Helllo, helllloo, hellllllloooooooo

Greetings and good evening! I don't know if you've ever seen Limoney Snicket's, "A Series of Unfortunate Events" (the kids have been reading the series for quite some time), but on the movie, Jim Carrey plays Count Olaf (the villian) and does an AMAZING job at it. At one point in the movie he enters the seen (a silhouette, floating on a boat, coming menacingly nearer and nearer) and he says, in his dastardly way, "helllo, hellllo, hellllooo". It's great stuff! Anyway, I've been saying that line for days and driving everyone crazy!

Anyway, it's been another fun-filled week at our house. Still on the antiobiotic 'goodies' - still having the same symptoms (one month and counting :0( Yuck!) Oh well! Things ARE getting better; slowly but surely. The acidophollus I'm taking is helping somewhat and I'm trying to stay away from spicy food too. One of the worst things is not being able to take my ADHD medication. There is some kind of chaotic mess goin' on in my brain - let me tell you!!! It ain't pretty!!! Life without stimulants (no coffee, no meds, no 'Friday night glass of red wine'). It's just raw and real around here these days! :0) God is patient and forgiving and Tony is an amazing guy - enough said ...

Maria had two birthday dinners this week (a family affair at Montana's - she HAD to wear the hat with the horns!) and her party with some friends at our house and skating at the Olympic Oval. My camera is on the fritz, so photos are "niente" at the moment. I think a good time was had by all (the CUPCAKES were a hit!) Yet, due to the inability to succesfully organize the gathering of 6 year olds, I felt as though Saturday's event was lacking in the "flow" department a little ... No one else seemed to get the sense that I felt the party was completely out of control (and the 6 to 9 year olds definately didn't mind :0) but next time, I think we'll NOT drive to another quadrent of the city to skate for 30 minutes :0)

I've also managed to complete my three case studies as part of my dissertation for the next exam for teaching (don't laugh too loud - but the hardest part was trying to keep my words down to 3500: I think I'm 400 over ... yikes!) I also finished my outline for the essay portion. I'm meeting with my teacher tomorrow for some guidance and direction and a list of new resources! :0) Let the games begin!! Deadline for Dissertation (3 part: case studies, essay and musical analysis), video of teaching and entry-fee = March 9th ...

Oh ya! And we bailed our lab, Rosie out of jail AGAIN today!!! This time they didn't let us off with a warning (I got a slightly serious tongue-lashing from the two by-law officers and a $100 ticket plus $38 'impound fee'. Broooother!!!) I'm just glad Tony had already left for work ... I think I displayed a rather impressive amount of self-control, if I do say so myself (I won't tell you what dialogue was playing in my head :0)

To top it all off, our neighbour with whom we have an unspoken 'arrangement' of parking (as far as he's concerned) popped over to inquire why I was parked so far back from our house during supper ... how neighbourly of him! :0) After I (hopefully) graciously explained that it was because Tony had been parked in front of me and had already left for work, I let him know that I would move my jeep up AFTER we finished our meal (smile, smile, smile) ... which I did. Scoreboard of the day: God's grace = 1 000 000 000 x infinity, my own strength = 0

It definately has been one of THOSE days ... I chuckle at how comically it sounds when I lay it all out like this. I'm glad God has given me the ability to laugh at myself once in awhile. Sometimes these little 'hic-ups' can get a person down, but there are bigger and better things to turn our thoughts to than the everyday ups-and downs of life.

Be blessed and good night, all! Thanks for checkin' out the blog ... hope you like the newest addition (music to read by :0) ... be back soon!

For Maria

Ever since I started blogging special entries for the kids, Maria has been asking, "When do I get mine?!" She isn't the subtle one in the family :0) I told her she would have to wait until her birthday. So, as this blessed event is nearing, here is my tribute to our beautiful Maria.

From the moment we discovered your conception, you have filled us with joy, Maria. You were a precious surprise to us (as all our children were) and we have rejoiced in the blessing of your life for 6 years (and 9 months :0)

While I was pregnant, we decided to have a home birth (after two car rides during labour, I had had enough of that!) So, we bought a giant 'blow-up' pool and waited for your arrival. We had to keep it ready, so every night before bed, I would roll the giant pool down the stairs into the living room - hoping that 'this might be the night'. Alas, for two weeks, every morning, I had to roll the giant pool back up the stairs! :0) You were getting pretty big and heavy in there for Mommy to be carrying you around all the time and I was ready to see your beautiful face!

On a chilly January evening, right after we had tucked your brother and sister into bed, I went into labour. Your timing was perfect and the evening was so peaceful. Your father and I walked back and forth in front of our old townhouse for a little while (I was in my favourite, thick, grey sweater - a gift from your Dad - and the only warm covering that would fit by then :0) After awhile, I needed to come into the house and call the midwives. While they were on their way, your Dad and I put on some relaxing music and slow-danced together during the contractions that slowly brought you closer to your very first birthday.

We were so calm, that by the time the midwives arrived, they didn't believe that I was as far along as I had said. Oh well! Believe it or not, you were on the way. We called Auntie Naomi to come and help and started filling up the "fishy pool" (no wonder you love to swim so much!) After a short time in the wonderful, warm water (and some fun photos in between contractions), you came to join your family.

You had thick, black hair and a squishy little face and hands that were all tightened up into little fists. Your Dad and I grinned from ear to ear - and we laughed and cried and rejoiced. Our Maria had arrived and our hearts would never be the same. Aunti Naomi prayed a beautiful blessing over you and we all went to bed in peace.

Tonight, we made chocolate cupcakes for you to take to school tomorrow and enjoy with your classmates. How can I express to you how proud of you we are? You are growing into a fine, young lady and we love to hear how everyone enjoys your company so much. You are a treasure, Maria. You are one of the few people on this earth that can turn your Dad's frown upside down, sweetheart. You are blessed with the gift of giving - you give of yourself and God uses you to bless others with joy, peace and love. We love to hear your precious voice as you sing out with passion and conviction. You have a very sensitive spirit and feel every emotion so deeply that anyone around can share in the moment. You are an intelligent, funny, beautiful, generous and talented person and we are so glad God wanted you to be our daughter.

So, on the joyful occasion of your birthday, let me share with you one of my favourite blessings from the Bible and may it be a comfort to you as you continue to grow into the wonderful woman God has planned you to be:

"The Lord bless thee, and keep thee:

The Lord make His face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee:

The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace."

Numbers 6:24-26

You are loved, Maria. Happy Birthday!

Love, Mom, Dad, Louis and Regina

Sunday Afterrnoon Blogging

Greetings, my long-neglected blogging friends. Please forgive me for my lengthy absence. I've been battling "side effects" from anti-biotics and trying to maintain some semblence of routine and order around my home (including a Group Lesson this past Saturday a.m. for 9 students and a small effort towards organizing my studies to prepare for an upcoming teacher's exam!).

So, here I am once again. I just finished my "Christmas gift" book - Margaret Laurence, 'A Bird in the House'. In typical "Steph" fashion ... I got to the end and scratched my head, "What was that all about?!" Then, as I turned the book over to read the back cover, everything slowly came into focus. It read, 'these 8 short stories ...' I thought I'd been reading a novel that made absolutely NO sense. Phew! Relief . . . I'll have to read that one again another time :0) What I did read, however, allowed me to share a connection with the author that confirmed my belief that we are not very different from each other on this earth - not really at all. (Another confirmation came after watching my favourite re-runs of 'Long Way Round', Outdoor Life Network with Ewan McGregor and Charlie Boorman ... love it!) Anyway ...

So, I went back to my old-faithful read ... Thomas Merton, "The Seven Story Mountain, An Autobiography of Faith". A very interesting gentleman who joined the Trappist monastery in the 1940's. A great quote of his says, "Without a life of the spirit our whole existence becomes unsubstantial and illusory." I've been trying to get through this book for almost 2 years. It just doesn't flow for me like others. I tend to read a few pages and then I need to ponder and think ALOT about what I just read. The back cover reads (yes, I read it first!) "(an) autobiography of a man who withdrew from the world only after he had fully immersed himself in it." I relate to him. On the occasion of this most recent read, the statement that stood out to me the most was, "...it is impossible for people to learn to write unless they also read." And with that, I moved on to my newest read ...

It's an extremely difficult book to read (emotionally, spiritually and visually). It is titled, "The Other Side of Ward; Women's Stories of Survival and Hope", by Zainab Salbi (President and Co-Founder of Women for Women International). She says, "War is not a computer-generated missile striking a digital map. War is the color of earth as it explodes in our faces, the sound of your child pleading, the smell of smok and fear. Women survivors of war are not the single image portrayed on the television screen, but the glue that holds families and countries together. Perhaps by understanding women, and the other side of war ... we will have more humility in our discussions of wars ... perhaps it is time to listen to women's side of history." A little over a week ago, I was out for lunch with my friend, Jenn. As we wondered around Chapters after some wonderful Vietnamese, I stumbled across this fascinating title.

It brought back a memory of learning about a small group of women from the United States (a group of older ladies from a small church), who began to sew quilts for families in Vietnam. They sewed hundreds of these blankets and then flew themselves over to Vietnam and met with a group of mothers with their children on an old, riquety bridge in the middle of a jungle. There is a very famous photo of this event and it is said to have been pivotal to the ending of that war.

Please understand that my next statement is generalist in perspective (something I try very hard to avoid). Nevertheless, at times, a broader perspective can become strikingly clear. In many cases (again, not all cases) but, many cases, men tend to focus on the differences between each other, between people and nations. Perhaps it's gender, perhaps its personality, perhaps both and many other factors. Generally speaking (generally), women tend to focus on things we have in common - we RELATE to each other and people's circumstances, etc. We try to empathize (not all but in general). It is not just interesting, but fiercely important, that men and women (in general) tend to have different strengths and weaknesses.

My husband has recently began a working relationship with a woman. At first, this raised some serious (and not necessarily mature) issues in my mind ... and in our conversations :0) Yet, now that I have had a chance to rationally think through my own fears and concerns (and vent to my nearest and dearest girlfriends :0), I am able to listen to Tony speak of the challenges she faces on a daily basis at work. I am astounded at the reactions of some of the men to her presence (regardless of her ability, strengths, experience and professionalism). It makes no difference whether he agrees with her position or not - because of his integrity and an amazing sensitivity to the female mind, Tony is able to fulfill the calling on his life and recognize the abilities in her that are beyond his own (like relating to certain individuals that he would rather not). There are things to be learned from each other. I have learned to appreciate and respect my husband for who he is in ways that I have never known before. Bravo, hubby, bravo! You are my champion :0) I believe, he has learned to recognize when I am seriously not in a joking mood :0)

Let me leave you with one last quote ... one that either confuses or comforts (or maybe both?)

"And God said, 'Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.

So God created man in His own image, in the image of God created He him; male and female created He them." Genesis 1:26-27 KJV

Playing Around with Photos :0)

Reaction vs. Response

Last night, we had a parent meeting at our children's school. The purpose of the meeting was to receive further information regarding a financial situation that has arisen due to the planned sale of the land our school is on. In order to grow, move forward and become increasingly established, our school has decided to enter into an agreement to purchase the land and facility. These are all good things. However, the responsibility of the parents is to provide a serious portion of the down payment for the purchase of this land. Without getting into further detail, there were some parents, who, understandably, were deeply concerned about the affordability of this project. Tony and I were two of them.

Let me say that 5 years ago (maybe even 2 years ago ...) Tony and I would have reacted with negativity, bitterness, jealousy and judgement to the dismal outlook of being able to afford what was being asked of us. It is a wonderful encouragement when you can look back on the person you used to be and praise the Lord for the way He has softened and changed our hearts - for the way He has created spiritual fruit in Your life that wasn't there before.

There were some parents last night who did react in fear - and I felt sympathetic to them. Yet, because Tony and I had not chosen to just react to the circumstance we were facing, but spent the Christmas holidays praying and seeking God, when the time came, we had such a peace about the whole situation we were actually surprised. God is faithful and as we sought His direction and guidance, His will became clear.

First, we spent time seeking his will. We questioned whether or not the Lord wanted our children at this particular school. It is a Christian school and we are thankful that our children are being fed with God's Word everyday, but we honestly let go of thinking that this was the only option available to us. Maybe God wanted us to place our children in a Spanish emersion school? Who knows? He does ... After discussing options, Tony and I each retreated into our own thoughts and spent days seeking God in our own way about His will. When the subject came up again, it was affirmed. Neither of us WANTED our children anywhere else. Our desires were steadfast and we were in agreement. Now what?

The next step was to see if what we desired was in line with God's will. We considered the financial provision for our family to be an answer and if that were to work out, it would be the confirmation of God's plan. In it all, we truly let the results be in God's hands. God has moved us before (recently, actually :0) from our home church and from our home neighbourhood - we have experienced change in huge ways and learned a lot about the process and the way that God can and does work out the details. We have learned, in very small ways, to trust God everyday. It's these moments that build the foundation of our faith so that when we are faced with a seemingly big circumstance, we can remember our trustworthy Lord and remain immovable in our faith.

God has confirmed our desires. Our finances HAVE worked out. There was some re-thinking about priorities and perspectives (yes, we can survive with an unfinished basement for a little while longer :0) and best of all we have a great peace in knowing that God's will is being fulfilled in our lives and the lives of our children. We are excited to see what is to come ...

I awoke this morning with optimism and thankfulness and sought the Lord early. The children and I prayed on the way to school and thanked God for His mercy and His grace and looked forward to the beginning of a new day and sung a song of rejoicing while we enjoyed the beautiful sky and majestic mountains. God whispered to my heart, "Are you reacting or are you responding?" I immediately thought of my friend Dawn and rejoiced again at how she had responded to the Lord in faith during a recent trial. I called her to share with her what God had been up to with me and the children this morning and we began our day with a smile and a light heart. Later, I remembered a quote from my father (not sure if it's an original or on loan ...) It reads, "Do not react, but rather, observe and respond in time." I found that a profound thought and it helped me to focus my attention on my own behaviours; questioning my perspectives during times of trial. I would like to expand this line of thinking with my own faith-based perspective ... "Do not react to the 'whats' of life but rather, learn to trust and respond TO the Lord". Hmmmm ... carying on ....

I was in a rather playful mood this morning and decided to phone my friend Terry to see if I could catch her sleeping and wake her up. (It's one of my favourite things to do! I never realized how much fun it is!)

I didn't get quite the response I had thought - Terry had already tried to call me at home as she and her husband had been up most of the night concerned and praying for a friend from church who had been admitted to the hospital with flesh eating disease. It had been a sudden and serious condition that shocked not only his wife and daughters, but the entire church family. He is still in hospital and we are all waiting to hear good news in hope and faith.

After experiencing such an elation and joyfulness in my heart for the way God has moved me to respond to Him in faith, receiving the life or death news of a cherished member of the church family left me shaking my head. And yet, it also seemed obvious what I needed to do - even though, in this circumstance, the temptation to react with fear was overwhelming simple. Fear is not even unexpected ... this was and is a seriously critical medical situation that has, by precedent, led to a commonly pessimistic prognosis. Nevertheless, I did not give attention to any feeling of feer our doubt on this day. In a moment of faith, I did not consider nor question God's intentions - I only prayed and let go.

What came to my mind was the story of Lazarus and how his sister had cried out to Jesus when she met him on the path, coming to her house. "If You had only been here," she said, "my brother would still be alive." What did Jesus do? Did he rebuke her as he did the Pharisees? Did he become angry as he did with the merchants at the temple? No. He wept.

He had compassion for the family and he wept. It was then that He called Lazarus from the tomb. It was this passage of scripture that I prayed today for this kind and generous husband, father and brother in faith to so many.

Would you pray with me? Would you respond, in faith, to a call to share in this family's trial by praying with them in the Name of Jesus?

Father, we come boldy to Your throne of grace. We share in this family's crisis and together respond with faith and hope. We believe that You are able to do as you did with Lazarus. You, who are our "strength and shield", You who are "faithful to all Your promises and loving to all You have made," we trust in You, O God. Lord, until you so choose to bring this man to Your heavenly dwelling, we pray with steadfast hearts that You would allow this man, who has given his life in devotion and worship to You - lovingly and cheerfully, to be healed completely and rejoice in Your mercy. We ask it in the Name of our Saviour, our Healer, our Redeemer and friend, Jesus the Christ.

"I will exalt You, O Lord, for You lifted me out of the depths, and did not let my enemies gloat over me. O Lord my God, I called to you for help and you healed me. O Lord, You brought me up from the grave; You spared me from going down into the pit. Sing to the Lord, you saints of His; praise His holy name. For His anger lasts only a moment, but His favour lasts a lifetime; weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning. When I felt secure, I said, 'I will never be shaken'. O Lord, when You favoured me, you made my mountain stand firm; but when You hid Your face, I was dismayed. To You, O Lord, I called; to the Lord I cried for mercy: 'What gain is there in my destruction, in my going down into the pit? Will the dust praise You? Will it proclaim Your faithfulness? Hear O Lord, and be merciful to me; O Lord be my help.' You turned my wailing into dancing; You removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing to You and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give You thanks forever." Psalm 30

Come what may, our Father, we pray, Your gracious, merciful and perfect will be done. We stand together, as One Body, One Blood, One Church, In Jesus' Name - on behalf of our brother in his time of need and bring him boldy to Your throne, that you may restore full health and that he may continue to serve you and proclaim Your greatness, even unto the ends of the earth - for the furthering of Your kingdom, according to Your desire, according to Your plan. Lord, hear our prayer, Amen.

"Rosie-Cheek" Weather!

Yikes! Is it ever cold out there! It's rather deceiving because the sun was shining so beautifully today ... but as soon as you step outside - that cold air bites at your cheeks! Ouch!

Well, we're back into the swing of things once again. School has begun again and violin and piano lessons are back on track.

I had an interesting conversation with my father yesterday evening. I am hoping to achieve my Licentiate (not licentious, right Terry?) level in music for teaching. However, I have come upon a road block. It seems, a pre-requisite to this level is Grade 8 Theory (under the London College of Music which is in the UK). I considered doing an Associate level Performance exam instead to try and get around this theory issue (I REALLY dispise theory :0) but alas ... it seems as though one of the components to the Associate Performance level is also a heavy-bit of theory. Ugh!

So, as I was explaining this to my father he said, "So what?! Theory is what it's all about! You should do the theory!" Although my mother was substantially more sympathetic to my whining (she has a musical understanding of the "ugh" of theory :0), my father's words hit a nerve.

"What are you talking about?", I exclaimed, "Theory is just TALKING about music instead of MAKING music! What came first the chicken or the egg?!", I asked. "Music was around long before anyone wrote it down and started analysing it!" But there it was ... the question of our humanity ... My father just laughed and said, "You should do the theory."

I came face-to-face with my own procrastination and unwillingness. I love to create a deep and philasophical argument about almost anything at all, rather than deal with the issue that is staring right at me! It seems, if I'm going to carry on with my studies, I must complete my theory.

Isn't this what we do with our relationships and especially with our relationships with the Lord? We say, "Ok - I'll forgive him/her for this ... but THAT .... THAT I won't forgive" or "Ok, Lord, I'll trust you in this area of my life ... but don't even go THERE!" Either we do or we don't - either we will or we won't. Yet, as black and white and simplified as that seems - the process of transformation is quite different.

As I sat in the doctor's office on Monday (for the second time since I became ill) I bowed my head and breathed a silent prayer while I was waiting. An overwhelming sense of peace came over me and I heard myself praying in my mind, "My health is yours, Lord - my health is yours - come what may." I feel much better and I'm on the mend but more than that - I feel at peace deep within in a way that can not be described.

It takes time to realize that once we come to know that GRACE and MERCY have been given freely to us, we only have to receive. There's nothing else to it. Our transformation comes from the understanding of who the Lord is and how He loves us. Everyday, that knowledge can change, if we let it - if we meditate on it - if we receive it.

I watched an interview on 100 Huntley Street yesterday morning with Phil Vischer (is it Phil? I think so ...) Anyway, he's the guy who created "Veggie Tales" (the reason we can associate so many "classic" songs with Bible Scripture - for example, 'The Bunny' or 'My Name is Daniel...' :0) Anyway, he said, 'until we realize we can just exist WITH God, what we do FOR God is just out of our own ideas and strength' (kind of paraphrased). It was an awesome interview and you could tell he was a man that had been humbled and been through a few things and come out the other side ... WITH God.

So, back to my theory ... I guess I will spend some time in prayer and ask God if this is the direction I am to go ... and if it is -I'll pray that He makes me willing and grants me the grace, strength and wisdom I need to complete the task, for His glory alone. Pray with me? Thanks!

"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4 4:4-7

For Regina

I have been unbelievably ill the last two and a 1/2 days. I've had horrendous chills, fever, muscle & joint aches that were, at times, almost unbearable. Then, a day into my own illness, Regina became ill, AGAIN, with the stomach flu. It has been a wicked flu season - and we've been hit something awful. It looks like we're going to make it and I finally feel well enough to sit up and type a few cohesive (hopefully) words ... although, I have been mixing up my thoughts in recent dialogue with my children :0) For example, "Regina, put that dog in the fridge." WHAT?! or "Louis, call your teeth." WHAT?! Anyhow, this probably isn't really that far from the norm :0)

So, with thanks for prayers and the precious care from family and friends (and some pretty blue antibiotic pills for me!) - we are on the mend. God is good and has seen us through.

I've just put Regina down for a good night's rest. She was a little upset this evening. You see, her sister has gone to spend the night at Mita and Pito's (upon her request) and her brother has gone for a sleep over at his friend Stephen's house. Tony is working - so that left just the two of us! Things went alright for awhile ... we watched Limmony Snicket's "A Series of Unfortunate Events" (a favourite for both of us) ... ate dried croutons with apple juice and followed up with a dose of "Just for Laughs" - the Gags reel. (I'm going to have to explain myself to Tony for that one in the morning - something about a fake peeing baby ... oh well - I was just glad that Regina had perked up and we were able to share a laugh) BTW ... right about now I know my mother is thinking, "Yup, she's definately feeling better ... the words are flowing again!" :0) Luv you, Mom.

Anyway, bedtime came around, too soon, as far as Regina was concerned. But, be that as it may - the inevitable is just that. After a rather thorough teeth brushing and a loooong good-night to each of our animals, Regina got herself into bed and waited for me to come tuck her in. As I climbed the stairs to her room (resting on every third stair to catch my breath and try to stop my head from pounding with the increasing elevation :0), a fond memory came to mind. I remembered when Regina was just a baby. I would get up 2 or 3 times in the night to feed her in her little nursery. I would hold her in my arms and sit in the rocking chair, in the dark and sing to her, quietly. It was an amazing moment for just the two of us. (She wasn't old enough to criticize my singing abilities or my need for a breath mint yet :0) But, seriously ... those moments are really precious for me and tonight as I knelt beside her bed, I reminded her again of how I used to sing her to sleep when she was still small enough to fit in the crook of my elbow. (She's heard the story alot - but still loves it!)

When Louis was born, our entire world changed. There is no other event I have experienced that changed my life like the birth of our firstborn child. He was and is a miracle to me. And then came Regina.

She was the easiest baby I could have imagined. She was always so content - no matter what the circumstances. We were in the midst of buying our first home one month after she was born and then we hurridly tried to finish a basement on top of it all! It was utter chaos for the first couple months of her life - yet she peacefully watched all the action with those big brown - wait - HUGE brown eyes staring out at us from her comfy little spot in the second hand car seat (thanks to Auntie Shar and Uncle Mark). I had to set a timer to feed her because we were so busy and she would never cry! After the work was all done and things started to settle - I found myself carrying her around all day long. I just loved to hold her and be near her and watch her beautiful face. I would stir soup for Lou while I held (and fed) Regina with my other arm. That was quite a trick! She was a comfort to me then - and she still is. She has been a comfort to many others as well.

When my sister, Shelley, had her gall bladder out, Regina was visiting Nonna and Pop. She held her hand and stayed by her side (I think Regina was 5? at the time). She tucks my dad into bed before for his sleep before he heads out for another shift in his big coal truck when she is there. She makes lunch, washes dishes, sweeps, dusts and has always cheerfully given her opinion on parenting tips for me! :0) And when my mother's very good friend died in November of this past year, Regina was there. She stayed with my mom for hours at the hospital and held her hand and prayed for Margaret - and she didn't want to be anywhere else.

Regina says she wants to be a doctor someday. This Christmas, Tony and I bought her an "Anatomy Torso" with a stethoscope and game cards. My nephew Taylor and I tried to answer some of the questions on the game ... it was a little tricky with Regina pronouncing the rather long words :0) We managed to get about a 1/4 of the answers between the two of us. Ah well ... I hope that if this is the plan God has for Regina's life, that He blesses her greatly with courage, ability, determination, perseverance and much grace to accomplish her goals and see her dreams fulfilled.

Regina, you are a blessing - you are a gift ... and I am so thankful for you, my sweet baby girl. Here's your song, babe. Enjoy :0)

Turn your eyes upon Jesus

Look full in His wonderful face

And the things of earth will grow strangely dim

In the light of His glory ance grace

Regina, I love you

Regina, I love you

Regina, I love you, my dear

Love, Mom

Happy New Year!

Greetings and a very happy new year to you all! I hope that the Christmas holidays were filled with wonderful memories and blessings beyond number. This is a photo of our "First Annual Christmas Day Pyjama Skate!" A quick recap of the last few weeks for us ...

Our kids started getting sick around December 10th ... we're still having a go 'round with the flu (Maria has finally had her turn with the stomach flu as of early this morning and Louis has just received the 'ok' to move onto normal food - minus dairy). Lord willing, this virus will be kicked by the time the kids go to school :0)

This is a photo of the girls at Auntie Shar and Uncle Mark's. With the big flakes of snow falling and the street lamp on their back deck, it was a perfect "Narnia" playland :0)

Christmas has come and gone, once again. Number 11 for Tony and I! They seem to come and go faster every year. We just got home a day and a 1/2 ago from visiting my family over the past week. I always have "mountain sickness" when I get back to the city. I miss the simplicity of small-town living and the beauty of being nestled in the mountains. Ah well ... sigh ... back to the hustle and bustle of city-living. It reminds me of how glad I am that Tony and I make it a priority in our lives to focus on the day-to-day routines and not get too busy with all the 'extras' that can try to crowd into our family life. I'm very thankful to be married to a man that is so devoted to his wife and children - if he's not at work, he just wants to be home with us.


This photo is at my mom and dad's place. Lou made a wonderful fire for us! The sleigh bells hanging on the mantel in the background are from an old sleigh from my father's child hood - he remember the sound they made as the horses pulled the old sleigh through the crisp snow while he and his siblings snuggled under a warm blanket and his mother and father drove the sleigh home. It is a precious memory and those sleigh bells still make a delightful sound!

Some excitement while I was down at my sister's with the kids ... Tony was in an accident (two actually ... one after the other). Everyone is ok - minor damage to the little 'jelly-bean' - just winter driving conditions and slower speeds required :0)

This is a photo at the ski hill of Regina and Maria (on the "Bunny Hill"). It was a great afternoon for them (although Gina complained of sore shoulders for the next couple of days :0)

We took the kids to see the new "Rocky" last night ... let me admit to you right now ... I actually cried at one point :0) Maria sang every time the Rocky-theme came on and we were all clapping for the end. It was a really good movie (we're a 'Rocky' family, already ... and this one was the icing on the cake for us :0) It's definately a must-see if you're a Rocky fan, like us! No swearing, no sexual-anything, no inappropriate humour ... lots of familiar 'Rocky-isms' and good ol' fashioned boxing (I noticed Tony had on his 'heavy-bag' gloves on today :0)

Well, it's very late (I'm having some blood-sugar issues and was on my way for a banana and a glass of milk when I got distracted :0) God bless and Happy New Year! Here's a Psalm to begin 2007!

"O God, you are my God;

I earnestly search for you.

My soul thirsts for you;

my whole body longs for you

in this parched and weary land
where there is no water.

I have seen You in Your sanctuary
and gazed upon You power and glory.
Your unfailing love is better to me than life itself;
how I praise You!
I will honour You as long as I live,

lifting up my hands to You in prayer.

You satisfy me more than the richest of foods.

I will praise You with songs of joy.

I lie awake thinking of You,

meditating on You through the night.

I think how much You have helped me;

I sing for joy in the shadow of Your protecting wings.

I follow close behind you;

Your strong right hand holds me securely." Psalm 63:1-8

One More Sleep Until Christmas Eve!

"After this I looked, and there before me was a door standing open in heaven. And the voice I had first heard speaking to me like a trumpet said, 'Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this.' At once I was in the Spirit, and there before me was a throne of heaven with someone sitting on it. And the One who sat there had the appearance of jasper and carnelian. A rainbow, resembling an emerald, encircled the throne. Surrounding the throne were twenty-four other thrones, and seated on them were twenty-four elders. They were dressed in white and had crowns of gold on their heads. From the throne came flashes of lightning, rumblings and peals of thunder. Before the throne, seven lamps were blazing. These are the seven spirits of God. Also before the throne there was what looked like a sea of glass, clear as crystal.

In the center around the throne, were four living creatures, and they were covered with eyes, in front and in back. The first living creature was like a lion, the second was like an ox, the third had a face like a man, the fourth was like a flying eagle. Each of the four living creatures had six wings and was covered with eyes all around, even under his wings. Day and night they never stopped saying:

'Holy, holy, holy

is the Lord God Almighty,

who was, and is, and is to come.'

Whenever the living creatures give glory, honour and thanks to Him who sits on the throne and who lives for ever and ever, the twenty-four elders fall down before Him who sits on the throne, and worship Him who lives for ever and ever. They lay their crowns before the throne and say:

'You are worthy, our Lord and God,

to receive glory and honour and power,

for You created all things,

and by Your will they were created

and have their being.' Revelation 4:1-11

'In the sixth month, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazateth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin's name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, 'Greetings, you whoa re highly favoured! The Lord is with you.'

Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, 'Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favour with God. You will be with child and give birth to a son, and youa re to give him the name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David, and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever; His kingdom will never end." Luke 1:26-33

"Turn to Me and be saved, all you ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is no other. By Myself I have sworn, My mouth has uttered in all integrity a word that will not be revoked: Before Me every knee will bow; by Me every tongue will swear. They will say of Me, 'In the Lord alone are righteousness and strength.' Isaiah 45:22-24

"Praise be to the Lord, to God our Saviour, who daily bears our burdens. Our God is a God who saves; from the Sovereign Lord comes escape from death." Psalm 68:19-20

For thousands of years, God has been saying the same thing over and over again. He is faithful and He keeps His promises. Salvation is in Him alone and we do not need to fear. He has the power to save and to change our hearts - if we say, 'Yes, Lord'. Maybe you know the story, yet wonder why you continue with the same struggles you've had for so long ... maybe you just don't think God could accept someone like you - you're just too far gone.

Well, my friends, God loves you. God loves you - He loves you ... and you need not fear. Put your trust in the only One who is worthy of our honour and worship. Faith brings a relationship that is the most precious relationship any of us could every have ... faith in salvation through the Lord Jesus Christ - the only way, truth and life - brings peace and an eternal perspective that changes everything, if we take the time to let it.

May we all, truly see His glory this Christmas ...

4 More Sleeps 'Til Christmas Eve!!!

How excited are we?!?!?! I called my sister yesterday at work singing, "It's beginning to look alot like Christmas ..." Although the snow has almost disappeared and the roads and lawns are brown and dirty, I have a light feeling in my heart and Christmas Carols on my lips.

I spent most of my day today with my dear friend, Terry. (Mom #2 :0) She graciously took me to my doctor's appointment and waited so patiently for 2 hours until I was finished ... although my mom can't always be arms-length away (as much as I know she'd like to), I'm glad that God brings people like Terry into my life and blesses me with love and affection (and the occasional kick-in-the-pants! :0)

I've been thinking about what it means to have "Godly character" lately. What does it mean to be Christ-like? What does it mean to live out our faith? I hope in the Lord to continue to change my ways to be more like Him and feed on the daily bread that He provides for my soul. This morning the kids and I had a rough start to our day ... we all woke up cranky and bickering. Once we got out the door and headed off to school, we started to talk about what just happened. We were all feeling bad. So I suggested we spend a few minutes in silent prayer and then we'd pray together. After we finished praying we talked some more and then I asked the kids if they had a Scripture that we could think about throughout our day. Something to bring to mind when we knew we were beginning to struggle in our own thoughts or behaviours.

I was amazed at how the Holy Spirit taught me through my kids this morning. They each spoke Scripture that they had learned and memorized in school. Louis spoke from Psalm 121, "I lift my eyes up to the hills - where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip - He who watches over You will not slumber, indeed, He who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep." Regina spoke from Ephesians 6, "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother - that it may go well with you." Maria spoke from 1Corinthians 13, "Love is patient and love is kind."

Of all the gifts that we will open and share this Christmas, I am most thankful for the way God has always known what we need. The children needed to know that they are loved and accepted this morning - no matter what ... and I needed to know that God hears my prayers and to be Christ-like as a Mom is to seek the Lord and trust that He is ever-watchful over my life. And as I continue to be nourished and grow in His love, I will be worthy of my children's obedience and become more and more patient and kind.

Today, Terry bought me a wonderful present - a book that I have been wanting to read for almost 2 years (has it really been that long?!?! Yikes!) Anyway, it's called "The Practice of the Presence of God" by Brother Lawrence. In truly "mother-ly" fashion, as I asked Terry to write in the front of my book out of my sentimental heart, her quick response was, "Merry Christmas! Read it and do what you're told!" I love her :0) I've started it already and it's everything I hoped it would be and more. Here's an excert I hope you'll enjoy as much as I did - it's from the chapter called "Conversations" as told by a colleague:

"So, likewise, in his business in the kitchen (to which he had naturally a great aversion) which I can completely sympathize with, S :0) having accustomed himself to do everything there for the love of God, and with prayer, upon all occasions, for His grace to do his work well, he had found everything easy, during fifteen years that he had been employed there.

That he was very well pleased with the post he was now in; but that he was as ready to quit that as the former, since he was always pleasing to himself in every condition by doing little things for the love of God.

That with him the set times of prayer were not different from other times; that he retired to pray, according to the directions of his superior, but that he did not want such retirement, nor ask for it, because his greatest business did not divert him from God.

That as he knew his obligation to love God in all things, as as he endeavored so to do, he had no need of a director to advise him, but that he needed much a confessor to absolve him. That he was very sensible of his faults, but not discouraged by them; that he confessed them to God, but did not plead against Him to excuse them. When he had so done, he peaceably resumed his usual practice of love and adoration.

That in his trouble of mind he had consulted nobody, but knowing only by the light of faith that God was present, he contented himself with directing all his actions to Him, i.e. doing them with a desire to please Him, let what would come of it."

You know when you're reading a really good book and you pause every few moments to really absorb what you're reading and savour the wisdom while you let out a sigh of peace and contentment? That's what this book does for me ... it's like a hug :0)

10 Days and Counting ... :0)

My mother brought this short story up the other day and I loved it. So, I thought I would share it with you ...

"One day, the father of a very wealthy family took his son on a trip to the country with the express purpose of showing him how 'poor' people live.

They spent a couple of days and nights on the farm of what would be considered a very poor family.

On their return from their trip, the father asked his son, 'How was the trip?'

'It was great, Dad.'

'Did you see how the poor people live?' the father asked.

'Oh, yes,' said the son.

'So, tell me, what did you learn from the trip?' asked the father.

The son answered:

'I saw that we have one dog and they had four. We have a pool that reaches to the middle of our garden and they have a creek that has no end. We have imported lanterns in our garden and they have the stars at night. Our patio reaches to the front yard and they have the whole horizon. We have a small piece of land to live on and they have fields that go beyond our sight. We have servants who serve us, but they serve others. We buy our food, but they grow theirs. We have walls around our property to protect us, they have friends to protect them.'

The boy's father was speechless. Then his son added,

'Thanks Dad for showing me how poor we are.'" Perspective ...

For the past four days all three kids have been pretty sick. Lou had his first day back at school today but Maria and Regina are still flat-out on the couch. Fevers, sore throats, coughs and now Regina is throwing-up ... I hate when the kids are sick. I feel so helpless. Tony and I have been trading shifts - he was up 4 times last night and I get them all day when he is at work. I keep asking if there's anything I can do, if there's anything they need - because, when they're feeling so awful, I would give them anything they asked for if I thought it would help them feel better. The only thing they want (aside from the occasional popsicle :0) is for me to hold them, cuddle with them, rub their heads/stomachs/backs/feet ... and just be near. Every once in awhile, one of them calls out for Tony or I and we coming running. Most of the time they just need to tell us that their throat hurts or their tummy hurts. They just need us to know and understand. It's the simplest of human connections.

No wonder God call us his children.

Well, Regina needs me to hold her hair back while she ... well ... you know. The glamorous life of a MOM - I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world.

11 Days Until Christmas!

Good morning! Can you believe it?! Only 11 days until Christmas! Where has the time gone? Does it feel like time seems to pass faster and faster with every year? It's funny how 11 days for the kids seems like an eternity ... yet for Tony and I, it's "ohmygosh ... we only have 11 days to get this ever-growing list of things done!" :0) Perspective ...

I wonder if this is how the apostle Paul felt when he said, "We live by faith, not by sight. We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord. So we make it our goal to please Him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad." 2Corinthians 5:7-10


There are days when Tony and I look at the state this world is in, especially with Tony's calling in life, and wonder when the Lord will return again ... we long for it - for peace among all of His people. We feel like the children waiting for Christmas to arrive: "11 more days?! That's gonna take forever!!" :0) Yet, at the same time, I do not want Him to come quite yet. There are many who do not yet know His salvation - many who have not yet received new life through Him. Many I love who do not claim the name of Jesus Christ as their Lord. There is much to be done in, with and through His Kingdom. So, like our parental-selves, we exclaim, "There's so little time left to accomplish so much!" :0) And so we 'walk by faith and not by sight'.





What if we knew WHEN He would return? What if everyone on this earth knew and believed that He WAS returning? How would things be different? How would we set our priorities? How would our choices be different?


You know, I like that we have a family of five and that our table seats six. Often, when I'm setting the table, I feel like setting an extra place for Jesus. He's always with us. He's part of our family and every moment of our lives. We are so very thankful for the life He has given us. Last night, we watched the movie, "Click" with Adam Sandler (not a kids movie, BTW ... we had to fast forward a TON of stuff ... ) The point was that we can get into an "auto-pilot" mode in life. Just working, sleeping, eating, working, sleeping, eating, working, sleeping, eating. And maybe, somewhere in there - shopping, video-gaming, movie-ing, eating, drinking ... I don't know ... you know what your addictions are - whatever those things we all use to numb the "routines" of life and help us to feel some kind of 'satisfaction'. We REWARD OURSELVES instead of receiving the blessings from God with thankfulness.


Anyway, Adam Sandler's character had lost perspective. He was focused on the "here and now" stuff instead of having any kind of eternal vision. He genuinely loved his family and his children, but had a very typical 'western' ideaology of work, work, work and you will provide for your family what you never had. But, the thing is, what HE had was two parents who may not have had alot of money or material things - but they LOVED each other deeply - and they loved him too! He missed the point!


Tony and I appreciated the story of the movie (not so much the language or humour) but didn't feel like it spoke to our lives. We just don't have those issues - thankfully. There was a time in our lives when I was working full time, Tony was working full time and the kids were being raised by others (BTW - thank you to our cousin Jenn for being a consistent, loving influence in our children's lives for so many years ... you are a blessing! :0) But, Tony and I never connected as a couple, we were stressed with the kids because of exhaustion and we didn't have a long-term vision for our family or the ability to make healthy decisions for ourselves or our children (cuzn' Jenn could attest to the amount of Pizza that came in through our front door! Domino's actually sent us a Christmas Card - I'm not kidding ...)

I'm not saying that working hard is bad - not at all. But our focus during those periods was not about being thankful for the work we had to do or fulfilling a calling on our lives ... it was pure panic-mode, just trying to 'get ahead'. Well, we survived and things have definately changed. We have learned a little bit of patience can take you through ALOT of hard times. We've learned that if we can't afford something "right now", that it can probably WAIT! We've learned that if you are willing to put in the effort, God will bless those efforts and everything will work out alright. We've learned that when God uses people to bless you, there will come a time to give back! and it feels really good to be able to bless others! :0)


In the Old Testament, in the book of Ecclesiastes, there is a statement that reads, "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven". What season are you in right now? Are you sowing when you should be plowing? Are you harvesting when you should be watering? Are you toiling when you should be resting? Or are you seeking wisdom and learning to be sensitive to the whisper of the Holy Spirit each and every moment of the day?


Let me leave you with the rest of this Scripture to ponder today. May we seek the Lord in this glorious season, in that deepest, quiet place within our hearts and find Him there - patiently waiting for our response.

" There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under heaven:

a time to be born and a time to die,

a time to plant and a time to uproot,

a time to kill and a time to heal,

a time to tear down and a time to build,

a time to weep and a time to laugh,

a time to mourn and a time to dance,

a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,

a time to embrace and a time to refrain,

a time to search and a time to give up,

a time to keep and a time to throw away,

a time to tear and a time to mend,

a time to be silent and a time to speak,

a time to love and a time to hate,

a time for war and a time for peace.

What does the worker gain from his toil? I have seen the burden God has laid on men. He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men: yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end. I know that there is nothing better for men that to be happy and do good while they live. That everyone may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all his toil - this is the gift of God. I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it. God does it so that men will revere Him."

Ecclesiastes 3:1-14

We Pass This Way But Once ...

On my way to my re-connect with my dear "Lady's Group" last night at their annual Christmas gathering, a profound question entered my mind ... am I living or am I dying? Science will tell us that biologically, we die a little more every day. Our bodies just aren't meant to last forever. There are definatley some things we can do to help our physical health but eventually, everything will "wear out" - it's inevitable - no matter how much hope we have in our human innovations - and let me tell you, I have bought more than a few "anti-wrinkle" creams in my day :0) there just isn't an "anti-death" needle any person could offer that would change the state of our earthly existence :0)

It got me to wondering about my eternal soul ... whether or not I am awakening to FURTHER LIFE everyday or am I just merely moving toward my ultimate end? What does it really mean to be ALIVE? And what is it that determines the answer to this question? What is eternity and will I 'get there' if I'm 'good enough'?

I am a "glass half full" person - however, I do not think it is my finite perspective or flawed personality that defines my eternal existence (or lack of :0) As intelligent as I like to think I am ('know thyself', right Doug?) I have been thinking alot lately about living in eternity. Don't get me wrong - I'm not daydreaming about the 'someday' of heaven ... I believe that "the kingdom of heaven is NEAR" and that eternity is NOW. I think eternity is an existence outside of the measured time we live in during our day to day lives. It's the reality of being 'outside of time and space' just as real as the One who exists there :0) So ... how do we decide if we are 'living' or 'dying'?

I could give you the good news of Jesus Christ (yet again :0) and I probably will end up getting there ...) but what do we do with that knowledge? I had an interesting conversation with my parents while they were up about the amazing advances of our 'information age'. We have more information at our fingertips than we've ever had and everyday we have access to more and more. How has it changed our existence as a people? No longer do our children sit and listen as those more experienced tell tales of wisdom and direction (like we did last night as our beloved Neva, age 77 my dear? told us a wonderful story of hope and faith). No longer do we take the time to ponder the writings of those who have offered their deepest thoughts, feelings and dreams to us (unless you consistantly sit through my lengthy bloggings :0) Thanks, BTW) No longer do we have the patience to discover for ourselves what life has to offer as we take risks. Not at all. We just consume the 'action' and 'excitement' of TV, movies and the marketed-creations for the masses - accepting what is offered to us and feeding on 'less than savoury' meals of greed, jealousy, revenge, violence, lust, gossip, adultery, self-centered idolatry ... I could go on and on ... All of which leaves a sour, bitter taste in our mouths and the rotting of death in our souls (well, if Mel Gibson can be graphic, so can I, yes? :0) And remember, I use 'we' because I have tasted and I have seen what is being offered here on earth as well as from heaven ...

We all have a hunger for knowledge within us - some choose to be fed by the 'junk food' option while others crave a healthier, more fulfilling meal. Which is which? I believe it is that which brings LIFE! Ah-ha!

When I was with 'my' ladies last night, I wanted to know all about what had been happening with them lately. I craved a deeper knowledge of their lives and 'goings-on'. I KNOW these ladies very well and they me - and I wanted to continue that knowing. I wanted to know what God had been up to with them :0) I said it felt like coming home for Christmas. It was the familiarity of family - of being KNOWN. We ladies are of all different ages, shapes, sizes, backgrounds and opinions. We are a diverse group! Yet, the common bond in each face that I saw was a glowing sense of "LIFE" ... we are all moving towards a deeper, more meaningful LIFE everyday - we are all becoming MORE ALIVE moment by moment with our Saviour that we all share ... it's a LIFE filled with purpose, love, commitment, friendship, faith and hope.

Here is a Scripture that brings LIFE to our soul if we will receive it:

" 'Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a member of the Jewish ruling council. He came to Jesus at night and said, "Rabbi, we know you are a teacher who has come from God. For no one could perform the miraculous signs you are doing if God were not with him.'

In reply Jesus declared, 'I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.'

'How can a man be born when he is old?' Nicodemus asked, 'Surely he cannot enter a second time into his mother's womb to be born?'

Jesus answered, 'I tell you the truth, no one can enter the kingdom of heaven unless he is born of water and the Spirit. Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirt gives birth to spirit. You should not be surprised at my saying, 'You must be born again.' The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.'

'How can this be?' Nicodemus asked.

'You are Israel's teacher,' said Jesus, 'and do you not understand these things? I tell you the truth, we speak of what we know, and we testify to what we have seen, but still you people do not accept our testimony. I have spoken to you of earthly things and you do not believe; how then will you believe if I speak of heavenly things? No one has ever gone into heaven except the one who came from heaven - the Son of Man. Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes in Him may have eternal life.

For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him. Whoever believes in Him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because He has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son. This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.

Everyone who does evil hates the light and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God.' " John 3:1-21

Ah, Nicodemus - how he speaks for all of us who have known the confusion that comes before our Spirit is made alive in Jesus Christ. Even a great leader of the day, with fear and trembling came to inquire of the Lord and He offered words of LIFE to him. We need not fear when we have Jesus as our righteousness - we have only to receive the only reconciliation He offers - through accepting His LIFE and SACRIFICE and having a RELATIONSHIP with Him ... knowing and being known.

Our self-centred, good-intentioned deeds are altogether evil without him - the Bible says they are like, "filthy rags" to God. It's like showing up for a banquet without acknowledging the host and worse, somehow taking credit for it all! :0) But LIFE through the Son is a "sweet fragrance" in heaven - and the kingdom of heaven is near, my friends. It's deep within us, calling out to us, inviting us to enter into enternity through Him who saves us and exist every moment with the

One Living God of Love,

who created us to KNOW and ENJOY Him.

It's a GOOD LIFE filled with HOPE and GOOD NEWS, do you agree?

May this Scripture breath life into our souls. May we all choose life today, in Jesus' name.

Merry Christmas!

Hello, again!

It's been a WHOLE week since I blogged! Yikes! I just read Kimberly's blog about the different personality types ... Yup! I'm definately Sanguine (or 'orange', right, Terry?) Anyway, here I am, once again ...

Lou-man has a fever and is parked on the couch under a cozy blanket watching Star Wars. Poor kid. He is quite lethargic and has this look in his eyes like, "please don't make me talk, blink, think or exert any energy at all other than that which is required for breathing" :0) So, he's taking a sick-day.

Maria had a morning out with her piano teacher - she had some wonderful idea for a gift for Tony and I for Christmas ... she really does light up a room with her enthusiasm. It's one of my favourite characteristics about her.

Regina has a Social Studies test today - so, with much prayer and hard work, we all hope she does well. Our entire family can tell you alot about the Inuit people and the Ukrainians and Acadians who came to settle here. It's been a very educational unit for us all :0)

We had Tony's "work" Christmas party for the kids yesterday. It was fun and the kids loved to play with all the other little ones and receive their gifts. Regina got an "Easy-Bake" oven, which brought a tear to my eye. One of my favourite memories of my Baba (my mom's mom), was baking with my "Easy-Bake" oven in her apartment when I was just a little younger than Regina. Louis loved his legos, of course and Maria's eyes grew four-times their size when she opened her "Littlest Pet Shop" house and animal 'thingy'. (That's an official word ... :0)

Tony and I had a date-night last night ... woohoo ... I love our date nights. We get to go out and discuss "adult-like" things (politics, religion, why the kids at the theatre always argue with us about putting on the extra 'orange salt' on our popcorn :0) We saw "Apocolypto" (did I spell that right?) Anyway, it was basically 'Braveheart' in the jungle ... but we both really liked it. However, I think I'll be taking down my 'Aztec' calendar today ... not a culture we would like to honour in our home :0) The movie got us talking about Tony's ancestors and how we'd like to learn more about he "Pipil" language ... it is the dying language of the indigenous (sp?) people of Central America. His uncle knows a little and has some written down in one of his 1000 little notebooks that he frequently fills up with trivia.

Well ... I need to go - but I'll try and add some more later. May God bless you today in unique ways and may we all have thankfulness in our hearts and words of praise on our lips! :0)

Ciao!

Sunday Morning Sleep-In

Good morning! It's a sleepy-eyed Sunday morning! We had a very full day yesterday and I'm glad to be able to just hang-out in my favourite jammies for a little while (thanks for the jammies, Mom :0) We had our first Christmas Recital yesterday (both girls played), Louis went skiing with his friend from school and then it was off to Mita and Pito's for a quick 'pupusa' (don't ask me how to spell that - they just taste REALLY good! :0) And finally on to church!

The recital went really well. I enjoy looking out at all the people's faces - parents, families, friends and all the children ... there's expectation, excitement and hope in those faces. It's truly a wonderful sight. One of the highlights of the recital was listening to our guest vocalist sing "Breath of Heaven" ... it's such a beautiful song and it was the perfect way to start the concert. All of the kids were great - my favourite Christmas carols are the ones played by little fingers who can barely reach the notes! :0) Those kids have great courage to get up and play in front of 100 people!!! To be able to share the celebration of the Christmas story with our students and their families and friends as well as our own ... it was a blessed time and it made me thankful that I'm a teacher.

Our pastor's wife gave the message at church last night. The message was on "Communidad" (Community). I mentioned to my friend (who graciously translates for me whenever I lean my ear over) that at some point I will stop giggling everytime I understand what's being said :0) The message was very clear - and something that spoke right to my heart. When our family came to this new church, I knew that God was showing me to "wash some feet". In other words, I know that for me, it is a time of humility and service. It's no burden, however, because as my love for this new church family continues to grow - I'm happy to serve. My cousin Jenn and I had a good laugh yesterday as I was explaining this to her. Funny how God brought me to a place where I can't 'speak' - just be quiet and serve. She thought this must be terribly difficult for me :0) Brings a whole new meaning to "Let my words be few" ... :0)

Well, today is the first day of Advent ... I always love this family tradition. As we rush around from place to place - celebrating, visiting, shopping - I love that our family can take a few minutes at the end of every day to remember why we have this sense of excitement and anticipation. When I think of how God came in the flesh - as a BABY, no less! - it really helps me to understand that WE ARE KNOWN. He knows how we feel, what we think, when we struggle and what our struggles are! He knows why we laugh, how we like to celebrate and enjoy Him as well as our desire for community - family, friends, church, neighbours, co-workers, cities, nations and even our little globe :0) These are His desires too - for harmony, unity and peace (No, Hallmark did NOT come up with that idea! :0) If I ever start misunderstanding God's "intentions" or will for my life - if I ever start thinking that He is 'just waiting for me to screw things up' or feeling that He is far away - just Someone 'out there somewhere' ... all I have to do is remember the little baby Jesus in the manger. - fully God and fully man.

Here's a good word to remember at this time of year. RELAX - Webster's Dictionary defines it as "make or become less stiff, rigid or tense; make or become less formal or strict; cease work or effort; at ease, unperturbed". Okay - can I get an AMEN! :0) I don't think relax is equal to lazy!! But where are our efforts to be directed and what is the source of our strength? We do not need to EARN our salvation (our desire for REAL life - our desire to be SAVED from that darkness that tries to invade our daily thoughts - the REALITY of sin). We do not need to expend EFFORT into trying to be "good enough" for God - He already KNOWS us ... do I hear a collective sigh of relief? He has taken away the sins of the world - sound familiar? We are not going to have some ultimate screw up that will cause Him to say, "hmmm - where's my eraser? that one's out of my book!" :0) Guess what? That 'ultimate screw up' has already been taken care of - thank you Adam and Eve ... and that's who's inheritance we share (life away from God) until we receive our adoption into God's kingdom through the blood of Jesus.

It's all been done. Or in the words of our Lord, "It is finished" ... We all have a desire for peace - don't we all at some point every day just wish that we could slow down and RELAX just for five minutes?!?! What if that peace and that sense of RELAX (of BECOMING less stiff, rigid, formal and structured) was the gift that Jesus gave when He came - lived and died - for us? He, Himself said, "My peace I give you - go in peace". Hallelujah! Does that mean we just lay around and wait for the glorious returning of our Lord? Ummm - sorry - No. But it does mean that we can find our strength in the One greater than ourselves. Isn't it a great feeling when we can reflect on a good days "work" and know that what we accomplished came out of knowing that we were doing exactly what God asked us to do? Even if our bodies are tired - don't we feel satisfied and happy? Don't we feel thankful because we can hear Him say "well done, good and faithful servant" ? That's all the encouragement we need! :0)

My prayer today is this: Lord, thank You for Your wisdom. Thank You for the way You KNOW our needs - so much more than we do. Thank You that You LOVE us with a perfect, holy love. Thank You that You LOVE us as a Father - our Abba - our Dad ... Thank You for Your desire for us ... for coming in the flesh to make the way for us - thank You for taking away our sin and offering us life in abundance. Thank You for peace. Lord, I ask today - simply this - that everyone who reads these words will have an increased sensitivity to You, Lord. That You would open our eyes to see and our ears to hear all the ways You reveal Yourself to us. Open our heart to You, Lord and let us be "gratefully grace-filled". In the Name of our friend, Jesus. Amen.

I'll leave you with one of my favourite Christmas Carols. It describes the longing that Israel felt waiting for the Saviour to come and the expectations they had. BTW - Emmanuel means "God with us" and it is one of the names of Jesus.

"O Come, O Come, Emmanuel"

Words Translated by John Mason Neale

Music: Thomas Helmore

O come, o come,
Emmanuel

and ransom captive Israel,

that mourns in lonely exile here,

until the Son of God appears

Rejoice! Rejoice!

Emmanuel - shall come to thee, O
Israel

O come, O come, Thou Lord of Might,

Who to Thy tribes, on Sinai's height,

In ancient times didst give the law,

In cloud, and majesty, and awe.

Rejoice! Rejoice!

Emmanuel - shall come to thee, O Israel

O come, Thou Rod of Jesse,free

Thine own from Satan's tyranny;

From depths of hell Thy people save

And give them victory o'er the grave.

Rejoice! Rejoice!

Emmanuel - shall come to thee, O Israel

O come, Thou Dayspring, come and cheer

Our spirits by Thine advent here;

Disperse the gloomy clouds of night,

And death's dark shadows put to flight.

Rejoice! Rejoice!

Emmanuel - shall come to thee O Israel

O come, Thou Key of David, come,

And open wide our heavenly home;

Make safe the way that leads on high,

And close the path to misery.

Rejoice! Rejoice!

Emmanuel - shall come to thee O Israel

O come, Thou Wisdom from on high,

And order all things, far and nigh;

To us the path of knowledge show,

And cause us in her ways to go.

Rejoice! Rejoice!

Emmanuel - shall some to thee O Israel

O come, Desire of nations, bind

In one the hearts of all mankind;

Bid Thou our sad divisions cease,

And be Thyself our King of peace.

Rejoice! Rejoice!

Emmanuel - shall come to thee, O Israel