My Current Status

I should be doing school, but I am not. Every January, my family seems to get stricken with this sinus cold bug. It hit my dad last week, and now, it is Mom's turn. So, it is kind of hard to do school when the teacher is sick. Right now, I am waiting for bread to finish rising so I can deal with it.

Church...well....we tried somewhere yesterday (before Mom really got sick.) It was okay. But beyond that, the Lord has given me a peace that truly passes all understanding. I have had meltdowns and had to lay my feelings before the Throne of Grace. Truly, Christ has enabled me to leave it at His feet. My former church will always be a part of me (nothing can replace that) However, everything is out in the open; we all understand each other; and I wouldn't have it any other way!

I am in the process of working on a new blog. Actually, my wonderful friend, Erin, is designing a template for me. So, if things look "messy" around here, you know why. This template won't be gone forever. I just will have two to use!

Well, perhaps I shall leave you with an article I have written for the next issue of HopeChest Magazine. I would love y'alls opinion of it. Have a fabulous week!

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What is Ministry

Scenario #1—You are at church and you notice the bulletin. “Volunteer for one of our various ministries. It is an amazing way to do great things for God!” Yet as you ponder all of the various groups you could be apart of, you do not feel drawn to any of them. In fact, you don’t feel led by God. However, you start to feel guilty. “People won’t think I love the Lord,” you moan to yourself.

Scenario #2—You have returned home from a missions trip. Learning to go without, ministering to the poor and needy, watching some answer the call of Jesus…it was an experience you will never forget. Now, as you sit at home, you feel useless. “I know I was doing God’s work over in _____. But what now? Trips cost money, which I don’t have. Oh, I feel like such a waste!”

Are you familiar with any of these scenarios? I certainly am…particularly with #1. The Lord has not given me the desire to be a part of countless ministries in the church. Indeed, He has removed ones that I was doing. Yet does that mean that I do not love God anymore, or that I cannot show others His light? I mean, I was doing that by working in children’s church and playing offertory; people could see my spiritual life. Now, I certainly don’t look I am doing “great things to further God’s kingdom.” Or am I?

Ministry isn’t just something to be done in the church or off on a distant land. Yes, those are good, but they aren’t the only ways one can show the love of Christ to their fellow man. May I be so bold as to suggest a way that is often overlooked? It is called “home-based ministry. This labor of love enriches the lives of every family member as well as communicates to the world the worth and value of every life that God has breathed into man. ”

What forms can home-based ministry take? 1 Peter 4:10-11 says, “God has given gifts to each of you from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Manage them well so that God’s generosity can flow through you. Are you called to be a speaker? Then speak as though the Lord were speaking through you? Are you called to help others? Do it with all the strength and energy God supplies. Then God will be given glory in everything through Jesus Christ. All glory and power belong to Him forever and ever. Amen.” No two people are given the same gifts; thus, we all have different talents and avenues to use.

Some ways I have found:
Write a card to a little girl friend from church, saying that you hope she has a wonderful day. You never know how much it means to them!

Make yummy things from your kitchen and give them to your unsaved neighbors who might be having difficulties. Write a note saying you are praying for them.

Be a light to those surrounding you, a symbol of a functional family in the midst of divorce and heartache.

Baby-sit for a young couple so they can have a date night together once a month.

Bake something your dad specifically asks you to bake…even if it means you don’t get to watch that movie you wanted.

Help your mom practice hospitality by having people over for a meal. Then, when dishes need clear, you go do them so she can talk with them.

These might seem menial and insignificant, but we never know the impact they had until Heaven and its glory. And you know what? That is okay. Christ came not to be served, but to served.

I do not want to appear as if I am saying the Great Commission is wrong and we should not heed it. Christ said for us to “go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Ghost, ” and we should. But that can mean right in our own backyard, through working side by side with our families. Whenever we “work hard and cheerfully at whatever we do, as though we were working for the Lord rather than for people, ” we are bringing glory to God.

So, do not despair if people think you are less of a Christian. Or if you have come home from the mission field feeling insignificant. Take heart! Christ has some major role for you to play in his better-than-Oscar winning epic. It might involve a seemingly less important role than one we wanted to be cast for, but without the behind-the-scenes crew, where would the major characters be? If we only submit to His directing, we CAN be an all-important part in the movie entitled, “Who Christ Is,” that will leave a legacy for generations to come.

For The Jane Austen Lover...Like Me :-)

I can hardly believe that I only began watching the Jane Austen movie adaptions and reading four (working on five) of her novels a year and a half ago! It seems like forever! She is probably my favorite author--Louisa May Alcott is second. However, I do try to watch how often I watch and read these delightful classics. They can breed a spirit of discontent if we aren't careful.


Yet, these books transport me back to a different era--one I would gladly go back to if I could. You all know my thoughts on Regency England to believe me capable of that! Why we traded that for what we have now I will never know.


So, PBS and Masterpiece Theatre have undertaken the task and made film adaptions to all six Jane Austen classics. The stories of true love, intrigue, secrets, courtship, and social standing air from 9 to 10:30 on Sunday evenings. So if you can either record or tune it, you should. (Your brother might think you're nuts, but your Mom will love them with you!) I enjoyed Persuasion last week...and I am looking forward to Northanger Abbey. It looks bizarre, but people say the novel is bizarre!

Take the Quiz here!

(And while I can't approve everything on this site--I haven't looked into it--I can say you should take this quiz. It is a lot of fun! See if you are like your favorite Jane Austen character!)

Cutting Away My Vanity....Literally!!

We all have experienced it at least once; for me, it is twice now. I have an appointment to keep, yet when it’s over, I wish nothing more than to have skipped the whole thing. I feel like putting a bag on my head. That’s right…it’s called a bad hair cut.

Right now, I am living with mine…and I only got it cut Saturday. You see, I wear my hair in a style. I will admit it, I do not care for the stick straight hair that the Lord blessed me with. So, I get it to flip up, with a little help from a curling iron. Usually, I love it, and I can go about 5 months without worrying about it. Well, I will just say that that didn’t happen this time. My hair is about 4 inches shorter than I want it (!!!) and it will not hold the curl like it’s supposed to! Over the past two days, I have joked that my hair appointment was like the scene in Roman Holiday. (Audrey Hepburn is getting her hair cut....yet her hair dresser wackes it off in quick motions as he says, "Off!")

I do not believe I am a vain person. I mean, I love it when my hair works out, but that is as far as it goes. However, whatever semblance of vanity I did have is currently gone at the moment. I used to look at my reflection a lot (I have ever since I was little) but now, I can't stand to even get a glimpse of my shadow. With my hair looking a shorn sheep (I am not kidding) I realize all the more that beauty comes from inside a person. Just like with make-up, you can’t get your hair to disguise who you are inside. In times like these, we need our interior to shine forth and say to people, “I know my hair looks terrible, which in turn makes me look terrible. However, there is more to me than that. I know actresses always seem to look pretty with their hair in place. Just remember…they were at a photo shot or some gala party when that picture was taken; of course they want to look their best when they are in the public eye. We have no idea what they look like the rest of the time.”

Now, I do not know how I can handle my hair until it grows out a few inches. And believe it or not, I will still get my hair “styled” every few months...I think! =) (I won’t go back to that hair dresser I am sure of THAT.) Yet I will not say that I haven’t learned something through this hair fiasco. I realize that there is more to beauty than have “the best hair.” Once more, it is the interior beauty of a person’s life that matters!

Snow! Snow!

I needed to post a momentous occasion. For those of you in the South (who don't get to experience snow) or those of you in New England (who are having warmer than usual temperatures)...or to those who do not think we get snow here, I want you to take not of the picture. We have had 5 inches in the past two days!! Granted, it is blue sky right now, but should it not rain, we will have a great deal of it for....a while!

You know, the snow has made me think of the winter holidays again. That, in turn, makes me think of A Modest Carol. I really need to finish that!!! Thanks for your patience!

Time At the Zoo

Well, I was wrong. My family didn't start church looking on Sunday....long story. it will be next Sunday. So, we enjoyed a nice time of homechurching. And then, we decided to get some KFC (Garrett's request) and go to the zoo. We had to renew our pass, but that is fine with us. It is such a lovely way to see God's creation! There was next to nobody there, so it was nice and quiet!
The sloth bear

I love this shot!! And no, the tiger wasn't loose like that at the San Fransisco zoo!
Say, "Pretty Bird!"

Doesn't the poor guy looked bored?

Well, that's all I have time for. God has just created a vast world, and I wanted to share a glimpse of it with you!

Draw Me Close to You

"Draw me close to you

Never let me go

I lay it all down again

To hear You say that I'm Your friend

Help me find the way--bring me back to You

You're all I want
You're all I've ever needed
You're all I want
Help me know you are near"

2008 is upon us now. I look ahead to the forthcoming year. Yes, there are things that I am joyfully anticipating. I will get to vote for the first time; Lord willing, I will get to meet at least two of my online friends; there are the times with family where many memories are created....the list can go on and on.

However, it isn't just fun things that will await me in 2008. I can see there is much uncertainty. I will graduate from high school--and I won't attend college. I know that I will have much debate with several of those closest to me. Also, my family will begin searching for a church body again. Indeed, that hunt is on Sunday =

I struggle with this feeling every year....maybe every day. I so long to know the answers to my many questions. Where will we get situated for church? And when? How will Nana and PopPop respond when they talk about college and they find out my plans to remain home? Will my relationship with them be changed?

Yet, once again, I want the Lord to be seeing me through the twists and turns of my life's path. I want to feel His nearness as I live my life; I desire the Lord to hold my hand when I can't go on. I can't do it on my own; I can tell you that right now. I don't think I even want to try. My flesh wants to do without the Lord. My spirit wants me to draw close to Him whose love will comfort. I desire to live up to this blog's title: "Truly, how GREAT is HIS faithfulness."

2008 will be different for each and every one of us. Yet my journey isn't more important than yours. However, our prayer should be the same. "Draw me close to you....never let me go. You are the potter; I am the clay. Mold me and make me into the person you have for me to be. Turn my uncertainty into trust, unquestionable, undeniable, trust."

Off With the Old, On With the New

Today, my mother and I are taking down our Christmas tree. We shall not see it again until December of 2008. Also today, we are putting the curtain on 2007. Unlike the tree, this year will never be brought back. It is in the past forever. However, as I put it away, I would like to remember what I have experienced this year.



January~~The first month of the year found me celebrating much. I wrote about my parents' birthdays, the Broncos winning the Fiesta Bowl, and ushering in a new 2007 with my family and friends at Fellowship Baptist Church.



February~~I began learning lessons. As I grew one year older, I also grew in playing the piano for the Lord. Even though I still came out with a superior, God used my piano festival to strip aside some areas of pride. I had to content myself with something less....and be okay with it.



March~~Spring came, and with it, the reminder of newness. God reminded me that yes, winter comes, but not forever. Now, I look and see God's absolute sovereignty. He was preparing me for what lay ahead.



April~~I will say that 2007 with the year of lessons learned. I did the eventful hike to Soldier's Cap where I learned much. My dog, Nikki, had some seizures, and I went through some periods of doubting and confusion. Yet with it all, God was faithful! That was clearly evident with what Good Friday meant to me that year.



May~~I didn't post that much in May. Yet I did post about the Lord's protection as we were camping. (Oh, that was a trip I won't soon forget!)



June~~I began to experience my period of winter. Around the time I cleaned my closet, removing that which I had outgrown, God removed something I hadn't outgrown: my church family.



July~~In July, I began new things. I began cutting Dad's hair. I started my posts on femininity over feminism. And I began new horizons in regards to my writing. (Uncle Scott came for a visit too!)



August~~Thus began a difficult month. No longer having Fellowship Baptist Church in my life wounded me deeply. Yet I learned much about Christ's faithfulness. I also recognized that this difficult trial would only bring me closer to my loving Lord and His plan for me. Yet in the midst of pain, I had enjoyment. (With Dad and attending the fair.)



September~~ My family went away to Oregon and California on vacation. What a lovely time we had. After I returned, the Lord taught me more I needed to know. He showed me what a good friend I have several states away. He taught me that "doing hard things" is exactly what it is: HARD. God also taught me not to awaken love until the time was right.



October~~Family times mostly. Garrett and I created memories. And our entire family had fun times eating together ;-)



November~~I became very rebelutionary. I chronicled my views on teens and politics, teens and families, purity, and gave thanks to God. I also took in a Bronco game with Dad.

December~~Christmas came. I began my posts A Modest Carol. (Which will be finished in January. I do not think you or Mr. Dickens will mind!) And with December, I finish 2007. It was a good year. I cannot wait to see what God has in store for 2008. I pray that He will grow each and every one of us into who He has for us to be!

The Gardner's Christmas

I wanted to post something rather quick....just so you all would know what a lovely Christmas my family had. As we didn't spend the day with anybody, I didn't take pictures, so I am afraid you must deal with my words. ;-)

It was a nice, relaxing day. We did our traditional gifts to Jesus and our final Advent story first, like we always do. Then, we opened presents. Suffice to say, yes I did receive many nice things, including several for my hopechest. (And "Return of the Daughters" too.) We talked to both sets of grandparents before we ate our brunch. Now, this is different. In years past, we have gone to someone's house and had a big dinner. This year we shook it up. We had an egg casserole, fruit compote, and orange bread. It sure was yummy!

The afternoon we spent watching some of season 8 "Little House on the Prairie." And lastly, we ate cheesecake, made by me this year, and watched "It's A Wonderful Life." So, you see, it was a nice day, and I think we made God a big deal in all that we did. After all, we celebrate because of HIM!

Yesterday, Dad and I did our "every other year, if something decent is playing" trip to the movies. We saw National Treasure 2. (And just in case you are curious, aside from two low dresses and one unnecessary kissing for distraction scene, it was really good.) It was nice to spend time with him.

And today, I decided to spend some of my Christmas money and I bought several pieces of sheet music, one of which is "You Raise Me Up." My hope and prayer is that with all of my music, the Lord will use it mightily for His glory. That is why I play!

So, there you have it. This was a very minor weekend recap. I hope you all had lovely times with your family. I sure did! Posting...well, I will get back to "A Modest Carol" soon!

Merry Christmas!

From my family to yours, I pray that you all will have a very Merry CHRISTmas! As I will be rather busy for the next few days, "A Modest Carol" won't be resumed until after the holiday. Anyway, you will all be in my prayers and thoughts..and I hope your day will be wonderfully spent with family and friends, as mine will be. May we remember the True Reason for Christmas these next few days. God came...and He is coming again.

A Modest Carol, or The Ghost of Christmas Present

As was the case after the first appointed spirit, Emma was inclined to believe that her visit from Julie was all a hoax. Alright, she had gone somewhere just a little while ago, but that could have been a dream for all she knew. After all, Emma didn’t remember not falling asleep. With these thoughts, Emma glanced at the clock. Once more realizing that the second mentioned spirit was not there, she breathed a sigh of relief, and hurried herself off to bed.

Yet as she approached her bedroom, she saw a light on. Knowing that no one could possibly be in the room, Emma contemplated calling the police. However, it is best to mention that Emma let her curiosity got the better of her, and she opened the door. Just as she would have been quite unprepared to meet an intruder, she was also unprepared for the sight that met her eyes. Standing before her was another apparition. This time, it appeared to be a look-a-like of Monica, the angel from “Touched By An Angel,” complete with her heavenly glow.

“Why, Emma,” the spirit said. “Why do you just stand there? Come and let me get a good look at you. I have heard much of you.”

As Emma approached, for like with the first spirit, she could not imagine disobeying, she spoke coquettishly. “Well, who could you have heard about me from? Was it James, or perhaps Mark? No, it has to be Zach! He always raves about me!”

“You would be wrong on all accounts. Do I not bear a slight resemblance to a person who has already visited you this night? For a relative of mine came to see you—she calls herself the Ghost of Christmas Past. Do you recollect now?”

Emma spoke softly, all coquettish airs gone. “Yes, I do remember. You do not look alike, but since you are spirits….you are a spirit aren’t you?”

“I am the Ghost of Christmas Present, and I am here to show you Christmases of today. Like with my cousin eleven greats past, you will not be able to converse with any of the images you see. Rather, Emma, my purpose is to show you what people are saying, so that you might heed and learn.”

“Oh, gossip!!! I love that sort of thing. Tell me, will I be getting to see into the homes of all my friends? I would love some juicy tidbits.”

“We shall see,” the spirit said. “Now, touch my gown.”

Like with the first Ghost, Emma did as instructed. And yes, the same phenomenon occurred. Emma found herself transported out into the streets of New York City.

“Spirit!” Emma suddenly realized she was in her bathrobe. “What do you mean taking me out into the city without my being properly attired? What will people think?!”

“First off, you are not able to be seen,” the spirit said. “Second, is that all you think about, people’s approval I mean? And thirdly, why should you care if you were seen in your bathrobe? I know for a fact that you have paraded about this city with far less on many times.”

Emma was properly chastised, so much so that she remained quiet and let the Ghost of Christmas Present lead the way about town. In what only seemed like a few seconds, Emma found herself in the West Side.

“Why,” Emma exclaimed. “What are we doing here? I have no friends in this quarter. Indeed, it is not fit for a person of my social status to be here!”

“Watch,” the Ghost said, slightly fed up with Emma’s ego. “You do know who lives here, and she is thinking of you today. Come….”

Emma walked into the house. There was no point in knocking, for we know that she and the Ghost could be neither seen nor heard. It was a simply furnished house. It was not neat, nor was it dirty. It had the appearance of being happily lived in. As Emma glanced about, she saw Beverly Crump, the girl who always stopped her in the streets and spoke to her.

“Lord,” Emma noticed that Beverly was praying. “I lift up this day to you. I thank you for what it means, that you sent the gift of Your Son into the world. It was so undeserved, and that makes me all the more happier. I pray that you would bless our time with Aunt Viera…”

“Meredith Viera!!” Emma was shocked. “That girl’s aunt is the host of the Today show! Why doesn’t she flaunt that?”

“Why do you always feel compelled to flaunt what you have? Sometimes, things don’t need to be revealed, and that does not make us any less of a person.” The Spirit looked towards Beverly again. “Now, listen this time, without interrupting.”

Beverly had continued on with her prayer, for remember, Emma couldn’t be seen or heard. “If it isn’t too much to ask, please keep my aunt from badmouthing the way we live. I love her so much, and I really would like to avoid an argument. Lastly, I pray a special blessing for Emma. I hardly know her, Father, but I feel she is hurting. I think she is looking in places for happiness that will not give it. If only she would look to you! Minister to her, and get a hold of her heart somehow.” Beverly finished, and left the room, with a happy countenance and a light mind.

Long after her footsteps had ceased to echo, Emma still found herself in Beverly’s room. “She prayed for me?” Emma questioned. “Why? I certainly do not treat her right.”

“To Beverly, that doesn’t matter,” the Ghost said. “She has the love of Christ in her. It is a love that cares about all of her fellow human beings.”

“Well,” Emma harrumphed. “I do not need her prayers! I have plenty of other people who care. Show me someone else who isn’t praying for me…and yet loves me.”

With that, the Ghost did as Emma requested. Indeed, she was at the human’s disposal. However, the Spirit got to choose the destinations. This time, she picked a house that Emma knew quite well.

“My brother’s house was not what I had in mind!” Emma looked at the Ghost in disgust. “Why do you take me to places I do not wish to see?”

“You are taken here because you need to see him. You should know by now that you cannot shut out the past. You try to avoid your brother for some reason, a reason that you will not admit to yourself. Here, I will say it for you: you, Emma, are envious of your brother. You wish you had the type of happiness that he does…Is that not so?”

“Alright!!!” Emma yelled. “You are right. John has it altogether. He has a wife that adores him, he is expecting a baby, a nice house…I used to want that. But life changed for me, and I cannot get that now.”

The Ghost of Christmas Present had not heard the last sentence, for she had entered the house. Emma didn’t think she had any other choice but to follow, so that is what she did. As she walked in, she was greeted with memories, for her brother’s house looked just like her childhood home. Emma watched as her brother, sister-in-law, gathered around the table with several other guests. Before they all partook of the food, John, Emma’s brother, stood up.

“I want to thank you all for coming today. It is such a blessing! There is a person that is missing, and I wish she were here. My sister, Emma, had better things to do with her day and would not join us. I feel she has made a mistake, but it is her mistake. You all know the whole story about my sister and I; many of you know past hurts that she has inside of her. I just want to say that if any of you get a chance to minister a little bit of God’s love to her, it would mean so much to me. I pray for her daily, and I would love for you to as well.”

As John sat down, Emma heard a faint “hear, hear.” She glanced to see Brad, the boy who had jilted her, sitting between her nieces. Emma also heard her sister-in-law, Jen, say, "God bless, Emma, Father.” These two little tidbits went on unheard as John began praying for the food. After he finished, eating commenced.

“I….I,” Emma stammered. “I didn’t know John still felt this way. I assumed that as time went by, he would begin to despise me.”

“You underestimate your brother. Everyone at this table cares about you,” Ghost said. “Do you see a little bit of what you are missing?”

“Fine, I will give you that,” Emma said. “It looks like everyone is having a wonderful time, and my being there wouldn’t affect that in any way. However, what of my friends? I was going there after shopping, you know.”

Now, the Ghost knew the next stop would be painful for Emma, but she had to see it. So, she took her to where she requested. It was a house of revelry, of flirtations and immodesty, of loud music and dancing. Indeed, there was nothing to indicate the True Meaning of Christmas.

“Well, Emma isn’t here,” a girl said.

“What a shame! I knew she was going to wear an amazing outfit; that’s why I came.” This statement came from a guy named James, one who Emma had mentioned to the Ghost in the beginning.

“You can always count on Emma to please the eyes,” Mark said.

“That’s about it,” Zach said. “She is pretty ditzy, and if she didn’t flaunt her beauty, she wouldn’t be any good to be around. As it is, the party is fine without her. In fact, if Vanessa showed a little more, she would be a perfect substitute for Emma.”

Emma heard all this in a state of disbelief. “They feel this way about me?! I thought they liked me better than that!”

The Ghost stood back and looked at her. “They like you for the way you arouse them. They do not care about you as a person, or indeed as something to be treasure. They only view you like a child does a toy. They like it as long as it pleases them; when they outgrow it, or something better comes along, they will toss you aside.”

“NO!!!” Emma sunk to the ground in sobs. “What is to become of me?!”

“What indeed,” the Ghost questioned. “My time is done here. I must leave you now.”

“You cannot leave me here without one iota of hope!!”

However, the Ghost of Christmas Present was gone, leaving Emma where she stood…alone.

To Be Continued

A Modest Carol--Part 2, or The Ghost of Christmas Past

“Emmmmaaaa.”

Emma awoke with a start, convinced she heard her name. When she glanced around the room, and saw nothing, Emma assumed it was her body playing tricks on her once more. She was just at the point of acknowledging that she might need a doctor, when she happened to look at the TV.

“What Not to Wear” had been over for some time now, but the channel wasn’t TLC anymore. Rather, there was only a black screen, black as midnight. Yet standing there was a woman, if she could be called a woman. To Emma, she looked like a combination of Ma Ingalls and Missie Davis/ Lahaye/ Tyler.

“Emmaaaa.”

There it was again. This time, Emma had seen the screen character open her mouth as the words issued forth. “What…what do you want? Who are you?” She spoke with a quaking voice, for how would you like to see an apparition you knew absolutely nothing about?!

“I am the Ghost of Christmas Past. I am here to show you your past, in the hopes you will remember. Were you not expecting me?”

“Well, I was told that you were to come. Yet I did not believe or trust, though it looks like I must now. But honestly, how can you show me things that have already happened. Time travel doesn’t exist you know.”

“You analyze far too much. There is a thing called trust and faith. Sometimes, you have to believe a person without seeing. So, when I say that I can show you your Christmases past, I can show you your Christmases past. Now, our time grows short. Come to the screen and hold out your hand.”

Emma had never heard anything so unrealistic in all her 21 years of life. However, she did not want to find out the results for disobedience, so she did has the Spirit instructed. She approached the TV with a trembling footstep and held out a hand. All of a sudden, Emma felt her feet lifted from under her, her body sucked into the device in a flash of light, and then, all was darkness once more.

“Where are we? Have you killed me or something? I can sue you for this!!” Emma was about to launch into another tirade, until the darkness began to fade and she found herself in a room.

“Do you know where you are now?” The spirit asked.

Emma glanced about. She saw a beautiful evergreen tree, covered in tinsel, ornaments, and popcorn garland. There were presents under the tree, and a family was seated on the couch. They were reading a book and sipping hot chocolate. It was a lovely picture to behold. Emma knew the house, the living room, at once. It had been her childhood home.

“Why of course I know it!! I grew up here. There is Mom and Dad and John my brother…Hello everybody!”

“They cannot hear you. You are here to observe and remember. That is all.” There was a pause in the conversation until the Ghost spoke once more. “You all look so happy. Were all Christmases as happy as this one? Even though you didn’t have that much money?”

“Oh, yes they were. Mom and Dad always tried to make the holiday special. Some years were better than others present-wise, yet my brother and I always felt loved and cared for.” Emma paused a moment, remembering the times that had passed by, which was what the Ghost wanted.

“What book are you all reading?”

“Oh, you say it is Christmas. So, that would mean we were reading the Bible. Luke 2. It was a tradition; Mom and Dad made it a rule that we could not open presents until we read the Bible. Wait….who might that be?”

Emma’s last question had come from hearing the doorbell ring. She watched as her father got up to answer the door, returning in a little bit with grandparents and some family friends. It added to the already lovely picture.

“Now I remember this Christmas. It was the last one we had with mother before she….”

“Before she died,” the Spirit finished. “Yes, I know it is so, for let us see another Christmas.”

They never left the room, but sure enough the picture changed. Dad and John were downstairs talking and reading, just like the previous Christmas. Emma was not there, yet she was coming down the stairs just as the picture cleared.

“Emma, my dear,” Father said. “Where have you been this morning? You missed our Bible reading.”

“I know I did,” Emma harrumphed. “I have decided that I am old enough to make my own decision regarding faith. I do not want to be a part of anything that took Mom away from us. It is fine for you and John; it isn’t for me. I still love you and Mom, and I can even respect your convictions. I can’t personally anymore.”

The Ghost looked at Emma. “You really said that? Didn’t it sound like dishonor to you?”

“Of course it did,” Emma shot back. “I believe I had some valid points. I was sixteen that Christmas. I was a girl in the prime of life when she needed a mother. I didn’t have one anymore, so I made do the best way I could. I tried to forget some of the things Mom loved best, the main one being her faith. And I think I turned out fine.”

“Oh, really? Look at your father,” the Spirit instructed. He looks hurt and grieved, as does your brother. All they can do is look on you with sad eyes as you open all your presents, gather them up, and return upstairs, without even giving them the time of day. Their ears tingle with the sound of your door slamming shut as you change and even more so when you go out to the garage and start your car. You chose to spend Christmas with your friends, instead of your family.”

“Spirit, it is my own affair.” Emma got flushed all of a sudden. “I truly had a wonderful Christmas. My friends and I had a lovely dinner, and I met a lot of great people. One of which was Julie you know.”

“I know,” the Ghost of Christmas Past replied. “I also know from that Christmas you changed. Watch, as we jump in time two years. See the change that has come over you.”

Emma did as the Ghost instructed. She couldn’t do otherwise. She beheld herself as a young woman of eighteen. “I see no change, Spirit.”

“You don’t? Look at you. You treat your brother with no respect, as he and his fiancée try to persuade you to stay home this Christmas. Your father is ill, they say. But no, you refuse…hotly. You are dressing in what was the current fashion then, a tight red dress that shouldn’t be called a dress, but a shirt. You walk at the door with a swinging hip and far too much makeup. Do you notice your brother? He turned his eyes when you came down and did not look at the door until you closed it. Hear what he says.”

“Jen,” John sighed. “My mother would be heartbroken at how my sister has become. Mom always tried to teach Emma modesty, yet it looks like she has thrown that out, along with her faith. I love Emma so much; it hurts me to see her lower herself like this.”

“I never knew he felt that way,” Emma said to herself. “I always felt that he saw himself as a goody two-shoes, that he looked down upon me.” Yet aloud she said to the spirit, “Where was I in all this?”

Emma did not know that the Spirit knew what she was thinking. Yet the Ghost did not let on as she changed the picture. The two now found themselves in a room. It was loud and noisy. Girls were giggling far too much and there was nothing Christmas-keeping in the manner of the people. Emma saw herself, flirting with many guys until one came up to her.”

Emma’s heart filled with anguish. “NO, Spirit!!! Not this vision!! I beg of you not to show it to me!!”

“You created it. I only show what has already occurred.”

Emma watched as her younger self greeted the young man and the two of them went off to talk. Emma could she that she was expecting some usual actions and traditions, like a kiss or two, but none came.

“Merry Christmas, Emma.”

“The same to you, Brad. Are you not well today? You do not seem yourself; most assuredly, you do not act like it.”

“Oh, I am more than well. A joyous event has happened. The Lord got a hold of my life last week. He has changed me, indeed He has.”

Emma put on a form of mock happiness, “I am so happy for you, Brad.”

“Yes, well, it changes things you know…between us.”

“What do you mean?”

“Emma, I cannot act this way with you anymore. I feel that it is wrong to be kissing you for fun when we are not married.”

“Brad, what are you saying?”

“Emma, tell me honestly. If I had had Christ in my life when we first met, would you be so interested in me now? I do not think so. You are the same; I am different. I want something higher than just flirting and typical behavior. I want to be around a woman who shares convictions with me, who will dress in a way that honors me. Emma, when we first met, I will say that I loved the way you dressed. Now, I don’t. You dress for many men, Emma. Thus, I wholeheartedly believe that you will have no trouble finding another guy.” Brad paused and held Emma’s hand. “I care deeply about you, Emma. Not as a physical attraction anymore, but rather as a person. I wish I had known all I know now, so I wouldn’t have caused you all this grief. I cannot re-write the past, but I can change the future. So, I must leave, and we must go on with our lives. May you be happy in the life you have chosen.” With that, Brad left, and tears spilled from both Emma’s eyes.

“Spirit, remove me from this place. I beg of you to see no more. LEAVE ME ALONE!!!”

As Emma made a lunge at the Ghost of Christmas Past, the Spirit gave a parting piece of advice. “Remember Brad’s words, Emma. You cannot change the past, but you can change the future. You cannot run, no matter how much you try.”

Suddenly, all was silent. Emma found herself in her living room once more, the TV back on TLC. The clock struck one o’clock. Once more, the scheduled Ghost did not make an appearance…or so Emma thought.

To Be Continued

Traditional Holiday Baking

Our house has been filled with the smells of holiday baking. Peppermint, sugar, frosting....yummy. When I was getting a bunch of ingredients at the grocery store, in large quantities, I commented to myself the Christmas time is the only time when we can get away with eating like this. That is a good thing. My stomach can hate me enough as it is.



Yummy frosting and sprinkles. How can you not put them on sugar cookies?!


One of the many batches to come out of the oven.
This has to be my favorite cookie. I call it my Bronco cookie!! (Golly, I am becoming a sports nut!)
All done!!

A Modest Carol

Julie Matthews was dead. This should be strictly understood and grasped, or else what I have to relate will not be understood. The point remains that Julie no longer had breath in her body. On the occasion of her funeral, there was no one to mourn, no one to speak a eulogy, no one place to place flowers upon the casket. Not even her friend, Emma Smith, attended the event. Julie was placed into the ground quite unceremoniously and quite unloved.

Emma and Julie lived in New York City. Regular shoppers at Tiffany’s and Saks Fifth Avenue they were. Their reputation as the best dressers, the best bargain finders, and the best snobs preceded them wherever they went. Emma was actually the better known of the two, and she knew it. In all honesty, Emma liked that now she alone could have the spotlight and reputation.

The day of Julie’s funeral found Emma browsing Times Square. It was a dreary day, but it was made even drearier by the lack of fashionable clothes. What was fashionable? Well, it was anything that the current favorite actress wore. It did not matter the color, the style, the lowness, or tightness. In the middle of her frustration, Emma was interrupted.

“Good day, Emma. A Merry Christmas to you.”

It was Beverly Crump. Simply put, Emma didn’t like her. Beverly could never be considered stylish, and thus, Emma did not believe it was okay to associate with her.

“It is not a Merry Christmas. Due to this ridiculous holiday, the stores are sold out of everything good to wear. I have no appreciation and joy for a holiday that does this every 25th of December to me.”

Surely you don’t feel that way!! Christmas is a wonderful time, a time to remember others and the Savior’s birth. Don’t you have family with which to celebrate the holiday?”

“Humbug all of it! Of what importance is the Savior? I believed once, but I know better now. My sister-in-law invited me to come over, but I said no. I cannot afford to spend one day away from the stores, especially after a day like today. Good day to you.”

Emma stormed off in a huff. She turned her feet towards home, when she heard….”Emmmmmaaaa!” Emma looked towards the bright lights of Broadway, yet she saw nothing. “Pull yourself together, girl. You haven’t eaten all day; you are hearing things, courtesy of your low blood sugar.” Yet Emma was still apprehensive; she didn’t usually hear things when she didn’t eat lunch…or breakfast.

She walked up the stairs towards her apartment. Facing her was the knocker, a usual knocker you understand. Yet when she glanced at it, she saw Julia’s face. It faded just as quickly as it came. Emma quickly opened the door, quickly locked it, quickly ran to her room, and quickly locked it too. She anxiously laughed.

“Perhaps my doctor is right; I can’t go without eating. I will put in a frozen dinner right now.” She did so and sat down to eat, with “What Not to Wear” playing in the background.

Scarcely had she settled in to the sofa when “Emmmmaaaa” was heard again. Then, appearing on screen, was Julie Matthews. Emma saw her yet refused to believe her eyes.

“Emma,” Julie said. “It is I, Julie, your friend and shopping partner for the past 5 years. I have come to warn you.”

“You are not Julie. I had a coroner and an undertaker take care of you yesterday.” Emma suddenly became defensive, though she knew not why. “I have not eaten all day until just now. You are a new health phenomenon I haven’t experienced.”

“Do not be ridiculous! You have never had these before. I am real and I have come to warn you. See this chain that is bound to me?”

“It is a lovely chain, Emma. The store bags from all your favorite stores. Did you design….”

Julie let out a yell. “This is not a lovely chain; it is a ponderous one. I did design it, though if I knew what I know now, I would not have. My life has been a failure and all because of this chain.”

“Oh, you were not a failure,” Emma said compassionately. “You gave everyone the best fashion guides around, especially with your lustrous brown hair and sense of style. You could have easily been a model. You made clothing your business, beauty your business.”

“I should have had love my business! Christianity my business! Modesty and sisterly concern my business! I did not, and I cannot erase that!! But you can…and I have come to warn you. Unless you want the unhappiness and tight chain and life I am doomed to wear…HEED ME!!!!”

Julie spoke with such vehemence that Emma could only heed. “Alright, alright!! What must I do?”

“You will be visited by three spirits. The first will come at 12 o’clock, the second at 1 o’ clock. The third will come I know not when, but it will come. Be prepared and change.”

With that, Julie faded from the TV screen, and Emma slumped into a faint. She awoke at twelve by the ding of her clock. She remembered Julie’s words. “Ah, it is midnight, and nothing has happened. I knew she was a figment of my imagination.”

However, she was wrong. The aforesaid spirit made her appearance.

To Be Continued.....

So Sorry!

This post is going to be VERY short. I have a slight headache (due to the fact I have been gone since 9 am!) I am in the throes of writer's block....which would account for the fact that I haven't done good posts lately! However, rest assured, I am doing very well. =) Our house is set up for Christmas, we've been having seasonal music and movies playing, we have started our advent traditions....I ought to post pictures of it all. Actually, I plan to do a lot this year!

In the meantime, enjoy these past posts and pictures of this time last year! Since most of you are new readers, I thought you'd enjoy! Or to those who were around last year, perhaps you would enjoy my thoughts a second time:-) Goofing aside... I have been praying for you all, and I will TRY to write more soon. I hope you all are having a blessed holiday season, remembering Jesus is why we celebrate!

Setting Up
Christmas Party
Conversation Starter
Commercialism
The Most Important Gift
Christmas 2006 Memories

Garrett's 16 Favorite Things On His 16th Birthday

Today is Garrett's 16th birthday. Golly, they grow up so fast! =) I wanted to do something different to honor him today, so I want you all to know a little more about this very essential part of the family.

Favorite Color: Hunter green or orange

Favorite Food: Chicken and Nuggies. (Hard to explain....it's fried chicken in a cream of mushroom soup gravy over egg noodles. Yummy!)

Favorite Music Group/ Person: Brandon Heath

Favorite Movie: Rocketman

Favorite Book: The Strange Ordeal of the Normandier

Favorite thing to do: mess with wood and bass fish

Favorite Sport: Baseball

Favorite Baseball Team: Boston Red Sox

Favorite College Football Team: Florida Gators and Oklahoma State Cowboys

Favorite Vacation We've Been one: "All good in different ways."

Favorite Book of the Bible: Acts

Favorite Thing We Do As A Family: Watch World Series Games

One place you want to go before death: revisit Fenway Park or go to Moscow, Russia

Favorite Animal: Dog

Favorite Ice Cream Flavor: "Anything but straight vanilla"

Favorite Memory of Me and You: the times we play computer games

Happy Birthday, Garrett. I am glad that you are my brother!! I love you and I look forward to the new experiences we will have in the forthcoming year.

Trashing the Dress

Wedding dresses across America are being dunked in rivers, doused in pools, splattered in mud, and simply messed up--all in the name of a highly personalized new style of photography.

These pictures are making quite a splash. The trend is called Trash the Dress and photographers say it is sweeping Idaho and the rest of the country. For ages, brides cherished the dresses the marry in. But the times, they are a changing. Read Article (Outside Link)

When I saw this piece on my local news, I was stunned. Why are women doing this? Do they really think their wedding pictures will be attractive?

The fact that women are willing to do anything---even take a dip in the river--just because it is "fashionable" is sad. While people are willing to muddy their dress, the same can be said of purity. And yes, I can be just as guilty. The wrong thoughts, the flirting, how far we go physically...we are all putting a little mud on our future wedding dresses. We might not have thrown the actually stuff on ourselves, but white is the symbol of purity. When we sully it, it shall remain.

Something to think on. We wouldn't dream of going to the extremes featured in this article. However, when I have my wedding photos, will "mud" be seen on my dress? We all should be praying that God would help us to guard our hearts and minds so as to avoid this disaster!

~~I did this on ModesTeen (my other blog that I co-author) and I wanted to share it here!~~

My Thanksgiving To God

Amongst the turkey dinner, the times with family and friends, watching the Macy's parade, and sleeping, there is one detail that sadly gets overlooked. Today, people think Thanksgiving is just about these details. However, there is more to the day. While we should do it always, it is a day set apart to remember our blessings from our Loving Father. I desire to do just that; I realize how much I have been blessed this year.

First and foremost, I give thanks for the Lord himself. The fact that He has chosen me as His daughter is humbling enough. Yet over this past year, He has taught and revealed so much to me. I have had some low points, yet He has been there. He magnified Himself; He brought me to my knees with the knowledge I can't go on with Him. While this might sound odd, I am thankful for the opportunities that have arisen to grow closer to Him.

I am so thankful for where I live. The United States has his problems, but I am free. I can be homeschooled, read and study the Word, and I can vote for candidates that I want. That is something that I do not want to take for granted. I am also thankful for the hearth that I have to call my own, for the food to keep me full, and for fleece blankets to keep me warm.

My family is such a blessing. I can't imagine having any other. No, we are not perfect; we just try to live in a manner worthy and pleasing unto God. I have a special relationship with each of my family members. They are not same, and I am thankful for that. I have different memories for Dad, Mom, and Garrett. I love that. My family challenges me, loves me when I am unlovable, roots me on when I try something, and encourages me on the path less traveled.

The Lord has granted more than I ever thought in the friendship realm. I am thankful for the lessons I had to learn on the subject; I had to learn that no friends are better than the wrong ones. However, now I have several "sisters states away" who I can count on to pray for me. I have never met any of them face to face (hopefully, that will change) but I appreciate them anyway.

For the things taken for granted: the ability to play the piano, to walk and see, an education that opens my mind to new realms, the convictions that the Lord has given me....they are all important to me. Rather, they are God's, and I just praise Him for them.

Lord, I thank you for all of your blessings. I pray that I won't get caught up on what I don't have, but rather on what I do. You are good, far too good to me. I praise you! May your name be magnified this year, just as the Pilgrims sought to do so long ago.

Happy Thanksgiving, Everyone!! Oh, and yes, I am thankful for the little bit of snow we received yesterday. No, it isn't still here; in fact, it was gone by noon. However, it was such a nice surprise to come downstairs and see fluttering snowflakes. I am so thankful to live in a state that has seasons! Maybe, this year, I will get to be thankful for "a White Christmas!!"

For My Enjoyment, Not Necessarily Yours. I Mean, Do You Want Football Pictures?!

Dad and I on our way to the game. It was an "orange out," so I wore orange. Dad is too, by the way. It was supposed to be rainy; God blessed us from getting rained on! I love when it rains...just not when I am outside!

Our wonderfully unique blue playing field. We lovingly dumb it "the smurf turf" :-) (This was the view from our seats. Nice, huh?! I was extremely thankful to Dad's banker for them!)

Singing the National Anthem

The smoking helmet, out of which players appear

Even our governor, C.L. "Butch" Otter, had the same idea of going to the state rivalry game. He is the one on the end; his wife is next to him. Several other "illustrious" people were there too: the CEO of the Sugar Bowl and my favorite, several reporters from the best tv station in the valley, KTVB.

One of many Boise State touchdowns

The final score. Boise State is on the left. GO ORANGE, GO BIG BLUE, FIGHT! FIGHT! BSU !!! I had such a wonderful time with Dad. Yes, the game outcome was great, but the memories...those are far better!

Teens and Their Families

All you have to do is read my blog; I am not ordinary!! I take delight in things most teenage girls can't stand, and I dislike their likes...for the most part. One of these instances is that I absolutely love being around my family!! I don't mean to stereotype, but it seems that most people can't stand being seen with their parents, let alone do things with them.

Garrett and I are different. We take joy in the family memories we create. I have shared some with you. You know we enjoy the theme dinners, the family vacations, game nights and movie nights. We take pleasure in having parents as our best friends. Sure, we love being with peers, but when most of them don't live near you..... It is just a wonderful thing to have people you love near you ALL THE TIME. We aren't a perfect family; we can squabble and bicker. However, we thank the Lord for an extra measure of grace each and every day.

As I look at the majority of families, I see people out and about, but it is rarely with their parent. I am saddened by this. They are missing so much. There are memories to be made and found. I look at my schedule this weekend. I am out with Mom twice in three days. Tonight we are going to a Christmas open house at the tea room (with complimentary tea and desserts...always a good thing:-) Tomorrow is our normal Boise Philharmonic outing. Perhaps one day Dad and Mom will go, but I love hearing all of the music myself. For Saturday, I got the biggest shock of my life...and it will probably shock you too.

I bet you didn't think I enjoyed watching college football. Strike that, Boise State football. I mean, my blog is roses. I am a feminine girl; football is anything but feminine. Well, I am, and Dad surprised me with the news that he got tickets from a friend for Saturday's game...the last home one of the season, and it is the big state rivalry too. I am so excited, and I will definitely wear orange and blue.

The point to this post wasn't to brag about the things I do with my family. It was to show that I enjoy them. (Lest you think I don't care about my brother, I enjoy things with him too.) I have friends who have talked about their families of late, and I wanted to as well. This is just one of the many things I am thankful to my Father in Heaven for this day. It is a blessing that I do not deserve!

The Importance of...

Politics. It is one of those subjects that people are repulsed by. Most try not to think about; it is something left to big wigs and those who can do things. Me, I love the subject. I could never get involved in the arena; it is better left to men. However, that doesn't mean I can't love it! I read all about it, I have a tendency to stay up on election nights, and I pay attention to the returns. You all know; I posted about the election of 2006.

Ever since I was little, I have been "involved" in the process. I have been to polling places ever since I was two. Mom says I held a Bush/Quayle sign in 1992. I cannot remember that, but I believe her. As I got older, I look on with envy as she cast the ballot, wishing for my turn. I am not anxious to grow up, but voting next year....that will be exciting.

I realize I am in a category entirely by myself. Most young adults don't vote. I do not have the exact numbers, but I know that they are low! I have grown to recongnize that the ability to vote is an immense privlege. Other nations would die for this....and we have a tendency to take it for granted.

The Rebelution has encouraged teens to get involved, and I quite agree. That means something different for every one. Some are more active, working on the actual campaign and such. Others can vote. However, we all can pray!! Regardless of who you are going for in the next election, I would encourage you to do something. You might not agree with this statement, but I believe that if those who do desire God and righteousness don't rise up, we are doomed as a nation. We need to elect leaders who seek God's policies above their own.

Now, I live in a state where the candidate nomination is all but announced. It isn't who we are going for; guess who we are voting for? (Please don't come away with Hilary Clinton!) However, yes, I can feel that casting a ballot is absolutely pointless. I still will, though. I want to exercise my God-given freedom in some small way. This is how God can use me to impact the world. Who says young adults can't do things?!

A Blog of Note

I enjoy reading ya'lls blogs. To know what the Lord is teaching you, things that are going on your daily lives, I love it all. I pray that as you read mine, you are ministered to, and that you see Christ high and lifted up.

Well, I would like to direct your attention to a blog I think you would enjoy. It is my friend Jessica. As a few of you know, I did Homestead Blogger for a while; this is where I met her. Actually, Mom had gone on her blog and directed me to it. I am so glad that I did. Jessica is walking the path that I plan to, as she is a 20 year old young woman who is staying at home. I began writing to her, and that was the beginning.

I have enjoyed getting to know her, and I have been greatly encouraged by her writings. I think you all would be too. Her blog, What's a Girl To Do, will touch on home business, Seasons at Home Magazine (which her family puts out...and Mom and I write for,) recipes, and happenings in her life as the oldest of ten children. So, without further ado, I would read it...though you will only have a blank page for a few days!

I'd Rather Be Feminine Than A Feminist

I am following the 2008 election pretty closely. Strike that, I am keeping close tabs on Mike Huckabee's campaign. However, I know stuff about the other candidates as well. Hilary Rodham Clinton has received the endorsement of National Organization of Women (NOW) When she recived this, she proudly stated, "Yes, I am a feminist!"


Now, compare this to the movie, The Village. When Ivy asks Lucius how he can not be afraid of the dangers around, Lucius says that he is when he thinks of her in harm. He cares about her above all others and wants to keep her safe....and she doesn't protest or anything! In fact, she seems to appreciate it!



There is a big difference in these two women. One represents the nowadays woman, the one who wants to throw off the shackles of mankind. She desires to be in control. If there was danger, she would be the one sitting on the doorstep. The other girl represents women long ago, women who knew what it meant to be regarded and protected. She realized that men and women are vastly different...and that isn't necessarily a bad thing.



However, women like Ivy aren't very common nowadays. And I miss it. Like with the changing of dress, I believe what we have lost is irreplaceable. Due to the vast majority of women wanting to be in control, men don't step up to the plate anymore! They are willing to let women protect themselves, run politics, and abandon their God-given roles as wives and mothers.



Make no mistake, I do not hate people who are feminists. They are human beings created in the image of God. I find their policies off...but that is a different matter! I just wish they hadn't wrecked it for the rest of us, those who do desire men who are gentlemen. I do not mind being "branded" as the weaker vessel, especially if that means men open the door for you, men protect you, things like that.

I do not know how to communicate to guys that I want the old ways in this area of life. All I can do is pray. I can pray that men like Mr. Darcy's wouldn't be confined to fictional novels. I can pray that men like Peter Marshall would rise up. God would have to do a miracle to thwart the path we women are currently on...and he can! If you all desire a change, let's raise our voices to the One who hears! Maybe we can make things better for our children and future generations!

Intro, Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Conclusion

Of Fun and Formal Dinners

I know this is an extremely biased statement, but I think I have the best family in the world!!! I am so glad that I have been blessed to be a part of this family; I certainly did not deserve this gift from God. Anyway, one of the things I love best is the spontaneity we always seem to have.

I wrote in this post that Dad and I were going to do something, and I had zero idea what it was. Besides, it was on a Wednesday!! Well, he wound up taking me to dinner...at a fancy fondue restaurant. Now, at first I was nervous; I was only wearing my jean skirt. If I knew where we were going, I would have worn a nicer skirt. However, Dad set me at ease, saying I was dressed fine. (He was in jeans anyway.) From the cheese fondue with bread, fruits, and vegetables, to the meats with sauces and potatoes, to the finale of dark chocolate fondue with cheesecakes, macaroons, pound cake, and strawberries, I enjoyed a lovely dinner....though the stomach ache afterwards wasn't that comfortable! However, I loved the time with Dad more; he and I don't get to do things together as often as I would like. He made me feel special, doing something we have wanted to do for a long time. Coming home and watching Love's Enduring Promise was an added bonus.

However, life isn't all fondue restaurants. Most of our evenings are quiet dinners at home. We are all present, which is a blessing in and of itself. Yet, dinner can have a twist sometimes. Whether it be Silly Supper (where your food and utensils are disguised in the menu) or theme dinners, evenings like this are a treat. Well, of late, they have been frequent. If ya'll didn't know, it is baseball season, and I have a brother who loves baseball, especially the Boston Red Sox. So, as they have been in the ALCS and the World Series, a lot of our dinners have been in front of the tv. Mom has been very accommodating and has allowed this. In fact, she has used this time to shake things up. We have had hot dogs (or chicken hoagies in my case) french fries, peanuts and red rope...your typical baseball food. Clam strips and Boston creme pie have been eaten; I am sure you can guess why. Mom has even dressed up as a "green monster...." I will not post the picture, for her benefit. Needless to say, these times have been fun.

I pray you all are so blessed with a family relationship such as this. I would also encourage you all to shake your meals up. Find a theme, follow a sporting event with its food...just have fun making memories you will have for your lifetime!

A Good Read

Ever since I was little, I have loved to read. While I cannot remember it, Mom said my favorite in younger days was Minnie's Slumber Party. Now, I can be perfectly at home with a cup of tea and Pride and Prejudice or Little Women. However, I try to not have fiction be the only genre I read. Yes, there is A LOT of good out there, which gives me an excuse to read many classics next year, as opposed to reading college textbooks.

Well, the book I absolutely enjoyed this time was in the biographical genre. Normally, I read those when the family does, like during our morning school time. I also read biographies that are required, like Stalin and Hitler have been. I am shamed to confess that I don't choose biographies with one exception....or rather two. I did that Ronald Reagan research paper, and now, I have read A Man Called Peter.

Wow! Talk about a phenomenal book! I believe by chapter one I was engrossed in the life of this man. I haven't been clueless about him. In fact, it was his stand on womanhood that drew me to know more. As I finished the book this weekend, I came away with a greater respect for this rather unknown man...and the desire to buy the book for many future readings.

I just wanted to share some of his words, put down in this book by his wife, Catherine. Some made me laugh while convicting me, others made me get excited. Perhaps they will for you too.

"You know how a gardenia's petals reveal any telltale fingermarks by turning brown. Your lives are like that. Purity is like that...Young people, don't give anything to the world to destroy. Don't be ashamed of high ideals, dreams, and beautiful thoughts."

"I believe that womanhood has been definitely lowered by equality with men. For nineteen centuries woman was revered and respected and on a higher plane than man."

"Help us do our very best this day and be content with today's troubles, so that we shall not borrow the troubles of tomorrow. Save us from the sin of worrying, lest stomach ulcers be the badge of our lack of faith."

"I learned that with God's help, with God standing beside us in the midst of trouble, we can bear anything and come out victorious."

"We human beings can never deserve any of God's good gifts..that when we do the best we can, our best is still not good enough to merit anything from the Lord. We can get nothing and deserve nothing except simply by grace through faith."

Anyway, I wanted to share these with you today. They spoke volumes to me! I have a lot to fill you in on regarding family things....but that is another post for another day! My prayers are with you this day!

Back To School

Today is my last day of "summer" vacation. Where the time has gone, I have absolutely no idea. It has been great fun...especially having the alarm clock off. However, it is back to waking up with the alarm clock and to the books. I wanted to give ya'll a run down of all that I have looking at me this year. I don't know if being a senior has anything to it, but there just seems to be a lot!

Let's See....my math will continue to be Abeka's Consumer Math. I didn't get it quite finished last year. I will be honest, I have enjoyed not doing calculus:-)

English/Spelling/Grammar/Composition/Literature will also continue to be done with Total Language Plus. That has been my material for several years, and I heartily enjoy it. This year, my books will be The Scarlet Letter, Jane Eyre, and short stories by authors like O Henry and Edgar Allan Poe. I am looking forward to some more than others. (I have found Poe VERY morose and depressing.)

History and Geography will be Beautiful Feet, as it has been for several years. Due to where I ended last year, I will be starting at The Great Depression and going past Vietnam. So, some more book titles will include: To Kill A Mockingbird, The Diary of Anne Frank, The Story of the Von Trapp Singers, and many others. Again, I do not relish some....would you like to be reading biographies on Hitler and such? I am trying to remember that I cannot live in the American Revolution and The Civil War; these former events are ones that have shaped the world today.

I am doing Government this year and also Economics. What curriculum I will be using I don't remember. I am really excited to do Government; it absolutely fascinates me!! Though it depresses me too when I see how far we have strayed from God.

Science and Logic will also remain the same as last year. I am so glad that we have found something that works for science....and that I can understand it! :-) Logic is a great deal of fun. When we first began, I got so exasperated when I couldn't figure out the puzzle right away. Yet as we have worked on them more, we have increased in difficulty, which is a very rewarding feeling.

I cannot forget Bible, which is the most important subject we can focus on. Yes, Garrett and I each do our own quiet time, but we do it corporately as well. This year, we are going to be reading through the New Testament using the ESV Bible.

That is to be the bulk of my subjects this year. Now, if you take in to consideration that I still have piano lessons, going to the Dysktra's, HopeChest and Seasons at Home writing, working on a book with Erin, 3GWoodworks "stuff", sewing, keeping in touch with friends across the U.S., spending time with family, all without losing sight of the Lord getting the glory, I am really busy!!!! However, I am so glad that I can do these things from home, and that God has given me each blessing. Yet for now, I will enjoy the few hours I have left of my break. I will be doing something with Dad tonight, but he is keeping it a surprise. I will have to let you all know what it is, and how school begins, soon!!

In 10 Minutes, My Day Went Bad!

My day was great up until that minute. I had done HopeChest work, I had been able to get up, do my Bible, exercise on the stationary bike we got (for twenty minutes...or four miles:-) and practice my piano. I felt so happy!!

So, I had a free minute, and I opted to make a jelly roll cake for dessert yesterday. I go to put eggs in the bowl, and what should I find but....uh.....words cannot even describe it. (And for your benefit, I will not post a picture, which is worth a thousand words, that Garrett took. He did it for the company rep, who is very interest in our find.) My guess it would be a chicken, a partly formed chicken. I was so grossed out, my stomach began to get tied up in knots, and I had to get away from the bowl for a minute. Thankfully, I had only cracked one other egg, so that was all I lost. Needless, I had Mom crack the rest of the eggs. (I know it, I am terrible!) And to be honest, that event didn't make the cake taste that wonderful. Plus, Garrett made chicken noises every time I brought the fork near my mouth:-)

Alright, so the cake is baking, and Mom is in the kitchen with me. She turns over the CBD catalogue we had received in the mail, and she says, "Oh, so and so's husband dies." I had already looked at the catalogue before, but I didn't investigate the back. (Normally, there isn't much of interest.) Sure enough, she was right. In one of my favorite videos, a character I liked is dead. Many of you like this particular thing too. So, if you care to be depressed and sad, feel free to read here. That said, I will still watch it, and probably love it, which means I will by it. However, why did the writers take the story line this way?!

So, yeah, that was my day last night. Terrible, just terrible! Wouldn't you agree?

Missing Something

It is no secret what my favorite movies are. I rave about Pride and Prejudice, Emma, Sense and Sensibility a lot. I felt compelled to mention Love Comes Softy and North and South here on the blog. Give me the choice between Anne of Green Gables and the latest "romantic comedy" and I will definitely choose the former. Overall, I just love girly movies...but that wasn't what this post was to be about.

There is something about these "timeless classics" that appeals to me. Do you know what it is? I could let you guess, but I am not:-) The way the women dress and act stirs up a feeling inside of me. It is a feeling that, if I could go back to those days, I would. Now, I know there are a lot of bonuses in this century. However, they pale in comparison to what we have lost.

I remember when I watched North and South particularly, an "object lesson" came to mind. Margaret, the main character, was at this fancy dinner party, wearing a slightly revealing dress. Her dress did not communicate, "Look at me and what I have." Rather I believe she was stating, "This dress doesn't state all about me. I have a sensible head on my shoulders, I can lovingly serve my mother and father, and I want you to get to know the real me." And in that scene, the main guy, Mr. Thornton, doesn't look at what is revealed; he looks at her face the entire time.

Now, think of what we have now. In supermarket aisles, we are bombarded with images of Hollywood actresses revealing anything and everything it seems. Always, the women are wearing cleavage showing, leg showing, form fitting clothes. And it communicates, "Oh, don't you wish you had me and what I have." These attitudes absolutely sicken me....and they are everywhere. You get it on tv, with such shows as "Dancing With The Stars." (I don't watch it; I just hear about it.) Movies and commercials now cater to this way of living. Even secular music covers aren't exempt.

What has gone wrong? You can't blame it on the changing fashion world. Even in Jane Austen's day, there were low dresses. (Granted they were not quite as low.) So, what is the deal? I believe it is the attitudes that have been to blame. We are human, after all. That said, I wish we didn't have the battles regarding dress that we do now. No longer do dresses and skirts communicate feminine or "I am a girl;" they communicate being sexy. People feel that they have to degrade themselves by revealing themselves in order to catch a guy. Wrong! Though they are fiction, every single movie I watch has the girl coming out victorious...and the guy isn't some nerd, either.

Those of us who long for the days gone by have a difficult road ahead. I cannot even imagine what will be "in" when I have a child. However, I will train her that God had something higher in store for us....and it is our job to do it. It might be wearing longer skirts and higher necklines as everyone looks at us with shocked faces. It might mean staying away from current romances, for honestly, is that the kind of relationship we want for us or them? Being regarded as feminine wasn't considered wacky up until recently. With God's help, let's try to bring it back. Let us not only look like women, but be willing to go against the trendsetters for the sake of our Christian brothers. Let's have our dress say, " I am a girl. I am a Daughter of the King, one who is highly regarded. There is more to me than my body. Focus on that. Only one guy will get that former part of me."

Intro, Part 1, Part 2, Part 3

One Way to Show Love to Your Sibling...Play Football:-)

Until the Lord decides otherwise, I only have one sibling. Garrett and I are relatively close in age, approximately eighteen months apart. When we were younger, we used to be at each other's throats. I would be lying if I said everything was picture perfect now; it's not. We both are human, and we both have this little annoying thing called "flesh." However, by God's grace and strength, we are getting better.

Lately, I have been trying to find ways to honor, serve, or please him. It isn't always easy to come up with. Whereas my love language is quality time, with gifts and encouraging words as close seconds, Garrett doesn't quite have one that I can lay my finger on. Yet I have discovered three ways.

First, I appeal to his appetite. What teenager doesn't like food? I always try to have yummy treats in the house on a weekly basis. It might mean dessert with dinner or cookies out of the blue. Regardless, I can plan on the stuff being gone a few days later,

Second, I wear pants every once in a while. Predominantly, I wear skirts. I find them more comfortable and feminine. (Yet I also know limitations with them. When biking, hiking, or some other activity is planned, I wear pants/capris for modesty.) That said, Garrett prefers pants. So, about once or twice a week, I wear them...knowing full well that he will say, "Nice dress code today!"

Lately I have discovered the third way to make my brother happy. I play the computer with him. Okay, you might think that isn't a great way to spend time, and granted, you are right. However, Garrett likes it....A LOT! So, today, even though I had HopeChest Magazine work to do, and I had A Man Called Peter on my nightstand, I played anyway. I will confess that at first, I did it a bit half-hearted, yet it got fun!

The game we play is football. I can't play any of the other ones we have!! (I guess when it comes to electronic gadgets, I would rather put a movie in the DVD player.) I do like playing football. I am always one particular team; Garrett switches every now and then. So, take a guess at who I was? And you can laugh at the score all you want...our defense really did exist:-)

So, I would encourage you all to find ways to lift your siblings up. Sure it isn't easy. I mean, I have a desk "littered" with articles that need judged. However, I also realize that that isn't as important as cultivating a relationship that I will have for the rest of my life. God has shown me that my brother can be a lot of fun!