My sweet, spunky ball of fire is turning 3 this weekend. Can you believe it? Is there anyone who doesn't say that the time goes by so quickly? Anyway, we were trying to figure out what to do for her birthday, and couldn't really come up with anything. I'm one of those people who is a little torn about birthday parties. While I love having people over to eat and hang out, I am a little hesitant to have a "birthday" party for a three-year old. Everything ends up being so over-the-top. Does everyone really need a theme? Matching hats, decorations, party invitations, favors, etc? And then there are the gifts. Elise has so many things already, and I hate making people feel like they need to buy something for her. But if we don't do something we look like stick-in-the-muds. Or worse.
So I asked Elise what she wanted to do. A few weeks back, our church had a "bounce night" for any kids who wanted to come. They filled the gym with blow up stuff and just let the kids have at it. When I asked Elise what she wanted, she said she wanted to bounce and have a Barbie cake.
I found out that our church lets people borrow the smallest of the bouncy mats for no cost. And this week we have been putting together one of those Barbie cakes made from a batter bowl. We invited our play group over for tomorrow afternoon (about 6 kids) to eat Barbie cake and bounce.
It's a win-win-win (anyone remember that episode of The Office? Conflict Resolution? That was when the show was so funny!)
I love looking at cool websites and Pinterest, but sometimes (at least for me) reading all of that can make me have these expectations that I need to be super mom in order for my kids to have a good time. I need to check myself sometimes and just realize that I am doing what I can for my kids. They don't know that they "need" a portrait of every first day of school on an amazing homemade canvas. They just want to be loved and known.
So, if anyone is looking for us for the next few days, we'll be bouncing.
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Monday, April 16, 2012
homemade hummus
I think about a year ago I was introduced to hummus. I found it on clearance at Meijer one day and tried it. Of course, they hooked me, and now I want it every time I go there, even when it's not on sale. David swears it's because we eat the hummus with these:
Oh, sweet mercy, they are good. I think that in my mind I justify eating so many of them because they kind of look healthy. But a whole bag of anything isn't really healthy. But I digress. . .
Last week when I was trying to find a new food, I bought some garbanzo beans, also known as chickpeas, which is the main ingredient in hummus. Does anyone know why the same food has 2 different names? Enlighten me, please. Anyway, I decided I would make my own hummus. And it was pretty easy. The only other thing I really needed was Tahini sauce, which is made from sesame seeds (I think).
So, you just put a can of chickpeas in your food processor with some garlic, some Tahini sauce, lemon juice, salt, and then whatever you want to add flavoring (pine nuts, red pepper, basil, etc.).
Unless you are like me and don't own a food processor. In that case, use your blender.
In the end, it turned out to be delicious, and we didn't even have the amazing pretzels! We ate it all the way to Chicago to pick my brother up from his trip to Haiti.
So, anybody have some new food ideas for me to try next week?
Oh, sweet mercy, they are good. I think that in my mind I justify eating so many of them because they kind of look healthy. But a whole bag of anything isn't really healthy. But I digress. . .
Last week when I was trying to find a new food, I bought some garbanzo beans, also known as chickpeas, which is the main ingredient in hummus. Does anyone know why the same food has 2 different names? Enlighten me, please. Anyway, I decided I would make my own hummus. And it was pretty easy. The only other thing I really needed was Tahini sauce, which is made from sesame seeds (I think).
So, you just put a can of chickpeas in your food processor with some garlic, some Tahini sauce, lemon juice, salt, and then whatever you want to add flavoring (pine nuts, red pepper, basil, etc.).
Unless you are like me and don't own a food processor. In that case, use your blender.
In the end, it turned out to be delicious, and we didn't even have the amazing pretzels! We ate it all the way to Chicago to pick my brother up from his trip to Haiti.
So, anybody have some new food ideas for me to try next week?
Thursday, April 12, 2012
The weight of the world
Some days I leave Bridges laughing at the crazy fun we had. (Oh my, if I only had a video camera with me. . .) Some days I leave Bridges completely frustrated because of a situation. (How many times can a student "forget" their homework?) But today I left Bridges, sat in my car, and cried.
I cried for my students.
They are carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders, and many have nobody to help them.
This week at Bridges the theme was "your story". They've been giving students a chance to tell their story to everyone. Today one brave girl started. She told her story, which is filled with the heartaches of drug abuse, foster care, and poverty. But through it all she has continued to press on. She spoke about the hope that God gives her that she can keep pressing on no matter what.
I was so proud of her courage to speak and share. Whew. That was tough. Now, onto free time, right?
Nope.
Another student shared. And then another. One by one students came up and vocalized their struggles. These students who are between 12 and 15 spoke of things that nobody should experience, let alone as a child.
Abuse from parents
Abandonment
Drug Addiction
Incarceration of family members
Divorce
Dad running off
Being molested
Being bullied
One boy spoke of how he had never met his dad. "I don't know what is so wrong with me that he doesn't even want to know me."
The stories started to overwhelm me. Honestly, I just wanted to walk out of the room and cry. But for some reason, I kept thinking of my friend Ginny, who is a missionary in Haiti. When she took me to a Tent City in Jacmel, she said, "Don't cry in front of them. They don't want your pity. They want your help."
And that's what Bridges is all about. It's not about pity. It's about help.
Most of the students who shared their stories were missing a true family. Someone who misses them when they are not around, who cheers them on, laughs with them, pushes them to do their best. And they have found some of that in Bridges.
So, while it's nice I get to help them with homework, and it's fun to play games with them, the reason I'm there is to show them that they are not alone. Someone cares.
I cried for my students.
They are carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders, and many have nobody to help them.
This week at Bridges the theme was "your story". They've been giving students a chance to tell their story to everyone. Today one brave girl started. She told her story, which is filled with the heartaches of drug abuse, foster care, and poverty. But through it all she has continued to press on. She spoke about the hope that God gives her that she can keep pressing on no matter what.
I was so proud of her courage to speak and share. Whew. That was tough. Now, onto free time, right?
Nope.
Another student shared. And then another. One by one students came up and vocalized their struggles. These students who are between 12 and 15 spoke of things that nobody should experience, let alone as a child.
Abuse from parents
Abandonment
Drug Addiction
Incarceration of family members
Divorce
Dad running off
Being molested
Being bullied
One boy spoke of how he had never met his dad. "I don't know what is so wrong with me that he doesn't even want to know me."
The stories started to overwhelm me. Honestly, I just wanted to walk out of the room and cry. But for some reason, I kept thinking of my friend Ginny, who is a missionary in Haiti. When she took me to a Tent City in Jacmel, she said, "Don't cry in front of them. They don't want your pity. They want your help."
And that's what Bridges is all about. It's not about pity. It's about help.
Most of the students who shared their stories were missing a true family. Someone who misses them when they are not around, who cheers them on, laughs with them, pushes them to do their best. And they have found some of that in Bridges.
So, while it's nice I get to help them with homework, and it's fun to play games with them, the reason I'm there is to show them that they are not alone. Someone cares.
Thursday Thank You's
I am thankful for. . .
511. spring, and everything it brings.
512. celebrating Easter with my family.
513. antibiotics. I had a small infection that made my face swell up last week (not a pretty sight). Anyway, once I got some antibiotics I was fine. But the whole time, I kept thinking about places where people don't have access to antibiotics. Wow.
514. a husband who prays with me and for me.
515. listening to my kids sing David Crowder in the car.
516. Goodwill bargains.
517. good books that really speak to me and help me to feel like I'm not the only one feeling the way I do.
518. last Friday: took the fastest trip to Chicago and back ever. Stopped for gas on the way, picked my brother up at the airport, and stopped for a drink on the way back. 7 hours later we were back home.
519. getting to be a part of things much bigger than myself.
520. lessons learned every day. It's never too old to stop learning.
What are you thankful for?
511. spring, and everything it brings.
512. celebrating Easter with my family.
513. antibiotics. I had a small infection that made my face swell up last week (not a pretty sight). Anyway, once I got some antibiotics I was fine. But the whole time, I kept thinking about places where people don't have access to antibiotics. Wow.
514. a husband who prays with me and for me.
515. listening to my kids sing David Crowder in the car.
516. Goodwill bargains.
517. good books that really speak to me and help me to feel like I'm not the only one feeling the way I do.
518. last Friday: took the fastest trip to Chicago and back ever. Stopped for gas on the way, picked my brother up at the airport, and stopped for a drink on the way back. 7 hours later we were back home.
519. getting to be a part of things much bigger than myself.
520. lessons learned every day. It's never too old to stop learning.
What are you thankful for?
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
What works for me: Grocery Shopping
I've been writing about my new food items this year, and I wanted to throw a little something out there about how I shop at the grocery store. Now, I need to make a disclaimer that by no means am I a total expert at this. This post is not about how to leave the store with $500 of groceries and pay $6. I don't really use coupons. What I will share is how we grocery shop so that we don't eat out very much and try to eat healthy. (Try is the operative word there).
#1: Make a menu. I usually do my grocery shopping on Friday. So, Thursday night I sit down and make a menu. I have a notebook where I keep the menus. If I get stuck with what to plan, I look back at what we have eaten over the last few weeks. I also have my cookbooks and recipes handy, too. If I know ahead of time that we are going to be doing something on a given night, I can plan accordingly. Now, this menu doesn't always get followed, but by doing this, I know that we will have everything we need for the meals listed. I usually plan for one night of leftovers, but that doesn't always happen, as we eat leftovers a lot for lunch.
Notice the arrows. As you can see, plans change a lot around here.
#2: Make a categorized grocery list. I go to the same grocery store almost every week. I know where I start (dairy) and where I finish (fruit). So, I write my list in this order. I also check the pantry, freezer, and fridge to see what I already have before I buy it again. When I don't, I end up with 3 containers of sour cream in my fridge (like I do right now).
#3: Buy your meat first. I try to get my meat from a local business. If I find that a specific meat is on sale that week, I might change the menu plan before I hit the big grocery store. Plus, you can always freeze meat. For example, I really like salmon, but if it's not on sale, I won't buy it, so the menu might have to change.
#4: Stick to the list, for the most part. I usually walk away with a few items that weren't on the list, but in general, if it's not on the list, we aren't going to get it. The only exceptions I make are sale items that I KNOW we we use, or a good deal on fruit/veggies.
#5: Shop the outside. Most of us know this by now, but the outer edge of the grocery store is where most of the shopping should take place. The aisles are filled with processed foods. We are not all-organic or non-processed food only shoppers by any means, but if I don't have anything on the list for a specific aisle, I just don't walk down it. I know that if I walk down the chip aisle, inevitably some snack is going to catch my eye, and then I will eat it. I will confess that I have zero will power. I love snack foods, so if they are in the house, I eat them. If they aren't in the house, I don't have a choice.
So, there are my tips. What are yours? Please share!
#1: Make a menu. I usually do my grocery shopping on Friday. So, Thursday night I sit down and make a menu. I have a notebook where I keep the menus. If I get stuck with what to plan, I look back at what we have eaten over the last few weeks. I also have my cookbooks and recipes handy, too. If I know ahead of time that we are going to be doing something on a given night, I can plan accordingly. Now, this menu doesn't always get followed, but by doing this, I know that we will have everything we need for the meals listed. I usually plan for one night of leftovers, but that doesn't always happen, as we eat leftovers a lot for lunch.
Notice the arrows. As you can see, plans change a lot around here.
#2: Make a categorized grocery list. I go to the same grocery store almost every week. I know where I start (dairy) and where I finish (fruit). So, I write my list in this order. I also check the pantry, freezer, and fridge to see what I already have before I buy it again. When I don't, I end up with 3 containers of sour cream in my fridge (like I do right now).
#3: Buy your meat first. I try to get my meat from a local business. If I find that a specific meat is on sale that week, I might change the menu plan before I hit the big grocery store. Plus, you can always freeze meat. For example, I really like salmon, but if it's not on sale, I won't buy it, so the menu might have to change.
#4: Stick to the list, for the most part. I usually walk away with a few items that weren't on the list, but in general, if it's not on the list, we aren't going to get it. The only exceptions I make are sale items that I KNOW we we use, or a good deal on fruit/veggies.
#5: Shop the outside. Most of us know this by now, but the outer edge of the grocery store is where most of the shopping should take place. The aisles are filled with processed foods. We are not all-organic or non-processed food only shoppers by any means, but if I don't have anything on the list for a specific aisle, I just don't walk down it. I know that if I walk down the chip aisle, inevitably some snack is going to catch my eye, and then I will eat it. I will confess that I have zero will power. I love snack foods, so if they are in the house, I eat them. If they aren't in the house, I don't have a choice.
So, there are my tips. What are yours? Please share!
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
When it rains (pictures of my kids), it pours
Are you tired of seeing these adorable faces?
Me neither.
Just wanted to share some photos from Easter. On the weekend of Palm Sunday we went to the Deans. We had a great time with family, despite the Buckeyes losing and me having some weird face infection that involved going to the urgent care clinic for antibiotics.
Candy + Family = Best. Weekend. Ever.
And of course there was the annual egg hunt. Even though my kids were the only ones who took part (some couldn't make it, some were too old), it was still a race to the finish.
The smiles are a little easier to come by with a bag full of candy in your arms.
This is a picture on Easter Sunday at our house. Noel and Elise are wearing their Easter gifts: a dress and a Mario shirt. They also got new toothbrushes (Wow. When I type it, I sound like the most un-fun mom ever, but that is really what they wanted--light up toothbrushes).
We had a nice, lazy afternoon, in which there was plenty of Mario time.
Two peas in a pod. Which one is having more fun???
My favorite part of the whole Easter season was reading through the stories of the Passion Week with the kids. The night we read about Jesus' death, the kids were sad. And I tried to leave it like that for the night, so that the next day they could kind of experience the joy of the resurrection. It is such an amazing experience to see life through the eyes of a child. The wonder. The newness. The excitement. I don't want them to ever lose it.
Okay, back to my normal no-pictured blog posts.
Sunday, April 08, 2012
Some proof that I actually DO take pictures
I'd like to share a few pictures from our vacation to Columbus. We stayed in a hotel that had an indoor waterpark. It was a really fun place, and Noel had the time of his life. Elise kind of likes the water, but Noel could go all day and never stop. It was just fun being together and making memories.
Noel hates being sprayed in the face. But he soon realized that almost every slide involved getting sprayed at one point or another, and that he needed to just suck it up and enjoy the ride. Once he did, he was good to go!
Elise having a good time drowning Ariel.
Playing in the fountains
Basketball
More slides
Ready to take on the bigger slides! (Noel is, at least)
Climbing the rope ladder
In keeping with my terrible photography skills, this is a picture of the biggest slide Noel went down, but it is, in fact, not Noel coming down. I tried a bunch of times, but couldn't snap him at the right time. So just pretend he is coming out. I was really proud of him for trying the slide, and he ended up loving it. If you know Noel, he is not always gung ho about doing new stuff. But he pushed himself, and was very proud of it.
More pictures to come from the Dean's house and Easter Sunday!
Friday, April 06, 2012
On Sunday a King
In the midst of spring break, easter egg dying, mowing lawns, taking walks, and enjoying life, may I never forget who gave me this life and why I live.
Thursday, April 05, 2012
Kale, yeah!
Again, I apologize for the terrible pun. This is what happens when you live with my husband for 7 years. He is the king of puns, but he never promises they will be good.
I just wanted to share that while I haven't been very diligent about posting all of my cooking adventures with new foods this year, we are still trying a new food every week. In order to spare you the pointless details, I will run through some of the most recent very quickly:
*Eggplant. Now, technically, I have eaten eggplant many times before, and I think I cooked one. Once. Like 12 years ago. So I still counted it as new. I made eggplant parmesan (of course). It was really good. Really.
*Cous Cous. Okay, for the record, I have not made cous cous yet. I have merely purchased it, and it is sitting on my pantry shelf. I can't figure out what it goes with. Anyone? Anyone?
*Kale. Today we made kale chips. If you want the recipe, you can google "kale chips" and you'll get about 50 different recipes. I was pleasantly surprised with how good they were. Next time I will definitely dry them a little more before I put them in the oven. And I put way too much salt on them (and I'm kind of a salt monkey).
*Tomatillos. I found a recipe for salsa verde that I really wanted to try, and it called for tomatillos,so I went for it. The secret is to buy canned tomatillos. They are already peeled and cored, so all you have to do is chop them up. This was delicious salsa. I even took a picture of the ingredients:
Of course, I completely forgot to take a picture of the finished product. Baby steps, right? I think what else made this salsa so good was the fact that the onion and jalapeno pepper were grilled before they went into the salsa. It added a smoky taste. Mmmmm
Sidenote: David and I were just talking about how hardly anybody ate salsa when we were growing up. Now we are making all different kinds. Has there been some sort of sociological study about the effect of the Food Network on our culture?
So, that's what I've been up to on the cooking front. Now you can all breathe a big sigh of relief and go back to your usual routine. Any suggestions for more new foods for me?
I just wanted to share that while I haven't been very diligent about posting all of my cooking adventures with new foods this year, we are still trying a new food every week. In order to spare you the pointless details, I will run through some of the most recent very quickly:
*Eggplant. Now, technically, I have eaten eggplant many times before, and I think I cooked one. Once. Like 12 years ago. So I still counted it as new. I made eggplant parmesan (of course). It was really good. Really.
*Cous Cous. Okay, for the record, I have not made cous cous yet. I have merely purchased it, and it is sitting on my pantry shelf. I can't figure out what it goes with. Anyone? Anyone?
*Kale. Today we made kale chips. If you want the recipe, you can google "kale chips" and you'll get about 50 different recipes. I was pleasantly surprised with how good they were. Next time I will definitely dry them a little more before I put them in the oven. And I put way too much salt on them (and I'm kind of a salt monkey).
*Tomatillos. I found a recipe for salsa verde that I really wanted to try, and it called for tomatillos,so I went for it. The secret is to buy canned tomatillos. They are already peeled and cored, so all you have to do is chop them up. This was delicious salsa. I even took a picture of the ingredients:
Of course, I completely forgot to take a picture of the finished product. Baby steps, right? I think what else made this salsa so good was the fact that the onion and jalapeno pepper were grilled before they went into the salsa. It added a smoky taste. Mmmmm
Sidenote: David and I were just talking about how hardly anybody ate salsa when we were growing up. Now we are making all different kinds. Has there been some sort of sociological study about the effect of the Food Network on our culture?
So, that's what I've been up to on the cooking front. Now you can all breathe a big sigh of relief and go back to your usual routine. Any suggestions for more new foods for me?
Wednesday, April 04, 2012
"I'm not trying to ignore you. . ."
Okay, I really should be writing all kinds of important things on this blog, because I feel like there are important things to be said. There are lots of ideas in my mind that I would like to hash out in words. I want to share and make people realize they are not the only ones who are going through something.
But not today.
Today I just want to share a funny story. A few months back I wrote a blog post about how there isn't any discretion any more in retail shopping. The cashier at Walmart will full on tell me she is having a rotten day, or that she has a contagious virus, or that my kids need a nap.
This idea took on a whole new meaning a few weeks ago.
If you didn't know, we are in the process of getting our house ready to put on the market. Yes, I think we've been talking about this for approximately 30 years (slight exaggeration), but this time WE MEAN IT! (maybe). Anyway, we were trying to find a small storage unit for a few pieces of furniture and our elliptical machine.
Enter Mrs. Pack Rat.
I call her that because the name of the storage facility is Pack Rat Storage. There is even a big cartoon picture of a rat on the side of the building, I kid you not.
We are all class in these parts.
So, David goes in to see if they have any of the smallest units available. First of all, he is greeted by a tiny dog who is jumping all over the place and barking up a storm. The secretary/owner/attendant/entertainment is at her desk, "working" on the computer. She continues to stare at the screen, but asks David if he needs help. As he is asking her questions about the storage units they offer, she never takes her eyes off the screen. Naturally, David leans over to see what she is working so hard on.
And this, my friends, is when the wheels fall off.
She says to David, "Oh, I'm not trying to ignore you or anything, but I've got this online game of Euchre I'm playing. . ."
She is ignoring a customer to play online card games. And full-well admits to it. And never even considers stopping.
Needless to say, we are looking elsewhere.
So, here is your lesson for today: When you work at Pack Rat Storage, maybe, just maybe, you should think about the word "work" before you log on to your card club.
But not today.
Today I just want to share a funny story. A few months back I wrote a blog post about how there isn't any discretion any more in retail shopping. The cashier at Walmart will full on tell me she is having a rotten day, or that she has a contagious virus, or that my kids need a nap.
This idea took on a whole new meaning a few weeks ago.
If you didn't know, we are in the process of getting our house ready to put on the market. Yes, I think we've been talking about this for approximately 30 years (slight exaggeration), but this time WE MEAN IT! (maybe). Anyway, we were trying to find a small storage unit for a few pieces of furniture and our elliptical machine.
Enter Mrs. Pack Rat.
I call her that because the name of the storage facility is Pack Rat Storage. There is even a big cartoon picture of a rat on the side of the building, I kid you not.
We are all class in these parts.
So, David goes in to see if they have any of the smallest units available. First of all, he is greeted by a tiny dog who is jumping all over the place and barking up a storm. The secretary/owner/attendant/entertainment is at her desk, "working" on the computer. She continues to stare at the screen, but asks David if he needs help. As he is asking her questions about the storage units they offer, she never takes her eyes off the screen. Naturally, David leans over to see what she is working so hard on.
And this, my friends, is when the wheels fall off.
She says to David, "Oh, I'm not trying to ignore you or anything, but I've got this online game of Euchre I'm playing. . ."
She is ignoring a customer to play online card games. And full-well admits to it. And never even considers stopping.
Needless to say, we are looking elsewhere.
So, here is your lesson for today: When you work at Pack Rat Storage, maybe, just maybe, you should think about the word "work" before you log on to your card club.
Tuesday, April 03, 2012
A Smile that Lights up the World
Last week we packed up our stuff and went on a mini-vacation. We went to an indoor water park and visited David's sister in Ohio. And I have lots of pictures of that I'm going to share. But not today. Today I want you to see Nadine. Her smile can light up the world.
I met Nadine almost 2 years ago in Peredo, Haiti. She is a young girl (14 now) who has multiple cysts in her abdomen. Because of this, she has been very excluded in her tiny village. She doesn't go to school. Her social contact is very limited. People didn't know what was wrong with her. But my friend Ginny knew God had a plan for her. With a lot of paperwork, footwork, and Godwork, Nadine is here in Columbus getting ready for the medical treatments she needs to have her cysts removed.
I'll be very honest and say I was nervous to see Nadine again. I don't know very much Creole, so I didn't know how we would communicate. But more pressing on my mind were my kids. We have been praying for Nadine every night for over 6 months. They've seen pictures of her, but how would they react to a girl with a huge belly?
In the end, I had nothing to worry about. My kids acted just like my kids. Noel, played with Joe (the host family's son) on his Ipad, and Elise make fast friends with Nadine. They both love Dora and stickers, and that was enough.
It was so wonderful to see Nadine in such a warm, loving environment, especially after all of the heartache and hurt she has faced. The people of Haiti are more resilient than you can imagine; that is one of the qualities about them that I love. Her host parents, Sheree and Dave, are wonderful people. I am hoping we can go and visit again, as Nadine will be there for several months.
As we were leaving, David asked me what I thought Nadine's future looked like. I could easily travel down the road of what-if's: What if her cysts come back? What if she can't function on her own? What if she is still excluded? And then I looked at all of the ways God has worked in this young woman's life already, and I have to believe that she is exactly where she is for a reason. We all are. We can sit and worry about tomorrow (which is very tempting), or we can be thankful for each day we are given and honor God with our lives.
Please continue to pray for Nadine, as well as the Tata family whom she is living with. It is hard work taking care of her, and she has a long road ahead. If you are interested in sending her a card or picture, please let me know, and I'll get the address for you.
Trying to get a "foto". Nadine loves swinging!
I think she would have let me push her all day.
Oh, and she was singing the Dora theme song while I was pushing her!
Another David for Nadine to love!
She proceeded to tackle him right after this picture.
Mama Sheree
Do you think she's tired of getting her picture taken yet?!
Yes, Noel was there. He was in Angry Bird heaven with Joe.
Pretty sure this is the best picture of the day. I love the look on Elise's face, as Nadine is looking at the coloring book she picked out for her.
What girl doesn't love stickers?
Monday, March 26, 2012
It's hard to blog when your computer is in a box.
We got new carpet in the living room last week. This meant that we cleaned out pretty much everything from the living room. We even threw our old desk away. So, needless to say the computer was inaccessible most of last week. I wish I had the computer, because a lot of thoughts ran through my head that I wanted to write about. Of course now they are all forgotten.
I wanted to write about how David had a hilarious encounter with a lady who runs a storage facility here in town. She wouldn't stop playing online euchre to help him, but she did say, "God bless ya!" on his way out.
I wanted to write about my new food, the tomatillo. I made salsa verde, and it was really good. mmmmm. . .
I wanted to write about how we are going on a mini-vacation this week, and how I'm so excited to get away for a few days.
But most importantly, I wanted to write about Nadine. Unless you have never read my blog before, you know Nadine. Well, after many months and lots of work from many people, Nadine is in Columbus, Ohio getting ready for her surgery. I am so thankful that this has worked out. It has been such an amazing journey to walk through with the kids. To hear my kids pray for Nadine every night and see those prayers answered over time has been life-changing. And now we get to go see her this week. I am nervous how it's all going to turn out, with the language barrier and everything else that makes us different. But the Holy Spirit keeps reminding me that this is what we were meant to do. Just this morning I read the passage in the Bible where Jesus says that whatever we do for the least of these we do for Him. I'm afraid I don't live this out on a daily basis, but my prayer is that God will continue to change me into the person He wants me to be, that I will hold onto the stuff of this world less and less, and hold onto Him more and more.
And that beats any old tomatillo.
I wanted to write about how David had a hilarious encounter with a lady who runs a storage facility here in town. She wouldn't stop playing online euchre to help him, but she did say, "God bless ya!" on his way out.
I wanted to write about my new food, the tomatillo. I made salsa verde, and it was really good. mmmmm. . .
I wanted to write about how we are going on a mini-vacation this week, and how I'm so excited to get away for a few days.
But most importantly, I wanted to write about Nadine. Unless you have never read my blog before, you know Nadine. Well, after many months and lots of work from many people, Nadine is in Columbus, Ohio getting ready for her surgery. I am so thankful that this has worked out. It has been such an amazing journey to walk through with the kids. To hear my kids pray for Nadine every night and see those prayers answered over time has been life-changing. And now we get to go see her this week. I am nervous how it's all going to turn out, with the language barrier and everything else that makes us different. But the Holy Spirit keeps reminding me that this is what we were meant to do. Just this morning I read the passage in the Bible where Jesus says that whatever we do for the least of these we do for Him. I'm afraid I don't live this out on a daily basis, but my prayer is that God will continue to change me into the person He wants me to be, that I will hold onto the stuff of this world less and less, and hold onto Him more and more.
And that beats any old tomatillo.
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Weekend Away
This past weekend I had the chance to do something I rarely get to do. No, I'm not talking about hanging out with Michelle Duggar (who I DID see this weekend, more on that later) or watch multiple hours of college basketball (which I DID do when I got home). I'm talking about going away for the weekend without my kids or husband.
My friend Alison and I went to the Hearts at Home conference in Normal, Illinois. Now, I am not one to usually attend these kinds of things (and neither is Alison). Frankly, we are more at home with "boy" things (see earlier paragraph about watching hours of college basketball), but this conference was calling our names because:
A)I went to college in Normal.
B) Alison grew up in Normal.
C)Alison's friend was one of the workshop speakers and had asked her to come.
D)Hey, let's be honest, it's a trip away for 2 days.
So, Friday afternoon we loaded up and drove to the Land of Lincoln. Our first destination was a trip down memory lane, where we saw my old apartment, Alison's childhood home and elementary school, and an assortment of nostalgic places for the both of us. The weather was beautiful, so we spent the afternoon driving around and looking at how some things in Bloomington-Normal were exactly the same and some were completely different.
Then we went to get our registration stuff for Hearts at Home, which didn't start for us until Saturday morning. Oh, my, were there a lot of women! We quickly got through the enormous lines, hid our complimentary-yet-hideous tote bags, and headed over to Avanti's, a town favorite restaurant.
Now, let me just stop here for a second and say that if you try Avanti's for the the first time and you aren't impressed, it's okay. It's nothing special. What we love about it is a)cheap prices b)lots of memories and c)the BREAD. Oh, heavens, the bread is sooooo good!
But we weren't dining alone at Avanti's. Nope. As it turns out, my amazing friends Matt and Jenni Collins (who live in Fort Worth) were visiting Matt's parents (who live in Lincoln) for Spring Break. So not only did I get to eat at Avanti's, but I got to eat it and talk with three of my greatest friends in the whole entire world. AND I DIDN'T HAVE TO TAKE CARE OF MY CHILDREN AT A RESTAURANT! (yes, that was in all caps for a reason).
After a wonderful supper (and a trip to the take-out window where Alison purchased no less than 10 loaves of Avanti's bread--for her family) we drove to Lincoln for the night. Instead of staying at a hotel, we opted to shell out 15 big ones and stay in the dorm at Lincoln Christian University. The bonus was that we got to see Matt and Jenni's kiddos and Matt's parents.
Saturday was the conference. I won't go into all of the details (this post is already long enough), but it was good. The speakers were from all different backgrounds, and the topics were all very relevant. Alison's friend, Marianne, spoke about how we can teach our children to be more grateful, and it was really, really good. She talked about how our society has taught our kids that stuff is what matters, not people. I left really inspired to be more conscious of what messages I am giving my children.
We did hear Jim-Bob (I can't believe I just typed "Jim-Bob" in my blog) and Michelle Duggar give their story. They are nice people, and I think they do really love their kids and God. I'll leave it at that.
Some other highlights of the day included:
*sneaking off during lunch to see a St. Patrick's Day Parade
*hanging out on my old campus
*getting to talk to Marianne afterward
And on the way home, I was reminded why Alison is just about the only person I would go to a ladies' conference with. Right before we left, we went to the bathroom, and there was a little counter with things like lotion, mints, kleenex, etc. Next to it was a little paper sign that said "Take what you need for the MOMent." (Oh, don't you just love the terrible pun?) So, about halfway home, I say, "You know, I wish I had stolen that sign in the bathroom." To which Alison answers (while pulling it out of her bag) "And you know I did."
Love it. Absolutely love it.
Hope your weekend wanderings were as wonderful as mine.
My friend Alison and I went to the Hearts at Home conference in Normal, Illinois. Now, I am not one to usually attend these kinds of things (and neither is Alison). Frankly, we are more at home with "boy" things (see earlier paragraph about watching hours of college basketball), but this conference was calling our names because:
A)I went to college in Normal.
B) Alison grew up in Normal.
C)Alison's friend was one of the workshop speakers and had asked her to come.
D)Hey, let's be honest, it's a trip away for 2 days.
So, Friday afternoon we loaded up and drove to the Land of Lincoln. Our first destination was a trip down memory lane, where we saw my old apartment, Alison's childhood home and elementary school, and an assortment of nostalgic places for the both of us. The weather was beautiful, so we spent the afternoon driving around and looking at how some things in Bloomington-Normal were exactly the same and some were completely different.
Then we went to get our registration stuff for Hearts at Home, which didn't start for us until Saturday morning. Oh, my, were there a lot of women! We quickly got through the enormous lines, hid our complimentary-yet-hideous tote bags, and headed over to Avanti's, a town favorite restaurant.
Now, let me just stop here for a second and say that if you try Avanti's for the the first time and you aren't impressed, it's okay. It's nothing special. What we love about it is a)cheap prices b)lots of memories and c)the BREAD. Oh, heavens, the bread is sooooo good!
But we weren't dining alone at Avanti's. Nope. As it turns out, my amazing friends Matt and Jenni Collins (who live in Fort Worth) were visiting Matt's parents (who live in Lincoln) for Spring Break. So not only did I get to eat at Avanti's, but I got to eat it and talk with three of my greatest friends in the whole entire world. AND I DIDN'T HAVE TO TAKE CARE OF MY CHILDREN AT A RESTAURANT! (yes, that was in all caps for a reason).
After a wonderful supper (and a trip to the take-out window where Alison purchased no less than 10 loaves of Avanti's bread--for her family) we drove to Lincoln for the night. Instead of staying at a hotel, we opted to shell out 15 big ones and stay in the dorm at Lincoln Christian University. The bonus was that we got to see Matt and Jenni's kiddos and Matt's parents.
Saturday was the conference. I won't go into all of the details (this post is already long enough), but it was good. The speakers were from all different backgrounds, and the topics were all very relevant. Alison's friend, Marianne, spoke about how we can teach our children to be more grateful, and it was really, really good. She talked about how our society has taught our kids that stuff is what matters, not people. I left really inspired to be more conscious of what messages I am giving my children.
We did hear Jim-Bob (I can't believe I just typed "Jim-Bob" in my blog) and Michelle Duggar give their story. They are nice people, and I think they do really love their kids and God. I'll leave it at that.
Some other highlights of the day included:
*sneaking off during lunch to see a St. Patrick's Day Parade
*hanging out on my old campus
*getting to talk to Marianne afterward
And on the way home, I was reminded why Alison is just about the only person I would go to a ladies' conference with. Right before we left, we went to the bathroom, and there was a little counter with things like lotion, mints, kleenex, etc. Next to it was a little paper sign that said "Take what you need for the MOMent." (Oh, don't you just love the terrible pun?) So, about halfway home, I say, "You know, I wish I had stolen that sign in the bathroom." To which Alison answers (while pulling it out of her bag) "And you know I did."
Love it. Absolutely love it.
Hope your weekend wanderings were as wonderful as mine.
Friday, March 16, 2012
It's a rollercoaster
I love the TV show Parenthood. It's one of my favorite shows on right now. Actually, I'm really bummed that the season is over. But a comment on a friend's blog made me think about the original movie Parenthood, with Steve Martin and a slew of other people. This is one of the best scenes in the whole movie:
Sometimes I forget that my kids are just that: kids. I want them to act exactly how they are supposed to, and I get to stressed out when things don't go exactly as planned, but that's the excitement of life. I think back to all of the craziness that has happened because of my children, and I wouldn't miss it for the world. Life really IS like an amusement park. We can choose to do something that scares us--take a step of faith in our career, our work, our service, our family--or stand on the side and watch. Will it always be wonderful? Nope. But was it worth it? You bet.
P.S. This clip cut out a few seconds too soon, because right after this, Gil (Steve Martin) says, "Yeah, well if she's so smart, how come she's sitting in the neighbor's car?" Love it!
Get out there and enjoy the ride today!
Thursday, March 15, 2012
Thursday Thank You's
Today I am thankful for. ..
501. my upcoming trip to Illinois with Alison. Soooo excited!
502. new babies (not mine!)
503. NADINE IS COMING TO THE STATES ON MONDAY!!!!!
504. getting to take the kids outside every day this week.
505. quality time with each child one-on-one.
506. new carpet coming next week.
507. and in honor of the new carpet: a new vacuum! My 11 year-old, $60 vacuum just isn't cutting it anymore. Go figure.
508. My Wonder Woman coffee mug. How can I drink from it and not smile?
509. Reading Catching Fire. Let the late nights commence.
510. March Madness, Baby!
What are you thankful for?
501. my upcoming trip to Illinois with Alison. Soooo excited!
502. new babies (not mine!)
503. NADINE IS COMING TO THE STATES ON MONDAY!!!!!
504. getting to take the kids outside every day this week.
505. quality time with each child one-on-one.
506. new carpet coming next week.
507. and in honor of the new carpet: a new vacuum! My 11 year-old, $60 vacuum just isn't cutting it anymore. Go figure.
508. My Wonder Woman coffee mug. How can I drink from it and not smile?
509. Reading Catching Fire. Let the late nights commence.
510. March Madness, Baby!
What are you thankful for?
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Back on Track
Okay, so last week's new food was a total fail. I bought jicama, and had a couple of different ideas what to do with it. And then I waited too long and the jicama tasted funky, so I didn't make anything with it. But I had already bought Napa cabbage to make a jicama slaw with, so I already had this week's new food: Napa Cabbage!
I ended up making a slaw with it, and it is super yummy. It reminds me of the Oriental Salad everyone makes with broken up Ramen noodles and sesame seeds. It is basically chopped up cabbage, green onions (I used a small yellow onion), and cilantro. For the record, I love anything with cilantro. Cilantro for me is like bacon: it makes everything better. The dressing is vegetable oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar. Then you top it off with toasted slivered almonds. I had cashews, and they worked just the same.
So, it was all good in the end, and although I missed a week, and some jicama, I found a new side dish that is worth repeating.
So, it was all good in the end, and although I missed a week, and some jicama, I found a new side dish that is worth repeating.
Monday, March 12, 2012
A Stack of Cards
Next to my desk sits a box full of cards. Regular cards from a craft store. But with a little bit of teamwork last night, those cards might just mean something.
You see, all of the youth group girls (and sponsors) got together and wrote encouragement notes yesterday. We wrote them to girls we had never met, but are our sisters in Christ.
These girls are single mothers in Kenya, Africa. They are living in a maternity home called Mercy House. If you want to know more about Mercy House, check out this website.
These single moms are here because there is basically nowhere else to turn. Most of them have little support elsewhere. I cannot imagine how scary it is for them. But while these girls are at Mercy House they are fed, protected, taught, and encouraged.
One way they can be encouraged is through us! So we wrote them notes filled with Bible verses, words of encouragement, pictures of flowers, reminders of how beautiful they are. A tangible way for girls in Indiana and girls in Africa to connect.
And when I head out to the post office to mail these on, my hear will be full once again, knowing how awesome it is when we jump on board with what God is doing.
You see, all of the youth group girls (and sponsors) got together and wrote encouragement notes yesterday. We wrote them to girls we had never met, but are our sisters in Christ.
These girls are single mothers in Kenya, Africa. They are living in a maternity home called Mercy House. If you want to know more about Mercy House, check out this website.
These single moms are here because there is basically nowhere else to turn. Most of them have little support elsewhere. I cannot imagine how scary it is for them. But while these girls are at Mercy House they are fed, protected, taught, and encouraged.
One way they can be encouraged is through us! So we wrote them notes filled with Bible verses, words of encouragement, pictures of flowers, reminders of how beautiful they are. A tangible way for girls in Indiana and girls in Africa to connect.
And when I head out to the post office to mail these on, my hear will be full once again, knowing how awesome it is when we jump on board with what God is doing.
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Full heart
My heart is full today.
The sun is shining. I'm sitting here watching the beginnings of March Madness begin while my husband and son are bonding over a video game on the Kindle. They are two peas in a pod if ever there were.
We ate at a restaurant, and the kids were good!
We are taking steps towards selling our house. We went and looked at one today that was very promising.
My online class is over!!! Yee-haw!!!!
This coming weekend I am going to a women's conference with my friend Alison. Weekend away + Alison = Good times.
Life can get hectic and busy if we let it. The days can slip by without any meaning. But for right now, for this moment, I am thankful and aware that life is so very good. We have been given so much.
What are you thankful for?
The sun is shining. I'm sitting here watching the beginnings of March Madness begin while my husband and son are bonding over a video game on the Kindle. They are two peas in a pod if ever there were.
We ate at a restaurant, and the kids were good!
We are taking steps towards selling our house. We went and looked at one today that was very promising.
My online class is over!!! Yee-haw!!!!
This coming weekend I am going to a women's conference with my friend Alison. Weekend away + Alison = Good times.
Life can get hectic and busy if we let it. The days can slip by without any meaning. But for right now, for this moment, I am thankful and aware that life is so very good. We have been given so much.
What are you thankful for?
Wednesday, March 07, 2012
No excuse for my absense
I wish I had an excuse for not writing for so many days. I HAVE been busy. But the truth is that my mind is full of different posts, and I don't know where to start.
Should I write about my weekend getaway to Chicago with David? Soooooo much fun!!
Or should I write about going to a purity ring ceremony with my Bridges girls and how much it moved me?
Or should I write about my kids and their antics while Grandma Linda and Grandpa Ed came to visit?
How about my new food--jicama--what in the world am I going to do with jicama?
Better yet, I can write about how much time I am going to have in a couple of days when my online class is over!!
No, wait! I can write about how we are meeting with a realtor to put our house up for sale.
See? Too many choices to even pick one. So all that's left is this messy post with too many points, not enough details, and zero pictures!! Ugh. Depressing.
I think I'll go have a soda. . .oh, wait. . .that's another post: how I gave up soda for Lent. . .
Should I write about my weekend getaway to Chicago with David? Soooooo much fun!!
Or should I write about going to a purity ring ceremony with my Bridges girls and how much it moved me?
Or should I write about my kids and their antics while Grandma Linda and Grandpa Ed came to visit?
How about my new food--jicama--what in the world am I going to do with jicama?
Better yet, I can write about how much time I am going to have in a couple of days when my online class is over!!
No, wait! I can write about how we are meeting with a realtor to put our house up for sale.
See? Too many choices to even pick one. So all that's left is this messy post with too many points, not enough details, and zero pictures!! Ugh. Depressing.
I think I'll go have a soda. . .oh, wait. . .that's another post: how I gave up soda for Lent. . .
Thursday, March 01, 2012
This I Believe
I'm almost done!!!! I have just a few days left of my class to keep my teacher certification! Can I get a big Yee-Haw?!!!
The class has been about teaching multi-culturally, and although I am ready to be done, I have learned quite a bit. My final assignment was to write a belief statement about my values towards multicultural education. I wanted to share what I came up with.
The class has been about teaching multi-culturally, and although I am ready to be done, I have learned quite a bit. My final assignment was to write a belief statement about my values towards multicultural education. I wanted to share what I came up with.
"This I Believe"
We are all so different, and so much the same.
This I believe.
We all have trials, some are much harder than others, but nobody goes through this life without hardship. Nobody. If you see someone and think their life is easy, you aren’t seeing the whole picture.
People are hurting.
Physically, emotionally, spiritually, relationally, mentally hurting.
But the beauty is that the hard times, the tough times, are the ones that shape each of us into something beautiful. A unique creation.
“You make beautiful things out of us. . .” Michael Gungor, “Beautiful Things”
One hobby I really enjoy is mosaic work. You take broken glass or pottery and glue it onto something to make a new cover, like a vase or a picture frame or a table. Our lives are like mosaics. The parts that are broken can end up turning into beauty. An old coffee cup transformed into a priceless piece of art.
We all want to be heard. Whether you are living in a hut in Kenya, a high rise apartment in Japan, or a farm in Oklahoma, you want your voice to matter.
Everyone wants their life to mean something. We search for it. Dream of it. Study about it. Write songs about it. We want to look back at the end our life and know it has been better because we were in it.
And nobody can do it alone. Nobody. You might trick yourself into thinking you can do this life alone, but you can’t. We need each other.
We hurt.
We speak.
We try.
We join.
We love.
This I believe.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Halfway There
This week "Thursday Thank You"'s hits 500. That's halfway to 1000, which is my goal. If you haven't read the book 1000 Gifts, read it. I think I've said that, oh, a thousand times, so just believe me and do it.
This week I am thankful for. . .
491. getting to be just a small part of the work that is done through Kokomo Urban Outreach.
492. my husband, who graciously offers to give the kids their baths most nights. Have I mentioned how much I love him?
493. the journey of Lent and what I am learning through it.
494. family dinners.
495. new recipes.
496. answered prayers, especially for my dear friend Jennifer and her family.
497. my stubborn son, who still makes me smile.
498. my sassy daughter, who can rock footed pajamas like no other.
499. our first step in looking for a house to buy.
500. a Wittenbach visit this weekend.
What are you thankful for?
This week I am thankful for. . .
491. getting to be just a small part of the work that is done through Kokomo Urban Outreach.
492. my husband, who graciously offers to give the kids their baths most nights. Have I mentioned how much I love him?
493. the journey of Lent and what I am learning through it.
494. family dinners.
495. new recipes.
496. answered prayers, especially for my dear friend Jennifer and her family.
497. my stubborn son, who still makes me smile.
498. my sassy daughter, who can rock footed pajamas like no other.
499. our first step in looking for a house to buy.
500. a Wittenbach visit this weekend.
What are you thankful for?
Monday, February 27, 2012
Turnip the Music
I hope you all are sick of my food puns. Sorry, I just can't help it. And I'm just not very creative with blog titles.
Anyway, as you can guess from the title, this week's new food is the turnip.
This is what a turnip looks like. I hear that turnip greens are really good for you. The turnip has some vitamin C, and I think it's lower in carbs than the potato, but nothing crazy nutritious. I tried to find a recipe for turnips, but I didn't have all of the ingredients for any of them. I did find a recipe for turnip fries. And although I've already made parsnip fries, I decided to go for it.
First step is to peel the turnip.
Then cut the turnips into fries. Drizzle with a little oil.
Put them on a pan that has been covered in foil and sprayed with Pam (or the Meijer equivalent of Pam). Mix together a couple of tablespoons of Parmesan cheese and 1/2 teaspoon each of garlic salt, onion powder, and paprika.
Bake at 425 for 20 minutes.
The verdict? Really good! I'm so glad I didn't go with something different, because these were much better than the parsnips. They had good flavor and were just the right texture. We ate them all, so I would consider this adventure a success.
Now it's onto something new! Any suggestions?
Anyway, as you can guess from the title, this week's new food is the turnip.
This is what a turnip looks like. I hear that turnip greens are really good for you. The turnip has some vitamin C, and I think it's lower in carbs than the potato, but nothing crazy nutritious. I tried to find a recipe for turnips, but I didn't have all of the ingredients for any of them. I did find a recipe for turnip fries. And although I've already made parsnip fries, I decided to go for it.
First step is to peel the turnip.
Then cut the turnips into fries. Drizzle with a little oil.
Put them on a pan that has been covered in foil and sprayed with Pam (or the Meijer equivalent of Pam). Mix together a couple of tablespoons of Parmesan cheese and 1/2 teaspoon each of garlic salt, onion powder, and paprika.
Bake at 425 for 20 minutes.
The verdict? Really good! I'm so glad I didn't go with something different, because these were much better than the parsnips. They had good flavor and were just the right texture. We ate them all, so I would consider this adventure a success.
Now it's onto something new! Any suggestions?
Friday, February 24, 2012
Crossing the Line
Yesterday at Bridges we did an activity that was incredibly powerful. It reminded me exactly why I work with these students.
All week they had been discussing diversity. To finish the week, the leaders wanted to show the students that no matter how different you may feel, you are not alone. So, they had all of the students line up, shoulder to shoulder, on a line. Then Casey, the leader, proceeded to read a statement. If the statement applied to you, you crossed over the line and walked about 6 feet across the room. There you turned around and faced the rest of your peers. Those left standing gave the "I love you" sign with their hands.
The statements started off very simple. Statements were easy, like:
I am a male.
I am a female.
But as the activity went on, things got deeper and more serious. These were just a few:
I have been made fun of before.
Someone in my family has a disability.
And then we got very intense. A couple of the more intense ones were:
Someone in my family is currently in prison.
Home is not a place where I feel safe.
And each time, students crossed the line, only to find that they were not the only ones dealing with these issues. Many, including myself, were moved to tears, as kids walked across the line, some with arms around each other, to step out and say, "Yes, this is me. This is the stuff I deal with."
One of the statements that really touched me was "My parents are either divorced, separated, or were never married." I'm not exaggerating, over 75% of the students crossed the line.
As we debriefed after the activity, students shared what this meant to them. Many shared that it was such a relief to know that others were struggling with the same things they were struggling with. Some were just so encouraged by the fact that nobody laughed when they crossed the line. Some cried, saying that it was the first time they had really acknowledged these things.
We hugged.
We cried.
We left thankful.
And I was reminded why I love working with Bridges kids. They can be frustrating and challenging and, well, middle schoolers. But they are also full of strength and passion. They are funny, smart, and brave. And I get to walk alongside them and tell them that God loves them and has a plan for them.
Maybe it's time we all crossed the line and were open and honest about what we are dealing with. Maybe it would help to know that I'm not the only one who is lonely, or who is scared I'm messing my kids up, or who has no idea what to do with their career. Maybe putting it out there will help others see that they are not alone either.
All week they had been discussing diversity. To finish the week, the leaders wanted to show the students that no matter how different you may feel, you are not alone. So, they had all of the students line up, shoulder to shoulder, on a line. Then Casey, the leader, proceeded to read a statement. If the statement applied to you, you crossed over the line and walked about 6 feet across the room. There you turned around and faced the rest of your peers. Those left standing gave the "I love you" sign with their hands.
The statements started off very simple. Statements were easy, like:
I am a male.
I am a female.
But as the activity went on, things got deeper and more serious. These were just a few:
I have been made fun of before.
Someone in my family has a disability.
And then we got very intense. A couple of the more intense ones were:
Someone in my family is currently in prison.
Home is not a place where I feel safe.
And each time, students crossed the line, only to find that they were not the only ones dealing with these issues. Many, including myself, were moved to tears, as kids walked across the line, some with arms around each other, to step out and say, "Yes, this is me. This is the stuff I deal with."
One of the statements that really touched me was "My parents are either divorced, separated, or were never married." I'm not exaggerating, over 75% of the students crossed the line.
As we debriefed after the activity, students shared what this meant to them. Many shared that it was such a relief to know that others were struggling with the same things they were struggling with. Some were just so encouraged by the fact that nobody laughed when they crossed the line. Some cried, saying that it was the first time they had really acknowledged these things.
We hugged.
We cried.
We left thankful.
And I was reminded why I love working with Bridges kids. They can be frustrating and challenging and, well, middle schoolers. But they are also full of strength and passion. They are funny, smart, and brave. And I get to walk alongside them and tell them that God loves them and has a plan for them.
Maybe it's time we all crossed the line and were open and honest about what we are dealing with. Maybe it would help to know that I'm not the only one who is lonely, or who is scared I'm messing my kids up, or who has no idea what to do with their career. Maybe putting it out there will help others see that they are not alone either.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
You never know
God has plans.
Big plans.
Did you know that?
Do you believe it?
I say I do, but sometimes I forget. And then God reminds me in ways that pretty much blow my mind, and I am stunned and thankful and humbled.
Let me back up, oh, 17 years. My first year of college was almost over, and everyone at Lincoln Christian College (now University) went on one of the many missions trips that was scheduled. For some reason, I ended up with almost all seniors on a trip to Jamaica.
It was a trip that affected me for many reasons. It was my first airplane ride. My first experience with cross-cultural ministry. My first time seeing true poverty. I left a changed person.
Another way the trip affected me is that I made some friends who are still my friends all of these years later. They live all over the map, and it has been so cool, thanks to Facebook, to reconnect with several of them.
Two of these people are Hank and Julie. They were engaged at the time of our trip, and I didn't really know them very well before the trip. Just in the short time I spent with them, I saw their love for God and also their incredible love for children. I still remember one little Jamaican boy from the church we were working with completely in love with them. I don't think he let go of them the entire time we were there. I also remember thinking, "These two are going to be great parents."
Fast forward to 2010. I went with a group from our church to Haiti. I've written lots and lots about Haiti, but the important point here is that I made yet another friend: Ginny. She still lives and works in Haiti, although now it's in Port-au-Prince and with a different mission. But we still keep in touch and have tried to help her on different occasions (Like with Nadine). About a month ago, she sent out an email about a little boy named Noah who needs to come to the U.S. to have a corneal transplant. It is all set up to take place in Boston, but they need a host family to take care of him while he is recovering.
Through the wonders of the internet, I knew that Hank and Julie, along with their daughters, lead a church in Boston. I sent them an email, hoping that they would know someone in the area who could help Noah.
Long story short (too late): Noah is going to be staying with Hank and Julie. Julie just sent me an e-mail explaining all of the cool ways God has worked to put this all together, including lots of people from their church.
So, to re-cap, two different missions trips, two sets of friends, two decades apart, all came together to help bring about sight for a little boy in Haiti. You can't tell me that God didn't have a plan.
Does God need me? Nope.
Does God love to let me be a part of His plans? Absolutely.
I know this post is long. If you've read it all, I applaud you. I just couldn't help sharing that God works in ways we might not ever understand, and it's amazing when we get to see just a glimpse of it.
Keep looking. . .
Big plans.
Did you know that?
Do you believe it?
I say I do, but sometimes I forget. And then God reminds me in ways that pretty much blow my mind, and I am stunned and thankful and humbled.
Let me back up, oh, 17 years. My first year of college was almost over, and everyone at Lincoln Christian College (now University) went on one of the many missions trips that was scheduled. For some reason, I ended up with almost all seniors on a trip to Jamaica.
It was a trip that affected me for many reasons. It was my first airplane ride. My first experience with cross-cultural ministry. My first time seeing true poverty. I left a changed person.
Another way the trip affected me is that I made some friends who are still my friends all of these years later. They live all over the map, and it has been so cool, thanks to Facebook, to reconnect with several of them.
Two of these people are Hank and Julie. They were engaged at the time of our trip, and I didn't really know them very well before the trip. Just in the short time I spent with them, I saw their love for God and also their incredible love for children. I still remember one little Jamaican boy from the church we were working with completely in love with them. I don't think he let go of them the entire time we were there. I also remember thinking, "These two are going to be great parents."
Fast forward to 2010. I went with a group from our church to Haiti. I've written lots and lots about Haiti, but the important point here is that I made yet another friend: Ginny. She still lives and works in Haiti, although now it's in Port-au-Prince and with a different mission. But we still keep in touch and have tried to help her on different occasions (Like with Nadine). About a month ago, she sent out an email about a little boy named Noah who needs to come to the U.S. to have a corneal transplant. It is all set up to take place in Boston, but they need a host family to take care of him while he is recovering.
Through the wonders of the internet, I knew that Hank and Julie, along with their daughters, lead a church in Boston. I sent them an email, hoping that they would know someone in the area who could help Noah.
Long story short (too late): Noah is going to be staying with Hank and Julie. Julie just sent me an e-mail explaining all of the cool ways God has worked to put this all together, including lots of people from their church.
So, to re-cap, two different missions trips, two sets of friends, two decades apart, all came together to help bring about sight for a little boy in Haiti. You can't tell me that God didn't have a plan.
Does God need me? Nope.
Does God love to let me be a part of His plans? Absolutely.
I know this post is long. If you've read it all, I applaud you. I just couldn't help sharing that God works in ways we might not ever understand, and it's amazing when we get to see just a glimpse of it.
Keep looking. . .
Monday, February 20, 2012
Plan B
My Valentine's gift was supposed to be a night out to Indy with David.
Yeah, that didn't happen.
We had two sick kids from Thursday night until Saturday morning. And while they were feeling tons better on Saturday, I didn't want to risk having someone else watch them and leave town.
Enter Plan B.
I decided since we couldn't go out, I would try and make something special for us to eat. These are Soba noodles, which are made from buckwheat. I found them on clearance at Meijer and did some research on Pinterest. You cook them just like any other noodle, and then rinse under cold water. You can eat them hot or cold, and they are usually used in Chinese/Asian cooking.
Once I cooked the noodles up, I mixed a little sauce for them of rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil (forgot to add to the picture), and green onions. I also stirred in some rotisserie chicken to add a little bulk to the meal.
Mix it all up and add some toasted sesame seeds.
The result?
Really good. This was one of the best "new food" tries we have had so far. David went to the local chinese take-out place nearby and bought some eggrolls to go along with the noodles, and I steamed some asparagus as well.
And while it wasn't the same as going out on the town with the hubby for Valentine's, it was a welcome relief from sick kids and working late.
Who knew Soba noodles could be so romantic?
Yeah, that didn't happen.
We had two sick kids from Thursday night until Saturday morning. And while they were feeling tons better on Saturday, I didn't want to risk having someone else watch them and leave town.
Enter Plan B.
I decided since we couldn't go out, I would try and make something special for us to eat. These are Soba noodles, which are made from buckwheat. I found them on clearance at Meijer and did some research on Pinterest. You cook them just like any other noodle, and then rinse under cold water. You can eat them hot or cold, and they are usually used in Chinese/Asian cooking.
Once I cooked the noodles up, I mixed a little sauce for them of rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil (forgot to add to the picture), and green onions. I also stirred in some rotisserie chicken to add a little bulk to the meal.
The result?
Really good. This was one of the best "new food" tries we have had so far. David went to the local chinese take-out place nearby and bought some eggrolls to go along with the noodles, and I steamed some asparagus as well.
And while it wasn't the same as going out on the town with the hubby for Valentine's, it was a welcome relief from sick kids and working late.
Who knew Soba noodles could be so romantic?
Friday, February 17, 2012
I spoke too soon. . .
I had a post planned about this guy who sits in his wheelchair by the side of the road with a sign that says "Will Work for Food". I have a dilemna about him, but I will have to save that post for another day. We had quite an eventful night in the Wittenbach house last night. Both kids were throwing up all night. It was surreal. I can't believe how much laundry we did in the middle of the night. Nobody slept, and everyone is kind of cranky this morning. But I am so thankful that we survived the night without a trip to the ER (which Noel has been known to do when he gets a stomach bug) and it reminds me again of how healthy we all are most of the time. Health is one of those things you don't think about until you don't have it.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Thursday Thank You's
This week I am thankful for. . .
481. my sous chef, Noel.
482. watching Elise dance all day. I wish I had that kind of spirit.
483. borrowing exercise DVD's from the library. It's been a fun change of pace.
484. Valentine's party at Noel's preschool. Double thankful that we weren't there on the day a little girl barfed all over!
485. a great fundraiser banquet at church Friday to help raise money for the youth trip to Haiti this summer.
486. not having to change a single poopy diaper anymore!!
487. having the discipline to do memory verses with the kids. This was something we started with the new year, and has been going really well. Wish we started this 2 years ago!
488. date night and plans for a getaway without kids!!!!
489. a funny text conversation with an old friend. Made me laugh all night. There is something about a friend was your friend even when you wore flannel shirts and pegged jeans.
490. the end is in sight for my online class! Let the re-certification begin!
What are you thankful for?
481. my sous chef, Noel.
482. watching Elise dance all day. I wish I had that kind of spirit.
483. borrowing exercise DVD's from the library. It's been a fun change of pace.
484. Valentine's party at Noel's preschool. Double thankful that we weren't there on the day a little girl barfed all over!
485. a great fundraiser banquet at church Friday to help raise money for the youth trip to Haiti this summer.
486. not having to change a single poopy diaper anymore!!
487. having the discipline to do memory verses with the kids. This was something we started with the new year, and has been going really well. Wish we started this 2 years ago!
488. date night and plans for a getaway without kids!!!!
489. a funny text conversation with an old friend. Made me laugh all night. There is something about a friend was your friend even when you wore flannel shirts and pegged jeans.
490. the end is in sight for my online class! Let the re-certification begin!
What are you thankful for?
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
New Foods Continue!
Lest you think I have forgotten about my "new food" resolution this year, I have not. I have just forgotten to take very many pictures or post what I have made. This past week the new food was. . .
The Opo Squash!
Isn't it crazy that there is a squash out there that I've never heard of?
You're on the edge of your seat; I can tell.
The little sign on the Opo Squash said you can use it any way you use a summer squash or zucchini. So that's exactly what I did.
I diced it up (no peeling necessary)
And threw it in with my vegetable soup. It tasted just like zucchini. I kept some out to steam on its own so I could see what it tasted like, but it got left out.
So, it's on to more food adventures. Any suggestions? I'm thinking a new grain is on the horizon--maybe cous cous or quinoa?
Monday, February 13, 2012
Thursday Thank You's. . .on a Tuesday!
Sometimes giving thanks is easy. Sometimes I can rattle off 20 things I am thankful for.
But sometimes it's hard.
Sometimes expectations lead to disappointment. I'll be honest on this blog (for all 4 of you who read this) and admit that I am going through kind of a rough spell. Life is kind of a struggle right now, and I am lonely. In a life filled with questions from a 5 year-old and chatter from an almost 3 year-old you would think what I want is some peace and quiet. And believe me, I do. But more often than not, what I want is conversation. Good conversation. The kind where there might be laughter and tears in the same few moments. The kind where you haven't looked at the clock because the time doesn't matter right now. I'm missing that right now.
I say all of this not so you feel sorry for me. Not in the least. I live a very blessed life, and I try every day not to take what I have been given for granted. But I say all of that to confess that sometimes it is difficult to give thanks. Last Thursday I didn't want to give thanks. I was busy and a little ragged and, if I'm being honest with myself, full of self-pity. So I didn't post what I was thankful for. And that nasty attitude has continued through tonight. I was reminded tonight that giving thanks doesn't mean everything is wonderful. Giving thanks is seeking God's blessings and finding it in the midst of hard time.
And so this list of thanksgivings is going to be a little different, because it's going to be truths from the Bible. I hope these truths speak to you like they continue to speak to me.
Today, I am thankful. . .
471. that I am fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14)
472. for the comfort of the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5)
473. for God's forgiveness (Matthew 26:28)
474. for God's promises that I can hang onto (2 Peter 1:4)
475. for music to praise Him (Psalm 69:30)
476. for God's unending love. (Psalm 107)
477. that I am not a slave to sin anymore! (Romans 6:17)
478. for examples of faithfulness I see in others. (Ephesians 1:15)
479. for answered prayers (Philippians 4:6-7)
480. that no matter what, I am God's child, and I can place my value in that (Colossians 1:12)
What are you thankful for?
But sometimes it's hard.
Sometimes expectations lead to disappointment. I'll be honest on this blog (for all 4 of you who read this) and admit that I am going through kind of a rough spell. Life is kind of a struggle right now, and I am lonely. In a life filled with questions from a 5 year-old and chatter from an almost 3 year-old you would think what I want is some peace and quiet. And believe me, I do. But more often than not, what I want is conversation. Good conversation. The kind where there might be laughter and tears in the same few moments. The kind where you haven't looked at the clock because the time doesn't matter right now. I'm missing that right now.
I say all of this not so you feel sorry for me. Not in the least. I live a very blessed life, and I try every day not to take what I have been given for granted. But I say all of that to confess that sometimes it is difficult to give thanks. Last Thursday I didn't want to give thanks. I was busy and a little ragged and, if I'm being honest with myself, full of self-pity. So I didn't post what I was thankful for. And that nasty attitude has continued through tonight. I was reminded tonight that giving thanks doesn't mean everything is wonderful. Giving thanks is seeking God's blessings and finding it in the midst of hard time.
And so this list of thanksgivings is going to be a little different, because it's going to be truths from the Bible. I hope these truths speak to you like they continue to speak to me.
Today, I am thankful. . .
471. that I am fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14)
472. for the comfort of the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5)
473. for God's forgiveness (Matthew 26:28)
474. for God's promises that I can hang onto (2 Peter 1:4)
475. for music to praise Him (Psalm 69:30)
476. for God's unending love. (Psalm 107)
477. that I am not a slave to sin anymore! (Romans 6:17)
478. for examples of faithfulness I see in others. (Ephesians 1:15)
479. for answered prayers (Philippians 4:6-7)
480. that no matter what, I am God's child, and I can place my value in that (Colossians 1:12)
What are you thankful for?
Tuesday, February 07, 2012
Some pictures for your enjoyment. Oh, and a little soup
Okay, so this has been a rarity around here. My kids are actually pretty disappointed because they like playing in the back yard. I'm disappointed, too, because we had to cancel this year's ski trip :(
Sigh.
In other news. . .
My brain is still completely fried from my class, and I'm dealing with some moral dilemmas in the class, but that's not what I want to share on here.
In "new food" news. . .
This is escarole. It's similar to lettuce, but with a little more cabbage-y flavor. I found a recipe on Pinterest (of course) called Chicken Escarole soup. It was super easy: canned tomatoes, broth, noodles, chicken, and escarole.
Success!! This was by far the best "new food" try we have had.
This kid loved it.
Noel even ate it.
We are on a new food roll!!!!!
Oh, wait. No we're not. Enter the prickly pear.
I thought they looked kind of fun, and the label said they had a berry flavor.
I had to wear a glove to hold them. They do live up to their name. But as for the berry flavor. . .bleh. The prickly pear was a total let down. I think I either didn't do it right, or this fruit is just not for me. But that's part of this experiment. Now, if I ever see a prickly pear on chopped, I'll know what they are messing with.
A bunch of yuck.
Sorry.
Have a great day!
Thursday, February 02, 2012
Thankful
I AM thankful.
Thankful that right now there are three kids (2 of which are mine) playing loudly in my living room.
Thankful that David is on his way home from a business trip.
Thankful that I had an awesome day at Bridges.
Thankful for a life spared in a car accident this week.
Thankful for a huge group of kids at church who have committed to going to Haiti this summer.
Thankful for french toast and bacon and all things syruppy.
I just can't make a list all numbered nice and neat. Not tonight. I'm too busy soaking it all in. So quit reading my blog and go be thankful.
Thankful that right now there are three kids (2 of which are mine) playing loudly in my living room.
Thankful that David is on his way home from a business trip.
Thankful that I had an awesome day at Bridges.
Thankful for a life spared in a car accident this week.
Thankful for a huge group of kids at church who have committed to going to Haiti this summer.
Thankful for french toast and bacon and all things syruppy.
I just can't make a list all numbered nice and neat. Not tonight. I'm too busy soaking it all in. So quit reading my blog and go be thankful.
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