I love my clothesline! I love the fresh smell of wind-blown laundry. And I love NOT spending money to run our ancient, wheezing, dying dryer.
But last night I was apparently oblivious to the approaching weather patterns as I happily hung out TWO loads of laundry on the line. At 11pm when the rain and thunder started... well.... by then it was too late. So, now the laundry will stay out a little longer. The fact that clothes were on the line only slightly subtracted from the joy of the thunder and lightening! And today my car was looking cleaned off (until I drove down our dirt road)... so hey! It's all good!
Memorial Day was a great day. We started the day in Jamestown, watching Jonothon march with the Unity Christian HS Drum Line (he was the sole cymbal player). Then we came home and grilled and enjoyed the company of good friends and a couple of new friends (our neighbors to the West). Hamburgers, homemade cherry pie AND brownies, lots of laughter, sitting in the sun, moving inside to play cards - Mary and Lori beat Mike and Chris at Euchre!
In the evening, after our friends had gone home, we made corn salsa and headed to Holland to see the Rosema's and the Peerbolt's! Roasted hot dogs around the huge fire (built in an old washer tub!) and shared lots of laughter again! Got back home around 11pm. It was a great day.
The boys are counting down school days left. Jono has HS finals next Mon, Tues, Wed. then he's done! Timi's 8th grade graduation is next Thursday night, the 4th. On Wed. the 3rd he's going with the eighth grade class to Cedar Point Amusement Park - Roller Coaster "King Of the Hill"! He should have a great a time!
Trying to plan summer.... perhaps a chance to get away? New Jersey sounds great! So does a camping trip down near Mammoth Cave in Kentucky - never been there. Summer may also include braces for Jono (shhhh! He doesn't know that yet!) and probably Driver's Training. The boys and Chris are going to Youth Alive (CRC) Convention in North Carolina at the end of July.
I'll be back again soon! Bye!
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Memorial Day Weekend
It's here... and that means summer will soon be upon us! The weather has been beautiful... some 70's, some 80's... little rain. I LOVE spring in Michigan. The freshness, the sunshine, the laundry on the line, the lilacs in bloom, fresh cut grass. And we've enjoyed the hammock a few times already. It's a blessing to be able to relax in it, reading or just napping.
And Lucy loves to lay out side for hours at a time. Occasionally she will tangle herself up around the clothesline posts and someone needs to run outside and 'guide' her back in and out and round and round until she is free once again!
The boys are finishing up their (half) school years and we are looking ahead to having both of them at Unity Christian High School in the Fall. Jonothon has enjoyed being in Freshman band and is considering Pep Band for the Fall. Timithi is excited about the Computer classes and opportunities and he has registered to be in Freshman band... trombone.... next year. (We'll be making a trip to Meyer Music very soon, so he can practice this summer!)
It was an adjustment in returning to 'institutionalized' schooling. So different from Homeschooling - both being very valuable and equally positive in their own ways.
I've struggled in not taking offense to the slight condescention I've encountered at the High School - as if homeschooling's not "real" schooling. They've no idea, really, if all they've ever experienced is school-in-a-box. (No condescention in that comment, right!?) I've seen and experienced public school, private school and home school. All have positives and negatives. I'm thankful my boys have had the experiences of Christian schools and home schooling. This blessing of Christian High School is wonderful for this season of our lives. And I am grateful for the people and education they've been exposed to.
Memorial Day weekend.... Jono's marching in a small parade in Jamestown, MI (Hudsonville) and then friends are coming over to grill and hang out. We'll set up the badminton net and the 'hillbilly horseshoes'. Just a relaxing day spent together!
And Lucy loves to lay out side for hours at a time. Occasionally she will tangle herself up around the clothesline posts and someone needs to run outside and 'guide' her back in and out and round and round until she is free once again!
The boys are finishing up their (half) school years and we are looking ahead to having both of them at Unity Christian High School in the Fall. Jonothon has enjoyed being in Freshman band and is considering Pep Band for the Fall. Timithi is excited about the Computer classes and opportunities and he has registered to be in Freshman band... trombone.... next year. (We'll be making a trip to Meyer Music very soon, so he can practice this summer!)
It was an adjustment in returning to 'institutionalized' schooling. So different from Homeschooling - both being very valuable and equally positive in their own ways.
I've struggled in not taking offense to the slight condescention I've encountered at the High School - as if homeschooling's not "real" schooling. They've no idea, really, if all they've ever experienced is school-in-a-box. (No condescention in that comment, right!?) I've seen and experienced public school, private school and home school. All have positives and negatives. I'm thankful my boys have had the experiences of Christian schools and home schooling. This blessing of Christian High School is wonderful for this season of our lives. And I am grateful for the people and education they've been exposed to.
Memorial Day weekend.... Jono's marching in a small parade in Jamestown, MI (Hudsonville) and then friends are coming over to grill and hang out. We'll set up the badminton net and the 'hillbilly horseshoes'. Just a relaxing day spent together!
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Hello???? Is anybody there????
I'm still here... well not here... not very often. I'm having a hard time getting 'online time'.
I'm not even working fulltime, but I really feel the change in working 20+ hours each week. I think it's the mental and emotional nature of my job that is exhausting... especially working with dementia patients. Providing personal care for people is extrememly rewarding to me.. I LOVE my job. The weariness comes from the growing care and concern I have for my clients as I spend time week after week with them, getting to know them. It's a "good" weariness... but I'm tired, nonetheless. It's a very relational job.
At home, I'm struggling with some teenager 'stuff' (attitude) and it's blowing my mind!?! "Who are you and what have you done with my son?!" I am frustrated with the sarcastic, impatient, eye-rolling responses to simple questions. The other day, I received such a response to my question and I'm tired of the "you need to respond with respect" talk. So I had him pull up a chair while I continued to do the dishes and had him read Matthew 5-7 aloud to me. (Praying throughout, that the Word would not return void, but would accomplish it's purpose.) I continue to pray for wisdom and insight into my son. He's an amazing young man and I know God can do great things in him!
The Maundy Thursday service at our church was awesome. There was a time for foot-washing, and I really wanted to go to my boys and wash their feet. But I wasn't sitting with them and I was afraid that they'd be more embarassed than appreciative. Chris was at the piano the whole time. We've done the footwashing at home on past years and it's a moving experience for us.
Easter was a great celebration with our church family, followed by dinner with our MI 'extended' family!
I'm not even working fulltime, but I really feel the change in working 20+ hours each week. I think it's the mental and emotional nature of my job that is exhausting... especially working with dementia patients. Providing personal care for people is extrememly rewarding to me.. I LOVE my job. The weariness comes from the growing care and concern I have for my clients as I spend time week after week with them, getting to know them. It's a "good" weariness... but I'm tired, nonetheless. It's a very relational job.
At home, I'm struggling with some teenager 'stuff' (attitude) and it's blowing my mind!?! "Who are you and what have you done with my son?!" I am frustrated with the sarcastic, impatient, eye-rolling responses to simple questions. The other day, I received such a response to my question and I'm tired of the "you need to respond with respect" talk. So I had him pull up a chair while I continued to do the dishes and had him read Matthew 5-7 aloud to me. (Praying throughout, that the Word would not return void, but would accomplish it's purpose.) I continue to pray for wisdom and insight into my son. He's an amazing young man and I know God can do great things in him!
The Maundy Thursday service at our church was awesome. There was a time for foot-washing, and I really wanted to go to my boys and wash their feet. But I wasn't sitting with them and I was afraid that they'd be more embarassed than appreciative. Chris was at the piano the whole time. We've done the footwashing at home on past years and it's a moving experience for us.
Easter was a great celebration with our church family, followed by dinner with our MI 'extended' family!
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
February 18, 2009
Hey! It's been way too long since I've contributed anything to this blog.... Life has flown by and I don't seem to be able to fit in time to blog...
God is blessing our family in big and small ways and we are grateful for His light that shines in our lives.
Over time you've healed so much in me, and I am living proof
That although my darkest hour had come, your light could still shine through
Though at times it's just enough to cast a shadow on the wall,
Still I am grateful that you shine your light on me at all
Who am I; that you would love me so gently?
Who am I; that you would recognize my name?
Lord who am I; that you would speak to me so softly
Conversation with the love most high... who am I?
Amazing grace how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me,
I once was lost but now I'm found, was blind but now I see,
And the more I sing that sweet old song, the more I understand.
That I do not comprehend this love that's coming from your hand...
Who am I; that you would love me so gently?
Who am I; that you would recognize my name?
Lord who am I; that you would speak to me so softly
Conversation with the love most high... who am I?
Grace, grace... God's grace
Grace that will pardon and cleanse within,
Grace, grace... God's great grace
Grace that is greater than all my sin
Who am I; that you would love me so gently?
Who am I; that you would recognize my name?
Lord who am I; that you would speak to me so softly
Conversation with the love most high... who am I?
May you be blessed in knowing that He knows your name and He loves you!
God is blessing our family in big and small ways and we are grateful for His light that shines in our lives.
Over time you've healed so much in me, and I am living proof
That although my darkest hour had come, your light could still shine through
Though at times it's just enough to cast a shadow on the wall,
Still I am grateful that you shine your light on me at all
Who am I; that you would love me so gently?
Who am I; that you would recognize my name?
Lord who am I; that you would speak to me so softly
Conversation with the love most high... who am I?
Amazing grace how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me,
I once was lost but now I'm found, was blind but now I see,
And the more I sing that sweet old song, the more I understand.
That I do not comprehend this love that's coming from your hand...
Who am I; that you would love me so gently?
Who am I; that you would recognize my name?
Lord who am I; that you would speak to me so softly
Conversation with the love most high... who am I?
Grace, grace... God's grace
Grace that will pardon and cleanse within,
Grace, grace... God's great grace
Grace that is greater than all my sin
Who am I; that you would love me so gently?
Who am I; that you would recognize my name?
Lord who am I; that you would speak to me so softly
Conversation with the love most high... who am I?
May you be blessed in knowing that He knows your name and He loves you!
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
One month since I last blogged! I think when life gets going too fast and my schedule is busy, I don't take enough time to reflect on life. I hope to bring back some reflection time. May have to schedule it in.
I have been spending lots of time on Facebook... such fun to be able to keep up with so many different people. It's rather addicting. Sign-on, check emails, go to Facebook.
I'm starting the second semester with eighth and ninth grades at home. Contemplating a drama production - Les Mis and also fencing lessons for Jono. Timithi is immersing himself in his computers: game design, web design, re-structuring computers for other people. He's amazing.
I'm teaching Lucy to 'roll over'... she's almost got it!
The name of God I studied yesterday was El Roi - The God Who Sees.
"Lord, I praise you for you know the whole story. From beginning to end, you see it all. Give me the humility to admit my limitations. For I don't always see the past accurately, my vision of the present is often blurred, and I am blind when it comes to the future. Help me fasten my eyes on you, trusting in your vision for my life and in your watchful care."
I have been spending lots of time on Facebook... such fun to be able to keep up with so many different people. It's rather addicting. Sign-on, check emails, go to Facebook.
I'm starting the second semester with eighth and ninth grades at home. Contemplating a drama production - Les Mis and also fencing lessons for Jono. Timithi is immersing himself in his computers: game design, web design, re-structuring computers for other people. He's amazing.
I'm teaching Lucy to 'roll over'... she's almost got it!
The name of God I studied yesterday was El Roi - The God Who Sees.
"Lord, I praise you for you know the whole story. From beginning to end, you see it all. Give me the humility to admit my limitations. For I don't always see the past accurately, my vision of the present is often blurred, and I am blind when it comes to the future. Help me fasten my eyes on you, trusting in your vision for my life and in your watchful care."
Friday, December 5, 2008
Snow is back!
I love the snow! So, as I look out my window, feeling like I'm inside a snow globe, I am happy! It's beautiful!
We've been in Jenison for almost two months now and the church did pass their annual budget which includes Chris's job, so he's got some job security for awhile. Let the ministry begin! We are enjoying being in a healthier church than before and are already growing to love these people! The boys are making some connections and so am I.
I need to find some employment and am open to anything... retail, elder care giver, housecleaning, temporary work. Praying that God will lead me to the right type of work.
I've been scrapbooking lately... with Dawn, Cheryl and Laurie... and I'm back in the scrapping 'zone'! Now I can't seem to stop. Except to home school, make Christmas cookies, and crocheting some Christmas gifts!
The boys have been shoveling the driveway as we have about 8-10 inches on the ground. Lucy loves it and we're going to try to fix her up with a longer tie-out so she can romp more freely in the snow. Sometimes Mocha, a neighbor dog, comes by and the two of them 'dance' around together... very cute.
Facebook is connecting me with all sorts of wonderful people: my brother, Rod... second cousins, Sara, Camille, Ben... nieces and nephews, Camilla, Seamus, Simone, David, Deanna, Kristina, Aquilla, Mamie, Libby... My dear High School friend, Jenny... and some former students from New Jersey. Such a fun way to re-connect with long-distance friends and family!
I'm still finding my way in getting settled in this house, becoming a part of a new church, and preparing for Christmas. I love my life-long friends in Muskegon... they have become like family to us all!
God is good and His hand is always upon us. I am grateful for His peace, joy, and grace which floods our lives on a daily basis!
We've been in Jenison for almost two months now and the church did pass their annual budget which includes Chris's job, so he's got some job security for awhile. Let the ministry begin! We are enjoying being in a healthier church than before and are already growing to love these people! The boys are making some connections and so am I.
I need to find some employment and am open to anything... retail, elder care giver, housecleaning, temporary work. Praying that God will lead me to the right type of work.
I've been scrapbooking lately... with Dawn, Cheryl and Laurie... and I'm back in the scrapping 'zone'! Now I can't seem to stop. Except to home school, make Christmas cookies, and crocheting some Christmas gifts!
The boys have been shoveling the driveway as we have about 8-10 inches on the ground. Lucy loves it and we're going to try to fix her up with a longer tie-out so she can romp more freely in the snow. Sometimes Mocha, a neighbor dog, comes by and the two of them 'dance' around together... very cute.
Facebook is connecting me with all sorts of wonderful people: my brother, Rod... second cousins, Sara, Camille, Ben... nieces and nephews, Camilla, Seamus, Simone, David, Deanna, Kristina, Aquilla, Mamie, Libby... My dear High School friend, Jenny... and some former students from New Jersey. Such a fun way to re-connect with long-distance friends and family!
I'm still finding my way in getting settled in this house, becoming a part of a new church, and preparing for Christmas. I love my life-long friends in Muskegon... they have become like family to us all!
God is good and His hand is always upon us. I am grateful for His peace, joy, and grace which floods our lives on a daily basis!
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
November is national Adoption Month!
November is national Adoption Month! Praise God for adoption and for the blessings of Jonothon and Timithi! They have always been, for me, God's expression of his great love for me. After 10 years dealing with infertility... within FOUR days of applying for adoption, Jonothon was born and we brought him home from the hospital two day later! Miracle!!! A year (and 12 days) later, Timithi was born and one month after re-opening our adoption file, he was in our arms. A second Miracle! What a courageous and loving sacrifice on the parts of Kristen and Marissa, our birthmothers, to place these precious lives within our empty arms. God as done marvelous things for us and we thank him everyday for our boys! So many others we know have been blessed by adoption (or are currently going through the process)... Russ and Laurie, Tim and Maria, Dan and Kerri, Paul and Vicki, Chad and Carrie, Jeremy and Kathy, Matt and Stephanie... and many more. I'm praying for women to be courageous and making the loving choice to give life to families who long desperately adopt a child. Pray for Christian counselors at pregnancy centers, pray for loving support of young pregnant girls, and pray for the older children in foster care who need stable, loving families.
First snowfall of the season this weekend and I'm so excited! Here's how silly I get about snow. Last night we picked up Chris at the office and went to a movie in Grand Rapids... "The Boy in the Striped Pajamas" - I highly recommend it! Anyway... on the way home we had to stop by the church so Chris could get his car. The parking lot was virtually empty and was covered with a dusting of snow. A perfect 'slate'.... Now this takes some skill... I wrote "Lori" (in cursive) by driving my car in loops.... it's a BIG parking lot. My boys thought I had totally lost it when I got out of the car and 'dotted the i' with my feet. As we left the parking lot, I underlined my name. It looked pretty cool!
At church we are on a three-week journey of praying for the persecuted Church. We've been given a 21-day devotional that leads us in praying for specific countries and issues. Then the movie last night... about the holocaust... plus I've been reading the end of the Left Behind series... "Blessed are you when men persecute you for My sake..." "Pray for your enemies..." "My grace is sufficient for you, for my strength is made perfect in weakness." "I am with you always, even to the end of the age." "The prayers of a righteous man availeth much." "Pray without ceasing."
Sorry it's been so long since I've updated this... I'll try to do better!
Blessings!!
First snowfall of the season this weekend and I'm so excited! Here's how silly I get about snow. Last night we picked up Chris at the office and went to a movie in Grand Rapids... "The Boy in the Striped Pajamas" - I highly recommend it! Anyway... on the way home we had to stop by the church so Chris could get his car. The parking lot was virtually empty and was covered with a dusting of snow. A perfect 'slate'.... Now this takes some skill... I wrote "Lori" (in cursive) by driving my car in loops.... it's a BIG parking lot. My boys thought I had totally lost it when I got out of the car and 'dotted the i' with my feet. As we left the parking lot, I underlined my name. It looked pretty cool!
At church we are on a three-week journey of praying for the persecuted Church. We've been given a 21-day devotional that leads us in praying for specific countries and issues. Then the movie last night... about the holocaust... plus I've been reading the end of the Left Behind series... "Blessed are you when men persecute you for My sake..." "Pray for your enemies..." "My grace is sufficient for you, for my strength is made perfect in weakness." "I am with you always, even to the end of the age." "The prayers of a righteous man availeth much." "Pray without ceasing."
Sorry it's been so long since I've updated this... I'll try to do better!
Blessings!!
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