, and so many other issues. Yet, I know we Americans are so resiliant. And knowing that God has my future in His hands gives me so much peace. It really does. In other years, I've been brought to tears with fear during election times. But, as monumental as this one is, I don't harbor that same level of fear. Is it spiritual maturity? Learned life lessons? Or simply a choice to have childlike faith? I'm not quite sure. But I firmly believe He is in control, despite the outcome of tonight's election. He is in control. Thank you Jesus.

The Secret Message

No sooner did I step into my steamy shower today, than a secret message slowly appeared on the glass sliding door. It was a huge heart surrounding the name "Grace," who recently is the object of Mark's affections. Wow! Now that's classic!

Funny thing is...I'm not sure if it was written by our young, dreamy Mark...or by his jokester father who loves to poke fun at Mark's innocent infatuations. Both cases are highly likely. But what I DO know is that it's time for me to scrub my shower! Any bath that can archive a message like that is definitely overdue for a scrub!

Do Some Digging

Only a couple days from election day. And I encourage you to think. Do some digging. It will take effort. There is information overload out there. And at the risk of sounding like a conspiracy theorist, I'd venture to say there's a whole lot of propoganda floating around. No, not floating...but intentionally targeting voters, college students, even kids. (Have you watched Nickelodeon lately!?! Oh my!)

Everyone seems to have something to say. Lots of anger. Heated words. Flaring opinions. So, I won't be one of them. All I will say is PLEASE do some digging. Read. Listen. Look beyond the rhetoric. Both candidates have reiterated (til they are blue in the face) the problems we face in America. We don't need to be reminded. They've both said that they are for the middle class. For economic reform. And are looking to put country first. Both candidates have offered 'Change.'

Yet, in our desire for change, I warn you not to blindly hop aboard a bandwagon. The 'opposite of Bush' doesn't necessarily mean the 'correct change.' DIG DEEP. Seek out answers. What exactly does each candidate's plan for 'change' entail??? What would be the respective consequence? I suspect that as people search for such answers, they will be forced to explore their own opinions regarding issues like socialism v capitalism, our freedoms, and what kind of policies would seek to slowly take those freedoms away. People will be led to ask themselves things like, "Do I think it's more profitable for government to have more control? Or is it more profitable for people to have more control?"

Decide what your values are. Then listen wisely and sharply to the things the candidates have said. THEN at that point, decide who lines up with your views. I think it would be a tragedy, though, for people to simply mark their ballot based on what's popular or based on the party they've always voted for. We've got minds. Let's use them. This election process is one of our amazing freedoms. May God bless Tuesday's outcome! And may we expend the same amount of mental energy (or more!) seeking out our Creator, Whose motives (thankfully) we never have to fear. xoxo

Trick or Treat

Last night I had a date with a pink cheerleader, a sheriff cowboy, and a spooky alien. We circled the neighborhood in pursuit of candy...until Daddy came home from work. Then we hit a few more houses before heading to Grandma and Papa's house, to show them our costumes. And I just gotta chuckle when I think of little Marina. She is such a cool girl...as we approached spooky houses with moving parts or scary masks, she had no fear. Just a great sense of humor. The spookier they were, the more she would just laugh. I love it. Afterward, we spent some time @ the Grove's house. They were roasting hotdogs and marshmallows over a firepit and had a huge bouncy set up in their front lawn for the kids to jump in. What a fun night!