Posts
Here are pictures from Christmas Pageant last weekend, the art class last week, our new puppy Tucker and gift unwrapping. More from us later. Trying to get a couple of things done before the blizzard hits tomorrow!
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
WildBranch Ministries.
Let's see if I've done this right! Here's an article I read yesterday that is just awesome about the Hebrew Roots movement of YHWH. Please let me know if I've added it correctly!!! http://www.wildbranch.org/teachings/articles/08information.html
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Gingerbread Build Off!
What a great afternoon with friends! It was a total success with the appropriate sugar high that followed!
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Our First Shabbat!
It was our first real Shabbat and I loved every minute of it. Dinner was wonderful. The children lit the 3 candles on the table. (We don't have a menorah, but I did tell them it was the 3rd night of Hanukkah; a festival we'd understand more about next year.) So we had 3 candles. Emily switched out one of the candles and brought out a crystal Angel candlestick holder to ensure Messiah was represented. I was touched at her attempt to keep the focus on the signifigance.
John came home and lead us all in the Torah Portion reading for the whole week. The children enjoyed the telling of the story of Joseph and his brothers. The redemptive portion of the story brought tears to my eyes as I think of one of our own children with so much to overcome. It was a joy to have John read the Word to us! Thanks, honey. We love you.
Sabbath was nice. We rested a ton in our own way. John enjoys cooking for us as a way to truly relax. He made an amazing fish chowder. We enjoyed watching college football together and conversation. John and Jesse marched in the local Christmas parade (for the first and last time....with the local Cub Scout Pack. John is the Den leader.) After the sun went down we called the kids onto the bed and each prayed a prayer of Thanksgiving over our day and a chance to rest and enjoy being a family.
I'm surprised by the Ruach and His leading. The changes we are trying to make seem very natural and normal. I'll have to ask John if he's feeling the same way.
I'm so grateful to all of you for your comments and words of love and prayers on our behalf. I've printed a calendar so I can keep up with the actual days and did order the book from Amazon on the Feasts of Isreal. It looked wonderful to me and a great compliment to the Walking with Y'shua and Biblical Holidays Books we already have.
We are ready to dig in and start enjoying the Feasts of Yah!
Happy Hanukkah to all!
John came home and lead us all in the Torah Portion reading for the whole week. The children enjoyed the telling of the story of Joseph and his brothers. The redemptive portion of the story brought tears to my eyes as I think of one of our own children with so much to overcome. It was a joy to have John read the Word to us! Thanks, honey. We love you.
Sabbath was nice. We rested a ton in our own way. John enjoys cooking for us as a way to truly relax. He made an amazing fish chowder. We enjoyed watching college football together and conversation. John and Jesse marched in the local Christmas parade (for the first and last time....with the local Cub Scout Pack. John is the Den leader.) After the sun went down we called the kids onto the bed and each prayed a prayer of Thanksgiving over our day and a chance to rest and enjoy being a family.
I'm surprised by the Ruach and His leading. The changes we are trying to make seem very natural and normal. I'll have to ask John if he's feeling the same way.
I'm so grateful to all of you for your comments and words of love and prayers on our behalf. I've printed a calendar so I can keep up with the actual days and did order the book from Amazon on the Feasts of Isreal. It looked wonderful to me and a great compliment to the Walking with Y'shua and Biblical Holidays Books we already have.
We are ready to dig in and start enjoying the Feasts of Yah!
Happy Hanukkah to all!
Friday, December 3, 2010
The Last Tree
As it's Friday and sundown will begin the Sabbath, we are preparing in our home today. I'll be making a roast in the crockpots, some stirfry veggies and fresh bread from the breadmaker. We also picked up some sparkling cider for the kids. John won't be able to make it home right at sundown, commuting in D.C. doesn't allow for that right now. However, dinner will be ready for 6:30 sharp and he should be home by then. The kids finished up a bit of light schooling this morning and are busy at chores to get the house ready for a restful Shabbat. I'll add some pictures later of our first Shabbat meal. Tonight is also the 3rd night of Hanukkah. We hope to be celebrating this time of dedication in a more clear light this time next year.
In the meantime, can anyone tell me what day of the year it is, for REAL?! Is there a widget I could download for my blog to help me/us stay on track?
Please keep praying for us, T.O. families. We seek Messiah and Him alone. John still has many concerns about this way of life and taking things in the Bible out of context. I share some. We simply want Truth in our home to be present, leading us as we rebuild and seek the I AM's Light shining on our path.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
In My Home Recently
I can't believe it's been so long in between posts from me. To say we've been busy is an understatment. God is moving in our lives so let me get right to it.
1. We won't be moving to Kuwait in the summer. After lots of prayer by ourselves and so many others seeking the LORD on our behalf; John approached a respected General Officer and asked for a year deferment. It was granted nearly on the spot. We've been humbled at the support we've had up the chain of command at the Pentagon as well as at Assignments Branch. Now that all the paperwork is in and signed appropriately, we are waiting for some direction from the Army. This change in plans allows us to continue to work with Adam and with YHWH's help, launch him into adulthood.
2. Of course all along the way in our current struggles, we've told Adam that his actions dictate our actions. He's continuing to show signs of healing and getting better. We are so grateful for this and would ask you to continue to pray that only the Holy Spirit (Ruach) would have His perfect way in Adam's life! We look forward to the day when we can begin to work on the interpersonal issues in our family that need healing as well.
3. Along the lines of family healing, John and I have been reading a great book on forgiveness entitled Unpacking Forgiveness: Biblical answers for complex questions and deep wounds. The author is Chris Brauns. I can't recommend this book enough. Pastor Brauns takes you methodically through the steps of forgiveness starting with why it's important for the offended person to forgive and who should receive forgiveness in your life. Forgiveness isn't about 'just getting over it'. If you've ever needed to understand forgiveness and how to display it in your life, this is the book for you!
4. I've been running. Yes, running. I'm in love with my new treadmill and we have consistent dates in the week for 4-6 miles at a time. I'm thinking I'd like to train for a half marathon. Running has taken up a great deal of time that I'd been spending on the computer, or even reading. Hence, with the emphasis on fitness, I've not been around much in cyber land. Boy, do my legs look great again.
5. Classical Conversations continues to be a wonderful way for the children to learn and create community for us in the Body of Christ. I look forward to my Wednesdays with my CC Campus each week. I feel as if I'm the one who's truly benefited from tutoring this year as well. I'm in love with the students in my class and their mother's are some of the sweetest friends I could ever have. Next year, I believe the children will continue with Foundations and move onto the Essentials program as well.
6. Scrapbooking: My creative outlet. I finished our 2009 album a few weeks ago and have started thinking about designing our 2010 album. I also want to tackle a baby album for Emily this upcoming year. Creative Memories just makes this so easy to do. I've completed 6 or 7 albums this year! Whew!
That about wraps up the news from here. I'll post some Thanksgiving pictures after we get back from a great day with friends in Pa.
1. We won't be moving to Kuwait in the summer. After lots of prayer by ourselves and so many others seeking the LORD on our behalf; John approached a respected General Officer and asked for a year deferment. It was granted nearly on the spot. We've been humbled at the support we've had up the chain of command at the Pentagon as well as at Assignments Branch. Now that all the paperwork is in and signed appropriately, we are waiting for some direction from the Army. This change in plans allows us to continue to work with Adam and with YHWH's help, launch him into adulthood.
2. Of course all along the way in our current struggles, we've told Adam that his actions dictate our actions. He's continuing to show signs of healing and getting better. We are so grateful for this and would ask you to continue to pray that only the Holy Spirit (Ruach) would have His perfect way in Adam's life! We look forward to the day when we can begin to work on the interpersonal issues in our family that need healing as well.
3. Along the lines of family healing, John and I have been reading a great book on forgiveness entitled Unpacking Forgiveness: Biblical answers for complex questions and deep wounds. The author is Chris Brauns. I can't recommend this book enough. Pastor Brauns takes you methodically through the steps of forgiveness starting with why it's important for the offended person to forgive and who should receive forgiveness in your life. Forgiveness isn't about 'just getting over it'. If you've ever needed to understand forgiveness and how to display it in your life, this is the book for you!
4. I've been running. Yes, running. I'm in love with my new treadmill and we have consistent dates in the week for 4-6 miles at a time. I'm thinking I'd like to train for a half marathon. Running has taken up a great deal of time that I'd been spending on the computer, or even reading. Hence, with the emphasis on fitness, I've not been around much in cyber land. Boy, do my legs look great again.
5. Classical Conversations continues to be a wonderful way for the children to learn and create community for us in the Body of Christ. I look forward to my Wednesdays with my CC Campus each week. I feel as if I'm the one who's truly benefited from tutoring this year as well. I'm in love with the students in my class and their mother's are some of the sweetest friends I could ever have. Next year, I believe the children will continue with Foundations and move onto the Essentials program as well.
6. Scrapbooking: My creative outlet. I finished our 2009 album a few weeks ago and have started thinking about designing our 2010 album. I also want to tackle a baby album for Emily this upcoming year. Creative Memories just makes this so easy to do. I've completed 6 or 7 albums this year! Whew!
That about wraps up the news from here. I'll post some Thanksgiving pictures after we get back from a great day with friends in Pa.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
MomHeart Intensive Training 2010
This is a video from the training weekend I attended back in August. On my side bar on the right, I've place a button for the Mom Heart Conferences that will be held around the country this Spring! Come join me in Raleigh, NC in March and discover why YOUR MOM HEART MATTERS! Can't wait to see you there with me.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Finding Quiet Time
In my Mom Heart Bible Study this week, we discussed the need to come beside quiet waters and refill our souls. I've been pondering over the years of seeking time with Him and His Word since the Moms left Tuesday evening.
When my 4 children were all very little, Bible time at our house was part of our school day and due to my need of sleep, Bible time with them was also my own Bible time. Awana Verses were memorized, Hero Tales were read about great missionaries of the past and we read biographies of some of them from the Trailblazer series. Slowly we learned together about the nature and character of God through the diligence of daily attention to His Word.
Then, during a more peaceful moment of the day doing dishes or folding laundry, my mind and heart could wander in personal meditation and prayer over what we'd learned or memorized that day.
Later, as the children grew, I was able to get out for a daily walk. Wow! Did that do wonders for my devotional time. Out in nature, viewing His creation, I felt surrounded by Him. I listened to sermons or hymns and walked mile upon mile lifting up prayer requests. I also had time to internalize sermons of the previous week. I often found myself finishing Sunday's sermon for myself. Finding a parallel to my own life, I could take the nugget from my Pastor and apply it to my life. All to soon, my walk would be over and I'd find myself at my door step. I enjoyed the time alone with the Lord so much I constantly fought the urge to just keep walking, praying, meditating. However, my children would need me to help guide them through the rest of their day and inside I'd go.
Those earlier years of obedience to seeking time with Him have been the foundation on which I've stood during our current times of hardship and suffering. If I'd not had the habit of seeking Him daily and not just at church on Sunday mornings, I can't envision where we'd be right now as a family. I'm reminded of the verse that says the wise man built his house upon the Rock. The storms came and the waves blew in, but the house on the Rock stood firm. Those bedrock building years with young children have catapulted me to going deeper with my Savior. With just 2 remaining children at home who are 11 and 8, I have time to get up in the early mornings with coffee and a devotional book and my Bible. I look forward to this time every morning as it's setting the tone for my day. But it's taken years of diligence to get here. The Christian life is not a sprint, it's a marathon. Endurance is needed. Be encouraged today to get alone with Him. Take your wee children into your lap and share a Truth with them about the Savior. Encourage your middle schooler with how you see God working in their life. Spend a few quiet minutes with Him this morning and allow him to nuture your soul.
Please, leave a comment and tell me how Quiet Times have affected your Walk! I'd love to hear from you.
When my 4 children were all very little, Bible time at our house was part of our school day and due to my need of sleep, Bible time with them was also my own Bible time. Awana Verses were memorized, Hero Tales were read about great missionaries of the past and we read biographies of some of them from the Trailblazer series. Slowly we learned together about the nature and character of God through the diligence of daily attention to His Word.
Then, during a more peaceful moment of the day doing dishes or folding laundry, my mind and heart could wander in personal meditation and prayer over what we'd learned or memorized that day.
Later, as the children grew, I was able to get out for a daily walk. Wow! Did that do wonders for my devotional time. Out in nature, viewing His creation, I felt surrounded by Him. I listened to sermons or hymns and walked mile upon mile lifting up prayer requests. I also had time to internalize sermons of the previous week. I often found myself finishing Sunday's sermon for myself. Finding a parallel to my own life, I could take the nugget from my Pastor and apply it to my life. All to soon, my walk would be over and I'd find myself at my door step. I enjoyed the time alone with the Lord so much I constantly fought the urge to just keep walking, praying, meditating. However, my children would need me to help guide them through the rest of their day and inside I'd go.
Those earlier years of obedience to seeking time with Him have been the foundation on which I've stood during our current times of hardship and suffering. If I'd not had the habit of seeking Him daily and not just at church on Sunday mornings, I can't envision where we'd be right now as a family. I'm reminded of the verse that says the wise man built his house upon the Rock. The storms came and the waves blew in, but the house on the Rock stood firm. Those bedrock building years with young children have catapulted me to going deeper with my Savior. With just 2 remaining children at home who are 11 and 8, I have time to get up in the early mornings with coffee and a devotional book and my Bible. I look forward to this time every morning as it's setting the tone for my day. But it's taken years of diligence to get here. The Christian life is not a sprint, it's a marathon. Endurance is needed. Be encouraged today to get alone with Him. Take your wee children into your lap and share a Truth with them about the Savior. Encourage your middle schooler with how you see God working in their life. Spend a few quiet minutes with Him this morning and allow him to nuture your soul.
Please, leave a comment and tell me how Quiet Times have affected your Walk! I'd love to hear from you.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Fall Madness!
October always finds me running in several different directions and by the end of it, I'm grateful for winter coming. Our family is panting as we near the finish line of another fall baseball and softball season. School has been full of pumpkin patches, art co-op, reading time in the gazeebo, Classical Conversations co-op, weekend family day trips, Cub Scout Den meetings and on and on.
I'm always grateful for winter days spent at home schooling, without the harried schedule of fall sports. I enjoy the baking, stamping, scrapbooking and reading-filled afternoons and evenings.
I'll add some pictures to this later today, but for now here's what's been going on in my home recently.
1. I read a book last weekend called Choosing to See by Mary Beth Chapman. It's a life changing book that all should read. Mary Beth lays out her life of struggle and pain and how the Lord has met her and her growing brood. Reading her book has allowed me to feel, in a new found way, the pain we are experiencing as a family. The new normals that take time to process and understand appear to be a common thread for families in trial. A deeper, new way of looking at and viewing Christ in all of His sufferings has drawn me even closer to Him. I've been singing Steven Curtis Chapman's song You Make All Things New in my head the last 2 days. He redeems and He restores.
2. We did finally take that trip to Harper's Ferry last Monday for Columbus weekend. It was wonderful. We had a great time hiking another section of the C/O Canal, talking with park rangers, eating a late lunch and learning about John Brown. Fascinating!
3. After 5 years of waiting, I finally have a treadmill! Woo Hoo! I've been kicking up my fitness and weight loss efforts here and ran 3.9 miles yesterday. Thankyou Craigslist!
4. I am attempting to get ready to leave on Thursday with 9 other girls for the annual Scrapbooking Retreat to Massanutten! I've printed about 500 pictures and hope to complete 2 albums or at least come close to it. This winter, I want to complete 1 more album I'm designing.
5. Bible Study with some local homeschool Moms a couple of times a month is going great. I really enjoy getting together and encouraging one another in this narrow road of education we feel called to for our kids. They are a great group and I can't wait to see them all tonight.
6. We have orders! Kuwait is a very real thing now!! No turning back once the orders arrive. The preparations will pick up steam around the first of the year. Stay tuned for more updates.
7. In keeping with our Total Money Makeover here, we sold my Ford Edge this month. We can't take it to Kuwait with us and it just seemed silly to continue to make payments on a car we truly don't need. Our debt reduction is now down 50% on the year! If you have financial struggles....just 'do Dave Ramsey' It's so worth it!
8. Adam has been moved to a 3rd facility to continue to work on his mental health issues. The situation is quite grave for us as his parents and John and I would just ask that you continue to pray for us. Thanks!
Time to start school....off to a busy day!
I'm always grateful for winter days spent at home schooling, without the harried schedule of fall sports. I enjoy the baking, stamping, scrapbooking and reading-filled afternoons and evenings.
I'll add some pictures to this later today, but for now here's what's been going on in my home recently.
1. I read a book last weekend called Choosing to See by Mary Beth Chapman. It's a life changing book that all should read. Mary Beth lays out her life of struggle and pain and how the Lord has met her and her growing brood. Reading her book has allowed me to feel, in a new found way, the pain we are experiencing as a family. The new normals that take time to process and understand appear to be a common thread for families in trial. A deeper, new way of looking at and viewing Christ in all of His sufferings has drawn me even closer to Him. I've been singing Steven Curtis Chapman's song You Make All Things New in my head the last 2 days. He redeems and He restores.
2. We did finally take that trip to Harper's Ferry last Monday for Columbus weekend. It was wonderful. We had a great time hiking another section of the C/O Canal, talking with park rangers, eating a late lunch and learning about John Brown. Fascinating!
3. After 5 years of waiting, I finally have a treadmill! Woo Hoo! I've been kicking up my fitness and weight loss efforts here and ran 3.9 miles yesterday. Thankyou Craigslist!
4. I am attempting to get ready to leave on Thursday with 9 other girls for the annual Scrapbooking Retreat to Massanutten! I've printed about 500 pictures and hope to complete 2 albums or at least come close to it. This winter, I want to complete 1 more album I'm designing.
5. Bible Study with some local homeschool Moms a couple of times a month is going great. I really enjoy getting together and encouraging one another in this narrow road of education we feel called to for our kids. They are a great group and I can't wait to see them all tonight.
6. We have orders! Kuwait is a very real thing now!! No turning back once the orders arrive. The preparations will pick up steam around the first of the year. Stay tuned for more updates.
7. In keeping with our Total Money Makeover here, we sold my Ford Edge this month. We can't take it to Kuwait with us and it just seemed silly to continue to make payments on a car we truly don't need. Our debt reduction is now down 50% on the year! If you have financial struggles....just 'do Dave Ramsey' It's so worth it!
8. Adam has been moved to a 3rd facility to continue to work on his mental health issues. The situation is quite grave for us as his parents and John and I would just ask that you continue to pray for us. Thanks!
Time to start school....off to a busy day!
Sunday, October 3, 2010
First Paper Trey Playhouse Challenge
All products are Paper Trey Unless noted below.
Inks: Vintage Cream and Basic Black (SU)
Card Stock: Raspberry Fizz, Ripe Avacado
Felt: White
Twine from SU
Raspberry Fizz button
Stamps: Wreath for All Seasons, Calendar Basics
Dies: Mat Stack number 3, Top Note (SU)
Monday, September 27, 2010
Celebrating Life!
A time to celebrate what we've been doing in life inspite of the obstacles around us.
Below are some pictures of:
First Day of School in jammies with math blocks
First Day of Classical Conversations and giving our family presentation
Recess with new classmates at CC!
Cub Scout Trip to Fort Mc Henry in Baltimore to raise the Flag over the fort. Grandpa Coombs and Cousin David, too!
First BB gun shooting in the back yard with a lesson from Grandpa
First time practicing and playing catcher for this years Kid Pitch team!
Long 4 mile hike on the Maryland side of Great Falls National Park. (Next on the to-do list: Harper's Ferry....this coming Sunday I think....)
So much to celebrate!
enjoy!
Below are some pictures of:
First Day of School in jammies with math blocks
First Day of Classical Conversations and giving our family presentation
Recess with new classmates at CC!
Cub Scout Trip to Fort Mc Henry in Baltimore to raise the Flag over the fort. Grandpa Coombs and Cousin David, too!
First BB gun shooting in the back yard with a lesson from Grandpa
First time practicing and playing catcher for this years Kid Pitch team!
Long 4 mile hike on the Maryland side of Great Falls National Park. (Next on the to-do list: Harper's Ferry....this coming Sunday I think....)
So much to celebrate!
enjoy!
Friday, September 24, 2010
Learning Perspective in the Pit
But to deviate from the truth for sake of some prospect of hope of our own could never be wise, however slight that deviation may be. It is not our judgement of the situation which can show us what is wise, but only the truth of the Word of God. Here alone lies the promise of God's faithfulness and help. It will always be true that the wisest course for the disciple is always to abide solely by the Word of God in all it's simplicity- Dietrich Bonhoeffer
I found the above quote this week in my reading and was surprised to find that it so aptly described our 9 months working with our son's first treatment placement.
Week after week, Friday after Friday John and I would have strategy sessions on the phone or over coffee in the early mornings on how we were going to defend our family's Christian faith, values and the things that make us the Coombs'. There were many times we'd sit in therapy sessions, treatment meetings with probation officers, social workers and listen to the psychologist spew their venom at us.
"Your son is just the scapegoat for all that's going wrong in your family. Come into the 21st Century, live like the rest of us. Try this new way of meditation and mode deactivation. It's better for you. Your father has too much control over your home. It's your parent's fault. Your service in caring for your children is as if you worship them."
Wow the world is a dark, broken place. From the safety of the pit, standing on the Root of Israel for support (Romans 11), we held our ground. It exhausted us week after week, but we held on to the simplicity of Scripture as Bonehoeffer writes. We had 3 healthy children that were healing at home, they were all safe, growing, learning and we held onto eachother as a family should with times so tough. We studied and discussed God's word in our tough times. John's mantra was the verse from Job that says "Though he slay me, yet will I trust Him." Finally, we received a victory! After one particularly grueling session with "Adam's new Mom" as we called his therapist, John and I clasped hands and walked right to the administration building. I can't for the life of me remember what was said to the CEO during that impromptu meeting, but the next week we heard. "Well, I just don't get it, but you guys are a WW II era family living in the 21st century. Your values are Duty, God, Country, Service. You've not changed one bit in the last 7 months and clearly these are your family's values."
Can you shout AMEN?! I looked at the man and replied, "Thankyou, that's the nicest compliment we've ever received." It was then that the treatment facility wanted to discharge our boy, asap. Within 2 months of that meeting, Adam moved to his current location where finally, truth is being revealed into who and what Adam is dealing with inside.
Next Monday, our precious first born son, is moving to a locked down adolescent psychiatric facility rather far away from our home. He's out of touch with reality, lives in a fantasy world where anger controls and drives him. He's very unsafe. It would be so easy for me in my heart of hearts as his mother to grieve in despair at the injustice of it all. But that's not the perspective the last 16 months has given us. God has shown Himself faithful to us. We are all growing and recovering, our boy is getting help, Christ is our Glorious Advocate! The Holy Spirit continues to move us to make phone calls at just the right time for all the red tape to be cut through. We are clinging to the simplicity of His beautiful Word. It brings life to the disciple.
The more I walk this road of mental illness, the more committed I/we become to eachother and the bond that we have as family. The longer the road becomes, the more I/we need Him to hold our hands, carry us through the crags and set us on more even ground. Perspective shows me that the simplicity of Scripture has done just that.
And though this world with devils filled
Should threaten to undo us
We will not fear for Thou has willed
His truth to triumph through us.
The prince of darkness grim,
we tremble not for him;
His rage we can endure,
for lo his doom is sure.
One little word can fell him.
We love you, Jehovah our Provider and Advocate.
I found the above quote this week in my reading and was surprised to find that it so aptly described our 9 months working with our son's first treatment placement.
Week after week, Friday after Friday John and I would have strategy sessions on the phone or over coffee in the early mornings on how we were going to defend our family's Christian faith, values and the things that make us the Coombs'. There were many times we'd sit in therapy sessions, treatment meetings with probation officers, social workers and listen to the psychologist spew their venom at us.
"Your son is just the scapegoat for all that's going wrong in your family. Come into the 21st Century, live like the rest of us. Try this new way of meditation and mode deactivation. It's better for you. Your father has too much control over your home. It's your parent's fault. Your service in caring for your children is as if you worship them."
Wow the world is a dark, broken place. From the safety of the pit, standing on the Root of Israel for support (Romans 11), we held our ground. It exhausted us week after week, but we held on to the simplicity of Scripture as Bonehoeffer writes. We had 3 healthy children that were healing at home, they were all safe, growing, learning and we held onto eachother as a family should with times so tough. We studied and discussed God's word in our tough times. John's mantra was the verse from Job that says "Though he slay me, yet will I trust Him." Finally, we received a victory! After one particularly grueling session with "Adam's new Mom" as we called his therapist, John and I clasped hands and walked right to the administration building. I can't for the life of me remember what was said to the CEO during that impromptu meeting, but the next week we heard. "Well, I just don't get it, but you guys are a WW II era family living in the 21st century. Your values are Duty, God, Country, Service. You've not changed one bit in the last 7 months and clearly these are your family's values."
Can you shout AMEN?! I looked at the man and replied, "Thankyou, that's the nicest compliment we've ever received." It was then that the treatment facility wanted to discharge our boy, asap. Within 2 months of that meeting, Adam moved to his current location where finally, truth is being revealed into who and what Adam is dealing with inside.
Next Monday, our precious first born son, is moving to a locked down adolescent psychiatric facility rather far away from our home. He's out of touch with reality, lives in a fantasy world where anger controls and drives him. He's very unsafe. It would be so easy for me in my heart of hearts as his mother to grieve in despair at the injustice of it all. But that's not the perspective the last 16 months has given us. God has shown Himself faithful to us. We are all growing and recovering, our boy is getting help, Christ is our Glorious Advocate! The Holy Spirit continues to move us to make phone calls at just the right time for all the red tape to be cut through. We are clinging to the simplicity of His beautiful Word. It brings life to the disciple.
The more I walk this road of mental illness, the more committed I/we become to eachother and the bond that we have as family. The longer the road becomes, the more I/we need Him to hold our hands, carry us through the crags and set us on more even ground. Perspective shows me that the simplicity of Scripture has done just that.
And though this world with devils filled
Should threaten to undo us
We will not fear for Thou has willed
His truth to triumph through us.
The prince of darkness grim,
we tremble not for him;
His rage we can endure,
for lo his doom is sure.
One little word can fell him.
We love you, Jehovah our Provider and Advocate.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Living by Faith
Everyone needs compassion, a love that's never failing, let Mercy fall on me. Everyone needs forgiveness, the kindness of a Savior, the Hope of nations. Savior, He can move the mountains, my God is Mighty to Save!
This song has become my theme for the time in the terrible pit. After the initial few weeks were over, we settled into a routine we would keep up for several months. John was home every Friday to manage lawyers, therapy appointments, insurance issues, and social workers.
When the rubble had settled the decision was made by the Commonwealth of Va that I, as the Mom, was to blame for the destruction that occurred in our home. We were left without recourse against the boy and family who'd played truth or dare and assalted our precious boy to begin with.
As my husband and I prayed and prayed over our family and begged Christ to be our advocate in a juvenille system we didn't understand, God was at work and using other people to meet immediate needs. He was clearly being our Advocate! Yet at the time I just couldn't see it through the pain.
A precious family that I met in our local crafting circle was all to familiar with what we were going through. They have been there for us through everything, counseled, prayed, crafted with me through tears, held my hand, signed me up for Bible Studies, explained the new-to-us sex offender lingo and on and on. They have become some of our sweetest friends over the course of the last 15 months.
Another angel God used was actually a group of women from Ft. Lee, Va PWOC. Cheri called and said "Wanna go to Women of Faith? I've got a spot for you and it's on me/PWOC." Best decision I ever made: I WENT! What a breath of fresh air to my heavy laden spirit and body. A girlfriend I could talk to about old times in Italy, new directions for Sr. leaders in the Army we both knew as well as our own children and circumstances. The talks and music were God inspired and I came away from that weekend with my first bit of strength in many, many weeks. Before leaving the conference, I purchased several CDs of inspirational music for my car. I would listen to them each time I drove to and from seeing our son. I'd cry, pray and praise and remember God's promises to His people on each trip.
It was about this time that God began to give me a real heart for hurting Moms and the burdens we each share. Coming out of jails, treatment facilities, courtrooms I'd continually see tears, Bibles, and clasped hands in prayer. I hugged them. We'd chat a bit in our tears and hold eachother up as best as we could. Some moms I only saw once or twice before their child was transfered, some I got to know a bit better.
Christ was and continues to be our Advocate. He continued to block the flaming darts of the Enemy while we were searching for the way out of the pit. Charges against me were dismissed as quickly as they were brought up. I remember coming home and crawling into bed after being in Court that day. It was all I could do. I laid there thinking how many other Mothers are out there hurt like this? How can I reach them, Lord? What would you have me to do if I could?
That's when it was time to go back to Hebrews and read about the heros of the Faith. It was time to fall flat on my face before the Lord and pray for directions, restoration and healing. Now Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
By faith we are believing and walking the above verse from Hebrews. We cannot see it at this time, but I no longer doubt (and I did in the beginning!!!) that God will receive Glory for the things we are experiencing right now. By faith I believe in the restoration of Job and his wife and family. By faith I believe; My God is Mighty to Save.
This song has become my theme for the time in the terrible pit. After the initial few weeks were over, we settled into a routine we would keep up for several months. John was home every Friday to manage lawyers, therapy appointments, insurance issues, and social workers.
When the rubble had settled the decision was made by the Commonwealth of Va that I, as the Mom, was to blame for the destruction that occurred in our home. We were left without recourse against the boy and family who'd played truth or dare and assalted our precious boy to begin with.
As my husband and I prayed and prayed over our family and begged Christ to be our advocate in a juvenille system we didn't understand, God was at work and using other people to meet immediate needs. He was clearly being our Advocate! Yet at the time I just couldn't see it through the pain.
A precious family that I met in our local crafting circle was all to familiar with what we were going through. They have been there for us through everything, counseled, prayed, crafted with me through tears, held my hand, signed me up for Bible Studies, explained the new-to-us sex offender lingo and on and on. They have become some of our sweetest friends over the course of the last 15 months.
Another angel God used was actually a group of women from Ft. Lee, Va PWOC. Cheri called and said "Wanna go to Women of Faith? I've got a spot for you and it's on me/PWOC." Best decision I ever made: I WENT! What a breath of fresh air to my heavy laden spirit and body. A girlfriend I could talk to about old times in Italy, new directions for Sr. leaders in the Army we both knew as well as our own children and circumstances. The talks and music were God inspired and I came away from that weekend with my first bit of strength in many, many weeks. Before leaving the conference, I purchased several CDs of inspirational music for my car. I would listen to them each time I drove to and from seeing our son. I'd cry, pray and praise and remember God's promises to His people on each trip.
It was about this time that God began to give me a real heart for hurting Moms and the burdens we each share. Coming out of jails, treatment facilities, courtrooms I'd continually see tears, Bibles, and clasped hands in prayer. I hugged them. We'd chat a bit in our tears and hold eachother up as best as we could. Some moms I only saw once or twice before their child was transfered, some I got to know a bit better.
Christ was and continues to be our Advocate. He continued to block the flaming darts of the Enemy while we were searching for the way out of the pit. Charges against me were dismissed as quickly as they were brought up. I remember coming home and crawling into bed after being in Court that day. It was all I could do. I laid there thinking how many other Mothers are out there hurt like this? How can I reach them, Lord? What would you have me to do if I could?
That's when it was time to go back to Hebrews and read about the heros of the Faith. It was time to fall flat on my face before the Lord and pray for directions, restoration and healing. Now Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
By faith we are believing and walking the above verse from Hebrews. We cannot see it at this time, but I no longer doubt (and I did in the beginning!!!) that God will receive Glory for the things we are experiencing right now. By faith I believe in the restoration of Job and his wife and family. By faith I believe; My God is Mighty to Save.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Light in the Darkness
I know, the title is so cliche; isn't it? But now looking back over the last 15 months of our lives I can see that there was Light in the deep pit of our darkness.
Our darkness is named Sexual Abuse. It's filthy and disgusting and brings me to tears just to type it. All of us have been affected by it. At the end of the long fall into the darkness we had one child in juvenille detention and all of us in desperate need of help.
I've often identified with the prophet Elijah in my Walk with the Lord.
1 Kings 17:3-5 Get away from here and trun eastward, and hide by the Brook Cherith, which flows into the Jordan. And it will be that you shall drink from the brook, and I have commanded the ravens to feed you there. So he went and did according to the word of the LORD.
After our horrifying day and night with the local authorities I found myself sitting in my chair, numb and pondering the ravens our family needed. After all, the darkness was deep, dank and the path out that we could barely see at the time was narrow. We needed comfort, compassion, food and water. Yet, at the time, we had no home church and no real support around us.
Even given all of those circumstances, God's ravens (I now call them our angels) were coming. They were our Light in the Darkness.
The first Raven: Friends from Europe who live not far away from us now answered the phone, left church services, jumped in the car and got here to take our sweet little guy home with them for his protection. This family chatted, texted and prayed for us every day those first few horrible days when pain was so fresh.
The next Raven: homeschooling, email friends from many years ago brought us food. A huge pot of chicken soup with little oyster crackers and a salad was food for us when we could barely hold anything down. I remember Heidi coming to the house that day, looking and me, hearing our story and crying with me. What a testimony of the Savior. What tenderness she gave us. Heidi was also a provider of HELP that we needed. A good Christian Counselor and phone number to call for help.
The final Raven that was needed to prepare us for the journey ahead was my parents. It took 48 hrs for them to walk through my front door from Florida. That's when I fell on the floor, literally. There's something about a girl's Dad that just allows her to go to pieces. Grandma Pam cooked, baked, dried my tears, made coffee, cleaned up messes and ironed my son's shirt for Court. They watched the kids while we had appointments with lawyers, doctors, insurance companies, CPS social workers and police officers.
The inital few weeks passed and although very unstable on our feeble legs, we were being nourished and prepared for the long road ahead of us. I am so grateful to those that were our Light in the Darkness. Thankyou for responding to the Lord's call to provide and care for us.
Our darkness is named Sexual Abuse. It's filthy and disgusting and brings me to tears just to type it. All of us have been affected by it. At the end of the long fall into the darkness we had one child in juvenille detention and all of us in desperate need of help.
I've often identified with the prophet Elijah in my Walk with the Lord.
1 Kings 17:3-5 Get away from here and trun eastward, and hide by the Brook Cherith, which flows into the Jordan. And it will be that you shall drink from the brook, and I have commanded the ravens to feed you there. So he went and did according to the word of the LORD.
After our horrifying day and night with the local authorities I found myself sitting in my chair, numb and pondering the ravens our family needed. After all, the darkness was deep, dank and the path out that we could barely see at the time was narrow. We needed comfort, compassion, food and water. Yet, at the time, we had no home church and no real support around us.
Even given all of those circumstances, God's ravens (I now call them our angels) were coming. They were our Light in the Darkness.
The first Raven: Friends from Europe who live not far away from us now answered the phone, left church services, jumped in the car and got here to take our sweet little guy home with them for his protection. This family chatted, texted and prayed for us every day those first few horrible days when pain was so fresh.
The next Raven: homeschooling, email friends from many years ago brought us food. A huge pot of chicken soup with little oyster crackers and a salad was food for us when we could barely hold anything down. I remember Heidi coming to the house that day, looking and me, hearing our story and crying with me. What a testimony of the Savior. What tenderness she gave us. Heidi was also a provider of HELP that we needed. A good Christian Counselor and phone number to call for help.
The final Raven that was needed to prepare us for the journey ahead was my parents. It took 48 hrs for them to walk through my front door from Florida. That's when I fell on the floor, literally. There's something about a girl's Dad that just allows her to go to pieces. Grandma Pam cooked, baked, dried my tears, made coffee, cleaned up messes and ironed my son's shirt for Court. They watched the kids while we had appointments with lawyers, doctors, insurance companies, CPS social workers and police officers.
The inital few weeks passed and although very unstable on our feeble legs, we were being nourished and prepared for the long road ahead of us. I am so grateful to those that were our Light in the Darkness. Thankyou for responding to the Lord's call to provide and care for us.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
In My Home Recently
I can't believe so much time has gone by since I've updated my blog. There's been a ton happening and I've highlighted a few things in the pictures below.
Here are a few things that have been happening in our home.
1. John took the girls on a date to D.C. to walk the Mall and see all the monuments. Lyndsay hadn't had a chance to see them all yet. They had a great day and finished up with pizza at our family's recently discovered place near John's office. We all love the Italian Style Brick Oven pizzas. I hear they enjoyed themselves!!
2. I found a butterfly chair perfect for Emily's room at a Consignment sale. Emily wanted a little table for it to hold a drink and popcorn while she watches movies in her room at night. John obliged and they both spent a Saturday making a cute little table for her. Emily did some sawing, nailing, painting and even added the butterfly decals. Great job, Emily!
3. Jesse is always around the BBQ grill with John and has learned to take whatever we have going off the grill. Yes, my heart beats several extra times as this is occuring, but he's growing up. The picture below is of Jman pulling off chicken wings. Yummy!!
4. Lyndsay has left for college and I nearly sobbed buckets. The house is so lonely without her. We are having a hard time adjusting around here to the new level of quiet after having our Sister for 4 months. She's doing great as a Jr. at Olivet and is very excited about FINALLY hitting the nursing books.
5. I've been working out like a mad woman around here. I'm in a 10,000 step a day challenge with a few other gals on line. I've started taking early morning walks and am doing great. I've hit my weight milestone this week! I celebrated with a Mocha Frappuccino Light from Starbucks today.
6. Our school year is off to a great start. The kids are doing well at home and happy with their new materials. Classical Conversations is going very well. My Co-op kids are great. I'm so glad I signed up to Tutor. I don't think I could handle just sitting in the room as a parent the whole time. We are learning all of our Basic Grammar in History, Science, English Grammar, Math Skip Counting, Latin Conjugations and on and on.
7. I've discovered a new company for Stamp and Scrapbooking supplies: Paper Trey Ink. Go check them out. I'm enjoying their forums, gallery and products tremendously. I'm currently working on a stamp project to give John on his upcoming birthday using Paper Trey Stamps.
8. I've found a Torah Observant Ministry I really, really like. Jim Stanley at Passion for Truth Ministries. I'm listening to his series on the Commandments right now. It's an 8 part series that can be found on his website.
I have a new essay I'm brain storming as well as a talk I'm preparing to give. Please keep our family in your prayers as we seek to serve Him and learn more about Hebraic Roots. The Fall Feasts are coming up! Please check out my girlfriend Stephanie's blog on the right. She's just written a beautiful essay on her family and their Torah Observant life.
Enjoy the pictures.
Here are a few things that have been happening in our home.
1. John took the girls on a date to D.C. to walk the Mall and see all the monuments. Lyndsay hadn't had a chance to see them all yet. They had a great day and finished up with pizza at our family's recently discovered place near John's office. We all love the Italian Style Brick Oven pizzas. I hear they enjoyed themselves!!
2. I found a butterfly chair perfect for Emily's room at a Consignment sale. Emily wanted a little table for it to hold a drink and popcorn while she watches movies in her room at night. John obliged and they both spent a Saturday making a cute little table for her. Emily did some sawing, nailing, painting and even added the butterfly decals. Great job, Emily!
3. Jesse is always around the BBQ grill with John and has learned to take whatever we have going off the grill. Yes, my heart beats several extra times as this is occuring, but he's growing up. The picture below is of Jman pulling off chicken wings. Yummy!!
4. Lyndsay has left for college and I nearly sobbed buckets. The house is so lonely without her. We are having a hard time adjusting around here to the new level of quiet after having our Sister for 4 months. She's doing great as a Jr. at Olivet and is very excited about FINALLY hitting the nursing books.
5. I've been working out like a mad woman around here. I'm in a 10,000 step a day challenge with a few other gals on line. I've started taking early morning walks and am doing great. I've hit my weight milestone this week! I celebrated with a Mocha Frappuccino Light from Starbucks today.
6. Our school year is off to a great start. The kids are doing well at home and happy with their new materials. Classical Conversations is going very well. My Co-op kids are great. I'm so glad I signed up to Tutor. I don't think I could handle just sitting in the room as a parent the whole time. We are learning all of our Basic Grammar in History, Science, English Grammar, Math Skip Counting, Latin Conjugations and on and on.
7. I've discovered a new company for Stamp and Scrapbooking supplies: Paper Trey Ink. Go check them out. I'm enjoying their forums, gallery and products tremendously. I'm currently working on a stamp project to give John on his upcoming birthday using Paper Trey Stamps.
8. I've found a Torah Observant Ministry I really, really like. Jim Stanley at Passion for Truth Ministries. I'm listening to his series on the Commandments right now. It's an 8 part series that can be found on his website.
I have a new essay I'm brain storming as well as a talk I'm preparing to give. Please keep our family in your prayers as we seek to serve Him and learn more about Hebraic Roots. The Fall Feasts are coming up! Please check out my girlfriend Stephanie's blog on the right. She's just written a beautiful essay on her family and their Torah Observant life.
Enjoy the pictures.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Poignant: Deeply Affecting
"Jean! Why didn't you take the candle sticks as I told you?" the aging Cardinal replied to the bound-in-chains convict.
I sat in a room-full of beautiful women and experienced a poignant talk on Servant leadership given by Paul Stanley. Mr. Stanley, former leader of the Navigators, used the famous scene from Les Miserables to bring home a powerful concept: Our things aren't really ours.
I'd had the pleasure of taking in "Les Mis" on the West End theatre disctrict in London 5 years ago. The setting is France just prior to the Revolution. The French seek liberation from a cruel, unfeeling King. I witnessed the above exchange from my high balcony seat and was stunned at the generosity of the cardinal and thought no more of it until 2 weeks ago sitting in Mr. Stanley's talk.
Suddenly, in a room full of servant-leader-seeking moms the impact of the Cardinal's actions toward Jean Valjean, a common thief, struck a chord in my heart.
Jean stole from the Cardinal the night before after seeking refuge and having it given to him. A full belly, a warm bed graciously given by the Cardinal was returned with Jean waking in the night and stealing the silver. Jean, found later the next morning, is returned to the Cardinal by the Police, who seek to press charges. The Cardinal quickly replies that Jean forgot the rest of the silver set, gets it for him and sends him on his way with genuine relief, not regret.
The Cardinal clearly understands that the 'things' he may own aren't really his. They belong to the Lord, to be used as He sees fit and to further His Kingdom.
What a precious, poignant picture of Christ's love.
I've been turning the idea of such servant leadership over and over in my mind. Can I currently say, at this moment, that everything we have in our home belongs to the Lord? Am I, are WE, willing and even DESIROUS to part with our talents, gifts, prayers, sleep, or in my case my beloved pottery and china collection?
I continue to seek the Holy Spirit and ask Him to reveal anything in my/our life that need to be given over to Him completely, for His use. I'm certain there's more to be written on this in the days to come....
I sat in a room-full of beautiful women and experienced a poignant talk on Servant leadership given by Paul Stanley. Mr. Stanley, former leader of the Navigators, used the famous scene from Les Miserables to bring home a powerful concept: Our things aren't really ours.
I'd had the pleasure of taking in "Les Mis" on the West End theatre disctrict in London 5 years ago. The setting is France just prior to the Revolution. The French seek liberation from a cruel, unfeeling King. I witnessed the above exchange from my high balcony seat and was stunned at the generosity of the cardinal and thought no more of it until 2 weeks ago sitting in Mr. Stanley's talk.
Suddenly, in a room full of servant-leader-seeking moms the impact of the Cardinal's actions toward Jean Valjean, a common thief, struck a chord in my heart.
Jean stole from the Cardinal the night before after seeking refuge and having it given to him. A full belly, a warm bed graciously given by the Cardinal was returned with Jean waking in the night and stealing the silver. Jean, found later the next morning, is returned to the Cardinal by the Police, who seek to press charges. The Cardinal quickly replies that Jean forgot the rest of the silver set, gets it for him and sends him on his way with genuine relief, not regret.
The Cardinal clearly understands that the 'things' he may own aren't really his. They belong to the Lord, to be used as He sees fit and to further His Kingdom.
What a precious, poignant picture of Christ's love.
I've been turning the idea of such servant leadership over and over in my mind. Can I currently say, at this moment, that everything we have in our home belongs to the Lord? Am I, are WE, willing and even DESIROUS to part with our talents, gifts, prayers, sleep, or in my case my beloved pottery and china collection?
I continue to seek the Holy Spirit and ask Him to reveal anything in my/our life that need to be given over to Him completely, for His use. I'm certain there's more to be written on this in the days to come....
Friday, August 13, 2010
Lyndsay's Famous Peppermint (Candy Cane) Biscotti
3 and 1/2 Cups of All Purpose Flour
1 t baking powder
1/2 t salt
1 Cup sugar (splenda works, too!)
1 stick softened butter (1/2 C)
2 T water
1 t peppermint extract
2 large eggs
1 C finely crushed peppermint candy divided
1/2 C slivered almonds-toasted (Lyn never toasts them)
4 squares of white chocolate or white chocolate morsels melted over double boiler
1. Pre heat oven to 350 degrees and line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper. Toast Almonds if desired. Combine all dry ingredients.
2. Beat sugar, butter, water, peppermint extract and eggs in a large bowl with electric mixer until well blended. All flour mixture and 1/2 C crushed candies and almonds. Beat until blended.
3. Divide dough in 1/2. Shape each half into a 10" by 3" log. Place each on a perpared cookie sheet. Bake 30 minutes or until center is firm to the touch. Let cool 15 to 20 minutes.
4. Using a serrated knife, cut logs diagnolly into half inch slices. Bake 7 minutes on each side for softer biscotti or up to 12 minutes per side for harder biscotti. Edges will be browned all around.
5. Dip each cookie halfway into melted white chocolate then dip in remaining candies to coat the chocolated end. Allow to dry. Store in a tightly covered container.
ENJOY!
1 t baking powder
1/2 t salt
1 Cup sugar (splenda works, too!)
1 stick softened butter (1/2 C)
2 T water
1 t peppermint extract
2 large eggs
1 C finely crushed peppermint candy divided
1/2 C slivered almonds-toasted (Lyn never toasts them)
4 squares of white chocolate or white chocolate morsels melted over double boiler
1. Pre heat oven to 350 degrees and line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper. Toast Almonds if desired. Combine all dry ingredients.
2. Beat sugar, butter, water, peppermint extract and eggs in a large bowl with electric mixer until well blended. All flour mixture and 1/2 C crushed candies and almonds. Beat until blended.
3. Divide dough in 1/2. Shape each half into a 10" by 3" log. Place each on a perpared cookie sheet. Bake 30 minutes or until center is firm to the touch. Let cool 15 to 20 minutes.
4. Using a serrated knife, cut logs diagnolly into half inch slices. Bake 7 minutes on each side for softer biscotti or up to 12 minutes per side for harder biscotti. Edges will be browned all around.
5. Dip each cookie halfway into melted white chocolate then dip in remaining candies to coat the chocolated end. Allow to dry. Store in a tightly covered container.
ENJOY!
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Courage
Last week found me on the ball fields with my children. Emily and Jman had games at the same time on neighboring fields that required Lyndsay and I to divide the Coombs' cheer squad. Technology is wonderful during these times as we frantically text back and forth the plays on the field and how our Clan is fairing. One text I received from Lyndsay stated, "She's pitching!" I couldn't believe it. My amazing Emily was up on the mound, showing great courage and pitching her first softball game. I immediately jumped up and looked over at the field, one eye on Jesse and the other scanning for Emily. There she was! Fearless and pitching her heart out! I felt our family's life verse come to my mind "Be Strong and Courageous do not be terrified do not be discouraged for the Lord, your God is with you where ever you go." Joshua 1:9
As I sat back down; that verse stayed in my soul for a few minutes. I missed a few plays on both fields while chewing on the idea of courage. How many times do we need to summon every ounce of courage that we can muster to move forward in our Walk with the Lord? My kids and I have tagged along this nutty, busy, thrilling and at times, sorrowful, military career of John's. It has required great amounts of courage on our part to pack up and move 12 times in 20 years including 3 international moves. Courage was needed to meet new friends, find new churches to attend, new homeschool groups to join, doctors to see, cars to repair and finances to reshuffle with ever changing cost of living rates.
How many times I've simply wanted to stay in bed and not face the demands of the day! Yet, as mothers of children to train, we can't allow ourselves to be held hostage by the 'what ifs' each day could hold. We may not feel like pitching that day or being part of a team during trying circumstances of life. However, we must grab hold of our Bibles and take a few minutes to draw our broods in close for some courage summoning time.
My current Bible Study is leading me through the Patriarchs. I've been struck by Sarai, Abram's wife. Abram was called to leave Ur and go…”to a land that I will show you.” (Genesis 12:1) Sarai, in obedience to her husband, left her home in Ur, taking her aging father in law, nephew and household along. Can you imagine the courage it took to stay in the seat of that camel with the skyline of your home fading with every step? She didn't know for sure where she was going. There was no way for her to know just how long this was going to go on or where her new home would be! Would she know the language when she got there? Think about it. Let's not spiritualize our ancestors too much. Consider, they were just people, called by God. Sarai's great courage to follow her husband, to eventually become the Matriarch of Nations again etched Josh 1:9 on my soul.
The rest of the ball game I don't remember except my beautiful girl had a great time and played well. What a thrill it is to watch her grow and try new things. I believe it's time to show her a few verses in Genesis about a woman who was also called up to play an important role involving courage, Sarai.
As I sat back down; that verse stayed in my soul for a few minutes. I missed a few plays on both fields while chewing on the idea of courage. How many times do we need to summon every ounce of courage that we can muster to move forward in our Walk with the Lord? My kids and I have tagged along this nutty, busy, thrilling and at times, sorrowful, military career of John's. It has required great amounts of courage on our part to pack up and move 12 times in 20 years including 3 international moves. Courage was needed to meet new friends, find new churches to attend, new homeschool groups to join, doctors to see, cars to repair and finances to reshuffle with ever changing cost of living rates.
How many times I've simply wanted to stay in bed and not face the demands of the day! Yet, as mothers of children to train, we can't allow ourselves to be held hostage by the 'what ifs' each day could hold. We may not feel like pitching that day or being part of a team during trying circumstances of life. However, we must grab hold of our Bibles and take a few minutes to draw our broods in close for some courage summoning time.
My current Bible Study is leading me through the Patriarchs. I've been struck by Sarai, Abram's wife. Abram was called to leave Ur and go…”to a land that I will show you.” (Genesis 12:1) Sarai, in obedience to her husband, left her home in Ur, taking her aging father in law, nephew and household along. Can you imagine the courage it took to stay in the seat of that camel with the skyline of your home fading with every step? She didn't know for sure where she was going. There was no way for her to know just how long this was going to go on or where her new home would be! Would she know the language when she got there? Think about it. Let's not spiritualize our ancestors too much. Consider, they were just people, called by God. Sarai's great courage to follow her husband, to eventually become the Matriarch of Nations again etched Josh 1:9 on my soul.
The rest of the ball game I don't remember except my beautiful girl had a great time and played well. What a thrill it is to watch her grow and try new things. I believe it's time to show her a few verses in Genesis about a woman who was also called up to play an important role involving courage, Sarai.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
In My Home Recently
It's busy times in our household right now. School, ministry, Cub Scouts, Classical Conversations as well as our move next year are the topics of our discussions. I'm leaving for a weekend intensive of ministry planning on Thursday. Please be praying for me as I go and my family back here holding down the fort. Here's what's been happening in my home recently.
1. I've started reading More Love to Thee, The Life and Letters of Elizabeth Prentiss. I've barely scratched the surface on all the Biblical nuggets contained in this book. I found a wonderful quote in the Preface that spoke to my heart. "Much of my experience of life has cost me a great price and I wish to use it for strengthening and comforting other souls."
Oh, that my hands, words, and actions would comfort others for Him. That's my hearts cry for this coming school year.
2. We are continuing our studies in the Old Testament and moving from a Greek mindset to a Hebraic mindset. John is reading through Our Father Abraham and we are discussing it. Most Sabbath mornings we are listening to an exegisis on the book of Galations that can be found at www.graftedin.com/morelessons. Ariel's teaching is wonderful. I feel just like I'm in a Sunday School class. Even if you don't agree with the perspective, the maturing Believer will learn from this straight forward teaching.
3. So much to read, so little time!! I've also started reading The Core by Leigh Bortins. This year we're starting with Classical Conversations as the spine for our home studies. Visit www.classicalconversations. com for more information on this wonderful program. I believe the auditory learning with hands on activities and the challenge of the children's peers will grow them in memorization of basic facts. I'm feeling a deep pull to ground the children in Truth before we move to the Middle East. A classical education is a great way to instill those Core values.
4. The children are reading for an hour each day while I exercise. They had been balking about it. "AN HOUR! Come on, MOM!" Little do they know how their reading is improving this summer. They are doing a great job.
5. Jman bought a set of walkie talkies that we are using to communicate with as he travels about the neighborhood from friend to friend. Yes, it's a bit nerve racking with all the 'checking in' he does. But hey, he's 8! All to soon he will be 9. I loving every minute of our radio communications.
6. Meal preparation is on my list of things that need more of my attention. I took a fist-full of coupons and menus and headed to the Commissary on Saturday. We have 4 meals of Beef Stroganoff made and seasoned chili starters in the freezer. Today I'll whip up 2 meatloaves for the freezer and we'll continue to enjoy last night's large batch of chili with a salad and fresh fruit.
7. We are out of fresh bread and I'll need to get some wheat ground today and my handy bread maker going!
8. While on post on Saturday someone noticed that my safety sticker expired and left me a note on my windshield! I didn't know I had a safety sticker. I'll need to try and squeeze a trip into the shop.
9. Have you discovered Kohls yet? It's a new find for me. Nearly 4 years back in the USA and I feel that I'm just settling into the ways of living in America again. (Still don't like the food here, tho!) Well, I decided to spend this month's clothing allowance on ME! I had a blast at Kohls yesterday! I picked up 6 new tops and 2 pairs of capri pants and saved 55% off the sticker price or better! I'll feel pretty on my trip this week in some new clothes. (And in a new size to boot!)
I guess that about wraps things up for now. I'll be back next week with my head swimming with ideas for ministry to Moms! Have a great week. Leave a comment! Let me know how things are going with your Walk and how I can be praying for each of you!
" Fortunately for us, our faith does not entitle us to heaven anymore than our stupidity shuts us out of it; when we get there it will be through Him who loved us." Elizabeth Prentiss.
Keep Growing in Him girls! Learn His ways! Keep His commandments.
Love and Shalom,
Kellie
1. I've started reading More Love to Thee, The Life and Letters of Elizabeth Prentiss. I've barely scratched the surface on all the Biblical nuggets contained in this book. I found a wonderful quote in the Preface that spoke to my heart. "Much of my experience of life has cost me a great price and I wish to use it for strengthening and comforting other souls."
Oh, that my hands, words, and actions would comfort others for Him. That's my hearts cry for this coming school year.
2. We are continuing our studies in the Old Testament and moving from a Greek mindset to a Hebraic mindset. John is reading through Our Father Abraham and we are discussing it. Most Sabbath mornings we are listening to an exegisis on the book of Galations that can be found at www.graftedin.com/morelessons. Ariel's teaching is wonderful. I feel just like I'm in a Sunday School class. Even if you don't agree with the perspective, the maturing Believer will learn from this straight forward teaching.
3. So much to read, so little time!! I've also started reading The Core by Leigh Bortins. This year we're starting with Classical Conversations as the spine for our home studies. Visit www.classicalconversations. com for more information on this wonderful program. I believe the auditory learning with hands on activities and the challenge of the children's peers will grow them in memorization of basic facts. I'm feeling a deep pull to ground the children in Truth before we move to the Middle East. A classical education is a great way to instill those Core values.
4. The children are reading for an hour each day while I exercise. They had been balking about it. "AN HOUR! Come on, MOM!" Little do they know how their reading is improving this summer. They are doing a great job.
5. Jman bought a set of walkie talkies that we are using to communicate with as he travels about the neighborhood from friend to friend. Yes, it's a bit nerve racking with all the 'checking in' he does. But hey, he's 8! All to soon he will be 9. I loving every minute of our radio communications.
6. Meal preparation is on my list of things that need more of my attention. I took a fist-full of coupons and menus and headed to the Commissary on Saturday. We have 4 meals of Beef Stroganoff made and seasoned chili starters in the freezer. Today I'll whip up 2 meatloaves for the freezer and we'll continue to enjoy last night's large batch of chili with a salad and fresh fruit.
7. We are out of fresh bread and I'll need to get some wheat ground today and my handy bread maker going!
8. While on post on Saturday someone noticed that my safety sticker expired and left me a note on my windshield! I didn't know I had a safety sticker. I'll need to try and squeeze a trip into the shop.
9. Have you discovered Kohls yet? It's a new find for me. Nearly 4 years back in the USA and I feel that I'm just settling into the ways of living in America again. (Still don't like the food here, tho!) Well, I decided to spend this month's clothing allowance on ME! I had a blast at Kohls yesterday! I picked up 6 new tops and 2 pairs of capri pants and saved 55% off the sticker price or better! I'll feel pretty on my trip this week in some new clothes. (And in a new size to boot!)
I guess that about wraps things up for now. I'll be back next week with my head swimming with ideas for ministry to Moms! Have a great week. Leave a comment! Let me know how things are going with your Walk and how I can be praying for each of you!
" Fortunately for us, our faith does not entitle us to heaven anymore than our stupidity shuts us out of it; when we get there it will be through Him who loved us." Elizabeth Prentiss.
Keep Growing in Him girls! Learn His ways! Keep His commandments.
Love and Shalom,
Kellie
Monday, July 26, 2010
Scouting on the Mall! The Grand Centennial Parade!
What a Sunday we had around here! John and Jesse headed into DC and marched in the BSA Grand Centennial Parade along with 10,000 other scouts, floats, balloons and the CLASSIC CARS. I wasn't able to go and the girls decided to stay here and make an amazing yummy dessert for the boys to come home to. Paula Dean Pound Cake with fresh cherries and strawberries. I'm told it was yummy. A big thanks to the gbattery for snapping a few along the parade route for me. I am so grateful for Scouting and all that it's provided for my sons over the last 10 years. We've only missed 1 year in scouting out of the last 10 the boys have been eligible. Adam became a Tiger on the beaches of Monterey, Ca and crossed over to Boy Scouting on the Beaches of Normandy in France. Campouts, cookouts, merit badges, time with Grandpa Coombs and Dad on numerous overnights and hikes are wonderful parts of his childhood years. Now Jman has scout camps for 2 years, 3 years with the same den, wreath laying on Washington's Tomb at Mt. Vernon, Dad as his Den leader, and a march on Washington celebrating 100 years of Scouting all under his belt. (along with MANY belt loops I might add!) I wonder what Scouting in Kuwait will look like?! Enjoy the slide show. I am so very proud of my hubby and son!
Monday, July 19, 2010
More Stepping....
Yesterday afternoon by the pool with my husband and children, I pulled out my Stepping Heavenward book and began to read. It's my hope to finish it today. I was caught off guard by words written in precious Katy's journal as it related to the death of her young son.
In the beginning weeks of our cave in last year I'd stumbled (not by accident) across a passage in Psalms 39. Psalm 39:8-9 reads; Deliver me from all my transgressions; Do not make me the reproach of the foolish. I was mute (silent, unable to speak), I did not open my mouth, Because it was You who did it.
This is the passage from Katy's journal I read yesterday : page 282 top "My dear Ernest has felt this sorrow to his heart's core. But he has not for one moment questioned the goodness or the love of our Father in thus taking from us the child who promised to be our greatest earthly joy. Our consent to God's will has drawn us together very closely; together we bear the yoke in our youth, together we pray and sing praises in the very midst of our tears. I was dumb with silence, because Thou didst it. (Ps 39:9)"
I just couldn't believe how honoring Katy's journal was towards her earthly husband and her heavenly Father. I also found myself so very grateful for the same kind of earthly husband as Katy had in her dear Ernest. John and I have cried, prayed and searched the scriptures and council of many as we've walked this cave in and subsequent rebuilding efforts.
Once again, in this set of circumstances, we are seeking God's leading because we are silenced. Circumstances appear very grave for our son right now. We also, in order to continue to rebuild our home may be forced into some of the hardest decisions we've ever had to make. I am so grateful for people in our lives who have loved us and prayed for us. Would you continue to do so?
As illness continued to plague Katy after her son's death, she found solace in her Bible and quiet time with the Lord which was quite extensive in her sick room. Katy continues to write of her charcter formations during such trials. It gives me such hope to know that in the midst of our most difficult times, God is shaping us, using us for His Kingdom and purposes. I'll close this up with Ps 39:12 Hear my prayer O Lord, And give ear to my cry; Do not be silent at my tears, for I am not a stranger to You....
In the beginning weeks of our cave in last year I'd stumbled (not by accident) across a passage in Psalms 39. Psalm 39:8-9 reads; Deliver me from all my transgressions; Do not make me the reproach of the foolish. I was mute (silent, unable to speak), I did not open my mouth, Because it was You who did it.
This is the passage from Katy's journal I read yesterday : page 282 top "My dear Ernest has felt this sorrow to his heart's core. But he has not for one moment questioned the goodness or the love of our Father in thus taking from us the child who promised to be our greatest earthly joy. Our consent to God's will has drawn us together very closely; together we bear the yoke in our youth, together we pray and sing praises in the very midst of our tears. I was dumb with silence, because Thou didst it. (Ps 39:9)"
I just couldn't believe how honoring Katy's journal was towards her earthly husband and her heavenly Father. I also found myself so very grateful for the same kind of earthly husband as Katy had in her dear Ernest. John and I have cried, prayed and searched the scriptures and council of many as we've walked this cave in and subsequent rebuilding efforts.
Once again, in this set of circumstances, we are seeking God's leading because we are silenced. Circumstances appear very grave for our son right now. We also, in order to continue to rebuild our home may be forced into some of the hardest decisions we've ever had to make. I am so grateful for people in our lives who have loved us and prayed for us. Would you continue to do so?
As illness continued to plague Katy after her son's death, she found solace in her Bible and quiet time with the Lord which was quite extensive in her sick room. Katy continues to write of her charcter formations during such trials. It gives me such hope to know that in the midst of our most difficult times, God is shaping us, using us for His Kingdom and purposes. I'll close this up with Ps 39:12 Hear my prayer O Lord, And give ear to my cry; Do not be silent at my tears, for I am not a stranger to You....
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Let No Pagan Judge You 1/3
This is a wonderful Video Series from Michael Rood. I'm posting it here for John's ease in finding it while TDY this weekend.
Please click, view, and always seek the Lord for your family and personal Walk with Him!
Shalom
Please click, view, and always seek the Lord for your family and personal Walk with Him!
Shalom
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Stepping....yet again.
This time of year, if we've taken a summer break from our schooling, I find that it's time to get out the planner and begin planning. Each year, for the past 16, I've looked at the needs of our family, where our children are at academically and taken time to pray and plan for the upcoming school year.
About 2 years into our homeschooling journey I discovered an amazing book at a local homeschool conference called Stepping Heavenward. The story is a life journal of a woman beginning on her 16th birthday. I found it fascinating to read and watch the main character, Katy, grow and develop into a Godly woman, wife and mother.
While planning for my children's education and taking stock of them one year, I found myself asking "What about you, Kel? How have you grown? What areas do you need to work on this coming year?" I was stumped. Then Stepping Heavenward entered my mind and I stopped my planning and began reading. It's been a routine I've visited for many years now. I began my lesson planning today and stopped after a few hours to revisit my book.
The Words on page 100 struck me and I believe I'll be pondering and praying over them. Please enjoy them for yourself as well. Then get the book and read it for yourself! You'll be glad you did.
page 100, pieces of a letter written to Katy from her minister, Dr. Cabot, around her 20th birthday.
....."It has been said that a fixed, inflexible will is a great assistance in a holy life. You can will to choose for your associates those who are most devout and holy. You can will to read books that will stimulate you in your Christian life, rather than those that merely amuse. You can will to use every means of grace appointed by God. You can will to prefer a religion of principal to one of mere feeling; in other words, to obey the will of God when no comfortable glow of emotion accompanies your obedience. You cannot will to possess the spirit of Christ; that must come as His gift; but you can choose to study His life and to imitate it. This will infallibly lead to such self denying work as visiting the poor, nursing the sick, giving of your time and money to the needy, and the like. If the thought of such self denial is repugnant to you, remember that it is enough for the disciple to be as his Lord. And let me assure you that as you penetrate the labyrinth of the life in pursuit of Christian duty, you will often be surprised and charmed by meeting your Master Himself amidst its windings and turnings, and receive His soul inspiring smile. Or, I should rather say, you will always meet Him wherever you go."
Shalom!
About 2 years into our homeschooling journey I discovered an amazing book at a local homeschool conference called Stepping Heavenward. The story is a life journal of a woman beginning on her 16th birthday. I found it fascinating to read and watch the main character, Katy, grow and develop into a Godly woman, wife and mother.
While planning for my children's education and taking stock of them one year, I found myself asking "What about you, Kel? How have you grown? What areas do you need to work on this coming year?" I was stumped. Then Stepping Heavenward entered my mind and I stopped my planning and began reading. It's been a routine I've visited for many years now. I began my lesson planning today and stopped after a few hours to revisit my book.
The Words on page 100 struck me and I believe I'll be pondering and praying over them. Please enjoy them for yourself as well. Then get the book and read it for yourself! You'll be glad you did.
page 100, pieces of a letter written to Katy from her minister, Dr. Cabot, around her 20th birthday.
....."It has been said that a fixed, inflexible will is a great assistance in a holy life. You can will to choose for your associates those who are most devout and holy. You can will to read books that will stimulate you in your Christian life, rather than those that merely amuse. You can will to use every means of grace appointed by God. You can will to prefer a religion of principal to one of mere feeling; in other words, to obey the will of God when no comfortable glow of emotion accompanies your obedience. You cannot will to possess the spirit of Christ; that must come as His gift; but you can choose to study His life and to imitate it. This will infallibly lead to such self denying work as visiting the poor, nursing the sick, giving of your time and money to the needy, and the like. If the thought of such self denial is repugnant to you, remember that it is enough for the disciple to be as his Lord. And let me assure you that as you penetrate the labyrinth of the life in pursuit of Christian duty, you will often be surprised and charmed by meeting your Master Himself amidst its windings and turnings, and receive His soul inspiring smile. Or, I should rather say, you will always meet Him wherever you go."
Shalom!
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Jim Staley/Truth or Tradition (Part 1/9)
John and I watched this video series last night. I first began questioning some of these things about 4 or 5 years ago after we studied Ancient History with Sonlight Core 6. The book __Caesar's World__ by Genevive Foster was very eye opening. After reading this book and studying with my children, I enjoyed even more traveling at the end of the year Christmas Season.
John and I have had some initial conversation about this over coffee this morning and are still going to pray about approaching these things in our home.
We are rebuilding and seeking Truth! Enjoy this video clip.
John and I have had some initial conversation about this over coffee this morning and are still going to pray about approaching these things in our home.
We are rebuilding and seeking Truth! Enjoy this video clip.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Sabbath Studies and Fellowship
We had a great day yesterday! Over the last few months we've been studying a great deal about the Old Testament and how it applies to our daily lives as Believers in Christ.
As many of your know, our home was destroyed a year ago and we've slowly been rebuilding. During this last year we've identified greatly with Nehemiah rebuilding in Jerusalem.
We believe what Satan used to try and destroy us permanently, YHWH is using us to bring us closer to Him. A verse we've been using to consider this is "If My people will humble themselves and seek my face, I will heal their land." We've literally spent time on the floor, almost daily, seeking the LORD and humbling ourselves before Him.
Yesterday, we began studying the Old Testament in conjunction with many other Believers in the world. A Torah Portion is used to study the Old Testament. It reminds John and I of going through the Bible in a year. There's also a 3 and a half year plan as well as a 1 year plan for studying Torah. It's facinating!
Saturday (Sabbath) morning we listened to a sermon on Numbers 25-26. We discovered a never-before-to-us-talked about Old Testament Hero named Phineas. Please take a few minutes to read about this hero this week. The setting is in the wilderness. Just before entering the promised land, the generation that came out of Egypt was caught in sexual immorality with women from the area. Phineas cut off the ensuing sin and plauge by killing a respected prince of the Hebrews.
Glenn McWilliams, a former Lutheran pastor for many years, taught the Torah Portion of Numbers 25-26 on Michael Rood's website listed to the right.
Then, in the afternoon, we had the R family over for dinner, fellowship and study. The men spent the evening around the dinner table with the Word open and studying to show themselves approved! We girls bounced a beautiful set of 2 month old twins. It was a wonderful day. I am grateful for the fellowship.
My personal 'bent' if you will as we rebuild our home is to Worship and understand as Christ understood, worship and taught. It is not to put on a bond of legalism or works based salvation.
We are humbling ourselves, Father, and seeking Your face, that you may Heal our Home and restore our family to Your intent to use as You see fit.
As many of your know, our home was destroyed a year ago and we've slowly been rebuilding. During this last year we've identified greatly with Nehemiah rebuilding in Jerusalem.
We believe what Satan used to try and destroy us permanently, YHWH is using us to bring us closer to Him. A verse we've been using to consider this is "If My people will humble themselves and seek my face, I will heal their land." We've literally spent time on the floor, almost daily, seeking the LORD and humbling ourselves before Him.
Yesterday, we began studying the Old Testament in conjunction with many other Believers in the world. A Torah Portion is used to study the Old Testament. It reminds John and I of going through the Bible in a year. There's also a 3 and a half year plan as well as a 1 year plan for studying Torah. It's facinating!
Saturday (Sabbath) morning we listened to a sermon on Numbers 25-26. We discovered a never-before-to-us-talked about Old Testament Hero named Phineas. Please take a few minutes to read about this hero this week. The setting is in the wilderness. Just before entering the promised land, the generation that came out of Egypt was caught in sexual immorality with women from the area. Phineas cut off the ensuing sin and plauge by killing a respected prince of the Hebrews.
Glenn McWilliams, a former Lutheran pastor for many years, taught the Torah Portion of Numbers 25-26 on Michael Rood's website listed to the right.
Then, in the afternoon, we had the R family over for dinner, fellowship and study. The men spent the evening around the dinner table with the Word open and studying to show themselves approved! We girls bounced a beautiful set of 2 month old twins. It was a wonderful day. I am grateful for the fellowship.
My personal 'bent' if you will as we rebuild our home is to Worship and understand as Christ understood, worship and taught. It is not to put on a bond of legalism or works based salvation.
We are humbling ourselves, Father, and seeking Your face, that you may Heal our Home and restore our family to Your intent to use as You see fit.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
The Jonah Code - DISC 1 (1 of 11)
I have to post this Truth Teaching Video about Daniel's Prophecies found in the book of Daniel.
John and I have been spending a fair amount of time researching our Hebrew Roots in Scripture. We were pleased to begin earlier this year with this particular video series below. Michael Rood is a gifted teacher and archeologist. He's also a former Marine! HOO-RAH! His personal testimony, which I'm only half way through, is powerful so far.
This video series is best watched over a series of days. Keep your personal copy of the Word close by and follow along in the scriptures for yourself. Study to Show Thyself approved!
Shabbat Shalom!
John and I have been spending a fair amount of time researching our Hebrew Roots in Scripture. We were pleased to begin earlier this year with this particular video series below. Michael Rood is a gifted teacher and archeologist. He's also a former Marine! HOO-RAH! His personal testimony, which I'm only half way through, is powerful so far.
This video series is best watched over a series of days. Keep your personal copy of the Word close by and follow along in the scriptures for yourself. Study to Show Thyself approved!
Shabbat Shalom!
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Pictures of our busy summer
I am waiting for the dishwasher repair man to come. It's a luxury that we just can't go without here. So while I wait; I figured it was about time to update our pictures and journal about some recent happenings.
There are pictures of John opening up Father's Day presents last month. He's wanted a mandolin slicer for the longest time and finally got one! He's sliced up some pretty gorgeous veggies and made us amazing salads since then.
Emily and Jesse both wrapped up ball season. There are pictures of Jesse on 1st base and Emily on the pitcher's mound and hanging out with her team during the tournaments. Jesse's team finished 2nd and Jesse was chosen for the American League All Star Team. They lost to the National League, but had a great game!
The week of July 4th was a tremendous blessing for us as we had our friends, the Brumlows, in town. While we only managed to squeak in one afternoon with them, it was wonderful. I was able to meet 4 of their gorgeous children we hadn't seen yet. The kids got along beautifully. We had Big Girls, Middle Girls and Middle Boys and Dalton, the little guy. We went to the Smithsonian Natural History Museum and enjoyed the hands-on exhibits tremendously! We have to figure out how to get to Texas and seem them before we move next year.
When we aren't on the ballfield or in D.C, we can be found at Urbanna Swim Club in Manassas. Jesse and Emily are big fans of the diving board and spending long afternoons in the water. Lyndsay joins in on occasion and the little 2 just love it. We are all getting quite tan and are excited that there are 2 more months left in the season to swim.
The final 2 pictures are of John and Jesse powerwashing the house in 100 degree heat this last weekend! Jman did a great job down low while Daddy worked the high places on the ladder.
Oh! I've tried several of the recipes from SheCooks.org. The chicken wings were a huge hit here for the 4th of July. My kids fought over them! I'm looking forward to more yummy recipes to follow.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Priceless
There are so many words to express what this picture means to me that there are no words to be shared right now. (Yes, I'm having an emotional moment....what else is new?!) Let me just say Thankyou, YHWH, for AMAZING fellowship with wonderful Believers that encourage us. Only He could orchestrate such an afternoon as this!
Monday, June 28, 2010
A new Blog Find
My girlfriend and I were furiously discussing the new Stampin Up Catalog today when we just had to take a break in the conversation (it calms the creativity down sometimes to just change the subject...we DO get to rambling about the choices to make in design....) Karen had us come up for some air this evening saying "You know the Proverbs 31 devotional I get everyday? Well, considering the ways we've discussed cooking recently, you may just enjoy this blog! It came as a new promo on Proverbs 31 yesterday." So, Karen sent me the link and off I went to investigate.
Wouldn't you know it, another Lee Ann in my life! See, if you are going to be a good buddy of mine you have to be named Dawn, Kellie or Leigh Ann, Karen (Or any spelling of the previous....) There are several of you and you know who you are!
Check out this sweet new blog(new button on the left-She Cooks) to bring a spring back into your culinary life! More soon....today has been a BIG day around here and there's lots to blog about once I get my head around it myself!
Wouldn't you know it, another Lee Ann in my life! See, if you are going to be a good buddy of mine you have to be named Dawn, Kellie or Leigh Ann, Karen (Or any spelling of the previous....) There are several of you and you know who you are!
Check out this sweet new blog(new button on the left-She Cooks) to bring a spring back into your culinary life! More soon....today has been a BIG day around here and there's lots to blog about once I get my head around it myself!
Saturday, June 19, 2010
More June Happenings
Just had to add a few more pictures to my blog. It was wonderful to see Tanya again this month, even under such hard circumstances. I'll be making a road trip to see her soon! 20th bday cupcakes for Lyndsay before her heading out for NYC with Chris and his family to celebrate. Art Co-op is something new for us. We started last month with a group of kids from our homeschool group. We watch the DVDs from How Great Thou Art with Barry Stebbing, then we work our art out together. The pic is of the kids finishing up yesterday's assignments once we arrived back home. The Card pics are from Stamp Club last night.
Now, on to order curriculum...look out bank account, here I come! Everyone enjoy your weekend!
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
June Happenings
June has been crazy already!
We started out our first month of summer with a trip to the Capitol in DC. After our usual snapshot on the metro, we walked from Union station to the Visitors Center and had a great day touring through the rotunda, taking an interactive quiz and looking through the museum. Wonderful day!
We followed this trip up with some testing for Emily. Lo and behold, she's dyslexic and I now have the test scores to prove it! This is really a tremendous blessing to know exactly where she stands and how to help her academically. The developmental peds docs at Bethesda Naval Hospital are just wonderful. So, my plans for school in the fall have all changed and I'm reselling all the good stuff I got used already to put together the BEST choices for Em and Jess. We are still doing A Classical Curriculum...using Classical Conversations as our cornerstone, but will put off using Tapestry of Grace until Emily is more up for it. (Ok, so it's not Emily that it's too much for...it's me. I have a lot of learning to do to present materials to her in the just the right way.)
My summer reading list has greatly changed. I believe you can find me at swim club this year with my newest dyslexia book on my lap, researching the tips and tricks to helping Em. I've already read 1 book, set 1 book aside and have started on a 3rd.
Well, June was also the time to head to Fla and spend sometime with the Gray Family after my Dad's death last Thanksgiving. I was able to bring home a small urn and a special leather wallet I made him at about age 11. The pictures of us in the spa with glasses of wine was wonderful! After talking and eating and walking down memory lane, we made new memories together. Hey, can I put a plug in for my Aunt at age 69 and Uncle at 71....pretty amazing!
I also took in a day at the beach with my Aunt on Sanibel Island. Ceasar Salads, Cokes and sun lotions! Gorgeous Day. Ball Tournaments are in full swing and it's time to head to the field for another evening of sunflower seeds and cheering!
I'm grateful for the rest in sunny S. Fla and am ready to hit the pool for the summer! Potluck for Father's Day! What do you bring to a pool party potluck with 95 other families?!
We started out our first month of summer with a trip to the Capitol in DC. After our usual snapshot on the metro, we walked from Union station to the Visitors Center and had a great day touring through the rotunda, taking an interactive quiz and looking through the museum. Wonderful day!
We followed this trip up with some testing for Emily. Lo and behold, she's dyslexic and I now have the test scores to prove it! This is really a tremendous blessing to know exactly where she stands and how to help her academically. The developmental peds docs at Bethesda Naval Hospital are just wonderful. So, my plans for school in the fall have all changed and I'm reselling all the good stuff I got used already to put together the BEST choices for Em and Jess. We are still doing A Classical Curriculum...using Classical Conversations as our cornerstone, but will put off using Tapestry of Grace until Emily is more up for it. (Ok, so it's not Emily that it's too much for...it's me. I have a lot of learning to do to present materials to her in the just the right way.)
My summer reading list has greatly changed. I believe you can find me at swim club this year with my newest dyslexia book on my lap, researching the tips and tricks to helping Em. I've already read 1 book, set 1 book aside and have started on a 3rd.
Well, June was also the time to head to Fla and spend sometime with the Gray Family after my Dad's death last Thanksgiving. I was able to bring home a small urn and a special leather wallet I made him at about age 11. The pictures of us in the spa with glasses of wine was wonderful! After talking and eating and walking down memory lane, we made new memories together. Hey, can I put a plug in for my Aunt at age 69 and Uncle at 71....pretty amazing!
I also took in a day at the beach with my Aunt on Sanibel Island. Ceasar Salads, Cokes and sun lotions! Gorgeous Day. Ball Tournaments are in full swing and it's time to head to the field for another evening of sunflower seeds and cheering!
I'm grateful for the rest in sunny S. Fla and am ready to hit the pool for the summer! Potluck for Father's Day! What do you bring to a pool party potluck with 95 other families?!
Thursday, May 27, 2010
That's a wrap!
I can't believe that we've wrapped up another school year already. This morning as we finished Ralph Moody's Little Britches we put a lid on our 15th year of homeschooling. It was a great year and I did something I've never done before: I waited. As the snow drifts of winter mounted in the months of January and February I found myself content in finishing up pieces of our curriculum early and simply waiting for direction from YHWH on what to do next. Typically, I'm a mad woman waiting for March to arrive so I can begin planning the next year in step with all the other moms who L O N G to be finished with their curricula too! I'm so glad I waited.
I felt a need to not move forward with our next history rotation in American History. I couldn't get past a pull to go back to the Ancients and back to Creation and beginnings. Through my research and prayer and waiting on Him all things came together beautifully.
Our move next year where the Tigris and Euphrates River run into the Arabian Gulf gives me chills! The Fertile Crescent! The beginnings of Western Civilization! Yep, time to go back to the Ancients. I'm preparing this summer by studying The Patriarchs, a Beth Moore Study from Genesis 12-50. Learning from Romans 11 that the Root of our Ancestors support us and not the other way around has been very eye opening for me. I believe this Bible study will help me with our studies of the Biblical Feasts beginning in August.
For History studies we'll be using Tapestry of Grace Ancients, Year 1. I enjoy the classical formula of education and I have 2 students who need a lot of hands on activities. Tapestry of Grace is perfect for us. We'll rotate through Years 1-4 with Tapestry following the classical model enjoying the lapbooks, salt dough crafts, map work and notebook creations that are in the guide for homeschool moms to use. Please click on the buttons on the left side of the blog and take a look at Tapestry of Grace, it might just be a great fit for your family too! You can start with any year of history you'd like.
I've just enjoyed my first lunch of the summer with my big girl, the little 2 are enjoying a movie and it's now time to start on my summer reading list. The deck is calling! Happy Summer!!!
I felt a need to not move forward with our next history rotation in American History. I couldn't get past a pull to go back to the Ancients and back to Creation and beginnings. Through my research and prayer and waiting on Him all things came together beautifully.
Our move next year where the Tigris and Euphrates River run into the Arabian Gulf gives me chills! The Fertile Crescent! The beginnings of Western Civilization! Yep, time to go back to the Ancients. I'm preparing this summer by studying The Patriarchs, a Beth Moore Study from Genesis 12-50. Learning from Romans 11 that the Root of our Ancestors support us and not the other way around has been very eye opening for me. I believe this Bible study will help me with our studies of the Biblical Feasts beginning in August.
For History studies we'll be using Tapestry of Grace Ancients, Year 1. I enjoy the classical formula of education and I have 2 students who need a lot of hands on activities. Tapestry of Grace is perfect for us. We'll rotate through Years 1-4 with Tapestry following the classical model enjoying the lapbooks, salt dough crafts, map work and notebook creations that are in the guide for homeschool moms to use. Please click on the buttons on the left side of the blog and take a look at Tapestry of Grace, it might just be a great fit for your family too! You can start with any year of history you'd like.
I've just enjoyed my first lunch of the summer with my big girl, the little 2 are enjoying a movie and it's now time to start on my summer reading list. The deck is calling! Happy Summer!!!
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
First Lesson From Patriarchs
I only have a few quick minutes before I must dash out the door and run another of my brood to an appointment. I wanted to share a quote I read again this morning from page 18 of Beth Moore's study of the Patriarchs.
The quote is ascribed to F.B. Meyer
"....How much better would it have been for Abraham to have thrown the responsibility back on God, and to have said, "Thou hast brought me here; and Thou must now bear the whole weight of providing for me and mine: here I will stay till I clearly know what Thou wilt have me to do." If any should read these lines who have come into positions of extreme difficulty, through following the simple path of obedience, let them not look at God through difficulties, as we see the sun shorn of splendour through a fog; but let them look at difficulties through God. Let them put God between themselves and the disasters which threaten them. Let them cast the whole responsibility upon Him. Has He not thus brought you into difficulties, that He may have an opportunity of strengthening your faith, by giving some unexampled proof of His power? Wait only on the Lord, trust also in Him.....He will provide"
It's proving to be a hard few days of rebuilding at our house. These thoughts on Abram and Sarai taken after their initial arrival in Egypt (Gen 12) and presenting Sarai as Abram's sister have done my soul a world of good today.
Blessings to you!
The quote is ascribed to F.B. Meyer
"....How much better would it have been for Abraham to have thrown the responsibility back on God, and to have said, "Thou hast brought me here; and Thou must now bear the whole weight of providing for me and mine: here I will stay till I clearly know what Thou wilt have me to do." If any should read these lines who have come into positions of extreme difficulty, through following the simple path of obedience, let them not look at God through difficulties, as we see the sun shorn of splendour through a fog; but let them look at difficulties through God. Let them put God between themselves and the disasters which threaten them. Let them cast the whole responsibility upon Him. Has He not thus brought you into difficulties, that He may have an opportunity of strengthening your faith, by giving some unexampled proof of His power? Wait only on the Lord, trust also in Him.....He will provide"
It's proving to be a hard few days of rebuilding at our house. These thoughts on Abram and Sarai taken after their initial arrival in Egypt (Gen 12) and presenting Sarai as Abram's sister have done my soul a world of good today.
Blessings to you!
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Heros
Instant communication is tough sometimes. How quickly we can text bad news or email a picture. Before we know it...BOOM! A video is uploaded to Fox News or CNN and we all know what's going on. Living in the D.C. metro area is a very fast paced way of living. I've spent much of the last 2 years wishing life would just slow down a bit here. It's frantic at times.
But today, I was very pleased with technology and its ability to inform quickly. I received a text from a tough Army Spouse about the most recent Army Widow. Out of respect for the freshness of so great a loss I won't name her. But I wanted to take the opportunity to use blogging, an instant form of communication, to let those close to me know; A Hero Died, very recently, on a far away battlefield. He left behind a beloved wife and gorgeous kids.
Would you all please join me in using your instant forms of communication and ask those you know to pray for this sweet family and the loss of their cherished husband and father?
Thanks!
Now to slow down the pace of communication and contemplate just the right card to create with the words to express my deepest sympathies to one of my beautiful PWOC Sisters.
But today, I was very pleased with technology and its ability to inform quickly. I received a text from a tough Army Spouse about the most recent Army Widow. Out of respect for the freshness of so great a loss I won't name her. But I wanted to take the opportunity to use blogging, an instant form of communication, to let those close to me know; A Hero Died, very recently, on a far away battlefield. He left behind a beloved wife and gorgeous kids.
Would you all please join me in using your instant forms of communication and ask those you know to pray for this sweet family and the loss of their cherished husband and father?
Thanks!
Now to slow down the pace of communication and contemplate just the right card to create with the words to express my deepest sympathies to one of my beautiful PWOC Sisters.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Mother's Day Weekend
Here are a few snapshots from Mother's Day weekend. We are so happily busy with Lyndsay in the house, baseball, softball, school work, church, dentist appointments, sale lists, Spring Cleaning that I have little time to write the many things that are on my heart.
Let me just say that I am so honored to be the mother of these amazing children. It's an honor to serve them, love them, train them, teach them, hold them and pray for them. Had I known 20 years ago what I was in store to learn along the way of pregnancy, childbirth, toddlers, messes and sin, I may have RUN! I'm so grateful that the Lord, in His perfect way has given me the Grace to be the mom to Lyndsay, Adam, Emily and Jesse. No matter what may come your way, sweet children, my arms are here to hold you, my wisdom I'll impart, and my prayers you will always have. I love you. Mom-Mom
Let me just say that I am so honored to be the mother of these amazing children. It's an honor to serve them, love them, train them, teach them, hold them and pray for them. Had I known 20 years ago what I was in store to learn along the way of pregnancy, childbirth, toddlers, messes and sin, I may have RUN! I'm so grateful that the Lord, in His perfect way has given me the Grace to be the mom to Lyndsay, Adam, Emily and Jesse. No matter what may come your way, sweet children, my arms are here to hold you, my wisdom I'll impart, and my prayers you will always have. I love you. Mom-Mom
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
In My Home Recently
These are just some ramblings and snapshots of what's been going on in my home recently.
1. Bread baking, we are making at least 1 loaf a week using freshly ground wheat, beans, lentils and barley. I love grinding it in my Whisper Mill, adding organic honey and the rest of the ingredients into my "Zo" bread baking machine and wait for the smells to begin. I've added a picture from this mornings baking.
2. Emily's softball season has started. She has her first scrimmage tonight. We are looking forward to watching the Blue Angels show their stuff! We made a memory together at Monday night's batting practice. Em and I sought shelter under a pavillion together while waiting for the rain shower to pass. It was fun to be out in the rain with my girl!
3. Monday night we hosted Jesse's cubscout den for an end of year BBQ. Due to hosting and running to softball with Em, we didn't take any pictures. But we are still eating the leftovers and they are so yummy!
4. Lyndsay comes home tomorrow and we can't wait to have her here for the summer. She'll be buying a car, getting her wisdom teeth removed and taking one summer class online. Emily has been getting her room ready and making things pretty for her. What a great little sister she is!
5. We are winding down our school year and look forward to the end of May and the finish line. I've already started to work on next year's studies. But after some intial work, have decided to lay everything in large basket near my favorite chair and let it set awhile. Mom needs a summer, too!
6. We are blessed with amazing friends who went above and beyond in sending me something from 'home' that I needed. I made the card in the slide show below as a thankyou! So fun!
7. Couponing has gone great. I've saved about 6 weeks of grocery spending so far this year. Last week I used 117 coupons and saved around $135.00! I ran into a friend from Italy in the Commissary while shopping. It was great to see her and catch up. They move to Germany later this year. If we weren't bound for the middle east ourselves, I'd be jealous! (grin!)
8. Jesse helped John work on the lawn mower this last weekend. He did a great job. The airfilter doesn't seem to be the issue with it, but at least Jesse knows how to turn a screw, unhook the cover and replace the filter if we need it done again! Way to go Jman!
9. Well, just when I thought Jman played his best ball game ever, he out did himself again! 4 at bats, 2 singles, 1 RBI, 1 KO, 2 scores with head first dives into home. Plus there was that great stop and cut off throw from Right field! Awesome job!
That's about all for now. Enjoy the pictures!
1. Bread baking, we are making at least 1 loaf a week using freshly ground wheat, beans, lentils and barley. I love grinding it in my Whisper Mill, adding organic honey and the rest of the ingredients into my "Zo" bread baking machine and wait for the smells to begin. I've added a picture from this mornings baking.
2. Emily's softball season has started. She has her first scrimmage tonight. We are looking forward to watching the Blue Angels show their stuff! We made a memory together at Monday night's batting practice. Em and I sought shelter under a pavillion together while waiting for the rain shower to pass. It was fun to be out in the rain with my girl!
3. Monday night we hosted Jesse's cubscout den for an end of year BBQ. Due to hosting and running to softball with Em, we didn't take any pictures. But we are still eating the leftovers and they are so yummy!
4. Lyndsay comes home tomorrow and we can't wait to have her here for the summer. She'll be buying a car, getting her wisdom teeth removed and taking one summer class online. Emily has been getting her room ready and making things pretty for her. What a great little sister she is!
5. We are winding down our school year and look forward to the end of May and the finish line. I've already started to work on next year's studies. But after some intial work, have decided to lay everything in large basket near my favorite chair and let it set awhile. Mom needs a summer, too!
6. We are blessed with amazing friends who went above and beyond in sending me something from 'home' that I needed. I made the card in the slide show below as a thankyou! So fun!
7. Couponing has gone great. I've saved about 6 weeks of grocery spending so far this year. Last week I used 117 coupons and saved around $135.00! I ran into a friend from Italy in the Commissary while shopping. It was great to see her and catch up. They move to Germany later this year. If we weren't bound for the middle east ourselves, I'd be jealous! (grin!)
8. Jesse helped John work on the lawn mower this last weekend. He did a great job. The airfilter doesn't seem to be the issue with it, but at least Jesse knows how to turn a screw, unhook the cover and replace the filter if we need it done again! Way to go Jman!
9. Well, just when I thought Jman played his best ball game ever, he out did himself again! 4 at bats, 2 singles, 1 RBI, 1 KO, 2 scores with head first dives into home. Plus there was that great stop and cut off throw from Right field! Awesome job!
That's about all for now. Enjoy the pictures!
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
April Picture/Happenings Wrap Up
We are still coming down from the excitement of our move next year. The kids can't wait and Jesse especially thinks tomorrow is moving day. I've found a great line of books about ex-pat living in the Middle East and am anxiously waiting for it to arrive. (Explorer Publishing Co. for you overseas lovers)
Emily and Jesse have a month left of school and this homeschool Mom is ready to be finished with the year. We have continued with robotics in 4H, attended an art class taught by Mr. Berry Stebbing from How Great Thou Art, and started baseball and softball. Emily is still in practice mode with her team, but Jman played his best all around game last night with a single, catching a pop up for an out and holding a runner at 2nd!
Lyndsay will be home next week for a summer of rest and car shopping. She passed her nursing entrance exams with flying colors and is excited to get the party started in the fall with heavy duty nursing classes!
Adam is doing very well. He's growing and maturing quickly. We look forward to a possible return home this summer in preparation for his Jr. year of High School here at home. Keep praying for complete recovery for him, please!
John and I had a wonderful confirmation happen shortly after the command list came out. Wycliff Bible Translation called and asked John to come on staff as a logistics missionary! He/We got quite teary and had some sweet time of prayer committing this before the Lord and seeking direction from him. Ultimately we both believe that this is the Lord's way of confirming our desire to serve Him as missionaries, but not yet. We eagerly look forward to getting to know the Middle East and using that knowledge for Him in the future. While we wait for the correct timing we are continuing to Study the Word, Stay in Fellowship with our church, read more about the Old Testament and study our Hebraic Roots.
What a blessing for our family that this Spring, a time of rebirth, has brought direction and burden lifting from the Messiah.
Pray for me as I am seeking the Lord's continued direction for a conference I'd like to attend in August for Mom Heart Leaders. See my side bar link to I Take Joy for more information on Mom Heart Leadership Conference!
Enjoy the pictures!
Emily and Jesse have a month left of school and this homeschool Mom is ready to be finished with the year. We have continued with robotics in 4H, attended an art class taught by Mr. Berry Stebbing from How Great Thou Art, and started baseball and softball. Emily is still in practice mode with her team, but Jman played his best all around game last night with a single, catching a pop up for an out and holding a runner at 2nd!
Lyndsay will be home next week for a summer of rest and car shopping. She passed her nursing entrance exams with flying colors and is excited to get the party started in the fall with heavy duty nursing classes!
Adam is doing very well. He's growing and maturing quickly. We look forward to a possible return home this summer in preparation for his Jr. year of High School here at home. Keep praying for complete recovery for him, please!
John and I had a wonderful confirmation happen shortly after the command list came out. Wycliff Bible Translation called and asked John to come on staff as a logistics missionary! He/We got quite teary and had some sweet time of prayer committing this before the Lord and seeking direction from him. Ultimately we both believe that this is the Lord's way of confirming our desire to serve Him as missionaries, but not yet. We eagerly look forward to getting to know the Middle East and using that knowledge for Him in the future. While we wait for the correct timing we are continuing to Study the Word, Stay in Fellowship with our church, read more about the Old Testament and study our Hebraic Roots.
What a blessing for our family that this Spring, a time of rebirth, has brought direction and burden lifting from the Messiah.
Pray for me as I am seeking the Lord's continued direction for a conference I'd like to attend in August for Mom Heart Leaders. See my side bar link to I Take Joy for more information on Mom Heart Leadership Conference!
Enjoy the pictures!
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Ancient Paths
Jeremiah 6:16 Stand in the ways and see, And ask for the old paths, where the good way is, And walk in it; Then you will find rest for your souls.
2 Chronicles 7:14 If my people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face..........
A time of confirmation is upon our family right now. We have spent a lot of time meditating and praying on the verses above the last couple of weeks.
However, I didn't know that the LORD's plan for the old paths would be moving to the Middle East! We are so excited to let you all know we are moving to Kuwait next year. John has received a contracting command and we'll be moving in 2011.
We can't wait to see where and how the LORD is going to use us to minister to others, continue to learn about the ancient paths, care for missionaries in the area and grow in His Holy Word.
We both believe that ministry is on the way and we've just had a confirmation happen in that regard that I need to keep private for now. Keep praying for us as we are for all of you!
Our next step in Old Testament Studies arrived today. We will be studying together; Our Father Abraham Jewish roots of the Christian Faith by Marvin R. Wilson.
Continuing on our Pilgrimage and seeking the Ancient Paths,
Kellie
2 Chronicles 7:14 If my people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face..........
A time of confirmation is upon our family right now. We have spent a lot of time meditating and praying on the verses above the last couple of weeks.
However, I didn't know that the LORD's plan for the old paths would be moving to the Middle East! We are so excited to let you all know we are moving to Kuwait next year. John has received a contracting command and we'll be moving in 2011.
We can't wait to see where and how the LORD is going to use us to minister to others, continue to learn about the ancient paths, care for missionaries in the area and grow in His Holy Word.
We both believe that ministry is on the way and we've just had a confirmation happen in that regard that I need to keep private for now. Keep praying for us as we are for all of you!
Our next step in Old Testament Studies arrived today. We will be studying together; Our Father Abraham Jewish roots of the Christian Faith by Marvin R. Wilson.
Continuing on our Pilgrimage and seeking the Ancient Paths,
Kellie
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Pilgrimage Continues
PSALM 84:1-7 NKJV
How Lovely Is Your tabernacle, O LORD of hosts! My soul longs, yes, even faints for the courts of my LORD; My heart and my flesh cry out for the living God. Even the sparrow has found a home. And the swallow a nest for herself, Where she may lay her young- Even Your altars, O LORD of hosts, My King and my God. Blessed are those who dwell in Your house; They will still be praising You. Selah
vs5 Blessed is the man whose strength is in You, Whose heart is set on pilgrimage. As they pass through the Valley of Baca, They make it a Spring; the rain also covers it with pools They go from strength to strength; Each one appears before God in Zion.
As I wrote a few weeks ago, I deeply enjoyed Beth Moore's study on the Psalms of the Ascents. I continue to find my heart set on Pilgrimage with Messiah, our Savior. We have certainly passed through the Valley of Baca (deep weeping and tears) and He has certainly made it a Spring to refresh ourselves from. Just as the Israelites of old traveled to Zion 3 times a year for the Feasts, we are on a pilgrimage to the New Zion, our Heavenly home where Messiah and His Father wait for us. We will appear before Him, Amen!
During my recent study, I was briefly introduced to these 3 Feasts of the Lord: Unleavened Bread, Passover, and First Fruits. John and I have both found ourselves compelled to learn more about these Feasts. It just so happens that I have this amazing girlfriend, Stephanie, who has been learning all about them. She and her sweet family are practicing a Messianic lifestyle. I am enjoying her website that I've posted on my Blog Roll. I'm so glad it's no longer password protected and I can share it with all of you again!
Anyway, this last weekend Christians around the world celebrated Easter, while followers of Messiah celebrated Passover Seder a few days before {if I understand correctly} (Mar 30). Currently the Jewish calendar is counting the omer to the day of Pentecost. (I hope to understand more about this next year!) As John and I researched Easter this last week, we were shocked to discover that the goddess "Easter" is a fertility god who came back to earth as an egg and emerged as a rabbit. Those who practiced worship to this goddess would engage in sex on the Feast of Easter and then sacrifice their newborn children the following year, dipping eggs in the blood spilled by the babies. For our family, we elected to leave our egg coloring kits untouched this year.
I would like to encourage all of you to just do a google search on the history of Easter and Easter as a fertility god. Then make some determinations for yourselves. Truth should always be sought.
John and I have certainly traveled through the Valley of Baca as our home caved in this last year. As we rebuild it, we find there are some things we simply can't put back in their old places. It would create a simliar fragility for us to deal with at a later date. So we sit at the Springs the Lord has created for us to drink from, seek His face through His beautiful Word, and learn more about our Messiah and how He is the reason to celebrate the Feasts today.
More to follow as we are in the infancy stages of our research, Bible time and prayer.
Let the Pilgrimage continue!!
How Lovely Is Your tabernacle, O LORD of hosts! My soul longs, yes, even faints for the courts of my LORD; My heart and my flesh cry out for the living God. Even the sparrow has found a home. And the swallow a nest for herself, Where she may lay her young- Even Your altars, O LORD of hosts, My King and my God. Blessed are those who dwell in Your house; They will still be praising You. Selah
vs5 Blessed is the man whose strength is in You, Whose heart is set on pilgrimage. As they pass through the Valley of Baca, They make it a Spring; the rain also covers it with pools They go from strength to strength; Each one appears before God in Zion.
As I wrote a few weeks ago, I deeply enjoyed Beth Moore's study on the Psalms of the Ascents. I continue to find my heart set on Pilgrimage with Messiah, our Savior. We have certainly passed through the Valley of Baca (deep weeping and tears) and He has certainly made it a Spring to refresh ourselves from. Just as the Israelites of old traveled to Zion 3 times a year for the Feasts, we are on a pilgrimage to the New Zion, our Heavenly home where Messiah and His Father wait for us. We will appear before Him, Amen!
During my recent study, I was briefly introduced to these 3 Feasts of the Lord: Unleavened Bread, Passover, and First Fruits. John and I have both found ourselves compelled to learn more about these Feasts. It just so happens that I have this amazing girlfriend, Stephanie, who has been learning all about them. She and her sweet family are practicing a Messianic lifestyle. I am enjoying her website that I've posted on my Blog Roll. I'm so glad it's no longer password protected and I can share it with all of you again!
Anyway, this last weekend Christians around the world celebrated Easter, while followers of Messiah celebrated Passover Seder a few days before {if I understand correctly} (Mar 30). Currently the Jewish calendar is counting the omer to the day of Pentecost. (I hope to understand more about this next year!) As John and I researched Easter this last week, we were shocked to discover that the goddess "Easter" is a fertility god who came back to earth as an egg and emerged as a rabbit. Those who practiced worship to this goddess would engage in sex on the Feast of Easter and then sacrifice their newborn children the following year, dipping eggs in the blood spilled by the babies. For our family, we elected to leave our egg coloring kits untouched this year.
I would like to encourage all of you to just do a google search on the history of Easter and Easter as a fertility god. Then make some determinations for yourselves. Truth should always be sought.
John and I have certainly traveled through the Valley of Baca as our home caved in this last year. As we rebuild it, we find there are some things we simply can't put back in their old places. It would create a simliar fragility for us to deal with at a later date. So we sit at the Springs the Lord has created for us to drink from, seek His face through His beautiful Word, and learn more about our Messiah and how He is the reason to celebrate the Feasts today.
More to follow as we are in the infancy stages of our research, Bible time and prayer.
Let the Pilgrimage continue!!
Monday, April 5, 2010
Our Long Weekend!
We had a blast this last weekend enjoying Chris and Lyndsay home from school. We celebrated what John and I believe to be our last egg hunt in our home. Next year, we believe we'll be showing Passover Pictures. We are studying more about our Hebraic Roots as we rebuild our home on Christ our Messiah and Him alone! (more on that in future posts.....) It was great to be together! Turn on your speakers so you can enjoy the music!
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
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Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Baking and Couponing
I try to bake a couple of items per week here at home. I'm back to making almost all of our bread these days and piling it up in the freezer. But for today's baking I pulled out a long forgotten recipe for homemade granola bars. This is just too easy:
3 C oats
1 C Chocolate Chips
1/2 C raisins
1/2 C sunflower seeds
2t sesame seeds (I threw in some peanuts as I was out of sesame seeds)
1/3 C wheat germ
Combine dry. Add to the following blended mixture
1C brown sugar
2/3 C peanut butter
1/2 C honey
1/2 C melted butter
2t vanilla
Blend well, place in greased 9 by 13 pan. Bake 350 for 20 min. (Edges begin to golden)
Cool, cut warm and serve!
My inbox this morning had my Harris Teeter weekly flier in it. Wouldn't you know it; they are having triples this week! I threw together some coupons that match up with the ads and headed the kids over there at about 11:00 this morning. They had everything I needed in stock! Out of pocket: 33.37 Saved: 56.61! That's 1.00 per pound on GORGEOUS skinless, boneless chicken breast in the picture!
Enjoy!
3 C oats
1 C Chocolate Chips
1/2 C raisins
1/2 C sunflower seeds
2t sesame seeds (I threw in some peanuts as I was out of sesame seeds)
1/3 C wheat germ
Combine dry. Add to the following blended mixture
1C brown sugar
2/3 C peanut butter
1/2 C honey
1/2 C melted butter
2t vanilla
Blend well, place in greased 9 by 13 pan. Bake 350 for 20 min. (Edges begin to golden)
Cool, cut warm and serve!
My inbox this morning had my Harris Teeter weekly flier in it. Wouldn't you know it; they are having triples this week! I threw together some coupons that match up with the ads and headed the kids over there at about 11:00 this morning. They had everything I needed in stock! Out of pocket: 33.37 Saved: 56.61! That's 1.00 per pound on GORGEOUS skinless, boneless chicken breast in the picture!
Enjoy!
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Open the Eyes of my Heart, Lord!-Fresh Vision
When winter decended last December in a wicked snowstorm of record breaking proportions for No. Va. it left me relieved to be snowed inside my home. Spending a winter just doing the basics of mothering and life that makes us the Coombs Family gave me a sense of peace and comfort to try and tackle our rebuilding efforts inside our home. Lit candles, bread baking, tea on Monday nights with the Cub Scout moms, piano practice, school work, snowmen, hot chocolate and long talks with John were what my heart needed to begin a strengthening process. Yes, I received every flake of snow with gratitude this winter. I must admit, I longed for more those last storms of February. Just a few more days inside, being us, snowed in before the rebirth of Spring sounded heavenly, but alas, did not come to pass.
During this last winter season I attended a Bible Study on Sunday Nights on the Psalms of the Ascent, Stepping Up. Beth Moore wrote this Study and it was just made for our family in it's rebuilding efforts. I found myself planting my family firmly on each step of the Psalms, learning and leaning more on the Lord than ever. Becoming fully committed, once again, to serving my family and bringing the burdens of sorrow to Him to be used for His Kingdom. Once the final step was reached in my Bible Study, just as the Jews did at the end of the Feast in Jerusalem, I could clearly picture Christ standing up and saying for all to hear: ALL that you've just asked of your God is completed in Me! I am the drink offering! I'll pour myself out to you if you only come to Me when you thirst! When your land is dry just as when your soul is dry. I'll provide the Living Water needed for your restoration!
The last day of the Feast, at the end, was the breaking down period, you know the one I'm talking about. The clean up crew is restoring things to order in the facility you've just used and you can't bear to tear yourself away from the heart to heart with a friend you're having or in my case, the seeking of Fresh Vision for my family. I have a clear picture of myself, seated amongst the remnant that's not started back on the road to home yet,hearing from Him, being taught by Him, shown by Him, filled by Him.
As I sit, patiently before Him, continuing to cast off layers of sorrows, burdens, cares, anxieties I'm finding myself asking one thing of the Lord: Open the Eyes of my Heart, Lord. Help me/us to see this Goliath in our lives as You see it. Help John and I to have the heart that longs after You and sees the Victory that only you can provide over such a behemoth in our land. Just as you did for David and the Israelites so long ago.
Spring is almost upon us. The weather is warming, trees are budding a smidge and John and I saw yellow crocus sprouting out of the soil yesterday. We are feeling strength blossom from the safety of a winter's rest in our home. Just as the crocus will slowly and beautifully spring forth to open its petals to reveal Your beauty, do the same in our hearts, Lord. Open the eyes of our hearts, Lord. Keep us on the Pilgrimage to Joy, found in You and You alone.
Fresh Vision. Newness, rebirth. This coming Spring is filled with your Promises, Lord!
During this last winter season I attended a Bible Study on Sunday Nights on the Psalms of the Ascent, Stepping Up. Beth Moore wrote this Study and it was just made for our family in it's rebuilding efforts. I found myself planting my family firmly on each step of the Psalms, learning and leaning more on the Lord than ever. Becoming fully committed, once again, to serving my family and bringing the burdens of sorrow to Him to be used for His Kingdom. Once the final step was reached in my Bible Study, just as the Jews did at the end of the Feast in Jerusalem, I could clearly picture Christ standing up and saying for all to hear: ALL that you've just asked of your God is completed in Me! I am the drink offering! I'll pour myself out to you if you only come to Me when you thirst! When your land is dry just as when your soul is dry. I'll provide the Living Water needed for your restoration!
The last day of the Feast, at the end, was the breaking down period, you know the one I'm talking about. The clean up crew is restoring things to order in the facility you've just used and you can't bear to tear yourself away from the heart to heart with a friend you're having or in my case, the seeking of Fresh Vision for my family. I have a clear picture of myself, seated amongst the remnant that's not started back on the road to home yet,hearing from Him, being taught by Him, shown by Him, filled by Him.
As I sit, patiently before Him, continuing to cast off layers of sorrows, burdens, cares, anxieties I'm finding myself asking one thing of the Lord: Open the Eyes of my Heart, Lord. Help me/us to see this Goliath in our lives as You see it. Help John and I to have the heart that longs after You and sees the Victory that only you can provide over such a behemoth in our land. Just as you did for David and the Israelites so long ago.
Spring is almost upon us. The weather is warming, trees are budding a smidge and John and I saw yellow crocus sprouting out of the soil yesterday. We are feeling strength blossom from the safety of a winter's rest in our home. Just as the crocus will slowly and beautifully spring forth to open its petals to reveal Your beauty, do the same in our hearts, Lord. Open the eyes of our hearts, Lord. Keep us on the Pilgrimage to Joy, found in You and You alone.
Fresh Vision. Newness, rebirth. This coming Spring is filled with your Promises, Lord!
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