I'VE MOVED>>>>>>>

Due to the personality disorder I affectionately call PERFECTIONISM, I have MOVED my blog to the following address:

http://coffeeatthecabin.blogspot.com
(And, doggone it, you're also going to have to cut and paste the link because I can't get it work tonight either!)

Please don't hate me! Please follow me over there!

Can't wait to see you!!!

(I'm now off the edge, and back into the computer room...

I need blogging help....

Okay people. How sad is this? I JUST realized, right now, that my blogging address is coffeatthecabin instead of COFFEEatthecabin. Are you kidding me? I don't have coffe I have COFFEE at the cabin!!!!!!!!!

So, I went on and registered coffeeatthecabin.blogspot to me, but now I don't know what to do. Export the one blog to the other? Start over? redirect? Is there any way to change the email address of this one? If I switch to a new one, can people be automatically redirected? You know, with the tremendous following I have I need people to find me - hahahahhaha.

Any help from you experts would be much appreciated.

May I just say that I am such a perfectionist in some areas that this may just put me over the edge. I don't know what edge that is, but most certainly I will be going over it soon.

UGH.

Grumbling to myself...and heck, I think I'll go get a cup of COFFE while I am at it.

Simple Woman's Daybook - 2/23/09

FOR TODAY...

Outside my window...Cool, crisp morning - only 9 degrees. Going to warm up this week to (hopefully) 48 degrees! Spring is just around the corner!

I am thinking...of how Mondays always seem to be the craziest day of the week, filled with promise for productive days

I am thankful for...a husband who is a chiropractor as my neck is really stuck this morning on one side! Too bad I have to wait until he comes home to have it taken care of!

From the learning rooms...spelling test that we didn't get to on Friday is first on the agenda. Science and history are on the list today along with the rest of our core subjects. Need to get TJ's story completed that she is writing as well

From the kitchen...pulled pork sandwiches and french onion soup for supper - that's as far ahead as I am at this point!

I am wearing...typical Monday uniform: slippers, socks, exercise pants, long sleeve top, black pullover

I am creating...PILES. Piles and piles of stuff that needs to be put away - I am trying to reorganize my desk with work vs school stuff. Also, starting the process of organizing VBS for the summer with a whole new idea, so that needs to be created as well

I am going...nowhere today! I think my Monday will be completely spent within these fine walls I call home

I am reading...Well, I finished book two in the Mark of the Lion series - AWESOME!!! Now, I have book three available, but have some other ones that are due before it. Might start The Prophet by Francine Rivers first.

I am hoping...that we can get through our science lesson today without litmus paper b/c I don't have any! Also hoping for clear, God-led direction in regards to our VBS program

I am hearing...JT reading things to me. To be honest, I am hearing "blah, blah, blah" even though he is reading joke after joke. Is that bad? :)

Around the house... Operation organization needs to be revamped and revived! Actually, it's not too out of hand, but it needs a little attention. The basement has two tents and an air mattress up still from our weekend "camp IN".

One of my favorite things...how come coffee always comes to mind first? :) A nice roaring fire and a good book

A few plans for the rest of the week: Ash Wednesday, Marriage conference on Saturday, VBS meeting, work meeting Thursday - wow, the week is filling up

Here is picture thought I am sharing...



Please join other daybookers through the link on the right!

Have a wonderful week!

I love to read...

As far as I'm concerned, there is never enough time in a day for the reading I want to get done. Whether it be fiction or non-fiction, self help or romance, the Bible!, or whatever, I can't get 'er done. I LOVE to read, and my addiction is never satisfied.

Don't get me wrong...I can veg in front of the tv with the best of them. Brad and I have a standing 10pm date on Wednesday nights to watch "Top Chef". We're not sure what we're going to do after next week's season finale. Somehow replacing it with "America's Top Model" doesn't seem the same.

But, I digress. Back to the books. At any given time, I have a huge stack of books next to my bed. I have discovered that most of the "self-improvement" books are half read...I get into them with all my good intentions, then start to feel overwhelmed, so back onto the stack it goes. (I am NOT going to have that happen with The Love Dare though. I am committed to getting that one done. More on that a different day) I can't read more than one fiction book at a time - it's too confusing to try and keep it all straight in my simple mind. But, if I start one that I love, I typically read before I fall asleep at night, sometimes in a nice hot bubble bath if I feel the need to really reward myself! However, I have also noticed that reading before bed causes me to dream the characters, or the situation many a time. Talk about getting caught up in a book!

I have to thank my friend Suzanne for putting me onto the Mark of the Lion Series. Thank you, Suzanne, for causing me to neglect my family and forego thoughts of meal prep, laundry, and general household chores in order to sneak away to steal yet a few more moments with Marcus and Hadassah. Thank you for not telling me that I would need to have the 2nd in the series on hand as I would finish it over a weekend when I couldn't get it from the library. Thank you for the sleepless nights after I read until 2:30am and was haunted by my ineptness as a Christian witness. Thank you for the jump start to walking on the treadmill because it was something I could do with a book in hand. Thank you for tuning me into the realization that the Lord has placed me in a time where I am better situated, as I would have never survived in Rome, Ephesus, or any other area in that part of the world, or in that time. Thank you for living so far away that a book club would never be possible face to face, and all we could have together is a virtual cup of coffee. Yep, thanks for all that. You're a great friend. :) I laugh at the list I gave you to read...NONE of that compares to this type of historical fiction...

Like I said, I love books and I am thankful for eyesight to read, hearing to listen to books on tape, and the ability to type to tell you all about them. My kids are showing great desire to get lost in a book, and I couldn't be happier about that. Where else can you escape to another world, learn more about your favorite topic, become a thing-finder in your own backyard, laugh with Don Quixote and his misrepresentation of windmills, laugh at the misconceptions of all the mismatched love stories in "A Mid-summer's Night Dream", and deepen your faith in Christ Jesus? All of that in the past couple of weeks...the written word is amazing.

Off to curl up with book 2...

And, here's a quick picture of what's on my bedside table...minus Echo in the Darkness, which was next to my rocking chair at the time of the picture...what a variety of titles...

The Road Less Traveled...

When you teach your kids at home, sometimes you just get so excited when your kids "get it"...you know, when something you have taught seems to really be integrated into their knowledge base. JT, your answer yesterday to one of your literature questions helped me to really see that you got it, and I'm so proud of you for taking the extra time on your assignments and striving to always do your best. It is evident in how you write. A year ago, you would cry and complain if asked to write a single paragraph. Today, you write paragraphs with a descriptive style that is fascinating. You take the time to do your work well. You are wise beyond your years and I love how you are thorough in so many areas of your life. Keep it up, dear one.

I want you to remember what you wrote, here and now, at the tender age of 8. So, I'm going to put it in this note, so you and others can see the talents God has given you. Never lose sight of where those talents come from!

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I-
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.

Your response:
You broke a vase while you're all alone. The door opens as your mom walks in. She saw the vase. You could lie or you take the hard way. Its like the kind of choice in the road less traveled. Lying is the road trampled and worn because most people took it and then you wouldn't get trusted. Take the one less traveled by - that would make you feel good and be trusted.

Love you JT...

Simple Woman's Daybook - February 16, 2009

FOR TODAY...

Outside my window...Hazy, sunny day that may reach 40 degrees, but the wind is strong

I am thinking...of many things today, mind is swirling with decisions and items that need to be accomplished

I am thankful for...the wonderful gifts God has given me with my husband and children; They are incredible and I never could have dreamed of marrying someone likehim

From the learning rooms...off to a slow start this Monday, but we'll make it up - we're not off like everyone else today!

From the kitchen...tator tot hotdish for supper; plans need to be made for the rest of the week

I am wearing...my most comfy jeans, slippers, wool socks, white ribbed turtleneck and a flannel shirt over the top

I am creating...our lesson plans for the week

I am going...nowhere in particular this week, maybe a bit of shopping with Brad for a few things, also to the office on Tuesday

I am reading...a new book by Karen Kingsbury, but the title escapses me (and I'm too lazy to head upstairs to see what it is)...I finished the first book in the Mark of the Lion series and have to get the second one pronto. OH MY! That is a good book!

I am hoping...I can resolve some inner "issues" that I am struggling with right now;

I am hearing...nothing but my computer fan and the furnace as my two oldest have disappeared from the teaching arms of their mother! :)

Around the house...kids' rooms finished and vacuumed today, need to clean the kitchen wood floors as well

One of my favorite things...hitting the snooze alarm and snuggling in with my dh :)

A few plans for the rest of the week: Starting TJ on piano lessons, errands, work, VBS planning meeting, church activities, dinner out on Saturday with church members

Here is picture thought I am sharing... This past fall, we had corn stalks - not leaves!

Make sure to link up with Peggy and other daybookers through the link on the right...

My take on Valentine's Day...

Anyone out there watch Seinfeld?

I get a huge kick out of many an episode, but one that comes to mind today is the one where Jerry and his girlfriend are all lovey dovey in how they talk to each other and it drives George and Elaine crazy. "You're my schmoopie", "No, you're MY schmoopie..." and on and on ad nauseum.

Brad and I couldn't be further from that scene. We are NOT lovey talkers or whatever you want to call them.

We have "pet" names for each other. Real exciting. I'm "nug" and he's "spousie" or "spouse". Very creative. I realize I rarely call him by his first name though. That's kind of weird.

So, I should call today Random Thoughts with Sarah. I'm full of them today. I'm thinking back to high school and the dreaded Valentine carnation purchase. I went to a Christian high school and some group in the school would have a fundraiser every year on Valentine's Day. You would order and purchase $1 carnations in different colors (each color would mean something) to give to your friends, sweetheart, or whoever. Then, they would be delivered in first or second period, so it was very exciting to see who you would get flowers from, and, conversely, really sad when you wouldn't get them from someone you liked.

Looking back, I realize how much I hated that day. I hated the worry and wondering about whether or not I was going to get ANY flowers, let alone from a special someone. I worried about other people that wouldn't be getting any, and how they would feel. I worried about the reaction I would get in response to giving a flower to a special person. Oh, the angst of high school.

Don't make me go back ------ aaaaaaaarrrrrrggggggghhhhhhhhh!

Valentine's Day to me is a high expectation, low return holiday. I remember many a day in my high school and college years of having grandiose ideas about how the day would play out, only to have it dashed with disappointing realities. I grew to dread the holiday, picking up hours where I worked to avoid the possibility of spending the evening alone while EVERYONE else in the world was celebrating their love. Oh, the warped perception of youth.

From early on in my married life, Brad and I didn't do much to celebrate Valentine's Day - we went with the motto that every day is Valentine's Day, and we didn't need a special day to proclaim our love. (Plus, we had NO money so the thought of him purchasing flowers or something like that would have caused a huge fight most likely!) As we've matured in our marriage, we find though that we do need to take time out and make a special point of doing things together, because it is easy to have days and weeks go by without any couple time. That is an ongoing commitment we have to one another - and we both have to work at finding the undivided time.

So, I have no grandiose ideas for V-day. I don't have a gift yet or even a card for my dh. I have nothing for my kids. I am planning on making cookies with them, which will be complete with pink frosting and sprinkles, a rare treat around here. But, I am searching my brain for some ideas of something special to do to make it memorable. I think I want to teach my kids that love is for each and every day of the year, and not something to be officially observed on February 14th. But, I do want to recognize that it is a day to share together.

So, what are you planning on doing? Are you spending time alone with your spouse? Cooking a special meal? I'm interested to hear...maybe I'll get some ideas too!

Now, I leave you with this - what an amazing gift of love we have from our heavenly Father, who loves us each day the same, no questions asked. No lack of carnations, or flowery cards, or nights alone can separate us from the love that is there for the taking.

Grasp the love, and cling tightly my friends.

Blessings to all of you...

Lest you think I'm always Eeyore...

I'm realizing how down in the dumps my last posts seem, so it's time to lighten it up a bit. I have a wonderful life. An awesome life. My spouse - he's amazing. My kids - beautiful, inside and out. I could go on and on, but I won't bore you to tears. I'll just share a few pictures to brighten the day...Without further ado...my goofy family:





Hope you all have a good day -

I'm not sure I like this introspective journey...

Well, I thought it would be helpful to continue to blog about The Love Dare and how I'm progressing... You know, keep a little on-line journal reflecting on not only the journey through the book, but also talk a bit about the Fireproof Your Marriage class Brad and I are teaching on Sundays. I'd like to report that I am just doing fantabulous and this is the best journey I have ever taken -

But, I'm not into printing lies. This blog is about the truth - painful as it may be. :) The road that I have taken has become a bit bumpy. I've come to a screeching, abrupt, dig in my heels, I don't want any more of this self-reflection, this is too difficult and I don't want to change, my marriage is just fine, don't analyze this to death, halt.

Okay, maybe that is a bit overdramatic.

However, I have been stuck where I'm at for a good week I think. I'm been trying to figure out what it is that keeps me from moving forward. Why not go on to the next step? Take another dare? Am I not brave enough, motivated enough, strong enough? What am I afraid of?

I'm trying to get those questions answered in my mind - and with my Bible. Right now, my thoughts on the process are so crazy that I can't seem to spend one moment on one train of thought without all the other thoughts coming in to beat me down and make me question what I am doing.

But, I firmly believe that our ol' evil foe, Satan himself, is at the root of this problem. He is rearing his ugly head and pushing me in the opposite direction that I need to go. He is grabbing my hand and pulling me away from the marriage God desires me to have. He is testing my faith, daring me to fail, telling me lies like "You're not worthy", "Brad will just disappoint you anyway", "What's the point?", "Everything is going to backfire", "Look how he's paying more attention to everything else", "See how unimportant you are?" and many other thoughts like these. And, Satan is subtle. He uses little, everyday life scenarios to make me question everything I'm doing. I feel much more vulnerable going through the book and seeking what I can do to get better, while Satan is right there whispering in my ear how unfair it is that I should make all the changes, that I should be the one to do things better, and on, and on, and on, ad nauseum.

He's a nasty little guy. I've been down in the dumps for about 5 days due to him.

But, he's not going to win. He's going to have to back off and get out of the way, 'cause I see what he's doing to me. It took me a few days, but I finally recognize it.

It's a battle, but I've got my armor on now. I think I was missing a few pieces, but now I am fully cloaked. I may slip, I may fall, but I will always get up. I've got a Savior uplifting me, and he's stronger than anything I face on a day to day basis.

Just writing this is going to help. I just know it.

Plus, God promises that it will be better - James 1:12 says, "Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him."

Now, that's a promise worth remembering.

So, if you dare to take The Love Dare, don't do it without your Lord and Savior by your side. I have him with me and it is still a struggle. Realize you are going to face trials. Satan is going to persecute you and make you question every move you make.

Don't let him in.

Stand solid on the rock of Jesus Christ.

I dare you. :)

Simple Woman's Daybook - February 9, 2009

FOR TODAY...

Outside my window...rainy, dreary day - all I want to do is curl up with a good book so I could snooze and lounge the day away

I am thinking...how this time of year is not my favorite, as I am very antsy for spring and the fresh color of green to bless the land

I am thankful for...a mom who is gently prodding me to follow through with some educational testing for my oldest son

From the learning rooms...TJ is going to learn how to use the "widgets" section of an online program today as she loves to put inventions together. That will keep her entertained and learning while the older two plug away

From the kitchen...have chicken breasts thawing for something???

I am wearing...slippers, wool socks, jeans, blue shirt with a flannel shirt over the top

I am creating...a list of dictation my dh needs to get done before I can send out some billing

I am going...to hopefully get a menu planned for the week so I can get to the store and use our money in the best way

I am reading...The first book in Francine Rivers Mark of the Lion series, and I'm still working on The Love Dare

I am hoping...for a light dusting of snow to cover all the bare, brown earth

I am hearing...JT teaching TJ how to use the widgets program

Around the house...seems like our "Mission Organization" has fallen slightly by the wayside - I'd like to get the kids back on track and keep our house in better order...at the very least, I'd like to get the storage room back to its normal state

One of my favorite things...a big bowl of steaming, hot, flavorful soup - I could eat soup every day!

A few plans for the rest of the week: Church meeting tonight, Wednesday noon presentation, church activities Wed night, a focus group meeting Thursday, cookies to bake for Valentine's Day, and something???? for Saturday, but not sure what it will be yet

Here is picture thought I am sharing... This picture reminds me each time of God's light leading the way through a dark world!

Join Peggy and other daybookers through the link at right --->

Blessings to you all! Have a wonderful week!

Love Dare update...

As Dennis Rainey said this week in one of his sessions from his Family Life Today radio program, "If you aren't actively working on your marriage, you're losing ground." Brad and I had a discussion about that because marriage IS hard work. But, there are many days that you don't want to do the work - not spend the time with your spouse, do what you want to do, not put the other one first...you know the feeling. And, let's face it, who wants marriage to be "work"? Who wants to refer to it that way?

When we were discussing this, Brad initially said that he didn't think you would actually lose ground if you weren't actively working on your marriage. So, as we talked about it, we decided that if you are invested in your marriage, then you are doing the things you should be doing to improve and continue to grow your marriage...things like putting the other person first, looking out for the needs of your spouse, showing love and/or respect. And, if you are doing these things, you are moving in the right direction. Marriage is a dynamic process and always in need of work. It never reaches the goal of perfection.

But, as I said before, no one wants to think of marriage as work. My prayer is that you see the time you spend with your spouse as one of joy. I pray that you don't see yourself having to WORK at your marriage, but instead see it as a calling from God to do his bidding, to follow in the design he intends. Wouldn't it be great if it could be second nature to leave our selfishness behind and eagerly look to serve the other? Love that is unconditional will do this, despite the circumstances. But, as I am really learning in The Love Dare, it can't be done on our own. We have to tap into the power of the Holy Spirit to truly carry out this challenge. Spend time in the Word. Spend time with your spouse. Take the time to invest in your marriage, and explore your relationship.

Be in the Word. We know we cannot change others, only the power of Christ can do that. But, we can be assured that Christ is our Lord and Savior, and his example to us of perfect love is amazing. Strive to follow in his footsteps and choose to love, respect, and honor your mate as Christ intends. What a blessed gift we have received in the marriage covenant. May it always be honored and cherished.

I admit, as soon as Brad found out that I was doing the love dare challenge, it seemed to cause me to slack a bit. The excitement of doing all these things for him without his knowledge was no longer as strong, and I needed to take a step back and analyze why I was doing this. Was it for the thrill of his recognition? Was it to look good in his eyes? Or, was it to truly grow and be a better wife? Unfortunately, all of these things may have been true. But, ultimately, the last question is the most important. I do desire a stronger, more intimate marriage. I do know that it won't happen overnight. Some days are easier than others. It is VERY difficult to put the other person first when everything within you screams to do it your way. It is a huge lesson in personal sacrifice, and a humbling experience in how selfish you are as an individual. It is a dare to become stronger in the Word, and become a better person, spouse, and mother.

It is a challenge that I cannot do without the Holy Spirit in me.

So, I am trying. By God's power, I am trying. May I ever be his faithful servant, imperfect as I am.

I'm on Day 16, Love Intercedes, and I'll probably be there for a few days. I have some things to get right in my heart before I feel I can move on effectively. Thank goodness I don't need to do it on my own.

But, I'm blessed to be a part of this journey. I'm blessed to have a patient husband. I'm blessed to love the Lord and blessed that He loves me more. Despite everything. Praise the Lord.

(Love)always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. I Corinthians 13:7

Back from the bakery

Oh my goodness. Get me off this sugar train. I have been a victim (albeit, a willing one) in a indulgence of sweets in epic proportions. (Did you see that? I used albeit...what a word find.)

Seriously, Super Bowl eating is not for the faint of heart, or those weak with self-control. I think I ate for about 5 straight hours last night. We went to a friend's house and had wings, sandwiches, crackers, cheese, chips, shrimp, yummy rye bread ho rs devourers, (sp???) cheesecake bites, chocolate eclairs, cookies, soup, pretzel mix, and more that I probably have indulged in but forgot in my feeding frenzy.

So, somewhere in my food induced coma that I somehow aroused from this am, I decided that we needed a change of scenery for the start of our school day. Enter Queen City Bakery. Located at Latitude 44, this delectable experience comes from New York City with a pastry chef straight out of Baked (which I assume is a bakery in before mentioned city). I knew I was in trouble when there were NO breakfast items in the showcase. Bringing three children into a bakery with no breakfast items is a problem. Why? Well, let's just say that the entire casing was filled with all things chocolate. Triple chocolate brownies, Espresso cake with buttercream frosting, chocolate muffins, red velvet, on and on and on.

I could convert to being a sugar freak. Throw away the chips, boys, I'm in.

Well, I couldn't very well be rude and walk out. After all, did I really think they would have fruits interestingly displayed for immediate purchase rather than pastries? I hadn't just entered the Health Food Bakery. So, what any normal mother would do (who is a glutton (no pun intended) for punishment) is to purchase their children, prior to doing their schoolwork, two triple chocolate brownies and a LARGE slice of Espresso cake.

Hello? Who does this? Did you really expect them to get any work done with a zillion tablespoons of sugar pulsing through their veins?

Did I mention I got coffee?

I was such a good girl. I didn't need chocolate. I'm a salt fanatic.

"No, JD, I'm not drooling on your chocolate cake. A bite? Well, I suppose if you really think you could spare one, I'd just take a quick little one. I'll give you back your fork in a minute. Oh, you said just one? Well, you'll have to wrestle me for it now. Who holds the answer keys, big fella? I can fail you in school at a moment's notice. Step away from the cake. Step away from the cake. You don't know who you're dealing with here, sonny."

I had three bites actually.

And one from each of the brownies.

And, we actually worked, really well. REALLY well. For about 30 minutes until the sugar rush ran out. Then we laid on the floor and slept like babies. Yes, the floor of the bakery. They just stepped over our bodies. They said it happens all the time.

I revived enough to buy my dear husband a piece and drop it off at his work for a special treat. I love him so. I just don't care, obviously, if he gets any work done as he will be curled up in a treatment room all afternoon sleeping off the sugar drug.

Oh, and when I got home, I opened the fridge to find the leftover cheesecake bites. I'll just pull out the syringe to inject it directly to get through our afternoon of Science and Literature.

Once all of it is gone, we won't see sweets in this house for a good couple of months. Not until Easter. Or maybe President's Day. Okay, maybe tomorrow.

All I know is that I need to make another pot of coffee, because it's going to be a LONG afternoon.

Now, where are those chips?

Simple Woman's Daybook - February 2, 2009

FOR TODAY...

Outside my window...bright, crisp, cool morning with the winds expected to pick up

I am thinking...that we are going to head into town this morning and do some schoolwork in a different setting

I am thankful for...warm blankets, quilts, and heat, money for gas, my dh who works so hard

From the learning rooms...today is a full Monday with piano lessons added and every subject

From the kitchen...absolutely nothing going on in there - even the coffee pot hasn't been started yet as we're heading to town (Queen City Bakery - yum,yum)

I am wearing...blue jeans, socks and slippers, long sleeve shirt with a black pullover sweatshirt

I am creating...very little at the moment

I am going...oops, already listed this - in to town to drop Brad off, grab some IRS forms he needs, and then to the bakery for some schooling

I am reading...a new Francine Rivers book from the Mark of the Lion series (It's upstairs but I think that is what it is!) It will be started later this evening (I hope!)

I am hoping...that I can start my book this evening, that we can wrap up some computer decisions

I am hearing...kids getting their books together in their backpacks

Around the house...we were busy all weekend so we got a bit out of control, so today we need to corner the chaos

One of my favorite things...Superbowl food - gnoshing on any and everything, which is exactly what I did - WOW!
A few plans for the rest of the week: I should exercise, that's for sure! Church activities, meetings, piano, nothing too big

Here is picture thought I am sharing...
Snuggling up!

Have a great week - join other daybookers by linking through the button on the right.

I've been busted...

Well, I guess this is a good thing. I've been outed. Is that how you spell that? Anyway, around Christmas, on one of the Barnes and Noble sales, I bought The Love Dare. Now, this is not the type of book you give as a gift to someone else. Somehow, I think you'd be taking several steps backward if you gave this to your spouse. In essence, you are saying, "Gee, I think you really need to use this to love me better, because what you are doing is obviously not working or adequate. So, go ahead and march through the 40 days, then get back to me and we'll talk."

Now, if you gave your spouse The Love Dare as a gift, I apologize for my above statement.

However, if you didn't, I would recommend getting it for yourself as a gift for your spouse. (Wow, that's confusing.) Let me explain. This book charts out 40 days of daily life lessons that you can do to improve how you treat your spouse, how you approach him/her, how you can improve and grow and strengthen your love. I have a good marriage. I have a husband who loves the Lord, loves his family, loves to be with his family, and tries to put us first. While all these things are true, I don't always treat him the way I should. I am selfish, often put my needs first, question him which directly speaks to my respect for him, and can sometimes be a nag. I'm not too proud to admit it. So, now I'm in a 40 step recovery program to improve on all that. That's what I call it anyway.

"Hello, my name is Sarah, and I have a problem with loving my husband unconditionally."

"Hello, Sarah."

Seriously, don't we all have a problem with that? Can't we all do better? I love how this book lays out simple steps each day to make you more AWARE of what you are doing, supporting it with biblical principles, and then challenges you to do something specific each day to grow and improve your marriage. That's why I think it is such a great tool. Because I don't want to have a good marriage.

I want to have an awesome, out of this world, love has no bounds, spectacular marriage. And, I believe God wants us to have that, too.

So, last night, my dh asks if I am doing something like The Love Dare. Of course I look at him blankly to see what he means, and ask why he would ask such a thing. He responded that it seemed like I was being more kind to him (gasp, have I been unkind?), touching him more (I am not a touchy-feely person), and just have been acting different (PTL, he has seen a difference).

Well, I finally 'fessed up that I was working through the book, but was only on Day 11. (Sometimes, I have to spend more than one day on a lesson to really give it justice, you know) But, I was always hoping that he would see a difference if I went through this endeavor, so I am excited that he has. I pray that I can keep up the changes to improve and further invest in the best earthly gift I have been given, that of my husband.

Brad, you are the best thing that has happened to me. It is a joy for me to learn how to love you more. I love you. I will always try to live by this verse:

"Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus." Philippians 2:5

That's one of many I am trying to emulate. I'll try, I'll fail, but I'll keep moving in the right direction. Thanks for your patience.

For my firstborn...

JD,

You did a really nice thing yesterday. The phonics reader you made for your sister was a gift from your heart. I know you love to draw, so that part was easy for you. But to add all the words and strive to have perfect spelling and handwriting, that is a gift of love.

I will treasure that special book, and I absolutely love "Beed" and "Bob". You have such a gift of drawing. God has blessed you with that talent and you absolutely amaze me with how you can continue to improve with how you show movement and perspective. Keep using your talent for God's glory.

Love,
Mom

I have a confession to make...

I hate teaching science.

Does that make me a horrible teacher?

I teach my kids at home, am responsible for their entire academic learning process, and I dread, each and every day, teaching them science.

Not all science.

Just anything that has to do with earth science, chemistry, physics, gravity, forces of nature, weather, the earth's atmosphere, the world's oceans, and taxonomy of both plants and animals.

Hmmm. That consists of all but two units of this year's science curriculum.

I DO love teaching anything and everything about cells, cell processes, and physiology. Guess that is why I didn't become a nuclear physisist and instead pursued an occupational therapy degree.

You would think I would be excited about learning all these things once again, because now I can see their relevance in my world.

Wrong. I still don't get it. I guess that makes me NOT smarter than a 5th grader.

But, I'm trying to be a darn good actress and showing my kids all my enthusiasm for this great world of scientific discovery.

Thank goodness for Cosmeo to explain it when I can't. Heck, even Schoolhouse Rock has it figured out better than I do.

Off to utilize my wheel and axle to get us to tonight's church activities...

Simple Devotion - January 28, 2009

For Today...

Dear Lord,

I'll bring you my shortcomings...Lord, I don't spend enough time with you and I want to change that. I know you're there, I trust in you, but I want to deepen the relationship we have.

I'll bring you my worship and praise...I praise you for the variety you created in men and women. I praise you for the differences that are deeply imbedded within us which makes us each unique and special. Your awesomeness is so apparent in how you created each and every one of us. I praise you for being the molder of the clay.

I'll bring you my prayer...Lord, draw not only me, but my family closer to you. My prayer is ongoing that we will be a witness to everyone we meet. I pray that we will touch a life each and every day. Help everyone see the light in us that only you can flame.

You spoke to me...In the gentle voice of TJ this morning. What a blessing when she wanted to "talk to me privately" about a concern with a friend. When I asked her what she thought we should do, she immediately said we should pray about it. Lord, you are speaking to me through her. May my first sense always be to pray, rather than it be an afterthought.

Please feel free to join your heart with others through the Simple Devotion link on the right...

May God bless your day!

Fireproof

If you haven't seen the movie, get out and get the DVD. Rent it, buy it, see it. We have not bought one movie, ever, on the day it has come out in the stores. Today was the release of Fireproof, and we picked it up at our local Christian bookstore. This is a great way to strengthen your marriage, foster communication, and solidify the foundation that God has blessed.

And, if you are lucky enough to have a Focus on Marriage Simulcast in your area Feb. 28th, get your tickets today to attend with your spouse. Spend the day working on the best gift of all, each other. Look here for more information.

Can you afford not to?

Finally, take some time tonight to snuggle up with your spouse and love on him. Share what makes him special. There's no time like the present to do it.

Blessings to you...

Simple Woman's Daybook - January 26, 2009

FOR TODAY... (Please link to Peggy's daybook at right -->)

Outside my window...a very fine, light snow is falling. Accumulations to be just a dusting, but hopefully it will cover the brown and bring the world back to a glorious shade of white

I am thinking...how full our day is today, as usual, for a Monday

I am thankful for...my dh's attitude and self sacrifice; I am so blessed to be married to a godly man who is working on growing each and every day

From the learning rooms...all subjects today - Science test as well over forces - eeks

From the kitchen...JT is cooking himself some eggs and the pot of coffee just finished brewin'

I am wearing...typical Monday uniform - layers, layers, layers

I am creating...a clean space on my desk to work today

I am going...probably to the grocery store - man, I bought a ton of groceries last week but we plowed through them all

I am reading...misc. magazines around the house and one book which I'll clue you in on later...

I am hoping...I can better reorganize my days and I can not be drawn to the computer so much

I am hearing...the space heater running to heat up our school area. This plus three add't bodies keeps it cozy in here. Too cozy as the distractions seem to bother the oldest

Around the house...wash sheets in our bedroom today and do some general pick-up

One of my favorite things...A pastor who preaches the Gospel with skill, ease, and conviction

A few plans for the rest of the week: generalized clean up around the house, keep the basement in order, couple time with Brad

Here is picture thought I am sharing...
A flashback to fall, my favorite season. Most people have leaves. This year we had cornstalks!

Have a blessed week!

25 things you may or may not know about me...

My fellow blogger, Joyce, at Mom's Musings, had been "tagged" to write 25 goals, facts, and habits about herself and challenged others to do the same. Since I am the queen of random thoughts, I thought I would take the challenge. Try it yourself and see what kind of things come to mind. My goal is to write 25 things in way less than 5 minutes.

1. Coffee is my favorite beverage but I would substitute an umbrella drink on the beach if needed.
2. I homeschool my three children, work for my husband, while trying to manage our household.
3. I love to read, particularly Christian fiction, but I am working on adding more non-fiction to my repertoire.
4. I have a stack of Christian, self-help books at my bedside, mostly half read.
5. I am a hermit at heart, and don't mind if I don't leave the house for days.
6. I can wiggle my ears and my nose at the same time.
7. I prefer salty snacks to sweet, hands down.
8. I like dark chocolate better than milk chocolate.
9. I used to practice crawling out of car windows because I wanted to be a flight attendant.
10. I have to work at being an optimist, but I continue to try and improve.
11. I love to take baths to get warm to the core.
12. I used to be an occupational therapist, but have let my license lapse.
(5 minutes have come and gone...)
13. We are a Survivor family - we love the show; we DVR it so that my kids don't have to watch the nasty commercials - we DVR most shows for the same reason. We don't watch a lot of TV, but dh and I love Top Chef, Frasier, and Seinfeld
14. I would like to learn to knit and/or crochet
15. I don't get home to see my mom, or call her often enough
16. My dad died when I was 12, and he was a pastor
17. I am so thankful that I was raised in a godly home, and am married to a godly man who loves me with all his heart
18. I am proud to be the mother of my three children and greatly blessed in that I can stay home with them every day
19. I am not too proud to say that some days my children are not too happy that I stay home with them every day :)
20. Dad is the fun one in this relationship - I don't "play" very well
21. I am getting tired of saying "I"
22. I need to read my bible more, exercise more, and eat better
23. Some of my closest friends were initially met through the internet via the curriculum I use...but I have been blessed to be able to grow a relationship with them and see them once a year the past few years. I hope it can continue!!
24. My biggest issues that I deal with most likely boils down to my selfishishness
25. I hate the ending of the movie Message in a Bottle

Wow - that was harder than I thought.

I LOVE Saturday mornings...

Well, let me rephrase that a bit. I love Saturday mornings when my dh doesn't get up and go in to work, when we can all wake up at a leisurely pace, and lounge the morning away. What a luxury it is to be able to gradually meet the day, greet each other with a cup of steaming coffee in hand, and wear pajamas until noon. (Actually, I'd freeze if I wore them that long, but it's a nice thought.) I need my layers around here to keep warm!

So, today, dh snuck out of our room to try and let me sleep in a bit. I've been having some difficulty sleeping this past week, so I was looking forward to a little extra snooze time. Of course, it seems that whenever you have the opportunity for it, you can't sleep which was actually the case this morning for me. I was awake, but did spend some time just lounging and relaxing in my bed, enjoying the solitude and peace. I took some time to lift up my family in prayer and continue to place them in God's hands. I am so thankful we have a Lord and Savior who allows us to approach his throne with our requests and praise. Seems like I lean more towards the requests and not enough towards the praise so I need to continue to work on my focus!

Brad started a fire in the fireplace at 9:30 so we are enjoying the snap and crackle of the logs earlier than we usually do. It's a treat to have a fire at night, but even more so to enjoy it throughout the day! We played a game of family "Blokus" with a steaming cup of coffee, and the day was off to a great start. Steaming coffee is one of life's simplest pleasures, and I think I have made it my adult security blanket. The majority of my day is spent with cup in hand - even if it is just to keep me warm...

Plans for the rest of the day include a game of Monopoly, Herd Your Horses, and maybe some closet cleaning. We already got through some work for the office so that is nice to check that off the list. I'm excited about our full class for "Fireproof Your Marriage" that will be meeting tomorrow - last week we started the class with a review of God's model for the family from "The Truth Project"...powerful stuff. God's design is imbedded into everything and we frequently stray from what he intends. Our challenge is to stay the course and hopefully influence others in our walk as well. I pray we all, as a family, can be a light to each person we come in contact with on a daily basis.

Off to heat up the cup that has cooled...

Enjoy YOUR Saturday -

It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood...

What a beautiful day today is. I so needed to get outside and breathe in the crisp, fresh air. Seems like it has been forever since I went outside for something other than the garbage, recycling, feeding the animals, or getting in or out of my car. Dh, JD, and I (along with Baxter and our two cats) took a walk around the neighborhood without freezing!

I have beef stew in the crockpot for supper along with some italian bread in the bread maker. Brad is excited because the Minnesota Gophers are going to be playing on ESPN2 so we can watch them this evening. Sounds like supper will be in front of the television tonight. The boys will be excited about that.

TJ and I need to get some schooling done yet, so I'm off to read Rapunzel and work on time. You never realize what a difficult concept that is until you try to teach it. She's still trying to figure out why 30 minutes after 2 is not 6 after 2. Confusing.

Off to teach and enjoy the sunshine just a bit more...

A post for the sake of posting...

Goodness, this blog has not worked out the way I had intended. It is barely all I can do to get two posts a week done. I had originally planned for this to be my so-called "journal" of sorts, with grandiose ideas of capturing special moments from our lives and compiling it into one area for easy access. So far, that really hasn't worked very well!

It seems life is so busy, and I'm constantly moving from one fire to the next. There's nary a time to breathe and just "be". When I do, I either feel guilty and I'm back up again to move to the next thing on my list, or I fall asleep! Seriously, sitting down and relaxing for a moment really does nothing but make me tired!

Today, I'm going to just jot down a few things I would like to accomplish by this time next week. At least then I will have a tangible list to see how much I have accomplished by next week.

1. Research computer and tv purchase for mom
2. Computer purchase for work?
3. Exchange air mattress at Walmart
4. Clean TJ's room
5. Clean the upstairs hallway
6. Assess school schedules for all three kids and plot out remainder of the year plan
7. Go through clothes in my closet
8. Prepare for bible study on Sunday
9. Meal plan for entire week
10. Write out calendar for entire week
11. Finish living room cleaning
12. Get outside
13. Start taking vitamens
14. Start exercising??????

Okay, that's enough. Work stuff goes in there as well, but that doesn't have to be written down as that's a given. We'll see what happens in a week and how much progress I can make.

Overall, I just want to keep a positive attitude and keep looking up!

Simple Devotion

For Today...

Dear Lord,

I'll bring you my shortcomings...Again, my selfishness always finds a way to creep into my day. Lord, I continue to turn it over to you to rebuild and mold me more in your image. I am not perfect, but I do want to be more like you.

I'll bring you my worship and praise...Father God, you touch lives in ways many of us don't understand, or even comprehend. Sometimes you touch us in ways we do not even see until long past the day when you intervened. As the songwriter says, "You are God of all, before time began, you are God alone." May my days be full of worship and praise to you, the Father of all creation.

I'll bring you my prayer...Today, I bring you my pastor and his wife. Lord, the challenges are great to lead your flock, and I pray that you will uplift and uphold him as he seeks your will and guidance.

You spoke to me...I feel compelled to use the same verse as last week, to guide me in my works and ways... "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves." Philippians 2:3

Please feel free to join your heart with others through the Simple Devotion link on the right...

May God bless your day!

A Simple Woman's Daybook - January 19, 2009

(Please join others through the daybook link at right...)

FOR TODAY...

Outside my window...Cloudy day, but happy it is not so cold. 20 degrees feels like springtime around here

I am thinking...what a blessing it is to be able to stay home with my kids and teach them in our home

I am thankful for...my dh who gets up and goes to work every day, manages the finances, is active in our church, and leads a godly life to be an example for his family and everyone he encounters

From the learning rooms...JT is taking a math test, JD is rushing through his work as he has computer on the brain, TJ is at my beck and call to start whenever we can get her going

From the kitchen...need to make a menu plan for the week. I did really well over the weekend cooking meatloaf, chicken and rice, but now I need to plan for the week. I think I will do beef stew and crusty bread or a different soup tonight

I am wearing...wool socks, jeans, long sleeve white tee and flannel shirt

I am creating...lesson plans for the week and trying to get a calendar for all of our activities updated

I am going...to the dreaded Walmart to take back a few things and get some necessities; We're getting a Kohl's and Target on this side of town in the next year and I can't wait!!

I am reading...nothing right now. My attention span has been poor and I haven't been able to focus on some of the library books I have checked out. Just too many other things to do that I haven't been able to enjoy reading

I am hoping...to continue to keep on top of the organization around this house - seems like it is a continual battle with us here all day and one project always leads to another!

I am hearing...TJ chattering about her birthday party for her stuffed bear, JD humming as he does math problems and JT humming his way through a math problem as well. The low grade noise is all over the place.

Around the house...I need to find a final resting place for the rest of the Christmas gifts that are still in our living room. We've been playing the games frequently and they need to get a special home where we'll still get them out. I find if they are easily accessible, we play them more often.

One of my favorite things...my prayer shawl and my cup of coffee with my bible in hand

A few plans for the rest of the week: payroll, statements at the office, general cleaning around the house, choir for kids, final prep for Discovery workshop at church if we get a few more people

Here is picture thought I am sharing...
Special cousins together at Christmas...

I hope you all have a blessed week!

A Simple Devotion - January 14, 2009

For Today...

Dear Lord,

I'll bring you my shortcomings...My fuse is constantly short and I struggle to look outward vs inward. Lord, you know how I am made, and I pray you will continue to guide my eyes toward others and away from myself.

I'll bring you my worship and praise...Lord, I praise you for a good health report for a dear friend, that you have held her and her family in the palm of your hand while awaiting results of tests. I praise you for the way you work in our lives, through a simple touch, or an outright miracle, your hand is in everything. Each of us are amazingly made, and it is awe inspiring to see your handiwork.

I'll bring you my prayer...Father God, I pray for you to always be at work in our family, that you can make us a unit knitted together in you. Help us as parents to guide our children in your ways, and to be examples of you in all we do and say. I also pray that you will guide people to the classes at our church beginning this Sunday so that, as a church body, we can all become more deeply rooted in you in order to share the Gospel with others.

You spoke to me...You are guiding me to be less selfish, and I see this challenge in the days and weeks to come. Blessedly, you provide assurances of help when we struggle with earthly problems. "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves." Philippians 2:3

May God bless your day!
(To join others using the Simple Devotion, use the button at the right to link)

A Simple Woman's Daybook - January 12, 2009

FOR TODAY...

Outside my window...not quite sunny with a wicked cold front and wind coming through later today

I am thinking...that this will be a full day of school and I'm trusting it will be quite productive

I am thankful for...a chance to catch up on sleep and that we all have been extremely healthy this winter thus far

From the learning rooms...still yet to get the ball rolling this morning, but we will do all subjects today

From the kitchen...thai chicken perhaps for supper? Have some chicken in the fridge that has to be used; Will also back chocolate chip cookies as the butter is out and ready to be used

I am wearing...slippers, socks, yoga pants, long sleeve white top and pullover black sweatshirt

I am creating...not much - getting ready for the start of two new bible studies this week that we are teaching

I am going...probably to the store later today so we can nestle in for the next few days

I am reading...Rachel Ray's magazine to get some fresh ideas

I am hoping...that today goes smootly, that I can balance school with work and home activities

I am hearing...the shower run as Brad gets ready for a late start today

Around the house...finish re-organizing the storage room now that all the Christmas decorations are put away

One of my favorite things...a well thought out day with everything planned for school - unfortunately, that's not how today is thus far!

A few plans for the rest of the week: clean TJ's and JD's room again as they have gotten a bit out of hand, family meeting, master calendar for January, deal with work computer issue, spend daily time with the Lord

Here is picture thought I am sharing...


Please click on the Simple Daybook button on the right to find the original Simple Woman's Daybook!

I pray you all have a blessed week!

A Simple Woman's Daybook - January 6, 2009

FOR TODAY...

Outside my window...slightly hazy, but soon to be sunny, cold and crisp morning

I am thinking...what a challenge this week is going to be

I am thankful for...safe travels home by all my family. Many traveled along icy highways and saw many accidents, but all made it home safe

From the learning rooms... a bit of extra vacation time due to having to work this week - we're hoping to be able to get math, vocab, spelling, and literature done despite the change in schedule

From the kitchen...just washing dishes right now to clean up from last night - lasagna is on the menu for this evening

I am wearing...brown corduroys, white shirt, brown patterned sweater, fuzzy socks, and slippers - all stuff I can wear to work!

I am creating...lttle to nothing at this point!

I am going...to work today as dh's receptionist is ill and we're not sure when she'll be back

I am reading...nothing at the moment - in between books

I am hoping...that we can still have a good devotion for all the kids at church tomorrow night despite the fact that we still need to prepare it

I am hearing...the furnace clunking on and off - just a matter of time before the repair man will have to venture out here I am sure

Around the house...general clean up as it gets out of hand pretty quickly when we don't stay on top of things or the schedule is changed up; still need to take the tree down as well

One of my favorite things...today, it is my cup of coffee that also keeps me warm!

A few plans for the rest of the week: decorations away, plan for JD's birthday on Saturday, devotion planning for Wed night, and update blog with all of our past activities during the holiday weeks

Here is picture thought I am sharing...



Have a blessed week!