I came across this video this morning and it really struck me. Here is Penn, from Penn and Teller, talking about how a man gave him a Bible after one of his shows. The part that really struck a chord with me was when he said, “How much do you have to hate someone to believe that everlasting life is possible and not tell someone about that.” Whoa.
If you have a few minutes to spare, watch this clip. It's powerful.
26 February, 2009
24 February, 2009
Random
Ooops! I misfired on the "publish post" button... so if you are a feed reader, I apologize for the blank post!
There is something so freeing in doing a 'random' post. No subject, no theme, no developed plot... just random.
Thanks for all of the feedback regarding my gym time vs. at home workouts. I've decided to keep the weightlifting at the gym. I just enjoy it so much more there... like I've said before... something about those big shiny mirrors! I did end up buying a pair of New Balance running shoes, so we'll see if I actually make it outside to exercise. Truthfully, I may just have to walk. I'm so clumsy that I tend to wrench my ankle anytime I run on the street/sidewalk combination.
Soccer began yesterday. Practice every Monday and Tuesday from 6:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Games on Saturday. Forget having lazy Saturdays anymore. We'll now be at the soccer field for two games until mid-May. All I have to say is "bring it on"... it is easier to complain, so I choose to embrace it! I welcome the great memories and good times ahead!
Is there such a thing as too much sleep? I wonder...
Since beginning my new job at church I have been subscribing to a bulletin board for people in church marketing. It is very interesting and I love reading all of the ideas that come from it. The other day, someone said that the church should be the leading force in creativity and innovation (as per marketing) because we serve the God of ALL creativity! Isn't that awesome? So true...
Amy over at Living Locurto challenged me to a weekly thrifty find from my local Goodwill. And honestly, I could skip Goodwill for two months and STILL post a thrifty find each week because I have found so many good deals there in recent years. But, because I have been challenged (and I can't resist a challenge) I'll start posting some of my fab finds from Goodwill. Maybe not weekly, but at least 2 times a month. Here is a pair of Express Editor ankle pants I found for $7.99. As you can see, they are brand new! Score! I have these exact pants in black (also from Goodwill) and they are hands down my favorite dress/casual pants. When I found these pants on the rack, it was one of the moments when you look around and think... is this a joke? Why hasn't someone bought these yet? And trust me, when I find stuff like this, God gets the glory for it. (Girls, I pray for favor every day... and if this isn't favor, I don't know what is!)
I leave you today with random pictures from the weekend. First up, Kyla Mae in ther bathing suit and boots. She was determined to put her bathing suit on Saturday and play outside. She did have her coat on, since it was 59 degrees outside.
Here's my sweet Elisan reading on the couch. She may be just like her daddy, loving science and math, so when I see her reading it makes my heart leap with happiness. That is because her mama loves to read!
And finally, this is why I love living with a pasture as my backyard. Although the land is not ours, we get to enjoy the cows for free!
Look at this baby... he still has his downy coat!
There is something so freeing in doing a 'random' post. No subject, no theme, no developed plot... just random.
Thanks for all of the feedback regarding my gym time vs. at home workouts. I've decided to keep the weightlifting at the gym. I just enjoy it so much more there... like I've said before... something about those big shiny mirrors! I did end up buying a pair of New Balance running shoes, so we'll see if I actually make it outside to exercise. Truthfully, I may just have to walk. I'm so clumsy that I tend to wrench my ankle anytime I run on the street/sidewalk combination.
Soccer began yesterday. Practice every Monday and Tuesday from 6:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Games on Saturday. Forget having lazy Saturdays anymore. We'll now be at the soccer field for two games until mid-May. All I have to say is "bring it on"... it is easier to complain, so I choose to embrace it! I welcome the great memories and good times ahead!
Is there such a thing as too much sleep? I wonder...
Since beginning my new job at church I have been subscribing to a bulletin board for people in church marketing. It is very interesting and I love reading all of the ideas that come from it. The other day, someone said that the church should be the leading force in creativity and innovation (as per marketing) because we serve the God of ALL creativity! Isn't that awesome? So true...
Amy over at Living Locurto challenged me to a weekly thrifty find from my local Goodwill. And honestly, I could skip Goodwill for two months and STILL post a thrifty find each week because I have found so many good deals there in recent years. But, because I have been challenged (and I can't resist a challenge) I'll start posting some of my fab finds from Goodwill. Maybe not weekly, but at least 2 times a month. Here is a pair of Express Editor ankle pants I found for $7.99. As you can see, they are brand new! Score! I have these exact pants in black (also from Goodwill) and they are hands down my favorite dress/casual pants. When I found these pants on the rack, it was one of the moments when you look around and think... is this a joke? Why hasn't someone bought these yet? And trust me, when I find stuff like this, God gets the glory for it. (Girls, I pray for favor every day... and if this isn't favor, I don't know what is!)
I leave you today with random pictures from the weekend. First up, Kyla Mae in ther bathing suit and boots. She was determined to put her bathing suit on Saturday and play outside. She did have her coat on, since it was 59 degrees outside. 
Here's my sweet Elisan reading on the couch. She may be just like her daddy, loving science and math, so when I see her reading it makes my heart leap with happiness. That is because her mama loves to read!
And finally, this is why I love living with a pasture as my backyard. Although the land is not ours, we get to enjoy the cows for free!
Look at this baby... he still has his downy coat!
20 February, 2009
Freedom
Oftentimes when speaking to my girlfriends, the topic of submission comes up. If you are a Christian, you know that the Bible says that wives are to submit to their husbands.
What does submit mean? Well, the actual definition of submission is:
1. The act of submitting to the power of another;
2. The state of being submissive or compliant; meekness.
I know that this idea makes some women's skin crawl! The act of submitting to a man could possibly be the most revolting thing some women have ever heard... but here's my take.
With submission, comes freedom.
What?
Yes... freedom.
By 'giving up' the power to my husband, I am free (or have freedom) to act in my role as a mother, wife, friend, mentor --freely! I no longer have to live outside of my role by trying to be all of those things and also the role that God intended for man.
Don't get me wrong, because we have a marriage relationship that is Christ led, he honors me as his wife. That same verse that says, "wives submit to your husbands"; well, the second part of that passage is "husbands love your wives as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up to her." So, when I submit to my husband I am doing it out of honor and respect. And consequently, he loves me unconditionally. It is a partnership and I'm here to say, it works.
It is the same freedom we experience when we give our lives to Christ and allow him to take control of our lives. When we accept Jesus as our savior, submit obediently and unconditionally to Him, we have the freedom to live. That's why He died on the cross for us. For our freedom!
So girls, I guess what I'm trying to say is this: Stop trying to do the job you were not intended to do. And, if you are "stuck" playing both parts because your man is not acting within his role, then pray that God begin to move in his life to become the leader of your household - both physical and spiritual.
Much love,
Erica
P.S. - I am almost positive this may generate negative comments and I'm cool with that. But know that at the end of the day, this is my blog and I reserve the right to delete comments that are not encouraging to the reader.
What does submit mean? Well, the actual definition of submission is:
1. The act of submitting to the power of another;
2. The state of being submissive or compliant; meekness.
I know that this idea makes some women's skin crawl! The act of submitting to a man could possibly be the most revolting thing some women have ever heard... but here's my take.
With submission, comes freedom.
What?
Yes... freedom.
By 'giving up' the power to my husband, I am free (or have freedom) to act in my role as a mother, wife, friend, mentor --freely! I no longer have to live outside of my role by trying to be all of those things and also the role that God intended for man.
Don't get me wrong, because we have a marriage relationship that is Christ led, he honors me as his wife. That same verse that says, "wives submit to your husbands"; well, the second part of that passage is "husbands love your wives as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up to her." So, when I submit to my husband I am doing it out of honor and respect. And consequently, he loves me unconditionally. It is a partnership and I'm here to say, it works.
It is the same freedom we experience when we give our lives to Christ and allow him to take control of our lives. When we accept Jesus as our savior, submit obediently and unconditionally to Him, we have the freedom to live. That's why He died on the cross for us. For our freedom!
So girls, I guess what I'm trying to say is this: Stop trying to do the job you were not intended to do. And, if you are "stuck" playing both parts because your man is not acting within his role, then pray that God begin to move in his life to become the leader of your household - both physical and spiritual.
Much love,
Erica
P.S. - I am almost positive this may generate negative comments and I'm cool with that. But know that at the end of the day, this is my blog and I reserve the right to delete comments that are not encouraging to the reader.
18 February, 2009
What's a gal to do?
So the reality is that I have less time to spend at the gym these days. My gym time used to begin at 8:30 a.m., but since I began working, I try to squeeze in an hour at the gym after work before I pick up the girls from school.
And because I only have an hour, I have to choose... weight lifting or cardio. The truth is, we have all of the weight equipment I could possibly want to use here at the house because Randy works out at home. But, the reality is that I have only used it 4-5 times. (Whiny voice...) It's just not the same as the gym weights. And the gym also has the fabulous cardio machines that I love! The stair climber and the elliptical are my two favorites.
So, I'm torn... do I start weight lifting here and do cardio at the gym? Or lift weights at the gym and drag my bottom outside to run?
See, the problem with me running outside? Well, I hate to run. I loathe it. Oh, sure, I ran track in school, but c'mon, that was over 20 years ago. Besides, I only ran the sprinting races like the 400 yd relay, 100yd dash and the 100yd hurdles. I also ran the one mile relay but by the end of my lap around the track I was sucking wind so bad that I thought I would pass out... or throw up. Seriously, it was that bad.
The fact remains... I am not a long distance runner...never have been, never will be. But, running is free. It is efficient. It is effective. So, I wonder... should I give it another go? Keep the weight lifting at the gym and run in the neighborhood? Or keep the cardio at the gym and lift weights at home?
Any thoughts from you runners out there? Oh, and don't go tell me to buy a pair of running shoes that are over $75.00. It just ain't gonna happen...
And because I only have an hour, I have to choose... weight lifting or cardio. The truth is, we have all of the weight equipment I could possibly want to use here at the house because Randy works out at home. But, the reality is that I have only used it 4-5 times. (Whiny voice...) It's just not the same as the gym weights. And the gym also has the fabulous cardio machines that I love! The stair climber and the elliptical are my two favorites.
So, I'm torn... do I start weight lifting here and do cardio at the gym? Or lift weights at the gym and drag my bottom outside to run?
See, the problem with me running outside? Well, I hate to run. I loathe it. Oh, sure, I ran track in school, but c'mon, that was over 20 years ago. Besides, I only ran the sprinting races like the 400 yd relay, 100yd dash and the 100yd hurdles. I also ran the one mile relay but by the end of my lap around the track I was sucking wind so bad that I thought I would pass out... or throw up. Seriously, it was that bad.
The fact remains... I am not a long distance runner...never have been, never will be. But, running is free. It is efficient. It is effective. So, I wonder... should I give it another go? Keep the weight lifting at the gym and run in the neighborhood? Or keep the cardio at the gym and lift weights at home?
Any thoughts from you runners out there? Oh, and don't go tell me to buy a pair of running shoes that are over $75.00. It just ain't gonna happen...
16 February, 2009
Weekend Wrap Up
Hello World! How was your weekend? We had a good weekend. Nothing too spectacular, but nice all around!Saturday was spent doing piles and piles (and piles) of laundry from the entire week! Since I began working, I don't have the time (or effort or energy) to do laundry in the afternoons, so I've allowed it to pile up until Saturday. I'm not jazzed about spending the entire Saturday doing laundry, but it is a sacrifice I'm willing to make!
Randy gave us girls our Valentine's day goodies. He got the girls both a shirt and a box of chocolates. Yum for me! Um, I mean...yum for them! He got me an iTunes gift card which is pretty cool b/c I was just browsing iTunes for some cool new workout music. I love the hour long cardio re-mixes that are played in step classes. I want to buy something like that, but everything I find on iTunes is lame. Does anyone have any suggestions on where to find a really cool (preferably 90's music!) cardio remix?
Later that afternoon, we took a family trip to Sam's. Yes, we are so much fun, I know. You are jealous, aren't you? I'm glad Randy takes these trips with me because we spent $175.00 and only bought a handful of items. It is shocking to him and I'm glad. See, the thing is... I can spend well over $200.00 a week on groceries. He never complains about it, but I know he has to wonder why I spend so much money every week. I spend that much money because I cook every night. Well, every night, with the exception of Saturday night... that is our family date night. Plus, I make four lunches Monday through Friday and that adds up quick! So, realistically, spending $200.00 is pretty awesome, I'd say!
After our trip to Sam's, we had dinner at Jason's Deli, one of my favorite restaurants of all time and ate waaaay too much, but I ordered the salad bar, so that's 'okay', right?
Sunday we went to church and it was awesome! Later that day, I brought the girls on a shopping excursion to spend the $5.00 they received from their Granna and Grand-d for Valentine's day. I was so proud of them... They combined their money and bought a together gift to make their money go further. Now, that takes maturity! Let's see how that works out for them in the long run... Here's hoping it does!
Sunday night was finished off with me volunteering in the church nursery. Time flies by when you are in a room with 8 infants! Whew! It was fun, but quickly reminds me how time consuming teeny tiny babies are. It also reminds me that I'm very content with my 5 and 7 year old girls!
Today is President's day and the girls are out of school for this holiday. I'm missing work today, but will make up my time on Friday (the day that I am usually off). I love my job in that I have some flexibility. It makes a difference to our family when I can be there for my girls. Plus, it makes my going back to work an easy transition for them. We're very blessed!
Speaking of the girls being out of school today... I promised them a picnic and a day in the park, but looking outside, it looks icky! I may end up resorting to a trip to McDonald's instead. Trust me, they'd be just as happy with going to McD's as they would be going to the park. Especially since we hardly ever go there anymore. Something about eating a french fry and having an aftertaste that lasts a little too long...
On that note... have a great President's day!
14 February, 2009
13 February, 2009
25 Random Things about Me
Most of my facebook friends have "tagged" me to do this, but I have relented in doing this until now! Why not blow 20 minutes coming up with random stuff about me. Some of this you already know...
1. I have worn glasses since I was in the first grade. Party on...
2. I have never liked my name, Erica... or my middle name, Larenda.
3. I love to Karaoke. My favorite song to sing is "What's Up" by 4 Non Blondes.
4. My husband and I rarely fight. If we do, it is because I pick the fight.
5. And it is usually when I have a raging case of PMS. (PMS is not an excuse... it is real, very real!)
6. I love to eat hot wings. If they weren't so high in fat, I'd eat them every week.
7. I lived in Denmark for 7 months. It was the worst and best time of my life.
8. Y2K freaked me out.
9. I ran the hurdles and short distance relays and races in highschool.
10. I hate to run.
11. I love to lift weights. I would love to look like Jillian, the personal trainer on Biggest Loser.
12. I don't like BBQ. My husband says I am not a true Texan.
13. I am a true Texan and proud of it... I like Mexican food... does that count?
14. I was the editor of my school newspaper in high school.
15. I have a Criminal Justice degree.
16. I have held two professional licenses - Claims Adjuster and Realtor.
17. I hated insurance and real estate.
18. We are debt free... completely and 100% debt free, including owning our house outright!
19. I love to read, but can't find the time. I have resorted to books on CD while I drive.
20. I am addicted to email.
21. I buy most of my clothes at Goodwill. Shhhhh, that is a secret!
22. Did I mention that I am thrifty? A tightwad? Frugal? Cheap?
23. My husband is the funniest person I know. However, I am the only person who knows this.
24. My girls are best friends. I pray they stay that way.
25. This took longer than twenty minutes. Now, I'm running late.
1. I have worn glasses since I was in the first grade. Party on...
2. I have never liked my name, Erica... or my middle name, Larenda.
3. I love to Karaoke. My favorite song to sing is "What's Up" by 4 Non Blondes.
4. My husband and I rarely fight. If we do, it is because I pick the fight.
5. And it is usually when I have a raging case of PMS. (PMS is not an excuse... it is real, very real!)
6. I love to eat hot wings. If they weren't so high in fat, I'd eat them every week.
7. I lived in Denmark for 7 months. It was the worst and best time of my life.
8. Y2K freaked me out.
9. I ran the hurdles and short distance relays and races in highschool.
10. I hate to run.
11. I love to lift weights. I would love to look like Jillian, the personal trainer on Biggest Loser.
12. I don't like BBQ. My husband says I am not a true Texan.
13. I am a true Texan and proud of it... I like Mexican food... does that count?
14. I was the editor of my school newspaper in high school.
15. I have a Criminal Justice degree.
16. I have held two professional licenses - Claims Adjuster and Realtor.
17. I hated insurance and real estate.
18. We are debt free... completely and 100% debt free, including owning our house outright!
19. I love to read, but can't find the time. I have resorted to books on CD while I drive.
20. I am addicted to email.
21. I buy most of my clothes at Goodwill. Shhhhh, that is a secret!
22. Did I mention that I am thrifty? A tightwad? Frugal? Cheap?
23. My husband is the funniest person I know. However, I am the only person who knows this.
24. My girls are best friends. I pray they stay that way.
25. This took longer than twenty minutes. Now, I'm running late.
12 February, 2009
11 February, 2009
Boy Gentleman
This morning as the girls hopped out of the vehicle and raced to the front door of the school, a young man who had to be about 10 years old was waiting for them so he could hold open the door for them to enter the building.
If I had to say one thing about the school I send my kids to is this... they teach manners! I have had more doors opened for me by little boys at that school than I have in my recent memory of grown men in public. Isn't that awesome? A school that teaches young boys to be respectful? To have manners? What a novel concept! But, it's not just the boys... it's the girls too. Saying yes ma'am and no ma'am, yes sir and no sir are not only taught, it is expected! I love that what we teach our kids at home is also being taught in school.
I hope manners never go out of style!
If I had to say one thing about the school I send my kids to is this... they teach manners! I have had more doors opened for me by little boys at that school than I have in my recent memory of grown men in public. Isn't that awesome? A school that teaches young boys to be respectful? To have manners? What a novel concept! But, it's not just the boys... it's the girls too. Saying yes ma'am and no ma'am, yes sir and no sir are not only taught, it is expected! I love that what we teach our kids at home is also being taught in school.
I hope manners never go out of style!
Oh insurance... why has thou forsaken me?
Back in June, I was diagnosed with "moderate" hearing loss. This week, I got a call from my Ear, Nose and Throat doctor's office about a 9 month follow up appointment to get my hearing re-checked and evaluated to determine if there have been any changes.
But... I can't go. When Randy changed jobs back in July our insurance changed. The new insurance does not cover any hearing related exams, testing or devices. What? How is that possible? I would think that hearing is kind've important , don'tcha think? And paying out of pocket is not possible since the hearing test that was done in June cost over $2K. Don't even get me started on the high dollar expense of hearing aids! They are about $5K for a set!
Truthfully though... even if my hearing has gotten progressively worse in the last nine months, I'm not to the hearing aid level yet. So, realistically, getting my hearing checked would be for informational purposes only.
I will say that my hearing impairment is really a drag. I do notice more and more how I don't hear things they way that I should. While I know someone is speaking, I can't always make out what they are saying. It's like garbled goop to my ears. Blah!
Gaining some perspective: I'm just blessed to be able to hear at all! Garbled or not...
But... I can't go. When Randy changed jobs back in July our insurance changed. The new insurance does not cover any hearing related exams, testing or devices. What? How is that possible? I would think that hearing is kind've important , don'tcha think? And paying out of pocket is not possible since the hearing test that was done in June cost over $2K. Don't even get me started on the high dollar expense of hearing aids! They are about $5K for a set!
Truthfully though... even if my hearing has gotten progressively worse in the last nine months, I'm not to the hearing aid level yet. So, realistically, getting my hearing checked would be for informational purposes only.
I will say that my hearing impairment is really a drag. I do notice more and more how I don't hear things they way that I should. While I know someone is speaking, I can't always make out what they are saying. It's like garbled goop to my ears. Blah!
Gaining some perspective: I'm just blessed to be able to hear at all! Garbled or not...
10 February, 2009
Valentine's Cards
This year, I veered away from creating photo Valentine's cards as I've done in the past for the girls. This year I created actual cards for them to trade.
Since Kyla is in PK and cannot read, I went on ahead made her card ready to pass out to friends. I saw this little owl on a melamine plate at Target and thought it was cute. Re-creating it was a snap! I love the little heart feathers on it's chest!
Since Elisan is older, I knew she'd want to be able to write the names of her friends on the card. So, I added a box for her to do that. This card idea was inspired from an American Greetings card. It was also a snap to re-create! I loved making the cute lady bug and butterfly! So cute! However the first creation did not have enough hearts on it, so Elisan asked me to add hearts to the center of the flowers too!
I brought them to Kinko's for high-quality printing on card stock paper. I was able to put 4x/page and the cost was only $1.25 per sheet. Not bad and much nicer than the store bought cards!
Although not my original inspired ideas, I thought the cards turned out really cute!
Since Kyla is in PK and cannot read, I went on ahead made her card ready to pass out to friends. I saw this little owl on a melamine plate at Target and thought it was cute. Re-creating it was a snap! I love the little heart feathers on it's chest!
Since Elisan is older, I knew she'd want to be able to write the names of her friends on the card. So, I added a box for her to do that. This card idea was inspired from an American Greetings card. It was also a snap to re-create! I loved making the cute lady bug and butterfly! So cute! However the first creation did not have enough hearts on it, so Elisan asked me to add hearts to the center of the flowers too!
I brought them to Kinko's for high-quality printing on card stock paper. I was able to put 4x/page and the cost was only $1.25 per sheet. Not bad and much nicer than the store bought cards!
Although not my original inspired ideas, I thought the cards turned out really cute!
07 February, 2009
Valentine's Tea Party Fun
The girls had such a great time today. We had 10 girls over today for our second annual Valentine's Day Tea Party. Each girl brought a craft item to share and they made cards. Afterwards, they snacked on cookies, cupcakes and lemonade! The tea didn't go over well! Go figure!
This is a great party for my girls and I think we'll host another one next year!
This is a great party for my girls and I think we'll host another one next year!
06 February, 2009
Guidance
My dad has lived his life full of physical pain. From the time he was a little boy he was diagnosed with a disease called Perthes. Basically the femur ball at the hip joint dies from lack of blood flow and the bone grind against the hip socket. He walked on crutches for several years as a child because of it. Since then, he has had a full hip replacement, which included lengthening this leg because he walked with a severe limp all of his life.
My dad has had cancer. He was diagnosed with prostate cancer in his early 50's which is a very young age for this type of cancer in men. He has lived cancer free since then. He is fortunate enough to receive his care from M.D. Anderson and has a phenomenal doctor. He sees her regularly for blood work and bone scans to make sure the cancer is kept at bay.
My dad has had a heart attack. He has also had angioplasty at least two times in his heart.
My dad suffers from neuropathy, which is a nerve disease that causes intense pain. He experiences pain when he sits, stands, walks... whatever he does... he is in constant pain.
About two weeks ago, my dad had a stroke. Thank the Lord it was "mild" and he recovered from the episode within a few hours. My mom, who is an R.N. was with him and was able to immediately determine what was going on. They are being referred to a neurologist as I write today to determine what his next step is.
I guess I write all of this to say that I can't imagine living the life that my father has lived. He has had his fair share of pain and suffering and to be honest, I only listed the big stuff. There are a lot of little things, health wise, that he has had to deal with over the course of his life... stuff that honestly, will wear anyone down to the point of screaming out... "WHY ME, GOD?"
And, don't think for a second he hasn't done that very thing.
I'm reminded of Paul the Apostle who lived with a "thorn" in his flesh. The Bible is not clear as to what that suffering was - whether is was physical, mental, spiritual... but Paul asked God to heal him three times and God did not heal him. While Paul was able to perform healing miracles, he himself was left without healing. To a person who doesn't have Jesus in their life may wonder what kind of God would do that to their beloved apostle. But what Paul's sufferings taught him was to rely on God.
I can honestly say that my dad, no matter what the circumstances has always turned his heart to God and sought after Him. He may not understand and may enter into a period of mourning and sadness, but he eventually will look to God and rely on Him to carry him through.
I don't know why my dad has been afflicted the way that he has been throughout his life, but God knows the purpose and the reason. I pray that my dad remain steadfast, seek God's guidance and praise Him, even in this desert place.
My dad has had cancer. He was diagnosed with prostate cancer in his early 50's which is a very young age for this type of cancer in men. He has lived cancer free since then. He is fortunate enough to receive his care from M.D. Anderson and has a phenomenal doctor. He sees her regularly for blood work and bone scans to make sure the cancer is kept at bay.
My dad has had a heart attack. He has also had angioplasty at least two times in his heart.
My dad suffers from neuropathy, which is a nerve disease that causes intense pain. He experiences pain when he sits, stands, walks... whatever he does... he is in constant pain.
About two weeks ago, my dad had a stroke. Thank the Lord it was "mild" and he recovered from the episode within a few hours. My mom, who is an R.N. was with him and was able to immediately determine what was going on. They are being referred to a neurologist as I write today to determine what his next step is.
I guess I write all of this to say that I can't imagine living the life that my father has lived. He has had his fair share of pain and suffering and to be honest, I only listed the big stuff. There are a lot of little things, health wise, that he has had to deal with over the course of his life... stuff that honestly, will wear anyone down to the point of screaming out... "WHY ME, GOD?"
And, don't think for a second he hasn't done that very thing.
I'm reminded of Paul the Apostle who lived with a "thorn" in his flesh. The Bible is not clear as to what that suffering was - whether is was physical, mental, spiritual... but Paul asked God to heal him three times and God did not heal him. While Paul was able to perform healing miracles, he himself was left without healing. To a person who doesn't have Jesus in their life may wonder what kind of God would do that to their beloved apostle. But what Paul's sufferings taught him was to rely on God.
I can honestly say that my dad, no matter what the circumstances has always turned his heart to God and sought after Him. He may not understand and may enter into a period of mourning and sadness, but he eventually will look to God and rely on Him to carry him through.
I don't know why my dad has been afflicted the way that he has been throughout his life, but God knows the purpose and the reason. I pray that my dad remain steadfast, seek God's guidance and praise Him, even in this desert place.
04 February, 2009
My shadow
It's no secret that Elisan prefers her Daddy over me. And really, the are so much alike, I'm not surprised or upset over this. In fact, I think it's great they get along so well.
And, it's no surprise that Kyla Mae prefers my company. Maybe because Elisan dominates her Daddy's time and Kyla Mae is left with me. Who knows... nonetheless, through the years Kyla Mae and I have cultivated a sweet loving Mommy/Daughter relationship. Honestly, I absolutely love the special bond we share.
Now, don't get me wrong... I'm not showing favoritism... not in the least. Elisan and I have a wonderful bond too. Kyla and I are just more alike, just as Randy and Elisan are more alike.
Lately, KM has been my littlest shadow. She follows me around the house and wants my undivided attention. Two times this week, she has hung out in the bathroom while I've taken a shower just so she can be in the same room as me. Her favorite time of the day is when we all pile on the couch at night to watch TV before bed. She'll make up "our" spot with a pillow and a blanket so we can snuggle together for 30 minutes before bedtime.
I love it!
I want to remember this time in my life. Time speeds by so quickly that we often forget the little things that bring us joy. I hope by writing this down, KM will remember these times too.
And, it's no surprise that Kyla Mae prefers my company. Maybe because Elisan dominates her Daddy's time and Kyla Mae is left with me. Who knows... nonetheless, through the years Kyla Mae and I have cultivated a sweet loving Mommy/Daughter relationship. Honestly, I absolutely love the special bond we share.
Now, don't get me wrong... I'm not showing favoritism... not in the least. Elisan and I have a wonderful bond too. Kyla and I are just more alike, just as Randy and Elisan are more alike.
Lately, KM has been my littlest shadow. She follows me around the house and wants my undivided attention. Two times this week, she has hung out in the bathroom while I've taken a shower just so she can be in the same room as me. Her favorite time of the day is when we all pile on the couch at night to watch TV before bed. She'll make up "our" spot with a pillow and a blanket so we can snuggle together for 30 minutes before bedtime.
I love it!
I want to remember this time in my life. Time speeds by so quickly that we often forget the little things that bring us joy. I hope by writing this down, KM will remember these times too.
02 February, 2009
Teacher's Pet
Today on the way home from school Elisan told me her job this week was "Police Patrol". She went on to say that her job was to tell the teacher the names of all of the kids who talked when they were in the hallway, walking to and from other classes and when the teacher had to step out of the classroom.
She was very proud of her 'job' and told me that she reported to the teacher the names of four kids who were talking when they were not supposed to.
I couldn't help but snicker a bit... I mean, don't you remember those days vividly? The kid who was always left "in charge" when the teacher left the room? I remember NEVER wanting to be that kid. Ever! But, true to form, Elisan loved the power and executed her duties flawlessly.
I don't know where she got that from... maybe there is a mutant gene somewhere down the line.
She was very proud of her 'job' and told me that she reported to the teacher the names of four kids who were talking when they were not supposed to.
I couldn't help but snicker a bit... I mean, don't you remember those days vividly? The kid who was always left "in charge" when the teacher left the room? I remember NEVER wanting to be that kid. Ever! But, true to form, Elisan loved the power and executed her duties flawlessly.
I don't know where she got that from... maybe there is a mutant gene somewhere down the line.
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