a few captured moments. . .

Since returning to college three years ago I've worked really hard at keeping study to a minimum.  I always told myself that if it ever overlapped into family time then I'd have to pause until, at least, Victoria begins school.  Last year I took on 12 credits a semester, without problem and held onto my 3.74 GPA.  It was a no-brainer, or so I thought, to do the same this year; this semester.  I'm into the end of my third week and I'm on study "overload".  I finally sat down today, after I realized I missed a deadline yesterday, and made myself a schedule for every day and the assignments that are due each day.  CRAZY! but oh so necessary.  I have come to realize that when a professor says to expect 9+ hours of study each week that they really mean it.  My intention was to drop one class that has overloaded my day, however I realized I missed the deadline by one day!  I'm rarely scatterbrained, so this is really pushing my buttons.  I had thought with Victoria being in preschool 3 times a week that I would be able to get all of my studying out of the way, but such is not the case, it overflows into the other two days, evenings, afternoons.  I am praying that God gives me the wisdom and strength to get these classes organized and that I am using every ounce of my spare time wisely.

My friend, Kim, shared this verse with me and I'm clinging to His promises:
"I lift my eyes to the hills, where my help comes from" Psalm 121:1

skyping. . .

After church yesterday we had a great afternoon of skyping with Brad, Amanda and the boys.  Victoria sat on my lap almost the entire time talking, smiling and giggling.  I'm so thankful for the technology we have today that connects us.  Our military kids live in Georgia; and our times together are short and limited.

Victoria and Walker both received guitars this past Christmas.  The same guitar; his is CARS and hers is Princesses!  She asked Walker to get his so they could play them together via skyp! I couldn't pass up an opportunity to capture the moment......so ADORABLE!

 FYI:  Victoria (4) is aunt to Walker (5)!

what a gift. . . .

I just love how God gives us gifts, even simple little gifts that sometimes does not matter to anyone but the receiver.  Yesterday morning as I was dropping the kids off at a youth activity, we spied a deer in someones yard.  We, our family, always enjoy these sightings and Victoria, the animal lover that she is, thoroughly loves to see them.  She then began to ask me questions about deer; how do they get into people's yards, can we have some in our yard, can we feed them, you get the picture.  When we got home she asked Den what they like to eat, just making sure that carrots were a staple for them (since that's all the vegies we had in the frig).  Her dad said they do like carrots and our plan was to place some in the outer part of our yard near the field later that evening.  We got side-tracked by having a bonfire, however, yet God in only the way God can, blessed Victoria this morning with, not one but four deer in our yard.  She was so excited and thrilled to see them in "our" yard.  She says, "God gave us deer of our own!"

Thank you, Father, for giving a gift to a little four year old and to the rest of us! They are such peaceful animals to watch and we really enjoyed them this morning.

a God-given talent

My husband is a phenomenal writer and he amazes me with his gift.  He has written so many stories (one in particular about a certain manboy) and is able to weave a tale without notice.  Our kids, over the years, have loved hearing his tales, his stories as well as learning truths, morals and Biblical knowledge.  I say all this to encourage you to take a few moments and read a few of his articles on his blogs.  He works hard to articulate a message that is relevant and meaningful.  Yes, I am biased and very proud of the man God made!

Journey Ministries
Journey Outfitters

week 1. . . .completed, successful!

We all had a great first week of school.  The kids and I started the same day so it was pretty crazy.  Den was even able to get a sub job the very first day of school so he took Jacqueline and Brennan, and I took Colson.  Colson wanted to bring his teacher a little something so we swung by Krogers before we went to school.  He found a beautiful bouquet of flowers and a small box of chocolates.  It was hard, to say the least, letting him go into his room and leaving him there.  After a tearful goodbye, from me, not him, Victoria and I quickly made our way to our car!  Thankfully the first morning was only a half day for him and we were back picking him up.    Jacqueline and Brennan have had a great first week as well.  Jacqueline is running cross country and I had the pleasure of taking her for her sports physical! Crazy! to take a girl instead of manboys!  Brennan is at the skill center for part of his day doing building and thoroughly enjoying it.  It is with much fear and trepidation that we have allowed him to try this; moving him from the security and comfortableness of his classes at the high school.

My classes are packed full and I'm hoping I can accomplish all that is expected, of me, during the mornings Victoria is at preschool.  It's always intimidating and overwhelming starting a new semester, with new profs; trying to figure out what they want, maneuvering  my way through the blackboard tabs.  I am looking into a new program that may accelerate my education and bump me into a whole new category.  I should find out in the next few days if this dream will become a reality! Praise the Lord for amazing friends who are willing to step-in and give guidance and help! What a gift!

vacation.. . .in a nutshell

Since we came home from vacation two days before school started I haven't had a chance to collect my thoughts.  We had a great time at our kids in North Dakota.  The weather was perfect and the kids were great.  We enjoyed some belated 4th of July fireworks along the river at friends.  Dan did a great job of entertaining us as we smacked and swatted mosquitos.

We spent the last two days at the Mall of America with Dan and Liz.  We had amazing accomodations at the Residence Inn just a few miles from the MOA.  I'm so glad we were able to experience that massive mall! The kids were able to enjoy the rollercoaster rides (Jacqueline and Colson's first).  It was absolutely hilarious to watch them ride.  We probably should not have put them on the largest rollercoaster to start with; after the ride Colson no longer wanted to do it!  Jacqueline and Brennan were hooked.  Tori even got a chance to ride a few herself and LOVED the log ride that splashes into the water.  We had a great time and as the day drew to a close we decided to drive straight through to home, leaving Minneapolis around 8ish and arriving home at 6:30 am Sunday morning.  Den went straight to bed, the kids settled on the sofa, plugging into a movie and Brennan helped me unload the car.  It wasn't long,  everything was put away, laundry was humming, the car was washed and vacuumed and I ran a few last minute errands to purchase school supplies.  Vacations always seems to go way too fast! we were thankful to have Labor Day as a day of rest and relaxation.

Oh, one final note. . . .corn on the cob from North Dakota is the BEST we've ever eaten, just sayin'...........

I can't believe it's that time of year. . . .

WOW! the end of summer is over! already? seems like I was just posting about school being out for summer and now, here we are, starting our first day of school for the new year.  I know this time of year is exciting for most kids but mine. . . .they do enjoy being home and I do enjoy having them home.  Oh sure the first few weeks are complicated; realizing I'm "not" their activities director.  Its not long and we settle into a new pattern of living, without schedules.

We had a great day yesterday.  We took the kids out for an end of the summer lunch and then we came home and just hung out.  Bedtime was not the summer norm, and was met with nerves, especially for Colson.  He will be returning to school, the 4th grade, and his nervous jitters got the best of him because he lost all of his meals yesterday in the commode!  I have to say I wasn't surprised.  It's the first night he's had to sleep alone in his room all summer.  He has had terrible nightmares for most of the summer nights; thus sleeping, alone, in his room and thinking of starting school got the best of him.  Hopefully he won't feel the affects this morning.  Jacqueline is excited, she's had her clothes set out since we got back from North Dakota on Sunday! love that girl! Brennan is excited but apprehensive, and I know the long days of sitting will take its toll on each of the kids by weeks end!

As I bid summer a due, it is with my own mixed emotions.  My manboys have returned to college, my semester starts tomorrow, Victoria will begin preschool next week, and the house will be eerily quiet! I just don't like it. . . .one single bit!

Finishing off my coffee....

Traveling to North Dakota....

it's that time of year. . . .

when my emotions are all topsey-turvey! The end of the summer has finally arrived.  My manboys (3 of them) are headed back to college, three kids in school and one in pre-school, and it all seems to happen within a few days of each other.  Saying goodbye to college kids and a short breather and I'm sending off my kids to public school.  Why does the summer go by so quickly? Seems like I just get my kids "back" and I have to send them off again.  I know this is how its supposed to be but for some reason no one told my emotions that it wouldn't be EASY!

suburban trash picking. . .

I was at a board meeting tonight and upon my return home I noticed (what I thought was) Victoria's American Girl Doll laying on the porch.  I figured she had left it there after playing outside; I went to pick it up as I opened the door and heard, "don't bring that in, Brennan found it in the trash."  What? Really? an American Girl Doll in someone's trash? Everything is in tact minus eyelashes on one eye! a cute blonde haired doll with blue eyes! Perfect match for Victoria!  Brennan began to share with me where he found it and I said, "let's go back."  Off we drove, of course I felt a wee bit apprehensive digging through people's trash and when I noticed a neighbor on a porch we decided to head home.

Once we got home I was telling Brett about it and he said, "do you want to go back?" of course! so I changed into dark clothing, Brett changed into dark clothing with a hoodie and Brennan changed into dark clothing.  We decided to change cars too and off we went!  This time we tore into all the trash bags!  We scored a brand new trash can from IKEA, a Sony Clock Radio, a Password Journal, a mesh storage container and an American Girl bathtub! As we drove off Brennan ducked down in the back seat, I covered my face with my arm and Brett pulled his hoodie down a little bit further! Hilarious but oh so fun and FREE! 

nothing like a baby. . . . .

We had a wonderful week of baby snuggling!  Our newest grandson, Breeze, was here, with his parents of course, for the week.  In typical Lutz fashion everyone wanted the baby! That poor little guy was passed from arms to arms but never once seemed to mind all the loving he got from his aunts and uncles!  I'm so very thankful my kids love babies! and know how to care for them (they've had a lot of practice).

Den and I had our "personal" time with that precious little boy; Den would rock him to sleep at night, letting Casey catch-up on her rest and I would rock him back to sleep in the early morning so she could get a few more hours of rest! There were a few mornings that Casey would stay-up, and we'd find ourselves engrossed in conversation or a good DVR'd show that we both enjoyed!

All too soon their 10-day vacation came to an end, with tearful sobs and goodbyes, we saw them head back to NC!   It's tough having your children live out-of-state, yet we've learned to treasure the moments we have with them, when we're together.

the "Breeze"

EXHAUSTED. . . . .enough said!

and the two shall become one. . . . .

One Man

One Woman

12 Children

5 Daughters-in-law

3 Grandsons

20+ moves

33 years of marriage

PRICELESS

a little bit of Texas. . . .

We are having so much fun with my Aunt Enid and Uncle Russ here!  What an honor to sit in their presence and have them share stories of the life they've lived all over the world, while Uncle Russ served our great country in the ARMY.  What a gift it has been, after a 40 year absence, to have them in my life once again.  We are so thankful they chose to spend a few days, here in Michigan with us; a treat for our whole family.  God Bless Texas and God Bless Aunt Enid and Uncle Russ. . . .

jam-packed "full"

 

Tomorrow is August. . . .unbelievable! already into our last month of summer vacation.  I'm so thankful we have a state law that does not allow us to start school until after Labor Day!  Its a real treat to have the entire month of August to enjoy and prepare for school and the fall schedule.  However, August also brings a month full of craziness.  Kids moving in, kids moving out, family from Texas visiting, kids from North Carolina visiting, baby shower, 30th birthday celebration, friends for dinner, dinner out with my high school Diva's, Anniversaries, kids home from camp, kids moving into apartments, kids moving to North Carolina, parents visiting, 2 VBS programs, and last but not least, our vacation to North Dakota to visit our married kids!

I'm already working on a month meal menu, figuring out sleeping arrangements and clean-sweeping the house!  I'm praying that God helps me savor each and every moment; enjoying my beautiful family, extended family and the wonderful gift of friends. 

got goat?

Our grandson, Wilson, is selling tee shirts to benefit his "Got Goat" fundraiser.  The kids received theirs in the mail today and couldn't wait to try them on!  Of course, we had to take a picture to show how much they appreciate Wilson and his efforts to feed the hungry.

a Victoria-ism. . .

The other day one of my manboys was commenting on how another manboy continuously spoils his little four year old sister.  We, Den and I, think its sweet and endearing! This morning Den stopped by the grocery store to pick up milk and coffee creamer.  When he got home he was calling Tori into the kitchen because he had bought her a treat, graham crackers (my kids love graham crackers and milk for breakfast).  I went into the kitchen and said that he was spoiling her buying her such treats and Victoria says, "he's my father. . . ." to which both Den and I just cracked up!

have you tried your library lately???

Jacqueline, Colson and I have been on a reading frenzy this summer.  Our public library has become our second home as we seem to visit it several times throughout each week, either dropping off or picking up books (the library staff knows us as well as our doctors office staff!).  I love that I can get on line to search, order and check when the books are ready for pick-up!  Since I've been taking classes the past three years I've not had any time for fun summer reading!  Last week I walked out of the library with my arms loaded with books (16+) and a guy said, "are you reading all of those?" to which I replied, "me and my daughter" and he says, "that's impressive!" yup we're impressive! no one can call us illiterate either!  Yesterday when I came home with, yet four more books, Den looked at me and smiled! I said, "hey, this will end all too soon and it will be back to the grind of reading for class not pleasure!" 

Without further ado. . . .I'm off to read and enjoying "every minute of it" (thanks Renae!)

 

Yesterday, Victoria and I, had a chance to enjoy the pool together without the other kids.  She was able to show me how she can, now, swim from one side to the other all under water, with her eyes open! Impressive!   She also found out that she can pick people up in the water and thought it was so cool that she could cradle me like a baby and of course, she named me "Breeze!"  We had a fun time of playing, a rare moment to ourselves when I started dodging her playfulness by pushing inner tubes towards her, she would try and move around them, push them aside, etc and I would quickly place them over her head.  It was cute listening to her sweet giggles! all of a sudden she stops and says, "I don't like this game! and I don't want to play this game any more!"  I laughed and pulled her to myself and we had a quick water snuggle!  She's definitely "my girl" and likes to be with me pretty much at all times, unless of course her sister-in-laws are around then they get her full undivided attention!  

an evening with dignitaries. . .

Den and I were invited to attend a fundraising dinner for the Honorable James Marleau, Michigan Senator.  My son, Benjamin, works for him and we were able to enjoy an evening of hor d'oeuvres, jazz and conversations.  It was exciting to dress-up and rub elbows with the elite of our states government.  It was also a time were we, as parents, couldn't have been more proud of our son.  He was highly praised for his role in making the event a huge success; at one point our former Lieutenant Governor said that he raised the bar high for future fund raising events. 

our week, in review

 Last Monday our daughter-in-law was due to have our grandson so we knew that a trip to North Carolina was in store, at some point, that week.  We had several logistical issues to figure out; do we take the kids, do we leave them home, do we have enough money to cover the trip with or without the kids.  Lots to ponder but we knew we needed to be there, our kids requested that we be there.  I began praying on Monday that if God wanted us there that he would provide "specifically" for the trip.  This was a conversation that I had solely with the Lord, no one else.  I knew in my heart that we were supposed to go but Den also knew that our finances didn't warrant such a trip.  Each morning during my quiet time I would ask God to provide; I also did this throughout the day and as each day came to a close I would give my worries to Him, trusting that He would provide.  Wednesday morning I told the kids to pack their clothes giving specifics on what to put in a bag (by that time we had decided that if we went they were going).  Though God still hadn't yet given my husband the financial ok, we packed and placed everything in the dining room.  Wednesday drew to a close and Thursday morning I said to God, "this is the day, Lord.  We have to leave tonight if we're going! I'm trusting you to provide!"  Den was sharing with a good friend about our indecision  to go when he said, hang on a minute; I have something I want to give you and out he came with a handful of cash.  He handed it to Den and said that he wanted him to use it for our trip expenses.  He said he saves money, a little bit here, a little bit there, for ministry purposes and this was one he wanted to invest in.  Den called me, choking back tears and told me the story and how much it was. . . . $220.00! We both cried and I sent praises up to God for answering my prayer as my faith grew by leaps and bounds.

Fast forward to North Carolina, Sunday afternoon: Den is talking with our son's neighbor, Jack about the trip home, the best route to take, etc, when Jack goes to leave he says to Den, "I know how tough it is to travel with a family, across country, so we'd like to help you with your expenses on the way home," of which he handed Den a $100 bill in a handshake! We had just met Jack and his family, over the weekend, as we enjoyed their wonderful southern hospitality.  They are an amazing family that truly love our kids (Dave, Casey and Breeze) and we are so thankful they have a surrogate family that will continue to look after them and care for them when we, as parents, are not able too. I love the way God chooses to connect people! Not only was it hard to leave our children and new grandson, but these precious neighbors as well.  In just a few short days God blessed us, not only financially, but with life-long friends.


We left our sons at 6:30 last night and arrived home at 7pm this morning.  No weather, vehicle, or sickness issues; the kids slept until we were about 10 minutes from home and we were able to bring home some of that wonderful North Carolina heat and humidity, 'cause we're just that kinda people who like to share and it's how we roll!

meet our new grandson. . . . .

Breeze Thomas Lutz

7 lbs. 13 ounces

22 inches long

Our little grandson in his daddy arms, wearing the same outfit his daddy wore when I brought him home from the hospital almost 30 years ago.  Underneath was the tee-shirt the hospital gave us for David!  I love that my kids are sentimental and don't mind putting an outfit on their newborn son that isn't "up-to-date, trendy, or even stylish" (though it was pretty pricey 30 years ago and Carters was 'the" in baby clothier).   

. . .Pure Michigan. . .

This summer our state has adopted an amazing logo and put together top-notch commercials, to garner tourism.  I have to say I'm completely impressed and in awe; utterly proud to be a "Michigander".  We often dwell on the negative here; foreclosures, job loss, etc and forget that just steps, outside our doors, there is beauty and grandeur, it's "Pure Michigan".  If you've never experienced it, maybe this summer you can come and enjoy what we're enjoying. . . .

a captured moment. . .

Ever since summer began I've been anxiously wanting to do my quiet time on our outdoor swing, but since spring sprung in Michigan we've had mosquitos that keep you from doing anything outside, morning or late evening.  This morning I went outside to put chlorine into the pool and realized it was the perfect morning for my quiet time on the swing.  Just when I was done praying, my sweet little princess came out looking for me.  She climbed up on my lap and we began to swing softly.  As we were talking she says, "mama listen. . . ." and we stopped to hear all the beautiful music the birds were making.  She asked what they were saying and I told her they were having conversations with their friends and singing was how they communicated.  She thought that was so cool.  Not only did I get my special time outside but I also enjoyed a bonus with my little girl; a rare and, never forgotten, cherished moment.

the second Sunday of the month!

  Once a month our family has the privilege of preparing food and serving at the homeless shelter.  It's an amazing and humbling experience.  Several months ago our pastor announced that we would be needing team leaders to spearhead a group, each Sunday, to feed the homeless (it's the only day of the week they aren't provided a good warm meal).  I volunteered to lead a group and immediately began praying that God would direct me to the people He wanted on our "team".  I called one family and they thought it would be an awesome idea and the other family I sent a lengthy facebook message explaining how I had prayed over this and felt God's leading to ask.  I received a reply back and they said, "we knew God wanted us to be a part of this but He said to sit and wait, that someone would be asking!" I just love how God connects individuals and families. 

We had planned to do Little Caesars Pizza, as one family had a neighbor who owned a franchise.  I was bringing the salad and the other family the dessert.  Just as I was going to bed Saturday night I got a call that the pizza was a "no go".  My mind went blank as to what to do!  Then my friend said that they had a huge roaster full of taco meat and all the fixings (for walking taco), would that work! Oh my YES! so plan B went into action.  I decided instead of salad to do a fruit salad.  I ran to the store early Sunday morning, bought the fruit and Jacqueline and I cut it all up.  Unbeknownst to me both families also brought a fruit salad and 5 watermelons!  Den assured me that it would be no issue, it was hot,  90's, so the fruit would be a welcome relief.  We made our way down to the shelter after church, got everything set up, everyone in their designated spots and began serving, serving and serving!  We ran out of food, a first ever, and thankfully there were sandwiches, yogurt, and cookies in the walk-in frig (left over from the week previous) and watermelon!  It was amazing watching everyone working together (18) of us; washing trays, drying trays, wiping off tables, putting up chairs, wiping counters, etc.  oh and the laughter and conversations, nothing like it!

Several of the homeless commented that they hadn't had such good food! always they thank us and tell us how blessed they are that we serve them.  Um. . . excuse me. . . you're blessing us!  Its a very humbling experience; you realize. . . .but by the Grace of God. . .there go I!

how we spend our days. . . .and nights. . . .

I honestly think our state bird should be the "mosquito"!  This picture truly conveys how we live around here! We can't enjoy a balmy evening or a morning sunrise without these pesky bugs!  Victoria is highly allergic to their bites so everywhere she has one its swollen, huge and fevered!  Is there really a purpose for them? I recently was told that if you spray, the mouthwash, "listerine" around you they won't bother you! Wish I had known that when we were setting off fireworks the other night!!!  We are supposed to have above-temps for the next week, maybe all this heat will "kill them off". . . .it's what this girl is hoping for; in the mean time, we're taking safe cover from them!! oh and did I tell you I LOATHE mosquito's?????  Yup! I sure do!

an amazing 4th of July parade. . . .day. . . .

My son, Benjamin, works for the Honorable James Marleau, Michigan Senator and we were able to be a part of his team in the Clarkston 4th of July Parade this morning.  We had a "blast"!  The kids passed out candy, stickers and flags! The weather was perfect and after the parade Senator Marleau and his gracious wife, Thea, treated all of us to dinner at the Deer Lake Athletic Club.  Once dinner was over, Senator Marleau gave our family a guest pass to use the facilities for the day.   The kids were ecstatic!  Water slide, spray park, pool and mushroom fountain! We had the best day together, from beginning to end! What a gift, to our family! and we were honored to meet such a quality man working to better our state government, our state, and the people who live in our state.

ahhh. . . . .this makes life much easier. . . .

Yesterday my in-laws came over for dinner and to celebrate Bryan's birthday.  After dinner my father-in-law and my husband had to run an errand, when they returned they came back with a brand new refrigerator.   "Happy" does not describe how elated I was.  In all of our almost 33 years of marriage I've never had a new refrigerator.  What an unbelievable gift and blessing it was, because the refrigerator we replaced it with was also leaking all over the floor!  My manboys, Bryan and Ben, carried the new beauty into the kitchen, Tori quickly assumed the position of pulling off all the tape from the outside to the  inside and I stood in "awe".  We had to let it sit for a few hours before plugging in, and once the time was up it was filled and ready to run.  Ben, Den and Bryan took the other, less desirable, leaking frig down to the basement for its new home; then Ben (what a manboy he is) carried his third and final frig to the basement, the mini we were using!  When I walked into the kitchen this morning, as I swiped my hand across the front of that frig, I got the biggest smile on my smile on my face!  It was my son's birthday but I'm the one that got the biggest gift of all!

Thank you, Mom and Dad!

workin' on new. . . . .

my old meal menu is "not" working so I'm developing a new one; getting feedback from the kids as well as meals they would enjoy eating.  Nothing worse than slaving away in the kitchen to have your family turn their noses up in dislike!  So I sat down yesterday, with pen and paper in hand, and asked my kids for input into what they would like in their bellies!  We even came up with some catchy day phrases (I was bypassed on creativity, but where I lack, my kids make-up for it!) and now have a new, revised up-to-date menu in hand for grocery shopping! Since we are now down to one frig (see earlier post) I am shopping weekly, which really means buying less and planning better!  I may even insist that my kids help in prep/cooking/clean-up! we'll see how it all plays out! But it's summer, and I'm game for anything that will change up the days, (not that they drag or anything), I love having my kids home, but boredom does have a way of creeping in and I'm not my kids activities director!! 

pay to play

The kids are doing "fairly" well with the "pay to play".  They've spent more "together" time, which is what I had hoped for.  Jacqueline and Colson have been doing a lot of reading too.  I spent an afternoon online searching our local library for books and requesting them; now we're just waiting for them all to come in!  I told them this week that I will no longer ask if they want to earn money, that it will be up to them to see what needs to be done and do it.  There's only been a few times where I have actually taken money away for bad behavior or disrespect.

It's been so good not having the TV on so much or seeing them plugged into some electronic game or device.  Evenings seem to be their hardest time, our hardest time, because we watched so many programs as a family.  We're getting the hang of it, little by little.  I'm hoping I have to dole out some "big bucks" by fall because that will mean they've stepped away from paying and just started saving!  I'll keep you posted with our progress; so far Jacqueline is leading the pack with $16.......

family. . . .

" a basic social unit consisting of parents and their children, considered as a group, whether dwelling together or not: the traditional family."

We had a "fan-tab-u-lous day!  Drove to Indiana for a family picnic with my dad's side of the family.  Perfect weather and perfect fellowship with family.  You just never realize how much you miss your family until you spend time with them. . . .several commented that we should have been planning these picnics years ago, but we are so thankful that we are doing them NOW!  So very blessed to have some amazing friends that are family! and in a few weeks we will have my aunt and uncle here, from Texas, all to ourselves!  Of course all the manboys can't wait until they can listen to Uncle Russ's Vietnam stories! That is one amazing military man!

sometimes you just gotta laugh. . . .

Have you ever watched the movie, "The Money Pit" with Tom Hanks?  it is absolutely hilarious to watch, just not to live.  These days it feels like we are living that movie.  Sometimes it is rather hilarious and sometimes it can almost drive you crazy!  Last week I had finally had it with our refrigerator (we have two) and one kept spewing water all over the floor.  Its done this for several years, when I slipped and fell, I decided it was time to say goodbye.  I cleaned it out, Den and Bryan drug it outside.  I cleaned the second frig out and began to assemble everything from two into one (not an easy feat).  It became very evident on Monday that we needed a second frig.  Fearful that we might get another leaker, off of Craigslist, I remembered my son had his mini-frig in the basement (he uses it at college), so Den brought it up, I cleaned it out, and loaded it with condiments and such!  It works great, looks ridiculous, but hey. . . .its saved us some $$$!  Ya' gotta do what ya' gotta do!

I could go on and on about other areas but out of embarrassment for me and my family I will just let your mind play on the mini-frig next to the regular frig for now!

kinda strange, huh?

Over the winter I realized how much time my children waste on things; like TV, video games, dvd, etc.  So as the summer drew near I asked God to give me wisdom on how to control this with my kids.  One morning as I was praying, again, I got an epiphany; "pay to play".  As I formulated this in my mind I came up with a plan to implement less electronics more activity.  I made a list of household chores, put a price to each one, labeled old glasses with the kids names, and the kids sorted out colored legos (I didn't have enough change at this point) to represent change amounts.  They do daily chores, get lego money and as their deposits grow they are allowed to, out of their lego money, purchase video game/DVD/TV/computer/IPOD time.  There is, also, a list of  things they can do, that does not involve work but will enhance their brain power, their attitudes, and sibling time.  They were excited to begin this morning, so far, since 6:30am we've been "electronic" free, and its AWESOME!  At the end of the summer whatever they have left, in their glasses, will be exchanged for "real" money, dollars and cents! Already they are formulating what they want to buy!

I love how God cares about "everything" in our lives; the way He gives me wisdom and encouragement with my kids; and  how to pull something together with limited resources.

its time for. . . . . . .

Den and I are in charge of a 3-day VBS, in the inner city of Flint, starting Monday night.  Our theme is Boot Camp 4 Winning!  We've centered everything around ARMY terms; games=PT time; food=CHOW; and story=mission time.  I love how creative my man is! Amazes me! but we make a pretty good team because we came up with some pretty good ideas. . . .together!  Beyond the "stuff" I hope these kids hear the message of Christ.

we are excited because. . . . . . .

 

 Our summer has officially begun!  We had some plans, set for summer, but since my son is now in drivers training they've changed due to scheduling conflicts.  But hey. . . .it's summer and we're just gonna role with it and see where it takes us.  And today. . . .we're gonna relish in excitement and happiness that we are on summer vacation!

I am so blessed by the family God gave me.  No matter what is going on. . . no matter how chaotic life is. . . they always come through for each other! ready to lend a hand, encourage, love and care for one another!  going above and beyond the call of duty!

a crazy 48 hours. . . .

On Tuesday our newly married children had to be out of their apartment by midnight.  On Tuesday my newly married son started a new job. On Tuesday my newly married children acquired a new apartment, closer to both their jobs.  On Tuesday my newly married son worked 14.5 hours.  On Tuesday my newly married daughter-in-law packed up their home.  On Tuesday my husband (God bless his soul), Branden (after working 14 hours), Katie, Brennan and my newly married son, drove to Detroit to load a moving trailer.  On Tuesday they began their move at 10:30 pm.  On Wednesday they arrived, here, at 2:30am.  On Wednesday at 6am my newly married daughter-in-law left for work.  On Wednesday at 8am my newly married son left for work.  On Wednesday at 10:30 am my husband (God bless his soul), myself, Colson and Victoria left to unload moving trailer and van in the Detroit area.  On Wednesday at 2:30 we had both trailer and van unloaded, unpacked.  On Wednesday at 3:30 my husband (God bless his soul) drove an hour, into the bowels of Detroit, to return trailer. On Wednesday at 4:30pm I drove to Fenton to pick up Branden, from work.  On Wednesday I arrived home at 5:15, loaded up the van, and drove back to the Detroit area to unload.  On Wednesday at 6:30 my husband (God bless his soul) returned home, after driving through 1.5 hours in traffic.  On Wednesday at 8:00pm I returned home.  On Wednesday at 10pm, after working 14.5 hours, my newly married son came home, gas tank on empty, no money, no debit card, no directions to his new home, no cell.  On Wednesday at 10:15 pm newly married son left, money in hand, extra cell phone, and directions to his new home.

(in the midst of all that. . . .life still existed. . . .kids to be dropped off and picked up from school, Den subbing; laundry, homeschooling. . . .)

a perfect Memorial Day

Today was absolutely perfect! Gorgeous sunshine, blue skies, (with a white puff here and there) and it was hot, hot, hot! just the way I like it!  We spent the day outside, with the kids, in the pool and playing corn hole.  I think we were all so starved for warm weather and sunshine we forgot about sunburns! By late afternoon, after dinner, one by one the sunburns began to come out, and bodies were dropping all over the living room; chairs, floor, sectional!  Branden made a run to the store for aloe for his wife; Bryan took benedryl and gave Emily tylenol; Colson, Jacqueline and Victoria all got a dose of Tylenol too! Everyone is kind of moaning and groaning! not that I think its funny, but it brings a smile to my face, in a weird sort of way, because I rarely burn so its hard to understand the pain of sunburn.  Tomorrow is supposed to be a scorcher and I'm pretty sure anyone, that lives in this house, will be using sunscreen (we will probably need to make a run to the store for it!).  Two out of 12 are pretty much "burn free" (me and Benjamin).  I'm not even tired, actually I feel better today than I have in a long time! something about sunshine invigorates me; it drives my husband crazy because the sun zaps him of energy! I guess what they say is true, "opposites attract!" 

a touching end to a pretty lousy day. . . .

Today was a rough day! there's no other way to say it! my children were cranky, irritating (to me and to each other) and frustrating.  I found myself gritting my teeth throughout the day trying to deal with ridiculous issues that would arise between them.  I don't particularly care for days like this; frankly I loathe them.  I tried to keep my cool, be calm, yet as the day progressed I became a bit more irritable myself!  By evening I knew I had to somehow reign them in, get beyond our crankiness, and bring "something" to the table for us to hang onto.  Den and Brennan had left for a church softball game, the kids were ready for bed and I brought them into the living room and had them sit down in front of me.  I shared about the day, the poor responses we chose to display and then I opened our devotional book.  I began to read the devotions for the day.  I just love the book I'm using, it's short and simple but spoken as if God, himself, was talking to us.  He said, simply, that each day He has prepared treasures for us to find; some are good and some are not.  The ones that are not reveal the areas that we need to work on, to refine, to reshape.  I shared with the kids that I mess-up "alot" as a mom, and that I wasn't happy with my own behavior throughout the day.  I want God to change me; to get my eyes off of me and onto Him and others.  We talked about what that would mean for a 4 year old, a 9 year old and a 13 year old (these kids came up with some pretty staggering stuff).  I was completely blown away by the things my sweet babies shared.  After we finished I asked Colson to pray.  As he was praying, I was brought to tears by the simplicity of his words, his heart and the way he opens up to God.  We've a long way to go, but tonight was a wonderful start.  When I tucked the kids, into bed, I asked God to help us remember the treasures He has for us as soon as we wake up and to look for them throughout our day.

If your looking for a great devo for your kids check out this book.  I think you will find it pretty amazing and your kids will completely agree.

a feeding frenzy. . . .

not so "classy"


My manboy's love to eat cereal and they all use the "above"  blue mixing cup (its an 8 cuper) to eat their cereal out of.  It doesn't matter if someone, previous to them, has used it, they will simply rinse and re-use.  This blue baby holds nearly a full box of Fruity Pebbles! that pretty much sums up how much cereal our family goes through in a weeks time, even more so when they are all home.  Saturday I stopped at a garage sale and couldn't pass up buying the red mixing pitcher set ($1.00).  Now my manboys have a set of 3 "cereal bowls" to choose from.  The things I do for them........I sure hope they appreciate their new eating troughs!

oh so "classy"

My four-year old LOVES American Idol, but the reason she loves it is because of Lauren Alaina! This morning while I was getting ready for church I hear her in the study (with her princess microphone) saying, "Hi Lauren Alaina, I'm Victoria and I'm on American Idol, its so nice to meet you." This girl watches the show (minus all the questionable content) faithfully and is anxious to see the finale, hoping her favorite, from "day 1," wins!

through the eyes of a child. . . .

Last night, after dinner, Victoria asked if we could rockie. I said to her, "let's go outside and swing on mommy's new swing!" She thought that was a fantastic idea so we went outside, blanket in hand (it was sunny but nippy) and got ourselves comfortable on the swing. She began to tell me about her morning at preschool and then she looked up and said, doesn't that cloud look like an umbrella? I agreed and she went on to describe what "she" thought the other clouds looked like. It was such a treasure to sit with her, snuggling and enjoying her company. I'm so blessed to live my dream of being a wife and mom and even more blessed to have moments like this to share with my children. A big thank you to my husband and manboys who purchased the swing for me for Mother's Day. I love you all!

Yesterday the kids and I went on a bike ride.  The afternoon was simply gorgeous; blue skies and sunshine! We loaded up Victoria in her bike trailer and off we went.  Our plan was to hit two different local parks with dinner in between.  We had such a good time; Tori really enjoyed playing at the play scape, even making a few little friends! Brennan and Colson had a game of hide-n-seek going on with a bunch of kids! It was fun watching them run and play (long overdue but we can't control the weather, can we?).   We loaded up again for the long trek home, taking a shortcut to save a wee bit of time.  In the end the shortcut ended up being a huge section of mid-calf mud! My awesome 17 year old was able to maneuver through the woods to get beyond it; once on the other side he was able to place piles of compost, our neighbors had been dumping there, onto the path.  It took some time but we were able to make it through the path with only getting the sides of our shoes muddy! I gotta say my kid is amazing, helpful, kind, thoughtful, caring and ingenious!!

Yesterday morning Den and I took the kids to pick up Colson's bike, we had it serviced.  On our way home a lady was tailgating us (which was driving my husband nuts), as we pulled up to a light and stopped, she pulled up beside us hoping to beat us through the light and get ahead of us.  I leaned over to Den and said, don't let her do it! when that light turns green beat her to the punch.  She was on the phone, of course, and we were watching the light, anxious for the color to change!  As soon as it went GREEN, Den hit the gas, squealed the tires and laid rubber on the road! I turned just in time to see the lady, jump and turn her face in horror and look at us! It was so hilarious.  I laughed so hard, I couldn't stop! Colson was laughing in the back seat and I even got some laughter out of Den!  Who knew you could burn rubber in a mini-van?  I've never, in my life, done that.  Believe me I've tried but its just never happened.  I was shocked that Den would even attempt it because he's like the gas police and conserves every drop he puts into our tank (can't blame him at these ridiculous prices, $4.17) and he said he even surprised himself which was even more hysterical!  Today, as I sit here typing this scenario, I find myself drawn to laughter.  It was the best start to my day I've had in a long time!

I gave myself a great ending to my day too! Den didn't go to church with us last night so it was just me and the kids.  It was a great prayer service for the people of the Tornado stricken south; and a great time of fellowship after.  Once I got the kids home and took off my shoes I realized, horror stricken, that I had worn two different shoes to church.  Honestly......how could I be so naive and do that? I don't even know because the two shoes I wore were completely different; one was a mary jane crock and the other was a ballet flat! Needless to say, I felt completely ridiculous and so "blondish"! 

I love to laugh and yesterday was just the best Laugh Day Ever! and to laugh with my family, even at my  expense, was even better.

change......

I love the change of seasons and living in the mid-west we enjoy each one, FULLY! sometimes we get a season that has an extended stay; like a house guest that doesn't quite know when to leave; overstaying their welcome. We just can't seem to move into the spring-time weather in our world.  Let me just say, I'm in no way complaining.  A good friend once said, "if God sends rain, then I choose rain!"  Well.. . . .we've gotten the rain, the snow, the sleet, and the cold weather.  We just can't seem to get rid of winter; however, the trees are budding, the leaves are coming out, flowers are up and the grass is beautifully green but the water. . . .its everywhere, including our basement! Normally I would get all frustrated about the weather it and it's lack of cooperation but it's out of my control, thankfully, and I'm learning to enjoy what God gives each day, even if its still winter-like weather.  I shared with someone, recently, that there was no purpose in stressing about the weather, because when spring arrives we will be absolutely giddy with excitement.  When we do have a rare "nice" day people are like ants, scurrying everywhere enjoying the sunshine and milder temperatures.

Along with the season changes comes internal changes; learning to live where God has planted, enjoying what He's given and thanking Him for the blessings He brings, into our lives, each new day.  Some blessings are big and noticeable; some are small and mighty!  Today God gave me a blessing by answering a prayer I've been praying for one of my manboys.  What a gift to see Him working in the lives of my children, as they grow deeper in their walk with Him, trusting and following His ways.  I wouldn't want to miss out on any of that by being "too busy" to listen; too busy worrying about things I cannot "change".

a wonderful Easter weekend

The kids had a four-day weekend, our college manboys were home, as were our newly married kids from the Detroit area, for the Easter weekend.  The weather was perfect on Saturday and Sunday, well as perfect as it could be following several weeks of cold, rain and even snow (at least there was no rain drops either day).  Sunday was overcast when we left for church.  Speaking of church we had a wonderful Easter Celebration that included 15 baptisms.  After church we made our way home to change and head to our annual Easter Egg Hunt/dinner at our good friends home.  They are the most amazing couple! so hospitable, so loving, caring and generous.  After we ate it was time for the egg hunt.  The kids had a blast! Victoria's bucket was overflowing with eggs.  As the kids came up on the big country porch I handed them ziploc bags to put all their loot (literally) into.  My three kids came out with over $10 each.  Victoria's age group also had fun little trinkets in their eggs; playdoh, bouncing balloons, tatoos, rings, etc.  The day was perfect, with sunshine and a slight breeze.  People spilled outside into the lawn and porch to enjoy, not only the glorious day, but all the kids that were running and playing.  Our manboys decided to try out the rope swing over the pond! First to fall was Bryan, then Blake then Branden.  It was so fun to watch the kids as they began chanting, as the boys were contemplating taking the plunge, "do it! do it!"  Then when the boys hit the cold water (which more than likely just thawed out from iceburgs this past week) you could here the squealing and laughter.  Spending time with our family, being included as family, and enjoying the Resurrection of our Savior was a gift; memories that will last a lifetime.

We had a fabulous spring break week!  We did quite a few day-trips with the kids and had the best time.  One trip we all thoroughly enjoyed was this past Friday, we spent the day in Lansing.  We picked up Benjamin and he gave us a personal tour of the capitol (he works for a US Senator and was able to get us into areas that are typically off limits).  After our tour we picked up Blake, from MSU, and all of us ate lunch together.  Later in the day we drove to SAU and picked up Brett for the weekend.  Saturday we drove to Detroit, the kids and I, and spent the day with Bryan and Emily.  The girls went to see "Soul Surfer" and the guys hung out and watched the new Chronicles of Narnia movie. 

Though our plans did not include a "fabulous" seaside vacation we were able to enjoy time with our kids, that were on spring break, and our adult children that are scattered around Michigan.

Sunday brought some amazing warm temps to our area and we enjoyed the afternoon sitting outside, watching the kids ride their bikes and jump on the trampoline!  All too soon the week came to an end!

Ewwwww........

permanent fixtures in our hallway!

 We've been having such a fun time around our house these past few days! NOT Sunday morning Brennan came downstairs and informed us that there was "something" in the attic.  It was so loud that it woke him up in the night.  Of course we, at first, thought he was just imagining this but upon further inspection of his room (his light fixture has fallen and is hanging cockeyed) and from all the scratching that we heard, we concur he is right :(   Brennan got a chair and a stool and opened the attic door to take a "look see".  Neither Colson nor I were brave enough to support him! Later Branden pushed open the door, looked around with a flashlight and saw the beady eyes of a raccoon, a very LARGE raccoon! 

We still haven't caught that pesky critter! We hear it but it continues to elude us.  We are very fearful that its had some babies up there!  We borrowed a live trap, baited it and placed it up there! everything is still in place!

This morning Den climbed up, opened the door and stood there looking with a spotlight but found nothing, however when he pulled his arms down some lovely feces came with it! EWWWWW.......I was telling Branden about it and he says, "that's nothin' mom, you should see the pile up there!" Great just great.  I'm so creeped out by this animal, as are the girls; so much so that they won't even sleep in their bedroom (can you blame them? the attic is right outside their bedroom door).  It doesn't help that my son, the great hunter, continues to feed me disgusting information about the raccoon!!

We are going to try and bait the trap with cat food and see if the varmint will go after it! I sure hope so. . . .I can't imagine mama and babies living up there for much longer, and if so will it turn into this??????

This morning as I was praying, thanking God for the blessings He's given to me, I realized I wasn't really thankful for a few things because I complain about them.  Then God gave me an epiphany (I love it when He does that) and I heard His voice say, "do you realize in your grumbling that you put pressure on your husband that he isn't a good provider, that he has to figure out how he can work, even harder, to please you?" I completely submitted my way, my ignorance, my will to Him and asked His forgiveness.  So many things God has truly blessed me with, straight from His hand, and I still find cause to want, to covet.  I'm embarrassed to even admit this, yet maybe in my admission, someone else will pause and thank God, truly thank Him, for the provisions He has blessed them with; to not look at what we "don't" have but to look at all we "do" have.

season to season

you can see a tiny bit of sparkle!

A week ago we had a wonderful taste of spring; out came the fleeces, hoodies and even, one day, short-sleeved tee shirts.  People all over suburbia were outside; cleaning up their yards, walking, even sitting in their lawn chairs, enjoying the sunshine and warmer (50's) temps.  Its a crazy time of year when your ready for winter to end and spring to begin. I did the unthinkable and put away all of our winter outerwear! Did I "jinx" myself by doing that? some say yes! I did live to regret it, as this past Tuesday we got yet another winter storm; thunder, lightening, rain, snow and ice!  It was amazing, beautiful and awesome!  Call me crazy! but I found myself totally drawn to the window watching it all play out.  As I listened to the groans and moans of my winter weary friends I found solace and delight in the storm; its fury, its beauty.  We awoke (after 8 hours without power), to an amazing scene painted by God's hand.  Simply gorgeous, breathtaking and unbelievable.  Schools were closed (our last snow day allotted for the year) and life came to some what of a stand still.  Not only was there snow blanketing the tress but there was a layer of ice around and on top of everything.  Three days later, we are still basking in the beauty of that storm.  Nothing has melted, everything is still as it was Wednesday morning, with the exception of clear roads.  The sun has peeked out, two days in a row, and it highlights the ice on the landscape.  Not once was I disappointed about the storm; (hey we live in Michigan and its still typically winter),  but was completely thankful that God chose to bless us with such beauty.  Spring will come, with all its splendor and glory, and we will accept it, embrace it and enjoy it; yet for now, I'm choosing to enjoy, without yearning for spring, what God gives me each day.  I'm, typically, in the over-anxious mode, but God has been slowly showing me, directing my thoughts and eyes, to finding the blessings of each day.  All too quickly life can change, in the blink of an eye; my situation could always be worse; and that its all about perspective. God has a great way of changing one's perspective, sometimes he allows my story to encourage or challenge another and sometimes their stories challenge and encourage me; either way I'm choosing to "seize the moment" enjoying the offering from His hand. . . .

a Quandry. . .

Answer:  "Perplexity or uncertainty over what to do in a difficult situation"
I've been laboring over something, an issue, for quite some time.  It did not just appear but its been slowly becoming more evident each week.  This involves an issue that we continually address with our daughter, and even, at times both girls.  I am trying to be objective, yet I have this issue blatantly starring me straight in the face.  This is not only affecting me, but my manboys as well.  My struggle is confrontation; do I continue to pray and hope that God deals, personally, with this individual or do I take a bold step; of course with fear, trepidation and lots of prayer, and do it?  I've been praying, for weeks, about this; hoping that God would move in this person's heart; yet each week it gets a wee bit worse, and each week I'm finding myself getting more angry, to the point of seething.  Honestly I pray over this every single day, sometimes multiple times a day, asking God to give me wisdom and help in this area.  What to do? What to do? any suggestions?

a Victoria-ism . . . . .

Today dawned another beautiful spring-like day here in Michigan.  Victoria wanted to go outside and jump on the trampoline, so I took a book from class out to read while she jumped.  She climbed down, came inside and grabbed a drink box and brought it outside, sitting it beside me.  I looked at her and said, "take that back inside and put it back in the refrigerator."  She says, very emphatically, "How can you say no to a little girl who just wants a drink box?" then she looks at me and says, "huh?"

a Colson-ism. . . . .

This morning Branden went into the living room and asked Colson why he wasn't wearing green in honor of St. Patrick's Day.  Colson says, "Branden, Catholics wear green and Prostitutes (Protestants) wear orange!"

a Victoria-ism. . .

Jacqueline and Victoria were watching a kids game show tonight.  A group of kids enter and come on stage and Jacqueline says something about one of the boys being overweight (fat) and Victoria pipes in, "he's not fat he just ate too much food!" Gotta love the precious mind of a four year old and how they see life!

I can't. . . . .I won't. . . .really God?

For the past few months I've been struggling with something God has asked me to do, nothing major, but God and I have been doing the "battling of the wills"; what I want to do verses what He wants me to do.  Of course, I would give Him many reasons why I couldn't do what He was asking (non of which were valid) but for me they seemed good enough responses.  Last night during our prayer service, at church, Den had the opportunity to share.   He spoke out of Colossians 1:9-14 with the emphasis on, "Do you glorify God in your living?  do you reflect Him and His glory in all you do?"  That statement stopped me dead in my tracks.  I sat there, completely humbled, knowing that I was not glorifying God, especially when I'm trying to get "my" way.  I completely asked God's forgiveness and felt He shared with me an epiphany, "if you would just let go and allow me to work you would gain a better understanding of me and my Word.".  I surrendered my will, my wants, my way and am choosing His way.  What a "huge" relief it was to let go.   Now. . . .onto the task He has asked me to do! I'm totally up for it, ready and anxious to "take it on!"

Tori reading to her teddy bear.

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Adam and Evil

This morning Victoria slept in very late, I even checked in on her several times because typically she is up, at or before, 7am.  When she finally did make her way downstairs the first thing she says to me is, "mommy will you rockie me?"  (I love her morning snuggles and realize all too soon, that she will outgrown this stage.)  We made our way to the rocking chair and she settled in on my lap.  As we were chatting Colson began talking about Adam and Eve (Evil, as Colson used to say).  Victoria says, "hey guys, stop and listen to me, I know that story, let me tell it!"  She proceeds to share the story and I ask her if she heard that in Sunday School and she says, "no, daddy told it to me when I was in the tub one day."

Den has an unbelievable gift of story telling, real and make believe and he has, for all of our children, shared stories with them, especially Bible Stories.  I love to listen to his stories, too and I especially love hearing the kids retell them.  I am so thankful for this man God blessed me with; he's a fantastic husband, friend, dad and man of God! I love that he continues to take time and share God's Word with our kids, young and old.

What a blessing to have free karate offered at our church. We have an amazing instructor.

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Brennan has a special education teacher, at school, who has been causing him grief over carrying his Bible to class (Brennan is respectful, kind, thoughtful, considerate and in no way a disruptive teen). This has been going on for over a year.  This teacher wrote him up for having his Bible in her class ,last year, and gave him detention.  Of course, we immediately went to the administration where they, overstepping her classroom authority, revoked his detention.  This week he, once again, was called-out and sent into the hall for having his Bible on his desk, where she proceeded to tell him that he was NOT allowed to bring it there again.  Brennan doesn't propagate it, nor does he use it as a defense; he simply carries it to each class, just as the students who carry a Koran or students who carry "Llterature" books.  For some reason this teacher has some deep issues with the Bible and God.   We spoke to this teacher on Tuesday after the "incident" and its basically a case of, "he said, she said."

So. . . .now what?  We're still encouraging Brennan to carry his Bible, he still has the right too; and we are praying for his teacher.  Last night, after I prayed with Colson, he said, "mom we forgot to pray for Brennan's teacher and that she will find God."  So he and I, once again, approached the Throne of Grace and asked God to work in the heart of Brennan's teacher.

~A New Year's Day Wedding~

Our beautiful family

Victoria and Walker     

Colson and Wilson  

Bryan and Emily