Today with Mama Self

the anomalous aunt

2012-01-26T10:52:00.016-07:00

This last week, Lee and I had to be out of town for five days, which caused us to ask friends and family to help watch over the two younger boys. John's basketball games left him staying with a couple different folks and ending up at his great aunt's domicile. Randy was fortunate to get to stay with her for the entire duration.

So, before we left, I forced my 79-year-old aunt to accept a $20 bill because I KNEW she'd take the boys out and spoil them. I also knew that my stubborn aunt would try to refuse that and would definitely refuse anything more. I succeeded...or so I thought.

Today in the mail I received the $20 with the sweetest note saying they didn't need the money for anything during the boys' stay. I found that ironic since she took Randy to a soccer game that cost $3 per person, conveyed the boys out to eat on several occasions, bought some special soup and medicine for one boy's upset tummy, etc. And that, folks, is the way she is.

Needless to say, to my boys (and to me), "Aunt J" is indeed the one who put 'great' in the term great aunt.

tidbits from April 2011

Pic.1: Lee and I were able to attend the court proceedings when our dear friends adopted their newest addition to their family. Oh! How I cried for joy for them... and for me, as I have been adopted into God's family.

Pic. 2: For some inexplicable reason, the front of our oven burst into thousands of tiny glass beads. Freaky!

Pic. 3: My honey turned 43. =)

Pic. 4: Lee and my hair-dude, Sean, and I went out for Ethiopian food. It was delicious, but it was also strange to eat an entire meal in public only using your hands. I managed fairly well. =)

Pic. 5: Woohoo! What a treat!
Lee, John and Randy got to meet baseball hall of fame player Tony Gwynn.

Pic. 6: As always, when our cadet, Miss Anna Mgr., comes over, it's crazy fun. Ah, balloon battles...

Pic. 7: Katy had her last guitar lesson with our good friend Joanie. We miss her hospitality, and I miss the comfy red chair by the wood stove. :(

Pic. 8: John had out-patient surgery to attach a transmitter to his esophagus. Sure enough, he has terrible acid reflux and will require surgery in about a year.

Pic. 9: My oldest baby turned 19. Now he's a BIG baby! =)

resolved...

2012-01-01T21:16:00.002-07:00

After, well, it seems like FOREVER, I intend to start blogging again. I can't begin to describe how consumed with events our family has been, but I would like to catch up the entries to the current times. I guess these chronicles are kind of like a diary for the kiddos and me to see where the Lord has taken us over time.

So, we leave our friends in Atlanta in the morning and head home - to recalling the past and living in the present and anticipating the future. Happy New Year to us all!

blodgett...and don't break anything

2011-03-24T22:46:00.007-06:00

Trey had decided that spring break would be a great time to climb Blodgett Peak with a few of his buddies. Actually, they had planned to camp, but the below freezing temperatures and gale force winds worked to change his mind. (The guys would not have been able to have a campfire in the red flag conditions.)

So, after enduring WAY more advice from parents than any of the guys wanted to hear, Trey, Will, Gary, Tim, and Chris set out for their little hiking adventure.

It wasn't until after 5:00 PM that I received the phone call: Will was bandaged up and would need stitches. He had stepped on one of the rocks that crumbled beneath him and sent him tumbling with other rocks falling on top of him. Fortunately, the first aid pack came in handy.

They were right below the false summit, so Trey and Tim reached the top of that and bemoaned the fact that they would have to descend without reaching the actual peak nor searching for the nearby plane wreckage.I must admit, though, that I was relieved that only stitches were involved. The trail is rated a three out of four on the difficulty scale; the bears are now up and grumpy; the sheer cliff drops are ever present dangers; the winds did not help with footing; there are mountain lion warnings all over that area. I admit it: I worked VERY hard at not borrowing trouble that day. And I thank God they made it back OK.

[The director of the Music Man, of which three of the guys are cast members, instructed all the cast to not break anything over spring break. Next time, she might want to include instruction about not doing anything that requires stitches, either!]

the parting glass

2011-03-17T22:28:00.017-06:00

Let's see... I guess you could say a few things have been going on lately.

uno: We went to our last Air Force
hockey game with Anna, Sarah, and Olivia - and AF won! (We'll miss our hockey games with those sweet friends.)

dos: We hosted a Firelight reunion with Trey and Kate's old drama troupe, complete with a big brunch, a surprise birthday for two of the gals, and TONS of laughs.

tres: Katy and I enjoyed a baby shower for two new friends from church. One of them, Laura (pictured with Katy), is the choreographer for our musical. Even though it's short, we are so very thankful for the time we can spend with our new friends!

cuatro: Lee and I accompanied some friends to see the sold out Dropkick Murphys show(a Boston Irish punk band). I think we were the only four not tattooed or pierced besides our earlobes. I was bummed to see all the drugs and violence there. We were not as familiar with the folks the band attracted as we probably should've been. But you should have seen the looks I got as we passed through the crowd with me saying, "Pardon me. Excuse us." :) There were actually some great things we loved about that night - especially being with those Boston-fanatic-friends.
cinco: I had worn green hair extensions to the concert, so I occasionally now like to wear a rainbow one. I look better in pink and blue than green, and I get the distinct feeling that Lee likes it. ;)

seis: We are TRYING to sell the boys' bed on Craigslist in order to get twin beds. A matter for prayer, as we can not get the new beds until this is gone...

siete: Regular life right now consists of three days a week rehearsing with a giant cast for the Music Man. Singing, dancing, and (Trey, Katy and I have) speaking parts, too. (In the picture, Randy is practicing with me at home, as it takes a LOT for me to remember the routines.) It'll be incredible when it comes together. Right now I'm trying to get costumes made...though I don't sew! I have wonderful folks who are making the costumes possible, though, and I'll forever be grateful!

ocho: Lee's sister is visiting right now on her way to her new home in Oregon. It's good to have more time with family!

nueve: Doctor appointments, piano and guitar lessons, church... We have plenty to do in addition to winding down the school year and going through everything in preparation for our big move.diez: Fortunately, we've been blessed with gorgeous nature and friends that keep our focus heavenward in the hub-bub of busy life. This shall all pass away in time, but God is our steady Rock that we build everything on, knowing that He's given us some of these blessed friends for all eternity.

So, in honor of St. Patrick's Day and the friends we've made here in CO and love, I'll quit with the Spanish and leave you for now with part of an old Irish folksong:

"But since it falls unto my lot,
That I should rise and you should not,
I gently rise and softly call,
Good night and joy be with you all." =)

rachael ray and peyton manning?

2011-02-14T22:15:00.002-07:00

At first glance you might not know what these two celebrities have in common, but they have the enormous admiration of tons of fans the world over...including in my home.

John is seriously interested in football (and getting into the Naval Academy four years from now). He wrote to ask Mr. Manning for any general advice he wanted to give concerning football and bulking up, as John is very slender.

Then there's Randy. He wants as much cooking advice from Mrs. Ray as possible. He has one of her cookbooks, but I think he's most impressed with her kind, approachable affect which makes him think she'd take the time to write back oodles of helpful information.

We'll see if either of these stars take time to respond to their young admirers.

who's been reading my blog?

2011-02-10T19:40:00.002-07:00

So I tried the "stats" thingy on the blog to see if someone, other than my immediate family members and my few blog friends, might be occasionally looking at the old blog, and -surprise! - a few others are. What cracked me up was to see that folks from Russia, France, Belize, Netherlands, Germany, United Kingdom, Latvia, Sweden, and even Belarus, are taking an occasional peek at my mundane musings. I don't know that the statistics are 100% accurate, but if they are, I just have to say, "Hello World! I hope you enjoy a glorious day today!" =D

time to shred a few

2011-02-08T12:16:00.003-07:00

Once again, Katy and I are trying to work out diligently. She is very disciplined and is enjoying the results. I, on the other hand, am SUFFERING. Who knew that there were so many parts of the body that can hurt all at once?!? For a few days even putting my coat on caused me pain. Now it's a little better, and I think my body is starting to deal with the daily torture. I have gotten so out-of-shape. (Then again, round is a shape...) Hopefully I will start seeing results in the next few weeks. I would especially like to see a change in my cardio-stamina. We'll see.

PS I did tell the kids to sue Jillian Michaels if the "Shred" does actually kill me.

peaceful appreciation

2011-02-06T17:03:00.003-07:00

This past week with the bitter cold oppressing everyone who dared to venture outside yielded a most surprising result: I actually appreciate the "normal cold" and the bonus (a.k.a. snow) that occasionally accompanies it. Today we get to enjoy the beauty of the snow piling up outside from the warmth of our home. We have no need to fear uprisings and violence like what our brothers and sisters in Egypt, Tunisia, Algeria, etc., faced today. We were able to go to church and worship the living God in total peace.As I watch the silent snow float to the ground, it made me feel tranquil and long for the day when all will be at peace, as it will surely happen. There is still hope. I know - I read the rest of the Book.
"Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away. And he who was seated on the throne said, "Behold, I am making all things new." Also he said, "Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true." -Revelation 21:1-5

making snow

2011-02-01T18:10:00.003-07:00

By early this afternoon it was -6 degrees with a real feel of -37. I wasn't going to allow the kids to play outside at all, but we saw a cool clip on taking boiling water and throwing up into the air in windy, subzero weather to make snow. That was enough for us to get really hot water and give it a try...and it worked! MANY water tosses later, the boys convinced me that, if layered and bundled up enough, they would be fine playing football outside for a little while. Forty-five minutes was just enough time to let off some energy and come in for a hot dinner. :) What a day!

players, places, people

2011-02-01T07:56:00.006-07:00

This last weekend started with a hockey game. We were so glad to see players that we recognized from last year, and they were still playing with a zeal which set every one's heart racing. The Air Force Falcons ended up tying the game, but the high intensity didn't slow down until the overtime period concluded. We ran into our cadet that we sponsor and found that it was her first hockey game that she's attended at the Academy (as well as the boys' friend Jacob's first game, too). Exciting!
Saturday morning began at a coffee shop. We went to hear a mother/daughter team from our church sing and play. They are SO talented. I've been several times to hear them, and I'm never disappointed by the joyful atmosphere that they bring to the little coffee shop.

Lee and I next went with friends out to Pueblo to spend the day visiting Tom's old haunts that he grew up frequenting. I LOVE hearing the history of a place and seeing old establishments still in business. We got to see the Medal of Honor Memorial. Then we went to grab lunch at Gus's, known for the cold plate lunch complete with bread from the bakery down a couple streets and cold cuts. We enjoyed Gagliano's Italian market and Zoelsmann's German bakery and loaded up on shirts and breads to bring home. We walked the beautiful boardwalk and drove by Tom's family farm. Top that off with the opportunity to hang out with Tom and Donna for a whole day, and you'd be hard-pressed to have a better Saturday!
Sunday after church we had Mgr (our cadet) and her friend over for lunch. Then we had to race over to a birthday party. Miss Elsie turned 90! John and Randy like to spend time with her after church, and Miss Elsie has started teaching Randy how to draw. They have a very special bond with her and mutually appreciate each others' company. I hope the boys will remember to invest in younger folks as they get older, too.

'le buff chef'

2011-01-24T21:39:00.002-07:00

Ever since he can remember, Randy has wanted to do one of two things when he's grown up: either blow things up or cook. For the last three years or so he has decided he'd like to be a chef. He has even started writing a comic book about a character called "Le Buff Chef." Could a twelve-year-old really be serious about such a profession? Definitely. He requested a cookbook for his birthday and another one (along with some Legos, too) for Christmas. He's researched and has determined which culinary school to attend after high school (Johnson and Wales in NC). The cadet we sponsor even bought him a cookbook for Christmas, which goes well with his new bookmark that he got with a gift card.
Now we know that he could very well change his mind at any time, but our family currently reaps the benefits of his culinary curiosity. Between fancy omelets for lunch and interesting entrees from all over the world, we get to be guinea pigs as he tries to create or re-create delectable delights.

Friday evening he prepared a worrisome concoction. He made Pavia soup, for which a small town south of Milan, Italy, is renown. After frying some slices of thick bread in butter, the bread is placed in bowls which are put in a warmed oven. You next bring the chicken broth on the stove to a boil. Pull out the bowls; crack an egg on each piece of toast; pour the boiling broth onto the eggs/toast; top with parsley, nutmeg and Parmesan cheese. You end up with a poached egg in the soup, and...it was SO surprisingly delicious!

Who knows what he'll want to try next?!? It won't matter, though. Even if he bombs, I have bread and peanut butter on hand just in case. ;)

january hodgepodge

2011-01-22T23:07:00.015-07:00

Actually, I'm starting with some old items from last Nov/Dec. I ran across some cute pictures of the kids all together and one of Lee taking Kate out on a Daddy-date and just felt the need to post them. Sweet.

Anyway, Katy got to go to a Civil War ball this year with some friends. They learned a bunch of dances from that era, dressed up, and, well, had a ball!

A friend that we haven't seen in about three years flew into Denver for some training. We were thrilled that we could meet him for dinner and enjoy his company once more. He was quite surprised at how much Trey, Katy and John had grown and pointed out that I am now only taller than Randy. We will get to see Matt again and his family when we travel cross-country in July. :)

Lee went to Mississippi for a week of training for his new job that he'll start in August. While there, he got to take pictures of the house we'll be living in as well as write down the dimensions of each room. The layout will be so weird, since it's a house/apartment combination, but at least I won't have to downsize as much as I'd previously thought. (And Lee is thrilled about this new employment opportunity!)I'd like to tell you about Randy and his adventures in cooking, but it's much too late to start into that, so I'll leave it for next time... And maybe then my thoughts will be better organized.

Until then, may God bless you.

Attention!

2011-01-06T01:35:00.001-07:00

Kate and Amanda:

Please send me invitations to access your blogs...

Thanks!

belated ending

2011-01-05T23:52:00.010-07:00

2010 ended some days ago, and I haven't blogged in over a month, but I wanted to do a quick catch-up for posterity's sake. =D

~We were on a wait-list to help with Operation Christmas Child and got a call telling us we had three days to get our team together. Fortunately, very sweet and helpful folks were able to join us as we helped pack shoe boxes filled with Christmas cheer to be mailed to needy kids in another country. Fun!
~The kids and I watched the lunar eclipse. It was FREEZING, but the young boys took out blankets and enjoyed the event anyway.

~Randy turned twelve. We had a bunch of his friends over, had lunch and "volcano cake" (a.k.a. pineapple upside down cake), and played some great group games that I'd found on-line. The guests were only here three hours, but I was beat by the time they left.
~Trey DJ'd Lee's office Christmas party. They all thought he did great. He got to come dance with us older-folks a bit, too.

~We had about 30 teens over for Trey and Kate's Christmas party. We all had a blast, and they reaffirmed my belief that they are a great group of people!~We went to Denver for Lee's annual commercialized Christmas and were sorely disappointed to find out that Santa only took appointments. We would have had to hang out at the mall for another almost four hours to see him. Very depressing for my poor hubby... He didn't get a white Christmas, either, as it was in the 50's, but at least the snow came the next week..
~Katy, Lee and I sang a song at the Christmas Eve service that will forever remind us of our friends and beloved church in North Carolina. ("Jesus, the Light of the World")

~Our family made a video of Scripture verses and Christmas songs for my mother who is in poor mental health and my stepfather. He said it was uplifting, and I'm glad he felt that way.

~ We had three families over for New Year's Eve that we don't get to see very often. As we sang "Auld Lang Syne," I reflected on the people I've known and loved through the years and some I'd sung that very song with. We'll be living in a different state next year, but it's heart-warming to know that the Lord has so kindly blessed me with the best of family and friends throughout my life. The year has been completed; what adventures will 2011 bring us?

time for thanks

2010-11-19T10:13:00.022-07:00

Boy, it seems like it's been a LONG time since I've had time to blog. And when I looked at recent photos, I realized that it has been a long time indeed. With no way to catch you up on every event since the last entry, I decided to give thanks for the big stuff ('tis the season, you know):

1)Thankful for our health, because our health issues are so tiny when compared to so many folks. (John even ran his first 5k in October!)

2)Thankful for wonderful friends through the years. We were able to visit friends in Westcliffe recently, and we're happily anticipating their visit here for Thanksgiving.

3)Thankful we live in a country where we can vote. It's not a perfect country, but this is such a privilege and resposibility that should not be taken for granted, as we could surely lose it. This was the first year Trey could vote, so he proudly sent in his Florida absentee ballot.

4)Thankful for all the Saturday-pizza-and-a-movie nights that our family has enjoyed together, and that the kids still look forward to that time.

5)Thankful for each holiday our family has shared together, knowing that it will not always be like this. :(

6)Thankful for the infinite amount of humor enjoyed in our home. And for markers that wash off in the shower.

7)Thankful for a husband that takes me away every now-and-again just to be together.
8)Thankful for the beauty of God's creation that we have been able to see. We were able to take the kids to Estes Park where the elk freely roam the town, and we also went to Rocky Mountain National Park where the kids were able to sled and snowboard down Hidden Valley.
9)Thankful that the only living God "so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." (Jn. 3:16) "I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God that you may know that you have eternal life." (1 Jn. 5:13)

I have LOTS to be thankful for, huh?!?!? :)

follow the leader

2010-10-26T08:56:00.003-06:00

My husband was interviewed for a job in September that he REALLY wants. As a Sergeant Major at a Christian military boarding school, he would be able to combine his love for the military with his love for ministering to others and use his years of experience dealing with youth. It seems a no-brainer that he has accepted the job offer. All except for one small item.

The pay is less than what we had hoped for. No, we weren't planning on getting rich, but there doesn't appear to be any wiggle room for emergencies nor any room for investments for retirement. He will fortunately take over the budget, so I will not have to worry about things. I'll just have to live within the budget that we've agreed on.

I guess part of my problem is that I've had to "squeeze blood out of turnips" out of his enlisted paycheck for almost all of our 21 1/2 years together, and now I'll be relinquishing that job to him. As a military wife with a deploying husband, I've had to handle the money. But now we'll be crossing over into civilian life, and I'll be learning to follow him in ways I've never had to before. (Let me just say that submission has never been easy for this head-strong thinker who frequently assumes she has the right answers.) It has become time to follow the leader into the next part of our lives together.

Fortunately, I already know that things will work out for our good and God's glory. (Rom.8:28) *WHEW!*

running around in circles

2010-10-12T22:13:00.002-06:00

So the routine we've been in around here consists of a lot of verbal direction from me and not enough tete-a-tete with the kids or even Lee. It's not that we're so over-extended and busy or off in a thousand different directions that I can't spend time with each person in our family. No, it's more complex, but I'm pretty sure I know what it is.

I notice this right before a deployment or a move is about to swallow up all my thoughts and energy. There's a slight callousness that settles in before I start to withdraw, even from the most important people in my life. It's not that I'm overwhelmed (YET!), but my mind is trying to protect me from the impending change - without giving a hoot about others. Fortunately, the Lord has pointed this out before and has enabled me to fight it. But I hate to fight. I'm a lazy person by nature, ya' know, but it's not like I have a choice. It's time to focus and be part of my family again, part of my friends' lives again.

Though I don't look forward to certain things [leaving our CO friends, packing and moving cross-country next summer, my mother's declining health], I do eagerly anticipate Lee's retirement, Katy's high school graduation, Trey and Katy settling in at Belhaven University next fall, visiting friends on our way South, and starting a new phase of life somewhere else. The key, however, is to live each day with purpose instead of living only for the future. We're not promised tomorrow. But we can enjoy those God has blessed us with today. "This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it."

Cinderella's last dance

2010-10-02T12:52:00.009-06:00

So there are "lasts" coming at us from all over: our last summer in Colorado Springs, the last barn dance at the Funke's, and our last Navy Ball.

The barn dance was so much fun for all the kiddos (with the exception of John hurting his knee during a frisbee game), and Lee and I were able to enjoy the company of friends that we don't get to see often.Now that we are into our last fall out West, we have had to deal with the Navy/Air Force rivalry that builds up before the big football game. There's only one other Navy family at our church, so tomorrow will be difficult if we lose and have to face all the AF families (especially the ones that tend to be the most vocal and a bit abrasive). Though Navy has won the last seven games, Lee and I have avoided the topic after the game in order not to hurt feelings. We'll have to wait and see what happens tomorrow... In the meantime, GO NAVY! PLUCK THE FALCONS! ;) [Update: AF beat Navy 14 to 6...better luck next year, USNA middies.]

But last night we had the opportunity to go to our last Navy Ball. (If Lee gets the job he wants, we won't be anywhere near a Navy or Marine Corps base.) We doubled with the other Navy couple from church and had a blast! The meal and ceremony were great, but the dancing was the most fun. We closed the party down and went up to our hotel room. We decided to wind down with the Food Channel and ended up sending out for pizza in the wee hours of the morning. =) Lee and I had so much fun together that it was like a mini-vacation. Though it was difficult to think of this part of our lives coming to a close this year, I SO look forward to the next part of our journey. With such a fantastic husband, I know we'll have a fabulous time as we continue our adventure through life together!

wrap it up - i'll take it

2010-09-16T08:09:00.008-06:00

Before:
guitar started for Katy;
piano started for John and Randy;
choir started for Lee, Katy, John and me;
and Labor Day provided a reprieve from home school, Trey's college classes, and Lee and Trey's jobs;
we were already venturing into new worlds for tomorrows yet to come...

You see, Lee will retire in less than ten months, so he's been actively pursuing a job in Mississippi. Katy and Trey have decided to head South for college next year, too, so they've been looking into Belhaven University and had already been accepted before the "Big Trip."

Indeed, with the groundwork completed, we took a week to drive to MS, visit with my cousin Warner and his wife Becky, spend time with Bekah and Maggie (already attending Belhaven), get interviewed for the job Lee wants, audition for college scholarships, and drive back to CO. The trip was exhausting and yet fulfilling. Lee's interview went so well, that the school is now negotiating a salary/compensation package with him. (We'll see if this works out.) Trey and Katy both got into the choir of their choice, and Katy's theatre audition was amazing. We'll see in a few months if there will be more scholarships coming their way.

Now that we're back, we are neck deep into all the things we took a respite from over that one week. Plus we have planning...LOTS of planning and cleaning (read: downsizing) and budgeting. Just like yours, life doesn't slow down for us, as health problems keep popping up for a couple kids, and new bills are plaguing us. But God continues to provide as we try to faithfully finish the last part of this segment of our lives. With all six of us still living together, I'm trying to take the time to relish these last precious moments as they flee from my grasp.

you say goodbye, and i say hello...

2010-08-17T19:28:00.007-06:00

goodbye:

summer vacation
wonderful family friends that deserted us for, of all things!, collegehello:

friends back from trips
baseball games
homemade pickles and basil oil birthday number seventeen glasses for all but Lee and health issues for two kiddos
the return of school (including an attempt at Russian)

and hello to time with the kids, enjoying my life, and being thankful to God for so many blessings

it's gone in 5, 4, 3, 2, 1...

2010-08-02T19:29:00.010-06:00

I can't believe I haven't blogged in over a month...and we haven't even left town! And now summer is almost over, so here's a quick update on some of the things we're thankful about our summer thus far:

5) John turned 13 and celebrated with fishing and friends. I now have three teenagers under my roof. *gulp*4) Lee and John hiked Pikes Peak. (I'm so proud of them!)3) Amy and my nieces came for a visit. Some highlights included the amusement park rides at The North Pole, recording an Adventure in Odyssey at Focus on the Family, and rockin' the house at night with lots of music and laughter.2) Sunday night small group is still meeting at our house. We love the lessons, fellowship, and coffee.

1) Bucks, bears, and bats...we're still amazed by the wildlife here on base.

the old woman and the mountain

2010-06-29T12:49:00.003-06:00

Today I took one of the most painful showers, and it only served to remind me of yesterday's feat.

After walking for some days in hopes to strengthen my ankle, I succumbed to the lure of hiking Stanley Canyon with my family and some friends yesterday. They had agreed to go slow for me, as I knew I could not make it if they went fast. We had some snacks, lots of water and our camera. So, off we went.

At a 22% incline and loaded with boulders and rocks, the first part made me huff and puff fiercely (and, I was thinking there'd be no way that I'd make it). Fortunately, there were also beautiful paths and meadows and shady walks next to the stream that took my mind off of the first part. We made it to the reservoir and enjoyed a nice break. Too bad our camera died.

The way down didn't start too badly, but when we got to the boulders and gravel, I knew right away that old tennis shoes were not good for this kind of hiking. Trey was good enough to help his mom across the hardest parts, and so, as we neared the last quarter of the walk back, I was conscious of my good fortune that all had gone well. Until I fell, that is. Indeed, my feet completely slipped out from under me as I skidded quickly over the gravel. A large stone was my head's stopping point, and my left foot ended up next to my hip somehow. It took a moment to realize what'd happened, but all was intact, so off we went. I slipped one more time, but not as extravagantly, and we made it back to the van.I iced my ankle and left knee when we got home and expected my muscles to be sore today. Instead, I found that my ankle isn't too bad, but my knee can't straighten out all the way, I still have a goose egg on the back of my head, and I have large purple bruises on various parts of my body.

Though it looks like the mountain kicked my hiney (literally, too), I am looking forward to hiking boots, a walking stick, and August - when I'll try this again. And, thank You God for keeping us safe. =)

every girl needs one

2010-06-24T20:51:00.002-06:00

Silly comments and jokes tend to grow at our house, and they stick around for months.

Lately, the silliness started when Katy asked what the plural for asparagus was, to which I said in a thick accent that it's what every girl needs - an a-spare-a-guy! (It's really asparagus...kind of like deer is plural for deer.) It made for a good laugh. Later she told Lee, and he said he'd have to strongly object, which brought more chuckles.

Then Randy asked about what we call guys' spare girls. I told him they weren't allowed to have any. Of course, he then piped up and informed us that he had a couple and just wanted to know what to call them. =)

about to burst

2010-06-23T13:25:00.002-06:00

Of course I love to hang out with my friends. But it surprises me so often to find that my friends are not always like what others would suppose that I'd have. Yes, my closest friends tend to be my peers in age, lifestyle, beliefs, etc., but I've been blessed above anything I could imagine.

Through the years God has also given me some friends that are much older and some much younger. More than mere acquaintances, a bond has been formed with all kinds of folks that I have grown to love, and today I got to have lunch with a group of them. A couple of gals are due to marry soon, and some are making career decisions. I love to spend time with them, so I decided we should have a get-together before life gets too busy again.

With all of us sitting around the table, I thought I would burst. I know it sounds corny, but I just love these gals...tons! A great lunch, lots of chatting, a few scripture verses, and time slipped through my fingers, as it was all too soon time to go. After hugging each goodbye and walking to my car, I wondered if they each knew how special they are to me, these godly, intelligent young ladies. Lord, please keep them close to You, and thank you for letting me be part of their lives.

3rd of 3

2010-06-10T14:30:00.007-06:00

So graduation was over, but my in-laws got to stay another day, our cadet that we sponsor hung out a couple extra evenings, and my sweet sister and her family were able to stay in town for a week! We ran around enough to keep the house disastrous, as we'd come in and change before the next event, but that didn't deter our excursions. Pikes Peak, a Sky Sox game, an Academy tour, time at Focus on the Family - including a chocolate soda from Whit's End! -, Garden of the Gods, America the Beautiful Park, eating out, the Royal Gorge train ride, etc., were crammed into the week. We had a great time and are grateful we were together once again.Now, however, it's back to routine life... 8-)

2nd of 3

2010-06-09T09:39:00.003-06:00

Trey's graduation and graduation party went well, but it now feels like a vague memory of the distant past. Even with a bad cold and while sucking on cough drops, Trey delivered his speech with aplomb. I didn't cry (surprisingly enough!), and we so enjoyed time with the friends and family that participated. Trey also heard from friends and family from all over the country that were unable to attend. It was a great end to his childhood as well as a launch into adulthood. He has some enormous decisions to make this last year at home...

1st of 3

2010-06-08T08:02:00.010-06:00

Obviously, I've been away from the blog world for a while, but the time has come for a bit of an update. But before I go on, I want to remind you to click on the collages to enlarge the pictures, as it's hard to get the gist of the what we saw in such tiny frames.

First, I'd like to tell you of our family vacation. We have such a fabulous time hanging out together and exploring new places, and this trip did not disappoint us (excluding the occasional arguing that had to be squashed).

The first stop was at the Great Sand Dunes, where we attempted to sand-board, but the lack of precipitation and the 50-mile-an-hour wind gusts prevented our success. And, by the way, people who live in deserts are covered from head to toe so the sand won't pelt them to death: it hurts!
Our second stop was the Cliff Dwellings of Mesa Verde. This was the most awe-inspiring part of the trip to me. How the Pueblo Indians were able to build these amazing structures and live in them is unfathomable. What innovation God granted man!
The third stop to Monument Valley Park in the Navajo Nation was breathtaking. Our van couldn't handle the 17 mile trek through the buttes because of the deep ruts on the unpaved road, so we settled for lots of photos from far away. We enjoyed flat bread and Navajo tacos from a neighboring town that were suggested to us by a friendly Navajo lady. Playing a card game in the evening at the Village Inn provided lots of laughs, but I got a little concerned that we might be thrown out if we didn't settle down a bit. :)
Our last port-of-call on this adventure was the Grand Canyon. Lee and I had seen it in 1986 on choir tour, but this was the kids' first time to see God's handiwork on the Canyon up close. Beautiful.
Oh - what we have seen! We thank God for allowing us the gift to experience this beautiful country together. (Including seeing Route 66 - reminds me of Nat King Cole singing a certain song...)

sorry, but i gotta' run

2010-05-17T08:04:00.007-06:00

The America's Armed Forces Kids' Run was held Saturday on base. Trey ran the 5k, and John and Randy ran the 2-mile race. (The rest of us cheered and took pictures.) The boys did great, but it was apparent that Randy prefers sprints over distance races.
(Click pictures to enlarge...and you'll see what I mean!)
Yesterday was Firelight's last performance. Trey and Katy will miss their drama team, but I am sure they will appreciate having more time on their hands. I know their goodbye-party on Tuesday will be bittersweet.

We're gearing up for our trip out West this Saturday. We have lots of cleaning and completing of school stuff before then to do, so I guess I'd better run for now. I'm sure there will be lots of pictures to post when we return. Until then, may the Lord God continue to bless you abundantly. :)

the chill in the air

2010-05-13T09:29:00.005-06:00

It's May 13th and raining snow outside. Though not cold enough to accumulate, the dingy sky with the clumps of cold falling from it seems really appropriate.

Because of a great deal on airfare ($10 trips on Jet Blue for two days), Lee and I were able to make a one-night trip to MA to visit my mother. I have been longing to see her for a long time, but we haven't been able to go until this opportunity miraculously appeared.

Mother has Pick's disease and is loosing her memory and her comprehension. It's a terminal illness. I was so blessed to see her while she still remembered me and my family, and we were able to visit for a few hours. It was sad to hug her goodbye, knowing it would be the last time I'd be able to, but in a way it was good that she didn't quite understand that fact. I was blessed to tell her that I love her in person; not everyone has such an opportunity.

It was hard going there because I had not seen that house nor my stepfather for over thirty years. Without giving details, I'll just say that my life there as a child was hard, and over many years God had to bring me to a place where I could forgive others as He'd forgiven me. I'd thought all of my past was pretty much dealt with, but the flashbacks started coming as my trip grew nearer. Praise God that He took all that away when we arrived. I was able to sincerely shake my stepfather's hand and know that I wished him well and not harm. A new relationship has begun.

As we were there, it was easy to see that my stepfather is devoted to my mother. Though they both suffer from major ailments, they have comfort with each other. I don't know for sure where they stand with God, which gives me the greatest concern. My mother has made a profession of faith in Jesus before, but, besides in our letters, I never got to see if she trusted in Jesus alone to save her from the wrath her sins deserve. She would not have really understood, it appeared, if I asked her on this visit, as it is now hard for her to focus her mind. I hope they both found peace with God and can be together with Him after this life is over. I can't tell you how much I hope for them.

We got to see my sister and niece LATE that night at our hotel room. We had a pleasant visit. It was a much needed trip.There's sill a lot for my mind to process, and the gloomy skies and chill I feel correspond to my sadness. But Romans 5 has a great reminder for me:
3And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; 5and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

Yes - That hope does not disappoint...

broke(n)

2010-05-07T09:27:00.003-06:00

What do a graduation party and two boys with a football have in common? It causes the paying parents to go broke. Why? Well, the party is a given as far as costs go, and the football met with a window and won. UGH! It'll all work out, but sometimes I DON'T like the process!

planning and doing

2010-05-04T08:27:00.012-06:00

The end of the school year is wrapping up over the next few weeks, as is the many Firelight performances that the older two are in. While we try to flawlessly bring those to an end (HA!), we have so much else already going on over here.

- Trey and Katy are both looking for jobs to start on June 1st.

- We have a five day trip to the Great Sand Dunes, Mesa Verde, Monument Park, and the Grand Canyon to prepare for and then enjoy.

- Final details on Trey's graduation ceremony/reception/and party are getting completed.

- MANY birthday and graduation parties will be attended.

-Spring cleaning needs to be completed before my sister and her family and my parents-in-law arrive for a visit.

- The class on poverty that I attend weekly will be finishing in just a couple more weeks.

- Randy gets his spacer that he'll wear for half a year.

All of these things will be over by the end of May, and then it will be time for a relaxing summer, right? Right? RIGHT??? ;)

Trey-day

2010-04-28T07:57:00.006-06:00

The boy turned 18 today, and, though we could legally kick him out, it looks like he'll be living at home at least until next summer. :) He was offered some different scholarships, but none of them were enough to keep him out of debt. So he'll finish his AA and then figure out what to do next. He plans to either enlist or go through the PLC program to become an officer in the Marine Corps in order to get the GI Bill to pay for his schooling. It will put off what he really wants to do, but that's OK, as his life will work out according to God's plan. He's got a good attitude and is content to take things one step at a time.

We're still getting graduation stuff together. Here's his bio that will be in the program:

Dennis L. Self III ("Trey")

Trey has been fortunate to be a "Navy brat" all of his life and so have the opportunity to explore different regions of the United States and learn to adapt to his ever-changing environment. He has always loved the outdoors, playing sports, music, and serving others through volunteer work. Over the last few years he has developed a love for history with a fascination for Russia and its people. Trey plans on spending the next year completing an Associates of Arts in Foreign Language and later pursuing a dual B.A. in Russian/Foreign Area Studies and English. He hopes to one day go to Russia as a missionary to aid the orphans in their plight to survive and find meaning in their lives, but Trey has learned - and continues to learn - to wait on the Lord and His perfect plan. No matter where God leads him in the future, Trey wants to live a life that glorifies Him.

slide show

2010-04-22T11:31:00.006-06:00

It won't be exacatly like this, but the pictures and the music will be the same. One more thing done before the actual graduation ceremony on May 29th...

Our charge to Dennis L. Self III ("Trey"), taken from

Proverbs 3:1-6
My son, do not forget my teaching, But let your heart keep my commandments; For length of days and years of life And peace they will add to you. Do not let kindness and truth leave you; Bind them around your neck, Write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good repute In the sight of God and man. Trust in the LORD with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight.

(Don't forget to pause the music on the sidebar on the right before starting the slideshow below.)

Firelight

2010-04-12T09:00:00.003-06:00

Amazingly, I've been consumed with Trey's upcoming high school graduation, so blogging has fallen by the wayside. We had to get 24 pictures to encapsulate his almost eighteen years of life, and that is NOT an easy feat...especially when you have over 7000 pictures to go through. I was surprised by his choices, as some were just to show his humorous side that usually only his family and closest friends are privy to experience. It looks like he's going to use the "Magnificent Seven" theme song to accompany the slide show.Trey and Katy were both picked to be part of Firelight, a drama team, a few months ago. The five-member cast, supervised by three others, wrote and acted in several skits while incorporating dramatic readings and songs to complete a one-hour performance. We saw their second performance last night, and everyone was talking about how great it turned out. Katy sang Ginny Owen's "If You Want Me To," and Trey had a dramatic reading, and they both skillfully portrayed their characters in the skits. I knew Trey and Katy were talented, but they really shine when given the opportunity. I thank the Lord for blessing them with such wonderful talent!

http://www.forestgate.org/Firelight.pdf

i hate it on this end

2010-03-22T14:30:00.006-06:00

Usually, it seems, we end up being one of the first ones to move away. Unfortunately for us, this time our neighbors retired and beat us out of Colorado. They had been our neighbors for the whole time (almost two years) that we've been out here, and we'd become great friends.So, here's to technology and staying in touch. We already miss you, Paula, Jan and kids.

Another thing I hate is when the kids are learning to drive. I know it's true that life can be easier when you are not carting the kids to and from different engagements, but the learning-to-drive phase turns me into a nervous wreck. I KNOW God is in control, but I will constantly battle anxiety while Katy learns to drive. (I am thankful for her good driving school she's attending this week, though.)

Finally, we are STILL waiting to hear where Trey is going to go for college next year. I hate not being able to do anything to speed up the process. Everything is turned in, and we are left to wait...seemingly forever.

And yet...spring is in the air. It is probably just a brief glimpse of spring before we plunge right back into winter, but it is a good reminder that being on this end of things is really a new beginning, though sometimes bittersweet. It still has potential...

what's love got to do with it?

2010-03-10T07:36:00.003-07:00

I guess you could say that a running theme through our house over the last month that has garnered much discussion has been love. We've discussed loving God, our neighbors - including strangers -, our parents and siblings (especially when they don't deserve it), and our enemies, etc. We've even talked about various definitions of love, including the infamous, descriptive I Corinthians 13 passage from the Bible.

It's so hard to explain it to kids who still are so easily persuaded by emotion, though. After all, it is true that it's much easier to love those who are in your good graces. Loving someone that has disciplined, discouraged, or disappointed you is much more difficult. And I think it's unfair to think that we are robots who can show love without having any emotion from which our actions stem, but it is important to show/teach the kiddos that sometimes we must act first before our emotions return to what they once were.

What's been really interesting around here has been watching folks express love in their different ways. For a couple, LOTS of hugs and words of encouragement are needed. Another just likes "hanging around" and being with you. Another lives for giving gifts. It makes us ponder what kind of people they'll need to marry...

I guess that Lee and I have adapted to each others needs, and we tend to need and do all of the above in various amounts. It's funny to think back on diverse trials that our marriage has gone through and see that our love has not only endured but actually grown. (God deserves all the praise for that!) And I do hope the kids can see how important nurturing that love is to both Lee and me.

After all, without love, we are nothing.

they keep finding me...

2010-02-23T07:50:00.002-07:00

So, after many requests, I ventured into the land of Facebook a few months ago. I personally only requested to befriend five people (two sisters and three friends who live far away), and yet I now have 131 friends. It has become a family joke, and we get a huge kick out of it when someone new adds me - especially since I ran my first name and my hubby's together as the "first name," used my married name as the "last name," didn't use my maiden name at all, didn't put high school or college...yet folks keep finding and adding us.

Obviously, if I wanted to stay completely hidden, I would have never gotten the FB account started, but I did intend for only people that have known us since we'd been married a few years to add us. I would joke with people that I had to let the statute of limitations run out in Hoover and Hattiesburg before Alabama and Mississippi police could be privy to my whereabouts. Though that's just a joke, I seriously did not want a certain bunch of folks from my high school and college years to find me. I know I am "a new creature in Christ," by my wicked past only brings feelings of overwhelming shame.

So, I thank God for the great and surprising technological-reunions I've had so far, and I know that if certain people do find me it'll be an opportunity to share where this wretched beggar found the Bread of Life. And, in the meantime, I remain awestruck at the Holy One's love for someone like me.

rocky mountain high, colorado

2010-02-13T14:50:00.009-07:00

We were able to scrounge up enough coinage to take the kiddos to Copper Mountain for a day trip. Fortunately, a couple great church friends were able to accompany us and show the older two the ropes. Trey went snowboarding; Katy did some skiing; John and Randy enjoyed skating on a lake and snowboarding around the resort's smaller hills. Everyone had a great time, and we were exceedingly blessed to make it home without any injuries. (Click on pictures to enlarge them.)

I can't get over all of the great experiences God has given us as a family. =)

Below are a video of John and Randy having fun and a very short clip of Katy and Sarah after their first run on the mountain. (Pause the music on the right to hear the video...)

hodgepodge

2010-02-09T11:15:00.001-07:00

Pippin after his bath/Winter beauty in Colorado/Inside the cactus that John and Randy brought home

today to do

2010-02-04T11:18:00.002-07:00

two cups of coffee
balance checkbook
banana on my cereal
drink lots of water
workout and chat with Katy
check schoolwork
lunch
shower
writing instruction
check more schoolwork with the boys
tidy and clean
read
chat with Trey
dinner with friends
reflect with Lee on the day

be thankful

i like boring

2010-02-01T09:21:00.002-07:00

Actually, there's usually a lot going on around here, but we are back in a really good routine. I guess the only big change is that John did get his braces, and he looks great with them. Of course, he got Navy colors for his bands which got his dad puffed up a bit.

The boys have been busy making "shelters" in the neighbors' yards and enjoying playing in the bright sunshine. Trey and Katy continue to trudge through schoolwork and meet with the drama troupe of which they are now a part. Lee and I do our day-to-day activities and look for times to be alone - which usually come late at night after the kids are downstairs. I won't complain, though. ;)

for us He became poor

2010-01-29T09:41:00.001-07:00

I've been reading this book on poverty that has really opened my eyes. I knew the answer wasn't to throw money at the problem and it will fix itself, but I'd fallen into the trap of believing that education would fix the problem without realizing that educators can't even effectively communicate with poor students unless said educators are trained for it. No, the book doesn't imply that there's a cookie-cutter remedy for helping the poor, but when you understand the deep differences in mindset, you realize our country is going about things all wrong.

One thing that was very interesting was the list of several different resources needed for people to get out of poverty including a belief in God. Dr. Payne does not give any indication in her book that she's a Christian or proponent of Christianity. However, the studies used show that without the belief that there is a God that is bigger and more powerful than themselves, those stuck in generational poverty fall into a belief that their destiny is just a fate that can never change. Without the knowledge of being created with a purpose, they don't feel that they - nor anybody else - have any worth, which can readily be seen in their actions. Interesting.

I obviously didn't sit down and start reading these books for "fun," but they were recommended by an organization called Faith Partners that we work with here. (We mentor a family that is on welfare in the hopes of helping them transition into a different way of living. There is a couple year limit out here of how long you can receive welfare.) The thrust of the program is to pray for the family as we train them in budgeting, schedules, how to further education and set long-term goals, etc., and, mainly, become real friends. There is no looking down on them; they deserve to be treated with dignity.

I am excited to learn how to better communicate with our mentee family and to better help them. I have been thinking, though. As a Christian, I do want to share the good news of Jesus, and this can impact lives. But the "good news" is not how to get into the middle class. After all, Jesus left the riches of heaven and became poor for our sakes. The good news is that while we were dead in our trespasses and sins, Jesus demonstrated His love for us by living a perfect life and dying on a cross to take away the wretched sins of all who'd believe and trust in Him. His resurrection on the third day shows us that He was sent by God the Father to free sinners from the bondage of sin and give them hope of abundant life, one of joy and purpose and fulfillment and peace. It transcends finances, social stature, cultures, ethnicities...and fulfills the most basic need of humanity by making us right with the living and holy God, the One who created all people in His image.

Looking at my fellow humans that are in need, while knowing the God who saved me, I recognize how privileged I am to work with such important people.

and no camera...

2010-01-23T22:17:00.000-07:00

We met some sweet friends at the hockey game this evening and had such a great time. The youth and younger kids chatted and goofed around while enjoying the game...and Lee and I did, too, with our friends. But there was a small problem: hockey games can be intense, and that's when I REALLY get loud. My friend is much more proper and soft spoken, so I might have shocked her a bit. She still hugged me after the game, though, so I suppose I didn't scare her off.

The game was amazing. Actually, the last two periods and overtime were, and the first period was a dud. Anyway, we won with .6 seconds left in OT. Did you notice? POINT SIX, as in six-tenths of a second. THRILLING!!! Gotta' love sports...

So, here we are, having a grand time with each other as well as with another dear family from church, the game is awesome...and we have no camera with which to document the sweet memories. At least that was the only "problem" with the day. NO complaints here. And I hope you had a wonderful Saturday, too. :)

the climb

2010-01-20T19:00:00.001-07:00

We enjoyed having a cadet spend the night with us over MLK weekend. She was able to join us for Sunday school, church, lunch, and small group. Sunday evening we hung out and watched a movie and stayed up until the wee hours of the morning talking. The kiddos took her climbing at Garden of the Gods on Monday afternoon... lots of fun.

darwin was right

2010-01-18T13:29:00.005-07:00

(well, partially...)

Trey read Darwin's The Origin of Species and loved it. The writer was quite compelling, and his explanation of evolution was, at first blush, completely logical.

{Actually, we agree with micro-evolution (a.k.a. adaptation) but see some fallacies in his leap into macro-evolution such as the problem with the missing link, timetable distortions, etc.}

What we find extraordinary, however, is the complete dismissal of Darwin's last line in today's humanistic society that desperately wants to exclude the idea of Intelligent Design from all public classrooms while stating repeatedly that it embraces Darwin's theory of evolution. Darwin says, "There is grandeur in this view of life, with its several powers, having been originally breathed into a few forms or into one; and that, whilst this planet has gone cycling on according to the fixed law of gravity, from so simple a beginning endless forms most beautiful and most wonderful have been, and are being, evolved." Obviously, he was a theistic evolutionist.

At our house, we continually try to prove/disprove some of his points. For example, here's one of our attempts to actively exhibit survival of the fittest:

;-)

deserted again

2010-01-11T21:31:00.000-07:00

It's true: Lee left. He's in Florida for one week for a conference, and I'm all alone. Well, as alone as you can be with four kids at home... :)

It'll take the whole week to get to where I can sleep soundly again, and then he'll come home. Fortunately, the kids and our business keep me preoccupied. I have realized during this, though, that I have become rather attached to having him at home - I have actually gotten used to it. And I like having him here.

I won't complain about his desertion this time, as it's nothing like the long tours in Iraq or on the aircraft carriers. Instead I will concentrate on his return this Friday. What to wear, what to wear... ;)

pain

2010-01-08T14:40:00.001-07:00

After a time of sweet fellowship and prayer, I was privileged to accompany a friend to visit her mom in the nursing home. The mom's medications were messed up, and she's being weaned off of them. I have seen her in church before, but her deterioration over the last few weeks has been startling. She can't eat or talk. You can see that she is in pain, and she barely sips enough water to stay alive.

My poor friend was in tears almost the entire hour and a half, as she has never seen her like this (and she was there three days ago!). She spoke sweetly to her mom as she tried to help her dress and eat. She rubbed her mom's back continually and hugged her. The mom didn't communicate anything until right before we left when she laid her head on her daughter's shoulder. There it was: love in the middle of pain and confusion. For both of them.

Please have mercy, oh my God.

let's start the new year right

2010-01-05T20:46:00.001-07:00

As hard as it's been to get back to school, these last two days have not really been that bad. The feeling of starting up again with newly refined schedules (more like routines) reminds me of the euphoria of a new school year, and that always helps us overlook the regular problems of the school day.

I've appreciated the busy hum of routine. We've all been busy with school and housework and lots of "etc.", and it's a good sensation. The boys were surprised to find that they had actually NOT forgotten everything they'd learned earlier this year. Trey is still working on scholarship applications, and Katy continues to write her book with the hopes of getting it published this year. My main job has been the budget, as John gets braces this month. (He's excited, too.)

Well, nothing exciting is happening right now, so I'm sorry for you readers, but I'm so content for our family... especially because these "down" times don't usually last long for us.

May the Lord bless us all as we start the new year. :)

partying from Christmas into the new year

2009-12-29T20:35:00.005-07:00

"Just give me the names of your closest friends out here." I was not expecting the list of thirty-eight people! But not everyone was able to come, so we barely got over thirty folks that came to Trey and Katy's Christmas party. It was wonderful to see them all have a good time...and I didn't have to worry about anything since we hosted it. :)Their party was on Monday. Tuesday was carolling. Wednesday was nothing!! Thursday, we had a lady come for dinner, and then we all went to the candlelight service. (Our family sang the "Coventry Carol." It was the first time John and Randy sang in public with us, so I was pretty excited.) Christmas was spent at home for most of the day, and then we ran over to some new friends' house for Christmas dinner. The kids played games, and we all enjoyed learning about each other as well as savoring a delectable dinner.This week is a bit easier. Monday the kiddos went ice skating with some friends. Tonight we had a family over for dinner. Tomorrow John and Randy have six boys coming for lunch and games, while Katy and Trey bowl with friends. New Year's Eve will probably be spent with our sweet neighbors. Friday night Katy has a bachelorette party to attend, and we all will go to the wedding on Saturday.

Then the gruelling day-to-day life will resume next week. It's a good thing that we had a couple weeks of rest and relaxation... ;)

[By the way, my tree was re-filled with ornaments thanks to friends in Colorado, Georgia, North Carolina, West Virginia, and even Okinawa. I am forever grateful.]

PS Here are the boys' party and the wedding. What a great ending and a great beginning!!

makin' life easy

2009-12-29T20:07:00.004-07:00

Well, he turned 11 on the 19th of December.

What was so great, though, is how easy his birthday was. This year he wanted the neighbors over and a mountain of doughnuts instead of a cake. That's it. I could not have asked for anything easier than accommodating his wishes.

And most of the time, he is just like that. He tries to make things easier on others and quickly gives things away if he thinks those things would benefit or bring joy to someone else. That's one more characteristic about the boy that I am so thankful to see in him.

Happy birthday, Randy.

seasonal happenings

2009-12-15T12:35:00.009-07:00

First, I forgot to mention that we had a wonderful time with our friends at their house for Thanksgiving. Thanks MJ and Dan!!!

Secondly, the day after Thanksgiving we went with folks from church to work in the Operation Christmas Child warehouse in Denver. We ate at IHOP following our shift, and we had GREAT FUN being together.Thirdly, we were able to squeeze in a visit with our friends before they headed back to NC. We met the newest member of their family and spent the evening catching up at McClellan's. =)

We next embarked on what will surely be a new tradition as we headed to Georgetown, CO, with some friends to drink in their Christmas Market and festivities. What a quaint town! But I can honestly now say that I do NOT enjoy "chestnuts roasting on an open fire." (Click on any pictures to enlarge them!)Finally, Trey and Katy can say that one of the worst Christmas traditions for them is over: the Christmas piano recital. They both did fine, but Trey's hands could not stop shaking (poor guy). They do love their piano teacher, though...who just happens to be a family friend.

OK. Now that the update is complete, I can begin to get ready for the busy part of the season...

hard to grow up

2009-12-11T09:25:00.002-07:00

I thought about using "hard on my boy" as a title, but I guess this better captures the reality of the situation.

Trey applied to some elite places for college, and he has received a couple rejection notices already. He also got an acceptance letter, but that doesn't take away the disappointment he felt when Duke said, "No," as that was his first choice.

It's difficult, after you research and knock on so many doors, to wait on the Lord to shut some and (hopefully) open some. Especially when the one you want does not want you. He's handling it OK, but it appears to be the beginning of his transition out of under our care. There's nothing more we (his parents) can do, and he must shoulder the situation as best as he can. It's hard for us to watch him go through this by himself, but he will never truly be alone or carry these burdens alone even after he moves out of our home. God promises that He will never leave or forsake Trey, and that nothing can separate Trey from the love of Christ...and that is MUCH better care than what Lee or I could ever give him.

grey skies

2009-12-08T09:17:00.003-07:00

And we're expecting a couple more inches today, too. :)

roadtrips rule!

2009-12-06T21:37:00.008-07:00

It's easy to pack for just an over-nighter, right? Actually this was pretty easy going.

We took off about 7:45 AM on Friday to make a quick dash to South Dakota to see Mount Rushmore. I know it sounds impulsive, but we had been planning this trip for quite a while. This was one of those "let's see if there's SOME way to squeeze it in while we're here" ideas, and this weekend, if the weather would hold out, was going to be it.The drive was amazing, as Wyoming and South Dakota were like nothing we'd seen before. The wind in Wyoming was borderline terrifying and thrilling, and the scenery was spectacular. We saw giant herds of Pronghorn and a couple enormous bald eagles. Cattle, horses, bison, and even sheep were all around. The Black Hills of SD were gorgeous and enticing. The Big Horn Sheep surprised us because they let us pull the van right next to them while they continued to graze. (By the way, they look like they are ALL muscle and horns...)Mount Rushmore was beautiful, and we were so glad for the opportunity to see it with our own eyes. The kids were fascinated, but, boy, was it cold! We also cruised over to see the ongoing work on the Crazy Horse sculpture. We spent the night in Rapid City and stayed at the Hotel Alex Johnson where six presidents have stayed. (Because our heater wasn't that great and the kids shower didn't work well, I kidded around with Lee and told him it hadn't been updated since Calvin Coolidge had stayed there...) We ate at the Firehouse Brewery and enjoyed the old-town feel with all the city's festive decorations.We took a few pictures of the bronze statues that graced each corner - presidents, native Americans, legends. Then it was time to head home and try to beat the incoming snowstorm. We listened to (and sang with) Christmas music as well as quoted Christmas movies all the way home. It was a great time for the whole family.Thank you, Lord, for giving us such happy memories. :) (And, as always, click on the pictures if you'd like to see them enlarged.)

a sad beginning

2009-12-01T09:36:00.004-07:00

Opening Christmas boxes with that nostalgic feeling (that you are about to greet old friends) as treasured memories re-emerge, like they do every year, was one of the highlights of the Christmas season to me. This year, though, my heart sank as I realized that the ornaments that evoke such grand memories are gone. It appears that the carefully wrapped decorations for our tree did not make it off the moving truck last February when we moved a few streets down due to base housing renovations.

Needless to say, I was absolutely ransacking the house as my despair overwhelmed me and I constantly had to fight back tears. It's not that I forgot the true meaning of Christmas, but twenty years of ornaments that reminded us of sweet folks God put in our lives along the way (some now passed away) as well as crafts made by the kiddos when they were small are now all gone.

A few days have passed since the discovery, and I'm not as sad as I was. Time helps heal some things, and my neighbor carting me to thrift stores yesterday to re-stock the tree helped lift my spirits. Promises from friends and family to add to our collection have given us joyful anticipation, too. This could still be a great Christmas season...

And today the Christmas lights are on, Vince Guaraldi (Charlie Brown Christmas) music is playing, and snow is falling outside. The beginning of something is not the totality of the experience, and I'm thankful for that.

thanks in hard times

2009-11-25T08:06:00.003-07:00

The last few weeks have given our family much to think about. The whirlwind of the musical and all the harsh stressors that come with it were just the tip of the iceberg. There was also something unspoken weighing on us. And then I learned that my mother in Massachusetts has Pick's Disease, which is terminal and cannot be slowed down. The worst part is that I don't know her to be a Christian, and I desperately want to know that we will be reunited in heaven with each other and be with the One who died to save sinners like me. We also found out that none of our cadets or friends are going to come for Thanksgiving, which meant we'd have a very different Thanksgiving celebration then in almost all the years past. And then Lee got hurt while playing basketball with the boys on Saturday, which put him in a knee brace and on crutches. (It might be a torn ACL, but we have to wait for the swelling to go down before they can do an MRI.)

So, the last few weeks have been a difficult test to "take every thought captive for Christ."

Today I determined to concentrate on what I'm thankful for and concentrate on God's great provisions for us:

I am thankful the play went well and that we made a host of new friends.
I am SO thankful that the unspoken concern was resolved.
I am thankful my mother is not gone yet and that I have a little time to continue to share the gospel with her and to pray for her.
I am thankful our cadets will get to be with their families this Thanksgiving.
I am thankful that a family from church invited us over for Thanksgiving dinner.
I am thankful Lee's injury wasn't any worse, that it was his left knee so he can still drive, and that he will recover.
I am thankful that my God will never leave me nor forsake me even when my mind is perplexed by many rough situations. He does not lose control and will use all things for our good and His glory. I am thankful He truly is a good God.

May God bless you this Thanksgiving, too. :)

oh! the shame...

2009-11-20T09:26:00.002-07:00

If you came over right now, I'd have to talk to you outside because you most certainly would NOT be allowed to enter. It's true: my house hasn't been this cluttered, dirty, blotchy, careless, chaotic, confused, disheveled, disordered, disorganized, grimy, grubby, littered, messy, muddled, raunchy, rumpled, slapdash, slipshod, sloppy, slovenly, unfastidious, unkempt, untidy...in a LONG time. (Get the picture?) Legos, books, papers and clothes litter my den; snow gear, bags of non-perishable food, dishes, and more books and papers have taken over the kitchen and dining rooms.

"Calgon, take me away!" (Didn't work...)

I thought that since the play has been over for almost a week, I'd be able to get the ole homestead back in shape. But an amazing thing occurred: life kept moving forward without any intention of pausing. :( We have to continue school for a variety of reasons, and now we also have to start preparations for Christmas (ie: purchasing gifts), along with all the daily living like food preparation, grocery shopping, piano lessons, etc. Crazy, huh? I hope that by tomorrow night, with extra effort on all our parts, we can reclaim our home. Then we could invite you in for some tea or coffee when you come for a visit. :)

some things never change

2009-11-15T16:48:00.002-07:00

We ran across this old photo and laughed so hard!!! Can you believe it? Not too different from this year's photo five entries ago...

gone to their heads

2009-11-13T10:49:00.009-07:00

With all the time the cast has spent together, the younger boys have enjoyed the camaraderie as much as anyone. Randy, who believed all girls to have cooties until this production, is currently smitten with Maggie, who plays Jane Bennet. He asked for her address in order to 'stay in touch,' and when she handed it to him, he spun around and exclaimed, "What? There's no phone number!" She immediately rectified the situation.

Bekah, who plays Elizabeth, has a fondness for John, but I'm afraid he enjoys the attention from all the girls way too much...

And, just so Trey wouldn't feel left out...
Will life ever be the same again? :)

6 performances down...

2009-11-10T10:12:00.002-07:00

and 6 more to go! (And we are all SO tired.)

no pictures, please

2009-11-04T10:55:00.005-07:00

Last night was the final dress rehearsal. I took pictures since they won't allow it during the real performances.(click on the pictures to enlarge)It was way too long, and the set changes were shoddy, but I hope they get the rhythm down tonight and pull off a great opening night. Break a leg, Katy, John, and Randy!! (And I hope working the spot light goes well for you, Trey!)

Newsboys!

2009-11-03T00:41:00.005-07:00

Trey and I had a great time at the concert tonight. We enjoyed front row seats and fantastic music...and time together. :)

strange mix

2009-11-01T20:35:00.002-07:00

What would bring a colonial gentleman, Jane Eyre, Earth, Wind and Fire's biggest fan, and Martin Luther together? Halloween, of course! (And Lee did a great job on our Charlie Brown pumpkin, too.)

only drifts left

2009-10-30T08:41:00.006-06:00

storm approaching

2009-10-28T08:05:00.004-06:00

We know it's coming. Right now there is only a light dusting, but we are supposed to get between 6 and 18" of snow in the next 24 hours. (I think it'll only be six, as the Academy is next to the mountain, so we don't see as much as the city.) The commissary shelves are empty already, so I'll be venturing out into town to scrounge up a few things before it really starts to hit this afternoon. I'm really bummed, though, that I wasn't able to capture the deer on film that were grazing by the neighbor's house. They are huge this time of year and gorgeous to watch with the snow swirling all about them.

The Pride and Prejudice musical begins next week and runs for ten days. Trey will work the spotlight, and Katy, John, and Randy are all in it. The kids are excited, but it'll be hard on everyone - with more nervousness and less sleep. It will be nice when the pressure is off, but I am looking forward to watching the how God uses this in all our lives.

God is so good about employing these storms to unmask great beauty and strength that He had already placed before us, that we thought we truly already appreciated until the contrasts made the picture more vivid. I don't look forward to the storms, but I know God utilizes all things for His glory and our good. Whew! :)

twinkle toes

2009-10-17T11:06:00.003-06:00

I think he would hate to know that I refer to him as "twinkle toes," but Jeff Hajner has got to be one of the best hockey players out there. I love his footwork on the ice, and he always makes sure the Air Force hockey team provides a good show - whether by his unfathomable shots or his multiple times in the penalty box throwing fits. (Last night he scored twice and only ended up in the box once!)

Someone asked me last night if I liked him because he was a great player or because he was often in trouble. I said it's because he's feisty. He plays hard and puts every ounce of himself into the game when they play. But then I started wondering about why I even like hockey. After all, it's tense and fast-paced through the whole game, and often times it's pretty brutal. But -oh!- the talent! I admire the speed and quick thinking and eyes-like-a-hawk that are mandatory for hockey players. Sure, they have to be tough, too, but they have to be skilled. And Twinkle Toes looks like he's going to have a good year, though the Falcons aren't doing so well as a team. Maybe they'll catch some of his energy and turn their season around. Go #26!!!

ice, ice, baby

2009-10-13T08:12:00.002-06:00

Lee and the kids froze at the Air Force football game on Saturday night, but they enjoyed the game, nonetheless. I stayed home and watched Bob Hope and Bing Crosby's "On the Road to Morocco." :)

It was amazing to see the ice everywhere this weekend; it was beautiful. It covered each blade of grass and each pine needle. Fortunately the roads weren't too bad.

We brought three cadets home with us after church on Sunday. It was too cold and icy to go out, so the afternoon was full of Monopoly and card games. The cadets stayed overnight, and we ate, watched movies, played video games, ate some more, etc. It was great fun for the kids to have the company to talk and play with, and Lee and I enjoyed staying up late chatting with them.
Now the company is gone as well as the ice. We must return back to the normal work days until Friday - hockey!!!

adjustments

2009-10-10T08:10:00.004-06:00

Most of my blog friends have given up their blogs for Facebook. While I understand the convenience factor, I really miss the details found in their stories. In a way, I feel like I miss my friends more than I used to even though they FB regularly. I guess it's the specifics that give the content of what is really happening in their lives, so thanks to those of you who are still blogging when you can.

Another transformation that has occurred out here is the weather. I think fall lasted two days, and now we're into winter. Fall will visit periodically out here in CO throughout the next few months, mind you, but without the glory of the changing leaves. It was SO short this year. Snow comes and goes all within a few hours. Tonight it's supposed to snow during the football game that Lee and the kids are going to attend. (I'm not going because I don't believe in freezing for sports...it goes against my morals.) Oh, brother - it's flurrying now! But I am learning to adjust to all of this: bring out the sweaters and hot chocolate!!
We are enjoying the new cadets we are sponsoring this year. We had three over last Sunday and expect them this Sunday to come and spend the night. Oh, yeah, we needed the extra folks - life is so boring at our house. ;)

So, I hope you enjoy your week and your weather. God bless.

off to the ball

2009-10-04T16:53:00.002-06:00

(click to view pics larger)
We had a nice time at the 2009 Navy Ball, but I think last year's was much better. We were fortunate that Navy beat Air Force in football, though, or everyone would have been really down. Katy looked beautiful, and both Lee and Trey were handsome. Having the two kiddos with us made for a memorable evening. :)

just a highlight

2009-09-29T16:07:00.002-06:00

Between another interview for Trey in Denver, rehearsal for Katy and John, and then an afternoon regency dance (also for Katy and John to attend), one might think that would be enough for a Saturday. However, this last Saturday we also found time to make a chilli casserole and cornbread and head on over to an annual barn dance hosted by friends from church. The kids enjoyed dancing with friends and feasting on great food, and Randy even enjoyed catching toads. (Yuk!)

more tidbits of this week

2009-09-25T08:36:00.010-06:00

The snow at the beginning of the week turned into freezing rain. It's getting a little warmer daily, but hot tea, soothing music, and lit candles provided a cozy atmosphere inside in the meantime.

Getting the kids to concentrate on school has been difficult with the house outside our dining room window getting torn down. The noise is bad enough, but our home shakes periodically as the demolition continues.

Thankfully, some friends are helping with the costumes for the Pride and Prejudice musical that the younger three are in, or I'd be in some deep trouble. Simple hemming and sewing are not difficult, but period costumes are a different story!

Though there will be (shockingly enough) a lot going on this weekend, it isn't overwhelming. I hope you have a great weekend, too!

i don't want to share

2009-09-24T08:12:00.002-06:00

When our son decided he was going to apply to several schools, including one service academy, and scholarships, we knew we were in for a lot of paperwork. We just didn't know how much.

Between interviews, applications, essays, physical fitness tests, recommendation letters from "outside the home" teachers as well as folks who've known him for a while, the boy has barely enough time for his full load of school work. So, Lee and I have been helping him out with some of the no-brainer parts of the applications (name, address, etc.). Surprisingly enough, we are all overwhelmed with the process. I guess it's because we already have our own commitments for this semester, so finding the extra time it takes to get these things done (as perfectly as possible, too) is difficult. Sometimes I just want to throw my hands up and tell him to narrow it down to two schools - and not the service academy which requires individual applications to senators, congressmen, the VP and Pres.

But then I remember that we've been encouraging him to knock on many doors and see which ones God opens. It will be exciting to see where he ends up and how it will all unfold. In the meantime, I guess we have to practice what we preach - sacrifice yourself for others, even if we aren't thrilled about sharing the workload.

do you see what i see?

2009-09-21T11:37:00.004-06:00

Well, as one gentleman at the gym put it, "I think we can safely say that this will be the last snow of summer." I'll let you know later if we end up with any accumulation...we're most definitely not down South any more.

what insight!

2009-09-18T23:04:00.003-06:00

I about burst when I read about how my niece with autism describes "her world." Apparently some of it came from a children's movie, but her answer was great. Shared by Amy:

The other day my mom asked Caroline what it was like in her world. Caroline said, "In my world we are all animals. We eat rainbows and poop butterflies." Well, that explains a lot.

Gotta' love that sweet Caroline! :)

looking for a change

2009-09-15T08:14:00.004-06:00

I've been feeling the time crunch lately...

Lee retires in less than two years, and I'd love to have my Masters by then. I've been looking into it, found that it's possible, but I know it wouldn't be prudent before the new year...and that's if I can get the financial stuff worked out. (We don't want any debt when we retire.)

In the meantime, we don't have as much going on this week as last week, so we're getting better at having a routine. :) And it's been a little cooler, too. You know what that means? Yep: I'm in the mood for fall to get here! I've got a new "harvest" candle that smells heavenly and fresh, autumn-looking flowers on the table. The change of seasons is always exciting to me for some reason, and fall is my favorite. It appears that this week might be a great one...

privileged

2009-09-11T21:10:00.002-06:00

Tonight I had the wonderful privilege of taking three of my Sunday school girls from last year out to dinner at Red Robin. These quiet girls were so excited and talked the evening away in quick, quiet streams of stories and laughter. It was a sweet way to "promote" them to the next grade and enjoy their company one more time. May God keep these girls close to Him throughout their lives.

squeezin'

2009-09-09T08:16:00.003-06:00

Lately I have been thinking that our new motto is: how much can we squeeze into a day?
Thursday- school, commissary run, clean house, Trey's 1st meeting at the Air Force Academy
Friday- school, piano lessons, out-of-town visitors (So good to see you all!)
Saturday- Trey's driving test, clean hose, Doolies and families (11 folks in all)over for dessert
Sunday- church, friends over for dinner
Monday- go through kids' clothes, make fall list, shop for some of the items, play rehearsal for Katy and John
Tuesday- school, quick clean, have church friends who are moving to Germany over for dinner
Today- Trey's college classes, school, Trey's BIG interview at the Academy...

You get the picture. There's not much "down time" around here, and, of course, the rest of the week's schedule is just as bad. I do think, though, that we are finally getting to the point that we realize and will put into practice what we've known to be true for some time: we have to slow down a bit! There's just an obvious lack of joy and increase of frustration when we're always rushing. Though we already have commitments through Sunday, the week after that looks promising. So, that is my latest goal. I will attempt to keep next week free from any extra commitments/activities. It might not sound too difficult, but it will take some major focusing on my part. It's officially time to squeeze in some relaxation into our days! ;)

last of summer

2009-09-03T08:37:00.008-06:00

Our camping trip last weekend (that consisted of only 24 hours) was a great success for the kids, their friends, and Lee. I, however, managed to almost freeze to death. Fortunately, time with the family and guests and the breathtaking scenery outweighed the discomforts...though I still would have liked to camp out in a Hampton Inn instead! (click on pics to enlarge)You can tell summer is all but over on base, as the crab apple trees are dropping their fruit which brings deer into the 'hood. There aren't as many this year, though, which I think is because of all the on-base construction. I'll just enjoy what we get...

got to go...phers

2009-08-26T08:37:00.003-06:00

OK. I really should have called a while back when the boys started sinking into and tripping over the tunnels, but I've been a little busy. But now I can't handle the MANY mounds of dirt all over the yard and the rodents' heads popping up constantly. (EEWWW!!!) The boys wanted to take their Air Soft guns out to deal with the problem, but I think professionals might have a better solution...I hope!

smells like beans

2009-08-21T07:02:00.002-06:00

As much as our family likes burritos, I have second thoughts about making them every time the beans perfume my home from the crock pot with a very distinct smell. Not good. And it does NOT go well with my morning coffee.

But I remind myself how inexpensive the meal is for our family and how much everyone loves this meal...and that the house does air out after a while. :)

It's Friday, folks! I'm still plowing through lesson plans for school, but there's a giddy happiness Fridays bring, especially when it's beautiful outside. Thank you, Lord.

the day is done

2009-08-15T21:17:00.005-06:00

We couldn't do a lot this week due to being under the weather. (Though one day our guests and Katy got to visit Manitou Springs and Garden of the Gods, and later we all went to the zoo.) But today was different.

We had to say goodbye to Katy's dear friend from NC. We picked Katy and her up from a birthday celebration slumber party (where little sleeping took place) and drove to the airport. It was sad to say goodbye, but the week-long visit was oh-so-sweet while it lasted.

Then we started on our CO tour. We went to see Mt. Elbert and enjoyed some magnificent scenery along the way. We came home along a different route and made a pit-stop in Vail to pick up some fuel (a.k.a. coffee). We'd never been there before but can now understand why everyone loves it... it's gorgeous. And it's only summertime!

We saw lots of pronghorn today, as well as some buffalo and bighorn sheep. I think, though, that the different landscapes that the state has to offer left the biggest impression on Trey's friend from FL. It was amazingly beautiful.It was a long day, but there's a certain satisfaction in being awed for most of it. (Even when everyone got supper around 9:00 pm.)

sweet sixteen

2009-08-12T14:19:00.002-06:00

Saturday, Katy turned sixteen. Her big birthday party won't be held until this next Friday, since she and another girl are having a double b-day party and inviting all the teenage girls from church. So, we were going to have a low-key celebration at home on Saturday evening...or so she thought. Katy's great friend flew in from NC as a surprise present. (She used to live in Israel, and Kate visited her there over a year ago.) Katy opened the door for a wonderful birthday surprise, and they've been having a great time ever since.But it's still hard to believe my beautiful baby is 16.

home from the party

2009-08-08T21:33:00.008-06:00

Well, we drove through the night to get Trey in MS after some car trouble delayed our start. We had a blast visiting my aunt, cousin and his wife.
The next stop was AL where we saw LOTS of relatives on both sides of the family. Family seems to become more dear as time goes by, and our time with them was fun and meaningful. Fishing, swimming, having a tea party, bowling, watching old movies, exploring a science museum, and lots of eating kept us from any chance of boredom. We also had a sweet reunion with a couple high school classmates of mine.
Last stop was GA where the boys' former commanding officer from the Havelock Young Marines was surprised to see how much the boys had grown. We had a great time with him and his wife. And, of course, we had the Wichterself reunion which gets better every time our families are together. We danced and laughed almost the whole time we were there, except at the lake or pool...then we just cracked jokes and sang. Never a dull moment when all 15 of us were in the house. :)
Though we drove back through the night in order to get to a meeting on time, we at least had an extra driver since Trey was with us. It was a wonderful vacation...I'm beat.

on the go...to gone

2009-07-16T15:07:00.002-06:00

Well, we're trying to be on the road by 6:00am. We have a busy trip to the South to pick up Trey and visit with family and friends.

But, getting ready for next year's school is taking a LOT of time. We found out that we could go through a certain program in CO, and Trey's few college courses would be paid for by the school district. Yippee! But of course that called for tons of running around with the right forms to different offices. But that should free up some money.

That is, we thought it would until we took the van in yesterday for a tire rotation and oil change and found out there were some major brake and strut problems... So costly, but we are SO thankful that God provided the money via the school district. :)

Well, we'll be back in three weeks from our trip. I'm not sure if I'll post while out of town, but I hope your three weeks goes well. God bless.

little John

2009-07-10T09:13:00.005-06:00

The smallest of the four, John showed up at 1:15AM on July 10, 1997, weighing a mere 8lbs.6oz. I thought something was terribly wrong with him since the first two were 9lbs.9oz., and he was so tiny. Then the nurse explained that this was how normal-sized infants looked. Whew!

Today we will celebrate his 12th birthday. He has always been the most passionate of the four kiddos. His care for all people in his life is sincere, especially their spiritual well-being. He loves to read and help with young children. As of now, he hopes to be in the Marines and have a large family when he's an adult.

Over the last year, he has become more responsible and self-motivated. One of his duties is taking care of Pippin.
He's also started developing a deeper friendship with Randy and has become quite the comedian. With the help of Lee's desire for fruit this morning, John's "peach-fuzz" growth was jump-started.

We love you John and can't imagine our world without you!! Happy Birthday!!

20 down, as many more to go as possible!

2009-07-06T13:03:00.006-06:00

It always seems to happen while I'm cooking: I get "attacked" with hugs and kisses from Lee while the little boys send up a chorus of "yuck!" and the older ones roll their eyes. Lots of things become "normal" in each family as the habits are formed...

I've been thinking about our twentieth anniversary for the last few days with amazement. Lee and I married in pretty bad circumstances. Rebels on the rebound usually don't have good endings to their stories, but Lee and I were friends before we dated, and I think that helped. Basically, though, God worked it all out and gave us much more than we could've imagined - we're committed to each other AND happy about it. It reminds me of that old song that says, "I'm so happy to be stuck with you!"

Well, on this special anniversary, my honey made all the arrangements by himself. He booked a wonderful room in a beautiful bed & breakfast in Canon City. We enjoyed dinner and also a drive on the scenic Skyline Drive.On Saturday, we went to the Holy Cross Abbey to do some wine tasting at the winery. The atmoshere at the local diner was great as we waited out an afternoon storm. Then it was time: we had dinner on the Royal Gorge Railroad. The spectacular tour took three hours, and the meal was superb. Mostly, I enjoyed the company of a most handsome and loving man.

time well spent

2009-07-06T12:50:00.004-06:00

Well, we enjoyed our visit with Amy and the girls and tried to squeeze a lot into a few days. The day they arrived, we stayed around the house and the kids played in the neighbors' pool. We spent the next day at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.Wednesday brought a trip to the commissary, and it stormed in the afternoon which kept us mostly at home. That left our last day together to squeeze in both Garden of the Gods and America the Beautiful Park. Fortunately we were able to enjoy both.It was a great visit!

when it's hard

2009-07-01T20:35:00.003-06:00

Amy and our two nieces are here for a short visit. The younger niece has Pervasive Developmental Disorder (not otherwise specified with Autistic characteristics and sensory integration disorder). There's a lot to her, and it's difficult to even imagine how my former-sis-in-law, dear friend, and sister in Christ can do all that she does (especially when there's a "melt down"). I know it wears her down, but she works with both girls so carefully and diligently. Perfectly? She'd be the first to admit that she isn't, but it's pretty easy to see the Lord holding her up and keeping her strong, whether she feels like it or not. My hat is off to you, Amy. And, as Katy says it, "She is absolutely amazing!"

thinking it through

2009-06-23T19:50:00.003-06:00

I recently read a totally sad blog entry that "justified" having an affair and just getting a divorce when you "fall out of love." Besides being horrified, outraged and mystified, I finally found myself feeling deep pity for this man. He is not a Christian and therefore does not have the same foundation for beliefs that I do. (Although the law is written on every man's heart...we are without excuse.)

Anyway, Katy and I recently talked about infatuations and love. We talked about falling in love and how the feelings can come and go, but how married folks can pursue those feelings and pray for those feelings to return when they see them start to diminish. We discussed being on the alert and guarding our hearts before and after marriage, testing all our feelings against the Word, as our hearts are deceitful and desperately wicked. Though the talk was deep, you can imagine what joy I felt knowing that she was thinking through her experiences and what she's heard about. There are choices she'll have to make, and the consequences will depend on her beliefs and actions.

Unlike the man mentioned earlier, I don't think falling out of love with your spouse and having an affair just happens. I think it starts with lingering on an unrighteous thought, and then the destruction starts. Lee and I could have found TONS of reasons to split up (we are two major sinners, you know), but God has graciously kept us from those things. In 12 days we will celebrate twenty years of marriage. Now that's a miracle!

PS The band Casting Crowns, I think, has a good grasp on this subject if you'd like to cut and paste the following to see their video...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n-8SYA6rfbs

loved the heat

2009-06-18T09:22:00.009-06:00

Leaving on a Friday and only stopping for three hours of sleep, our family, sans Trey, made it from Colorado Springs to Annapolis in 34 hours. Exhausted but in great spirits, we ended up at the Amedick's house. We had not told Katy that she was going to stay with these wonderful friends, but she had been wishing it and had been hopeful we'd at least get to visit them since they lived so close to D.C. where Lee's class was being held.We rested up, said goodbye to Katy, and headed off to Ft. Belvoir where the boys, the bird (did I mention he came, too?), and I would be staying with the Martineaus. Just seeing these two families that we'd known from our church in North Carolina made the long trip worthwhile.Of course, we did go back into Annapolis to visit the Naval Academy. What a beautiful campus and city! John Paul Jones' crypt was closed that day, so Lee and I went back later with the boys to see it.Nancy and I took the kids to D.C. to visit the Smithsonian American Indian and Air and Space Museums.The next day, the boys and I took the Metro into downtown D.C. We were less than a block away from the Holocaust Memorial when the shooting happened, so we were thankful to not be "at the wrong place at the wrong time." We did walk to the White House and to the Lincoln Memorial and all the war memorials. {I wonder how many of the quotes and reflections and honors we read about could be embraced by our country now, as the culture shuns sacrificing for others and dependence on God.} We had lunch by Constitution Lake and went back to the Air and Space Museum. Lots of walking and pondering!!Nancy and I took the kiddos to Mt. Vernon on a hot, muggy Thursday...I loved it! I'd really missed the heat and humidity in the cold, arid West. Oh - I loved Washington's home, too. ;)So, after two weeks of being with great folks and seeing extraordinary sights, it was time to go home. We took 37 hours on the return trip, splurging with almost six hours of sleep. And, though the weather was beautiful most of the way, the last part of Kansas and Eastern Colorado left us checking the clouds for a tornado to jump out of the waves of rain at any point. We praise God for safety on our great trip!

eight excerpts

2009-05-25T12:42:00.012-06:00

I couldn't take time to blog this last week because we seemed to always be on the run and inundated with occupations ranging from registering Trey for some fall college classes to helping some friends with with a memorial service and dinner. So, instead of writing about everything, I've decided to give eight blurbs about last week, and most have accompanying pictures.

1) Last Saturday we had Trey and Kate's recital. Katy did not mess up, and Trey - due to reading a little too far ahead - covered his mistake admirably.
2) The beginning of the week was warm, so the boys celebrated with fresh strawberries and a run through the sprinkler.
3) The good weather was short-lived and the cold and rain settled into the area. I guess all the errands and housework caught up to me a bit one dreary afternoon...
4) Though we prefer warm, sunny weather, the clouds out here make you feel like you live in a movie; it's all very C.G.-esque.
5) Katy had her first understudy read-through and had a wonderful time. Our big surprise was when we got a phone call asking if John could play young Mr. Darcy in one of the scenes. He's thrilled!

6) After actually completing all of his schoolwork on time, Trey spent the last two days preparing for his trip to MS to work as a horse wrangler over the summer. We took the kiddos out for ice cream before dropping Katy off with friends, as she worked the weekend cleaning up a camp as a volunteer. The next day Trey was on his plane...very sad for those of us left behind.
Of course, he left us with a good chuckle before he left. He was getting a buzz cut and decided to get pictures taken before the top was finished. Bling bling, baby!
7) John was pitcher in his Saturday game and did really well with some great strikeouts. Then he played catcher for the last couple innings. Randy was their first baseman and did well, also. One inning, he made all three outs. :)
8) Lastly, Saturday evening Randy noticed tiles at the bottom of the stairs buckling. I looked in Katy's closet, which is under the stairwell and next to the downstairs bathroom, only to find mold growing on the wall and baseboards. You remember the leak we've been having problems with? Well, maintenance finally found it after cutting out some walls and part of a supporting beam. It seems that the renovators forgot to connect/seal the drain in my shower to the pipe. Now they'll have to clean all this up this next week. Amazing... At least they found the leak!

it's not easy getting shot

2009-05-19T10:28:00.002-06:00

Well, the consult went OK. Trey is scheduled for the first of his shots on Thursday. They are going to inject the worst of his herniated discs with cortisone, but they have to get it from the sides because of the positions of the vertebrae, etc. They'll do the other four when he returns from MS in August. Trey is also on a couple medications for the next three months that should help keep the inflammation down. Then he'll be weaned off the meds in time for his physicals in autumn for the Air Force and Marine scholarships. The doctor is pretty sure that the injections and meds should get everything back into correct form. Now it's all about waiting patiently as God shows us His plan...

PS Jess, He hurt his back weight lifting and doing Krav Maga (Israeli martial arts) the next day. That was in mid-February.

not quite time, but almost

2009-05-15T08:10:00.002-06:00

In church senior high choir, we sang a spiritual called "Ain't Got Time to Die." (Lee had the solo. :) ) And I'm hoping our camera feels the same way. We've had it for years, but with baseball season upon us, a two week trip to DC coming up, and a three week trip this summer to visit family and friends down South, we definitely are hoping the camera pulls through and waits until next winter to kick the bucket. It is starting to show signs that the end is near, though, as it gets stuck in certain positions and has a difficult time starting up. Please, just hang on...

Speaking of hanging on, Trey has just one more week of school. He still owes me his ten-page-paper - 1 1/2 pages and a bibliography left -, a couple more pre-cal and advanced biology lessons and tests, and he has to finish Jane Eyre. His consult for his back is Monday, and hopefully he'll get his shots on cortisone Thursday. This Saturday, he and Kate have their piano recital. Busy is he, but Trey's almost free to fly away in eight days to his job in Mississippi for the summer. Ah, light at the end of the tunnel!

Katy is going to get her script soon to memorize over the summer. She is the understudy for one of Bingley's sisters, so she'll have a bit more to memorize, but she's such a quick study.

The boys have been enjoying baseball practice and being on the same team (finally!). They both have two main positions. Randy is first base and pitcher; John plays pitcher and catcher. They'll miss a lot of games, however, with the DC trip. We would not have signed them up if we had known, but the community center keeps changing the schedule. Oh, well; it'll be time for at least a few games pretty soon.

my, oh, my...

2009-05-05T21:55:00.002-06:00

Could we really get a spring season out here after all the cold and dreary?

act 1

2009-05-04T13:45:00.004-06:00

Katy got picked to be part of the ensemble cast for Pride and Prejudice!! We are so thrilled for her, though now we get to pay for costumes and English Country Dance lessons. The show will have fourteen performances. It's going to be a long road to travel before closing night, but I know Katy will love being a part of it. And Katy heard that there were tens more than forty that tried out, and only twenty-something even made the call-back.
Way to go, Sweetie-pie!

PS Here's to Trey's 17th birthday and ice skating, to hanging with some church youth at Barnes and Noble because the baseball game was rained out, and to John eating some french toast even when he's still feeling puny.

unpredictable, and still waiting

2009-05-02T09:11:00.002-06:00

We finally got the MRI results: Trey has multiple slightly herniated discs. We have to wait on our military insurance to approve the spinal cortisone injections that he needs, which takes 10-12 working days. The tricky part? Then we have to wait for whatever appointment(s) he can get...and he is supposed to be on a plane on May 23rd to go to his job in Mississippi and won't return until August 9th.

Also, his condition automatically disqualifies him from his military aspirations (not to mention scholarships) that he's been pursuing, unless he can get a waiver. That requires complete remission of all symptoms by August when he'd have his physical and physical readiness test.

Needless to say, we are once again waiting on the Lord to see what He has in store for Trey. So please keep him in your prayers (timely medical care, healing, college decisions, scholarships, SAT score - which he is actually taking the test as I write this, and, mostly, peace that passes all understanding to guard his heart and his mind in Christ Jesus our Lord). No matter the outcome, we are grateful that God will not withhold any good thing from Trey, as He always knows what is best. :)

Thanks for praying with us for these things.

hate to wait

2009-04-28T07:49:00.002-06:00

Katy's call-back for the Pride and Prejudice audition is over. We won't hear anything for a week. We were disappointed that choir cut into the audition, so she only got to read one line from one scene and a few from another. I know the director had a lot of folks to go through, but it seemed the choir folks got short-changed a bit. Maybe it would have been better if the director would have scheduled the call-back on Tuesday instead? Oh, well. It's all in the Lord's hands anyway.

We are still waiting on Trey's MRI results. Maybe we'll hear something before the week is out. In the meantime, the boy turned seventeen today. We're going ice skating tonight after a little family party. It's hard to imagine that he'll be leaving for college in only one year. What a bummer for the rest of us. :(

And lastly, I'm waiting for some nice weather again. The snow yesterday was lovely, but now it's cold, wet, overcast and just plain dreary. My plants are waiting to be planted in the big pots instead of remaining in their cramped pots by the glass door...

Waiting isn't any fun. But it reminds me of Who is really in charge, and that is comforting since He withholds nothing good from His children. Whew!

taking advantage

2009-04-21T21:11:00.003-06:00

Today was gorgeous and finally felt like spring, so the kids felt like being productive and earning a little cash. No doubt it's because our garage was in desperate need of being swept that John, Randy, and our neighbor Jacob got the idea to charge folks $3 to sweep out neighbors' garages. I thought it was too much to ask, but there were some nice people who granted the young entrepreneurs some work. The kids made $9 to be split three ways...not bad.

Though I'm ready for the warmer weather (have been for quite a while), I will miss some of the sights of our belated winter. Thank the Lord for cameras!

new meaning to hole-in-one

2009-04-16T11:40:00.002-06:00

OK, so it didn't quite happen like this. Actually, Trey had Lee in a headlock and Lee squashed him into the wall. When will these boys settle down?!?!?

41 and lots o' fun

2009-04-15T21:09:00.003-06:00

Monday was Lee's 41st birthday. The kids and I purposefully didn't talk about it nor wish him a happy birthday because we had a small surprise party planned for him. He and I took Katy and Hannah to go up Pikes Peak on the cog railway, and, while we were gone, Trey baked the cake and all three of the boys decorated. We returned to a festive house, ready to party.

Katy and Hannah have really been enjoying being together again. Today we went to Garden of the Gods and went for a little hike. Though there were bear warnings in the area, we were glad not to have run into any during our walk. It was beautiful.

Thursday and Friday are supposed to bring more snow. It's funny to think about since it was in the 60's today. I've already bought some plants, but everyone is telling me to wait until late May before transplanting. I guess I'll have to wait so I won't lose them...