I was tagged by my dear fellow blogger (and friend!) TaunaLen, who has posted a couple of wonderful “8 random things” entries! Here’s a (less creatively written) post for my tag:
I love teacups. I have loved them for as long as I can remember. Especially those with delicately flowered patterns. When I was a young girl, I spend endless minutes gazing at the corner shelf in my Grandma’s living room. It was here, which she kept her collection of teacups. I rarely touched any of them, but oh, I loved their beautiful and wispy pastel patterns swirling across the cups and matching saucers...save for one brightly colored chintz! There was also a floral pattern of roses; deep and richly colored, with bits of leaves scattered among the roses. It was this pattern which inspired my wedding china collection. For this particular teacup and saucer that sat on my Grandmother’s shelf, was always my favorite. Made by Royal Doulton, it is called “Old Country Roses”. A classic pattern, straight from England, and likely to be around forever.
When my Grandmother died, I was too young to take precedence in dispersing her few belongings. So her beloved teacup collection (and mine too!) went to an Aunt, and subsequently, to a cousin. My cousin is a fellow tea-lover, so it isn’t entirely inappropriate—but—I still long for those teacups to reside in my own home, where I can admire them, and remember the dear lady who collected them. My cousin, is such by marriage, and therefore has little memory of my Grandma. But such is life, and such is the way of possessions. I imagine I will always grieve for that collection! In an effort to encourage me, my Aunt (mother-in-law of said cousin) purchased a lovely teacup and saucer one Christmas, and gave it to me. I cried when I opened it, for I knew her heart was to replace my “lost” teacups in the only way she knew how. And so, this first teacup, given in such love to me, began a new collection—mine.
I’ve added to my collection over the years—since before I married. Many are gifts; mostly newer teacups, given by those closest to me. I’ve scoured antique stores on my own, adding beautiful teacups to my collection. And once in awhile, I am given an antique teacup, by someone who knows me well enough to pick out a pattern I love! One particular cup was purchased for myself, by myself...but my husband gave me $20 one terribly depressing day, and sent me antique exploring. It was a difficult winter for me, and for us, and now when I see that cup and saucer (which happens to be a favorite!), I am reminded of his love. The cup and its saucer are white porcelain, and very delicate...the ring of roses around each piece, is faded in color, but still a lovely pastel pinkish hue. The set was made in Bavaria by well-known Zeh Scherzer Co. (often Bavarian china is incredibly patterned with the most beautiful of delicate flowers—typically roses!) Both pieces are edged in a thin scroll of gold, also faded, but not disappearing yet. It is unbelievable that the time away, along with the lovely cup, actually revived my spirits that day, but indeed, my heart was lifted. Although I picked it out alone, I still consider that teacup and saucer to be a gift, and one which will always be close to my heart.
I never choose teacups for the manufacturer, although I have come to love several particular makers...no, I choose them because I love them. Because I will cherish them, use them with care, and someday, Lord willing, pass them on to my daughters.
I love the quiet “clink” sound of teacups in use, as they are set upon their saucers. I love the curved handles, designed to be held by a lady. When I use a teacup (which was more often prior to having children running about!), I enjoy rinsing it with hot water to warm it, and then, once finished with as many cups of tea as I can hold, there is the simple ritual of hand-washing to preserve the patterns gracing the china. With luck, the saucer may be able to hold just a cookie or two for nibbling, as I sip from its matching cup.
These days, I often resort to a floral mug of some sort, because they hold a greater quantity of tea without refilling, and they are sturdier for the constant moving I seem to do, mug in hand. But my deepest preference for drinking tea continues to be the china teacup. And when I gaze at my collection, I am reminded of the story behind each one, and of the woman (my Grandma) who inspired my love for china teacups. I am filled with a quiet sense of peace, a satisfaction in knowing that if there was to be no other beauty in my life, these cups would suffice. Better than fresh roses on the table (as lovely and sweet-smelling as they are), are the roses which adorn my china teacups.
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Friday, September 21, 2007
Life is a gift
Today we attended the funeral for the church member who suddenly died last weekend, from a blood clot to the heart. His dear widow wept through the service; he was her life, and at 65, it will be difficult for her to start over. It was a fine service, officiated by my older brother, who has been mentioned in my blog numerous times. His first funeral to preside over. I’m sure it broke his heart to do it, but he spoke well, and spoke sincerely. He was there when this man was accepted Christ as Savior and was baptized, not all that long ago...was there when each of them had various illnesses requiring hospitalization...and was there when this man passed from this earth into his eternity.
It is a sobering thing, to attend a funeral. My first, in quite some time, that wasn’t for a relative. My last funeral was for my cousin (see tags in sidebar), gone now for almost 2 years. Unbelievably. Today, when I stepped beside the casket to view the man, all I could see was my cousin. They were close in age, both with graying beards and long lashes. I wasn’t able to look for more than a second today—tears came fast and unexpectedly, in the wake of my cousin’s memory. But even throughout the funeral, I found myself shedding tears; I realize that the man is better off now, with His Lord, away from the sorrows of earth. But the grief and shock he leaves behind; the emptiness his widow is feeling (although she will lean heavily on Our Lord), it is heart-wrenching, and difficult to understand. Why did it have to happen to this man, to his wife? She is a dear and sensitive lady, but her life has already been filled with pain and difficulty. Why couldn’t she have him at her side for the remainder of her years? It breaks my heart to see her alone, without him beside her, where he has always been since they joined our small Body. I guess these questions are the same we all ask...it is in these questions that the greatest pain of death lies. For even when we know our loved one is with Our Lord, we still grieve. But not for them, as much as for ourselves. We grieve our loss, we feel our emptiness, we miss our beloved one. We grieve for all they left behind; knowing deep inside, that what they go to is far greater. Death, just like life, is full of contradiction, isn’t it?
I remember Beverly's husband and children this week; and other family members who grieve for her. Another dear one whom we rejoice for, as she is at last, cancer-free; and with her Savior. Yet, she leaves behind a hole. A big one. Older children; one with a family, one starting college...and sons still at home, even young boys in elementary school. A loving husband, who is now, suddenly, thrust into single parenthood, and widowed, simultaneously. Another paradox; joy for her, but sorrow for those who carry on without her. I cannot wish her back, for truly, she is in a glorious eternity...but yet...I cannot wish her gone, for her family needs her still.
This week has been too full of death. Yet we all face it; none of us will escape it, until Our Lord returns. We do not know the moment we will meet with Him for eternity; every moment on earth is a gift. Life is a gift. Yet a greater gift lies beyond. Hard to imagine though; for we learn to dearly love what surrounds us here, even among such a tarnished earth; such a life filled with hardship and pain. We still find love, we find happiness, and if we will trust in Jesus, we find peace, hope, and lasting joy. And so we treasure this gift of life, and we fight to hold onto it. We fight to stay with those we love. And we grieve when the fight is lost by one of our own.
I am thankful this week, to still have those near and dear to me. I am thankful that while I ache for those who have lost loved ones, I am not one of them. Not this time. I am reminded to take every day as it comes. To look for moments of life’s joy, in the midst of struggles. To hug my children and be thankful for them, even in frustration! To hug my husband and be thankful for his life, his support, his presence with us. To remember that life is, indeed, a gift.
It is a sobering thing, to attend a funeral. My first, in quite some time, that wasn’t for a relative. My last funeral was for my cousin (see tags in sidebar), gone now for almost 2 years. Unbelievably. Today, when I stepped beside the casket to view the man, all I could see was my cousin. They were close in age, both with graying beards and long lashes. I wasn’t able to look for more than a second today—tears came fast and unexpectedly, in the wake of my cousin’s memory. But even throughout the funeral, I found myself shedding tears; I realize that the man is better off now, with His Lord, away from the sorrows of earth. But the grief and shock he leaves behind; the emptiness his widow is feeling (although she will lean heavily on Our Lord), it is heart-wrenching, and difficult to understand. Why did it have to happen to this man, to his wife? She is a dear and sensitive lady, but her life has already been filled with pain and difficulty. Why couldn’t she have him at her side for the remainder of her years? It breaks my heart to see her alone, without him beside her, where he has always been since they joined our small Body. I guess these questions are the same we all ask...it is in these questions that the greatest pain of death lies. For even when we know our loved one is with Our Lord, we still grieve. But not for them, as much as for ourselves. We grieve our loss, we feel our emptiness, we miss our beloved one. We grieve for all they left behind; knowing deep inside, that what they go to is far greater. Death, just like life, is full of contradiction, isn’t it?
I remember Beverly's husband and children this week; and other family members who grieve for her. Another dear one whom we rejoice for, as she is at last, cancer-free; and with her Savior. Yet, she leaves behind a hole. A big one. Older children; one with a family, one starting college...and sons still at home, even young boys in elementary school. A loving husband, who is now, suddenly, thrust into single parenthood, and widowed, simultaneously. Another paradox; joy for her, but sorrow for those who carry on without her. I cannot wish her back, for truly, she is in a glorious eternity...but yet...I cannot wish her gone, for her family needs her still.
This week has been too full of death. Yet we all face it; none of us will escape it, until Our Lord returns. We do not know the moment we will meet with Him for eternity; every moment on earth is a gift. Life is a gift. Yet a greater gift lies beyond. Hard to imagine though; for we learn to dearly love what surrounds us here, even among such a tarnished earth; such a life filled with hardship and pain. We still find love, we find happiness, and if we will trust in Jesus, we find peace, hope, and lasting joy. And so we treasure this gift of life, and we fight to hold onto it. We fight to stay with those we love. And we grieve when the fight is lost by one of our own.
I am thankful this week, to still have those near and dear to me. I am thankful that while I ache for those who have lost loved ones, I am not one of them. Not this time. I am reminded to take every day as it comes. To look for moments of life’s joy, in the midst of struggles. To hug my children and be thankful for them, even in frustration! To hug my husband and be thankful for his life, his support, his presence with us. To remember that life is, indeed, a gift.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
A bad day, but a good recipe!
My husband worked at least 70 hours this week. So he’s pretty exhausted, and is back at work tonight. I can barely move, feel quite exhausted myself from this week, and am enjoying practice contractions. This morning, neither of us could move. Not that there’s actually a choice in the matter!! We did of course, have to get up and feed/care for the kids. I lacked energy to make tea; which is unfortunate, because my day went from bad to worse!
It all started this morning...we noticed a couple of little mealy worms on the kitchen floor. The kind that infests flour and such products. No big deal. Kill them and find the infestation...usually a bag of flour...get rid of it, and problem solved. I’ve only had one infestation before, years ago, in another home. It was awful, but after tossing some bags and boxes and spraying and cleaning the pantry cabinet, no more problems. And 2 little wormy creatures didn’t really equal an infestation anyway. But those couple worms turned into a LOT of them; they kept coming out. And we kept killing them. There wasn’t really a source...a nearly empty box of cornstarch perhaps...no flour sacks, no oatmeal boxes. Nothing else. Weird I thought...wonder where they came from and what is driving them to crawl into daylight? We spent all morning killing the little creatures, vacuuming, mopping every inch of vinyl flooring.... Finally, they are all gone. And my kitchen needed a good mop anyway :)
About the time we finally finished with the little wormy creatures, I noticed a puddle of water on the floor, in front of the cabinets. Kind of a big puddle. Another one was in front of the pantry closet in an adjoining laundry/bath. Hmmmmm. In fact, getting on my hands and knees, I noticed that the kick plates (trim boards under cabinets) were seeping water. Nothing under the sink though...and no leaking from the dishwasher. The floor of the pantry closet was wet though. Which meant only one thing. Somehow, somewhere, the shower (all tiled from floor to ceiling, and on the opposite side of the kitchen wall) had a leak. Either in the drain (and above the concrete slab foundation) or in the water supply lines. Not good. Not good at all. There was a lot of water continuing to seep into the kitchen, pantry, under wall trim and so forth. It made sense...the water had driven those nasty little worm creatures out. They were probably attracted to the dampness behind the walls...yes, that was most likely the source. Uh-oh. So we might have had water there for quite some time. Not. Good. Indeed, those little bugs turned out to be the least of our problems.
Just as we were busily mopping up water, my Mom called, then my Dad with some sad news. A member of our congregation, a man only around 50, died from 2 blood clots hitting his heart. The result of another recent injury. He leaves behind his 65-yr-old wife; though mismatched in age, the couple loved eachother dearly, took good care of one another, and lived simply and frugally. We were quite concerned for his dear wife, no doubt devastated by this sudden and tragic loss—but—holding up well under the circumstances. In the midst of our own mini-crisis, I am thankful that our crisis can be fixed (eventually) and cleaned up...her life has changed forever. A sobering thought.
We soaked up towels of water all day long, as water continued to seep under floor trim...this afternoon my Dad dropped by to have a look. My husband had to change clothes and leave for work. So my Dad (thankfully!) tore off some trim, pieces of wallboard (which was soft behind the trim—yikes!), and then cut a square of wall from the pantry closet which reveals the water supply lines for the shower. Bingo. Corrosion. The upside is, the shower shouldn’t need to be torn out, as it isn’t a drain issue and the pipes are now visible. I can also use the sink, dishwasher, washing machine, and toilet—just not the shower; that helps with convenience, as I have piles of laundry to do (as usual!), and now a pile of wet towels to wash and dry. The downside is, I have pinhole leaks in the supply line which are dripping water currently...my kitchen is a mess, my laundry/bath/pantry is disheveled...and we haven’t talked to a plumber yet, so we don’t know what kind of bill we’re looking at. And water is still seeping.
After a day like this, I am exhausted. I’ve missed the usual rest a Sunday brings, the time to enjoy one another, read to the kids and so forth. But I felt the necessity to make dinner for the little ones. Something worthwhile to fill their tummies before bed. And so, taking stock of what I had on hand, and with only a tiny bit of energy left, here is what I made. It turned out well and the kids loved it!
Spaghetti Frittata
8 eggs
8 oz pkg diced ham
1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
About 2 cups leftover cooked spaghetti
Some green onions, chopped
Extra cheese for topping, if desired
Whisk eggs in bowl. Stir in ham, cheese, spaghetti, and onions. Pour into baking dish and sprinkle more cheese over the top. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 30 minutes at 350 degrees. Pull it out and enjoy! If you have a bit more spaghetti leftover, go ahead and toss it all into the mixture; if you have less, adjust the recipe. If you want to add mushrooms (I forgot mine!!) or another vegetable such as spinach, do that. You could also make it in a skillet if you’d rather, and cook till the eggs are set. I was too tired to stand by the stove tonight, so I baked mine.
It all started this morning...we noticed a couple of little mealy worms on the kitchen floor. The kind that infests flour and such products. No big deal. Kill them and find the infestation...usually a bag of flour...get rid of it, and problem solved. I’ve only had one infestation before, years ago, in another home. It was awful, but after tossing some bags and boxes and spraying and cleaning the pantry cabinet, no more problems. And 2 little wormy creatures didn’t really equal an infestation anyway. But those couple worms turned into a LOT of them; they kept coming out. And we kept killing them. There wasn’t really a source...a nearly empty box of cornstarch perhaps...no flour sacks, no oatmeal boxes. Nothing else. Weird I thought...wonder where they came from and what is driving them to crawl into daylight? We spent all morning killing the little creatures, vacuuming, mopping every inch of vinyl flooring.... Finally, they are all gone. And my kitchen needed a good mop anyway :)
About the time we finally finished with the little wormy creatures, I noticed a puddle of water on the floor, in front of the cabinets. Kind of a big puddle. Another one was in front of the pantry closet in an adjoining laundry/bath. Hmmmmm. In fact, getting on my hands and knees, I noticed that the kick plates (trim boards under cabinets) were seeping water. Nothing under the sink though...and no leaking from the dishwasher. The floor of the pantry closet was wet though. Which meant only one thing. Somehow, somewhere, the shower (all tiled from floor to ceiling, and on the opposite side of the kitchen wall) had a leak. Either in the drain (and above the concrete slab foundation) or in the water supply lines. Not good. Not good at all. There was a lot of water continuing to seep into the kitchen, pantry, under wall trim and so forth. It made sense...the water had driven those nasty little worm creatures out. They were probably attracted to the dampness behind the walls...yes, that was most likely the source. Uh-oh. So we might have had water there for quite some time. Not. Good. Indeed, those little bugs turned out to be the least of our problems.
Just as we were busily mopping up water, my Mom called, then my Dad with some sad news. A member of our congregation, a man only around 50, died from 2 blood clots hitting his heart. The result of another recent injury. He leaves behind his 65-yr-old wife; though mismatched in age, the couple loved eachother dearly, took good care of one another, and lived simply and frugally. We were quite concerned for his dear wife, no doubt devastated by this sudden and tragic loss—but—holding up well under the circumstances. In the midst of our own mini-crisis, I am thankful that our crisis can be fixed (eventually) and cleaned up...her life has changed forever. A sobering thought.
We soaked up towels of water all day long, as water continued to seep under floor trim...this afternoon my Dad dropped by to have a look. My husband had to change clothes and leave for work. So my Dad (thankfully!) tore off some trim, pieces of wallboard (which was soft behind the trim—yikes!), and then cut a square of wall from the pantry closet which reveals the water supply lines for the shower. Bingo. Corrosion. The upside is, the shower shouldn’t need to be torn out, as it isn’t a drain issue and the pipes are now visible. I can also use the sink, dishwasher, washing machine, and toilet—just not the shower; that helps with convenience, as I have piles of laundry to do (as usual!), and now a pile of wet towels to wash and dry. The downside is, I have pinhole leaks in the supply line which are dripping water currently...my kitchen is a mess, my laundry/bath/pantry is disheveled...and we haven’t talked to a plumber yet, so we don’t know what kind of bill we’re looking at. And water is still seeping.
After a day like this, I am exhausted. I’ve missed the usual rest a Sunday brings, the time to enjoy one another, read to the kids and so forth. But I felt the necessity to make dinner for the little ones. Something worthwhile to fill their tummies before bed. And so, taking stock of what I had on hand, and with only a tiny bit of energy left, here is what I made. It turned out well and the kids loved it!
Spaghetti Frittata
8 eggs
8 oz pkg diced ham
1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
About 2 cups leftover cooked spaghetti
Some green onions, chopped
Extra cheese for topping, if desired
Whisk eggs in bowl. Stir in ham, cheese, spaghetti, and onions. Pour into baking dish and sprinkle more cheese over the top. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 30 minutes at 350 degrees. Pull it out and enjoy! If you have a bit more spaghetti leftover, go ahead and toss it all into the mixture; if you have less, adjust the recipe. If you want to add mushrooms (I forgot mine!!) or another vegetable such as spinach, do that. You could also make it in a skillet if you’d rather, and cook till the eggs are set. I was too tired to stand by the stove tonight, so I baked mine.
Saturday, September 8, 2007
A Week's Worth of Blessings
Well, another week has come and gone...and a busy one around our home, it was! So, I completely missed my usual “Thankful Thursday” post, without even realizing it. Oops. But I must say, despite some normal difficulties encountered, the week did hold plenty to be thankful for. Today I will call them “Blessings”.
I’ve said this before, but we really do have a wonderful library system in our city, and I’m so thankful for this resource! I particularly enjoyed checking out a few books for myself this week.
A delightful new e-zine publication, Seasonal Delights, just in time to welcome in the season of Autumn. I enjoyed printing some of the lovely pages this week, which included new recipes to try!
My friend and “Japanese sister” (we go back to high school, when she came to America to complete her education) came by for a visit this week. She even brought me a Starbucks. What a way to start the day!!
Just a few days after praying about some of our family needs, another friend (also from high school!) brought over 3 bags of clothing for my children! Her 3 kids are each about 1-2 years ahead of mine (by age) and so their outgrown clothes work perfectly for my kids. Among the items is a winter coat for my youngest...winter coats for my older two were received several weeks ago as well. It is an amazing blessing to receive hand-me-downs, and it is a pleasure to turn around then, and pass our outgrown items to another family and keep the circle going.
My blood sugar levels have been relatively easy to maintain with this pregnancy; at least so far! I do try and be careful to keep my protein intake high and my carb intake lower, but it is truly a blessing to be somewhat relaxed about it. (I had gestational diabetes in my last pregnancy, and therefore have strong potential to develop it again).
I received the “Nice Matters” award from another blogging friend on xanga. If you haven’t met Karen, do drop by and say “hi” to her. She is raising a large family, but somehow makes it look easy and delightful. I’ve been inspired to relax and enjoy my growing family, through reading her blog for over a year now. Her compliments to me were so sweet and humbling, and it is truly a delight to be an encouragement to the other ladies I meet, or those who simply drop in to read my blog.
Another hour or so, and I will be finished going through my children’s clothing for the next season...this becomes a bigger job with each child, but is a necessary one, and I don’t mind doing it at all. It just takes some time and patience.
My eyelet-trimmed baby quilt is completed (a simple patchwork), along with a few other small sewing projects. If our digital camera was working, I’d take photos to post. I love to sew, and it is a joy to have time here and there to work on this hobby.
A fresh new week is just around the corner, and with it, will come a couple days of cooler temperatures, and the possibility for rain; which we really do need. Some fresh air will be wonderful and we might just have some perfect ‘outdoor’ days ahead!
My husband and my children are always cherished. Oh, we have our days, our moments...there are times I really feel the need to escape to the nearest Starbucks...but I am so thankful for each of them, and for this precious life I carry. She is becoming quite active and I love the frequent reminders of her presence, which come along with every roll and kick!
I’ve said this before, but we really do have a wonderful library system in our city, and I’m so thankful for this resource! I particularly enjoyed checking out a few books for myself this week.
A delightful new e-zine publication, Seasonal Delights, just in time to welcome in the season of Autumn. I enjoyed printing some of the lovely pages this week, which included new recipes to try!
My friend and “Japanese sister” (we go back to high school, when she came to America to complete her education) came by for a visit this week. She even brought me a Starbucks. What a way to start the day!!
Just a few days after praying about some of our family needs, another friend (also from high school!) brought over 3 bags of clothing for my children! Her 3 kids are each about 1-2 years ahead of mine (by age) and so their outgrown clothes work perfectly for my kids. Among the items is a winter coat for my youngest...winter coats for my older two were received several weeks ago as well. It is an amazing blessing to receive hand-me-downs, and it is a pleasure to turn around then, and pass our outgrown items to another family and keep the circle going.
My blood sugar levels have been relatively easy to maintain with this pregnancy; at least so far! I do try and be careful to keep my protein intake high and my carb intake lower, but it is truly a blessing to be somewhat relaxed about it. (I had gestational diabetes in my last pregnancy, and therefore have strong potential to develop it again).
I received the “Nice Matters” award from another blogging friend on xanga. If you haven’t met Karen, do drop by and say “hi” to her. She is raising a large family, but somehow makes it look easy and delightful. I’ve been inspired to relax and enjoy my growing family, through reading her blog for over a year now. Her compliments to me were so sweet and humbling, and it is truly a delight to be an encouragement to the other ladies I meet, or those who simply drop in to read my blog.
Another hour or so, and I will be finished going through my children’s clothing for the next season...this becomes a bigger job with each child, but is a necessary one, and I don’t mind doing it at all. It just takes some time and patience.
My eyelet-trimmed baby quilt is completed (a simple patchwork), along with a few other small sewing projects. If our digital camera was working, I’d take photos to post. I love to sew, and it is a joy to have time here and there to work on this hobby.
A fresh new week is just around the corner, and with it, will come a couple days of cooler temperatures, and the possibility for rain; which we really do need. Some fresh air will be wonderful and we might just have some perfect ‘outdoor’ days ahead!
My husband and my children are always cherished. Oh, we have our days, our moments...there are times I really feel the need to escape to the nearest Starbucks...but I am so thankful for each of them, and for this precious life I carry. She is becoming quite active and I love the frequent reminders of her presence, which come along with every roll and kick!
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Thursday's Thankful List
Another Thursday has come; time to consider all that which makes up my world and choose thankfulness in the midst of worries life brings. Today it is particularly challenging, for while there is no short of basic blessings; food, water, a home, a soft bed, showers, and so forth…it has still been an unusually trying week, with my husband’s schedule changes and various behavior issues we are working on in our little home. And I am so weary this week; from disturbed rest (late 2nd trimester changes, I’m sure!). We have completed only a bit of school today, but are taking a break to be outside.
This morning, my youngest (2) woke up at 5am. Yep, that’s right 5:00AM. Who knows why…but…she is still up. No nap yet, no rest…just energy. I’m thankful she isn’t whiny and crying as would typically be expected. She seems quite jovial today! But her Mama is tired and less jovial. My son was up at 6am, then our oldest at 7am. The older 2 needed a bit more rest I think, and so perhaps we will have early bedtimes tonight! And if I’m successful in this, then I will have another reason to be thankful! LOL.
I’m thankful to have completed a load of laundry, although I have much more to work on. J
I’m thankful that the weather has cooled, if only for today. There is still humidity in the air, and mosquitoes flying everywhere…but…we are enjoying a pleasant morning outdoors. Due to the heat, we haven’t been outside for morning playtime in awhile, so it’s good to have fresh air in our lungs and enjoy the sounds of nature. A cool breeze blows through every couple of minutes as well.
I’m thankful that the early signs of Fall are appearing (partly due to dryness, but appearing just the same!)…leaves are already falling from the trees, though not in great numbers yet. Our neighbor’s tree is slowly turning yellow, and the deep blue of the summertime sky is taking on a grayish hue reminiscent of cooler weather. The deep, dark green of our trees is fading every so slightly, in readiness for the changing colors ahead. And the coneflower has dried up now as well. Indeed, Fall is coming, slowly yet, but still on its way.
I’m thankful that my kids are healthy and (relatively) happy. I watch as they run about the yard, dig in the sandbox, and swing on our swingset. It may not last long, as inevitably a disagreement will erupt—but—for now, it is blissful to hear the sounds, and to see, even my youngest running around on her squatty toddler legs.
I’m thankful for the pumpkin patch my Dad planted, which we will enjoy in another month or two!
I’m thankful for the lovely little family celebration we had this week, for my baby’s 2nd birthday. Complete with my chocolate cake covered in chocolate frosting. Mmmmmmmmm.
I’m thankful to have my family; my children and my husband, however difficult this week is, and no matter how weary I become. I wouldn’t trade any of them, nor the little one growing inside me. Speaking of which, I am also grateful to feel her little kicks each day, as they grow stronger and stronger. A pleasant reminder of her existence in our lives.
This morning, my youngest (2) woke up at 5am. Yep, that’s right 5:00AM. Who knows why…but…she is still up. No nap yet, no rest…just energy. I’m thankful she isn’t whiny and crying as would typically be expected. She seems quite jovial today! But her Mama is tired and less jovial. My son was up at 6am, then our oldest at 7am. The older 2 needed a bit more rest I think, and so perhaps we will have early bedtimes tonight! And if I’m successful in this, then I will have another reason to be thankful! LOL.
I’m thankful to have completed a load of laundry, although I have much more to work on. J
I’m thankful that the weather has cooled, if only for today. There is still humidity in the air, and mosquitoes flying everywhere…but…we are enjoying a pleasant morning outdoors. Due to the heat, we haven’t been outside for morning playtime in awhile, so it’s good to have fresh air in our lungs and enjoy the sounds of nature. A cool breeze blows through every couple of minutes as well.
I’m thankful that the early signs of Fall are appearing (partly due to dryness, but appearing just the same!)…leaves are already falling from the trees, though not in great numbers yet. Our neighbor’s tree is slowly turning yellow, and the deep blue of the summertime sky is taking on a grayish hue reminiscent of cooler weather. The deep, dark green of our trees is fading every so slightly, in readiness for the changing colors ahead. And the coneflower has dried up now as well. Indeed, Fall is coming, slowly yet, but still on its way.
I’m thankful that my kids are healthy and (relatively) happy. I watch as they run about the yard, dig in the sandbox, and swing on our swingset. It may not last long, as inevitably a disagreement will erupt—but—for now, it is blissful to hear the sounds, and to see, even my youngest running around on her squatty toddler legs.
I’m thankful for the pumpkin patch my Dad planted, which we will enjoy in another month or two!
I’m thankful for the lovely little family celebration we had this week, for my baby’s 2nd birthday. Complete with my chocolate cake covered in chocolate frosting. Mmmmmmmmm.
I’m thankful to have my family; my children and my husband, however difficult this week is, and no matter how weary I become. I wouldn’t trade any of them, nor the little one growing inside me. Speaking of which, I am also grateful to feel her little kicks each day, as they grow stronger and stronger. A pleasant reminder of her existence in our lives.
Friday, August 24, 2007
Today is a delightfully overcast; the winds are blowing gray clouds to cover the pale blue in our late summer sky. I can hear the delicate clanging of my wind chime as it sways from its perch. We had a brief shower of rain this morning, but not enough to soak our grass…so I am (of course) hoping for more before the day is over. Crunchy granola bakes in my oven this afternoon, filling our home with its honey-cinnamon scent. It will be a lovely snack, with golden raisins and dried cranberries added to it, once it has cooled. It is these simple things I am thankful for, this week. J
We are in a period of adjustment, as my husband has just changed work locations (inconveniently and more expensively—to the other side of town!). Along with this, comes a great deal of hours changes as well. Not all a bad thing, as he will likely work a few less hours per week—but—we will all be adjusting to the changes, as he will work most evening hours now. And his days off will vary from week to week, including the addition of Sunday hours to his new schedule (but not every Sunday, thankfully). So, our week has been filled with discussion of these changes, and I haven’t figured out my new routine yet, with him home each morning. School has been hit and miss I’m afraid, but we should begin working towards normalcy next week. Amidst the disruption, I am thankful that he has a job, when many do not.
I am thankful that our home is dry, and not full of mud or flood-waters as are many homes in Oklahoma, Ohio, Wisconsin, and other areas recently ravaged by unforgiving rainfalls, mudslides, and so forth. The death count from these floods is nearly 30; what unexpected tragedies for these families. I am thankful that we are (for this moment) safe as we go about our lives. Only God knows what tonight will bring, what tomorrow will bring, and what our future holds. I am grateful that I can rest in His peace, knowing that whatever He allows, He will also give the grace to handle it. Easier said, than practiced, when times of trial come, isn’t it? The depth of our faith is revealed in fire.
Another thankful item…my fellow blogger and friend TaunaLen has generously offered me a "Nice Matters" award on her blogs. So sweet of her! Thank you, Tauna! I think I could easily award it to any of my favorite blogs! I am grateful for my friends in this xanga community, and also, for the many bloggers I find in other blogging communities. I am amazed at the wonderful ideas, recipes, hints, advice and information that I can read through, with only the light tap of my mousepad. Using bloglines, or another feed, I can group my favorite blogs together, and it is like putting together my own magazine, specifically tailored to my personal preferences for subject matter. I’m thankful for the few moments I have every day or two, to browse blogs, print new recipes, jot down new books to review, and generally be encouraged and inspired.
We are in a period of adjustment, as my husband has just changed work locations (inconveniently and more expensively—to the other side of town!). Along with this, comes a great deal of hours changes as well. Not all a bad thing, as he will likely work a few less hours per week—but—we will all be adjusting to the changes, as he will work most evening hours now. And his days off will vary from week to week, including the addition of Sunday hours to his new schedule (but not every Sunday, thankfully). So, our week has been filled with discussion of these changes, and I haven’t figured out my new routine yet, with him home each morning. School has been hit and miss I’m afraid, but we should begin working towards normalcy next week. Amidst the disruption, I am thankful that he has a job, when many do not.
I am thankful that our home is dry, and not full of mud or flood-waters as are many homes in Oklahoma, Ohio, Wisconsin, and other areas recently ravaged by unforgiving rainfalls, mudslides, and so forth. The death count from these floods is nearly 30; what unexpected tragedies for these families. I am thankful that we are (for this moment) safe as we go about our lives. Only God knows what tonight will bring, what tomorrow will bring, and what our future holds. I am grateful that I can rest in His peace, knowing that whatever He allows, He will also give the grace to handle it. Easier said, than practiced, when times of trial come, isn’t it? The depth of our faith is revealed in fire.
Another thankful item…my fellow blogger and friend TaunaLen has generously offered me a "Nice Matters" award on her blogs. So sweet of her! Thank you, Tauna! I think I could easily award it to any of my favorite blogs! I am grateful for my friends in this xanga community, and also, for the many bloggers I find in other blogging communities. I am amazed at the wonderful ideas, recipes, hints, advice and information that I can read through, with only the light tap of my mousepad. Using bloglines, or another feed, I can group my favorite blogs together, and it is like putting together my own magazine, specifically tailored to my personal preferences for subject matter. I’m thankful for the few moments I have every day or two, to browse blogs, print new recipes, jot down new books to review, and generally be encouraged and inspired.
Monday, August 20, 2007
All in a Day of Teaching
Some days, it is the teacher who learns more than the student. Today, we (my daughter and I) began to work on Math again—after probably too much of a break from it (can you say ‘retention loss’?). In only a few minutes, my bright daughter was frustrated to the point of tears, as was her teacher (me). It’s not so much that she can’t remember her addition facts, it is more that she’s not trying to—even with prompting such as “count by 5s, honey!”. She is discouraged before we really even start! Quietly concerned, I sat down with my Ray’s Arithmetic books, and most importantly, the Teacher Guide to the series (written by well-respected Dr Ruth Beechick). I realized that I had not done enough review with my daughter, as we were learning—at least not as much as she needed to learn her facts more concretely. She had done well with visualization and so I had moved on…but…after a summer break, it is apparent that we will need to do a LOT of review before moving forward. And that’s okay…I’m still learning too. Math is not her strong subject and memorization is not her strength either. She simply excels in other areas. And, adding to the challenge, she hates worksheets and drill work! But gentle drill we must do; review, review, review. I’m not concerned; she will catch up when she’s ready, as long as we are diligently working at it.
Back to her tears…several minutes later she is expressing a ridiculous amount of frustration over problems that are not difficult, but do require effort. She is allowed to use manipulatives to figure her work, so there really shouldn’t be ANY frustration. Furthermore, there is still an inordinate amount of tears. “Maybe she’s tired,” I think. But this goes deeper than the words “settle down!” Gathering my patience and a much kinder voice, I follow her to her room where she has retreated to do her work in quiet. Asking a couple questions about her frustration yields large teardrops falling to her page of problems. I’m so glad I took time to stop and listen to my little girl. I quickly hear that her voice holds more hurt than anger. She calls herself ‘stupid’ and ‘bad at math’—well, she is bright (as are all children, in their own ways!) and barely starting 3rd grade is far too early to be considered ‘bad’ at any subject, much less math! I tell her this gently and we talk some more….
My little one puts on a strong front, and can be quite the “know-it-all” (dare I guess where she gets it?), but deep inside she has the same streak of sensitivity I have. It’s the kind that never lets on when something hurts us; we probably don’t even cry, maybe not for weeks and weeks. Until one day, something punches that hidden bubble, and it bursts. Turns out, while taking a roadtrip last Spring, with one of her playmates, they had played an oral math game. Very soon into the game, my daughter couldn’t answer the problems anymore. She was told firmly by her peer, that she wasn’t very good at math at all. Maybe a couple of other demeaning statements; not really so cruelly intended at all—just a kid saying what kids say. Well, this situation was never shared with us, her parents, in typical half-kid/half-preteen fashion. She is just beginning those years of maturing, at the young age of 8. So, anyway…the story comes out, through tears. Those thoughtless but very typical kid-to-kid remarks cut my little one deeply, adding to an insecurity she already had, just because math frustrates her and she knows she doesn’t “get it” easily. Unfortunately, these types of kid statements are made, not infrequently, by this friend, so we are careful with the time my daughter spends with her (and we continue to work with our girl on learning to have self-confidence no matter what others say, and on placing importance in what God thinks, not what others think, etc. She will toughen up as she grows, but I want the toughening to be healthy confidence, and not just a brick wall around her heart!) My young one goes on to say that the remarks hurt her, and so she quit telling others that math wasn’t her thing; she made sure to keep it a secret from everyone else. My Mother’s heart nearly broke…I wish I had probed more about her hatred of math a few months ago, and learned then, what I learned today. Her resistance to math work, is what led me to choose to take a break from it, and has also led to frustration on my part as well, when it became a discipline issue. I had no idea there was a deeper “heart” issue at stake.
I lied down on her bed, and had her come snuggle with me as we talked more about it, and talked about strengths and weaknesses, our feelings, developing confidence in ourselves and most importantly in who we are in God, etc. Several minutes later, she seemed better, and was able to calmly sit and finish her work. Using her manipulatives, but with no more tears, no more frustration, and the gentle reassurance from her Mom that she desperately needs, but which I have been too lax at offering (much to my own shame). She is now having a remarkably good day, and playing happily—although—I’m not sure how much more “school” will be completed. I think we may have both learned enough for today!
Times like this, I am so glad she is at home with me, to learn. Although I learned some lessons today myself—I surely did!—I also was able to love her as her Mother, and offer unqualified acceptance to her broken little heart. I was able to see past defiance and frustration and (finally) discover the heart issue at stake with this subject called “math”. I wish I had slowed down and taken more time weeks ago; displayed more patience and softness to my little girl. It is so easy to think of her as ‘half-grown’ because she is my oldest. But she is far from grown, and is still quite young and in need of help, more often than she likes to admit. I must learn to be sensitive to this; of course, children come to us in their own time, and there’s no guarantee that she would have shared her troubles back when it happened. But I hadn’t given her enough opportunity either. Children need to feel safe and loved and protected before they will open up; another lesson to remember!
My patience and diligence—as both her Mother and her Teacher—are crucial now, especially in math. We have much review to do, but she is young and we have plenty of time. There is no need to worry if she is keeping up with her peers; as long as we keep moving forward, she will catch up. One reason to homeschool, is for the sake of individuality—for the purpose of *not* forcing my children to fit into the “one-speed-fits-all” box that prevails in typical school systems. I will develop a plan which will mix the use of worksheets (I can custom-print my own), the use of colorful ‘review’ type workbooks (already own, thanks to sister-in-law cleaning out her bookshelves!), the use of oral work and flashcard games, and, my daughter’s favorite—computer games (free on internet)! I will be using a similar mix of activities to work with my son on the alphabet and phonics. And maybe, for his math as well. (Which explains our interest in setting up an older computer with the new parts necessary to have our kids use it for educational purposes). I believe, with our combined efforts (of both myself and my daughter), we can conquer her math fears and hopefully, build a general sense of confidence in her heart as well, as we review and learn.
Back to her tears…several minutes later she is expressing a ridiculous amount of frustration over problems that are not difficult, but do require effort. She is allowed to use manipulatives to figure her work, so there really shouldn’t be ANY frustration. Furthermore, there is still an inordinate amount of tears. “Maybe she’s tired,” I think. But this goes deeper than the words “settle down!” Gathering my patience and a much kinder voice, I follow her to her room where she has retreated to do her work in quiet. Asking a couple questions about her frustration yields large teardrops falling to her page of problems. I’m so glad I took time to stop and listen to my little girl. I quickly hear that her voice holds more hurt than anger. She calls herself ‘stupid’ and ‘bad at math’—well, she is bright (as are all children, in their own ways!) and barely starting 3rd grade is far too early to be considered ‘bad’ at any subject, much less math! I tell her this gently and we talk some more….
My little one puts on a strong front, and can be quite the “know-it-all” (dare I guess where she gets it?), but deep inside she has the same streak of sensitivity I have. It’s the kind that never lets on when something hurts us; we probably don’t even cry, maybe not for weeks and weeks. Until one day, something punches that hidden bubble, and it bursts. Turns out, while taking a roadtrip last Spring, with one of her playmates, they had played an oral math game. Very soon into the game, my daughter couldn’t answer the problems anymore. She was told firmly by her peer, that she wasn’t very good at math at all. Maybe a couple of other demeaning statements; not really so cruelly intended at all—just a kid saying what kids say. Well, this situation was never shared with us, her parents, in typical half-kid/half-preteen fashion. She is just beginning those years of maturing, at the young age of 8. So, anyway…the story comes out, through tears. Those thoughtless but very typical kid-to-kid remarks cut my little one deeply, adding to an insecurity she already had, just because math frustrates her and she knows she doesn’t “get it” easily. Unfortunately, these types of kid statements are made, not infrequently, by this friend, so we are careful with the time my daughter spends with her (and we continue to work with our girl on learning to have self-confidence no matter what others say, and on placing importance in what God thinks, not what others think, etc. She will toughen up as she grows, but I want the toughening to be healthy confidence, and not just a brick wall around her heart!) My young one goes on to say that the remarks hurt her, and so she quit telling others that math wasn’t her thing; she made sure to keep it a secret from everyone else. My Mother’s heart nearly broke…I wish I had probed more about her hatred of math a few months ago, and learned then, what I learned today. Her resistance to math work, is what led me to choose to take a break from it, and has also led to frustration on my part as well, when it became a discipline issue. I had no idea there was a deeper “heart” issue at stake.
I lied down on her bed, and had her come snuggle with me as we talked more about it, and talked about strengths and weaknesses, our feelings, developing confidence in ourselves and most importantly in who we are in God, etc. Several minutes later, she seemed better, and was able to calmly sit and finish her work. Using her manipulatives, but with no more tears, no more frustration, and the gentle reassurance from her Mom that she desperately needs, but which I have been too lax at offering (much to my own shame). She is now having a remarkably good day, and playing happily—although—I’m not sure how much more “school” will be completed. I think we may have both learned enough for today!
Times like this, I am so glad she is at home with me, to learn. Although I learned some lessons today myself—I surely did!—I also was able to love her as her Mother, and offer unqualified acceptance to her broken little heart. I was able to see past defiance and frustration and (finally) discover the heart issue at stake with this subject called “math”. I wish I had slowed down and taken more time weeks ago; displayed more patience and softness to my little girl. It is so easy to think of her as ‘half-grown’ because she is my oldest. But she is far from grown, and is still quite young and in need of help, more often than she likes to admit. I must learn to be sensitive to this; of course, children come to us in their own time, and there’s no guarantee that she would have shared her troubles back when it happened. But I hadn’t given her enough opportunity either. Children need to feel safe and loved and protected before they will open up; another lesson to remember!
My patience and diligence—as both her Mother and her Teacher—are crucial now, especially in math. We have much review to do, but she is young and we have plenty of time. There is no need to worry if she is keeping up with her peers; as long as we keep moving forward, she will catch up. One reason to homeschool, is for the sake of individuality—for the purpose of *not* forcing my children to fit into the “one-speed-fits-all” box that prevails in typical school systems. I will develop a plan which will mix the use of worksheets (I can custom-print my own), the use of colorful ‘review’ type workbooks (already own, thanks to sister-in-law cleaning out her bookshelves!), the use of oral work and flashcard games, and, my daughter’s favorite—computer games (free on internet)! I will be using a similar mix of activities to work with my son on the alphabet and phonics. And maybe, for his math as well. (Which explains our interest in setting up an older computer with the new parts necessary to have our kids use it for educational purposes). I believe, with our combined efforts (of both myself and my daughter), we can conquer her math fears and hopefully, build a general sense of confidence in her heart as well, as we review and learn.
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