Phew!!!!

Ok....we're finished with our 6th season of 24. We actually finished the night before last, but I needed a day or 2 to recover. I'm now free to start reading Quaker Summer, and Wyatt is contemplating coming up with a Jack Bauer Study Bible. See you in the New Year!

Vacation

This weeks blog articles will not been written due to our annual "24 Marathon." Wyatt and I do not watch 24 every week. That would require a degree of consistentcy of which we are not capable. Instead, we choose to wait until the latest season is released on DVD. Then we binge, watching 3 or 4 (or sometimes more) episodes a night until we are finished. We pretty much become anti-social during this time (not a big leap) and do very little of our usual social activites. Please log on next week when we return to our regularly scheduled life.

Bert! Whadda ya know about that???

Meanings of the Twelve Days

You learn some pretty neat things when you read your email and e-newsletters! This has been sitting in my inbox for awhile now. It's about the 12 Days of Christmas and I thought I'd share it with you. Enjoy!


Meanings of the Twelve Days

Day 1 - Partridge In A Pear Tree
Christ who died on the Cross for our sins

Day 2 - 2 Turtle Doves
Old and New Testaments

Day 3 - 3 French Hens
Some sources say-- Three Gifts of the Magi: gold, frankincense, and myrrh
Others say-- Faith, Hope, and Charity (the theological virtues)

Day 4 - 4 Calling Birds
The Four Gospels, Matt, Mark, Luke & John

Day 5 - 5 Golden Rings
The first five books of the Old Testament, known as the Torah or the Pentateuch: 1) Genesis, 2) Exodus, 3) Leviticus, 4) Numbers, and 5) Deuteronomy.

Day 6 - 6 Geese a Laying
The six days of Creation

Day 7 - 7 Swans a Swimming
The seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: 1) prophecy, 2) ministry, 3) teaching, 4) exhortation, 5) giving, 6) leading, and 7) compassion
(Romans 12:6-8; cf. 1 Corinthians 12:8-11)

Day 8 - 8 Maids a Milking
The eight Beatitudes: 1) Blessed are the poor in spirit, 2) those who mourn, 3) the meek, 4) those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, 5) the merciful, 6) the pure in heart, 7) the peacemakers, 8) those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake. (Matthew 5:3-10)

Day 9 - 9 Ladies Dancing
The nine Fruit of the Spirit: 1) love, 2) joy, 3) peace, 4) patience, 5) kindness, 6) goodness, 7) faithfulness, 8) gentleness, and 9) self-control. (Galatians 5:22)

Day 10 - 10 Lords a Leaping
The 10 Commandments

Day 11 - 11 Pipers Piping
The eleven Faithful Apostles: 1) Simon Peter, 2) Andrew, 3) James, 4) John, 5) Philip, 6) Bartholomew, 7) Matthew, 8) Thomas, 9) James bar Alphaeus, 10) Simon the Zealot, 11) Judas bar James. (Luke 6:14-16).

Day 12 - 12 Drummers Drumming
The Twelve points of doctrine in the Apostles' Creed:
1. I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth,
2. And in Jesus Christ, his only begotten Son, our Lord,
3. Who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary,
4. Suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead and buried; He descended into hell.
5. The third day he rose again from the dead;
6. He ascended into heaven, and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty.
7. From there he shall come to judge the quick and the dead.
8. I believe in the Holy Spirit,
9. I believe in the holy catholic church, the communion of saints,
10. The forgiveness of sins,
11. The resurrection of the body,
12. And the life everlasting. Amen.

First Corinthians 13: Christmas Version

If I decorate my house perfectly with plaid bows,
strands of twinkling lights and shiny balls,
but do not show love to my family,
I'm just another decorator.

If I slave away in the kitchen,
baking dozens of Christmas cookies,
preparing gourmet meals and arranging
a beautifully adorned table at mealtime:
I'm just another cook.

If I work at a soup kitchen,
carol in the nursing home,
and give all that I have to charity;
but do not show love to my family,
it profits me nothing.

If I trim the spruce with shimmering angels
and crocheted snowflakes,
attend a myriad of holiday parties
and sing in the choir's cantata
but do not focus on Christ,
I have missed the point.

Love stops the cooking to hug the child.
Love sets aside the decorating to kiss the spouse.
Love is kind, though harried and tired.
Love does not envy another's home
that has coordinated Christmas china and table linens.

Love does not yell at the kids to get out of the way,
but is thankful they are there to be in the way.
Love does not give only to those who are able
to give in return; but rejoices in giving
to those who cannot.

Love bears all things,
believes all things,
hopes all things, and endures all things.
Love never fails.

Video games will break,
pearl necklaces will be lost,
golf clubs will rust,
but giving the gift of love will endure.

--Author Unknown

More Love

Check out my awesome brother-in-law's article on love.

Kidney Donor

Check it out. This is love.

Whose Birthday Is It, Anyway?

Yes, it's Christmastime and here we are once again amidst the battle of those offended by Christ in Christmas and those offended by Santa. Without getting into a big fat ugly mess, consider this: Who do you celebrate on your birthday? Who is your birthday all about? OK. There you go. Now, will some people show up for your party not because of you, but because they like the idea of cakes, and gifts and songs, games and big fun? Well, probably not, but for the sake of argument, let's say they do. Is there really anything they can do to make it NOT your birthday? No. There isn't. They can pretend it's just another ordinary day. They can act as if they are surprised that you and others are there for your birthday. They may truly not give a rip about you and only be there for the party. Maybe they're there just to enjoy the birthday clown. They may even act offended that you would be so bold as to claim your birthday is about you, and not the clown. (GASP!The audacity!) But honestly folks, at the end of the day, whose birthday is it?

So, while I really and truly enjoy Santa as much as the next person, Christmas is about Christ. Period. Sorry if that offends you, it's the truth. And while I would love for the whole world to truly remember Christ and focus on Him, Santa is not evil. Again, sorry if that offends you.

Anyway, Merry Christmas. Be blessed and be nice. Love each other, for crying out loud! Go to church, give a gift, have a party, drink some eggnog, do whatever it takes, just lighten up and be NICE!

Christmas Elves!

Take a few minutes to laugh to day and go to www.elfyourself.com. My college roommate sent me an elfed greeting and it is hilarious!!! Merry Christmas and have fun.

Gladys Aylward

There are so many great missionaries to write about, but one of my favorites is Gladys Aylward. She was a missionary to China, and led about 100 Chinese children through the wilderness (during a war) to the Yellow River. If you don't think that is just awesome, try leading 5 children through walmart. Anyway, Ms. Aylward's faith and love for the children of China made such an impact on the Mandarin that he converted to Christianity. Try the book The Little Woman by Gladys Aylward and Christine Hunter. Or, if you're not a reader, check out the movie The Inn of the Sixth Happiness with Ingrid Bergman.

The Boy Who Cried "Sick!"

OK. I had to pick up Wyatt Henry from school yesterday. His teacher called me and said he was complaining of a stomach ache and that he didn't look good. When I picked him up, he did look a little pale and was acting pretty lethargic. We pulled over twice on the way home because he thought he might throw up.(but he did not) When he got in the house however, he made a miraculous recovery almost instantly! He remained in good health for the rest of the day. At bedtime, he said his stomach hurt. I gave him antigas medicine and sent him to bed. He slept fine all night, and got up saying his stomach hurt. He was fine through breakfast, got dressed and was off to school. No fever. Looks fine. Yet here he is, back home with me. He told his Dad he did't feel well and now he's home, on the couch. He is extremely congested and his tonsils are huge. He's acting fine and doesn't have a fever. He's offended (of course) at the suggestion that he might not be so sick. He occasionally complains of a stomach ache, but for the most part acts fine. Of course, he was acting fine on Friday night when he went to the football game where he threw up in the bleachers. Sooooooo... anyone want to call it?

All I Really Want for Christmas

My girlfriend Elysa has this video on her blog. I couldn't help myself...get your tissue box ready.

What??? No "Faith Seed"?

In the age of money-hungry TV Evangelists, it's so refreshing to read these words penned by Corrie ten Boom in her book Tramp For The Lord.

The people in America seem to think that I should not hesitate to ask for money for my ministry, which supports other ministries such as Bible and book translations in many parts of the world. However, from the very beginning of my ministry I have felt it was wrong to ask for money-even to ask for travel expenses. I did not want to be paid for "services rendered." I simply wanted to preach the Gospel and let the Lord provide for me.

She goes on to tell of a time when she felt the Lord had not wanted her to accept a check for a large sum of money, and how the giver of the check was greatly offended and stormed out of the room. When her speaking engagement was finished, Ms. ten Boom returned to her room and prayed as she wondered...

Was it wrong to speak of my own work while at the same time I urged people to be converted or to forgive their enemies? Was it wrong to listen to these Americans who were urging me to receive collections for my ministry?The answer was very clear from the Lord. "From now on you must never again ask for money." Great joy entered my heart and I prayed, "Heavenly Father, You know that I need more money than offer before. But from this day on I shall never ask for a penny. No guarantees before I come to speak. No travel expenses. Not even a place to stay. I will trust in You, believing that you will never forsake me."

Did you catch that? Here, let me write that again:

The answer was very clear from the Lord. "From now on you must never again ask for money." Great joy entered my heart..." (emphasis mine)

Is that not incredible? We're not talking about a millionare here, folks! These are the words of a woman who was thrown into a Nazi work camp when she was in her fifties and came out with NOTHING! No cash, no home, nothing. Yet, the Lord didn't tell to her to ask people to sow a "faith seed" into her ministry. No love offering. Hm. Interesting.

Years after her release, Ms.ten Boom returned to Germany to minister to those who had imprisoned her and her family. She was an amazing woman, a true servant, and her sister Betsy was such a picture of Christ. If you've not read anything by Corrie ten Boom, you need to check her out. Start with "The Hiding Place."

Quarantine Update

Now it's Wyatt Henry. Bless his heart, his has an ear infection and got sick while out with his aunts and uncles and grandparents. :-( So, we are back on Puke Patrol. But we are armed with antibiotics and know that the ear infection is the culprit, so we shouldn't be unclean for much longer. I hope.

p.s. Make that Lizzie and Wyatt. She also is throwing up. Our house is a solid "10" on the Vomitron.

YouTube - Jenna Bush on Ellen

I don't watch Ellen, but I did see this clip yesterday on Yahoo! and thought I'd share!

YouTube - Jenna Bush on Ellen

Christmas Poem

Here is a Christmas poem to remind you of the serenity that remains under the chaos.
It was written by a girlfriend of mine from Massachusetts. Thanks Trina, for sharing this with me!


It is twelve twenty-five - Peace blankets the earth

We stop for a moment to celebrate His birth
A calming sensation surrounds our souls

And for just that instant we feel unconditionally whole

A smile we shine a breadth our face

We see what we missed in all our haste

A love no greater has penetrated through
Dear Lord my only words - Thank you

by Trina Jones-Rudolph

MIA

We're still battling the puke fest around here. Just when I thought we were in the clear, Abby hit me with a projectile vomit sneak attack. The damage was devastating.
Anyway, that's why I've been MIA. But I'll be back!

Bittersweet Update

Alas! Our phone is out again. This is somewhat frustrating, yet rather pleasant. In the few short hours our phone did work, it rang just about non-stop. (ok, slight exaggeration) These calls came while my youngest baby was crying VERY loudly because she was sick to her stomach. So, although it is wonderful to hear from a beloved friend or family member, I welcome the peace and quiet of "no phone" today. If you do call, you can leave a message because somehow our voicemail does work. I will use my cell to check messages throughout the day. However, please don't try to reach me on my cell, since I don't get reception in the house and will have to run outside to answer the phone. This gets old after awhile, especially with 2 sick babies. Which brings me to yet another update/warning. We are UNCLEAN!!Those of you with sensitive immune systems (and you know who you are) best avoid our quaint little cottage until the quarantine has been lifted. Merry Almost Christmas!

P.S. Now the phone is working and the voicemail isn't so.....good luck to ya!

Today's Summary

When an infant vomits, there's really nothing you can do but aim it away from you and hope it doesn't hit another child.

Today...

Today can be summed up in 4 words:

"Diarrhea in the tub."

Need I say more?

Mississippi Girl!

Well, it may be a long way to Star, Mississippi for Faith Hill, but for me it's just a drive down the road. And now, I can make that drive legally, (as long as I'm not in my van) because I FINALLY got my Mississippi driver's license. Yay me! It only took me...ummmmm 2 years? Yes, 2 years and 2 months. Unfortunately, I had to surrender my Texas driver's license to get my Mississippi one. Sad. I love Texas. I loved living there and now I love being from there. Although I was born up north, when I'm asked where I'm from, I always answer, proudly, "Texas!" And I liked having a Texas DL to back that up. Now, I have nothing. But hey, Mississippi is good. It's very good, actually. I live in the woods here, on a lake. In Texas, I lived in Dallas.....YUCKY!!!! Actually, it was Richardson, a suburb of Dallas, but still.....yucky. When I lived in Texas, we had to drive 8 hours (at least) to get to Aunt Sue's for Christmas or to Kevin's for Thanksgiving. Now I drive across the lake...1 minute, baby! Plus, I love Small Town USA. I grew up in a small town...it's not too small anymore, though. Florence is small. It's rural. It's awesome. Florence is also closer to Nashville and The Smokey Mountains, my very favorite vacation places. While living in the very great state of Texas, one of my favorite commericals on the radio said, "I'd rather be a fence post in Texas than the King of Tennessee". Well, I do like Tennessee. And I still love Texas. But I must say that I would rather be a fence post in Florence than the King of Dallas. Yucky!

So, How Was Your Day??

I hope everyone had a good day today. But just in case someone didn't have a good day and needs a laugh, let me tell you about my day. My first mistake actually took place last night when stayed up past midnight reading, knowing I would have to get up at 5:30. pfh! Needless to say, I got up late. After my sweet husband brought me coffee in bed, I dragged my sorry self up and into the living room. I don't really remember how the morning went, so I guess nothing terrible happened. Some time in the late morning my mother in law called and asked if she could pick up Wyatt H from school and take the older 3 kiddos to the movies. Sure! Except she's not on the "ok to pick my child" list since she lives in Petal. So, on my way to run my errands, I stop by the school to give her security clearance. After that I'm off to get my Mississippi driver's license...finally. Except I when I get to where I thought I was supposed to go, I find that the office has been moved. I'm told by a man in the parking lot that I need to go to Whitfield. (no surprise there!) He says the office I want is somewhere near the correctional facility. Ok, so I'm off towards Brandon. Except I miss the exit for 20 and somehow end up going back towards Florence on 49S. (still not sure how that happened) Anyway, I check the time and decide since I have to back home within an hour, I would skip Whitfield and just get my haircut. Well the first place I go to can't fit me in till 2:00. Not good. So off I go to another place. This place had no wait, which should have been warning number 1. But no, not for me. "Just a bob, same length all the way around", I tell the hairdresser. She got started and I kept watch to make sure she didn't go Scissorhands on me. All looked fine. Of course, I don't have eyes in the back of my head, and that is where I needed them today. Apparently, "same length all around" means "just hack away" to the hairdresser. All I will say is that I had to take matters into my own hands when I got home, and strangely enough, I did make some improvements. At this point my headache returns, so I take some medicine and make some coffee. I decide I will blog a bit to take my mind off what used to be my hair. First I checked my email. I then unsuccessfully try to post a simple logo on my blog. I try this many times in several different ways before I send up a signal for help from a trustworthy friend. I confess to her that I am somewhat computer challenged, and as if to drive the point home, I send the email off to not only her but my entire yahoo homeschool group. At least 50 people. She graciously offers to help me so I email her my password. Her and the 50 other people in my yahoo homeschool group. Because why would you only want to make that mistake once? Shortly after that little trick, my son came to me crying and asked me to pray for his hurt nose. "Now this I can handle", I think to myself. I then proceed to Thank God for Sammy and ask Him to heal Sammy's nose. Except Ben is the child in pain. Now he's also offended. Thankfully my husband is on his way home now so it won't be long before I get into bed before I make another brilliant move. My sister in law invited me to a spa party tonight, and I sure could use it. But considering my track record today, the last thing I need to be doing is driving across a lake to her house.

The Mist and All by Dixie Willson

I like the fall,
The mist and all.
I like the night owl's
Lonely call-
And wailing sound
Of wind around.

I like the gray
November day,
And bare dead boughs
That coldly sway
Against my pane.
I like the rain.

I like to sit
And laugh at it-
And tend
My cozy fire a bit.
I like the fall-
The mist and all.

Jeremy Lee Roberts

A year ago today, my husband's youngest brother passed away. He was only 26 years old. We all miss him terribly. Here are some photos of Jeremy. Please be in prayer for his parents and siblings today.

Here is Jeremy and my father-in-law at our wedding.



This was taken about 5 years ago. Jeremy is wearing his favorite Abercrombie sweatshirt.


Here is Jeremy (and siblings and Dad) in younger days.

Too Much of A Good Thing??

Can you read to your children too much? Well, a few days ago I would have answered "NO!" very confidently. Now, I have to wonder. This morning, my 2 year old son was making a puzzle. He apparently came to a difficult piece and asked for help, saying, "Help me, help me, I cried!" Hmmmmmmmmm....

What's up with THAT?

Lately I've been making alot of beaded jewelry. I've really enjoyed it, although I am concerned by one little oddity. I often times am tempted to taste my creations. I recently made a pink and white bracelet that reminded me very much of cream savers candy. In fact, it looks so good, I've decided I need to buy it and keep it for myself. Last night I made one with beads that look like Root Beer Barrells, and last week I made a very juicy looking orange bracelet. I think I need help.

FALL BAAAA-AAACK!!!!!

Yay!!! Yet another wonderful thing about Fall....the end of daylight savings time. My second favorite night of the year. Don't forget to set your clocks back AFTER the kids go to bed tonight. HAPPY FALL Y'ALL!!!

Kicking off Christmas

Yes, I know, it's still a little early to be doing Christmas activities. We've still got a month and a half to go, right? Well, if you're anything like us, you know that it's really never too early to start thinking about Christmas. One of the things I've been thinking about is what to put in my Operation Christmas Child shoebox this year. This is only our second year participating in this project and we just LOVE it! You bascially fill a shoe box with toys and bring it to a drop off point in your area. The fine folks at Samaritans Purse take it from there, and your package makes its way to a child that otherwise wouldn't be getting anything for Christmas. BUT, next week is your last week to get your filled box to a drop off point. So, what are you waiting for???

Autumn by Emily Dickinson

The mourns are meeker than they were,
The nuts are getting brown;
The berry's cheek is plumper,
The rose is out of town.

The maple wears a gayer scarf,
The field a scarlet gown.
Lest I should be old fashioned,
I'll put a trinket on.

Give Away!!!!

You can win this bracelet! Find out how!

Make a Wish!!!

Today we celebrated Wyatt's 8th birthday!!! Present were Mammaw, Pappaw, Uncle Russell & Aunt Marla, Mom & Dad and all the siblings, and Wyatt's friend Taylor. A good time (and a good amount of cake) was had by all. Up next, the "friends" party.

Bible Brain Teaser

A homeschool mom/friend of mine sent this to me. As I post this, I'm still looking for one book! Have Fun!


Bible Brain Teaser

I once made a remark about the hidden books of

the Bible. It was a lulu, kept people looking so

hard for facts, and for others it was a revelation.

Some were in a jam, especially since the names

of the books are not capitalized, but the truth

finally struck home to numbers of readers. To

others, it was a real job. We want it to be a most

fascinating few moments for you. Yes, there will

be some really easy ones to spot. Others may

require judges to help them. I will quickly admit it

usually takes a minister to find one of the 17, and

there will be loud lamentations when it is found.

A little lady says she brews a cup of tea so she

can concentrate better. See how well you can

compete. Relax now, for there really are the

names of 17 books of the Bible in these

sentences.

Yet another Brother In Law

I probably won't be blogging for a couple of days. But, so as not to leave the handful of people who read this without anything new, check out my crazy brother-in-law's blog. He's got alot to say. He can grow some tomatoes, y'all. And he has great linguistic abilities. Enjoy!

Happy Birthday!

This picture was taken 8 years ago today! That little squirt in my hands in Wyatt Henry, who turns 8 years old today. I love that lil' spout, although he's hardly a sprout anymore. We'll be celebrating later on this week...more pictures then.

Adventures

One thing I love about my husband is that he very rarely complains. He's got a great attitude and can make me laugh in just about any situation. This quote makes me think of him. Our life together is always an adventure!

"Children learn from their parents whether life is a wonderful adventure or an endurance of one disappointment after another."

-Valerie Bell
Get Out of Your Kids Faces' and Into Their Hearts

My Husband The Hottie

Now, I'm not one to brag, but my husband is truly a hottie. In fact, he's so hot, his temperature reached 105.4 the other night. Now that's HOT! But, that's my honey...never does anything half way! I'm glad to report that he's recovered nicely, although he still has a sore throat. Thanks to lots of prayer, pills, ice packs and even frozen blueberries, we brought his fever down from 105.4 to 103.2. (You know you're in bad shape when people are happy to see the thermometer read 103.2) Today, he's completley normal. Well, he's back to himself, anyway. And tomorrow, we'll be having Bluberry pancakes for breakfast.

Birthday Ideas for Wyatt

Some of you have asked for birthday ideas for Wyatt Henry. Here are some cool websites you can check out. Also, check the list in the sidebar for other ideas.

(I know he's mentioned a remote control superman. If you feel compelled to lay down $60.00 for a toy, you can find it at Amazon.com.)

http://www.visionforum.com/boysadventure

http://www.scoutstuff.org/BSASupply/default.aspx?ctgy=PRODUCTS&C2=GIFTS&C3=GAMES&C4=&LV=3

Beautiful!

Okay ladies, here is your big chance to be beautiful!! As you may know already, my girlfriend Elysa will be going on a missions trip to Swaziland, Africa. She lived in Swaziland for several years before she was married, caring for the many orphans whose parents have died from AIDS. In January of next year, Elysa will be going back to Africa to minister to those suffering in Swaziland. But, she first has to raise the cash. In order to help her, I will be making and selling jewelry! I only have a few pairs of earrings and bracelets made so far, but we will be making a bunch more. I hope you'll consider purchasing some...they make great Christmas gifts, AND, more importantly, you'd be helping those sweet little orphans. So, you'll beautiful be inside and out!

For more info about Swaziland, check these pages out.

http://www.hopechest.org/

http://www.tomdavis.typepad.com/

"Give Me a Break!"

That's what I was told the other day. I asked my son (the one I was bragging about on my last post) to put his clean laundry in his dresser. He replied, "Give me a break. I just got home from school." Hmmmm. Well! Guess the honeymoon's over.

School Boy

Today, My husband and I enrolled Wyatt Henry in public school. Yes, public school. And, I'm happy to report, the sun still rose & set, the earth did not stop spinning, and I have not dropped over dead. Yet. After a somewhat rocky start in the office due to some missing documentation (that I was so certain I had) Wyatt was settled in with other lil' boogers in his new second grade class. He came home on the bus, which fulfills one of his life long ambitions. You'd have thought the child had been gone to a foreign country for months if you had seen the welcome he received. Siblings running out to meet him, hugs from all of them and mom chanting "Wy-att! Wy-att! Woooo-hoooo!!" After the ballyhoo ( i love that word) died down, Wyatt Henry came into the house, sat down at the kitchen table and said to his brothers and sister, "OK guys, I have to do my homework." And there he sat, eating his snack and doing his homework, until it was finished. Granted it was only 2 pages, but this is WYATT!!! After he finished his homework, he put it in his notebook, got his library book out of his bag, and read. By himself. Without being threatened. WYATT!!! He made a few phone calls to grandparents, and aunts and then READ SOME MORE! To his siblings, no less! Again, without being told. After he'd been home for about an hour, he asked to watch a little TV. Well, sure you can watch TV, Boy-who-looks-like-Wyatt! The rest of the evening progressed normally until at 8:05 he noticed the time and said, "BEDTIME! Guys, it's bedtime!!" Ok.....who is this child? More tomorrow.

AAAAA---CHOOOOO!!!!

This pretty flower is nothing to sneeze at. Literally. Goldenrod is not the evil weed we think it is. The culprit respsonsible for Autumn allergies is ragweed. That's right, ragweed. It even sounds evil. Unlike goldenrod, which sounds somewhat regal. And goldenrod, unlike ragweed, makes a lovely Fall wreath, if you're feeling crafty!

The Big One!!

Today, my baby girl turns 1 year old. Here she is, strutting her stuff!

Did I Really Say That?

Ever say something stupid? How about something inappropriate? I don't know about you, but I can't even begin to count the very thoughtless or completely inappropriate things I've uttered. At 36, I've yet to learn to keep my mouth shut. One might assume that being a blabbering fool at times might lend me to be gracious to those who say hurtful or inapproriate things to me. Nope. Not hardly. It 's much easier to be offended, isn't it? Play the victim, ask others for "prayer" in dealing with the situation, right? Get some sympathy. Well, maybe you've never been there, but I have had parties there. Eventually, inevitably, conviction sets in and I'm embarrassed by my self-centered behavior. Here is one of my very favorite quotes. It comforts me when I put my foot in my mouth, and counsels me when I am offended and harboring resentment.

"Oh, the comfort, the inexpressable comfort of feeling safe with a person: Having to neither weigh thoughts or measure words, but to pour them all out just as they are-chaf and grain together-knowing that a faithful hand will take and sift them, keep what is worth keeping and with a breath of kindness, blow the rest away."

-George Eliot

For Moi?

My girlfriend Elysa bestowed this little happy on my blog the other day! Isn't that sweet? I thought so! I was so moved I decided to remove my Ms. South Carolina video, because making fun of people is not nice. As my husband pointed out, Ms. South Carolina's mother would never have awarded me the Nice Matters award. So, in the spirit of niceness, say good bye to Ms. South Carloina. I don't want anyone to send me the "What a Jerk!" award. That wouldn't be nice at all.

Thanks Elysa!

Aqua Vitae

Lately, my husband has been teaching the children a few phrases in Latin. One of these phrases is "Aqua Vitae" or "water of life". According to the book my husband is teaching from, this phrase often refers to whiskey or brandy. Sad. But, I can honestly say that I've never thought of either of those two drinks as water of life. Which brings me to the question: What is my water of life?Hmmmmm....well those of you who know me are no doubt saying, "Coffee!" and yes, I must admit that I LOVE my coffee. There have been times in my life when I would have gladly taken my coffee through an IV if it had been possible. Late nights with sick children, new baby who is a night owl, times like that. Another "water of life" for me is Gatorade. Yep. Ever tried drinking water when you are sick to your stomach? Well, it's not fun. If you're trying to keep hydrated while dealing with a stomach virus, drinking water can be counter-productive. Gatorade is where it's at. What else?? What about things other than liquids. Naps, for example. Fresh air. Freon!!! Summer in the south = freon. All those things are great, but are really just creature comforts. What's my real "water of life"? Prozac! No, just kidding...it's Jesus. Don't believe me? Check it out...it's in John 4 :14. Jesus says, "whoever drinks some of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again, but the water that I will give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up to eternal life." There it is. Are you thirsty? Try some Aqua Vitae.

Liz: Self-Portrait

Here is a picture my sweet daughter Elizabeth made. She is 6. She drew it herself, cut out strips of colorful paper and glued them onto the picture. The result is this wonderful self-potrait if Lizzie stretching out her arms for a big hug! I just LOVE this picture.

Autumn: A Celebration for the Senses!

Burning leaves * orange * flannel shirts* quail calling to one another * pumpkin pies *football games*cinnamon & nutmeg *scarecrows* pinecones * crunching leaves * candy corn * s'mores *hot apple cider * spider lilies * hayrides * Canadian geese * Wyatt's chili *cranberry nut bread * Monarch butterflies * denim jackets* crows* Thanksgiving Dinner * harvest festivals * State fairs * sweaters* homemade apple pies* vanilla candles* campfires* walks in the woods

FINALLY!!!!!!!!!!

My friends, today is one of my VERY favorite days of the year...the first day of Fall. Autumn Equinox. The day when I think, "YES! I have survived yet another summer in the South! GO me!" Of course I realize that the threat of hot days still exists. I remember my first Autumn in Texas. I went to a UT football game, and not only did I wear shorts, but I came home with a sunburn. I still feel that was very wrong... it simply should not have happened. In my New England memories, football games at the end of October mean thick socks, hot chocolate and a warm
sweater. Not sunblock. Anyway, it is slightly cooler here in Florence, MS than Austin, TX. I won't be donning any woolens till much later in the year, but I may get a chance in the next few weeks to wear my favorite faded blue jeans with my sandals. My feet won't be cold and my legs won't be hot. It's great. I'll be able to drink my morning coffee on the back porch without sweating. And, my children will be bringing me armloads of these very cool looking flowers that grow all over my lawn at the beginning of each fall. They're Spider lillies. I don't know what their scientific name is. Maybe Lillyus Spiderosa. In any case, before I moved here I had never seen them. Now I wait for them every September.


And today, on the first day of Fall, I saw and picked my first Spider Lily. Happy days are here again!

September by Helen Hunt Jackson

The goldenrod is yellow;
The corn is turning brown;
The trees in apple orhcards
With fruit are bending down.

The gentian's bluest fringes
Are curling in the sun;
And dusty pods the milkweed
Its hidden silk has spun.

The sedges flaunt their harvest
In every meadow nook;
And asters by the brook-side
Make asters in the brook.

From dewy lanes at morning
The grapes' sweet odors rise;
At noon the roads all flutter
With yellow butterfiles.

By all these lovely tokens
September days are here,
With summer's best of weather
And autumn's best of cheer.

My fellow bloggers...

Knowing that today will be chock full of outdoor activites since the temperature is below 85 degrees, I'm assuming I won't have much time for blogging. I did, however, take some time this morning to stop by my girlfriend Elysa's most awesome blogspot. Check it out, she's got some great stuff up. She's a true blog artist, a homeschool mom and she has 7 (that's SEVEN, y'all!) children. Rock on, Elsya!

Not Measels

My son Sam has a virus that isn't measels. He had a fever that came and went, and then he woke up covered with red spots. Unlike my other children he has not had his measels immunization. Abigail also has had a fever and appears to be getting these "measel-like" spots. She is not due to get her immunization until next month. Apparently, this virus that is not measels is contagious, but only to other children who haven't been immunized. My children who have had the measels immunization have not gotten this virus.

I'm also to keep my children with "not measels" home, lest they spread it to other non-immunized children. But it's "not the measels".

The Difference

If anyone wants to know the difference between boys and girls, look here. This is what happend when I told my children to go play outside. Apparently, the boys heard something entirely different than the girl.

Leisure by William H. Davies

What is this life if, full of care
We have no time to stand and stare?

No time to stand beneath the boughs
And stare as long as sheep and cows.

No time to see, when woods we pass
When squirrels hide their nuts in grass.

No time to see, in broad daylight,
Streams full of stars, like skies at night.

No time to turn at Beauty's glance,
And watch her feet, how they can dance.

No time to wait till her mouth can
Enrich that smile her eyes began.

A poor life this is if, full of care,
We have no time to stand and stare.

Same Song, Second Verse

Well, here I am again, explaining my blogger slackerism. Once again, I've been caught up in a book series. This month, it's Lynn Austin who's got me hooked. She's a Christian who writes historical fiction, and I'm caught up in the Refiner's Fire series. In fact, as I write this article I'm on the phone with my wonderful husband, asking him to run to the library before it closes to get the next book in the series. I feel somewhat like an addict, and maybe I should be ashamed, but I'm not. I am rather desperate and at times pitiful. I have been known to stay up reading until my eyes hurt, only to deeply regret it a few hours later when I have to pry myself out of bed. My husband tries to warn me (as he hands me a new Dean Koontz novel) that I'll hate myself in the morning, that I'll be miserable as I trudge along bleary eyed and cranky. Who is he kidding? He may as well change his name from "Wyatt" to "Enabler." Not that I'm complaining, I know he's right. I know I need to change my ways. But then, it's not in the knowing, is it?

Oddly Enough

Let me tell you about this wonderful new-to-me character I've recently discovered!! His name is Odd Thomas, and you have to check him out. Dean Koontz has written 3 books (so far) that revolve around this very likeable character whom I just can't get enough of. I read all 3 of the books this past month...they're page turners. If you've never read any Dean Koontz before, well, you should. He's incredibly creative. He's got the awesomeness of Stephen King without the profanity. He's got the mystery, suspense and freaky stuff without perversion. He is why I haven't posted anything in a month.

Well, he and another writer I've come to love. Ann B. Ross has written a bunch of books about a southern widow named Julia Springer, also known as Ms. Julia. I love Ms. Julia. I've read 5 of the Ms. Julia books, not including the one I started tonight. She's very funny...always getting mixed up in bizarre situations and not at all creepy or freaky. This is good after a few chapters of Dean Koontz. She takes the edge off so you can sleep.

Anyway... that's where I've been the whole month of July. Hanging out with Ms. Julia and Odd Thomas. Now, if you read the Odd Thomas books,you have to start with first book in the series, Odd Thomas. If you start on either of the other 2, you'll be really sorry. In fact, I'm not even going to tell you what the other 2 books are titled so if you start on the wrong book, you'll have only yourself to blame.

As for Ms. Julia, the first one in the series is Ms. Julia Speaks Her Mind, but it's not a big deal if you start somewhere else. I started with Ms. Julia Meets Her Match and I'm just fine. Enjoy!

What's in a name?

Here is our youngest son, Sam. His full name is Samuel Whitaker Roberts, but we call him Sam or Sammy or Sam I Am, or even Sambo. If you ask him what his name is, however, he will not admit to any of the aforementioned names. No, no. He will tell you his name is Ben. Or Connor. Or Cake, Cocoa or Candy. Today he told me his name was "Daddy". Until recently, he would not even try to utter the name "Sam", but i caught him in a weak moment the other day. As he was drifting off to sleep at naptime, I held him close and whispered, "I..." He repeated, "I." I whispered, "...am...". He repeated "...am..." I whispered "...Sam." He said "...Ham."
Works for me.

TV Free

My husband and I recently unplugged the TV. For good. It's in the basement. (ha! kidding, Joy. It's in the closet.) I didn't watch much TV...usually news, CSI or something similar or a PBS show. We don't have cable or satellite or whatever. My husband really hates TV, so it was the children who would be the most affected, right? Well, let me tell you, it has been sort of an adjustment for me. The TV was my ticket to a half hour nap, a long hot shower or an semi-uninterrupted phone call. How else was I to sit down with a book and partake of "second cup of coffee time?" All these tasty little moments of respite are gone, gone, GONE!!! Or so I thought. Amazingly enough, my children also have adjusted and are actually learning to entertain themselves by PLAYING WITH THEIR TOYS!!! Can you believe that? Unplug the TV and they actually play with their toys. Who knew?

Perfect Peanut Butter

Speaking of Brothers-in-law (see Newcomers), let me tell you about Dave, my oldest and first brother of the bunch. ( I have 5 in all. I've been collecting them for years and as of November, my collection is complete.) Anyway, back to Dave. Dave is married to my sister Robin. He is a farmer, a trucker, a antique toy collector, a tractor lover, and a history buff (WWII, particularly). Unlike any of my other BILs, Dave is a Yankee. I love all of these things about ol' Dave, but the one talent that really sets him apart is this...Dave has perfect peanut butter. How so, you ask? Well, just step into the kitchen of his old New England farmhouse any day of the week, open the kitchen cabinet and pull out the jar of Skippy. You'll notice that unlike most jars of PB, you can see through his jar down to where the peanut butter begins. That's because Dave, while indulging in a spoonful or two, has meticulously scraped all (and i mean ALL) of the PB off the side of the jar. The surface of the peanut butter is as smooth as it was the day he peeled back the seal, except the jar is half empty! I'm not kidding. He has truly perfected peanut butter storage. You almost don't want to mess it up, but at the same time, how can you resist? Perfect peanut butter begs to messed with. I voiced my delight upon opening a jar while visiting my sister a few months ago, "Wow. That's pretty amazing." My sister peeked over my shoulder into the jar and shrugged, "Oh, that's nothing. One time I opened the jar and he had carved a flower into it." Now THAT is art, my brother. Carry on.

Around the Lake

This picture was taken a few years ago in what is now our back yard.











My daughter Elizabeth found this robin's nest in a young oak tree in our front yard.









Here she is with a king snake her daddy found while transplanting some roses.

Newcomers

Here are 2 of my newest favs! Meet Eric Smith, my groovy new Brother-in-law, and Abigail Reagan Roberts, our latest lil' booger. We like to call her "caboose", and as for Eric...well, we don't really have a nick name for him yet. His time will come. Anyway, Abigail was born in October of last year, and Eric joined the family in November. They were immediately taken with each other.

Lemonade

When was the last time you stopped at a lemonade stand? Not an online lemonade stand...a real homemade lemonade stand, run by children out in their front yard. When was the last time you even saw one? It had been about 7 years for me, until my oldest son set one up about a month ago. He'd been after me for some time to let him do it, but i kept putting him off, telling him, "It's not a good day for it." or "We don't have time today." Then one day, he came running in the house calling, "Momma! Today is the PERFECT day for a lemonade stand!" I was changing my 6 month old daughter's diaper on my bed. He was sweaty and out of breath, and as he ran past me to my bedroom window, he had a big smile on his face. He pulled back our bedroom curtains triumphantly and said loudly, "LOOK!!!" I looked. The child was right. It was indeed the perfect day for lemonade stand. For out on the road in front of our house was a road crew. They drove past to set up signs and flags about 1 mile or so down the road. We had errands to run, and it was pretty early in the morning for lemonade, so I told my son, "When we get back, okay ?" It was a deal. But our errands took longer than expected and cut into our school day. We arrived home just before lunch. I had forgotten about the road crew, but was quickly reminded as we pulled into our driveway. I turned to my son, thinking, "We really have to do school", but the wheels were already turning in his mind. Before I could say a word, he blurted out, "They're right in front of our house! It's almost lunch time!" Again, the child was right. He set up his stand, his sister joined in the fun, and needless to say they raked in.

What Rhymes with "Octopus"?

Nothing, you say? Well, have I got news for you! I learned this morning while my boys were playing with their much loved LeapPad that there is, indeed, a rhyme for "octopus". I know the suspense is killing you, so i'll cut to the chase and tell you what I heard from the LeapPad....."Name a deep sea creature that rhymes with 'roctopus'. " I'm not kidding. That's what it said. Sort of makes one wonder what qualifies as a legitmate rhyme, since apparently, you no longer have to limit yourself to actual words. Shoot, why stop at "rocktopus?" There's also "bloctopus", "froctopus", and "scoctopus". What about "mocktopus"?

Anyway, I guess roctopus does, in fact, rhyme with octopus. In a Dr. Suess sort of way.

Monkey in the Middle

Meet Ben. Benjamin Walker Roberts, actually. He is our third child, hence the title of this picture. As you can see, he's not a monkey, but my husband and I wonder if he isn't somehow part raccoon. The child is into everything. And much like a raccoon, he is very cute and fun to watch, but if he should crawl into your bed at night, he will thrash around like a wild animal. Get him too excited while you're playing with him, and he will sometimes bite. We don't encourage this behavior. But hey, that's the risk you take when you toy around with a wild animal. He also is a very talented young man. He knows how to sit down in Spanish.