tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10415326129735225812024-03-12T18:13:36.248-05:00Beach Gardens"Everything in the heavens and earth is yours, O Lord, and this is your kingdom. We adore you as being in control of everything. Riches and honor come from you alone, and you are the Ruler of all mankind; your hand controls power and might and it is at your discretion that men are made great and given strength" -1 Chronicles 29:11-12Beach Mommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06754796033512210679noreply@blogger.comBlogger890125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1041532612973522581.post-75160477450779466532015-08-05T10:07:00.000-05:002015-08-05T10:07:01.493-05:00New seasons, New things, a few changes... Life can be hard and difficult. I considered staying here at Beach Gardens. But the memories, right now are just difficult. The journey I am on, I just don't want to share on this blog. I don't know how to explain it, but I am in a new season. It is needs its own journal, its own place. I hope one day to come back... But for everything there is a season, this season I am over here at <a href="http://faithfullyleaningandcounting.blogspot.com/">Faithfully Leaning and Counting</a>. Consider visiting me sometime and take a peek at what I am <a href="http://faithfullyleaningandcounting.blogspot.com/2015/07/starting-over.html">learning</a> and doing. I am still "under construction" because I have to relearn much.. and it takes time. I am getting there though. <br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54486/396/297FB7AF57F9698E731FD20BBD7A5D7F.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Beach Mommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06754796033512210679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1041532612973522581.post-6005763310033283232015-06-11T13:37:00.000-05:002015-06-11T13:37:28.811-05:00Forgiveness is immediate, Reconciliation takes timeI love studying God's Word and listening to what others are learning. (Hebrews 10:25) It proves over and over how active and living and applicable the Bible is today for every occasion. (Acts 4:12) Most recently, I listened to a lesson on Acts 9:23-31. The discussion was about Barnabas. In the journey of repentance and reconciliation it is important to have at least one Barnabas in your life. Forgiveness is a given. It is mandated by God. However, reconciliation is not required. Reconciliation it dependent on repentance and a process. Repentance takes time, it means changing behavior and thought patterns. That takes time and practice. When serious offences have happened and trust is deeply broken, it takes time for healing to occur and for there to be enough evidence to prove a heart change has occurred. A Barnabas can be helpful. God demonstrates through Barnabas how important the role of (a) Barnabas is in the lives of believers. God understands wounded hearts and mistrust. So with some scholarly insight and history lessons, we learn 3 years have passed since Jesus revealed himself to Saul on the road to Damascus. Saul now finds himself back in Jerusalem where he first persecuted the Christians without mercy. They didn't trust him. (verse 26-they were afraid of Saul) So Barnabas spoke on his behalf. Barnabas was able to "testify" on Saul's behalf. Which led to these three key points on how to be a Barnabas:<br />
1. Willing to listen to a person's story. 2. Willing to check out their story (verify facts). 3. Willing to trust God. <br />
Being a Barnabas isn't easy. It means giving time. Time to listen. Time to research. Time to observe and see the changes in a life as a result of repentance. It, also, means being willing to step up and speak on behalf of a person when it might be unpopular. Done well, though, so much could possibly happen for building up the kingdom of God. I can't help but remember the scripture that encourages being quick to listen and slow to speak. In His time God reveals. <br />
Just a huge encouragement to me these past weeks. As I walk through a difficult season, and I know the things God whispers to my heart. I know the Scriptures He leads me to. He took all the pieces and wrapped the up and confirmed I was hearing Him teach my heart, through this person's words. <br />
Forgiveness is required and needs to be immediate. Reconciliation is a process and takes time. <br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54486/396/297FB7AF57F9698E731FD20BBD7A5D7F.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Beach Mommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06754796033512210679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1041532612973522581.post-72410206005093134372015-04-17T22:41:00.001-05:002015-04-20T09:15:38.182-05:00SleepIQ Technology<br />
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Yesterday, I had a few extra minutes and decided to complete my <a href="http://h5.sml360.com/-/ux7u">Smiley360 Mission</a> at Sleep Number. </div>
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The only thing that could have made the experience better is if I had been able to actually take a nap. The beds are super comfy. They picked the perfect pillow for me and once I was at my number, which is 25, I was ready to nap. The technology was interesting, but the warranty and replacement policy really got me excited. Since the beds are not the typical foam and spring mattress, the outer layer unzips. "Pieces" can be replaced as needed. He gave me a peek inside. Wow! </div>
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Being a mother, I instantly worried that with all the gizmos and technology put in the bed that it would become very impractical in a home with bouncing children. The sales person reassured me that the bed could withstand 500 pounds. So a couple of children jumping on the bed would not be a danger. Even better. </div>
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I am definitely going to keep Sleep Number in mind for when it is time to replace my bed. </div>
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For now, I am looking forward to blessing my oldest son with the Sleep Number 2" Memory Fiber Curved Support Pillow we will be receiving as a thank you for completing this mission. </div>
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Beach Mommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06754796033512210679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1041532612973522581.post-9151270725068828862015-02-19T14:06:00.000-06:002015-02-19T14:06:37.125-06:00Forgiveness, Mercy, Grace and Reconciliation are steps to eternity...It has taken some time to decide if this is a post I wanted to share. It is a peek into my heart. A summary of some life lessons over the last 30 years. Then, there have been the recent conversations with various kiddos, discussions about what lessons can we learn from each experience, because God can use everything. In each experience, we can choose to be bitter or better. Then, the encouraging words from one of the few people I shared this post with, I just want to give them a glimpse of the work God has and is doing in my heart because they see me walking a hard road. The final bit of encouragement came when discussing those lessons that can be gleaned from each experience with my kiddo(s) and God whispered in my heart that sometimes, they aren't new lessons but "drills." Much like math drills and fire drills. The kind that keep your skills sharp and honed. It isn't about learning the lesson so you don't have to learn it again. Our Spiritual skills need to be practiced and honed in such a way, that we develop "spiritual muscle memory". So our first response/reaction is what Jesus would literally do, extend grace, forgiveness, patience, mercy, understanding, kindness. So here goes...<br />
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In my quiet and prayer time as I wrestled out yet another issue with God, He whispered a memory from my adolescent/teen years. <br />
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It was a season, I loved to read. I read anything I could get my hands on. I especially liked Reader's Digest and Guidepost. Fortunately, my mom was willing to renew the subscriptions for me for years. I have no idea if she ever read them, but I did, cover to cover. This memory God whispered was of a story of a man who forgave the murderer of his child. Not only did he forgive the murderer, but he would eventually begin to visit the prison. He developed a relationship with the person who tore his family apart, shared the Gospel and eventually led him to Christ. When it came to the time for his release, he was there and welcomed him into his new life as a free man and into his home. The memory God whispered was the silent prayer in my very naïve teen heart...I want to be that kind of Christian. A noble prayer for a young, un-experienced in life teenager.<br />
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But God didn't stop there. Because before He started down the memory lane with me, He was reminding me of His Word. You see there was Saul (Paul). He was despicable. He persecuted Christians, until God shook things up and got his attention. Saul (Paul) who eventually led many to Christ, shared the Gospel, suffered for his faithfulness to Jesus. He became the persecuted and counted it joy. But there is another story that fits right in the middle of there, maybe not chronologically, but fit it does...the point where there is sinning, recognition and repentance happens. It is the story of the Prodigal Son. At the point when he is in the pit of his sin and God reveals to him His love, grace and mercy. Saul (Paul) returns to his Creator (Father). A celebration happened, and not every one was happy about it either. <br />
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God started showing me that although the "stories" in His Word don't reveal all that was happening at that given moment, when looked together as a whole and individually, you can get a pretty good grasp of humanity from all different perspectives. We all sin and are in the muck of it when God grabs the opportunity to get our attention, He offers us the possibility of returning HOME because working for Him is better than eating after the pigs. He will celebrate and rejoice on our return, while some will grumble. They might grumble because they fail to see all sin is sin...they may grumble because they have forgotten where they were once before, or maybe they don't want to remember. Or they may grumble because they are in the season of realizing the importance of making good choices and the consequences of not doing so and their focus is so intense on these new convictions they are unable to step back and see all the different "projects" God has happening. It is easy to not realize we are all in different stages and the lessons of life do not happen in a particular order. As a result, sometimes others are unable to rejoice at the time. But Saul (Paul) and the prodigal son don't allow concern for what others will do or say stop them, they listen to God and trust Him and move forward. It is so easy to just look at one story and see the "simple" lesson revealed. You can ask yourself am I the prodigal son? the brother? the father? Am I Saul, the murderer and persecutor? Or am I the persecuted? How does this apply to me today? All very good questions. But looked at together, you see the same story being repeated from different perspectives, with different words but speaking the same message of forgiveness, mercy, grace and reconciliation. <br />
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And I consider the memory of the naïve heart that says, I hope I can be that kind of person if I ever were to find myself in a situation like "that." Easy to think as a teenager, because that is the season of invincibility and nothing like that will truly happen. Translated it looks like being a kind, generous, tender hearted and noble person. To be that kind of person the father was, to have that kind of heart, means a special kind of journey. One that is not easy. The story makes it all look so neat and tidy. It doesn't give a lot of background. The story fits neatly in just a few pages, and is inspiring. Faith like that father's is a process. He has been in the pit with the pigs. He knows forgiveness. He knows what it is like to be not forgiven and to be forgiven. He knows estrangement and reconciliation. He also knows grief and loss. He knows anger and the desire for life to not be so hard. He has wrestled with the letting go and not having control. He knows the love of His Heavenly Father and to who He belongs. But he doesn't just know these things, these things were wrestled out with His God. It isn't a humanly natural thing to embrace the murderer of your child. Not when you are faced with daily reminders of what will never be experienced. Not even when you fast forward into the future and are faced with the grandchildren you will never have and all your friends are sharing the pictures and stories of theirs, and there is a twinge and longing that dares to surface. A voice that begs to remind you of what was lost and an inner discipline that chooses to not look at what was lost but at what has been gained. An inner discipline to choose to have an eternal perspective in the midst of a mortal life. There was a soul searching, on your knees with God work being done process. It didn't just happen in the days after the murder. It was the sum of his life experiences and walk with the Lord from whenever it started. Forgiveness, mercy, grace and reconciliation are learned through experience. They are practiced in the little things when we recognize our own guiltiness of doing the same things. They are stretched and strengthened through the tougher challenges and are only possible because of God and His love for us. Then when a day comes and you are faced with what many would declare, "you are perfectly in your own right to practice some but not all four of those acts," you realize that in of yourself you can't, but in God you can. You can release the person, the situation into God's very capable hands because He loves each and every one of His creations. Each and everyone of His children and they were fearfully and wonderfully and uniquely made. If He could use Saul (Paul), then it isn't for me or you to say He can't use this too. It isn't easy, but all that practice of turning it over to God is what has been training me/you for this day. It is possible. While many may ponder and wonder, a simple truth I learned not so terribly long ago is what I reflect on, His Grace is sufficient for each of us in the measure we need it for each circumstance. His Grace, His Manna, He provides for each of us according to our need, each and every day.<br />
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And then God fast forwards me to the story of the father who made a hard choice. His son and son's friend were in the sea and there was only one life preserver. Only one could be saved. His son, knew Jesus well. His friend did not. He made the choice of eternity. His son, entered eternity with his Savior and the friend, as a result, experienced forgiveness, mercy, grace and reconciliation.<br />
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Then He reminds me of the season of nightmares. The kind that shook this very young, at the time, momma to her knees. Always the same theme... Persecution at its worst in my dreams. Prayers to God to take the dreams away. Then asking what it is He wants me to know or learn? In these nightmares, I face a choice. A choice that demands I deny Christ or my child/children will be killed or tortured in front of me till I submit....the scenario always a little different. I. Just. Can't. Deny. My. Savior. and I always wake up at the point where I am looking in their eyes wanting them to understand why. Why I can't save them. Why I can't deny my Lord and Savior. What bothered me the most was the question, do they understand why? Do they understand I love them with all my heart, but this one thing I can not do for them? I asked God how could I face such a horrific moment and my children not feel rejected, not cry out in anger and rage and rebellion. How to prevent them from becoming angry and rejecting HIM themselves and not be bitter from my choice. Then He whispered this answer: Live your life in such a way that they know. They know you love them. They know you love Me. Teach them, mentor them, raise them up in Me and then you have nothing to worry about because I will take care of the rest. Raise them up with an eternal perspective. I work all things for good for those who love Me. He taught me to focus on forgiveness, mercy, grace and reconciliation. To look with an eternal perspective, knowing that God works all things together for His Glory... and in the end, that is what happens when we all gather together in eternity, we give Him the Glory. <br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54486/396/297FB7AF57F9698E731FD20BBD7A5D7F.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Beach Mommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06754796033512210679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1041532612973522581.post-1801176861070714692015-01-20T00:10:00.002-06:002015-01-20T00:10:30.045-06:00Think... Another new thing in our house AND it is working in UnexpectedWays!!<br />
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I have heard this acronym over the years. But several months ago, it was revisited in our house. </div>
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Before that even happened, last summer became the summer of "stop and think." </div>
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Kids were doing crazy, reckless things and oopsie daisies were happening and I thought I was going to go bald from pulling my hair out before I ever turned gray! </div>
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A kiddo, a dear sweet lady and I visited about this months ago...it was like aha light bulbs went off. Life was good. Then fast forward and some of my kids hit new stages in personalities, quirks and behaviors. The kind that can blind side a mother and she has NO. IDEA. HOW. TO. RESPOND. It is wrong, but how to explain it? How to teach something different? Some concepts are big and vague and hard to explain to kids. Hard for adults to discuss, there is just a knowing. </div>
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So visiting with this dear sweet lady and she remembers "THINK" from our months ago conversation. HUGE LIGHT BULB moment. LIFE. HAS. NOT. BEEN. THE. SAME. in a very good way. </div>
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All the kids have been taught it. When there is an annoyance, we just say "Think." Sometimes, it is pretty easy to figure out, but other times it takes some thinking. </div>
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Is it True? is pretty clear cut. </div>
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Is it Helpful? or sometimes Is it Honest? There is a difference between True and Honest sometimes. </div>
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Is it Inspired? but that can be difficult for a kid to grasp the concept of so we added Is it Important? </div>
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One of our issues is correcting a slip of the tongue..is it really important to address every little slip? Does it derail the flow of things? Which leads into... </div>
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Is it Necessary? Maybe it is True, maybe at times it could be Helpful, and Important but is it Necessary? In our case, sometimes it is a distraction, slows progress down, just don't need to go there right now.</div>
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Is it Kind? How is it making the other person feel? All those other questions come into play as well...distracting? slowing things down? preventing things from happening? Frustrating someone else while doing all the above? In this case, how can we do/say this and be kind? </div>
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Loving it !!! </div>
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Only a few eye rolls have happened so far. </div>
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Beach Mommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06754796033512210679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1041532612973522581.post-41612889799531237472015-01-19T23:52:00.001-06:002015-01-19T23:52:54.267-06:00Something new we are tryingI have a kiddo that desperately wants to earn money. I struggle to think on the spot. I struggle with consistency and memory issues. For instance, how much was the job worth last time???<br />
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I, also, want balance. There are different beliefs regarding kids and chores and allowances and do we pay them for chores? Well, I haven't had a clear solution or hint of what to do in 18 years of parenting, that is till this weekend. </div>
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The challenge? Coming up with a solution that addresses the personality and heart issues and needs of multiple children in the home. For instance, I have one or more that would be all over getting up in the morning and working for money. Meanwhile, regular chores and school work wouldn't get done. </div>
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So I finally had a "duh!" Light bulb moment. I posted rules for earning money. I posted jobs available to be worked for money, and kept the amounts low and affordable for me. I made sure there were jobs that would need to be done frequently. I, also, put in a stipulation...An act of kindness stipulation. For every job done to earn money, an "act of kindness" needed to be completed. I want them to experience the balance of just doing because it is right and good. What never fails to amaze me is the "blindness" to things on the floor or odd little tasks that need doing and NOONE. notices. them. The glazed over zombie looks when I point them out just causes me to shake my head. In the last few weeks, I have heard, "but you didn't asked me" or "you didn't tell me to" more times than I care to count. Even once is one time too many considering the age of the culprits. So I am hoping my plan will encourage initiative and thoughtfulness and a change in attitude. I, also, left a post-it notepad nearby to jot down job ideas to stick to the posters. The kids were quick to notice jobs not mentioned, cleaning the car and vacuuming the upstairs. Post it notes have been added. I, also, created a note for the Christmas nativity. It needs to be put away with love and care, so it is stuck to the acts of kindness chart. What isn't pictured are the cards with their names on them and their "assigned" chores, individual to them. They each have a couple of jobs to do on a regular basis throughout the week. I haven't decided how frequently I will swap those out, but for now, I am hoping this works. <br />
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A little funny tidbit to add. My college student walked in while I was hard at work creating my posters. She got super excited! Couldn't wait to join in on this new endeavor. Apparently I got a little distracted and my cent signs were switched to dollar signs... Cleaning the entryways was suddenly worth $75 each and the pantry was worth $50. She was ready to get busy! Eye rolling commenced and I quickly burst her bubble. She made my point! And I quickly fixed my mistakes. Amounts may need to be tweaked, but I would rather increase rates and create cheering than decrease and experience mutiny. </div>
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Before I could post this, we also encountered another heart issue. There was an offense. A big hurt. It wasn't the kind of hurt that could be resolved by buying a replacement thing...no tangible restitution could be made. Apologies were made. Forgiveness given. But how does one demonstrate regret and love??? I am not all about earning forgiveness and grace, but there are times when a personal effort can go a long way. Since creating the assigned chores and the charts, an INSpired Idea hit me. An "act of kindness" which I called an act of "redemption"/"repentance" could be done. I suggested to the offender that since I had to take the sibling away from the house an act of kindness could be done by completing a chore that would become a hardship later in the day... leaving the house always means less time to do school and chores, especially when there is a desire for "free" time. Translation...less free time. My kids don't think "free time" spent at doctors' and other appointments is all that much fun! Go figure?? :) Before I left I heard the "offender" declaring "I HAVE to do..." I quickly responded with "No, you don't have to, you get to choose. This is something you get to choose to do to show love and repentance and kindness. No one says you have to, it is your choice. I think it is the right thing to do, but it was only a suggestion. So only do it, because you choose to do it." Out the door I went. My heart soared much later, when I discovered the job done and nothing more was said. </div>
Beach Mommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06754796033512210679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1041532612973522581.post-48614008702767653362014-06-19T17:02:00.000-05:002014-06-19T17:02:50.821-05:00Paracord for AntiguaThe last couple of months I have struggled. <br />
I have struggled with this mess...<br />
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And this mess...</div>
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My 10 year old disappears for hours on end to his room. It is a strange and unsettling feeling to not have him underfoot, running in and out the door. A little frustrating when there is math to do or books to be read.</div>
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Then there are the nights, I go into peak on him and discover him still awake. Hard at work creating or researching and learning a new pattern. </div>
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But my through it all my heart swells..</div>
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Ever since the missions team visited Awana one night to explain their upcoming trip to Antigua to build a hard court at a church he has been a man with a mission. Their visit to Awana was to drum up excitement for the missions offering to be collected for a month. They happened to mention that some of the money would be used to purchase prizes for a carnival night during the mission trip. My young man dreamed of making para cord bracelets for the team to give away. A dream he has not let go. So while I do ask for the occasional clean up and vacuum and insist on lights out, I am very proud of this young man. He willingly takes breaks to do some math and read when I request him to, but when my requests have been fulfilled he is back to work. He is a young man with a very big heart, generous and thoughtful. He even sold some creations as a fundraiser to help pay for all the supplies. Sometimes, he just couldn't help himself and he would just give away his creations just to love on someone. Each bracelet has a story. Each made with love and thought to the color combinations and type of pattern. Though each child may not know all of this, it is our prayer they will be blessed and feel the love of the Lord</div>
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His endeavor has created a bond with his oldest sister as she is going on the trip. They have brainstormed together. She has patiently listened as he explained each bracelet to her. She has encouraged him as he questioned whether each was of high enough quality to give as a gift. Would the color combination be liked? Earlier this week she took him shopping to buy more para cord. Something this Momma has stood back and watched. I have held myself back, not interfering, because it has been a beautiful thing to watch unfold. To be honest, sometimes when Momma gets involved she redirects and changes the flow unintentionally. It is a wondrous thing to provide tools, encouragement and stand back to see what will happen. </div>
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There are only a few hours left, and more will be added.... And I am sure I may have to say lights out at some point tonight, but this is what is flying to Antigua tomorrow. The attached verse is: </div>
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Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. </div>
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One of the very first verses children learn in Awana...</div>
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Beach Mommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06754796033512210679noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1041532612973522581.post-23583917958952955712014-04-01T11:44:00.000-05:002014-04-01T11:44:42.401-05:00My Teenager TheoryI have this theory. I have, even in a brief embarrassing moment for my daughter, spoke to another teenager about my theory at an athletic event in Oklahoma. Amazing what conversations can be had in a hotel elevator. He nodded his head and agreed I had a point. <br />
What is this theory? <br />
Take your teenager's age and subtract ten. That is their true age. You just thought when you made it through the 2s and 3s life was going to get better. Think crazed psycho laughter coming from me. <br />
NOPE!!! <br />
The joys of 5 children in 10 years. When my first was thirteen the last was 3. I saw first hand one day when they both CHOSE to have a tantrum within minutes of each other. Now I must say my oldest and youngest have a lot of similarities in their personalities. That was my aha moment. 5 years later it has been observed by this Momma to be true more than not! <br />
Today my 14 year old gave me flash backs to his younger years. Gave him a job, took a shower and came back and it wasn't done. Deer in the head lights look. You meant now?? (or rather then?) Now he did apply some critical thinking but his critical thinking led him straight back to the same choices he made when he was 4. Look charming and absent of his mind! I watch my younger two closely... 8 and 10. I. IN. FOR. IT!!! <br />
Today the 8 year old is crying because I set a timer for a handful of problems to be done in 30 minutes. He would rather do the soccer homework for his coach on You Tube. Yeah, whatever. While he cries, he announces..."My head hurts!" "There is no way I can do this!" and the clincher, "I Hate my life!!!" To which the almost 18 year old giggles and says, "I hate mine too." <br />
The 8 year old asks, "Why, because you are short?" <br />The almost 18 year old, "NO, because, I am almost 18 and have to pay bills and work!" <br />
The almost 18 year old at some point also rolled her eyes an sighed..."The drama!!" <br />
Yeah exactly! <br />
So all you moms of youngers....I am warning it, enjoy them as they are cause they are who they are and are and they only get older... the drama gets more dramatic, the tantrums only get bigger and cluelessness loses some of its charm. <br />
We won't even discuss the prayers I say regarding the 10 year old.... He has his own set of quirks...like books belong in the closet and clothes belong on the bookshelf. Beds are not for sleeping in... <br />
I DON"T EVEN TRY TO IMAGINE WHAT HE WILL THINK WHEN HE IS A TEENAGER!!! <br />
At least, I get a good laugh now and then. <br />
Lest you think it is all bad, it isn't. They reach a certain wonderfulness between 9 and 12...They are helpful and capable and sometimes want to learn new things around the house. Then they regress....A LOT!. While they may act like the youngest you once knew ten years ago, you can have more intelligent conversations with them...just not when they have relapsed 10 years for whatever hormonal or emotional reason at the moment. Deep breathes. LAUGH!! it helps, just not when they are in their moment...run hide in the closet and laugh like a crazy person! <br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54486/396/297FB7AF57F9698E731FD20BBD7A5D7F.png" style="background: none; border-image: none !important !important; border: 0px currentColor !important;" /></a>Beach Mommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06754796033512210679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1041532612973522581.post-28013785989341995272014-03-19T14:59:00.000-05:002015-06-05T16:26:20.357-05:00Ummm, what happened to all my plans???It is Spring Break for all around us here locally. We weren't going to take Spring Break....<br />
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I had plans: Lots of school catch up would get done<br />
Lots of EBay would get listed <br />
Garden would get planted<br />
Daily chores would be done<br />
Garage sale would be had or we would go garage sale-ing<br />
Graduation to do's would be done<br />
Meals would be cooked<br />
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It seems school breaks never quite pan out to be what I hope them to be...<br />
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This weekend while out of town, a sick kid...No big deal right?? Except I sleep on a COT with him NEXT to me. Okay when he was 2,3, 4 years old...but now he is bigger. Since the sleep study and changes made in life, THE MAN is growing and well, sleep is over rated anyhow. Right? If not on the cot, then not at all. Or maybe in a hotel chair. Or maybe on the floor next to him, on an air mattress...which just isn't the same when you are 40. He feels better. <br />
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So we are home and my body rebels on Monday. Huge knots that my daughters can see all over my back. Exhausted, I sleep, nap, stare off into distance. He feels better. <br />
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Tuesday comes and maybe things won't be so bad, garden is cleaned out. But he is wheezy. Breathing treatments. NO time outside is allowed...so I spend all my time policing him and trying to get him to stay inside. The garden is beckoning. NOPE! Dad comes home, I get the shopping done for the garden, take big brother to golf practice and do the parent meeting thing. <br />
Then nighttime rolls around. I can't sleep. His breathing is off. He is restless. Talking, crying, and teeth grinding in his sleep. I snuggle and pray over him. Watch him relax as prayers are answered. More breathing treatments in the night. Constant running of the diffuser... He says it helps some. He relaxes and sleeps for another 15 minute spell. I realize why people like their e-readers. No lights need to be on. My IPad is my other companion through the night. Might as well do something since I am NOT sleeping. He finally relaxes and breathing easy. I dose off, but not for long. Gut wrenching body wracking coughs. I can hear deep down in his chest. This is NOT good! I work to convince my body I was just joking, we weren't really going to sleep. Good news, it is 7:30. Another breathing treatment. Now I can call the doctor's office. <br />
Appointment made, teenagers woke. Dad called at work. Oldest drives the zombie mom to the doctor office. Pneumonia! Ear infection! <br />
The best part....My teenagers are well trained in caring for the sick. :) Home and I go to bed. I am awaken a few times. I have no concept of time. Just crazy spy riddled dreams...guess what they were watching on tv??? 4 hours later I am staring off into nowhere trying to decide if I am awake or asleep still and wondering what happened to my Spring Break??<br />
I realize another crazy school break. I wonder about taking next week off so I can get my to do list done. And I realize this is the twisted pattern of all of our school breaks and why our breaks always end up extended. Just want my "perfect break". <br />
Then I hear the whisper: "For I know the plans I have for you...."<br />
I choose to not ask why my plans can't be accomplished. I suck down my Pepsi. Yep, it is back but not to the extent it used to be, I think today is considered special circumstances. Grateful, my kids hop to it when I assign chores. My obnoxious pre-teen quits badgering me about when I am starting school because I tell him to go get the lesson plan book. I think I hear angels singing Hallelujah!! <br />
There is still time this week for the to do list. <br />
This blog post wasn't on the list but maybe it will help someone else. <br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54486/396/297FB7AF57F9698E731FD20BBD7A5D7F.png" style="background: none; border-image: none !important !important; border: 0px currentColor !important;" /></a>Beach Mommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06754796033512210679noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1041532612973522581.post-1845932689796928482014-02-01T14:25:00.000-06:002014-02-01T14:25:26.074-06:00Sleep Study Results are In....This has been a journey in of itself. <br />
Starting late last Spring/early Summer. <br />
We were looking into some oral therapy for one of our kiddos. Mild speech issues no one has been able to figure out a cause for, but as this child has matured learning to compensate and overcome. As we were setting up an evaluation it was suggested we have the whole family evaluated. Often issues are congenital and multiple family members have issues. The therapy cause correct issues before they become issues later in life. Worth looking into. <br />
What we weren't expecting was concern regarding another child's palate. We were aware of the issues, but no one had suggested anything else. The quirks in his behavior we dealt with, thinking it was just the way this child was created. Such as this child doesn't like to sleep in bed, always sleeps in recliner and/or couch. Frankly, I don't care where my children sleep as long as they sleep these days. Life is busy and some things I just don't have the energy to argue about. Even if this child starts in bed, always ends up on the couch, either due to sleep walking or just waking up and wandering there after a bathroom trip. <br />
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Next stop was the doctor to check adenoids and tonsils. Nothing remarkable, so a sleep study was requested. We were put on a wait list and I received a call just before Christmas for after New Years. After our initial appointment, the PA agreed our kiddo was borderline and would benefit for a sleep study to either confirm/diagnose an issue or it was behavioral and we would decide what to do regarding behaviors. <br />
Best part was there was a cancellation and we were asked if we could return later in the week for the sleep study. As we hadn't been able to restart school, I said sure. <br />
I wish I could post pictures of all the wires. While I was allowed to take pictures for Dad I was forbidden to share them with anyone else including siblings. Which is why I also am being very careful to not suggest which child went with me to KC to the Children's hospital. While there is noting to embarrassed about, I am trying to respect wishes here. So if you do know who I am speaking of please, request my child's desire for privacy. I am posting results only because so many have been praying and asking. <br />
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So the results: <br />
Airway is clear! No apnea! No issues with orthodontics that need to be done. Wahoo!! <br />
Diagnosis: Periodic Limb Movement Disorder which causes brain arousal during sleep and causes low levels of dopamine in the brain. <br />
In our case, the disorder is being caused by iron deficiency. Which also means there is a ferritin deficiency. Since this child is a carnivore I asked what could be lacking in the diet to prevent iron absorption. Vitamin C. Said child does not care for produce!! Lesson is being learned that Mom's balanced meals are meant to allow for maximum nutrition. Each food is reliant on another food for maximum nutrition and health. While this child consumes produce, it is not varied enough. Understanding that athletic performance and overall feeling well and happy is dependent on diet, there is a willingness to try and eat more variety, albeit reluctantly. We will need occasional blood tests as a result of the iron supplements, but in time we should hopefully be able to discontinue the supplements and just eat healthy! Praising the Lord! <br />
We also discovered the child is lingering too long deep 3 sleep. An indicator of not getting enough sleep on a regular basis. Wiggling around in bed, procrastinating, asking all those late night questions. You get the idea, all the stuff that drives a parent nuts when they just want their children TO GO TO BED!!! <br />
Well now, the child has heard it all from the doc! Sleep and eat your veggies!! Amazing how much more validity there is to the mantra when it isn't the parent saying it!! <br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54486/396/297FB7AF57F9698E731FD20BBD7A5D7F.png" style="background: none; border-image: none !important; border: 0px currentColor !important;" /></a>Beach Mommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06754796033512210679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1041532612973522581.post-84392489366140944332013-12-20T00:54:00.002-06:002013-12-20T00:54:55.972-06:00Water, wood and brassWhoops! I thought I hit post a couple of weeks ago. But nope, it went into drafts. My bad. <br />
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But anyhow, here it is. <br />
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As I was wrapping up my day, I found my heart overflowing with gratitude for the simple things as I walked through the going to bed process. A running diffuser with RC and Thieves for two boys dangling on the edge of sickness. Praying for a quick return to feeling 100%. the same diffuser that ran all night and day providing relief to Daddy O.<br />
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A new wooden door, unfinished, but hung and offering long awaited privacy for two boys. Offering relief to a Mom and two sisters who worry about intruding on Big brother, especially. A door that took Daddy O a chunk of his day off to acquire and install. Resulting in a relapse of illness and a missed night of work. Thankful for his efforts and acts of service to his family.</div>
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Brass..new door knob and sense of security. The day before we left town Little Princess' door knob broke in bits and had to be removed because the door was "locked" shut and there was a kitty crying inside. This door knob signifies the sanctuary from annoying little brothers on the other side. (Note all the marks around the door knob, I wonder how many were from pestering little brothers.). When Daddy O said he was on his way to get a door knob, "please one with a lock?!?!?!" she asked. </div>
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I didn't join in on the count the things you are grateful for through the month of November, because it is a habit I try to maintain all year long. From beautiful red sunsets to door knobs there is so much that God provides and we only need to recognize His provision. I pray, I will always be seeking ways to give Him thanks and see His presence in my life working masterfully demonstrating His love for me. </div>
Beach Mommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06754796033512210679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1041532612973522581.post-61381869678923271912013-11-19T09:00:00.000-06:002013-11-19T09:00:06.567-06:00Favorite Things...VinegarVinegar. <br />
I rediscovered vinegar when The Man was diagnosed with an egg allergy. <br />
We had to start keeping vinegar on hand to make a substitution mixture for eggs when baking. <br />
It works. <br />
Then he grew out of the allergy, and now I forget about this little trick for egg substitutions. If only there was a trick to remind me when I run out of eggs so I don't have to run to the neighbor's house to beg for eggs. <br />
Once vinegar was in the house, I started to experiment a bit with it. <br />
I love it in my laundry. <br />
My Sis-in-law told me she used it as fabric softner. <br />
It works. Put it in the rinse cycle. <br />
When I use vinegar as fabric softner I get a bonus out of the deal...my clothes don't fade. <br />
If you ever do a dying project at home, they always recommend a run through the washer with vinegar at least once to set the colors. <br />
Well vinegar will do that for your clothes. <br />
My daughter was the first to notice. Cause she gets those t-shirts for this or that and they have to been worn every week. Well hers wasn't fading like her friends. Vinegar. <br />
It is, also, a disinfectant. Sick kids/family. Colored sheets? Colored towels? Colored PJs? Want to disinfect all this and whatever else the germy family has drooled and snotted all over. Bet you don't want to use bleach on all of it. Well vinegar won't hurt the color or fabric. If I am feeling real germ-a-phobic, I will put it in the wash cycle and the rinse cycle. <br />
There are lots of recipes out there for window cleaners, multipurpose cleaners... I haven't gone there yet. <br />
Maybe one day, I will take a moment and give some of the other possibilities a try. <br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54486/396/297FB7AF57F9698E731FD20BBD7A5D7F.png" style="border: 0px currentColor !important;" /></a>Beach Mommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06754796033512210679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1041532612973522581.post-48427202313153365922013-11-18T10:00:00.000-06:002013-11-18T10:36:02.916-06:00Home School High School TranscriptsThe dreaded transcript. <br />
Talk about breathing fear and dread into the soul of a home school mom. <br />
They make or break the college admission process for these kids. <br />
Or so they seem. <br />
All in all, the idea is not really complicated. <br />
The process in creating them, can be daunting. <br />
The whole process started somewhere around seventh grade. <br />
Planning out course of study, dotting i's and crossing t's. <br />
Then life happened and I started the stress all over again between sophomore and junior year. <br />
This past fall, I needed transcripts. We were doing dual enrollment. <br />
Once I discovered to shelve my anxiety, the process wasn't so daunting. Especially, now that we have the internet. <br />
Donna Young's website of free reproducibles has <a href="http://donnayoung.org/f13/planner-f/hischl/tranx.htm" target="_blank">this</a> awesome template available.<br />
I just entered the information and did the math for GPA and voila all done. <br />
Fast forward to November and College Applications and my life changed. <br />
You see, now I need to record all these dual credit classes and the classes intended for next semester. <br />
How do I fit in College name next to course study? <br />
How do I explain GPA calculations?<br />
Insert 3-4 hours of work on a Sunday afternoon. <br />
I started with the intent to recreate my document. Meaning no TEMPLATE. <br />
Never having created a Word Document with tables before, I tried to follow the instructions in <a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&field-keywords=transcripts%20made%20easy%20by%20janice%20campbell&linkCode=ur2&sprefix=transcripts%20made%20easy%2Caps%2C168&tag=beacgard-20&url=search-alias%3Daps">Transcriptions Made Easy</a>, by Janice Campbell. The whole process ended up with a grouchy momma. I took a break, got something to eat and the light bulb went off. I had made enough progress in creating a document from the blank new page, to discover I just needed to add some details to the comment section of the transcripts I already filled out earlier in the year. <br />
At the bottom of my transcripts, along with GPA calculations and grade values, I noted abbreviations. I did have to become a bit creative here, as my daughter is attending Friends University. Just using initials did not look too appropriate next to course of study. I indicated credits represented high school credit only, not college credit. <br />
All that I have left now is to buy the pretty paper in which I need for printing the transcripts. <br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54486/396/297FB7AF57F9698E731FD20BBD7A5D7F.png" style="border: 0px currentColor !important;" /></a>Beach Mommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06754796033512210679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1041532612973522581.post-4979744678315923412013-11-18T09:00:00.000-06:002015-06-05T16:14:55.207-05:00Thieves from Young Living I am loving this Essential Oil for Young Living ~ Thieves!<br />
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Thanks to my diffuser, yesterday, my basement smelled like Thanksgiving, autumn, pumpkin pie. Take your pick, everyone in the family has their own description of how Thieves smells. Dad's Bud says it smells like Snickerdoodles and pasta. </div>
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Beach Mommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06754796033512210679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1041532612973522581.post-52141673686070255652013-11-09T12:54:00.000-06:002013-11-09T12:54:14.694-06:00Little Brothers are Super CleverI open my front door to see this....<br />
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What are you doing? </div>
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"Dad said we can't be outside with the IPad."</div>
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By all accounts, they are sitting in the doorway!!! </div>
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I gave them five more minutes and shut the door. </div>
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The creative problem solving in this house exceeds my creativity and expectations. 5 years ago, I might have been 3 steps ahead. Not anymore, I am about 3 steps behind. </div>
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Gotta love these boys. </div>
Beach Mommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06754796033512210679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1041532612973522581.post-69910955156888399432013-11-05T12:47:00.001-06:002013-11-05T12:47:11.610-06:00When homeschooling gets to the youngest child....The answers you get to questions are quite humorous. They have so many more varied experiences the older siblings didn't have, just because they get dragged around following the older siblings. :) <br />
For instance the following questions in his Explode the Code workbooks:<br />
Can a stitch be made in a dish? yes. Really? "But Mom it is plausible!" "If you want to use a dish when you knit you can stitch in a dish." What really killed me, is he used plausible in a sentence and used it correctly!! Probably from watching all those Myth Buster episodes!<br />
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Will you get rich if you sell trash? yes. Really? Well if the trash has gold in it, you can.... He has been to way too many garage sales. He, also, has a grandpa that likes to junk and strip items down to elements to be taken to the recycling center where he is paid by the weight. If you are a kid, any money in the pocket amounts to being rich! <br />
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Beach Mommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06754796033512210679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1041532612973522581.post-1759753476568972032013-11-03T12:24:00.001-06:002013-11-12T10:02:12.266-06:00Counting my birthday blessings<div>A little late, i have had to snag seconds here and there to compose this post. </div><div><br></div>Getting older doesn't bother me, though the fact I can't remember my age half the time may be the reason. I do have children who are more than willing to remind me at any given memory lapse. They are so lovingly helpful. <br>
To mark this milestone, I wanted to list 40 blessings.<br>
1. My husband and children <br>
2. A birthday card from my parents, with my Mom's signature..Mom isn't able to really talk anymore with me, and the last time I saw her attempt to write it was scribbles. So to see her signature on a card....well I did the ugly cry. <br>
3. Late night chats with the kids.<br>
4. Homeschooling, I love the random memories I have with my kids because they are with me all day... In spite of all the times, I think I am losing my mind or send them outside to run. :)<br>
5. Slowly and steadily getting my brain back and being involved with my kids <br>
6. Autumn colors and country drives, time to marvel at God's creation and chat with Him. <br>
7. The ability to learn and explore new passions with my children as we discover the paths He has for each one. <br>
8. Comfy and CUTE shoes. My feet hurt a lot, finding comfy shoes that are cute...BoNuS!<br>
9. Facebook...in this season of busy children and being their Mom, I can still connect and get sneak peeks into the lives of the people I care about on a regular basis. <br>
10. Texting!! It allows me to disconnect mentally and take mini brain vacations during the day and still be available. It also keeps this crazy family connected across the miles in noisy gyms, arenas and when we are out in the middle of no where! <br>
11. Fresh garden tomatoes, still getting a few! <br>
12. Friends near and far.<br>
13. Unexpected times when God allows "Mom moments" for this Mom... Those random conversations in unexpected places, a laugh, smile.<br>
14. Kitty snuggles<br>
15. My dog herding and tripping me cause he can't get close enough to me as I try and enter the door, all because he missed me. <br>
16. Late afternoons in the yard playing ball with the kids.<br>
17. Trips to the lake just to look at the stars. <br>
18. Swim meets, hockey and soccer games, volleyball matches, scouts and camping<br>
19. Random conversations that reveal information about an interest a child has, answer to prayer. Conversation isn't so random as it is God orchestrated. <br>
20. Pictures! They capture memories, otherwise easily forgotten, especially now with post-concussion syndrome. <br>
21. Life lessons, in all that we experience. The good and bad. Embrace the lessons and grow, learning to not protect my children from them, but teaching them to embrace all of them, even the hard ones. <br>
22. Sunday comics!! <br>
23. Libraries and all the many many many books, I don't have to acquire bookshelves for in my home. <br>
24. Quirky grandmothers and the memories they leave behind <br>
25. Essential oils and the healing they can bring about in our lives, physically and emotionally. <div> 26. Hope I have, all because of Jesus and being adopted by my Heavenly Father <br>
27. "Hugs" from God, those moments He provides just as you discover the need.<br>
28. Garage sales--they are just so much fun!!<br>
29. Kiddos that love vegetables and fruit! Their favorite section in the grocery store: the produce department! <br>
30. Chocolate!!! <br>
31. Four seasons...I love them all for what each has to offer.<br>
32. Rewards cards and coupons and Dillons fundraiser cards!! Creativity it takes to make the dollars work for our family! <br>
33. Childhood memories to share with the nest generation!<br>
34. My MeSSy home...it drives me nuts, but I wouldn't trade the messiness, my life would be so empty without the ones who make the messes. <br>
35. Church-- a place to learn, grow and serve. And hopefully a place of acceptance, accountability and encouragement. <br>
36. Children willing to serve and pitch in<br>
37. Yummy smells from the kitchen as 4 of 5 kids are now able to cook something. </div><div>38. Piano practice. I love the sound!</div><div>39. Church and the ability to worship wih so many other believers. </div><div>40. Hugs, they are amazing! </div><div>And one to grow on:</div><div>41. Having a ten year spread between my children. As one prepares to soar into adulthood and a couple in the teen years, snapping apron strings left and right, I still have a couple of younger ones that help keep me young doing things with them. </div>Beach Mommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06754796033512210679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1041532612973522581.post-80698412097437909482013-10-24T00:02:00.000-05:002013-10-24T00:02:10.466-05:00A word well spokenI love home schooling. I love the mornings and listening to the various exchanges between my children as the day begins. I never know what I will wake to, a hungry cat, a dog digging in the trash, a ball crashing through the house, the beep beep of a video game, or the serenades of my youngest favorite song of the morning. Sometimes, I wake to find lots of school work being done. However, I often wake up to some kind of ruckus, a skirmish of sorts filled with laughter or run and hide I have antagonized a sleepy bear like brother and he is going to get me kind of skirmish. <br />
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This past week, I have been left pondering the exchange between two of my children. Left in awe of the maturity and wisdom in the response of one child. Pondering how do I respond and where did this child of mine learn a response such as this? I am realizing my children are growing up and my role is changing.<br />
You ask what did my child say? <br />
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As I was peeking out from the covers debating whether I wanted to leave their warmth, I hear pounding on a bathroom door. "You have been in there 20-25 minutes, I need the shower." I am prepared for bathroom drama. Muffled noises, I can only imagine the response as I know the name of the child on the other side of the door. And then the response, "The past doesn't matter (as when I showered last), I need to take a shower and I would appreciate you respecting that." Not said with attitude. Not said with sass or anger. Said matter of fact and respectfully.<br />
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At that moment I was so proud of this child and relayed that information. No arguing. No hurt feelings. Just to the point. <br />
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Shortly after the door opened. No bickering, drama, door slamming or hatefulness. Just stepping aside and offering the respect and bathroom as requested. A word well spoken, a soft word and where wrath could of reigned it was turned away. Without knowing it, these 2 children have left their Momma pondering and reflecting on the choices they have made. I am humbled by the maturity and growth they are both demonstrating. As I remember the impatience and frustration I often exhibit, I am grateful to see they don't always follow their Momma's example. <br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54486/396/297FB7AF57F9698E731FD20BBD7A5D7F.png" style="border: 0px currentColor !important;" /></a>Beach Mommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06754796033512210679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1041532612973522581.post-8287485912746953882013-09-05T16:24:00.000-05:002013-09-05T16:24:23.495-05:00Reading Joys!!One of the things I don't enjoy is teaching the kids to read! <br />
I homeschool. What is wrong with me? I hear moms say how wonderous the task is to cuddle up to their child and listen to them discover the mystery of the printed word. Nope not here. <br />
KUUUU aaaaaaaaaaaaa TTT <br />
KUUUU aaaaaaaaaaaaa TTT<br />
KUUUU aaaaaaaaaaaaa TTT <br />
Cat already!!! let's move onto the next word please and it starts all over again. <br />
5 minutes to read one sentence. Bring me the super glue and toothpicks to hold my eyes open. We have read this mommy to sleep more than one afternoon and sometimes morning as we labor through the process. <br />
It is miraculous. It is wonderful when they learn to read. But this miracle doesn't happen with the immediate task of sit down and open a book. It is a process. A long one in the midst of life. <br />
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Much to my JOY my younger two have been really quick to take off. <br />
YEs!!! Smiley face does a happy dance. <br />
The next hurdle to tackle is reading one's Bible and Awana workbooks, not to mention all the instructions on one's school work. <br />
The Man is hard at work. Today he has discovered he can read the names of the Books of the Old Testament. You see to finish last years book, one of the things he must do is recite all books of the Old Testament. A fact I find humorous, some of the names can be difficult for an adult to say. Take a tooth losing, lisping, & whistling first grader and have him say all the books of the Old Testament. Absolutely adorable. I must say, I have had a few chuckles over my kids mis-pronunciations over the years. The Man had half of them memorized last spring. <br />
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You know what that means, he has to review and re-learn all of them this fall. <br />
Since he has to wait for me to sit down and work on his mom-led lessons today, I asked him to work on his memory work, handwriting and math. <br />
I had no idea he had crossed over and could read/recognize the incredibly long and difficult names of the Old Testament books. But he has!!!!<br />
He has followed me around EVERYWHERE reciting/reading the Books of the Bible. <br />
EVERYWHERE. ALL DAY LONG. <br />
While I tried to teach Middle School Science, he was across the room, "Did you hear me?" <br />
"Did I get them right?" <br />
When we were discussing Romeo and Juliet there were murmurs of Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus...<br />
When we left the house, I was captive.<br />
Joshua Judges Ruth.....Nahum, Obadiah <br />
When I go to the bathroom, there is a closed door, but I am still captive, until I flush and wash my hands. First and Second Chronicles<br />
Then the sound of running waters drowns out all other noises. <br />
All through lunch, all through Thursday activities, while I walk into the house, while I put things away, I hear...<br />
First and Second Samuel, First and Second Kings.......Isaiah, Jeremiah....Zephaniah, Malachi. <br />
"How do you say this name again?" Genesis. <br />
"First and Second Psalms" He knows it is not Psalms but for some reason Samuel and Psalms, well they go together like ham and cheese. <br />
Don't forget Judges...<br />
"I will start over; Joshua, Ruth..."<br />
"Can I borrow your phone so I can time myself?" 34.8 seconds later he has read/recited all the books. <br />
He tries again. 30 seconds! Best time yet. <br />
I asked for 3 minutes so I could type this, just 3 minutes of not being talked to and he humbled me so quickly. In spite of all the humor and truth I kept reminding myself all day, he is the last one. There are no more kids to follow you around like this. This will pass all quickly. This is awesome. There was the me, that just wanted to not be talked to for just 10 minutes. I have been juggling 5 conversations and sometimes more and half a million different tasks all day. 1o minutes of brain rest.<br />
In his most endearing way, "Thank you Mom for listening me say the Books of the Bible"<br />
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The war of insanity inside me that just wanted a quiet closet for a minute, melted away. <br />
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And now he is back, asking me, "Are the 3 minutes up?" Sure are. <br />
"Where is my book?" Where you last put it. (LOL)<br />
And it begins again....Genesis Exodus....<br />
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Beach Mommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06754796033512210679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1041532612973522581.post-56844328964492619212013-08-15T23:58:00.002-05:002013-08-15T23:58:46.942-05:00Why I don't blog....My eldest has been giving me grief. She likes to read my blog. Which leaves me just a little bit puzzled. I mean she lives here. She knows what is going on. So why does she need to catch up on our lives??? <br />
She reminds me gently I haven't posted in a while. She tells me I need to finish posting about our vacation. <br />
I just look at her and wonder where she came from??? <br />
She even offers to paint my toes or do dishes so I will sit down and blog. <br />
I still don't get it. <br />
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Here is why I haven't blogged in no particular order: <br />
Since July 1<br />
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We have had baseball <br />
We have had summer volleyball <br />
I have had memory therapy...yeah that went really well till I actually forgot an appointment. That would have made a great post! <br />
I had a child in Lego robotics...1/2 hour drive one way. <br />
A child golfing weekly till mid July<br />
summer dentist appointments <br />
orthodontist appointments...put child #4 in braces <br />
Throw in some physical therapy for the eldest cause she is a klutz when running late for work. <br />
Church garage sale that ate up 30 hours of my life in one week...fun yes, but still that is a lot of hours for a crazed stay at home who rarely stays home. <br />
My helpful eldest who shares driving responsibilities went away to Kids Camp the first week of July. That really didn't help much. <br />
Fall Volleyball started <br />
Fall soccer started<br />
College research started....<br />
College enrollment worked on cause she is a senior and she can take 2 classes a semester this year. <br />
Dog started having weird symptoms, talked to vet. They think he is in the early stages of Doggie dementia. Like I really needed that in my life. But he has these eyes and ears and well what are you going to do? <br />
Cats that catch baby bunnies, birds, snakes, frogs and mice and create all sorts of a ruckus as a result. <br />
In other words, the animals can derail a day as much as the children can. <br />
We started school last week. What was I thinking???? <br />
I lost 2 sets of middle school curriculum. Science and English. <br />
Ordered replacements and found it all a week later. <br />
But hey, the storage room is cleaned. <br />
I cleaned Fun Girl's room for 6 hours and made $50. Yep, I charged her for cleaning her room. <br />
Also, accumulated a pile of clothes to put on EBay. <br />
Sorted Boys clothes, another huge mountain of clothes for EBay. <br />
Sorted through Hockey gear and soccer gear...more EBay<br />
Took about a thousand pictures for EBay. It is easy to do. Then I edited and deleted some. <br />
Created High School transcripts.<br />
Working on scheduling a college visit before sports have us out of town most of our fall/winter. <br />
Planning a get away with Little Princess <br />
First Aid on 2nd degree sunburns on kiddos this summer....4 times. You would think we would get a handle on that. <br />
And Memory therapy/Brain therapy is E x H a Us Ti NG !!! Like taking the ACT exhausting. Requiring naps. Anything that challenges my brain...that isn't saying much....almost requires an early bed time or nap. <br />
I re-learned my Math Facts!!! 8s, 9s and up<br />
Learning to work math faster. Accepting I need to write most problems down now if I don't have a calculator. <br />
Making lists everywhere cause well that is how my brain rolls these days. Memory therapy helped a lot. But I am "high functioning" so there isn't much they can do to help me. Time and working on it and maybe I will get it all back, maybe not. At least, I am high functioning... I try to be grateful for that when the frustration builds about not being like I once was. <br />
Trying to put the house back in some kind of order after this past winter and spring.<br />
Sleep blessed sleep...which is where I am heading now. <br />
Life can be Hard. Life is Full. Life is Good. <br />
I am hoping soon, very soon, I can sit at the computer and do some more blogging. Fun blogging. <br />
With pictures maybe. <br />
But for you my dear Fun Girl, my latest update. :) <br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54486/396/297FB7AF57F9698E731FD20BBD7A5D7F.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Beach Mommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06754796033512210679noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1041532612973522581.post-22021096470132996972013-07-01T11:05:00.000-05:002013-07-01T11:05:06.478-05:00Hospital PicturesI have had my doubts as to whether I should post these pictures. Each time I look at them, I can't help but smile. My girls missed me. They were a bit scared by their Mommy's stay in the hospital. They can up to see me one evening. We would learn later, they were well past visiting hours. Oops. They climbed in bed with me and we began the picture session. Fun Girl even gave me a pedicure. Such a bright spot to be able to look down at my toes. I am so blessed to have these 2 for my daughters. <br />
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Beach Mommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06754796033512210679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1041532612973522581.post-259953245148553362013-07-01T11:00:00.001-05:002013-07-01T11:00:11.238-05:00Counting some more...Counting is good, we all do it. We count the number of heads, just to make sure we leave no one behind. We count our money. We count to 10 to keep from losing our minds. We count and count. Sometimes we find it easier to keep track of the negatives, like in our checking accounts. Life starts weighing us down. I challenge you to take a moment and start counting the little blessings in your life and watch joy take over. Maybe it is only 3 a day....that is okay. Life isn't perfect. It is messy. It is hard and it is Good! Even in the hard there are joys to count. I am still counting....maybe just not the numbers. <br />
Loving reminders the best good bye is the quickest one, not to drag them out.<br />
Camp goodbyes from a bus window<br />
Grace for my late Hockey Player and allowed to play golf<br />
Squawking birds in the dark hours of a morning and a GOOD dog that puts it out of its misery<br />
Board games and my children <br />
Water gun fights <br />
Baseball coach husband who coaches practice with water balloons....Best Coach Ever! <br />
Progress on projects <br />
God appointments in Target <br />
Vulnerability and openness <br />
Camping in backyard tents <br />
Being outside with no allergy restrictions for the first time in a year. <br />
and Gardening <br />
and Watching ball games <br />
and Going for walks<br />
and Just sitting on the porch swing and laying out on the lawn watching the sky<br />
Hugs from my children <br />
Rubbing, swishing cat tale on my leg with a purr<br />
Little Princess playing volleyballBeach Mommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06754796033512210679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1041532612973522581.post-88592343720055649292013-07-01T10:47:00.001-05:002013-07-01T10:47:16.387-05:00still counting.....11501126. Teens that live and like to cook <br />
1127. New recipes<br />
1128. Antibiotics for strep<br />
1129. Travel plans <br />
1130. Beloved sister in laws <br />
1131. Hanging out with my kiddos <br />
1132. Walks with a buddy... Husband, a kid, a friend....wonderful one on one time <br />
1133. Sunshine<br />
1134. Rain, snow, sleet ~ much needed moisture <br />
1135. Garden and a husband that builds it <br />
1136. One step at a time, getting my home back in order after months of neglect <br />
1137. Freshly mown grass <br />
1138. Memories of blowing dandelion clouds <br />
1139. Watching Awana clubbers receive their awards... All the hundreds of memory verses put in hearts and minds <br />
1140. Pain in my leg... Sensation is returning. <br />
1141. Less stuttering, and lots of naps ~ healing happening <br />
1142. Praying with my mom <br />
1143. Sharing memories with my sister <br />
1144. Laughter with cousins <br />
1145. New adventures and the joy that comes<br />
1146. Vacation days just me, my husband and kids <br />
1147. Friends taking care of the home front <br />
1148. Listening to my children enjoy God's creation and counting their new experiences <br />
1149. Family giggles and humor in the car <br />
1150. Beautiful weather for the trip.<br />
Beach Mommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06754796033512210679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1041532612973522581.post-52816811681285209472013-06-23T19:45:00.001-05:002013-06-23T19:45:25.282-05:00Garden of the Gods ~ 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We were having a lazy day 3 of vacation. </div>
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Spent some time at Rock Ledge Ranch with cousins. </div>
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Then they needed to head home. </div>
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Daddy-O and I decided to take the kids to Garden of the Gods. </div>
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Wow! You would have thought we were going to torture the kids or something. </div>
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The thought they were going to miss some time with cousins </div>
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quickly turned us into vacation ruining parents! </div>
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Below: Kissing Camels</div>
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We bribed them with time in the gift shop! </div>
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And found photo opportunities on the balcony.</div>
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We made it through the gift shop, with minimal tears. </div>
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Mostly cause Daddy O threw some money out and let the kids buy a couple of things.<br />Plus, there was the purchase of fudge! </div>
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Then the promise, we would only drive through the Garden of the Gods, to make the torture go faster. </div>
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It didn't take long for them to begin to appreciate the beauty of the park. </div>
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By the time we arrived at Balance Rock, they were ready to get out and explore. </div>
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Just the perfect amount of rock scrambling. </div>
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I think they quickly came to believe their parents weren't the wet blankets of vacation history. </div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54486/396/297FB7AF57F9698E731FD20BBD7A5D7F.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Beach Mommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06754796033512210679noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1041532612973522581.post-16068497155588825462013-06-23T19:25:00.000-05:002013-06-23T19:25:00.149-05:00Mueller State Park 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Day 2 of our vacation. </div>
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We joined my sister and her daughters and grand-daughter and loaded up for Mueller State Park. </div>
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We didn't expect the elevation to have the effect it did on me. </div>
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I ended up with a horrible "concussion" headaches. </div>
That is what I call them. <br />
Never have I had headaches like these till the accident. They bring me to tears. <br />
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We stopped at a grocery store, bought some Ziploc baggies, so I could make ice packs. </div>
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I stayed with my grand-niece and her momma. </div>
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We had a great visit just the 3 of us, I settled in and relaxed. </div>
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I listened to the trees and the wind. </div>
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I may even have dozed off a bit. </div>
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When we came home, Fun Girl had captured the best pictures and she shared them with me. </div>
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Makes my heart soar to see these cousins bond and enjoy their time together like they do. </div>
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