O Christmas Tree!

This is a momentous post. As of this week I've officially written over 100 posts. Small-time for many of my blogger friends, but reason enough to celebrate for me :).

I've seen many posting their Christmas trees so I thought I'd post the Terry's Tree. This year's is my favorite.

Merry Christmas!

This was another full weekend. I've been rehearsing the choir at our church for the last three weeks and trying to build our numbers. It's been difficult in this busy season. I even had to beg Vance to sing tenor because we only had two other tenors. Actually, he did it happily. I thought everything went really well.


We showed up with all our kids at 2pm on Saturday and rehearsed with the band and the choir. We broke at 5pm to have dinner at the church then service at 6:30pm. We got home about 9pm. Everyone was exhausted.


The alarm went off at 6:45am this morning. This was the first morning Kael, Morgan and Rachie didn't climb into my bed and wake me up, but I had to get up and get ready. We arrived at church at 8am and did the two services this morning.


Later on, we went to Sam's and got home for just enough time to sit and feed Tristan. Then, at 4:30 I packed up my keyboard and went to a conference center down the street to set it up so I could lead some carols at a banquet for our AWANA leaders. It was tons of fun. Those AWANA people really know how to throw a party.


So, my intentions over the last three weeks were to be prepared for all the singing events, have my Christmas cards finished and sent out, have the house cleaned and the gifts wrapped before Christmas Eve. It looks like another Christmas Eve being up until 2am wrapping and some will receive their cards a little late. But, the good thing about that is that those who receive a late card will also get our new and improved picture.


Here it is.

Merry Christmas from the Terrys!

Advent Conspiracy

Survivor Part Three

Although Mae Louis Westervelt and her husband never attained their dream of providing a home for missionary children, God did allow them to secure several low-cost homes in Denny Terrace, a community near Columbia Bible College. These were rented to students and to missionaries home on furlough. With a sensitive heart, Mae Louise prayed, wrote and gave sacrificially to those serving God on foreign fields. Then, unexpectedly, she was hit for the fifth time. "One day as her husband changed a tire by the roadside, he was killed by a drunken driver."

But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the surpassing greatness of the power may be of God and not from ourselves; we are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying about in the body the dying of Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body (2 Corinthians 4:7-10)

"Undaunted, Mae Louis walked the streets of Denny Terrace, selling Avon products to support her adopted son, and sharing the good news of life in Christ. On Fridays she visited the sick in the hospital. On Thursdays there was an evangelistic home visitation, at other times there were Bible studies with the unsaved." As unknown yet well-known...as sorrowful yet always rejoicing, as poor yet making many rich, as having nothing yet possessing all things" (2 Corinthians 6:9, 10)

Then came the sixth wave. "A pacemaker extended her fragile life, but she just kept pressing on. Sunday morning she would gather a load of little boys in her rattly old Plymouth, bring them to Sunday School and sit with them as they wiggled their way through the worship service." At Christmastime Dr. McQuilken told her, "You are one of my true heroes!" A hero she was, a soldier of the cross. Mae Louise had lived at Calvary, making the bitter sweet, and her God had not let her drown. Nor had she let Him down. She endured as seeing Him who is invisible (Hebrews 11:27). Then one day, having been "poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrifice and service of others' faith" (Philippians 2:17), while sipping tea as she sat on her living room sofa, she heard her Lord say, "Come home, and we'll dine together at My table."

Someday, Beloved, He will call you home. How comfortable will you be when you see Him face to face, the God of Calvary? How well have you fought the good fight? How well have you kept the faith?

The December 10 entry from Teach Me How To Live by Kay Arthur

Survivor Part Two

From Teach Me How To Live
A second devotional journey with
Kay Arthur

The Psalmist asked: "What shall I render the Lord for all His benefits toward me?" (Psalms 116:12). What is the answer? Would it not be to live at the cross, letting the bitter be made sweet rather than making me bitter? Would it not be to drink the cup by taking up my cross even as Jesus took up His cross, saying, "Father...not my will, but Thine be done; if it pleases Thee, it pleases me"?

I read of such a woman, to me a heroine of the faith, whose story will probably never be in print except here and in The President's Letter, where I read it. The President's Letter is a publication sent out by Roberston McQuilkin, president of Columbia Bible College, a man Jack and I love and admire. In April, 1982, he told the story of Mae Louise Westervelt. When I read her story I remembered my experience at the beach. Mae Louise was a survivor. She knew the God of Calvary, and, because of this, the bitter was palatable.

The child of missionary parents, Mae Louise's dream was to provide a home for missionary children. Her husband shared that dream. "She was carrying her firstborn when her husband was crippled in body and spirit in a terrible automobile accident. Partially recovered, he carried on valiantly, but little Mae Louise was destined to carry the spiritual thrust of the family."

While recovering from the first wave, they were hit by a second - their newborn son was born helplessly handicapped. The third wave came years later when at the age of eleven their son drowned. But life went on - without bitterness. "For Thy sake we are being put to death all day long; we were considered as sheep to be slaughtered" (Romans 8:36). A fourth wave was to hit when their daughter, a few weeks away from graduation from the University of South Carolina, was killed in an automobile accident. "But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us" (Romans 8:37). Undaunted, Mae Louise did not give up; she kept on leading the missions program in her little Baptist church, teaching the teenage girls, and shepherding the children of the neighborhood. A fifth wave, a sixth would come, again she would say, "The Lord preserves the simple; I was brought low, and He saved me" (Psalms 116:6). You can say the same, if you will He saves you. He preserves you at Calvary. Don't give up. Fight the good fight of faith.

Tagged at Christmas

Alrighty, Alexis. I think the Rachel you mentioned in your blog was me and I was sent an email with these same 25 things from someone else and thought it might be fun so here goes...

1) Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? I like both. After reading two blogs talking about an eggnog latte I’ve really got a hankerin’ to try it.

2) Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? We do both. This year little Rachie is getting the coolest tricycle I’ve ever seen and there’s no way we can wrap it. Vance doesn’t like getting up early so there’s always an unwrapped toy or two for them to play with until we can drag ourselves out of bed.

3) Colored lights or white? I like both. Our tree actually has both. It actually looks like something you’d find in Las Vegas.

4) Do you hang mistletoe? No, but that would be cute for a couples Christmas party.

5) When do you get out your decorations? Every year I say I’m going to start in October, but we just got our decorations down from the attic yesterday.

6) Favorite holiday dish, excluding dessert? Mashed potatoes and gravy. Sometimes I shock myself with how much I can eat.

7) Favorite holiday memory as a child? My mom never ceased to amaze us. Even when we were on welfare and living in Section 8 housing, she always managed to give us a good Christmas. When my mom married my step dad we got a video camera and he always got out of bed before we did so he could film us getting up with our bed heads. So early, in fact, that it was still dark outside when we opened presents.

8) When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? My little brother told me. We were living in Alaska and Stephen brought me downstairs and opened a closet to show me all the unwrapped gifts waiting for Christmas Eve. I was so sad.

9) Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? We open only one gift on Christmas Eve. It gets the kiddos really pumped for Christmas morning. Oh, my goodness that sounds horrible.

10) How do you decorate your trees? We try to stuff every ornament, every string of garland (wooden ones), every kid craft, lights on our little tree – and this year I added sprigs that stick out of the tree.

11) Snow, love it or hate it? I used to hate the snow around here because we seemed to get so much of it and it make everything so muddy. I really like it now. It makes it feel more like Christmas. Our front yard is still covered with four or five inches with a remnant of a snowman from the last snow. We’re supposed to get some more tomorrow. Let it snow. Vance is outside chopping firewood right now to prepare.

12) Can you ice skate? I can, but I like roller skating better.

13) Do you remember your favorite gift? I got a Cabbage Patch Doll the year that so many parents were fighting over them in stores. I was so excited that I sliced my hand open on one of those copper staples that held the box together.

14) What is the most important thing about the holidays for you? “Holidays” yuck. I’m beginning to hate that word!!! Christmas this year has become very personal. I’ve taken to studying Advent, The Pronunciation and the Virgin Birth. Amazing, just amazing. I look at my little Tristan and cannot believe that the God of the Universe would choose to take that form. So strange and wonderful.

15) Favorite Holiday dessert? I love blueberry and blackberry pie. My mom used to make this and I’ve found that the Sam’s by our house must have my mom’s recipe. I can’t get enough.

16) Favorite Christmas tradition? Reading the Christmas story from Luke 2.

17) What tops your tree? Normally I make a big bow out of plaid ribbon, but this year we bought a wrought iron star.

18) What's better giving or receiving? I love to give gifts. I think I would like to receive more if someone really put A LOT of thought into what I would like. I feel like Lucy on the Charlie Brown Christmas movie… “I never get what I really want.” I’d rather have someone just write me a nice note - no, really!

19) Favorite Christmas song? I love that version of “I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas” that’s on the movie “Home Alone” Do, do, do do – do – do – do di do.

20) Candy Canes, yummy or yucky? I’m sort of in between yummy and yucky. – Yumcky.

21) What do you want for Christmas? I’m with Alexis. I think I want another baby. I’d also love to see my children really happy and not get a terrible case of the spoiled rotten brat syndrome that seems to happen after receiving too many presents.

22) Do you attend an annual Christmas Party? We have an annual worship team Christmas party. I wish we could do one for our friends and family.

23) Do you dress up for Christmas eve? Our church always has a Christmas Eve candle light service. Yes, I’ve got the cutest dresses for my girls and my boys will look so handsome in their sweaters.

24) Do you own a Santa Hat? Nope. I’ve never been that type.

25) Who do you normally spend Christmas with? That’s a secret.

Survivor

I have a devotional series I'd like to share over the next couple of days. Here's the first entry written by Kay Arther from her book Teach Me How To Live.

Have you ever ridden the waves on some ocean beach? I'm not much of a swimmer so I never go out beyond where my feet can touch solid ground. Plus, I can't stand to get water up my nose. It makes me choke, cough and sputter like a whale with hiccups! Yet I enjoy the waves if I can stay in control of the situation. Watching for that wave to come along, catching it at its crest and allowing it to propel toward the shore is grand fun.

But have you ever been picked up by a wave, pitched head first into the surf, and held there by the relentless force of the water? I have, and I can tell you I was terrified. I tried desperately to regain my footing, and my throat burned from all the salt water I was swallowing. All dignity gone, crawling on all fours, I clawed the sand frantically trying to get up only to feel the undertow dragging me farther from the safety of the shore. Fighting with all the energy of one who has been terrorized, I finally made it to my feet. Choking violently I stumbled toward shore only to be knocked down again as I was hit by a second wave and dragged back toward death. Engulfed in the water, I couldn't even cry for help but I pleaded inwardly, O God, don't let me drown. Head over heels I turned until I hit bottom. Finally getting to my feet, weak, belching, and choking, I was caught for the third time and taken under. With all that was in me I fought the waters and cried to God. I didn't give up. I didn't want to surrender to the waters. I wanted to live.

Those who have never been so overwhelmed or caught so helplessly in such and undertow could never understand my panic and my desperate effort to survive. They would only laugh, kid or condescendingly say they were sorry. But those who have been where I was would know how I felt. They could relate. They would understand my struggle to survive and they could shake their heads and say with empathy, "I know the feeling. You survived because you were determined you weren't going to give up." And it is true; the survivors are those who "fight the good fight," those who persevere. If you do not persevere, you have surrendered!

A life lived for Jesus, a life lived at the cross, a life that follows Him fully will always be a life that is contested on every hand in one way or another. Waves and undertows may knock the breath out of you, pulling you under, leaving you gasping and choking. Men may not hear your cries, but God will - "O God, don't let me drown."

"The cords of death encompassed me, and the terrors of Sheol came upon me; I found distress and sorrow. Then I called upon the name of the Lord: "O Lord, I beseech Thee, save my life!" Psalms 116:3, 4

Terry Family Christmas Newsletter

Some of you may receive this letter, but I thought I'd post it on our blog, too.

This year I have been studying Advent and have been impressed at just how special this time of year really is. I have been struck with wonder and awe of our Amazing God. I’m thankful for this blessing since Christmas can get all discombobbled and too familiar.

Advent is a time of expectant waiting. Waiting is not a popular idea, but Advent is different. It literally means “coming” and is not only a reminder of His first coming, but a time of expectation for His second. I imagine Mary and Joseph, Elizabeth and Zechariah, Anna, Simeon, the three “Wise Men” and the shepherd all waiting. Waiting on the promises and prophecies they knew so well. Waiting as we are today. They saw that promise fulfilled with their own eyes. We may have that same privilege. In the meantime, I will be waiting expectantly. As Elizabeth said to Mary “Blessed is she who believed that the promise made her by the Lord would be fulfilled.” Luke 1:45

So, here’s a little about the family…

Vance is working and running Absolute Best Painting, Inc. for the 12th year. We are extremely blessed to continue to have work in these turbulent economic times. He is providing for our many children. On that note…we believe that God provides for each child so if we have more we know He will provide for each additional one J.

Vance also leads a men’s Bible study at 6am on Thursday mornings. This is a real God thing because I know He has called Vance to minister and disciple and I’m so glad he is able to continue in this gifting even though He does not have a position at a church. God really does work in GREAT and mysterious ways.

I (Rachel) delivered my eighth child this year in August and, as many of you know, he was almost 11 pounds. I can’t kiss him enough. There are not enough hours in a day (or night for that matter) to hold him.

I continue to work as choir and vocal director at Mountain Springs Church which has grown to over 3000 members. God has been faithful to see this dream and desire realized. I love being able to minister through music.

I still sell Mary Kay. I still teach group fitness (mostly indoor cycling and hip hop). I still home school. I still run the office part of Vance’s business. And…this year I started blogging. There probably is something very wrong with me J. BTW – you can get more updates on the family at www.homemadesalsa.blogspot.com.

Glen just turned 11. I can already see some manly traits starting to show through. He takes his responsibility as being the oldest seriously. Yet, he still has that little boy wonder and excitement about him. He has this excited dance that he has done since he was small. He tries to hide it a little now, but Vance and I both get a great kick out of watching him do it.

Glen’s interests are riding his new bike, creating stories (he wants to write a book about dragons), playing with his brothers and neighbor friends and anything having to do with computer games. It doesn’t matter which game system or computer.

Ryan is 9 and is our challenge child. He’s so close to Glen in age, but is really nothing like him. He has a sharp, quick tongue. He can be brilliant one minute and not so the next. He loves to talk; he loves to think. He does both at the same time so sometimes it’s hard to understand what he’s saying. I think one day he will be a great orator.

Ryan’s interests are creating things outdoors like forts and such. He also likes making things out of paper. He makes a paper crown for each person in the family on their birthday. He loves science experiments and art. There are some days he will draw all day long.

Will recently turned 6. He is the most gentle and loving child we have. I should clarify that he’s not gentle physically but emotionally. He has such a tender heart, but he can tackle his daddy to the ground. He loves to spend time with his dad. He goes to work with Vance at least twice a week. They drive around town to job sites and paint stores and home improvement warehouses.

Will loves to run. Whenever Glen and Ryan ride their bikes to the park, up and down hills for over a half a mile, Will runs along side them. Then he still has energy to play at the park, run back home and drive me crazy.

Rachie is 4 and is our little princess and she’ll tell you so. We never encouraged the princess thing, but when she started taking the boys’ toys and odd items around the house to pretend she had tea and dresses and babies (Buzz Light-year wrapped in blankets) we thought we’d indulge her.

Rachie’s favorite color is pink. I went shopping for Glen’s birthday bike with her and she picked out a beautiful, Pepto-Bismol pink tricycle and rode it around the store the entire time we were there. She cried when we left. Guess what she’s getting for Christmas?

Kael is 2 and has decided he’s a lion. I can’t count how many times he’s watched The Lion King. I’ve tried unplugging the TV and VCR, but he’s figured out how to plug them back in, get his video tape, put it in the player, press play and turn the volume all the way up (usually at 6:30 in the morning). For the last two weeks he’s been walking around the house roaring.

Morgan is 2 and is the ruler of the roost. She tells everyone what to do and very clearly. She has the cutest little tip-toe run I’ve ever seen. She’s so soft and squishy; the poor girl has to fight to get away from me. She’s so easy to hug and kiss. Actually, she indulges me most of the time. The thing about Morgan is she can make an unbelievable mess out of any food or meal. It’s always a chore to get her and her place cleaned up after meal time.

Tristan is 3 months and will be exactly 4 months on Christmas Day. Oh my boy!!! I cannot put into words how much joy this child brings me. He searches the room for me with his eyes and when he gets a lock he smiles. There are some nights that I wish he would wake up just so I could hold him. He’s so good. I take him everywhere with me and he rarely fusses. He’s just happy to be with mommy. He gets a thousand kisses a day from his 8 other family members.

Pearl Harbor Day

Today is Pearl Harbor Day. All that seems important to everyone in the media is football. All that was on TV today, all that was on the front page of my ISP was football. It's so sad how easily people forget the lives that were sacrificed so we can live in a country where we feel sorry for ourselves if we don't have 50 presents under the Christmas tree.

Alright, I'll concede that I'm sounding cynical and bitter so I'll just say "Thank you" to those who serve. Thank you for sacrificing your families, your finances, your education, your lives so that The United States of America remains free.

Have you ever noticed when tools are new or in good condition your job is made easier? I'm only posting this to remind myself. When I use a new cleaning sponge, it's easier to clean the kitchen. When I have a really sharp knife, I cut through tomotoes and potatoes in half the time.

Nuts don't belong in milk chocolate.

That's it.

Thanksgiving

It's December. All my plans for being able to really celebrate this time of year and make it truly meaningful have gone out the window. The house is a disaster again, my home schooling schedule and being purposeful to spend quality time with my kids, Christmas cards, decorating, everything is out of control. I'm back at that place once again where I don't even know where to start. And...I'm tired.

But...there's one thing I know...I've got so much to be thankful for. I will sing praises to God and bless His name. For He is good and his mercies endure!

Thanksgiving was good this year. We decided to stay home. One of Vance's very good friends came to visit us during this time. I was moody and the house and kids were a bit of chaos so, hopefully, he enjoyed himself.

I cooked mashed potatoes, sweet potato pie, green bean casserole, stuffing, homemade apple pie, homemade chips and salsa, honey ham and Vance and Jim deep-fried the turkey. I cooked for four hours and didn't take any pictures. What a bummer. We've been feasting on all the left-overs since the big day. Vance made a turkey tortilla soup. It's been nice not to have to cook several meals so, I guess the four hours was worth it.

We also celebrated Glen's birthday. He was born on Thanksgiving Day in 1997 and it's taken 11 years for his birthday to fall on Thanksgiving Day again. He asked for a new bike. The pictures are of his face when he saw the gift and how happy he was to receive it.

We also got our first real snow that very weekend. We got about two feet out here. The kids built a mighty fine snowman.

Christmas Treasures of the Heart

Reach Out to Those Who Need Fellowship

Invite a newcomer, an elderly couple or person, or a friend who will be alone this Christmas to attend your church's Christmas Eve service. Ask ahead of time and include some fellowship time together and snacks shared around the tree before you go.

I would take this a step further and invite them over with your family for your Christmas meal. Vance and I have done this with people from church who do not have family in town. Relationships are such an important part of our lives and I can think of few better things to show the love of Christ.

Christmas Giving

There are several items in my home that I use quite a bit that either I enjoy or make my life easier. I thought it would be fun to put a list of these items out there and maybe have others comment with items they enjoy and use often.


There are so many purchases that I've either given or received that were not useful or enjoyable. I think this list will be very helpful in Christmas shopping.


Kitchen:

1. Knife - last year my DH bought me a kitchen knife to rival Rachael Ray's. He assures me that you do not have to pay over $200. However, it's probably wise to invest in a knife sharpening kit. Since I use mine everyday, several times a day, it requires sharpening once every other month.
2. Chopper - I've bought these from Pampered Chef and Tupperware. I've been through three of them. The one I have now is from Pampered Chef and has lasted quite some time. I use it for onions and pickles almost daily.
3. Cutting board - It would be nice to have two. One nice butcher's block and one plastic for raw chicken.


I know it's been said that wives do not like receiving kitchen stuff for gifts. I disagree. If I can get a gift that makes my life easier then that is a truly treasured gift.



Bedroom:
1. Blanket: Know what size bed your gift recipient has and buy a nice velour blanket. The one we have has lasted over 10 years, but I'll be getting a new one this year.
2. Pillows: No one ever thinks of getting pillows for people. We go through pillows so fast around here and protectors don't seem to help much. A down pillow would be extra special.

Kids:

1. No toys: Every year the kids get a ton of toys. They play with them for awhile, but get bored of them quickly. I heard a mom once said she would take the toys they got bored with, clean them, store them, then bring them out as gifts a few months later. I may try this someday. I love stuff from Mardels. A handwriting book for them to practice. Science kits. Art supplies. My kids love this stuff and it helps them grow and doesn't require batteries.

Miscellaneous:
1. Candles: I know there are some people out there that don't like candles, but I love them! I sometimes have 10 candles going at once. I love the fragrance (vanilla, pumpkin, cinnamon) and the heat they put off. They can be very expensive (my favorites are the Yankee Candle jars) so it's nice to get them as gifts.
2. I've always love those little recipes in a jar where are the ingredients are there and all you have to do is throw it together. I've received hot chocolate with marshmallows and cookies, etc. That just made me think of something. I've always loved getting meals every time I have a child; that would be a terrific Christmas gift. Maybe I'm the only one who would enjoy that.

Well, that's about all I can think of, I look forward to seeing other suggestions.

Christmas Treasures of the Heart

Here are two special entries:

1. A friend sent Clement Moore's "A Visit From St. Nicholas" to a local newpaper. It was extremely well received, but Dr. Moore waited 16 years to admit to being the author of what became the beloved poem "The Night Before Christmas." As a professor of theology and literature, he was afraid the poem would damage his academic standing.

2. Santa is a dramatic emblem of a world crying out for a larger-than-life daddy who will love his kids even when they are not perfect and give them gifts to fulfill their longings. - Jack Hayford

Stepping Heavenward

I've just finished a book called "Stepping Heavenward" by E. Prentiss. It was written in the 19th century and tells the story of a woman who, through many trials, grows closer to her Savior and more like Him in the process. It seems to be that stories or writings of those who lived over 100 and even 200 years ago fascinate me. But, this book has effected me greatly. It makes me want to serve God in all I do even the menial tasks, especially those. It has me asking myself how can serve others before myself? How do I teach myself (or let Him teach me) to want less instead of more?

It reminds me how I used to view those who home schooled their children. I remember thinking that I would never home school my children because they would turn out weird. Now I say, "Praise God for that!" I want to be the complete opposite of this world and therefore want as much for my children. After all, we are only pilgrims and really do not belong here.

As the Advent season approaches I want to remind myself and my family why we celebrate. It is to be ever watchful for His returning. To live for Him so that He finds us prepared; our candles lit. I am determined to make this season one of reflection on the One who created all things. To live out the charity that speaks of hoping in everything and everyone; that endures trials and temptations. If we truly love our neighbor we will always believe in him, always expect the best of him, and always stand your ground in defending him. This is what the Bible describes as true love. How far I am from it.

Christmas Treasures of the Heart

Every night before be in December, read a Christmas story to your child.

Life holds no sweeter thing that this:

To teach a little child the tale most loved on earth

And watch the wonder deepen in his eyes

There while you tell him of the Christ Child's birth;

Of gentle drowsy beast and fragrant hay

On which that starlit night in Bethlehem

God's tiny Son and His young mother lay...

- Adelaide Love

It's a Wonderful Life

You know that scene in "It's a Wonderful Life" where Jimmy Stewart's kids are going crazy, running around, asking him questions, and his daughter is playing a Christmas tune on the piano? Then he asks his wife, "Why did we have so many kids?" Our house was a bit like that this evening. Except that we have almost twice the kids. Will, Rachie and the twins were running around, as usual. Ryan was playing "Jingle Bells" on the piano and Glen was playing "Silent Night" on the harmonica. Tristan was grumpy and fussing quite a bit. It was so loud - all of it was so loud. The twins alone have no volume control whatsoever.


Today I took my car in to get serviced. On the drive there I saw a helicopter land at the hospital and some motor cross guys almost jumped into the road from their track. Well, not quite, but they scared me. I need brakes; pads and rotors, alignment, a new brake light (which I got pulled over for Saturday night) and an oil change. Not exactly the Christmas present I wanted to give myself, but there ya go...


Here are some pictures from Vance's buck. He cooked the liver with onions this evening. The only one who ate it besides him was Will - what a good boy.


























Christmas Treasures of the Heart


How to say "Merry Christmas" in 10 different languages.


French: Joyeau Noel
Spanish: Felix Navidad
Danish: Glaedelig Jul
Finish: Houska Joulua
Welsh: Nadolig Llawen
Swedish: God Jul
Italian: Buon Natale
Russian: S Rozhdestvom Kristovym
German: Froehliche Weihnachten
Japanese: Meri Kurisumasu

Success!!!

Vance got up around 4am this morning to go down to the farm and hunt for deer. He was hunting with a bow. At 9:30am this morning he called and said he had shot a deer. A mule deer. I'm so excited. It's been hard living without meat. Vance's parents gave us a few pounds about a month or so ago. Our neighbors gave us several pounds after Vance's big hunting trip where he didn't harvest anything but our neighbor did and it was his first hunt.

So, we have meat! Here comes venison chili, spaghetti, meat loaf, tacos, shredded BBQ, crockpot roast, etc. Not to mention a delicious Thanksgiving venison roast. We give thanks to God for this blessing!

I'll send pictures soon.

Weekend Update

Wow! What a weekend. I was on worship again this weekend. I believe our church is really growing again. Saturday night's service was overflowing and we had people sitting out in the lobby. The first service Sunday morning was packed as well. I think it was possibly 2700 to 3000 people this weekend. It was definitely more than that if you count all the children and closed classes.

I believe people are realizing that there is only one place to be in these tumultuous times; in the presence of the One who has overcome it all.

I enjoy being a part of this ministry, but I was exhausted yesterday. I felt like I could barely stand. I really need to start working out more and build up my stamina.

CHRISTMAS TREASURES OF THE HEART

Give the gift of kind words today!

Encouraging words can change someones whole perspective and work a miracle:

Loving words will cost but little,

Journeying up the hill of life;

But they make the weak and weary

Stronger, braver, for the strife.

do you count them only trifles?

What to earth are sun and rain?

Never was a kind word wasted;

Never was one said in vain.

- Anonymous

This reminds me of a time when I was complaining to someone how tired I was because I was waking up at least every two hours with the twins to nurse. They seemed to play tag team. One would wake up and I would nurse and get him/her back to sleep then the other would wake. The person I was complaining to said that she would love to wake in the middle of the night because she missed her child and longed to hold him. Just that simple statement changed my whole perspective.

This weekend that same woman was watching Tristan in the nursery at church. She mentioned this thought again and I told her I remembered when she shared that with me before and how much it had effected me. She was surprised and thanked me for sharing that with her. She was so glad that God had used her in such a simple, but powerful way.

You never know how people are effected when you say something in love and kindness.

I've rec'd three Pampered Chef invitations this week. I'm sorry ladies, but the budget for items for the kitchen is empty. As many of you know, I've been selling Mary Kay for 6 years. Business has been slow these last couple of months. I know quite a few ladies who have started similar home businesses because times are tight. This is a difficult time to start such a business and I hope these women will be wise about how much they invest and are realistic about their goals. In times like these it will take some time to build a customer base and turn a profit. There's my two cents.

I'm learning a lot these days about patience and grace. I've been emotionally distraught these last two weeks. I'm having to squeeze out every inkling of trust in God that I can. I have to say my verses over and over...He is for me, he is for me. And I'm really not saying it for myself. I think I've taken up an offense for a brother. I guess when you see a brother mistreated it's easy to think that that same mistreatment could happen to you.

I have some dear friends with whom I'm writing and recording songs. One we're working on is called "Vindicate Me". I love just saying those words. When there's anger over unfairness or being overlooked I want to cry out "Vindicate me, my God!" I'm working through issues of frustration - frustrated that men in leadership in the church do not value women in leadership as they should. I believe they use the Word to use women. Work your butts off but, we'll give you no real value or responsibility or say.

I'm ranting a bit, butt where is there a better place to do it? That's what blogs are for, right?

Here's a lighter side...

CHRISTMAS TREASURES OF THE HEART

One Starry Night

Five hundred years ago Martin Luther, German leader of the Protestant Reformation, began the custom of decorating Christmas trees.

While walking through the woods one beautiful starry night near Christmas Eve, Luther gazed at a large evergreen tree illuminated by the starlight. He was struck by the incredible sight, which reminded him of the night the angels appeared to the shepherds in Bethlehem, announcing the birth of the Christ Child.

He cut down a small pine tree and brought it home. There Luther decorated the tree with lighted candles, which he told his wife and children represented Jesus Christ, the Light of the World. From that small beginning, the popular custom of decorating trees spread through out Europe and later into America. Early trees were also decorated with small candies and cookies, paper and glass ornaments.

Carefully picked and trimmed with tiny lights - festooned with homemade ornaments and those from friends and travels - our family Christmas tree is more than just decoration it's full of memories and shines forth as a symbol of God's love for us.

Christmas Treasures of the Heart

There are two ways to live your life.

One is as though nothing is a miracle.

the other is as though everything is a miracle.

-Albert Einstein

Grand Prix

Last weekend was a big event for the boys. Grandpa helped make pine derby cars for the boys. Really, he did most of the work. The boys get into the AWANA Grand Prix event. They even made their own Grand Prix here at home. I'll have to get pictures of that. Our church AWANA group really does this right. They have a digital track that records all the race times and then your name and speed are recorded and immediately put up on the screen as soon as the race is over.

They have an announcer and trophies and tons of excitement. There are three categories for trophies: one is for speed (of course), another for car style and another for costume (or, dressing like your car). This year Glen wanted to go for style and speed. Ryan went for costume and design. Will just wanted to win something. However, none of the boys won trophies. Not even second or third. A few times Ryan's car came in second, but his time didn't win overall.

Glen took this disappointment well, but Ryan and Will ended up crying for most of the morning and afternoon. I told them that when they do eventually win - and it may be few years - that the victory will be so much sweeter. Every year there's a family (who has 8 children) that always wins. There dad is also a cub scout leader and he's done so many of these races that he really has it down to a science. I guess to win for speed your car needs to look like a little thin cheese wedge.

We're new at this so I know eventually we'll get the hang of it. By the time Tristan is ready to race we'll be pros.

Christmas Treasures of the Heart

Christmas Straw

Encourage kindness and unselfishness in the family by starting the tradition of "Christmas Straw": First collect some straw and place it in a basket by the side of an empty little cradle or basket representing a manger. On the day you begin, draw names. Then during the days ahead, each person does a thoughtful deed each day without their recipient knowing it (like making his bed for him while he's in the shower or polishing her shoes while she's at work).

These little acts of kindness have nothing to do with money or "store-bought" gifts. Instead, they are ways of meeting the needs of others. They may include leaving a note of encouragement or making a treat.

Each time someone does a thoughtful deed, he gets to place a bit of straw in the manger. By Christmas Eve, Baby Jesus (a doll wrapped in a "swaddling blanket" or nativity character) has a cradle full of straw on which to lie.

The best Christmas gift of all is the presence of a happy family all wrapped up with one another...in love.

We're definitely going to do this one. I think I'll go to Michael's today and get a bit of straw and a little wooden cradle. This reminded me of our Terry Family Mission Statement. The last thing (and most important) on the list says "Charity begins at home and is the key to household peace." I want our home to be filled with love and good deeds this Christmas. (Hebrews 10:24)

The Russian President's Bathtub

This morning, while in the bathroom, Rachie came in and started up a conversation. I guess it was just the first thing that popped into her creative mind. She said, "Mom, I love this bathtub. Is this our bathtub?" Now, I've had a long weekend. No matter how hard I try I seem to pile events on the same day or the same weekend. So, I'm tired. My answer to her question..."No, it belongs to the president of Russia."

I'm not usually a sarcastic person. In fact, I get on Vance quite a bit because he's so sarcastic. But, this weekend was physically and emotionally taxing. Poor Rachie - she tried to answer back, but she couldn't say the word Russia or president.

Here's a good one from Christmas Treasures of the Heart:

A Joyful Single Christmas

I have discovered that being alone on Christmas Day does not have to be lonely. There are so many good people who are willing to share the day with others who are alone, and I usually always have an invitation to go somewhere. As a guest, though, I also realize that families enjoy being alone for at least part of the morning to open their presents, so I usually decline going until noon; hence, I have the morning to myself and they have their "family time" together.

So, I have devised a great diversion that has never failed to give me much joy and beauty on Christmas morning even though I am alone. After a special breakfast, devotions, and reading my Bible, I spend the rest of the time reading my Christmas cards, which I have saved for the entire month just for Christmas morning. I savor every note and the meaning on the cards themselves. Sometimes it takes me two hours or more to read all the cards, and I certainly can't be lonely with so many well wishes. There just is no sense worrying about what I don't have, when I really have so much! By that time, I am hurrying to get ready to go out for the day, in a cheerful mood and ready to entertain and be entertained on this blessed holiday.

- Beverly Rhoades

What is great about this entry is that recently I've had several conversations with older single women. They struggle with their singleness, though. The conversations usually end in me saying that there are so many things you can do with your singleness. Having seven children I sometimes wish I could do more for the body of Christ or for my community, etc. For instance, I would love to serve meals at the mission at Thanksgiving or Christmas. I would love to travel to Africa and help at New Hope Uganda. Or, to Haiti where there are orphanages who need help. There's so much someone who is single can devote to the Kingdom.

Another thought this entry brought up was the fact that I get so many Christmas cards that are never written in. Some of them are just signed by the family and then others don't even offer that much. There's just a printed family name. I dislike these kinds of Christmas cards very much! When I send cards I think of the person(s) I'm sending them to and there's always something that comes to mind that I would like to share. After all, Christmas is a time where we remember the Christ child. He left the most beautiful place - as a KING - to come down to a toilet and be a servant - for a people so very undeserving. The least we can do is offer a few words of love or encouragement in a Christmas card we spend at least $2 to send (including cost of card, postage, etc.)

Why not make a list today of those you would really like to bless this year and write two or three cards a day until the last day of this month. Those special people will be delighted to get such a thoughtful gift the very first week of December.

As I'm typing now with one hand (nursing) it has begun to snow and the twins are watching Pinocchio and Jiminy Cricket is singing "When You Wish Upon A Star". There's a roaring fire in the black stove downstairs and my teapot is whistling ready for honey and peppermint herbal tea. To say that I might be getting in the Christmas Spirit may be an understatement.

Jehovah Jireh

Remember yesterday I was down and worrying? I had mentioned in my blog that I was repeated verses over and over. Well, that spirit of fear broke around lunchtime yesterday and was replaced with a spirit of joy! I rarely receive such a quick and such a powerful answer to prayer! God is our Jehovah Jireh - our provider and his strength is sufficient. I'm on worship this weekend; a task I was unsure I could do. God has provided exactly what I needed so that I will be able to minister to the body of Christ. Praise Him!!!

Now for Christmas Treasures of the Heart.

Christmas Wreath

Symbolizing eternal hope,
the wreath goes 'round and 'round,
And where it starts or ends cannot be found.
Woven of things that grow - for life,
and hung for holiday delight
the wreath must be left in place
From Advent through Twelfth Night.

-Anonymous

Whom Shall I fear?

Well, we lost. I have to admit I was up most of the night last night worrying. I had to remember every verse I could in the Bible that said that "if God is for us, who can be against us?" "Do not worry about tomorrow," "whom shall I fear", "He will never leave us nor forsake us." The problem is - it's one thing to be disenchanted with your country, it's another to be disenchanted with your church and ours in on the verge of really letting many people down. Vance and I have been awake praying for the last three nights. We're not getting any sleep because we are worried and crying out to God. I know He is in control, but it's at times like these when the Body of Christ needs to pull together, not be torn apart. "In this world we will have trouble, but take heart, He has overcome the world." There's so much more in my head, but it's good to get it out.

Anyway...we have exactly 50 days until Christmas. I want to make the most of this time and make it special for me and my family. I have a book called "Christmas Treasures of the Heart" - A collection of Heartwarming Stories and Traditions and I thought I would share one of these stories and traditions each day until Christmas.

Here's the first...

HOLIDAY FIESTA

Brown ground beef and drain. Arrange in colorful bowls: chopped tomatoes, chopped black olives, onions, picante sauce, guacamole, pinto and kidney beans. In a large bowl put lots of chopped lettuce, and fill a sombrero with tortilla chips. Provide warm flour and corn tortillas, rice and refried beams. Let each person make his own fiesta salad and burritos.

Hang a pinata, play Spanish music, and read a Christmas story from Mexico to enjoy a "South of the Border" evening. Serve pralines for dessert and enjoy!


What a great way to reuse the Halloween candy we still have laying around - by putting it into a pinata. We even have a VBS fiesta CD. I think our family will have a lot of fun with this one. We'll try it this weekend.

It would be fun to hear from anyone else who does this, too.

VOTE

Duty and Privilege
Micca Monda Campbell

"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord"
Psalm 33:12 (NIV)

Devotion:
Tomorrow, November 4th, millions of Americans will have the opportunity to elect new leaders of government. If you live in the United States, I encourage you to be among them and exercise your right to vote. I encourage you to vote for both your national and your local leaders.

While the Bible does not command us to vote, it does command us to be good citizens wherever we live. One way we can be a good citizen, honor God, and assist in guiding our nation is by voting.

As a woman, I'm honored to take part in determining the direction of our nation. Before the 1900's, women in America were not allowed the privilege to vote, and in some countries they still cannot. I look at voting for our leaders not only as my citizen's duty, but also as a privilege millions of people in the world do not have.

I take my right to vote so seriously that in 1992, while nine months pregnant and restricted to bed rest, I had my mother drive me forty-five minutes to vote in the presidential election. I allowed nothing to stand in my way of exercising my right to vote. Eight days later, I gave birth to a healthy little girl - to whom I hope to pass on my political passion for voting.

There's no doubt about it, voting is both a duty and a privilege. However, I realize that some people won't take the time and trouble to vote because they don't believe their ballot will make much of a difference. That's not true. Statistics show that many elections have come down to only a handful of votes.

What would happen if most people felt that their vote didn't really matter and didn't bother to vote? It would mean that our country's future would be decided by only a few of its citizens-- who perhaps don't hold the same convictions as yours.
Deciding whom to vote for can seem a daunting task. But voting is easier once you and I pray about it, and seek out good information about the candidates and the issues they address. The fact that there is moral haziness in politics these days indicates our need to rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance when examining the issues as well as the candidates.

November 4th is a day of opportunity for America. It's a day to stand up for what we believe in. It's a day to voice those beliefs and be heard. It's a day to take the time to vote as we honor our Christian heritage, and bring glory to God. For "blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord!"

Dear Lord, in this upcoming election, I pray that You will move in the hearts of Your people in this nation to vote. I pray You will work in and through our leaders to guide and bless this nation -- may it be so in all nations, Lord! Guide us by your Spirit, in Jesus' Name, Amen.

Halloween '08

It seems every time I sit down to write this blog I want to let out a big sigh. Hence, the title of my last post.

Tonight was Halloween and we went everywhere. There's a retreat center down the street that does a mild haunted house. Creepy yet the little ones could stand it...they also have a route around all there cabins that are rented out by local businesses and they hand out candy. They also have a game room where they can win candy. We walked around (without Vance) for almost an hour.

Then, we went up to Vance's sister's neighborhood and dropped of Tristan at their house. I thought he would sleep, but it turns out she ended up having to hold him for 45 minutes while we were out trick or treating. Sorry, Valerie :).

Each of these places was very tiring because the twins walked so extremely slow. Both of their costumes hindered their movement. But, they were so cute. Just about everyone stopped to say so and some took pictures.

Our next door neighbors and dear friends invited us over for dinner. We arrived over an hour late. The dinner was excellent and the kids had a blast playing with their kids.

Finally, we got home and everyone was in bed at 10pm. I hope this means I get to sleep in tomorrow morning, but I doubt it. That's ok - I'm still young :).

Enjoy the pictures.

They all gathered round to see me carve a pumpkin in less than 15 minutes. A new record. We copied uncle Stephen's pumpkin. He sent us pictures from Germany.

Glen was a cowboy, Ryan -Zorro, Will - a fire fighter, Rachie and Morgan were both princesses and Kael was a puppy dog. All of these costumes were hand-me-downs. I didn't spend a penny this Halloween. Woo hoo!

This is Vance trying to keep Morgan out of a strange person's house.

**sigh**

So...I've had a few people ask me, "What's going on? Are you alright?" It's been two weeks since I've posted anything. It's been busy, busy, busy. I almost can't tell you why. I look back on the last two weeks and try to remember what I've done and I can barely think.

To start, Vance, Glen and Ryan were away on a hunting trip. That was hard. Thank you, Mom for helping. I think I would have gone crazy without you. I don't think I'll approve my three biggest helps leaving all at once again anytime in the near future. I think that was a run-on sentence :).

They got back on Tuesday evening. Wednesday we had a couple of dramas one having to do with missing men from the hunting trip and the other having to do with an email Vance sent out to put someone in their place. No one died in either event. That night I had choir practice, which I prepared all day for and very few showed up.

Thursday I prepared all day - cleaning and cooking because we were expecting friends who we've been working through some life issues. They didn't make it.

Friday I prepared all day for a dance class that I was substituting for that evening. Saturday and Sunday I was on worship. I got to church at 2:30 on Saturday and basically got home at 2:30 on Sunday. Then I got everyone ready for AWANA at 3pm. Pick up everyone at 5pm then had a little birthday party for Rachie with Mom and Pops. Trying to fit nursing an infant on this day was tricky.

I thought Monday would start a much easier week. Since I didn't have anything "planned" I thought I would start a few projects at home. The boys had off the previous week because of the hunting trip and all the neighbor kids on fall break. So, I wanted to make sure they got a lot of school work done this week. We did pretty well. I also had about 10 loads of laundry waiting.

Vance worked late every night. I had a meeting at Chick-fil-A on Tuesday morning which gave me an ulcer. Trying to talk to someone while watching 9 kids between us didn't go too well. I called in sick on Wednesday :). Thursday I prepared the house and the meal again. This time almost all of them made it. Friday was my first time out to eat with couples - date night - in 8 weeks. This was actually fun.

8am Saturday morning I taught a cycling class. My first since having Tristan. I was dying through the whole class. I ran a bunch of errands immediately after the class. Sam's was the first stop, then Goodwill to drop off stuff, the bank, the post office, Albertson's for stuff you can't get at Sam's then home. I took a two hour nap. When I woke up everyone, but the twins and Tristan were gone. I took some Tylenol and went to work on finishing my projects.

Today is Sunday again and I finished several of my house projects. We had another meeting cancellation so that will free up time to watch the World Series. Today was dress up like a Noah's Ark character at AWANA so that took some preparation. Along with helping Glen make up a board game and practicing verses with Will, Rachie and Ryan. Vance gave me four estimates and four invoices to type up...

...and that brings you up-to-date.

Now, I'm sitting here typing this blog. The twins are napping and Tristan is telling me he's hungry.

Here are some pictures. Enjoy.

Princess Sisters

I'm Back!

I'm so glad to be back! So grateful to my new dear friends Darryl and Sherri. If it weren't for their generosity and their time and Darryl's expertise I would have had an heart attack and in the market for a new computer. I would have lost almost 5years worth of precious pictures.

You know how people say in the back of their minds "That will never happen to me"? Usually, this refers to car accidents or crime, but I think I had this mentality with my computer. So many people talk about getting viruses and their hard drives being destroyed. I thought I was so smart and so careful. Let this be a warning to all. Get good virus protection - I've been told the mainstream ones like McAfee and Norton, etc. are NOT good enough. Then, back up your computer. Put your pictures on disc and back up your hard drive to something external then store it off site. You can bet this is what I'm doing now.

On another note...I've started a new blog. It's called http://www.bepatientwitheachother.blogspot.com/.

Quite a mouthful, no? I've noticed A LOT lately that people are just rude to each other. I could never be rude, even if I tried. Especially to a stranger. I suppose I'm rude to my husband sometimes *smirk*. So, every time I notice someone being rude I thought I would blog about it and offer up a more courteous solution. Maybe it could become a mantra people could have in the back of their head "be patient with each other". I've been saying it to myself every time someone cuts me off while driving. What do you think?

A kink in the works

Well, it's been several days and I haven't been able to blog because I wiped out my computer. My Internet was running weird and I ran a program that was supposed to fix it, but when I pushed the "cancel" button the whole computer went down. I have a friend who said it was probably a virus. He said he's 99% sure he can fix it. I am eternally grateful that he's even willing to look at it.

So, I've been working off my laptop and off the computer at Mom and Pop's house (which is the one I'm on now). You may not hear from me for awhile. For some reason, blogger will not let me post from my laptop.

It's funny, I love the computer and the Internet, but I know just enough to be extremely dangerous and costly. I should be banned until I take some classes.

Unusual Terry Terminology

I think every family has their own words for things. Such as, binky, potty, etc. But, the Terry family has a few unusual ones. We've made our children into human remote controls so we've taught them how to push the play button of the DVD player. Somehow button got shortened to "butt". So, now when we ask anyone to push play we say "Will, go push the butt."

When the twins want a fork or a spoon to eat with they say over and over "wee-o, wee-o, wee-o." I have no idea where that one came from.

I had a few others, but I've forgotten them. Oh well, I'll just create a label for "unusual terry terminology" and post back whenever they come up :).

Have a GREAT day. test

Piles of Balls

http://www.coolmath-games.com/0-pilesofballs/index.html

I was searching the internet for math games that would help the boys have fun with what we're learning in math and I found this site CoolMath.com. They absolutely love it. It has multiplication, division, geometry, etc.

Unfortunately, I've gotten addicted to a game called Piles of Balls. I think it's good for my slight OCD. You get to put all these different colored balls in the right place. Vance thinks I'm absolutely crazy. But, what else am I going to do when I'm just sitting down and nursing. Check it out, but don't stay longer than 15 minutes. I warn you.

BTW - I've made it to level 10 :)

Firsts

Can I just say, "I'm tired." I've been feeling better than I can remember in a long time, but today I'm very tired.

This weekend has been filled with "firsts". Friday was my first work out since Tristan. Last night we took the entire family out dinner for the first time. The look on the hostess' face when I said "Two adults and seven children" was priceless. Chili's isn't really large family friendly. And, today was our first time back to church since Tristan was born. It takes 15 minutes to get everyone in their perspective classes.

After all of that we had AWANA and Sam's and I'm beat. Now, we're starting another week and Vance will be preparing for another hunting trip. Lord, I'm asking for an extra measure of strength.

There's lots to do this week. My brother Jonathon has a birthday and I'd like to get him something and actually mail it this year. I've got a bridal shower on Thursday and a couple of church meetings on Wednesday.

I had to remind myself again today why I home school. I start thinking about how they might have more fun at public school and how they offer all those reading programs and you don't have to figure anything out on your own. I think about how they'll miss prom or other events like that as they grow older. Then, I immediately remembered the Father Daughter Purity Ball and how the boys could take their sisters and how much better a life lived first for God and His Kingdom is so much better. We'll do things differently than the world does them and so what if people judge us.

I've just got to remind myself every day that I do not need to compare myself or my family with anyone in this world. I know God has called me to be a good wife and help mate to my husband and mother, nurturer and teacher to my children. The grass is not greener. Why is it that I have to remind myself of this constantly?

BTW - to my friend, Alexis: I love reading your blogs and I've copied your idea of blog-a-day for Blogtober. I've seen Nicky do this, too. We'll see if I make it :).

Pumpkins

We went to Sam's the other day and got these HUGE pumpkins. I love fall. It's becoming my favorite time of year. Summer used to be, but without the beach nearby it's not the same.


The trees are changing colors around here and it's absolutely beautiful. We're fortunate to have mild weather, too. Usually, Halloween brings snow. Either right before or right after. We're reading Spookley the Square Pumpkin and watching It's the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown.


I remember one year we went to Illinois to visit friends and we went to a farm with a pumpkin patch. They had this wonderful barn filled with seasonal decorations (mostly Christmas) and they had cider bubbling. You could smell cinnamon and eucalyptus. There were Christmas trees and pumpkins and everything else you could imagine to decorate your home. It was filled to the rafters. Every fall I think of that place and how rustic and beautiful it was.


Slowly, but surely, I'd like to make my home look like that for all the holidays starting with Halloween.


Here are some pictures of the twins right after a bath with those HUGE pumpkins.

Biden vs. Palin

I watched most of the debate last night and am very relieved that Sarah Palin, for the most part, handle herself well. I was annoyed, a bit, that she kept using her "Gosh darns", "you betchas" and the "Say it ain't so Joe." I didn't like that she kept referring to the "diversity" of her family with a smile. Other than those little things she answered all the questions well. She didn't have any "ums" or "uhs" that I recall and Biden did. Although, Biden seemed more experienced that Palin - which he is - and that always comes across more professional.

Please take a look to the right at my blog links and read the Jeub family blog. There is some great stuff there about what is happening in our gov't today.

An ode to Tristan

The things I love about Tristan are broad and a little weird. Some of the obvious things are the cooing sounds he makes - his little feet (I love to kiss them) and little hands. I love to nurse him because he loves to nurse. He knows when I'm around and turns his head toward my voice. It's funny - I think he likes it when I shout.

I love the smell of his poop - I can just imagine your faces as you read that one. It's sweet and almost smells like popcorn. I love to change his diapers.

I love the way his arms pop up and straighten when he feels a little insecure. Like, when I put him in the water at bath time or lay him on the floor.

I love to kiss his little mouth - his breath smells sweet, too. Like a better version of the poop.

He's started to really focus on my face now. I can tell he's trying to smile, too. I want to record every smell, every expression and the feel of his soft feet and his little cheeks.

He's such a good boy. I hope I can remember everything.

$700,000,000,000?

This is a very important time in our nation's history. Our voice should be heard and each person should take personal responsibilty toward this future.

Read Dave Ramsey's three steps in regard to the $700,000,000,000.00 bail out (just look at all those zeros). Below...

We are at a crucial time in our country's financial history. Congress defeated the $700 billion bailout plan on Monday. However, they are revising it and trying to push it through again. Dave is supporting an alternative plan that will keep our nation from going even deeper in debt. We need everyone's help! Here are 3 steps you can take to change our nation's future:

1. Pray for them to resist a spirit of FEAR and to embrace WISDOM. Even if you don't like them or agree with them, pray for them and tell them you are praying for them. There is a spirit over this problem that must be broken. Also, most of the media personalities are afraid as well and that is affecting their reporting. Pray for fear to be removed from them; they are making this worse.
digg_url = 'http://www.daveramsey.com/etc/fed_bailout/index.html';

2. Send The Common Sense Fix to your Representatives and Senators and tell them how you expect them to vote, and that if they put this nation in $700 billion of debt, that you will vote them out. It's their job to listen to us! (Whichever presidential candidate or political party that champions this plan from their leadership down will likely become the next president. That is because this plan fixes the crisis while going along with the wishes of the vast majority of Americans.)

First, read this page (PDF)
Next, copy the info on this page (text file)
Then send it to your Senators and representatives by copying and pasting the text in the web form you're sent to.*Note: If their websites are down, that means we're making a difference! Keep refreshing the page until you get through. You can also go through Congress.org, though we don't endorse this site.

Send a link to this page to everyone in your address book and tell them to urgently follow these 3 steps TODAY. The more people we have supporting this and contacting their elected leaders, the more likely we can turn our economy around!

More Info:
Share your thoughts and read other's comments
Get a list of Dave's media appearances this week
Find out how your state reps voted for the $700 billion plan
Hear Dave rant about it

This is an Advertisement

I know there are a few people in California and Texas and maybe a few other places that read this blog so I thought I'd put this out there.

We own two weeks in Vail/Beaver Creek area and we always use one of them ourselves. Sometimes we trade the other in for points, but this year we thought we'd try to rent it out. We absolute love this area and I think it's the best skiing anywhere.

Sheraton Mountain Vista is a five-star resort at the foot of Beaver Creek Ski Resort. We've reserved the week of February 8-15. I've included pictures. Email me if you're interested.

absolutebestpainting@q.com