Raindrops and Roses

The other night there was a huge storm here. Amazingly, only two of the children woke up and ended up in my bed for a short time. As we were watching the lightning, I felt like we should all jump around and sing "My Favorite Things", although that might wake up Graham, who apparently was not stirred by the storm and whose snoring was competing with the thunder. After the kids were back in their beds, I was lying in bed and wondering what would be the one thing I would grab if the house caught on fire (there was a lot of lightning!) It would obviously have to be something small, because my arms would be full of precious cargo. I decided that it would have to be the Bible that Graham gave me on our wedding night almost 20 years ago. From an outsider's perspective, it might seem like a poor choice. It is old, the binding is completely unglued, the pages are bent- not exactly a worthy rescue. Yet to me, it is like a history book of our family and all that we have been through together. I like to circle special verses, those that God has used in me or that I clung to during hard times. There is the verse I found after I crashed my father-in-law's car; verses for a couple wanting to adopt and the date written when the prayer was answered; verses I repeated moment by moment when I was having a hard time being a loving wife and mother. I have marked special verses when each of the five children have been born, a verse from a favorite preacher who is now in heaven, verses to comfort me in bouts of melancholy and despair. It is like stepping back in time- as soon as I see the verse on the page, I know exactly where I was and what was happening when God revealed the beauty of the verse to me.

I'm thankful that there was no fire- just some interrupted sleep (for some of us) and a time to reflect on what is most important. I'm thankful for a record of rejoicing and mourning; dreams and disappointments; my sin and God's redeeming love and forgiveness. I'm thankful for the gifts it reveals- a loving husband, five miracles, and hope for another 20 years of God's faithfulness to me and to our family. Maybe the next time there is storm I will find just the right verse, circle it and write on the page "we all jumped on the bed and sang with the beloved Julie Andrews."

Spider Webs

The other morning I was unloading the dishwasher- a pretty common occurence in our house of seven. I usually don't mind this task, but on that morning it seemed to put me in a bad mood. It wasn't the task itself that set me off, but what it represented- the beginning of another long day of "have-to-do's." I'm sure you've been there too- in the middle of the urgent rather than in the middle of something you actually chose to do. So as I was shaking the water off the glasses and wiping the drips off the floor (isn't a dishwasher supposed to save me from cleaning?), I was reminded of the spider experiment that Griffin had done the previous day. In an effort to observe and learn about cold-blooded animals, we caught a spider and observed it in a plastic cup(with a lid, of course!) Yes, it was indeed busily trying to escape and get back to its regular activities. After observing it for a minute, we put the container into the refrigerator. After a while we pulled it out again to observe. I knew it was going to be moving slowly. Then I could put it back outside and continue on with my long list of "what to get done while Annie is napping" and "how to cram all this stuff in before I leave for class." Griffin and I looked at the spider. Yep, slow going. Now let's hurry this up! But as we were pulling the foil off the top, we noticed that there was the beginning of a web! That spider just kept on doing what he was made to do and a few unwanted minutes in the fridge were not going to interrupt his work.

As I was pondering this at the dishwasher, I realized that I, too, just needed to keep on doing what I was created to do. Some days I'm not sure what all that entails, but I do know that I was created to be joyful and give thanks whether or not I like the task at hand. I can choose to live by His grace and for His glory. God may put me in the fridge and cover me with foil, but I can still spin the webs of love and grace in the family I am blessed to be a part of. So tomorrow when I get up (4 hours from now) and start the chore list, I'll remember the lesson of the spider. Now if I only had eight arms to do it all....

Our Big Family

The dictionary defines "mantra" as a word or sound repeated to aid concentration in meditation. In our family, a mantra is a saying that we use repeatedly to teach, train or focus our values as a family. For example, "If He can get it through you, He will send it to you" is an oft repeated statement that teaches my children to be a channel, not a reservoir, of God's blessings. " Be thankful about what you do have and don't be grumpy about what you don't" is another common saying in our house. Since we have a pretty large family, a lot of discussions seem to be explained in part by "well, because we're a big family" or "in our family...". Of course I try to help all the kids understand what a blessing it is to have quite a few siblings; yet there are times when it does seem like the smaller families have all the fun (at least in the children's eyes). So-and-so gets a new backpack every year; someone else gets to take a big trip for their birthday; some family has something newer, bigger and better. Another case in point: Andrew, the only one who is not homeschooled this year, came home last Monday from school and reported very assertively: "A girl in my class had such a fun weekend! She got to go to Pizza Hut AND Painted-By-U AND she got to paint TWO things. I guess that's because they only have two kids in their family!" I didn't know whether to laugh or cry. He really didn't seem too upset. I think he was just sorting out in his mind that this was one of those things that really wasn't an option for all of us to do. And I hope that he knew that being in a big family truly is a lot of fun, even though we don't do a lot of extras. Do I want all my kids to have fun? Yes. Do I want them to have great experiences? Yes. Do I want them to get everything they want? Definitely not. I'm thankful for the boundaries God has put around us and for the opportunity to teach and live out that relationships are so much more important than things. Come to think of it, that is another Holmes family mantra!

Perfect Peace

I think peace is one of those things that the more we try to get it or manipulate it for ourselves, the more elusive it is. I have been learning that the more I try to control situations and circumstances, the less I see God at work. Yet, when I slow down and give God a chance to intervene, I see how faithful and in control He really is. More than that, I get to see how much He cares for me and that truly is an amazing thing. Case in point: a closing gets postponed and we receive an unexpected refund in the mail, the same day. Another case in point: the shower has been dripping forever but I waited to call a plumber (no closing, no plumber!) Someone comes and actually does the work for free. It's not that I expect God to bail me out of all my difficulties, but if I don't rush to fix everything myself, I give Him room to show me what only He can do. I love Isaiah 26:3 "The steadfast of mind Thou wilt keep in perfect peace, because he trusts in Thee." I can't go get an order of perfect peace, but as I remain steady in my faith and belief of God, my Savior and Redeemer, I will receive His peace. I am encouraged to slow down, love God with all my being and wait to see Him work not only for me but in me and through me. Thank you, Jesus!

Big Brothers

I just don't remember much about being with my brother when I was little. I remember him reading Rolling Stone magazine, riding in the back of his Ford Pinto and him getting into lots of trouble! Sandy (my 5 year old), however, seems joined at the hip with Griffin and Andrew. For the past week they have been playing non-stop with a box of blocks, cars, cardboard boxes, bikes and basketballs. Ever since I can remember, she has known all about their toys and tv shows. She has graduated with them from Rescue Heroes to Spiderman, from Star Wars to NFL and NBA. The other day she saw a funny commercial on tv and she said, without hesitation, "He just teleported!" So I'm on the offense for trying to teach and train her about how to be a young lady amidst all the testosterone. I have yet to find a way to stop her from relating all this boy knowledge to everyday situations. Case in point: We were at the pool a few days ago and I was talking to a mom. You may know a particular mom like this- one who seems to have it all together all the time, only lets her kids have the best foods and the best educational choices at all times. I used to really be intimidated and guilt-ridden after talking with moms like her- questioning all my mothering and life choices. I think I am a bit more relaxed now (can that really describe me?) and try not to play the comparison game. Anyway, Sandy went up to her and asked her last name. I had no clue why. Apparently, she has a son whose name sounds like "Dred" and Sandy, who has been exposed to the cultural aspects of certain NBA players and even an NBA character on a Wii game whose name is Dredlocks, picks up on this similarity. Now, I know some of you are probably wondering why in the world we have a NBA Wii game. All I can say in response to that is this: almost ten-year old Griffin earned enough money folding laundry, a nickel per piece, so he was allowed to buy the game and play with parental supervision. So, back to the mom at the pool. Sandy says to this mom, "Oh, I thought your last name was Locks- I thought you had a Dred Locks. We have him on our Wii." I was, needless to say, a bit mortified and wanted to run as fast as I could with two wet kids and a baby to the parking lot. The mother, obviously horrified at the thought said very scornfully "we don't have a Wii!" Another feather in the cap (or jewel in her crown?) of the perfect mom. As for me, I will again re-examine the important issues in Sandy's life and heart and in my parenting as well. But for now I am rejoicing that I can laugh at the scene in my head, be thankful that I am not keeping score, trust Him for the wisdon I need and truly delight that Sandy is so in touch with her brothers' worlds.

Conversations by the Kitchen Window

For the past 15 years, Graham and I have been going to the same beach condo in Panama City Beach for vacation (thanks to his generous aunt and uncle!). Every year we prop open the door, turn down the air, unload all our stuff, open the curtain, take a look at the beach and breathe a sigh of contentment and thankfulness to be at the beach. Every year the activities are pretty much the same, just with more and more children- alternating between the beach and the pool, trips to Wal-Mart and the movie store, tacos and seafood. And every year when we want to talk on our phones, we have to stand in the kitchen by the window that faces the parking lot to get any reception. I was thinking about how the conversations have changed over the course of time. From "yes, I feel fine" with my very first pregnancy, to working out real estate contracts that always seem to come up the day before we leave for the beach; discussions about an at home business, questions about a homeschool book order, to "yes, I feel fine" with pregnancy number five! I can track the stages and phases of our family life with the small periods of time spent by the window in the kitchen. No photos or scrapbooks about it- just vivid memories of the journeys God has taken us through the years. I smile when I ponder the conversations in the future- "are you working on your wedding plans?", "are you bringing the grandkids?", " I love you and can't wait to spend time with you." I pray that Jesus will tarry so I can savor the sweet feel of the sunshine and the sound of the voices of those I love while standing by the window in that kitchen.

Ponderings

Do you ever have those days when your mind just seems to wander and question everything? The other day I was driving in the van and I was making a mental list of questions, things that make me laugh and things that make me sad. So here are the ponderings of a mom having a blah/nostalgic/introspective day. Questions: Why do young children suffer with cancer? When I get to the end of this short life, will I really know for sure that I have invested, and not just spent, my life on what really mattered the most? Why does a bike for Sandy cost less than a pair of shoes for Griffin? Why does Sarah getting more beautiful make me feel so much older? Things that make me sad: When I drive by the park and remember all those fun days when going there was the most important thing on my list; hearing moms talk unkindly to their children; seeing Andrew sob for the children of Haiti and other orphans of the world; knowing that time is running out for loved ones who do not know Christ; ways I have let my family down; knowing I will never, ever get caught up on all the scrapbooks for the children. Things that make me laugh and smile: Hearing Sandy correctly use words like vibrate, pitch black, "a pinch of"; chatting on facebook with my nephew at 1AM; knowing by name all the kids in the church nursery and giving each a big hug; singing to Annie so she will smile and open her mouth so I can feed her; seeing my children look out for each other; listening to Griffin as he very seriously says "If I don't get drafted by the NFL or the NBA, then I think I want to be either a writer or an inventer!"

I'm thankful that each day is a new day and His mercies are new every morning. I can live by His grace and for His glory with His transforming power. I guess those are wonders to ponder.

Perspective

Some things in daily life seem overwhelming at times- the never-ending piles of laundry; surviving without my husband and oldest daughter /helper/babysitter/Sunshine while they are out of the country; learning microbiology at 44; being purposeful and diligent in prayer; paying taxes and for a new transmission at the same time... the list goes on. But then comes perspective. Last week I went with a group of women to clean a house, the owner of which I did not know personally, but who was at the funeral for her two-year old daughter. In the blink of an eye her whole world changed when tragedy struck outside near her own yard. She, too, had five children, one of which is a newborn. As I was cleaning the master bedroom, I couldn't help but notice things which would normally seem ordinary, but which were now precious- a family photo with all the children, a birthday party hat and napkin (her daughter had just turned 2), a stub from a family vacation spot, and a picture she had colored in church that had her name on it. That one in particular touched my heart- the wonderful scribbles in red crayon on a picture of Jesus.
I can remember a time when I was sitting on the front steps of the house of a friend who had just lost her husband in a car accident. She said "Go home, enjoy your husband and don't ever take anything for granted." And so now my heart is overwhelmed- not with all the tasks, but with how to desperately show those near to me how much I love and appreciate them. I want to savor the laughs, long-winded stories, endless questions, and countless pictures colored and drawn from their loving and precious hands. I am so sad for the loss of a sweet little girl but I am so forever thankful for her reminder to keep this short life in perspective. She is rejoicing to be safe in His arms and I am rejoicing to celebrate the dailyness of life as I know it.

Living with My Eyes Closed

Today at the dentist I sat in that dreaded chair for over an hour with my eyes closed. Why, after all, would I want to look down at my white knuckles? At one point, however, I happened to look up and was very surprised to see my dentist with glasses and funny magnifying glasses on. My mind immediately flashed to Toy Story 2 and the guy who fixed Woody. I almost started to laugh. When did he put on those funny things? The last I saw of him, he was in his white jacket and smiling at me. I wonder what else I missed! It got me thinking about what else in life I have my eyes closed to. Now, some things should definitely not be seen, like the view from the Mindbender or the Great American Scream Machine. Yes, we recently went to Six Flags and I was forced to ride in order to create an even number for riding. My five-year old had more fun than I did and I'm certain she had her eyes open for everything. If mine had been open I'm sure I would not only be leaving in a stretcher but also that they would have been cleaning up the seats after me! But crazy rides aside, how much of life do I miss because I do not truly have my eyes open to the world around me? I want to be like Moses who actually stopped to look at the burning bush. The Bible says that when the Lord saw that Moses actually turned aside to look, He then called to Him from the midst of the bush. Do I miss God's call or voice of beckoning when I fail to stop and take the time to see those around me? Who is God calling me to serve or love on? Do I hear His calling? Just a few things to ponder this time of year as I celebrate His sacrifice for me. He rescued me so that I could share His story of love and forgiveness with those around me. May I slow down and look for Him in all the bushes that surround all my comings and goings.

Joys of Bedtime

I'm embarrassed to admit this, but I really do not like reading stories to my children at bedtime. Can't I just count the books we read all day long? But hey, isn't that what every mom is supposed to do at bedtime- to cuddle, read and savor the time together? I can't count the number of times my mom read Uncle Remus' "De' Tar Baby" or "Are You My Mother" to me as I was going to bed- probably hundreds! I'm sure she was tired but she read to me anyway. But, guilt aside, I do like praying with and for my children and just talking to them about life and God as they are getting ready to enter the Land of Nod. Tonight I asked Sandy what she would say in a thank you note to God if she were writing one to Him. The first thing she said was "I'm thankful that He made me." It just filled my heart. Simple, but so pure and full of love. She knows that she is special to her Creator. And next, so true to her free spirit, was being able to ride a tricycle FAST, feeling the wind and seeing the sky all around her. She also wondered if she died at night, would she get to go to heaven in her pajamas and be able to wear them FOREVER?! After that, I went to tuck in Andrew. He informed me that "the Bible really changed my life"- his words exactly. He went on to explain that he used to not understand things about God but now that Jesus is in his heart, he really does. As we prayed, he said he was sorry for all those angels who left heaven with the devil; wanted everyone one in the world to know about God; and wondered how God could be everywhere at once, but was glad He was.
I don't always take the time to engage my children so deeply at bedtime, but I should (especially since I don't like the whole book-at-bedtime thing). How sweet of God to remind me that my days with my children are indeed numbered and to invest in them at bedtime is time very well spent. Now I can go to bed and sleep in my most comfortable pj's- I never know when and if I will be wearing them forever!

Is Every Moment Sacred?

It seems like so much of the world is guided by formulas and directions- physics, math, lab reports, new Wii games, Princess Yahtzee, baking cookies; anything that needs to run smoothly and end up with the right product. But what about things like being a good mom, friend, wife? Sometimes I wish there was a formula I could just follow and know I was heading in the right direction. Yes, I know there is an Instruction Manual for life, the Bible. And it is the source of all truth and wisdom. Sometimes it is just hard to know how I'm doing. For example, I know I can be "holy"- late at night when I'm all alone reading or in my van (all by myself!), singing praises at the top of my lungs. But what about when I am feeding a baby, trying to understand and teach 8th grade physics, get a nine year old to focus on spelling and math and preparing to go to a night class- all at the same time? Can I be holy then? Is there a formula for that situation? I am reading a book called "The Discipline of Grace" by Jerry Bridges. He writes about working in us what is pleasing to Him; that "Godliness is having a regard for God's glory and God's will in every aspect of our lives, doing everything out of reverence and love for Him." So I am trying to see every moment as sacred, as an act of devotion to the One whom I truly desire to serve and love. There is no formula on how to respond to a faulty transmission, aches and pains, desires and longings- except that God gives us the freedom to write our own formula. We are free to live under His teaching by His never-ending grace. With His Spirit, I can devote each moment to His glory. Will I fail? Yes! Will every moment be sacred in practice? NO! Yet I am assured by His love for me that He will do for me and through me all that I can't do myself. He is the only formula I need to know.

Alley-Hoop

It's funny. I usually worry about the things that I do not want my children to hear or learn about from someone else; you know- sex, drugs, violence and the like. I think when I am old I am actually going to laugh about and enjoy the things my children know that I do not. God has blessed me with an early example of this. The other night I was nursing Annie in my room and I had on the Carolina-Duke basketball game. I know many of my friends think that I have totally abandoned my alma mater and that the only sports my children know of is SEC football. Well, thanks to my nine-year old, our lives have been overcome with details about all different sports. Hard to believe that there wasn't even such a thing as SportsCenter when I was growing up. So, back to the bedroom. The game was on and Sandy, the most observant and quick of the clan, came in to see me and just happened to see about 5 seconds of the game as she was passing the small screen on my dresser. As she came over to see me she replied, very casually, "Oh, that was an alley-hoop." I didn't even know she had watched much basketball, much less getting the names of the plays down. I didn't even know exactly what an alley-oop was until I asked Griffin. Oh, the joys of having a big family! I love it that we all teach each other things as we walk through this life together.
I'm sure there are going to be things that Sandy learns about that aren't as innocent as an 'alley-hoop', but for now I can rest and enjoy the protection and care God has provided for her and my other children. I do not have to live in fear; I'll protect them as best I can and God will provide the joys of living under His grace and mercy.

Just a Shower?

I don't know about you, but for me a shower is more than just a shower. Yes, at the bare minimum it is a place to get clean, but it is also a place to sing, cry, pray, listen to God and even escape. This afternoon was such a time. My morning included working out (finally!), helping Sarah with a science test that took waaaay too long, trying to keep up with Griffin's never-ending stats about the NFL (it really isn't fair that I expect him to know all his math facts and I can't even name any other players on the Colts or Saints except the QB's, even though I have been told many times), caring for Annie and making sure Sandy got at least a LITTLE attention! There was a short window of time before I had to pick up Andrew and then get ready for my class tonight. Time to escape to the land of warmth and solitude. I really do thank God quite often that I live in a land that has access to hot water at any time. Can you imagine having to boil water and shower in a basin or some other contraption? Ask any of my children- the thing I most look forward to in heaven is (hopefully) being warm all the time. So back to the shower- I just stood there under that wonderful waterfall from heaven and relaxed, prayed, and was just still. But alas- knock,knock. "Yes?" "Can you give me a synonym for..." Time's up. Back to the world of homework and housework. But all is sacred to Him and I wouldn't have it any other way.

Surrounded By Love- and Blankets!

As I was putting Annie down this morning for her nap there was quite a collection of blankets in her cradle. One folded over the side was a gift from my mom. One was a beautiful, handmade labor of love that someone made for Sandy when she was a baby. One, a gift for Annie from a new friend and the one that she was actually under- a sweet hand-knitted blanket that is so soft and warm. As I was folding the collection that had amassed I realized how wonderful it is to be surrounded by the love of family and friends alike. It was as if God was loving her through each of these people who care for and love her. I guess there's just something about a peaceful, sleeping baby that brings out all kinds of emotions in a mom- but I just felt so surrounded by the grace and mercy of God. I was so encouraged by Him to keep my home and heart like little Annie- full of peace, totally dependent on my Maker, content to rest and surrounded with the love and warmth of family and friends.

Who Do You Want to Be?

Last night while I was hanging out with Sarah in her room she asked me who I would want to be if I could be anyone else in the world. My immediate thought was Faith Hill- cute, spunky, great smile, seemingly great life. But within 2 seconds I changed my mind- it's amazing how fast the brain can process and analyze all our different thoughts. Someone famous like Faith Hill hasn't even impacted my life or the life of my family. So the name I spoke aloud to Sarah was Jean Fleming. "Who?" you ask. So did Sarah. Probably 99.9% of the world has never heard of her. Many years ago she wrote a book called A Mother's Heart. I first read it when Sarah was almost one and I have read it cover-to-cover at least 5 other times. Other than the Bible, it has been the one thing that has most impacted my vision/goals/inspiration for mothering. Sarah said, "Do you know her?"- no. "Do you know anything about her?"- again no. It's amazing how someone that I don't even know is someone who has impacted my life and love of children. Why would I want to be her? Maybe because I, like all of us, have a desire to make a difference in someone's life; to be a valuable resource to those around us; to encourage other moms to not settle for the world's way of raising kids. We all need encouragement for the tasks at hand and to know we are not alone. We all seek that place and plan for our lives that is bigger than we are. We can all be significant to those around us, even if we never know their names. Isn't that a part of loving our neighbor? I pray that God would so fill my heart and mind that He would shine into the hearts and homes of those who need His peace, His love, His grace, His compassion, His hope and all the other blessings that are from Him.
I'm sure it is great to be famous and to know so many people. How much better to be known, if only even by name, by a few whose lives you have impacted for generations to come.

Simple Pleasures, Part III

I've noticed that some things are simple, but not pleasurable- folding clothes, unloading the dishwasher, changing a dirty diaper, untying shoe laces, driving the van with all five children inside and the like. Some things are pleasurable but not simple- making a dinner that is healthy and that everyone likes, teaching algebra to Sarah, taking a family trip to the beach in the summer, finding quiet time alone to read and pray. So I am truly enjoying the things that are both- drinking hot chocolate on a cold day in my favorite mug that sarah made for me, watching my boys build a fort or an original Lego design, watch Sandy as she colors so intensely or dancing around the room with Annie. I have danced more in the last few days than I have in a long, long time- just trying to savor Annie's sweet smell, size and total dependence on me. I'm finding it enjoyable to slow down and enjoy the little moments that only a newborn in the house can bring. Maybe I'm avoiding paying the bills, working on our taxes, reading Sarah's science book, studying, or other things that are neither simple nor pleasurable but which will always be looming. In light of all that is going on in the world, I am so grateful to even have the chance to choose to give a hug, blow a kiss, offer words of thanks and dance.

Simple Pleasures, Part II

Tonight before the balloon games began (see Simple Pleasures, below), Graham and I had a short, but very sweet, date- a trip to the grocery store. I can't remember the last time we went grocery shopping together; actually I do- it was a trip to Sam's that was only for some grapefruit and I think we came home with a T.V./DVD player for our bedroom. But that's another story... This trip was to stock up on healthy lunches and snacks for Graham to take to work. He has been working out faithfully and been more careful about his diet than his supposed Health Educator wife! We slowly sauntered down each aisle (when was the last time that happened at the store?!), read all the labels, talked, laughed and smiled. How good that felt! As we were headed to the car, we laughed at the fact that this was our first trip to the store as an "old couple"- figuring out the fiber content while having to hold the box a foot away in order to read it. Getting older really is no fun- this flesh and bones temporary house I'm in is not the same one I had even a year ago. I forget things, I fall down the stairs, I suddenly can't read without glasses, I crave more sugar and can't wait for bedtime. BUT, I know more of God's grace and mercy; I love and treasure each smile and story from my children and truly thank God for a husband who shows me love, forgiveness and grace every day of the week. Getting older is yukky, but getting older TOGETHER brings an amazing filling in my soul. It gives joy to my heart and a smile to my face (even if there are wrinkles.....)!

Simple Pleasures

It's amazing what a $1.39 pack of balloons can do. We had to buy a pack for a science experiment sarah was doing on electricity. With one gone, the rest ended up in the kitchen drawer. You would have thought I had stashed gold in there. Each of my children exclaimed, "balloons!", when coming upon them while looking for something else in the drawer. For almost two hours now, these little expandable ovals filled with air have kept all 5 of my children entertained. Annie watched as Sandy and Sarah made up a multitude of games- hit the balloon with your head; hit the balloon with your "insect" finger (as sandy calls her index finger); crawl on the floor and be the first to capture the balloon, etc. The creativity kept coming, rug burn seemed to be the only hazard and little Annie's eyes were captivated. Enter the boys. Now the games get a little rougher and louder. The heat is on. With Annie now in bed and Sandy in the tub, the other three are in fierce competition. No Wii game has ever been so enthralling. As I told them they only had 5 more minutes, the reply was "but Mom we're having fun and we're getting along!" As I write this while it is fresh on my mind, I hear one say "just be quiet and we might get to keep playing!" It really is a joy to put a stop to a game not beacuse there is conflict or someone has been hurt but just because... well, I guess there really is no good reason right this second. I'm off to take a bath and who knows what game will be invented next!

Bob and Helen Trammell, our friends in Fairhope

Loving the Right Things

I have always loved Graham because he has taught me how to love what is most important. Last week we went to visit a friend that he has known for 25 years. He and Bob worked at Bell South together for years. About a year and a half ago Bob was diagnosed with brain cancer. He had just met a wonderful lady and they married and moved to Fairhope just before his diagnosis. He have kept in touch through CaringBridge and decided to go visit them. We were going to stay in a hotel with our clan, but Bob and Helen graciously invited us to stay with them. My first reaction was to decline, but why? the whole point of the visit was to spend time with them, encourage them and let them know that we really appreciate who they are and what they have been through. And what a blessing it was to stay with them. Wonderful food, watching football, playing football, watching Bob play the piano, watching Helen care for them as if they were her own. Relationships take time, energy and a little bit of messiness. As we drove home one of the kids said that they thought we drove all that way to do something- like a vacation. What a joy to explain that the purpose of our visit was all about the people- investing in the lives of others because they are precious in the sight of God. No souvenirs, toys, trips to Wal-Mart- just the delight of being with those you care for. Loving the right things takes time and energy, but I wouldn't trade it for anything.

Happy New Year

2009 in review.

Sarah and Rascal loving the cold!

We started out the year with a big snow!


Griffin got a new Sonic game for his 9th birthday.



Sarah drew this on the sand. She was missing Rascal at home.

At a park at Seaside in August.

Andrew

We surprised Griffin with a trip to Disney. He found out at the airport that he was going. This was his first airplane trip.

Sandy turned 5 and had a mermaid party. Sarah curled her hair and gave her a makeover.

Suzy at the hospital after Annie was born.

Right after Annie was born. We are so thankful for a strong and healthy baby girl. We all were convinced she was going to be a boy! Sarah go to cut the umbilical cord.

Right before our delivery.

Andrew's 7th birthday.

God has truly blessed us with a wonderful family and friends who encourage us to follow and seek Him with all our hearts. We are so thankful for His never-ending love and faithfulness to us. We are undeserving and He is so abundant with His grace and mercy!

Deflated

This is sad but hilarious. Maybe it's my age or just my competitive spirit. Or maybe my sense of inferiority. Whatever the case, I just set up this blog last night and was feeling pretty good that I had finally done something "technological" without the help of my husband or children. I was telling my daughter Sarah about it and she immediately wanted to set up her own blog. Within minutes she had set up her site and written her first post- so cute, fun, full of life and youthfulness. I went off to play a board game with Andrew and Sandy and by the time I finished, she had customized her site with logos, designs and pictures I didn't even know we had. Suddenly I felt very plain, boring and deflated from the night before. What I thought was such a great endeavor was really just a very ordinary task- not really all that great in the big scheme of things. I went to take a hot shower. A hot shower or bath is my get away, where I can either relax or ponder the events of the day, depending on what time it is and what is going on in the house. Some people sing, some just bathe, but I try to let God work in me and on me while I enjoy the warmth, which is probably why my water bill is so high! I started off feeling discouraged- someone "one-upped" me without even knowing it or trying to. I then remembered my Mom and how as an artist she was always encouraging other artists, always putting the focus on them. I realize this is such a small little matter in the big scheme of life, but I think that is where most of life's lessons are learned- in the small things. I realized that I, too, could take my eyes off my feeble little blog- just enjoy it and laugh about it; and encourage Sarah to make hers the best, cutest, most wonderful blog out there. It is just hard to feel like others are always more creative, full of life, younger... fill in the blanks. But thanking God for who I am and how He created me will never be deflating. I just tucked Sandy in and repeated with her the end of her prayer that we say every night, and claimed it for myself as well- "I am made by God, I am a child of God, I am loved by God, I am accepted by God, and that's the Truth!"