My Little Corner of Heaven - Pawlak Style

My boys have been making me laugh.

2012-02-10T06:42:00.002-05:00

Yesterday Grant got himself dressed. He came downstairs and told me he was wearing "the thing that holds your nuts from Jacob". What? Upon further investigation, I found that over his underwear and under his pants he was wearing Jacob's jock, sans cup.

This morning Jacob came and got in bed with me. He said, "I have so many parties to attend. That has never happened before. That's 4 parties in 2 weeks." I never would have guessed for him to talk like that. I am so glad that he is enjoying this.

Basketball Tournament (Feb 4)

2012-02-04T23:44:00.000-05:00

The Eagles rocked the Milan tournament today! Unfortunately, they did not win - but they played some of the MOST aggressive basketball I have seen from them. Especially, my Jacob. At dinner afterward, his coaches asked, "What did you feed that kid?!?! He was an animal! I have never seen him so aggressive - it was awesome! I was surprised his did not foul out in that last game!" And he was awesome! He really stunned me too. I even remember looking at Greg with a question in my eye, as if to say, what the heck? It was so cool!

At the dinner afterward, Grant sat the the team table and somehow became their mascot. Maybe it was because he was such an animal. He had no trouble keeping up with the big boys - but that is no surprise either.

The girls were slightly bored, but managed to pass the time by eating. The. Whole. Time. Yeah.

Greg and I were on the verge of being thrown out because we yelled so loud at one point. I guess we are still working on the whole self-control thing. My dad asked me why I can't just control myself like him. I said that's the problem - I do.

Toenails for Breakfast

2012-02-04T08:32:00.003-05:00

This morning I was kissing Grant's feet and I notice that his last 3 nails on his feet were long, but the first 2 were not. I asked him if he was biting his toenails and he told me yes. Then he proceeded to show me how he does it. I told him that this was disgusting and he should not be doing that. He replied, "But I love it!" Rotten, simply rotten.

Childlike

2012-02-03T06:18:00.002-05:00

Greg and I were just praying over the house situation. After the prayer, Greg says to me, "I couldn't help feeling like Jacob asking for the iPod Touch." (because that is what he desperately wants) I reminded Greg that God is not our genie, but as Jacob's parents, don't we want to give him "every good thing"? We know an iPod Touch would make him happy and we want him to be happy, but FIRST we want him to be responsible, respectful and obedient. God wants all that from and for us too. He is our Heavenly Father and He loves us more than we could ever love our own children.

CRISIS in the Pawlak Household!

2012-02-02T21:08:00.002-05:00

Jadyn had to do a grandparent interview. She chose to interview Grandma Boss. As I was putting her to bed tonight, she told me that she had to have her grandparent at school tomorrow. Well.....Grandma and Grandpa just went up north and Mimi and Papa are in Florida. When I told her they went up north she started bawling. This was the first I had heard that the grandparent was supposed to BE THERE. So we called Grandma and did the interview over the phone. Grandma felt terrible and asked if she could phone in or maybe come in on Monday. Jadyn was just sad, really, really sad. She completed the interview and I sent her on to bed and finished the call with Grandma. Greg went upstairs where he found not only Jadyn crying, but also Grace. Grace, ever so sympathetic, was so upset at what was happening to Jadyn. She said, "This kind of thing never happened to me. I am so sorry it happened to you, Jadyn. If you want me to I will dress up as a grandma and come to your class." Awww.......Greg ran downstairs, grabbed the phone and told Grandma what she had done to HIM! Poor unsuspecting Grandma - who just wanted to get away and have some peace and quiet. I ended the call and went up to lay with the girls. They had moved on to a bit of laughter by this point - PRAISE THE LORD! Jadyn then explained to me that Grace had, indeed, volunteered to dress up as Grandma and come to her class. This was the description: she would take one of those hula hoop things from gym class and put it around her, then she would put Grandma clothes on and the hula hoop thing would be her belly, full of food. Nice. I am sure Grandma is nothing short of thrilled at a description like that. All is quiet now. I am awaiting an email back from Jadyn's teacher as to what exactly is supposed to happen tomorrow. We'll see.

I am just so thankful that my girls love each other so much. They really and truly feel each other's pain. They are more than a blessing. Thank You, LORD.

2012-01-31T17:44:00.002-05:00

I was driving with Grant in the van today and he told me his boots were hurting him. I told him I thought is was his short socks inside his boots. For a few minutes he was quiet, then he announced that his boots weren't hurting anymore. I got out of the car to get him out and noticed a sock on the floor. I looked at him, he gave me that sly smile of his and held up the other sock. I guess he figured out how to make his boots stop hurting - take off the socks!

Smart kid.

2012-01-31T06:48:00.002-05:00

Here I go like Gideon again. Was reading this morning about how after he conquered all his enemies, he took one earring from each person from the plunder and made an ephod. He did it to commemorate the victory (that God gave him - with 300 men against 135,000 men) over his enemies. However, the memorial was quickly turned into an idol of worship - instead of worshiping the true God.

So, I was thinking......is this what I am doing? Am I taking the victory (approval) and making an idol of the "ideal home"? Am I so focused on the end result that I miss the journey along the way? I sure feel that way. I have been praying that God's peace would descend upon me as we wait for His perfect timing and His perfect place. I keep getting tunnel vision, with my sights focused on "the house" and I know I am missing joy in the process. I know that sounds silly even as I type it, but it is so true. God loves me (and you). He wants me (and you) to trust Him with ALL the details of life. He can handle it. I mean, He DID create the entire world AND set it up to sustain us. He is so AWESOME.

Taking this thought a little further.....I keep getting frustrated. I get house listings emailed to me weekly. Sometimes they come daily. There have been numerous times that we have seen something, called to schedule an appointment only to be told an offer was already pending. AUGH! That is so frustrating. It does make me think (thankfully) that God has something better in store. And I am thankful! If I didn't trust that God was completely in control of this, I would lose my mind! I know if it is not meant to be, the door is going to close. My frustration comes from my human nature. I want to know! BUT I need to be still. Be still - and KNOW that He is God. Just be still, Michelle - Be still.

Girls, Girls, Girls

2012-01-30T21:03:00.003-05:00

Krystel is pregnant!! We are pulling for a girl - but we will love this precious bundle not matter what it is.

Tonight as we were talking about it, Jadyn says, "Why does Krystel have to have another baby? She has Spencer and Seth. I can just go up there and be their sister." Oh, OK, sure.

Then Grace says, "Are we going to be able to go to the baby shower?" Ummmm....if we have one, we will be giving it, so.....yes you can go.

On a totally unrelated note - Grace just stuck her head over the ledge and said, through tears, that she is sad about thinking about moving. When I asked why, she said she has so many memories here and she doesn't want to drive by this house and think about them. I reminded her that having memories is a GOOD thing. Especially when the memories are good ones. We just have to take the memories with us to the new place - and then make more.

And good ole Dad, yelled from the bedroom, "Grace! Go to bed!" Oh - he just doesn't get it. We are girls and girls do everything through their emotions - whether or not they want to. Enough said.

More on Gideon

2012-01-30T06:38:00.002-05:00

You will probably be sick of this by the time this house process is over, but......

This morning I read that the LORD was going to deliver the Midianites into the hands of Gideon and only 300 men! But not only did God tell Gideon this, he also told him that if he, Gideon, was scared he should go down to the camp of the Midianites and what he would hear would encourage him. So Gideon went. Know what that means? He was scared! So am I. When Gideon went, he heard (I'm paraphrasing) that the Midianites would be handed over to Gideon. He praised the LORD and went back - encouraged.

I know that God hears my prayers. I know that God knows the desires of my heart. It is no secret. I know He has a plan. I just need some encouragement. Encouragement to forge ahead. God speaks - I know firsthand. I want to hear His voice. Speak Lord, I am listening.

What a Nice Night!

2012-01-29T20:18:00.003-05:00

I had the most amazing snuggle, Bible and prayer time with my kids tonight before bed. We were all crammed in the girl's bed and we read about God's amazing creation of the world. What an amazing gift that is to us. And to know - if we can even grasp our minds around - that while God was creating all that he had us on his minds. Not us as a whole, but us as in Michelle, and Greg, and Jacob, and Grace, and Jadyn, and Grant, and you. Wow!!! That NEVER ceases to amaze me. And it made for a nice talk with my kids about God's love. Which then drifted on over to the house thing. Still waiting to hear from you, LORD......don't really know exactly what to do. However, I realize patience is involved - and since it has only been 3 days.....I will certainly wait.

Greg is cracking me up. He has pulled a chair over in front of the fireplace, where he has a fire going, so that he can put his feet up while he drinks a glass of wine. That dude really knows how to relax. But before you go thinking he is a boozer - he is just finishing the half bottle of wine left over from CHRISTmas. He says it is good for his heart or something.

Feeling like Gideon

2012-01-28T09:21:00.004-05:00

This morning I am feeling like Gideon. I was just reading about him in Judges and was reflecting on how I am like him. I have seen God bring me through countless things. I have even heard His voice. Yet, I still waiver. Why? Why am I so sinful in my faith? I KNOW that God is. I know that He is in control. I know that He has a plan. Why am I like this? I feel like I keep asking God for a sign. Despite seeing His goodness time after time, I still keep putting the wool out and asking.

We have received verbal approval of our mortgage. Which means we have started looking for houses. OK - a house. Yesterday we found 4 that we were interested in, only to find out that all 4 had offers pending. Talk about stressing me out. Then I remembered how faithful God has been and I stopped worrying. Then Greg was looking and talking and my stomach got all tied into knots again. Here I go again. I do not want to be like this. As I reflect back on EVERY place we have lived, God has provided. I have no doubt that He will continue to provide. I think it is more my desire to know what and when, rather than actually trusting that He will provide. Does that make sense?

LORD, I give You this entire process. From start to finish, it is completely in Your hands. I know You have a plan for us and I trust You completely. My human nature seems to get the better of me (too often) and I worry (or wonder) about EXACTLY what that plan is. Please forgive me for this. Please help me to rest in Your providential care. Please help me to eagerly await what You have in store for us. I love You, LORD!

On a completely unrelated note......my mom's car was broken into while she was at work last night. Early this morning, she called and called my dad to tell him and cancel the credit cards, but he slept through all 10 calls. Finally, she called me and asked me to go over and tell him. So I did and he was able to cancel the card. I am so thankful that I live close to my parents, so that I can help them in all situations. I am so blessed! Thank You, LORD!!!

Important Lessons from Judges (and the Rest of the BIBLE)

2012-01-25T06:43:00.004-05:00

This morning I started reading in the Old Testament - Judges. This book of the Bible tells about Israel's repetitive disobedience to God, and God's great mercy to them. He does not tolerate their disobedience - He punishes them. But He does not destroy them. They ARE His chosen people. But they have to learn - He is God and they must serve Him ALONE. Same is true with me (and you). GOD IS. The sooner we learn this and trust Him alone, the better off we are. The first 2 chapters talk about the generation of Joshua dying off and the next generation rising up, but not knowing, serving or trusting God. It really drove home to me the importance of teaching my children about God. I can't for the life of me figure out why He would bother, but the truth is that He loves me (and you) more than anything. That is why He does what He does. Pure love. He gives us what we do not deserve, what we could never earn or never repay. Grace and mercy. Completely undeserved. Yet, given freely - by accepting what His precious Son, Jesus, did for me (and you) on the cross. Jesus was fully obedient to God - even doing what He did not want to do - suffering so that we could be free. Free from the wages of sin - which is death. We have complete forgiveness from our sins through the blood of Jesus. Do you realize that? Do you know what an amazing gift that is? It is there for me (and you)!!!!!! Jesus is there for me (and you). Just like God never left the Israelites (oh, He hid His presence from them, but He never left), Jesus will never leave you. Sweet children of mine.....know that Jesus loves you. He went to the cross with your name on his heart. He suffered for you. Don't turn away from Him. Accept His priceless gift. Know, that you know, that you know, that you will be with Him for all eternity. It is too important to neglect. Pray....

Dear Jesus, I am a sinner, completely unworthy of all you have done. In spite of that, I know that you love me. Please forgive me. Please make your home in my heart. Thank you, Jesus for all you have done. Please be my Lord and Savior. In your precious Name, Amen.

That's all it takes. Jesus is yours!!! You have freedom from your sins - forgiveness from your sins. Does this mean you won't sin anymore? Heck no. We are all sinners. The Holy Spirit will help you say no to temptation, but we all still make mistakes. If you mess up, go - at once - to the feet of Jesus. Ask His forgiveness and be restored. He loves you and will NEVER give up on you!

But, there will come a time when it will be too late. Jesus IS coming back. He will take His children home to live FOREVER with Him in Heaven. You DO NOT want to miss that, I promise!!!! If Jesus returns, and you have not accepted Him, you will be separated from God FOREVER. Forever is a very, very long time. You DO NOT want eternal separation from God. This is known as hell.

I love you. I love you more than words can say. Whoever you are, whoever is reading this, I am talking to you. Jesus loves you and so do I! Turn your eyes upon Jesus. Trust Him with all you have. He is all you need.

I LOVE YOU!!!!

Sex Education Pop Quiz

2012-01-24T07:44:00.002-05:00

This morning I was sitting with Jacob when Jadyn came downstairs with her pajama top unbuttoned. I told her she needed to keep herself covered up because those were her privates. Jacob said, "Uh-uh. That's her virginia!" Oh my word - I cannot stop laughing even now! He remembered but associated it with a word he already knew. Virginia - I am still cracking up!

The Girl with TWO Moms

2012-01-23T13:44:00.004-05:00

I am so sure that Jadyn is thrilled to have 2 moms. Yes - 2. Myself (the one who bore her) and Grace (the one who loves to "guide" her). The girls were just cleaning their closet and Grace was done with her part and came downstairs and sat by me. Jadyn stuck her head over the ledge and asked Grace where she should put something that was both of theirs. Grace said, "Think, Jadyn. Think." Jadyn went back into the room. I told Grace that was not a very nice way to talk to her sister, and she kept on reading. Moments later, she tore upstairs, was up there a few minutes and then came back down. She said, " I apologized to Jadyn for how I talked to her. I know I shouldn't have been mean to her. I told her I would help her do her part." Then she leaned to my ear and whispered, "I also told her that the more time she spent screwing around in her room, the less time she would have to play." Oh, Jadyn is such a lucky girl!!!!

2012-01-23T06:50:00.002-05:00

Read this for our devotion this morning. I was amazed at how our lives have lined up with this. Check it out.

Deuteronomy 8:7-18

7 For the LORD your God is bringing you into a good land—a land with brooks, streams, and deep springs gushing out into the valleys and hills; 8 a land with wheat and barley, vines and fig trees, pomegranates, olive oil and honey; 9 a land where bread will not be scarce and you will lack nothing; a land where the rocks are iron and you can dig copper out of the hills. [WE ARE GETTING READY TO START THE HOUSE BUYING PROCESS]

10 When you have eaten and are satisfied, praise the LORD your God for the good land he has given you. 11 Be careful that you do not forget the LORD your God, failing to observe his commands, his laws and his decrees that I am giving you this day. 12 Otherwise, when you eat and are satisfied, when you build fine houses and settle down, 13 and when your herds and flocks grow large and your silver and gold increase and all you have is multiplied, 14 then your heart will become proud and you will forget the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. [TO ILLINOIS AND BACK HOME AGAIN] 15 He led you through the vast and dreadful wilderness, [LEAR] that thirsty and waterless land, with its venomous snakes and scorpions. [LINDSAY] He brought you water out of hard rock. 16 He gave you manna to eat in the wilderness, something your ancestors had never known, to humble and test you so that in the end it might go well with you. [FOOD STAMPS] 17 You may say to yourself, “My power and the strength of my hands have produced this wealth for me.” 18 But remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your ancestors, as it is today.

I love how I can read God's Word and see my life played out. I love that I serve the ALMIGHTY GOD, whose Hand is on every single part of my life. I will praise His Great name forever.

Sex Education

2012-01-23T06:41:00.003-05:00

Last night we started sex education with our kids. We read, as a family, the book, "The Story of Me", which talks about how a child is formed. The book is geared towards 3-5 year olds, but it is interesting that I still had a hard time saying 'penis' and 'vagina' to my kids. These are part of the bodies God created and it should not be awkward, yet the corruption of this world has taken something God created for beauty and made it seem awkward. Jacob giggled at the mention of 'penis' and Grace said she felt that the book was 'inappropriate'. How do they already know to feel this way? Lord, please help Greg and I as we navigate through these waters. Help us to teach our children the importance of purity and using their bodies to glorify you. Help them to see why.

They funny part of this was that Greg stayed home from church yesterday because he was not feeling well. He told me to leave Grant home with him. Before I left, I asked him to read the above-mentioned book because I wanted to read it to the kids. Apparently he misunderstood what I asked because he read it to Grant while we were at church. When we came home and I asked him if he read it, he said yes. Then we talked about reading it to the kids and he told me he already read it to Grant - isn't that what I asked him to do? No.....then he told me how weird he felt saying 'vagina' to Grant. Oh geez.

Life is Like That

2012-01-18T06:19:00.003-05:00

This is the song in my mind this morning:

What a Mighty God we serve!
What a Mighty God we serve!
Angels bow before Him,
Heaven and Earth adore Him,
What a Mighty God we serve!

We have had some struggles recently. Oh - they are certainly small considering what other people are going through, but nevertheless, they are struggles. Sunday night one of my children left the van door open all night and when I went to start it, it was dead. So Greg jumped it and on we went. Yesterday, while I was working, I found out that someone had hacked my email account. First I tried to have a friend change my password - that didn't work. After work, I sat in the school library for 2.5 hours trying to change my password. I could not. It was more than frustrating. So I decided to open a new email account and move all my contacts. Ugh. What a painful job that was. But it is done and I like my new email better. Then this morning when Greg went out to start his van, he tried to start mine (thank you LORD) and it was dead again! Great. But my first thought was.....well, at least I have Greg's car I can drive. And Greg's first thought....take CASH and get a new battery. What a blessing that we could have these types of thoughts, and not panic as to where to get the money to get a new battery. Thank you LORD. Then we sat down to do our devotion and it was on regaining our balance. It said, "Sometimes life is like that. Something unexpected upsets our routine, and we are knocked off balance. Perhaps its [someone hacking into your email account or a dead battery]." See? Sometimes life IS like that. But PRAISE GOD, that we have the ability (although we don't always recognize it) to praise Him in those situations. Another example of this is Greg's sister, Alicia, who just got in a really bad accident (not her fault), and it is going to take 4-6 weeks to fix her car, not to mention the huge amount of money involved. Now - that knocks you off balance. We are praying for her in this. We are praying that her eyes stay on God, not on the situation. It is like Peter when he wanted to walk on the water. he could do the impossible if he kept his eyes on Jesus, but as soon as he took his eyes off Jesus and looked at the circumstances around him - he started sinking. Life is like that too. If we look at all the (especially unexpected) situations around us, we will definitely sink. But if our eyes stay on Jesus - trusting Him for everything - we will not be swallowed by the situations. He will help us through them.

What a MIGHTY God we serve!!!!!

Visiting with Tom

2012-01-16T15:50:00.003-05:00

Last night Tom came over. He was working on my laptop and Jacob (age 9) popped over to him and asked, "Hey Tom, have you seen my 'berries'?" Tom's head popped up and he looked at me, as if to say "What?!?!" That was exactly, what I was thinking. All of a sudden Jacob ran away and then ran back. He was holding in his had his Barry Sanders football cards. Oh. Those were the "barrys" he was talking about. Good thing.

As Tom continued to work on my computer, Jadyn (age 5) came over and sat next to me. Shortly she was laying across my lap with her head on Tom's shoulder. Then she asked Tom if he needed her help. She said, "You just have to "X" out of that." I guess she is learning some stuff in computer class at school.

Jacob's New Business

2012-01-14T10:25:00.002-05:00

Yesterday Jacob came home from school and rushed out to shovel snow. He decided to go to the neighbor's houses and offer to shovel their driveways for $3. By the time he was finished yesterday, he had made $18! And he only shoveled 3 driveways - the first one gave him $10, the second one gave him $5 and the third one paid his asking price. He really did a great job! This morning he rushed through breakfast to get out and start again. I am so impressed by his desire to work hard for his money. Praise God for that! So far he has only done one house, but the lady paid him $7 and asked for his name and phone number so she can use him again. Now - THAT is impressive! Not only is he working hard and making money, but he is building references too.

2012-01-13T21:26:00.002-05:00

Tonight, after dinner, Greg asked the kids to go into the playroom, close the door and decide together what we would have for dessert. He said he would get them whatever they wanted as long as they all agreed on it and did not fight. The conversation lasted no more than 30 seconds before fighting began. After about a minute of that, the "no dessert" clause was enacted. Too bad that they couldn't work together to decide on a dessert. But, I did feel a little bit guilty eating the chocolate creme pie Greg brought home for him and me. Just a little.

Then we watched a 1946 movie called "Courage of Lassie", starring a very young Elizabeth Taylor. It was so cheesy and Greg and I laughed at the sets and how movies used to be. They sure have come a long way. Other than Jacob, the kids liked it. After it was over Greg asked each of them what part they liked the best.
Grant: The coyote
Grace: The dog kissing
Jacob: The shooting
Jadyn: When the girl died (she didn't die, but fell and hit her head - but seriously?)

Then Jacob said some smart alec comment to Greg (which I cannot for the life of me remember), which caused Greg to send Jacob to his room. After the fifth (yes, I said 5th) time of Greg telling Jacob, I stepped in. Jacob and I took a trip to my room with the spoon (uh-huh) and after he climbed into bed we had a (surprisingly) nice talk about respect. I gave him 2 examples - one of a respectful kid and one of a disrespectful kid. I asked which he would prefer to be. We went over Colossians 3:20, which tells children to obey their parents in EVERYTHING (not just what they feel like obeying). And why should they do this? Because it pleases the LORD. I also explained to him that when he honors his parents, he is also honoring God, and that is what He calls us to do. At the beginning of the conversation, Jacob was plain mad. Telling me that I hated him and that was why I treat him like I do. I explained to him that because I love him so much and want the best for him, I expect more from him than a parent who didn't care. I (OK Greg and I are) am trying to set him up to be successful, not to fail. I also used the example of the employee, who when his boss told him to do something, chose not to do it. I asked Jacob how many times do you think it would take for the boss to fire the guy? He answered 2. As I kissed him goodnight for the 100th time, I think he finally got it. I think he actually felt bad. My goal was not to "make him feel bad", rather to show him that his behavior was not good and will not be tolerated. I pray that it sticks. I can definitely say that the words I spoke tonight were not my own - I am so thankful to God for that. It was as if I really had some intelligence in what I was saying. All glory to God for that!!!

On another note, Greg's sister, Alicia, got in a big car accident today. Praise the LORD, she and the kids are fine, but the car may be totaled. I was talking with her tonight and she told me that when she was buckling her kids in, she took extra time to make sure they were in good and tight. She took so much time that her 3 year old asked her what she was doing. She responded saying that "Mommy just feels like she needs to make sure you are strapped in tight." Oh, praise God in Heaven for His Mighty Hand of protection that was on them. I told her that much too. And she agreed. I pray that her eyes are opened. I pray that this incident, while absolutely horrible, works to show her the light of Jesus. That she turns her life, and the control of it, over to the One and ONLY that already has the control. I pray that she sees God and His Precious Son, Jesus and the Holy Spirit for who they really are - God in ONE. I love Alicia as though she was my own sister and I pray that this experience will not just pass her by. I know God is working!!!

Starting the New Year (2012)

2012-01-13T06:42:00.003-05:00

Wow! The start of a new year and I have not posted anything in so long. I have a lot to catch up on, so this will be choppy and definitely out of sequence, but here nevertheless.

I got a job! Yay! I am the lunchtime recess lady at the kid's school. And I love it! The interesting thing? I think it is making me a better mom. I cannot yell at these kids (unless they are really doing something wrong), so I have to be patient and ingenious when I deal with them. I like the stretching it is making me do - because then I can take that home and use it with my own kiddos. Love, love, love being at the school.

Because of this, Grant gets to spend extra special time with Grandpa, at what is referred to as "Grandpa School". It is awesome because they both love being together and Grandpa has really been teaching Grant things. Recently Grant learned to put his shoes on and to get on the toilet by himself to poop. Previously he learned to spell "boy" and "Grant". Grandpa is really doing a great job and I can't ever tell him enough how much I love him and appreciate all he is doing for me!!! I could never pay him enough for what he is doing, but I do try to spend some (emphasis on some) time in his barn. Grant is spunky, for sure. He is so stinking cute and then so stinking naughty all wrapped up in one amazing little dude. He thinks he is 9 - sometimes he does lower his age to 5 - but he is only 3 1/2!!! He loves his older brother and wants to do EVERYTHING Jacob does!!! Grant is going to school in the fall and is already excited. It is awesome how God lined that up too. Grant will go to school 2 days a week, and the other 3 will be with Grandpa. He ended up with the same preschool teacher that all the other kids had - wow - even though she closed her doors and works somewhere else now. But I had a one hour gap of time when preschool got out, but when I was still at work. I found an awesome lady, who lives exactly between Grant's school and my school, who will walk to school and pick Grant up, give him lunch and only charge me $3 per hour! Amazing - thank you LORD! We went there yesterday so Grant could meet her and the other kids, and I am so excited about it. Better yet, so is Grant! He loved telling my kids about where he was going when he finally gets to go to school.

Grace is playing Mrs. King in her class's presentation of MLK's "I Have a Dream". She has quite a large speaking role and has already memorized it. I love that she does it with inflection in her voice, too. She really is very talented. On a different note, she is having friend issues. She has a friend that has been leaving her out quite a bit lately. This is really bothering her (as if it wouldn't, right?) and I wish I could really do something. Instead, we have had some nice talks about the fact that God is the only One who will never let us down. People are human. They are sinners in need of God's saving grace. None of is is perfect and we can't be. As such, we are all destined to let others down from time to time. However, God will NEVER do that. I love how in tune with the LORD Grace is. She knows His love for her and I am so thankful for that. I pray that this type of situation will not happen very often, but as they do, my prayer is that it will make her faith stronger, her love deeper and her own compassion for others unstoppable. Grace is an amazing girl, with a heart so big. I am very blessed to be her momma. What a gift! Oh yeah, another note on my Gracie-girl......she is becoming a woman (much too soon if you ask Greg or me). We are starting to develop boobies. I know this will be embarrassing, but I have to keep the record of such developments. Sorry, sweetie.

Jadyn is working hard at becoming a reader and a writer. She is doing well, but really needs to slow it down and take her time. She is very much a social butterfly at school and would, most likely, rather talk and play than read or write. Every morning she runs downstairs, grabs a blanket and sits in front of the heater and snuggles. Then she gets up, comes over to me and asks me to hold her on the chair. I love to snuggle with my kids. I love even more that they want me to snuggle them. While I was at school yesterday, I had one of the 3 male teachers come up to me and tell me he was just tackled by a kindergarten girl. Knowing, of course, who he was speaking of I asked, "Was she strong?" He responded, "Oh yeah." That's my Jadyn girl.

Jacob is playing travel basketball and doing a great job. His coach and I do not get along - he hates me and I don't think he is very good or fair. But, nevertheless, Jacob is an awesome player. He is tall and strong and can shoot great from outside and can rip down rebounds - he fights for them. I have also recently learned that he is the kid in high demand on the kickball field at recess because he has the best kick. Pretty cool, huh? He is really good at math and spelling, but really does not like to read. I keep praying that something will click - that he will find a type of book that he REALLY wants to read and can't put down. It will happen, I know it will. Jacob is also very into football. It is neat, though, to watch and listen to him and Greg talk football. It amazes me that they can both keep names, teams, positions, and stats in their heads, but then have such a hard time remembering things that really matter. Guys are so weird. Jacob likes a lot of football dudes, but I am really glad to see him interested in Tim Tebow. I am even more interested in listening to Greg talk to him about being a real leader and standing up for what you believe in, even if the world doesn't like what you are saying. This is the REAL stuff.

I feel so busy these days. I am sure it is because my day is broken up with work. But I love it!!! There is hardly time before work to do anything and and hardly time after work and before I pick the kids up. Sometimes I wonder if I am just making excuses though. Oh, I have so much to do, I just can't do anything. That is a lie. Before CHRISTmas, I was working out everyday. I was doing the 30-day shred. I felt great. Since the new year, I have not been doing much of anything, especially since I was sick with the stomach flu, then an upper respiratory thing that still has me down a bit. But I NEED to get back to it. I need the energy back.

A week or so ago, I had the stomach flu. I have not been that sick is a very long time. It was not funny, but Greg made me laugh. He taped signs to the bedroom door that said, "Stop! Don't Come In! Mom SICK! Call her if you need her." I had to talk to my kiddos on the phone! And every time he came in, he sprayed a 1/2 of a can of Lysol on everything. Needless to say, no one else got sick. Praise the LORD!!! And thank you Greg. I would not have wanted anyone else in my family to have gotten that - it was awful. I actually pulled muscles in my neck from dry heaving so much. Oh....yuk!

We are in the process of looking for a house, kind of. We feel that it is time. We have started the financing process and are waiting for approval. Then, we will start to look for a new home. I am ready to have my own place. Greg is ready to spend less money and have the tax write-off. But, it sure feels like it is time. We are praying for God's will in this whole process. We are trusting the He will lead us to where we are supposed to be. Clearly, we have our thoughts on where and what. But, we plan our course, but HE determines our steps. We will trust Him alone and He will lead us to where we are supposed to be. Praise God! He has so provided for us all along, there is no reason to even have a shred of doubt now.

I guess for now, that will sum it up. But I am going to make a better effort of doing just a quick daily update. I recently found an old journal (hand written) that I kept when Jacob and Grace were 4 and 3, and Jadyn was just a baby. I was reading it to the kids and they just laughed and laughed at how silly they were. They love to hear stories about themselves, so I am going to try and keep this updated. Until later.....

Too Much Liquor

2011-12-30T14:04:00.003-05:00

Jadyn just told Greg and I that she had "too much liquor". I said, "What?!?!" She responded, "Too much liquor." Then I asked her where she got the liquor from. She promptly jumped up and showed me her Push Pop (sucker type candy). Then she said, "Too much licker." Ohhhh. Makes more sense now.

Basketball Woes

2011-12-21T06:49:00.003-05:00

We had a bit of an issue over the weekend with our basketball team. Jacob did not get his usual amount of play time at his last game. I think it is because my dad and I were a little too mouthy and the coach was trying to prove something to us, although when we asked after the game, he said that he "just didn't notice." You can only imagine how that sat with me, being the nice, sweet person that I am. So, basically, I have been carrying a grudge. Last night, Jacob had practice and I suggested that Greg go to the practice after Jadyn's concert....just to check things out. At about 7:45 pm, I went upstairs with Grant, laid down with him and prayed. We prayed and prayed and prayed. We prayed for my attitude, the coach's attitude, that Jacob would not be adversely affected by my poor choices, that we would all move past this, etc. When Greg got home, I asked him how it went. He said that as soon as practice was over, the coach came right up to him and talked with him about Jacob. They talked about what he was doing good and what he could work on. Greg said that the coach was very nice and courteous to him. Oh! I forgot to tell you that when Greg dropped Jacob off....the coach was stand-offish and rude to Greg - which was what prompted my prayers in the first place. As Greg was telling me about his conversation with the coach, a HUGE smile spread across my face. He asked what I was smiling about. I said there is no coincidence in the fact that the coach's attitude was different. I told Greg that Grant and I were praying for that very thing while practice was ending. What an AWESOME God we serve!!!!!! It never ceases to amaze me when I see God work in ways like this. It is not that He is TOO BIG to deal with this, but rather that He is SO BIG that He cares about the minute details of my life. He definitely cares about your details too! Praise His Holy Name!!!!

Jadyn's Kindergarten CHRISTmas Program

2011-12-21T06:46:00.002-05:00

Jadyn had her CHRISTmas program last night. They were so stinking cute. I am a bit bummed though. I forgot to take a picture of her as an elf. I did, however, get video of it, but alas, that does not help me here.

Jesus Walk 2011

2011-12-12T07:09:00.001-05:00

Our church held it's 25th annual Jesus Walk in December. This is a walk through the events leading up to the birth of Christ right through to current day. On the first weekend, this past weekend, Jacob and Grace were the innkeepers. Next weekend, I will be a Mary and Jacob and Grace will be innkeepers again. It is an amazing performance!

Basketball 2011-2012 Season Starts

2011-12-12T07:04:00.002-05:00

Grant's Muscles

2011-12-12T07:02:00.000-05:00

Grant was showing us just HOW big he was.

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-12-12T06:51:00.006-05:00

Stayed at Krystel and Steve's house. Dinner at Wayne and Sandy's house. All 6 of us girls went shopping - we left at 8pm and I was back in bed by 4:49am on Friday morning. A successful trip, although we did not finish at the Omelette Shoppe. But Greg did make me breakfast in bed and Jacob served it to me. Saturday, we took the little kids downtown to see Santa, make ornaments and hang them on the tree and see the parade. That was a ton of fun!

Silver Bells in Lansing

2011-12-12T06:48:00.003-05:00

We attended the Silver Bells party in Lansing in November. We ate dinner, went to the parade, watched the tree get lit, saw Radio Disney performances, saw fireworks and finished up with a Cody Simpson concert on the capitol lawn. It was a fun and very busy night. The picture below is of the kids sitting on the capitol steps - right before a police officer told us we weren't supposed to be there.

Backing Up

2011-12-12T06:44:00.001-05:00

I think I have forgotten to do some updating. Yes, I have. I was just perusing through my pictures and I need to go all the way back to before Thanksgiving. Wow! Check it out.

To Work or Not?? That WAS the Question.

2011-12-04T19:43:00.003-05:00

I have been subbing for lunch recess at the kid's school lately. This is the job I want - when it is time. Twice in the last 2 weeks I have thought it was time. The first time someone quit to move to a different job within the school system. I thought that was going to be my "in". The more I thought about it, the more the ping pong game in my head became more fierce. Finally, (and it was what I should have done first anyway) I decided to pray about it. I told the LORD that I needed to know what He wanted me to do. I was too dumb witted to figure it out for myself. The next day I went into school and found out that after one day, the girl who quit decided that this job was not for her and she was coming back. Praise the LORD! There was my answer! So, I was fine. Content to continue subbing. Then another lady quit. Oh my word - here it goes again. I even talked to a secretary and she said the principal would put in a good word for me, and no one (from the inside) would want this job. So, I instantly started the prayer process again. Was I really supposed to do this? What about Grant? What am I supposed to do? Later that day, I found out that a bus driver (an insider) wanted the job. That meant I was out. Again, praise the LORD!!! It's not that I do no want the job, because I do. I just want it in the right timing - God's timing. Obviously, I am supposed to stay with my Granty-boy and give him the time I should. I am so thankful for God's answer to my prayer - even if it is not exactly what I thought I wanted to hear.

Grant and His BIG Muscles

2011-12-03T22:30:00.001-05:00

Grant has been showing off his muscles lately. I really need to post the pictures, but I am too tired tonight. Remind me later.

Smile FM

2011-12-03T22:25:00.002-05:00

As we were riding the car tonight, Jacob asked if I would turn on Smile FM. It may not seem like a big deal to you, but to me it sure is! It means that my son is CHOOSING to listen to Christian radio over anything else. That makes a momma's heart swell.

Another plus to Smile FM is that Grant is even getting into the "mugick" (music). Each (and I mean each) time a new song comes on the radio, Grant asks me "Who is singing this?" He is really getting to know the "mugick".

A Different Sort of Visit

2011-12-03T22:20:00.002-05:00

Today we went to Greg's parent's house for a visit. I have to say, it was was one of the nicest visits we have ever had. Mimi declared a "no TV" day, and pulled out some board games. Greg, Papa and the kids spent some time outside together. Mimi played a board game with the kiddos. And then there was a family game of dominoes. Grace and Papa sang and danced together and Papa spent time whispering to each of the kids. Greg and Papa spent some special time outside talking...about their future plans. Papa even suggested that he, Greg and the boys (yes both of them) take a trip to the Picture Rocks in the UP next summer. It was a very different sort of afternoon. And I REALLY liked it!

Soup Kitchen

2011-11-19T20:50:00.003-05:00

This afternoon/evening, Greg and I took Jacob and Grace to a soup kitchen to volunteer our time. We did so much, and yet it felt like we hardly did anything - we had such a good time doing it! Here is a list of some of the things we did:
-Set up chairs
-Stocked cups with napkins, salt and pepper
-Made lasagna
-Bagged fresh produce
-Bagged onions
-Sorted desserts
-Served food
-Did dishes
-Chopped 100 lbs of carrots
-Swept floors

I know I have forgotten some things, but it was so awesome to see my kiddos working hard, serving others AND having fun all at the same time. They never really complained - I say "never really" because nearing the end Grace wanted to leave the kitchen, where she was serving dinner with me, and go out to the other line and help Jacob with the desserts (oh.....he was in his glory!). So the complaining was really non-existent and that made me so proud. They were the only kids there and they did an awesome job of keeping up with everyone. They never complained about being tired and, in fact, they did a fabulous job of asking what they could do next. The other thing that really impressed me was how they interacted with the other adults there. They talked with them like they knew them already - joked and everything. It was a great time and I am so glad we were able to do it. Next time, we will take a few more kiddos.

Santa is Dead

2011-11-19T10:54:00.002-05:00

I am shocked that I did not post earlier when Jacob gave up on Santa. It was only about a month or 2 back (October 19, to be exact - just checked Facebook). His discussion with me was brought on by his really extreme and unrealistic expectations for CHRISTmas presents. It was fairly simple and he said he kind of already knew. So back to the initial reason for THIS post.....Grace knows now too. She started talking to me about it because she and her new BFF were talking at school about Santa and her friend (Emma) told her she did not believe in Santa because he was magical and that was from the devil. Grace told me that she did not believe because the only person that has THAT kind of power is God. So Santa couldn't be real. Then she reasoned that if a thunderstorm could wake her up in the middle of the night, why couldn't she hear the sleigh and reindeer and Santa's footsteps on the roof? So I filled her in. Then she was horrified - we just HAD to tell the other kids. We could not let them believe this lie. (Of course, she is absolutely right) But I had to tell her that we had to keep it a secret for the little kids. She looked me in the eye, tears in hers, and said "Jacob is NOT a little kid, Mom." Then I had to tell her that he already knew the truth. She was shocked! Then as she continued to weep through this (I think she was afraid to not believe, or maybe afraid to believe, I am not sure, but I know she was afraid) she started to think about the present side.
G: "So, you buy all those things we get for CHRISTmas?"
M: "Uh-huh."
G: "So, you just go out in the middle of the night and leave us here alone while you shop?"
M: "No. I...."
G: (interrupting) "That's what you do when you shop all the time?!?"
M: (smiles)
G: "So, you already have some of MY presents bought?"
M: (winks)
G: "Mom, I don't want any presents for CHRISTmas. Besides, I already have the only present that really matters anyway."

That was one of my most proud moments as a momma. She KNOWS the truth.....she always has! Praise the LORD!

Week of November 6, 2011

2011-11-13T20:34:00.004-05:00

There is a turkey farm near our house and I was telling the kids on the way to school about how they are fattening the turkeys up for Thanksgiving dinner. On the way back, as we drove by again, Grant asked me if "those were the chickens the kids would eat." I said that yes, they were the "turkeys" that people would eat. Then he asked me, "Who gets the head?" Stunned would have described me. What ever would cause him to think of that?

Later we were going to Grandma H's for a visit. I was explaining that Grandma would really appreciate a hug and a kiss. Grandmas REALLY like that kind of thing, you know. He said to me, "Hugging and kissing Grandma is.....ick." Silly boy. Despite how he felt, he was such a good boy on that trip and he loved Grandma up very much. I think she might have even had fun with us. We went to the bank, the gas station, out to lunch with Sue, to the bakery, to the doctor, to the Secretary of State, to the drug store and to the grocery store. We had a very full day. Thankfully, my children (Grant and Grandma) both behaved. I look forward to our next visit.

Last night we were on our way home from a birthday party and there was an accident. Right away Jadyn said, "Mom, we NEED to pray for those people." 5 years old! I love that she has a heart for others and even more, Jesus! On the heels of that, at Sunday school this morning we were talking about what has helped shape our faith and how we respond to trials. I explained to the class that seeing how my Grandma B. was and then how my mom sat at my Grandma's feet when BT died, and how they both gave that situation (that they could not control) over to the ONLY ONE who could do anything (our LORD GOD). To see their faith enacted like that was HUGE in developing my faith. But to speak that out loud and then think of it in context of Jadyn's comment last night, made me realize how important my job is as mom in developing and strengthening my children's faith. Can I do it for them? Absolutely not - because if I could I would. But I can certainly model it for them. And be there to support them in their trials. Be the Good LORD willing, I will!!!

The teeth are back....well maybe the build-up is back. We had a night of extreme hysteria tonight as I brushed Grace's teeth. The plaque is really building up on her bottom teeth and I have been allowing her to brush her own teeth because she promised me that she would do a good job. See? This is the EXACT reason I will not get a dog. A promise only lasts a couple of days. So, we are back to me brushing EVERYONE's teeth (well, not Greg's). Super.

Tom's Back - YAY!!!!!

2011-11-04T12:34:00.001-04:00

Tom took a tour of duty to Texas for the past 8 or so months. I think he had a pretty good time there, but we are so glad to have our TOM back. We missed him and are happy he is safely home!!!!

Halloween at School (2011)

2011-11-04T12:30:00.002-04:00

Trick or Treating (2011)

2011-11-04T12:26:00.002-04:00

This year we trick-or-treated with our new friends, the Nadeaus. We had a great time and the kids all love each other. What a blessing they are to our family!

Halloween (2011)

2011-11-03T07:55:00.002-04:00

This is how I took the kids to school on Halloween. It was intended to embarrass Jacob, but ended up with him introducing me to his teacher as his attorney. It was definitely a success. I fooled many people, including my cousin, who wondered who "the dude was with Michelle's kids." Her son told her it was me and she did not believe it. I guess I made a good man.

Pumpkin Carving (2011)

2011-11-03T07:52:00.002-04:00

This year only Jadyn and Grant carved pumpkins. Jadyn loved it. Grant hated it, especially when I shoved his hand into the guts.

2011-10-29T10:08:00.001-04:00

Started Making CHRISTmas Gifts

2011-10-29T10:07:00.000-04:00

Trip to the Cider Mill with Mimi and Papa

2011-10-29T10:03:00.002-04:00

Lots to Update

2011-10-29T09:25:00.007-04:00

I have so much to update. I think I need to be a bit more diligent. So this post will cover a couple of weeks and will, most definitely, not be in chronological order. But, I guess, you would never know.

A week ago, the 19 year old daughter of my parent's friends, died in a car accident. My heart has been breaking for them. I can't imagine, and don't want to. They have obviously been grieving, but what I didn't expect (and am not sure why I didn't) was how it would impact my own parents. It is as if their wounds from B.T. have been ripped wide open. Not only can the empathize with their friends and grieve with them, their own hearts are gushing blood again. I hate this. I hate how this hurts them.

My grandma went into the hospital and has been there a couple of weeks. They think she may have had a couple of strokes and she has fallen and broken a couple of bones in her back. The doctor says she really can't live alone anymore. My mom has been dealing with this too. Grandma does not want to give up her independence, but she really isn't independent anymore.

Greg went into the hospital this week. He had a terrible bout of diverticulitis and had to spend a night in the hospital, getting IV antibiotics. We REALLY have to change how he eats. I know this attack was brought on by poppy seed chicken and corn. Those are off the menu.

Jacob, Grace and Jadyn all had field trips within the last week. Jacob and Grace went to the pool, and Jadyn went to the cider mill. I guess I can put in the pics here.

Jadyn woke up one morning and came to my bedroom and told me that her "nose was all hogged." She meant clogged. I guess it was more funny to see her tell me than is comes across here.

I have made a new friend - and I am very happy about it. She is the mother of one of Grace's friends. Each time we talk, we seem to have more and more in common. The best thing? We have Jesus in common. Thank you LORD, for my new friend, Stephanie.

Oh.....I almost forgot one of the MOST exciting things that has happened to me recently. The night that Greg came home from the hospital (thank you, Papa) I went out to run some errands. One of them was to go to Target for a return. I really try to limit my trips to Target because I want a pair of Converse tennis shoes and Greg keeps telling me to wait until CHRISTmas. While I was there, I ran into my friend, Kristy - Kenton's (Jadyn's old boyfriend) mom. We have not seen each other in a while and stood there talking for about 30 minutes. I miss hanging out with her - she is now homeschooling. We keep talking about getting together for lunch, but never quite seem to make it happen. We really have to get on that. But...over the course of our conversation, I told her about why I limit my trips to Target. Fastforward to the next morning, and my kids were shouting that there was a present on the front porch. We all thought we were "boo-ed", because we are so close to Halloween. When I opened the door, I saw a card inside. I took it out and it said my name on it. Weird, I thought. Who would have left this? I opened the card and the sobbing began. It was from Kristy. And, it was a pair of Converse tennis shoes! What a sweetheart. The card said some very nice words about me - words that I really don't deserve. Words that can only be said of the good that comes from Christ. I did spend the entire morning crying. I was so overwhelmed by her generosity. And I was overwhelmed by the way God provided for me. I know this is such a small deal, but like I explained to Jacob.....how would you feel if someone left an Ipod Touch on the front porch? He said, " I would love it!" I told him that now he knew how I felt. Kristy is an amazing friend - and not because of the shoes. But what I love about this is how God worked it out. That still has me completely dumb-founded. I love my GOD so much! And, here again, not because of the shoes (although they are a nice bonus). He loves me so much. What matters to me matters to Him. It doesn't always mean I get what I want. Rather, it means, I get what gives Him glory. Praise His Holy Name!!!!

Prayer ALWAYS Helps

2011-10-15T19:55:00.002-04:00

Funny how that is, huh?

Tonight, I was putting the boys to bed......20 minutes early......because I was sick and freaking tired of their fighting. Also an interesting thing. My 9 year old and my 3 year old fighting. So, I was sitting on their beds and did not feel like singing to them. I did not feel like praying. I just wanted them to sleep and be quiet. Nevertheless, I prayed. First, telling God that I simply did not want to pray and that I was sick of them fighting. Then, I prayed for my own forgiveness, for being crabby and impatient and plain tired. As I prayed, I felt the irritation slipping away. Next, I prayed for forgiveness for the boys, for their fighting and crabbiness. Before I knew it, Grant was lying his head in my lap. Then he was climbing up me. How could I continue to be irritated and angry. These are MY boys and I love them so much. Yes, they can certainly irritate me. But, I know I can also irritate them. But, God has really given us an amazing relationship. I firmly believe this is because HE is the center of it.

The boys are in bed. The girls are reading to each other. Greg is sitting across from me reading something - out loud. It makes it VERY HARD for me to concentrate on what I am typing, so I will go before my irritation comes back with a vengeance. Night.

Thankfulness Abounds

2011-10-14T08:55:00.003-04:00

I have so much to be thankful for. But if you have read one word I have said, I think you might already know that. But, I cannot express enough the greatness, faithfulness and love of my God. As I was sitting here paying bills last night, thinking we are never going to make it, worrying about how to pay all the bills.....I realized that every single month our bills are paid. Every. Single. Month. Period. God is so good to us. We could never earn this type of provision, this type of love. It is truly unbelievable. Greg makes less money than he has in years and yet, by the wonderful grace of God, we still eat, are clothed and housed and even do some fun things. I am certainly feeling content, despite the attempts to look at houses yesterday.

(As a footnote to this....a dear friend asked me yesterday if I was "forcing" contentment on the house front. I can easily and truthfully answer "no" to this. Clearly, I would like my own house, but I also realize that right where I am now is exactly where God has put me and when it is time for me (my family) to move from here, He will let us know.)

So, I looked at a house yesterday. Actually I looked at 3. Funny thing is, I was supposed to look at 7 - and 4 of them canceled! And....as if that was not enough, while I was at the first one, I received a call from the school that Grace was in the office with a migraine headache - the exact thing that happened the last time I was looking at houses during the day. I thought, OK LORD, do you really want me to stop looking at houses? I kind of figured yes. So I told Greg about the houses and he really couldn't talk and didn't really seem to care, but later in the day he called me and wanted me to schedule to see this one house - so he could see it. As I was in the process of scheduling it, I received an email with information on that house. The price had just dropped! OK, now what was I to think? Is this yes? Is this no? Is this proceed with caution? I am very confused. Greg seemed to like the house but if we were to do it it would have to be for much less than the asking price. So we will just see what materializes.

(I feel like my thought pattern is all over the place today - sorry.)

Another thing I have to be especially thankful for is.....my marriage. Greg said in church on Wednesday night that our moving to Illinois, even though it was difficult, was the best thing to happen to our marriage and our family. And I totally agree. Then yesterday I was talking with a friend who lives in our old subdivision and she was telling me about some people who were getting a divorce. The sad thing about this is that it is like divorce is spreading through that subdivision like a disease. There are so many couples that have gotten divorced or are in the process, since we left, it is scary. Yet, God had a plan for us. Am I saying that we would have ended up divorced is we stayed there? I don't know and honestly, I don't care. God took (OK ripped) us from there and planted us in an area with fresh (soybean processing smelling) air and allowed us to grow. Not only as a couple and as a family, but most importantly, in Him. I LOVE THIS MORE THAN ANYTHING!!!!! It is so cool to look back and see God's hand all over your life.

Can Jesus Be Demanded into Your Heart?

2011-10-11T20:18:00.002-04:00

I was just talking with the girls and Jadyn asked who was better God or Jesus. I explained how they are the same, yet different, and that Jesus is who died for our sins. He is who we ask into our hearts. I told her that he will return one day and take us to heaven to live with Him forever. She said, "I don't want to go to heaven forever." I said, "Well, the only other place is....*nod, nod*.....you know....hell." Grace chirped in, "You do not want to go there. It is terrible." Jadyn looked at me, she looked up and said, very matter-of-factly, "Jesus......GET INTO MY HEART." I told her that maybe, just maybe she might want to ask. Who knows? If her heart is right, that is all that matters. I just think she could ask Jesus a little nicer. That's all I'm saying. However, she did immediately cover her face, and within a few seconds she said that she asked Jesus into her heart in her mind. I told her is doesn't really matter how you ask or even what you say. God knows your heart. He knows when you are serious and when you are being silly. What a precious night for a mom!

On My Mind.....

2011-10-10T09:12:00.003-04:00

1. The house thing again. I can't shake the desire for my own place. I keep praying that if this is wrong, that God will change my heart. Either I am way too stubborn, or it is not wrong. I will continue to pray.
2. Tanner - Shelbi and Dylan. Sweet baby born 10-3-11, 16 weeks early, 1lb 6 oz, Fighting hard.
3. Tracey Sahouri and her family.
4. Myana Komaromi and her health.
5. Carolyn and the stresses in her family.
6. Loralee and the loss of her mom.
7. Lisa and her family situation.
8. Marileen's daughter, Connie and her daughter, Grace.
9. My kids and their choice in friends.
10. Finances.
11. Salvation of my family and friends that do not know Jesus.
12. Laura on bed rest.
13. All the rest of my pregnant peeps: Becky, Julie, Jacki.

Clearly, there is more, but these are the things weighing most heavily as of this moment. Just in case you wanted to know. God knows.....and that is all that really matters. What matters to me, matters to Him. I so love than about Him.

Another prayer is that I will remain a humble servant of my LORD. I have a tendency (with 2 specific people) to get a secret competitiveness inside. I hate that so much. I am praying that God will change my heart in regard to this. I have no reason to compete with anyone on anything. I am so blessed and I never want pride or arrogance to get in the way.

My heart after yours LORD.

I need to embrace our family motto:

LOVE GOD,
LOVE OTHERS,
LOVE YOURSELF.
(In that order)

Maestro, If You Please......

2011-10-10T09:09:00.001-04:00

I walked in on Grant playing the piano this morning. He was playing the way he was taught - one finger at a time - no banging. The song actually had a nice sound to it. Then he started the lyrics. He sang, "I love my Grandpa. I love my Grandpa." I was the sweetest thing. I just wish Grandpa would have seen/heard it. Or that I would have had time to get my camera before he caught me watching him.

On a Lighter Note.......

2011-10-06T14:31:00.003-04:00

Monday, Grant and I were at grandma and grandpa's house, visiting grandma. As I was sitting on the bed talking to my mom, I didn't realize that Grant had started drawing on the picture of a girl that Grace had just colored for Grandma. When I finally noticed what he was doing, I quickly stopped him and asked what he was doing. He replied, "I'm giving her boobs." WHAT?!? How do you even know what that is? He is only 3 for crying out loud!

Later that evening, at dinner, I was re-capping the days events. I started telling the story to my family and my sister's friend Kristie (who was over to test Grace, but I digress). When I got to the boobs part, Jacob, who had just taken a huge drink of milk, gave those of us lucky enough to be sitting across from him, a milk shower. Completely covered the table, myself and Kristie. Nice, Jacob. Real nice. This was immediately followed by outrageous roars of laughter. A very fine evening at the Pawlak household, if I do say so myself. So much for fine dining.

Carry One Another's Burdens

2011-10-06T13:43:00.004-04:00

All I really want to do is rest. Ever have days like that? We are coming off the emotional roller coaster of mom's surgery, and we have hopped right back onto another TWO wild rides.

The first of which has to do with my own kiddos. There is some "stuff" going on around our school - our second home, if you will. There are some accusations and legal proceedings, of which I know nothing, taking place. What I do know is that the person being attacked is nothing if not professional and proper and kind. I am really appalled at what is going on. Now let me be the first to say.....I was not present at the above-mentioned incident. I do not know what, if anything, happened. Nor....at this point....do I care. What may or may not have happened in this situation, has ZERO impact on how this person performs her, yes she is a woman, job. In fact, I only recently learned about what is going on - and this has been going on since the beginning of summer. There has been absolutely no stutter in her step. She has consistently been present and done her job in a way that is absolutely professional. And....if that was not bad enough....some COWARD had the nerve to contact the "MEAP police" and "anonymously" tell them that our school - MY school - was cheating. Seriously? If you really thought there was something going and, and had proof of it, wouldn't you feel confident enough to leave your name? And wouldn't the first step be to go the person? Wait......that is in a world where people have common sense and know what is "right" to do. Sorry if I sound cynical, but this just really cheeses me off. I have nothing but respect for this person being accused. She is not only having herself dragged through the mud, but also her career and even her own family. That is W-R-O-N-G on so many levels. What is even more interesting (absolutely not....it is completely by the GRACE OF GOD), is that yesterday, when the "MEAP police" were present at school - checking to see if we were cheating (which is definitely a good thing, when it is warranted) - I happened to be there. Wednesday is my day to be at school, working for my kid's teachers. I knew something was up because there were all kinds of meetings going on. Around 3pm, I was asked if 2 of my kids would talk to the investigators. Because I feel confident that MY school is not hiding anything, I allowed my kids to talk. Of course, I was with them and so was another child and parent. What I did not like about the interview was the investigator trying to lead the kids on in what to say. Things like asking them how they "did" math. When the kids told them they did packets (like they have always done), the investigators were like, "tell us more about the packets. Where did they come from?" Oh, come on. Really? The kid knows that? I was very bothered about the whole incident. I came home and sent an email to the person, telling her I was so sorry this happened, and that we were behind her and we would be praying for her and her family. Which we will and are. Then, this morning as I was reading the Bible, I read Psalms 59, and I could not help but think of this person again. So, to the computer I ran again and sent her another email - attempting to encourage her from here. I took my kids to school and came back home. As soon as I walked into the house, I noticed that Jacob had left his snack. Being the dutiful mom that I am, I drove back up to the school with it. Secretly, I also hoped to talk to this person. Again, by THE GRACE OF GOD, I was able to spend a few minutes talking with her. My purpose was to let her know we were standing behind her, and that we were praying for her, and to remind her that truth always wins. What I really wanted to say and didn't was......God always wins!!!! Praise His NAME!!!

I am carrying a burden for this woman. We are not what I would consider "friends", although she seems to be the kind of person I would be friends with. I care deeply for her. She has a tremendous impact on my children and this cannot be trusted to just anyone. I pray that God's will will be done in this situation and that all the kid's at MY school will come out of this unharmed. This includes hers.

LORD, please strengthen and encourage this woman. Let her know that YOU are "our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." (Psalm 46:1) Help her to rely, not on her own understanding, but solely on YOU - the Creator of All that Is. Praise You forever!

The second ride has to do with the grand-daughter of a friend. She left home to live with her grandma. Her grandma gave until there was no more to give and the girl finally ran from there. She ended up in the U.P., and apparently since then got married and pregnant. 3 days ago and 16 weeks early, she gave birth to a little boy (Tanner) who weighs 1 lb 6 oz. The pictures of this precious baby are heart-wrenching. What is worse.....to think of the life this sweet baby may have. If, and that is a huge if, he does not have physical problems from being born so early, he has the ridiculous challenge of being raised by someone who is hardly more than a child herself. With age having nothing to do with it, this precious girl was never really parented herself, so she can't possibly have any idea of where to start. Now, I know this sounds really rotten. And I know it is. But I also know it is the truth. But.....what I also know is that we serve the One Who Overcame. God sent His Son to overcome death, to overcome sin......believe me when I say, God most certainly can overcome this possible perpetual circle of un-parenting. I remember sitting at my kitchen table with this girl, trying to set up a schedule for her for when she went to college. Trying to help her get through college successfully. We were all so happy that she graduated high school, and she felt like no believed in her.....that she could do college. She was determined to prove them all wrong. THAT is why this is so sad. She did EXACTLY as people thought she would. It was like as soon as she got there, she just gave up. Told herself she couldn't do anything more. Believed the lies of the devil. She absolutely could have done so much. Now...she HAS to. There is no time more important for her to grow up and prove everybody wrong, than there is right now. She has this precious new life, hanging in the balance, to care for. She NEEDS to grown up FAST. She needs to be the momma. Tanner needs her - badly!

Jesus, sweet Jesus, PLEASE help this girl realize how important this time is in her life. Please help her grow up. Please remove the scales of past failures from her eyes and help her to see the possibilities of this new future. Jesus, please protect that baby, however you must. I pray for strong lungs and heart, strong brain waves, and a vibrant will to survive for that precious child.

"Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." Galatians 6:2

Bountiful Blessings

2011-10-03T06:39:00.004-04:00

What a busy weekend it has been! Friday night we had a fun time eating and watching baseball with Doug, Edy and their girls. Saturday evening I was supposed to go with my mom to my grandma's house to spend the night and help prepare for my cousin's shower on Sunday. Notice I said "supposed to". Saturday morning Greg, most of the kids and I went and looked at pop-up campers. While we were there I received a phone call from my mom, telling me she was in the hospital. I said, "Seriously?!? You're lying." She said, "No, Michelle, I'm not." She ended up having to have her gall bladder removed in an emergency surgery. While surgery of any kind is not any fun, we were really blessed by this one. First of all.....it was Saturday. That meant a few things. One...there was no one else in the surgical unit but us. Two...Greg was home so he could watch my kiddos. Praise the LORD ~ everything went well with her surgery (which started at noon, and she was home in bed by 3pm - wow!) I made the phone calls letting people know we would not be at the shower, but my mom kept saying that she wanted to go. I finally told her we would see how she felt around 11am on Sunday and decide from there. When I got to her house on Sunday, she looked way better. And she was going to the shower. So......we went. It was a beautiful shower and my mom was so happy that she was able to go - I think her family was too. I know I was glad for her. But by the time we got home, she was past ready for bed. While I didn't get to have the night away at grandma's with my mom, we certainly spent quite a bit of time together this weekend. I was so blessed to have been able to be there to help her. I was also blessed by my Aunt Gayle, who sat at the hospital with me, then brought over homemade chicken noodle soup later that night. What a treasure. Then Carolyn brought over chicken and rice for dinner the next night - yes.....another blessed treasure to our family. My mom's friend, Georgette, came up to the ER and was sitting with my mom until I got there. She is an awesome lady too. Oh, how God has blessed us with wonderful family and friends. Where was my dad, you are asking? Home. Working with Jacob. Now.....before you go getting mad...hear me out. He is not real good in situations where my mom is hurt. AND....he knows that I will be there. She did not want anyone at the hospital with her and he respected that - I did not. I was not allowing her to be alone. Basically, it was the pain talking and that was what my dad was listening to. It really worked out good. Another blessing from the LORD. My dad had Jacob to keep him occupied, so that he wasn't driving me crazy at the hospital. And I was able to care for my mom the way she wanted. When she got home, dad came in and took over. He is much better in that environment.

In the meantime, Jacob made a travel basketball team. We were not trying to do that, but, well.....we'll see. He was supposed to be going for evaluations for the rec league. Apparently, I got the dates mixed up and yesterday was tryouts for travel. Greg decided that since he was already there, he might as well try. Parents were not allowed in the gym at all. This was something different for us. About halfway through, the coach came out to Greg and said that Jacob was on the team. He also said that Jacob was not the best player, but with his aggressiveness and height, he could be coached into a great player. Wow! That was awesome to hear! We always knew Jacob was awesome! While we were not intending to enter into the world of travel sports, apparently that is where God wanted us. I pray for protection over Jacob, great growth in Jacob as a young man and as a basketball player, and that God would use us for His glory in that league.

So, you see, it has been a VERY busy weekend. Praise God for His blessings!

The devil's Lies

2011-09-23T06:26:00.004-04:00

I have come to the conclusion that the devil is trying to take one of the ONLY good things about me and make me believe that it is bad. Let me explain.....

1. Friend's mom's house - As I told you earlier, my friend's mom just passed away. On the heels of that I was thinking about the house. You already know the story.....but you also know that ALL my thoughts were not about myself only. I was thinking about how it would be mutually beneficial to both of us. But my thoughts are hovering around the part where it is only about me. I believe the devil is trying to make me feel bad about this - the old guilt thing - when it really is not something to feel bad about.

2. Aunt's coffee cups - I have an issue with pretty coffee cups. You know the kind....they are china looking, usually have a flower or something on them and feel very delicate. Experience has proven that coffee ALWAYS tastes better in a pretty cup. So, every time I pass an "antique" or "collectible" place, I think about the cups. Yesterday, I drove past a place and was thinking about cups. And, for whatever reason, my thoughts drifted to an aunt of mine that has no daughters. I thought "Who will take care of her when she gets old? Who will take care of her stuff when she...you know.....?" Then my mind instantly went to the coffee cups. She has coffee cups. Oh my gosh! I hated every part of myself at that moment. How could I go from concern about someone I love to utter selfish thinking. This is where I think the devil was trying to get me again. He wants me to think that the real reason I was thinking about caring for my aunt was to get the freaking cups. Holy cow! I am so ticked! I would never want to get something (besides things are just that - things) because someone died.

3. Lady in Bed, Bath and Beyond - Wednesday I was in BBB to get a gift. I was waiting at customer service to get the registry printed off, and there was an older lady in front of me speaking with the service representative. I listened to the conversation and, honestly, was getting irritated because I had somewhere to be, like 10 minutes ago. But I did my best to at least look patient on the outside. After a few minutes of them going back and forth about these chair covers - sold as a set of 2, but one was broken - and neither one of them getting what the other was saying, I stepped forward. I explained to the service rep that the covers were sold in a set of 2 (she did not know that despite the fact that she was holding the package in her hand) and then I explained to the lady that when she returned the broken one, she had to return both because they were sold in a set. That was what she thought, but the service rep kept telling her to "bring in the broken one and she could exchange it". Afterwards, the lady thanked me and then explained why she was so frazzled. She had just lost her husband and had lost 2 kids before that. And then she said she was [waved her hand back and forth by her head]....which I took to mean either just frazzled or literally losing her mind via Alzheimer's. Whatever the case, I just wrapped my arms around her and gave her a hug. She was so thankful. It was a very sweet moment. Then I was wondering should she be driving? Will she get home safe? Does she have anyone to take care of her? Later in the day, I thought I would go back and take one of my business cards and leave it with the chairs covers she was going to come back for. In case she needed someone.....to talk, or help or whatever. But then came the thoughts again.....you just want her to know who you are. You just want to have attention drawn to yourself. AUGH! No - that is not it.

So, you see, I have really been having issues with this. Lord Jesus, I pray right now, in Your Holy Name, that You would forgive me for buying into the lies of the devil. I pray that EVERY thought I have would be taken captive by You. That my thoughts would be pure, honest, and glorifying to you. Lord, help me not to be deceived by the deceiver, but to hold to what I know is truth. I am created in Your image and I belong to You alone. You are my Light, my Refuge, my Strong Tower, my Savior, my Friend, my Protector, my EVERYTHING. Please, Lord Jesus, help me overcome the lies of the devil. Help me to use the gifts and talents You have given me to bring You glory all the days of my life. Thank You, LORD! Amen.

Grace's Deep Thoughts

2011-09-20T20:52:00.004-04:00

Last night Grace had a breakdown and Greg had to handle it, as I was out. She was upset about getting old. I wondered if it was because I was a a memorial service for a friend's mom. This morning I asked her about it, but she was adamant about not wanting to talk to me about it. Finally, tonight, as I was putting the girls to bed, she told me she was ready to tell me. She is really scared about getting old. She does not want to be away from her family. She was telling me that next year (and she even explained to me that she knew a year was a long time) Jacob would be onto to a new school and it would just be her and Jadyn at the school and she would be the oldest from our family. Then she would leave and it would just be Jadyn and Grant. Bless her sweet big sister's heart - she did not want to leave her younger siblings behind. She continued telling me that she would grow up and Jacob, Jadyn and Grant would all be somewhere else and she would not be with Dad and me and she would just be all alone. I tried explaining to her that, most likely, she would not be alone. She would have friends, a boyfriend (heaven help me) and eventually she would probably get married. She really would not be alone. I also reminded her that even when there really is no one around her and she is all alone, she really is not. God never leaves us or forsakes us. He who watches over us never sleeps or slumbers. So anytime she feels nervous or anxious about being alone, certainly she can always talk to me and I want her to, but she should know that God loves her more than anything and He will always be there.

After this, our conversation turned to school. She reminded me of when I had told her that someday they would hear things at school that are not the complete truth. And then she told me that she heard something today that she knew was not the truth. Her teacher was talking to them about how bridges and roads are man-made things and that things like lakes and mountains are made by nature. "Well, I know that that is a lie because God made those things, not nature." So then I had to discuss how God is the Creator of all nature....nature does not create itself, but nature does exist and things like lakes and mountains are natural things that are created by God.

My sweet Grace is so amazing. The things that her mind thinks of simply astound me. She is so young to have such deep, serious thoughts. I am so thrilled, though, to see God's truth being hid in her heart. I am so thankful that she is aware of and paying attention to things that don't sound right. I am so thankful that she is thinking for herself instead of just following around behind whoever seems to be out in front. Thank you Lord, for Grace's heart, soul and mind. I pray that You would use the gifts You have given her for Your Glory! Praise Your Holy Name!

Oh Geez....

2011-09-20T06:39:00.006-04:00

Guess what? I am struggling again. I am struggling with hypocrisy - my own. I want to "be in the light, as he is in the light", so that whatever is sinful can be exposed. This current battle is over...well I am not sure how to put it. I want a house. My own house. I think what I really want is to feel settled, even if that is a false sense of settlement. I come across ideas and think that THIS would be really good for me. And then, oh my arrogance, I try to convince God that this is what is best. I am so ashamed to even type that. I know He knows what is best for me. I know He has it planned already. But then my stupid humanness takes over and *poof* I have become more of an expert than God is. How sick. I want God's will for my life - I do. So, why is it that I also want what I think is best for me? Why am I wanting at all? God has provided infinitely more for me than I could ever deserve, yet I still find myself yearning for what I do not have. Contentment. There is something, huh?

Last night, I found myself trying to push for my own desires. I have a friend who just lost her mom. She lived here in my town. She lived right next door to one of my best friends. Since all of my thoughts are on where I am going to live (sick again), I instantly thought of that house. But let me say this.....all of my thoughts were not all about me in this one - honestly. While I liked the idea of possibly getting a house in my town, near my friend, and maybe without the hindrance of a realtor (sorry to those who make their living this way)....the truth is I was thinking about her too. I assumed that they would have to get rid of the house. I thought about how it would be nice (considering the current market) if they could sell it to someone directly, quickly and that this someone would love and care for the house that her mom had lived in and loved. Seems like a lot of thinking for something as simple as a house, right? Trust me.....you don't even want to know what goes on in this mind.

So, I have these thoughts going on in my mind, but the most powerful thought is "I do not want to hurt my friend." She has just lost her momma. I can't just ask if she wants to sell her house. I don't know what to do. Then I find myself talking to WAY TOO MANY people about this......at her mom's memorial service! Am I a class-act idiot or what? I left the memorial bawling. Not because I was sad that she died - I mean, she was finally with her Lord and Savior, not in any more pain - I was rejoicing over that. I was bawling at my lack of.......not sure of the word. How could I even be so selfish to think about something like that at a time like that? How shameful. I talked to my mom and Carolyn afterwards, and they tried to convince me that I did nothing wrong. Yet, I still felt like crap. So, I got to thinking.....WHY is this on my mind like it is? Am I just forcing it on myself, or am I supposed to be thinking this for a reason? It all goes back to God's will. I needs to shut my mouth and open my ears. I have been praying, but maybe I have not been praying the right thing. God knows I would like my own house....here....so my kids don't have to move schools again.

(This is now the next day...) And I have decided to just drop this. I have to be content exactly where I am. Thankful for all I have been blessed with. God has more than provided in the past and I have absolutely no reason to doubt that He will continue. It certainly may not be what I think of, but then again, it just may. But, my friends, that is up to God.

Literal Jadyn

2011-09-13T20:17:00.002-04:00

Jadyn is so literal. She sure makes me smile. Tonight we were talking about her speech teacher coming and taking her out of her class. I was not entirely sure what she was talking about, and Grace said, "Mom, I can tell you what happened. Mrs. Chapman came to Jadyn's class and pulled Jadyn out..." To which Jadyn quickly responded, "No, she did not PULL me out. She walked out next to me and held my hand!" What a literal girl!

Morning Slave

2011-09-13T07:15:00.002-04:00

This morning I asked Jacob to unload the silverware from the dishwasher. When he asked why, I said because he is my slave. He then told me that he would just take the slave tunnel and get away from me. That made me laugh. I asked him where he learned about that and he said in music class.

2011-09-09T21:43:00.003-04:00

Jacob has been up by 6:15 am every day this week, most specifically getting into the shower. I think I have some more insight to Jacob's recent hygiene routine change. Tonight as I was putting him to bed, he grabbed me and wrapped his arms around me. Then he said he would let me go, if I said the magic words. I started with "I love my Mom", he said no. Then I tried "pizza", he said no. Then he said "It is easy." I said "My mom is beautiful", again he said no. Then he told me the magic words. It was "Ms. Murphy" - that is his teacher's name. I think we might have our first crush. Maybe.

Pictures from First Day

2011-09-06T20:46:00.001-04:00

First Day of School (2011-2012)

2011-09-06T06:54:00.005-04:00

I was up at 4:27am. I went to the gym, came home, made coffee, showered, dressed, made 4 lunches, wrote 3 love notes, drank coffee and had devotions with Greg, prayed, read my Bible, then heard Jacob run downstairs. It was 6:17am and he came in the kitchen and said "I am ready! I need to get in the shower so that I can get dressed." What?!? He was so excited. Not only did he shower, but he also told me that he needed to use "Dad's mouthwash and armpit stuff". As I was in the bathroom drying my hair, Jacob came in a "primped" for about 10 minutes. He sprayed, brushed, dried, sprayed, brushed, gelled, sprayed, spiked and then put his hair in a point in the front. Then he stood there and kept looking at himself. Checking the different angles. It took all I had not to laugh because he was so serious. Every time he looked at me I just smiled back at him. It still makes me giggle. I imagined I would have this with one, if not both, of my girls. I never figured it would come from Jacob. He was the only one who really laid out clothes last night too. Even down to his shoes. He came in and told me he like his lunch. I knew he would check that out. Today he got leftover pizza instead of a sandwich, which I knew would please him. Then he asked me why I put his goldfish in a bowl with a lid instead of a baggie. I told him it was so that they did not get crushed by his ice pack. He then asked if he could put them "in a rubbermaid". I told him he could if he wanted. He left to go try, but when I walked into the kitchen I saw that he had put them back into the original bowl. I did not say a word. The rubbermaid was too big.

When I went into the kitchen, I saw that Grant was up (6:45am). He was following Jacob around, asking, "You going to school, J-pup?" Jacob kept telling him yes.

Grace just got up (6:55am), just before her alarm (which did not even go off). Oh! The alarm just started going. Hopefully this will wake Jadyn up. Last night, she said that she would "want to sleep long" because her "bed was warm and cozy". She was not sure if she would like school. She said if she did not like it, she was "not going back".

Well, more later. Everyone's up now. Time to get started.

The New Piano

2011-09-04T21:17:00.002-04:00

We are the proud new owners of a piano. This piano was given to us by Aunt Gayle, in addition to a bunch of other household goods. She REALLY blessed us! Grace is so excited to start piano lessons. In fact, she has already learned "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear", from the music sheet I learned on when I was younger and taught myself. Then Aunt Gayle came over and taught Grace how to play "Amazing Grace" on the black keys. She picked it up so fast, I was totally amazed at Grace (pun intended). But what was even neater than that was that the day after Grace learned on the black keys, she taught herself how to play on the white keys. Totally impressed. She is so determined though. When she gets up in the morning, the FIRST thing she does is head to the piano to practice. I can't wait to see how she does with her lessons. They start next week.....I'll keep you posted.

Trusting God in School (Upper Room Devotion)

2011-08-29T05:43:00.003-04:00

Yesterday I felt the need to pray for my kids for their upcoming school year. I prayed for them and their teachers, but most specifically for their friends. None of my kids have any real good friends. So, my prayer was for good Christian friends - I am talking about REAL friends. Not the kind that come and go, but real friends. I pray that my kids will make an impact (for the good) on other kids.

So, last night at 10:15pm, I sat down to do my devotions. Late? Yes. But I still did them, right? What was so cool about it though, was God spoke directly through that devotion to my mother's heart. The Scripture was from Matthew 7:7-11:

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. “Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!

Ask and it will be given to you. My Father in heaven will give good gifts to those who ask. I am asking and He is speaking. Praise God in Heaven that He is the Ultimate Father. The One who knows how to give even better gifts. There are not words that could explain the elation I went to bed with last night. My Father in Heaven is eternally praised!

Oh yeah! And the devotion was from a 10 year old boy, who trusted his school year to the Lord. Hello? And then the prayer focus was for elementary school students. Oh praise the Name of Jesus!

Want the truth? I really prayed for Jacob. Yes, I prayed for all my kids because I want this for them all. But, my Jacob seems to have the most difficulty making friends. Maybe it is because all his life he has had a best friend in his cousin. Maybe it is because he is first-born and is a bit like his mother. Whatever it is, I do not know, but I do know Who can help him overcome. The One who overcame the grave. Jesus, Savior, Lord, Friend. Forever.

A "REAL" Estate Investment

2011-08-24T21:08:00.005-04:00

Today was our entrance into the world of real estate investing. And, almost as quickly as we entered, we exited. Through the course of Greg meeting people at his new job, we found out about a house that was going for auction, that is near the area where we would like to live. So, for the last few months, we have been researching (and protecting) this house. We have shielded this house from scandalous realtors and even got to put up the foreclosure notice (although this is not as glamorous as you might think). Yesterday, we were faced with information that we had not researched. This did not entirely affect what our plans were for today, but it certainly made us a little nervous. We have prayed and researched and prayed and researched and then prayed some more about this. Personally, I think that I knew that we should not go to the auction, but I kept pushing this to the back of my mind, because I thought that getting this house would be the absolute right thing. However, in the course of my prayers, I prayed that God would really slam the door shut if this was not supposed to happen. Well, talk about answered prayers! And, I had 2 of them today - that I know of! I will have to go out of order to tell you about them though. So, back to the slamming door. The minimum bid for this house was $400. When the bidding began, the guy behind me said $400. I quickly responded with $500, and almost before the words left my mouth, some other guy from a group (which I think were from the bank) yelled out $20,000! So, since this was my threshold for what I was going to spend, I knew I was out. But what an immediate answer. We sat through so many bidding wars on other properties that went back and forth in $50 and $100 increments. To have ONLY our property jump immediately from $500 to $20,000 was unheard of. God was definitely in that place (but what place is He not in, really?)

The other answer was really kind of neat. As my mom and I were waiting in the hallway to register, I prayed out loud, but under my breath, that I would meet a nice Christian person that I could talk to. I meant that I could talk to about the auction, but God certainly had other plans. Within minutes, this family came up next to us and were talking amongst themselves. I overheard the mom telling the others (dad, son, grandpa and grandma) that they just needed to pray. Oooooohhhh! My ears perked up! I stepped into the middle of their circle and said, " I think we are going about this thing the same way." We instantly connected and after a few moments of talking the mom decided to go out to the courtyard to pray. I watched her go and decided to follow after her. I sat down next to her, put my arm around her and started to pray. I love how the Spirit works, especially when we are obedient, right? She then told me her whole story and she NEEDED the house they were bidding on in a major way. I told her I would pray for her, and I did, but sadly they did not win the property. I still pray that something will work out for her family. But God provided me with EXACTLY what I prayed for - someone, who is a Christian, that I could talk to.

It was a VERY intense day. I was excited, nervous, terrified and amazed all at the same time. In fact, after mom and I walked out of the hotel, I started shaking. We even had to changed seats and have her drive home because (I think) the adrenaline release was WAY TOO MUCH. I am very much at peace about this situation. It did not turn out the way I had hoped, but I know that this is God's will for us and THAT is right where I want to be. Praise the Lord of all the Earth! Praise His Name Forever! I really did not think this part of the process would be so easy, but praise God, it is!

Back from Vacation

2011-08-16T06:23:00.003-04:00

I still have to tell you all about our Oscoda trip, but first I have to do some thinking. I am back. Back to routine. The 37 loads of laundry are done AND put away (almost). The 1/2 of the beach that we brought home with us has been swept from the laundry room floor and been properly discarded. I have been back to the gym for 2 days now and, most importantly, I am back to my early mornings with God and coffee. THAT is where I really love to be. We have, just since we have been home, experienced a lot of sad things. An acquaintance from our old church (and mother of 4 precious kids) lost her battle with lung cancer and passed away. Another friend's father-in-law died very unexpectedly. And yesterday, we notice a baby bunny living in our backyard that is covered with tumors. Why, you ask, does that have anything to do with anything? It was Grace's words that made me think about it. We have Spencer and Seth here too, so that made 6 kids staring out the window at this baby bunny, wondering exactly what these big red lumps on its legs meant. The main question was.....was it going to die? I am not a vet, much less an animal expert, or even an animal lover, so I told the kids that I had no idea, but sometimes people and animals die from things like that. And sometimes they don't. So Grace says to the other kids, "Let's just watch a movie, so we can forget about it." Was she heartless in this response? Heck no! She was trying to divert her sadness. She was trying to be strong for the other kids. I think this is what we do too. I know for a fact that I do it. I think I still do it today when I think about my own brother. Especially when people talk about BT around my mom, I know I do it. Divert the sadness. But we are supposed to feel sadness. Do I want to? Absolutely not! But, we live in a world, beautiful as it is, that is fallen and broken. We live in a world that needs Jesus more than anything. We need to realize it. We need to fall to our knees and seek forgiveness that only comes from the King of Kings - King Jesus. My heart is breaking for those kids that lost their mom. But you know what? Their momma loved the Lord with all her heart and she knew before she died where she was headed. She left a legacy for her kids, so that they too would know, that they too could be prepared. What comfort in a rotten time of grief. Trust me...I've been there. But to know that the end is not the end is a BIG deal. To know that the one you have lost is not lost forever is HUGE. What is sadder than a situation like this one is one in which the people do not know Jesus. Where they do not have a personal relationship with their own Savior. Jesus died for each one of us. He loves us more than we could possibly ever know. He wants to take away our grief and replace it with rejoicing. Think of the difference between a funeral for a person who has a relationship with Jesus and a person who does not. One is a celebration of life, both past life on earth and new life with Christ in Heaven, and the other is sadness and grief and the end. Oh, they are both the earthly end. I am not delusional. This is not false hope. Christ is real and true and living. And He is not just for me. He is for you too. Turn to Him. Fall on your knees before Him. Love Him. Accept Him. He gave His all so you could have everything.

Oscoda 2011

2011-08-15T11:18:00.031-04:00

Drive-in Movie

2011-08-15T10:55:00.002-04:00

Andy and Carrie and their kids, Krystel and her boys, Grandma, my 3 oldest kids and I went to the drive-in movie to see "The Smurfs" and "Zookeeper". Grandma brought Grandpa's backpack sprayer filled with bug spray because the last time we went we were attacked by mosquitoes. Not a single bug touched us this time. We also learned from last time (when we only stayed for one movie of the double feature) to bring LOTS of food and drinks. We had a table set up with all kinds of dessert bars and candy. Andy brought bags of his famous popcorn and we had a cooler filled with pop, water and juice boxes. Both movies were cute, but more importantly the kids had a blast! Some sat in the back of Andy's truck, some laid in beds made in the back of vans and others (who might be a bit too big) sat on their mom's laps. Oh forget it....I loved every minute of it!!!!

Modeling New Clothes

2011-08-15T10:52:00.002-04:00

Everyone wanted to model some new clothes. I could not help myself with the boys. When they all lined up, it looked just like, well......a line-up. A terrible thought, but I still chuckle when I see this picture. I pray that none of them will ever be in a real picture like this.

Girl's Birthday Party (5 & 8)

2011-08-15T10:38:00.006-04:00

The girls had their party at the pool again. As if we would go anywhere else. The day started with Grant and I getting a poolside massage from Greg. How nice, but I sure was glad that I did not break the kids picnic table. Uncle Jeremy brought the bottle launcher that his students made. Grandpa filled the bottles and Jeremy and Greg launched bottles out into the front yard. The kids all stood waiting to catch one because if they did they would get $1. Jacob was the only one who caught any and he caught 2. That was a lot of fun. The biggest hit was Jadyn's lunchbox filled with candy and Grace's bag filled with nail supplies. The girls just flocked! Great idea, Grandpa! It was a beautiful day filled with food, friends, swimming, volleyball and tons of fun.

Jadyn's 5th Birthday

2011-08-15T09:24:00.004-04:00

For Jadyn's 5th birthday, we had Grandma and Grandpa, and Krystel and her boys over for dinner. Jadyn requested macaroni and cheese and corn......so I also made pork chops, because for some members of the family pasta and corn would not cut it. We had "sprinkle" cupcakes with sprinkle frosting. Again, not the first choice of some members of the family, but then again it was not HIS birthday, right, Dad? We had a nice evening and Jadyn got lots of clothes for kindergarten, way too much candy and even a $5 bill (what she was dreaming of).

I hope my butt doesn't hurt

2011-08-15T09:10:00.004-04:00

Greg is going in for his colonoscopy today. He seems a little nervous. He doesn't want a 24 foot snake going in his behind because that's what friends told him on vacation. I think Greg believes his stomach will explode like he is pregnant. Michelle loves to talk to mom about greg's butt. Not sure why she does that ut the guy next to us now knows that I have fissures. Not sure why you want to talk about my poop with people around us. now luaughing about my behind. Another lady just went in for a colonscopy. she didn't look very happy when she was called in. Just found a plug for the computer. It is very important that michelle blog about this wonderful experience. I'm now going to sit until I get put to sleep. Don't want this done butt you got to do what you got to do. over and out.

(written by greg)

A Battle With Sin - Lessons from Romans

2011-07-29T10:34:00.002-04:00

Struggling with Sin (Romans 7: 14-25)

So the trouble is not with the law, for it is spiritual and good. The trouble is with me, for I am all too human, a slave to sin. I don’t really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do what I hate. But if I know that what I am doing is wrong, this shows that I agree that the law is good. So I am not the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it.

And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t. I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway. But if I do what I don’t want to do, I am not really the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it.

I have discovered this principle of life—that when I want to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong. I love God’s law with all my heart. But there is another power[e] within me that is at war with my mind. This power makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me. Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord. So you see how it is: In my mind I really want to obey God’s law, but because of my sinful nature I am a slave to sin.

So.....basically this sums me up. What I want to do, I don't; and what I don't want to do, I do. When I read the footnotes in my NIV Bible, it became more clear to me. I do these things that I do not want to do, then feel terrible about them, then try to change, but always fall back into my sin. The problem is that I am trying to stop myself from sinning. I am a sinner. We all are. And the only way to be free from the power of sin is to turn to Jesus. He is the ONLY WAY. The footnote said, "Jesus Christ, who has conquered sin once and for all, promises to fight by our side. If we look to him, we will not have to give in to sin." There it is. I cannot do it on my own. I have proven this over and over again. Everything in my life needs to be committed to Him, His Will and His plan. EVERYTHING. He Promises to fight by my side. Can you hear this, Michelle? Jesus will fight this for and with you! Turn it over to Him. Even the things that seem to simple to give to a powerful God. Lest I forget that He already has control anyway. So, these areas that I continually fall into sin in are the very areas that I need to be taking before my Lord and Savior, hourly, maybe even minutely. God is faithful - He WILL keep His promises. In that I am very sure.

So Much to Praise Over

2011-07-16T19:21:00.002-04:00

I have had so much good new lately! I am so thankful that God has allowed me to be in this place at this time. Otherwise, I would have missed out on this excitement!

1. I had an opportunity to share Scripture with and pray over a friend who is really in need of God's grace. She is struggling with some MAJOR issues - and God is the ONLY answer.

2. I heard from another wonderful friend that he "may have said a prayer or two". Praise God! I have been praying for him for over 10 years and even though he thinks is doesn't mean much - it sure does! Praise God alone!

3. My momma has an interview! Now, while I hate that she has to work, I am so excited because since she HAS to work, this appears to be a very good fit for her. I pray for God's will in this situation (and every situation and second of my life) and that He will guide her in His path for her.

WOW!!! I am talking about some SERIOUS EXCITEMENT! Praise God from whom all blessings flow!

Photos courtesy of SleepyJean Photography

2011-07-16T18:41:00.008-04:00

God's Love

2011-07-08T10:11:00.002-04:00

Why do I have a hard time understanding God's love for me? It makes perfect sense when I look at my own children. They are not perfect - far from it - but I love them immensely. Why? I love them because they are mine. They are made in my image. I do not love them because of what they can do for me. I simply love them because they are. And....they love me because I love them. Yes, I provide for their needs, but I also discipline them. That is exactly how God's love works. We do not have to do anything. He loves us because we are made in His image - because we are His. He does not love us because we can do something for Him - He needs nothing we can give. Because of His great love for us - so great that He sacrificed His Son to pay the penalty for sins run rampant - we have no choice but to love Him. Oh, some people choose not to, but when I look at that I see nothing but loss. Think of it in terms of the parent-child relationship - and we see this way too often today. The parent that loves the child, provides for the child, disciplines the child, but the child doesn't like it - rather doesn't understand it - so they reject it and run away from it. It is the same way with God. People see (blindly) only the discipline - they forget about all God has provided and His immense love for us. They reject His sacrificed Son and run away from the one thing they need most. I have moved very far from where I was originally headed with this post - basically, looking at my relationship with my children helps me to understand God's unconditional love for me.

Speaking To Me

2011-07-07T07:42:00.002-04:00

I really think that God is speaking to me. I have had something weighing heavy on my mind and heart. I have been praying about it. I have been praying God's will, but I have also been telling God the desire of my heart. Listed below are the Daily Bible Verses I get sent to me email.

July 2, 2011
If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” – Luke 11:13 (NIV)

Good gifts given to those who ask.

July 3, 2011
For Christ did not enter a man-made sanctuary that was only a copy of the true one; he entered heaven itself, now to appear for us in God’s presence. – Hebrews 9:24 (NIV)

Jesus appears before God on my behalf.

July 4, 2011
And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it. – John 14:13-14 (NIV)

Ask in my name.

July 6, 2011
If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you. – John 15:7 (NIV)

Remain in me and ask.

July 7, 2011
If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. – James 1:5-6 (NIV)

Then we get to today, when I was praying over it again. The difference is I really feel that God is working it out. Then this morning I was almost doubting because it is such an amazing thing that I am expecting to take place. I almost feel arrogant to expect it, but then I feel that I am supposed to expect it. Are you confused yet? Yeah, me too. Then I get this DBV telling me to believe and not doubt. I REALLY feel that God is speaking to me. His word is alive and living and speaks to us all the time. I think the devil is trying to put the doubt in my mind to get me to doubt God. I know God is faithful. I know He is going to work in this situation for HIS GLORY. And that, I welcome with arms wide open. I love that I get to have a front row seat to all the God is doing in my life. I am also thankful that I can see that God's plans for me are the best. I am glad that He has opened my eyes.

I am an American Idol (in my dreams, that is)

2011-07-07T07:39:00.002-04:00

Two nights ago, I had a dream that I won American Idol. I was up against a Chinese girl. They called me up to sing when it was not my turn, so I had to run through the back of the stage to get to where I needed to be to sing. Then the song I had to sing was one I had never heard of. So I did my best and slurred a lot of words. You can only imagine my surprise when they announced: "Michelle..........you are........the next American Idol!" Then I woke up. Good grief - what a dream.

Back Talk

2011-07-07T07:37:00.001-04:00

At breakfast the other day, Jacob was getting in trouble for talking back. All of a sudden Grant turns to me and says, "Don't talk to my brudder (brother) like that!" Well, hellllllllllo sassy mouth! Suffice it to say, he also got in trouble.

4th of July - for real

2011-07-07T07:25:00.005-04:00

We spent the day at the pool. We swam, we ate, then we swam some more. It was perfect! Later that night we went to my parent's friends house for a spectacular fireworks display, up close and personal. The kids were a little nervous about being so close (and if their dad was there he would have been crazy), but they really enjoyed themselves.

4th of July Fireworks (on the 2nd)

2011-07-07T07:14:00.005-04:00

Our family, Grandma, Doug, Edy, Madelyn and Delaney all went to the Walmart parkign lot to see fireworks. Greg had me very nervous that the fireworks were not going to happen, but we set up "camp" in the parking lot anyway. We had so many people stop by and ask us what we were doing. This only added to my worry that we had the date wrong. One time I told some people that we were having a family reunion and asked them to join us. They did not. We were in the parking lot at 8:45pm and the fireworks (yes they did happen!) did not start until 10:20pm. So, while we waited Greg and Doug played football with the kids. Grace and Madelyn cheered. And for a few moments Krystel, Mom and I experience peace and quiet while Greg and Doug took all 8 kids into Walmart. I am sure we looked interesting then - just the 3 of us in our lawn chairs, relaxing in the Walmart parking lot. We had a great night together and had fireworks going off to the north and the south of us. It was so much fun!

Notes on Parenting

2011-06-27T07:20:00.002-04:00

I do have the best parents in the world. As I sat and reflected this morning, I realized how fortunate, no not fortunate, rather blessed, I am to have been raised in the family I was. For reasons I will never understand, God placed me in this place, where I have been loved, encouraged, disciplined, challenged and refined - all to become a woman of God. I am more than fortunate. My parents were strict. I was not allowed to do much. At the time, I did not like it, but looking back I am thankful for what I was saved from. My parents were always there - always. We were number one. No, this did not mean we were the spoiled brats of today that got everyTHING they wanted. Instead, we were the blessed children to get every PART of our parents. They supported our every endeavor, whether it was a sporting event or building a class float. My parents may not have given me everything I wanted, but I know I received everything I needed. I had my parents and I had their love. There is really nothing any child needs more than that. They need to know they are loved unconditionally and they need to have boundaries clearly marked out for them. Children are just that - children. They cannot, and should not, make decisions for themselves. In the name of independence, children are being forced to grow up way too fast and instead of producing responsible adults, we are producing whiny babies that think the entire world revolves around them. I am thankful for Godly parents, that instilled values, morals, and responsibility in me. I was taught to work hard and to play hard. Both are equally important. I can only pray that I am half of the parents they were.

Rays Baseball Tournament (June 2011)

2011-06-26T18:40:00.005-04:00

Jacob played baseball for the Rays this year. They ended the season in 7th place, but then really rocked out the tournament for champion. They won their first game on Saturday by a lot, then finished the day by beating the #2 team in an intense battle. The final game for the Rays was Sunday morning, which I struggled with missing church over. I thought I was not setting a good example. I wasn't, trust me. The game started with an amazing first inning by the Rays. They scored the maximum (5 runs per inning) with help from a triple from Jacob! Woo hoo! Then they held the other team at zero for a couple of innings. Then the Astros came alive. They scored 5 runs to tie the game up. 5th inning - we are batting - 2 guys out and 2 (go ahead runs) on base. Jacob gets up. Ohhhhhhh, what will happen? He is the most relaxed he has been for the entire season - it is crazy. He gets up and slams a double out to right field. 2 RBIs - way to go! Now we are up 2 runs and are in the field last. The kid who is pitching allows a few base hits and then walks a couple to load the bases. The next guy up, he walks, so that he walks in a run. He was so upset over that that he started crying. He could not finish, so the coach pulls Jacob from 3rd base and tells him to pitch. As if my ulcer was not bad enough at the moment, that was the final nail in my coffin. I sat quietly (the first time all day) under my shade umbrella and quietly talked Jacob through. Due to his skill (and not my silent coaxing) he struck the first guy out. This particular guy was the "best" hitter on the other team and had previously had 2 hits (double and triples). So Jacob struck HIM out - awesome! Then the next kid gets up and Jacob strikes him out! I threw my umbrella, jumped up, screamed and cheered - only to find out that this was only the 2nd out and not the 3rd. AUGH!!!! Jacob threw the next pitch and the kid hit it to shortstop, who bobbled it, finally grabbed it and threw it to first base. The problem was the first baseman was near shortstop, instead of where he belonged. 2 runs scored and chaos from the other side ensued. It was over for us. But let me tell you.....these Rays played their hearts out. They got so much better through the course of the season, and especially through this tournament, it was incredible!!! So proud of MY RAY of sunshine - Jacob, you ROCK!!!!

The ER Visit and Time to Think

2011-06-22T16:42:00.004-04:00

I am sitting right now in the ER with Greg. We came because for the last couple of weeks he has had major pain in his lower abdomen. It has been a very interesting day. He had a CT scan, which led us to a diagnosis of diverticulitis. We have an excellent nurse, named Tammy, who was specialized in stomach (gastro/endo) issues. Thank you LORD! We had an excellent doctor, who although he was a little short, was very thorough. I have gotten much work accomplished while I sat here and waited between trips to the bathroom, carrying Greg's IV bag. We have had a very nice day and I am SO THANKFUL that all he has is diverticulitis, and not anything more serious. Praise Jesus! Greg cannot stop talking about a real estate auction he just learned about and is really driving me crazy, but through that we have realized all our other blessings. Greg is very blessed, and therefore, so am I. Let me explain:

-His job
-A boss that not only told him to leave, but also offered his sick/leave time to Greg
-Being in a vanpool and having the ability to get a rental car to drive home
-A job that has positioned him in a place to learn much - to help us and others
-Learning about unclaimed properties
-Ability to buy used state vehicles
-Real estate auctions

It is neat to see how God is lining things up. Like I told Greg....we need to trust God alone. We need to stop jumping to conclusions and START with prayer. If God wants us to go in a particular direction, he will lead us. We need to pray separately and come together and see what we are to do.

Greg's Testimony

2011-06-19T20:44:00.002-04:00

Today we became members at church and Greg gave his testimony. He said, "I married Michelle, then hit my knees and said 'Help me, Jesus!'" That's not really his testimony, but it is what he told my mom. Seriously though, I am so glad to be a part of OUR church family. Thank you LORD!

Flower Girl

2011-06-18T11:50:00.001-04:00

The kids are all playing outside. Jadyn just ran in exclaiming that the bees are outside and she HAS to change her clothes. When I asked her why, she told me that her clothes had flowers on them and the bees would come on her if she kept the flower clothes on. Makes sense, right?

Strawberries Anyone?

2011-06-15T14:26:00.002-04:00

The kids and I took an impromptu trip to the strawberry patch to pick berries. It is a beautiful, cool day (too cool for the pool) so we needed something fun to do. They loved picking the berries. Grant had the job of holding my camera, so that kept his hot little hands out of the berry plants. He was way more concerned with the tractor and wagon that took us out and back. Every time it would leave, he would yell "Mom, the tractor?" and when it came back he would say "Jacob, the tractor is back." EVERY TIME. I thought we had picked at least 10 pounds of berries, but when we went to weigh them, we only have just over 3 pounds. I was hoping for enough to make jam. Apparently, we had enough. We are all ready for some toast and jam!!!

Driveway Art

2011-06-12T21:27:00.004-04:00

Jacob and Grace made good use of Grant's new birthday chalk this evening. They asked me to take pictures of their masterpieces and post them on Facebook - which I did. However, they also needed to be displayed here. Grace, on her own, wrote out the entire John 3:16 verse, then asked me to come look. Stuff like that really makes a momma swell with pride. I have the BEST kids in the whole world!

Pawlak Birthdays June 2011

2011-06-12T21:16:00.008-04:00

Today we celebrated Grant's 3rd, Reid's 1st, Mimi's 69th and Papa's 72nd birthdays at Alicia and Jeremy's house. It was way colder than it should have been for June, but we all had a great time. The guys played horseshoes, the kids made up a volleyball game, the the girls gabbed.

Last Day of School 2011

2011-06-11T20:09:00.002-04:00

The Guilt from a $1 Bill

2011-06-10T10:46:00.001-04:00

Last night, about 3/4 of the way through the hot baseball game, Grandpa took Grace, Jadyn and Grant home. While they were waiting for us to get back to celebrate Grant's birthday, Grace took a shower and then bathed Grant and Jadyn. Grandpa was so impressed with her that he gave her $1. When I got home, she was very mopey. Grandma and I kept asking her what was wrong, to which she replied, nothing. Finally she relented and told Grandma what the problem was. She was riddled with guilt over taking the money from Grandpa. She remembered what I have told her about taking money from them. She is not supposed to - ever. And she was very perplexed. No...it was more than that..because as she was going to bed she was hysterical and wanted me to drive her to Grandpa's house so she could give the money back. I am glad that her conscious is working and she knows the difference between good and bad, but this is crazy. I told her to relax and go to sleep. Poor girl ended up crying herself to sleep.

I Love that My Kiddos Love Me

2011-06-09T12:59:00.002-04:00

I love to love on my kiddos. I love it that they love that I do it. I really love that they love me back. I love that when I lay them down they WANT me to lay there, just holding and hugging them. I just went through this with Jadyn and Grant, but do not be fooled. Jacob and Grace still love it too. Ohhhhhh.......I love this!!! My tank is so full! Thank you Lord!

Field Day 2011

2011-06-09T10:37:00.005-04:00

Grant's 3rd Birthday

2011-06-09T10:32:00.003-04:00

Good News From the School

2011-06-09T10:23:00.003-04:00

Yesterday I was pulled aside the principal and told some good news. It appears that Jacob's teacher really likes him. She likes his attitude, study habits and character. In fact, she likes him so much that she has requested to have Grace in her class next year. Wow! Kinda makes the mom super proud. I told him so too. It is things like this that make me see that all I am trying to do with my kiddos is not in vain. They are learning right from wrong (despite all their fighting here) and they are applying it when they are out of my sight and in the public world. I am so proud of you, Jacob!

Grace's Walking Field Trip

2011-06-09T10:15:00.004-04:00

We walked around downtown Hartland. Visited the library, the cemetary, the music hall and the museum. We also had an architectural tour of buildings. Then we went to the park for a pizza lunch and to play. It was a beautiful day!

Grant and Bryce's 3rd Birthday Party

2011-06-09T10:04:00.005-04:00

On Sunday, June 5, 2011, we had a joint 3rd birthday party for Grant and Bryce. Craig and Kendall got married two nights before, so everyone was in town and we decided to have a party. It was a beautiful weekend and a great party!

Greenfield Village - Ms. Safford's 3rd Grade Class

2011-06-07T09:45:00.003-04:00

I was fortunate enough to go on the field trip to Greenfield Village with Jacob's 3rd grade class. We had an ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL day - thank you Lord! Despite having 2 (yes 2) GPSs, the gal I rode with and I got lost twice on the way there. We had a great time and I am looking forward to going back and s..l..o..w..l..y looking through the village. The boys in our group were most concerned with finishing the "History Hunt", so we would dart in, find our answer and dart out. Hardly educational, but they had fun.

Jadyn's Preschool Graduation

2011-06-07T09:36:00.004-04:00

I can't believe it is finally here. Jadyn is graduating from Little Lamb. It is exciting, but bittersweet too. Little Lamb (where all my kids have gone so far) is closing its doors. What to do with Grant? But back to Jadyn......the kids sang their color songs and then as a special added touch finished with "You are my sunshine" first to the parents and then to the grandparents. Grandma was bawling in the front row and I could not see Grandpa, but I am sure his eyes were wet too.

Jacob's "Box " Project

2011-05-18T16:59:00.003-04:00

From day one I hated this project. Jacob had to do a report on the state of Arizona. On top of that, he had to take a box (refrigerator, stove, washer) and paint, decorate and cut it to look like a display in a wax museum. Then he had to design a button that the "customers" would push to get him to present his report. The only paint we had to paint the box with was Kilz, and if you have painted with Kilz, you know that a cardboard box can barely handle having the outside painted with Kilz, much less the inside too. We took the crumbling box and made a pretty cool project out of it. Jacob had some help from me and some help from Grandpa, but he had to do it himself. His button even had flashing lights on it and he put speakers on the front, so his customers could think they are really hearing him.