• Apr. 19, 2008
A Treasure Chest

I'd shared in a previous post that my parents recently put their house on the market.  They had exactly 2 private showings.  The second couple to walk though made an offer.  My parents accepted. 

God even dropped a fabulous rental home in their laps!  They get to live in it until their new home is built.  This gorgeous rental property, situated on a beautiful, large wooded lot, is going to feel like a 6-month vacation! 

Don'tcha just love it when God flings open the doors and pushes you through?  There is no doubt that He has orchestrated this entire move, and it's so exciting to think of the ministry opportunities and memories that await Dad and Mom in their new home. 

However, things have been happening much quicker than any of us had anticipated.  And we're all left with the task of sifting through nearly 32 years of memories. 

It's probably no secret that I'm a sentimental sap.  And my parents would be the first to say that I come by it honestly.  So it's understandable that the boxing up of my parents' belongings takes time...patience...sensitivity.  Afterall, it's not simply loading everything into a box, sealing it shut, and moving it to a new locale.  Nor is it filling a dumpster and starting over.  It's the remembering...it's the weighing of the past.  In some cases, it's the forgetting of the past; it's the moving on and pressing forward. 

I'd written in my previous entry that when it comes to letters and cards and notes, I'm a saver...as are my parents.  I found my mom sitting on the floor of my old bedroom yesterday, surrounded by years' worth of letters and pictures and poems.  She was reading them once again, determining what to keep and what to release. 

There was my orginal handwritten award-winning Mother's Day essay from 1983.  There was the poem my aunt had written the first Christmas my grandpa spent in heaven.  There were birthday cards and anniversary cards.  There was the tribute my dad read at my grandma's funeral.  There were cards announcing my pregnancies with our first two sons.  There was children's artwork and newspaper clippings of family achievements. 

There in my old room, sitting next to my mom, I felt like we'd unearthed a treasure chest.  I was struck by the love and history that surrounded us.  I was reminded of the family stories that span generations.  And I was newly grateful that my parents have modeled what it means to walk with Jesus.  Despite our sinfulness, failings, and shortcomings, they've shown us that God forgives; that He can be trusted; that there are no regrets in following Him; that He is worth it. 

I thank God for the memories, traditions, and everyday stuff of life that have pointed our eyes to Him over these past 32 years.  I hear the stories, I read the letters and poems, and I'm mindful that His grace has been sufficient for my parents and beyond.  And as I look ahead, I strongly desire that my life and my testimony are evidence of the same.  Oh, how I long for our boys to watch their dad and me and gain a strong sense of God's faithfulness.  Despite our mistakes and failures, I pray He uses us to reveal His love and grace.  And I pray that they will want to love Him back with their whole lives.

Oh, a house is just a house.  It will fade away.  But the Christ-centered traditions and memories will pass from generation to generation.  Oh, that we'd be faithful to tell those coming after us the glorious deeds of the Lord; that they would set their hope in Him and not forget His works, but keep His commandments. 

This is our prayer.

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• Jan. 24, 2008
Our Little Corner of the World

Though my blog has been somewhat quiet during this month of January, our home and our lives have been anything but.  Here's a bit of what's been happening in our little corner of the world...

Our boys continue to fill our lives with joy and excitement.  As I've often said, "There's never a dull moment!"  While our oldest son is basking in the glow of being a teenager (and the resulting privileges and responsibilities), our younger two sons continue to thrive, as well.  Our youngest son makes his acting debut in our church's children's musical this weekend.  Something tells me this performance will not be his last!  He doesn't have a shy bone in his body, and I'm confident that he will flourish in his new role!  Our middle son, a veteran, will make a return to the stage.  He is very meticulous in anything he attempts.  He really strives to do everything to the best of his ability.  I love watching this come out on the stage!  They are eager to be used of God as they communicate the story of Jonah.

Our middle son has embraced his new role of official cookie baker.  He inherited his dad's knack for making the most delicious chocolate chip cookies, and much to his delight, he is now able to make them entirely by himself.  It's become our Tuesday night tradition that he makes them after supper...and then we eat them while watching "Biggest Loser."  How twisted is that???  

Our middle son, displaying the fruits of his labor

As I mentioned, our youngest son is quite the character.  We never know what his next antic will be, and he loves to make people laugh.  Two years ago, my husband and I took a missions trip to Papua New Guinea.  We brought back various souvenirs for our boys, including a necklace made out of a boar tusk, a couple of handmade spears to hang on their wall, and a PNG flag.  Well, like I said...there's never a dull moment around here!  This is how our youngest son appeared on one recent day:

Our little tribal man.  He's holding the PNG flag in his other hand. 

Those of you who have read my blog for any length of time know that each February, Student Ministries sponsors a Sweetheart Banquet at church.  Not only does this include a meal, but a full evening of laughs, fellowship, and encouragement for marriages.  This 2-night event will be held next month, and needless to say, there are many, many details and preparations to be addressed.  We're so grateful for the team that pulls this event together.  Two of my friends oversee and direct the music and drama portion of the evening.  I handle the food, and together we all work on decorating.  This year's theme is a black and white formal, simply entitled, "Unforgettable."  Much more on that to come...

We're striving to invest these final weeks before our precious friends' move to a far-off state.  We really are trying to embrace the everyday stuff of life...the ordinary and extraordinary moments.   We have other friends who are missionaries.  We just said goodbye to one family as they returned to the field this week...it will likely be 4 years before we see them again.  Another dear family will return to the field in three weeks after a year furlough.  So many goodbyes lately.  Each one has me newly grateful that God has made us to be in relationship with one another.  The goodbyes are hard...the pain real and deep.  But with each goodbye, my heart is gladly set on heaven.  I long for the day when we'll be together with the Lord, singing praises to His glorious name.

That's just a brief, perhaps discombobulated, glimpse of the past few weeks and the thoughts whirling around my head and heart.  I'm thankful that in the midst of growth...the the midst of change...in the midst of busyness...our God is faithful.  He hasn't outgrown us.  He hasn't changed.  He's not too busy.  He is able and sufficient for every season and every need we face. 

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• Nov. 24, 2007
Washington D.C. ~ The Last 2 Days

I'm finally winding down my remembrances of Washington D.C...so if you've been bored by my entries over the past couple weeks, take heart!  There's a new day coming! 

Sunday, November 4

The Jefferson Memorial

The Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial

Our second son is a huge animal enthusiast, his favorite animal being the panda.  We had told him all along that it was highly unlikely that we would get to the National Zoo this trip, but my husband and I finally had a change of heart.  We realized that this was a rare opportunity to see our son's beloved pandas.  Even as we rode the Metro to the zoo, we didn't let our son in on our secret.  As we walked down the street, we didn't reveal to him our destination.  But as we got closer and closer, he got this hopeful, knowing grin on his face.  I'll forever cherish the memory of his face...how it lit up and how he tried to repress a smile as it dawned on him where we were actually going.  We arrived at the zoo and went directly to the pandas.  What a sweet moment as another of our son's dreams came true! 

Monday, November 5

We were eager to take a tour of the Bureau of Engraving & Printing, and while we weren't permitted to take any "behind the scenes" pictures of the making of millions of dollars, it was truly amazing!  Here's one of the few photos we were able to take in the gift shop area:

How tall are you in $100 notes?

The Library of Congress was truly impressive.  We just stared in awe and wonder at the gorgeous architecture.  We were further pleased to see a Gutenburg Bible on display.

Perhaps the memory most etched in my mind from our visit to this magnificent building was my tumble down the stairs.  In fact, looking at these pictures now, I'm pretty sure it was the staircase pictured directly above!  Anyhow, amidst the elegance, grandeur, and history of this building, I'll now always have a humble, klutzy, personal memory, as well! 

On this final day of our vacation, we made our way over to Union Station.  First we toured the National Postal Museum which was highly interactive and interesting.  We then went into Union Station to watch all the various comings and goings.  What a fascinating place! 

And believe it or not, that is the condensed version of our Washington D.C. vacation.  We are so thankful for the history that came alive to us during our stay.  We enjoyed multiple opportunities to learn about our past and grow in our understanding of it.  Our boys learned more about heroes...some from the distant past, some from the present...some from within their very own family.  I'm so very thankful that God used this trip to make lifelong impressions on each one of us.  I can say without reservation that we'll never be the same.

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• Nov. 20, 2007
Teenager In the House

We left for Washington D.C. in October; we returned home and it was November.

We left home with a 12-year-old; we returned home with a teenager.

Yes, our oldest son turned 13 while we were in Washington D.C.  I find myself staring at him often...so amazed that this handsome young man could possibly be my son. 

Prior to our son's birthday, my husband and I had written to several of the men in our son's life, asking them to write letters in honor of this milestone birthday.  We wanted to compile a scrapbook of letters from men our son looks up to and respects; letters that would challenge and encourage our son to honor God with his life; letters that would spur him on in his walk with Christ.

I was overwhelmed by the response.  We received letters from grandpas and uncles; pastors, former Sunday School teachers, & AWANA leaders; dads of his friends; current high school and college friends who are just a bit ahead of him in life. 

We presented him with his scrapbook on November 3.  I'm fully aware that at 13, this book likely will not mean as much now as it will a few years down the road.  But regardless, I'm thankful that our son has these wise words from men he respects:  men who are committed to God and to leading their families; men who have learned through their struggles; men who are daily being conformed into the image of Jesus Christ.  I'm thankful that our son has the examples of these men in his life; that he regularly sees what it means to live with passion and purpose; that through these men, he sees not "perfection," but a humility and a hunger to follow after God.

In celebration of his birthday, we went to a morning matinee of "The Bee Movie," followed by a visit to the International Spy Museum.  This was right up his alley!  We further celebrated with a visit to The Cheesecake Factory, where our son got the royal treatment with a birthday serenade from the wait-staff.  Long story short...this is one memory that will always make us laugh! 

And so, my son, I close this vacation remembrance by saying that your dad and I love you so much.  Nothing you could ever do will cause us to love you any more or any less.  You're growing and maturing and spreading your wings so quickly.  So often I wish I could stop time....or just make it slow down.  But still, I'm overjoyed to watch you becoming such an incredible young man.  God has gifted you with so many amazing talents...among them, leadership.  But as you've heard your dad say, a man leads by following...following passionately after Jesus Christ.  It's our delight to watch as you learn what it means to walk with Him.  We're learning, too, my son.  And we are here to pray with you and for you; to disciple, to train, to model; to walk with you as God's plan unfolds in your life.

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• Nov. 19, 2007
A Stroll Down Pennsylvania Avenue

Our sole plan and goal on Friday, November 2 was simply to stroll down Pennsylvania Avenue.  Though we had a couple must-see attractions on our list, FLEXIBILITY was our middle name!  No agenda, no time schedule...just a leisurely walk down the streets of history.

We began at the Capitol, walked past the Supreme Court, and onward toward the National Archives.  Now I'd love to say that our boys were chomping at the bit to see the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights because of their deep, abiding love for history!  And while there may be some truth to that, the bigger reason for their anticipation was the knowledge that Ben & Riley (of National Treasure fame) had stood in the exact spot we found ourselves standing that morning!  Oh, who am I kidding?  I thought that was pretty cool, too! 

One of my greatest delights on this vacation was watching our boys interact with my parents; observing as my dad and mom explained their remembrances of certain time periods.  Perhaps this was most true on this morning as we visited the U.S. Navy Memorial.  My dad, a proud navy veteran,  explained with passion what it was like to serve during Vietnam.  Pointing to each of the pictures portrayed in the memorial, his memory was stirred as he described the images to our boys.  My mom, too, recalled what it was like waiting for her sailor to come home.  This is one of my many treasured memories from our vacation. 

We continued on to the Old Post Office, and finally we reached our long-awaited destination:  1600 Pennsylvania Avenue! 

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• Nov. 18, 2007
We Must Not Forget

So many of the images we saw in Washington D.C. gripped my heart.  On a beautiful Thursday morning, we began the day at the World War II Memorial.  It's difficult to find the words to adequately express my sense of sadness mingled with deep gratitude and pride.  As we took in the various images, I watched as elderly men---World War II veterans---solemnly walked through the memorial with their families, often pausing in silence.  I was so moved by this experience...and so grateful for those who have fought (and are currently fighting) for our freedom.

From the World War II Memorial, we walked over to the Holocaust Museum.  This was not a museum we looked forward to seeing, but one that was important to view, nonetheless.   My stomach churned as we were reminded of what happened in our world in the not-so-distant past.  The images I saw...the testimonials I heard...the smells that lingered...these will forever impact my heart. 

Other sights from this day...

This photo was taken atop the Washington Monument.  This was our very first view of the White House...a moment I won't soon forget.

Ford's Theatre & The Petersen House (the boarding house across the street where President Lincoln died)

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• Nov. 14, 2007
A Day at Mt. Vernon

It's difficult to choose just one highlight or offer my top recommendation when it comes to D.C.  Everything is truly captivating and holds its own reasons to be a favored attraction. 

If I could pinpoint one favorite, though, Mt. Vernon would be at the top of my list.  Disclaimer:  I may say this about everything we saw in D.C.!  We were blessed to spend an entire day exploring the acreage our nation's first President called home.  What a breathtaking experience. 

I'll be honest with you, I didn't know a whole lot about George Washington's life prior to our trip.  I'd never really delved into it.  But walking from room to room in his home, reading about his personal life, seeing his burial place...it all made him so much more real.  I was challenged to read about his daily disciplines, such as rising early to work in his study before the rest of the house awoke each day.  I saw in him a man of deep character and integrity.  I discovered that the Washingtons were extremely hospitable people, frequently hosting overnight guests.  I was particularly moved by the love story he shared with his wife, Martha.  I learned that following his death, Martha burned all the love letters written between them.  She didn't want the rest of the world to somehow infringe on the private words of love the two of them shared. 

One of the most poignant moments was stepping out to the backside of the house and overlooking the gorgeous Potomac River.  My eyes beheld the very same view that our President so loved.  It was plain to understand why Washington said, "No estate in United America is more pleasantly situated than this."

Dentistry at Mt. Vernon (performed on a willing victim) 

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• Nov. 14, 2007
Those Teachable Moments

Prior to our trip to Washington D.C., I'd grin inside when I'd hear one of our boys declare, "No school for a week and a half!"  Little did they know...

My husband had contacted our representative and arranged a Capitol tour through his office.  Catching sight of the Capitol for the first time that beautiful autumn morning was a thrilling experience.  In fact, daily we were face to face with famous structures and monuments that we'd seen on tv and in books all our lives.  Seeing each one brought about that same sense of wonder and thanksgiving. 

Walking the halls of the Capitol Building was truly awe-inspiring.  Remembering the great leaders who had walked those same halls; reflecting on the monumental events that had taken place there; pondering God's extravagant grace thorughout our history...all these things gave cause for solemn respect and gratitude.  The Rotunda itself was remarkable with its beautiful murals and paintings which convey the history of our nation.  I thought of the Presidents who have died and laid in state there in the Rotunda.  There truly are no words...

The entire tour was so compelling.  But we received a blessing we hadn't anticipated.  We were able to sit in on the House of Representatives and witness a couple of votes take place while we were there.  What a thrill to see hundreds of representatives trickle, then flood, into the House Chamber.  I was mindful of all that our boys were learning and experiencing firsthand.  Oh, it's one thing to teach it, but here they were witnessing it for themselves! 

Following our tour at the Capitol, we made our way to the Air & Space Museum.  My personal favorite highlight here was the original Wright flyer.  Just incredible!  Due to the fact that the Museum of American History is currently closed for rennovations, a portion of their museum is on display in the Air & Space Museum.  It did not disappoint!  We marveled at Abraham Lincoln's hat, Lewis & Clark's compass, and Dorothy's ruby slippers.  Oh, and who am I kidding?  R2D2 and C3PO were pretty cool, too! 

Obviously, the learning experiences were rich and plentiful.  Our boys have talked frequently about the things they saw and heard and experienced...things that they will never forget.  But don't tell them they learned anything on vacation, because as far as they're concerned, it was just a week and a half of fun!

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• Nov. 12, 2007
When the Eye Touches the Heart

The images and sights we observed in Washington D.C. are permanently etched on my heart and in my mind.  Day after day, step upon step, moment by moment, we were reminded of God's hand of grace.

I find that the images themselves communicate so much more than I could ever articulate with mere words...

Here are just a few of the images that left an impression on my heart on Monday, October 29, 2007...

Arlington Cemetery

JFK's Eternal Flame

Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Arlington House ~ Home of Robert E. Lee

Iwo Jima

Lincoln Memorial

Reading the Gettysburg Address

Washington Monument

Vietnam Veteran's Memorial

Korean War Memorial

"Let this be recorded for a generation to come, so that a people yet to be created may praise the Lord."  Psalm 102:18

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• Nov. 8, 2007
Living a Dream

A dream come true.  That defines our trip to Washington D.C...on numerous levels. 

For our boys, they'd long dreamed of flying in a commercial jet.  This, I suppose, is true for many.  Our oldest son dreams of being a pilot, so his desire was probably somewhat compounded. 

When George W. Bush was elected President, and specifically after 9/11, I told my husband that I dreamed of visiting Washington D.C. while President Bush was still in office.  Part of it was a renewed sense of patriotism.  Another reason was that we were relatively new homeschoolers, and history was for the first time interesting and compelling to me.  I longed to walk the streets of history with our boys.  I longed for them to walk the paths of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln...to learn firsthand of their faith and integrity.  Back in 2001, my desire seemed like an impossible dream.  Fun to think about, but not grounded in reality.

Many of you know that my husband ran his first marathon a year and a  half ago, followed by his second one this past spring.  Last winter, he began dreaming of running a really big marathon.  A national-scale marathon.  He casually asked me what I'd think of him running in the highly acclaimed "Marine Corps Marathon."  

As we began talking and praying about the possibilities, excitement built.  This wasn't simply one of those happy dreams that's nice to think about...this could really happen!  God continued to open the doors for us to make this dream vacation, and we eagerly planned and anticipated.  And if the impending trip weren't already special enough, God blessed us yet again by my parents agreeing to join us.  Since my husband and dad had run the previous 2 marathons together, it seemed only natural that my parents embrace this latest adventure, too!  Not to mention, they'd never been to Washington D.C. either, and this was their longtime dream, too. 

So yes, a lot of dreams came true over the past 2 weeks.  Our boys flew, and I was able to see that look of wonder and awe in their faces as we sped down the runway...and yet again as the plane lifted off the ground skyward.  How I love experiencing things "for the first time" all over again through our boys.

My dream came true, as well.  As we stood outside the big iron fence of the White House last Friday, the words I'd spoken to my husband 6 years ago rang in my ears.  I was moved and overwhelmed by God's goodness and provision.  I was mindful, too, of my husband's gentle and frequent reminders that he wants to make all my dreams come true.  My heart was so full...

Overlooking the masses at the Marine Corps Marathon start line on Sunday, October 28, I got a lump in my throat.  Somewhere down there, my husband and dad were living one of their dreams, as well.  Though I couldn't see them, I knew their hearts...and ours...were filled with pride and satisfaction and thanksgiving.  And as they lived another of their dreams, I lived another of mine.

My husband (center of photo ~ white hat, orange shirt) running by at mile 11.

Champions!

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• Nov. 7, 2007
Out of Rough Beginnings...

A long-awaited family vacation that begins with hearing, "I'm sorry, ma'am, your suitcase is 4.2 pounds overweight," has the potential to make a swift downward spiral.  The stress is further heightened due to it being the busy, heavily traveled time of morning at the airport.  My husband quickly sets to work to remove the superfluous poundage from our suitcase.  Embarrassed that my "personals" are in view of the long line that stretches behind us, I urgently whisper, "Can we at least turn it around so my "stuff" isn't on display for everyone???"  We successfully transfer the extra 4 pounds to another suitcase and are soon on our way through security.  Despite setting off the alarm with my belt, we make it through without much delay.  Just one more check point to go...

As I approach the final turn-style with my pink travel mug in hand, the female security checker says matter-of-factly, "Tell me that cup is empty."  It isn't.  So as the rest of my entourage waits for me behind the final checkpoint, I search in vain for the nearest bathroom so I can pour my coffee down the drain.  After several long minutes, I finally re-join my family and receive some good-natured razzing. 

All this before 6:30am! 

But out of rough beginnings often come glorious memories, memorable milestones, and happy endings. 

The coming days will chronicle our family's vacation to Washington D.C. and the fulfillment of one of my long-held dreams.  Please be patient with me as I seek to balance the hectic return to real life with my desire to chronicle our family's experiences before I forget any of the details. 

"Only take care, and keep your soul diligently, lest you forget the things that your eyes have seen, and lest they depart from your heart all the days of your life.  Make them known to your children and your children's children..."  Deuteronomy 4:9

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• Oct. 19, 2007
Just Another Step...

At times I feel like a broken record on my blog, repeatedly bringing attention to the fact that my "little" boys are growing up.  It's just that it's not a change here and a change there and then we're done.  It's a continual, ongoing series of events.  Each day seems filled with a milestone, ending, or beginning of some sort.  And being the nostalgic sap that I am, I can't simply overlook them.  I try to treasure each little step along the way...to tuck it away in my heart for future pondering.  As I've said before, I know these changes are good and right.  Sometimes it just takes a little time to adjust and accept...

Today is yet another of those bittersweet milestones.  Our oldest son is part of the Bible Quizzing team at our church, and this weekend marks their first meet of the year.  Our son will be traveling with his team and their coaches to a meet 4 hours away.  Tomorrow they'll be competing against other churches, bringing to memory the material they've been studying and memorizing from Galatians.  Throughout the year, the material will expand to include Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. 

The past month has been a good experience for our son as he learns how to study and memorize God's Word and hide it in his heart.   He's learned how he studies best...and what happens when he doesn't study.  He's taken ownership and responsibility for learning the material, and my heart has soared. 

As you likely know, I'm pretty sentimental about life.  At least two of our boys have that same "bent."  This morning, however, one of them called me into his room where he'd made a large pile of stuff, including stuffed animals and blankies.  He simply stated, "We can get rid of this now."  While a part of me wanted to burst out with a loud, "Finally!"...I restrained myself.  And as I bagged up his once-treasured belongings, I said farewell to yet another stage.

Yesterday I purchased new sheets for our youngest son's bed.  His old sheets were thread-bare and completely shot.  I gleefully removed them from his upper bunk, threw them in the trash, and replaced them with the new sheets which were made of the same material...his favorite jersey-knit.  While he was delighted with the new sheets, he discovered his old sheets in the trash and came to me in tears, begging to keep them. 

While I explained to him that they were no longer good for anything, he tried to convince me that they wouldn't take up much room in his memory box.  I finally consented, and after my husband had tucked him in bed, I went to kiss him goodnight.  He wrapped his little arms around my neck and thanked me for letting him keep his old sheets.  And my heart melted and empathized as he spoke these words:  "I'm a stick-to-the-original kind of guy.  I don't like change."  As I hugged him close and inhaled the sweetness of his skin, my heart whispered, "Neither do I, Buddy.  Neither do I..."

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• Oct. 9, 2007
Warms My Heart

Passing on the tradition of the Chocolate Chip Cookie...

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• Oct. 7, 2007
Life with Boys

How do they do it?

Wednesday ~ Sons #1 and #2 both, in separate incidents, fall in rousing games at youth group and AWANA, respectively.  Each ends up with an impressive-looking rug burn on their elbow.  Nothing unusual about that. 

Friday ~ Son #2 is...what else?...wrestling with his brothers and knocks the aforementioned elbow on the floor.  He keeps his cool, but by his urgent call, I can tell something is unusually wrong.  I find that his rug burn has broken open.  'Nuff said.

Saturday ~ Sons #1 and #2 are playing baseball with their dad and little brother.  And once more, on separate occasions, they slide, dive, or collide in such a way that their injury of a few days earlier has busted open yet again!  They return home, each holding their elbow in their hand.  One even has his dad's t-shirt pressed up against his wound.  Have I mentioned I don't handle blood well?  That should be a major component to the story.

As I irrigate and disinfect their wounds, I'm left scratching my head. 

And little by little, I'm becoming more and more aware of the fact that boys really are a different breed.

I'm so glad.

Boys are Found Everywhere ~

on top of, underneath, inside of, climbing on, swinging from, running around, or jumping to...

A boys is Truth with dirt on its face,

Beauty with a cut on its finger,

Wisdom with bubble gum in its hair,

and the Hope of the future with a frog in its pocket.

~ Alan Marshall Beck

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• Oct. 2, 2007
Eleven Years of Loving You

How can a young man keep his way pure?

By guarding it according to Your word.

With my whole heart I seek You;

let me not wander from Your commandments!

I have stored up Your word in my heart,

that I might not sin against You.

Blessed are You, O Lord;

teach me Your statutes!

With my lips I declare

all the rules of Your mouth.

In the way of your testimonies I delight

as much as in all riches.

I will meditate on your precepts

and fix my eyes on Your ways.

I will delight in Your statutes;

I will not forget Your word.

Deal bountifully with Your servant,

that I may live and keep Your word.

Open my eyes, that I may behold

wondrous things out of Your law.

Psalm 119:9-18

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• Sep. 24, 2007
While He Was Sleeping

Yep.  I knew it was coming.  It was just a matter of time. 

I go to bed one night, wake up the next morning, and discover that this happened while he was sleeping:

He passed me right up.  I don't look all together thrilled about it, do I? 

I snapped the following picture a few months ago when this same son came downstairs after getting ready for bed.  It totally cracked me up, as Son #1 has been wearing this same t-shirt to bed for something like 11 years.  When he was just a little guy, a friend of ours was in pharmaceuticals and gave him this t-shirt.  I put it on him as a night shirt.  It fell midway between his calf and his ankle.  He frequently wore it as a toddler, and you could say it grew on him.  It was soon associated with comfort and all things familiar.  Now as an almost-teenager, he still often wears it to bed.  Thread-bare, worn, and a bit snug, its days are probably numbered.  But I love being able to track his growth with a silly, unexpected thing like this t-shirt. 

As bittersweet as these reminders of growth can be, I'm so thankful for not only the physical growth and health that God has given our boys, but the emotional and spiritual growth, as well.  I'm more acutely aware than ever before how very quickly these days are passing.  And with each new milestone...with each new marking up the growth chart...I'm praying with fervency that God captures their hearts.  I pray they'll be convinced, without a doubt, that there's no way they could live without Him. 

[And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom.  And the favor of God was upon Him.  Luke 2:40]

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• Sep. 17, 2007
Beautiful Somethings

One of my most fun memories of summer is listening to the radio while driving around town.  It became my tradition that when the Newsboys' "Something Beautiful" came on the radio, I'd crank up the volume and sing along.  It was even better if I happened to be driving through the country during this song, as then I'd have the added benefit of rolling down my window, inhaling the fresh air, and letting the wind blow through my hair!  This song just makes me happy and causes me to reflect on all the sweet and undeserved blessings God has poured out on me. 

Today I find myself giving thanks for these specific beautiful "somethings" in my life:

• The faithful, protective love of my husband, best friend, and soul mate who can read me like a book.  Over the years, he's studied me and learned me.  He knows when I need a bit of encouragement and he selflessly gives of himself to make it happen.  Something beautiful...

He surprised me with these today:

• A son who can be found, in a variety of poses, reading books all over the house.  Something beautiful...

This same son was expressing his thanks and gratitude to me earlier today, declaring that if it weren't for me, the men in this family would eat only brats and hamburgers.  Something beautiful...

• A son who knows every MLB stat and fact and comes home covered in dirt and grass stains after a night at the baseball diamond with his dad and brothers; the same son who finds joy in making music, and diligently applies himself to learning how to play.  Something beautiful...

• Another son who is growing by leaps and bounds and keeps me regularly thanking God for his growing maturity, sense of responsibility, and hunger for God.  Something beautiful...

[I will praise the name of God with a song; I will magnify Him with thanksgiving.]  Psalm 69:30

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• Sep. 12, 2007
Refreshment

The following photos were not posed.  They are true moments caught in time, featuring our 8-year-old son engrossed in a good book:

If this weren't funny enough, I discovered him like this the next week...

Just warms my heart!  In other news...

My husband ran a half marathon on Saturday.  I especially love the above photo, as I unknowingly captured my shadow waving to him as he ran by!  I find this photo particularly poignant, as it's a visual reminder of my heart to serve my husband.  As Elizabeth George reminds us, "He is the one who is supposed to win, and I am supposed to help make his victory possible!"

My husband took first place in his 35-39 age division!  This particular cheese-themed race is known for its quirkiness and randomness.  So what else would we expect for a trophy?  An engraved cheese platter and a block of cheese! 

Our family is learning to adapt to a new school schedule, though it hasn't come without a few bumps along the way.  Our oldest son is wisely learning how to balance his new commitments and responsibilities, including Bible quizzing, a science co-op, and youth group.  I've marveled as I've watched him this week.  He seems to know his limits, and he's wisely turned down opportunities when he knows he's stretched as far as he can go.  Oh, I can learn a lot from that son of ours...

Our middle son's tender heart is slowly healing from the loss of our faithful dog.  He was the first to suggest that we make a shadow box of Gunnar's belongings, and I believe this box will be a sweet remembrance for all of us. 

One of my greatest delights of late has been peeking in on each of our boys as they're studying and memorizing God's Word.  I've also loved our devotional time at the start of the school day...hearing them lead us in the reading of Scripture; hearing them pray and ask God for wisdom and help.  Yes, the days are speeding by far too quickly, yet I am so thankful for the ongoing work that God is doing in the hearts of our boys and their dad and me. 

[The light of the eyes rejoices the heart, and good news refreshes the bones.]  Proverbs 15:30

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• Aug. 13, 2007
When I Look at Your Heavens...

Did you get to see the Perseid Meteor Shower this weekend?  This was the first time my family participated, and we were not disappointed! 

We drove a few miles out of town and settled on the beach with a blanket.  As our family of 5 lay on our backs looking skyward, we marveled at the handiwork of God.  Simply seeing the star-filled sky in all its brilliance was enough, even if we never saw a meteor!  But to view the night sky with the sound of waves lapping the shore was over the top!  Portions of Psalm 8 resounded in my heart.

Before long, a brilliant streak of light lit up the sky, and the contest was on!  Our boys immersed themselves in a friendly competition to see who could spot the most meteors!  While listening to their excitement and enthusiasm, I snuggled in to my husband's side, treasuring this moment and tucking it away for future pondering. 

After about an hour, my husband said that we'd wait for one more "good" meteor before we left.  After waiting for a few moments, the most spectacular meteor we'd seen lit up the sky!  Our 8-year-old son declared, "God gave us a grand finale!" 

O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is Your name in all the earth!

You have set Your glory above the heavens.

Out of the mouths of babes and infants,

You have established strength because of your foes,

to still the enemy and the avenger.

When I look at Your heavens,

the work of Your fingers,

the moon and the stars which You have set in place,

what is man that You are mindful of him,

the son of man that You care for him?

You have made him a little lower than the heavenly beings

and crowned him with glory and honor.

You have give him dominion over the works of your hands;

You have put all things under his feet,

all sheep and oxen,

and also the beasts of the field,

the birds of the heavens,

and the fish of the sea,

whatever passes along the paths of the seas.

O Lord, our Lord,

how majestic is Your name in all the earth!

Psalm 8

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• Aug. 5, 2007
Hero

No matter how big a little girl gets, her dad is still her hero.

Throughout my childhood, I have vivid memories of my dad heading off to work.  He always wore a suit, and in my heart I knew he must have a very important job.  I remember sitting on his lap at the breakfast table, sipping (or sneaking?) his coffee (heavily laden with cream and sugar).

As I got a bit older, I remember preparing for school and heading toward the kitchen for breakfast.  My first view as I walked down the hall was always the sight of my dad in his recliner, Bible open in his lap.  Not only did he encourage my brother and me in our walk with God, he modeled it before us day in and day out.

My dad recently retired, and last evening we had the privilege of attending a retirement party given by his company.  I knew none of the employees or other guests, but I watched in awe as my dad greeted each one.  And it struck me as I witnessed in person what I've always known in my heart.  My dad is no respecter of persons.  He didn't show any less honor and respect to the cleaning lady than he did the executives of the company.  He knew each of his employees by name, and you could see in their eyes that they hold my dad in high respect. 

After a delicious meal, one of the owners of the company stood to say a few words about my dad.  He spoke of his ethics, character, and leadership.  He mentioned that my dad always celebrated his employees' achievements publicly, while dealing with discipline issues privately.  And through tears, he said that my dad was his role model.  Of course, this had my mom and me in tears, too.  I was so proud that my dad is known "out there" how I've always known him to be within his own four walls. 

But then my dad stood up to speak, humbly saying that any good the company saw in him wasn't because of him; it was because of Jesus Christ living in him.  He proceeded to share the gospel and his relationship with Christ. 

And more than ever, this big girl's dad is still her hero. 

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