For the past couple of hours I've been packing.
We're leaving for Texas tomorrow afternoon.
There will be two car loads of us...
seven adults and a baby...
...sounds like a movie, huh?
We're going to see my parents.
2010 is a banner year for them.
Dad turned 75 in February.
Mom will turn 70 in December.
They'll celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on September 24th.
We tried to come up with a time
for all of us to get together.
Close...but, no cigars.
We'll miss you, Josh and Meggie!
A rousing game of Monopoly Deal will be played in your honor.
All the while wishing you were here to steal our properties!
Needless to say, I won't be posting
until we return in a few days.
Just you wait...PICS! PICS! PICS!
Lord willing, I'll be back
with gusto!
Peace.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Monday, June 28, 2010
i blinked. now he's twenty-two...
Whew! Where has the time gone?
It's been several days since I posted anything.
It's been seven weeks since I became a grandmother.
It's been twenty-two years since I became a mother of four.
My how time marches on.
It never stops.
Never waits for me to catch my breath.
I remember when I was a child
older people would say,
"The older I get the faster time flies."
Because it took FOR--EVER
for Christmas to arrive each year,
I thought they were crazy!
Now that it seems like
Christmases are three months apart,
I'm realizing how wise those older people were...
and how young!
Our "baby" (meaning the last one born)
turned twenty-two years old
on June 25th.
Yesterday he was four and
he and I were hiding under our staircase
waiting out a tornado warning.
Today he stands 6' 3" and
wears extra-large clothing and
grows facial hair like there's no tomorrow.
He wouldn't fit under our staircase...if we had one.
He almost doesn't fit
in my heart...
I love him so much.
He still likes for me to
rub his head and
scratch his back.
Some things are not out-growable, I guess.
He's a lover of music,
singing and playing the guitar
in particular.
One never knows when
a "full moon" will rise
if he is around.
Just ask his Nonnie. She's still recovering.
He's potato casserole's
biggest fan,
as long as it's made by capable hands.
There have been a couple of catastrophic attempts.
He's learning to make war
against his sin and
to treasure Christ more.
Battling sin can be painful.
But, Christ is faithful
to complete the work that he's begun!
So...here's much love
to Drew...
from birth to twenty-two...
in the blink of an eye.
It's been several days since I posted anything.
It's been seven weeks since I became a grandmother.
It's been twenty-two years since I became a mother of four.
My how time marches on.
It never stops.
Never waits for me to catch my breath.
I remember when I was a child
older people would say,
"The older I get the faster time flies."
Because it took FOR--EVER
for Christmas to arrive each year,
I thought they were crazy!
Now that it seems like
Christmases are three months apart,
I'm realizing how wise those older people were...
and how young!
Our "baby" (meaning the last one born)
turned twenty-two years old
on June 25th.
Yesterday he was four and
he and I were hiding under our staircase
waiting out a tornado warning.
Today he stands 6' 3" and
wears extra-large clothing and
grows facial hair like there's no tomorrow.
He wouldn't fit under our staircase...if we had one.
He almost doesn't fit
in my heart...
I love him so much.
He still likes for me to
rub his head and
scratch his back.
Some things are not out-growable, I guess.
He's a lover of music,
singing and playing the guitar
in particular.
One never knows when
a "full moon" will rise
if he is around.
Just ask his Nonnie. She's still recovering.
He's potato casserole's
biggest fan,
as long as it's made by capable hands.
There have been a couple of catastrophic attempts.
He's learning to make war
against his sin and
to treasure Christ more.
Battling sin can be painful.
But, Christ is faithful
to complete the work that he's begun!
So...here's much love
to Drew...
from birth to twenty-two...
in the blink of an eye.
Here are some pics from his party...
Monopoly Deal was the game of the night.
The "birthday boy" is at the head of the table.
This is Matt.
Look up"faithful friend" in the dictionary.
His picture is next to it.
Precious.
This is Hallerin. Love him!
You should hear him play the violin!
This is Leslie. Such a jewel.
She's holding Hudson.
Twenty-two years ago
that was the "birthday boy"!
Leslie made this...
chocolate cake with peanut butter icing.
Whoa, Momma!
It was GOOD!!
Bethany (our beautiful daughter) enjoyed catching up
with Bonnie. Two rare gems.
Sweet Husband enjoyed some cuddle-time
with the little man.
Lovin' the faux-hawk!
Check out the dimple in that left cheek...
Batten down the hatches boys
a storm is brewin'!
Sweet Husband and I sang a special b'day song
to the "birthday boy".
No...it will not be played on a station near you.
But...it was fun!
The birthday boy...
yesterday.
Sweet Husband and the birthday boy...
today.
Oh what a difference a day makes!
(last photo taken by Ben Finch)
Monday, June 21, 2010
this guy is really funny. really...
Let's laugh a little. Whatcha say?
...and in honor of Josh and Meggie, Chick-Fil-A's biggest fans...
Learn more about Tim Hawkins at www.timhawkins.net
...and in honor of Josh and Meggie, Chick-Fil-A's biggest fans...
Learn more about Tim Hawkins at www.timhawkins.net
Saturday, June 19, 2010
continually at all times. no wiggle room there...
So...I'm meditating on Psalm 34 this morning and some words in verse 1 ("I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth.") virtually leap off the page at me.
"...at all times..." Really?
...at all times? No...seriously...
"...continually..."? ...as in never not? (I know...double-negative...but, just think about it for a second and go with it...)
I search the cross references to this verse. Surely they will shed some light on what this really means.
I turn to Ephesians 5:20 and it says, "giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ."
...always? ...for everything?
Sweet Husband encourages me to not use such extreme words like "always" and "never". Of course, that's usually when we're in conflict and it seems like he "always" does this...or "never" does that.
But, this is God's Word. ...and he doesn't use his Word to manipulate us...like we use our words to manipulate.
Back to the cross references. There was one more.
I turn to 1 Thessalonians 5:18 and read, "give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
There's that "all" word again. ...and God goes even further, stating that this is his will for me.
And "giving thanks" is not all...vs. 18 is actually a continuation of vs. 17 where he says,"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing"
...again..."always" and "without ceasing" (another way of saying "continually"...that "never not" word).
So...if I'm "at all times" and "continually" and "for everything" and "in all circumstances" blessing the Lord, praising the Lord, giving thanks to the Lord, rejoicing and praying always...when do I get to whine and complain and vent and talk about ME and how I feel?
I mean...didn't David whine and vent and talk about his feelings on occasion? (can you say "rhetorical question"?) Of course. But, he whined, vented and talked about his feelings to the Lord. I want to whine, complain, vent and talk about my feelings with other people. Big difference.
You see, whining, complaining, venting and talking about my feelings with other people might mean I'll get validated and affirmed...and hopefully, I'll get sympathy and consolation...giving me "permission" to continue in my self-wallowing. (unless they are faithful friends who take the opportunity to care for my soul and correct me)
To take all of it to the Lord means a sure reminder from the Holy Spirit, if I'm really humbled before him, that whatever I'm walking through is a good gift from my loving Heavenly Father, suited perfectly for me...for my sanctification and my good...for his glory and my joy. That though my heart feels heavy and I perceive my load as too much to bear...
"The LORD is good to those who wait for him, to the soul who seeks him. It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD. It is good for a man that he bear the yoke in his youth. Let him sit alone in silence when it is laid on him; let him put his mouth in the dust - there may yet be hope; let him give his cheek to the one who strikes, and let him be filled with insults. For the Lord will not cast off forever, but, though he cause grief, he will have compassion according to the abundance of his steadfast love; for he does not willingly afflict or grieve the children of men." (Lamentations 3: 25-33)
Luke 9:23-24 says, "And he (Jesus) said to all, 'If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it.'"
This is when I feel the sharpness of the two edges of the sword that is God's Word. It cuts at my very core and exposes ugliness too heinous to be described.
Wouldn't it be so much more comfortable for Luke 9: 23 to read, "...let him INDULGE himself..."? I know it would be a whole lot easier to obey!
...and I'm sure it would've been a whole lot easier for Jesus to not have had to go to the cross. He was so pained thinking about what was ahead of him...all that taking up the cross would entail...especially the separation from his Father...that he pled with the Father to let the cup pass from him. He pled so intensely that he had blood seeping from his pores. (...have I ever implored the Father that earnestly? ...another subject for another post...)
Yet, "he was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent, so he opened not his mouth." (Isaiah 53:7) "...Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God." (Hebrews 12:2)
Jesus knew the pain he was facing...but he didn't ever complain or whine or vent to his disciples...he only pled to his Father (with perfect motives) and accepted the Father's will. He set his heart on the joy before him...glorifying the Father...defeating sin and death...providing redemption for me...becoming "the way of escape" from all temptation and besetting sins...taking on all my sin that I might be clothed in all his righteousness.
...and isn't Christ to be my example? God is, after all, conforming me to the image of his Son. (Romans 8:29)
...and though it won't be until "that day" that I will really be "like him", God gives me grace and the ministry of the Holy Spirit that I might "walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which I have been called" (Ephesians 4:1) until "that day".
...and one way he calls me to walk is with thankfulness to the LORD "at all times", "continually" praising him, giving thanks to him "for everything" and "in all circumstances"..."for it is God who works in [me], both to will and to work for his good pleasure." (Philippians 2:13)
"Oh, magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together!" (Psalm 34:3)
"...at all times..." Really?
...at all times? No...seriously...
"...continually..."? ...as in never not? (I know...double-negative...but, just think about it for a second and go with it...)
I search the cross references to this verse. Surely they will shed some light on what this really means.
I turn to Ephesians 5:20 and it says, "giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ."
...always? ...for everything?
Sweet Husband encourages me to not use such extreme words like "always" and "never". Of course, that's usually when we're in conflict and it seems like he "always" does this...or "never" does that.
But, this is God's Word. ...and he doesn't use his Word to manipulate us...like we use our words to manipulate.
Back to the cross references. There was one more.
I turn to 1 Thessalonians 5:18 and read, "give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
There's that "all" word again. ...and God goes even further, stating that this is his will for me.
And "giving thanks" is not all...vs. 18 is actually a continuation of vs. 17 where he says,"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing"
...again..."always" and "without ceasing" (another way of saying "continually"...that "never not" word).
So...if I'm "at all times" and "continually" and "for everything" and "in all circumstances" blessing the Lord, praising the Lord, giving thanks to the Lord, rejoicing and praying always...when do I get to whine and complain and vent and talk about ME and how I feel?
I mean...didn't David whine and vent and talk about his feelings on occasion? (can you say "rhetorical question"?) Of course. But, he whined, vented and talked about his feelings to the Lord. I want to whine, complain, vent and talk about my feelings with other people. Big difference.
You see, whining, complaining, venting and talking about my feelings with other people might mean I'll get validated and affirmed...and hopefully, I'll get sympathy and consolation...giving me "permission" to continue in my self-wallowing. (unless they are faithful friends who take the opportunity to care for my soul and correct me)
To take all of it to the Lord means a sure reminder from the Holy Spirit, if I'm really humbled before him, that whatever I'm walking through is a good gift from my loving Heavenly Father, suited perfectly for me...for my sanctification and my good...for his glory and my joy. That though my heart feels heavy and I perceive my load as too much to bear...
"The LORD is good to those who wait for him, to the soul who seeks him. It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD. It is good for a man that he bear the yoke in his youth. Let him sit alone in silence when it is laid on him; let him put his mouth in the dust - there may yet be hope; let him give his cheek to the one who strikes, and let him be filled with insults. For the Lord will not cast off forever, but, though he cause grief, he will have compassion according to the abundance of his steadfast love; for he does not willingly afflict or grieve the children of men." (Lamentations 3: 25-33)
Luke 9:23-24 says, "And he (Jesus) said to all, 'If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it.'"
This is when I feel the sharpness of the two edges of the sword that is God's Word. It cuts at my very core and exposes ugliness too heinous to be described.
Wouldn't it be so much more comfortable for Luke 9: 23 to read, "...let him INDULGE himself..."? I know it would be a whole lot easier to obey!
...and I'm sure it would've been a whole lot easier for Jesus to not have had to go to the cross. He was so pained thinking about what was ahead of him...all that taking up the cross would entail...especially the separation from his Father...that he pled with the Father to let the cup pass from him. He pled so intensely that he had blood seeping from his pores. (...have I ever implored the Father that earnestly? ...another subject for another post...)
Yet, "he was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent, so he opened not his mouth." (Isaiah 53:7) "...Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God." (Hebrews 12:2)
Jesus knew the pain he was facing...but he didn't ever complain or whine or vent to his disciples...he only pled to his Father (with perfect motives) and accepted the Father's will. He set his heart on the joy before him...glorifying the Father...defeating sin and death...providing redemption for me...becoming "the way of escape" from all temptation and besetting sins...taking on all my sin that I might be clothed in all his righteousness.
...and isn't Christ to be my example? God is, after all, conforming me to the image of his Son. (Romans 8:29)
...and though it won't be until "that day" that I will really be "like him", God gives me grace and the ministry of the Holy Spirit that I might "walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which I have been called" (Ephesians 4:1) until "that day".
...and one way he calls me to walk is with thankfulness to the LORD "at all times", "continually" praising him, giving thanks to him "for everything" and "in all circumstances"..."for it is God who works in [me], both to will and to work for his good pleasure." (Philippians 2:13)
"Oh, magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together!" (Psalm 34:3)
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
uncle josh meets hudson. good times...
This post is about two weeks overdue...but will be no less enjoyable, I'm sure! Family pics NEVER get old...mundane...or boring! So...sit back and enjoy a review of our "Josh Meets Hudson Weekend".
First, a little history. Don't worry...it's only a couple of months worth...won't take long at all.
In mid-April our oldest son, Josh, and his wife, Meggie, moved to Brooklyn, NY. Yes, it's a very long way from TN to NY. Yes, we were sad. Yes, we're looking forward to heaven when time and distance are no longer issues.
Bethany, our daughter, had our first grandchild, Hudson, on May 7th. Josh and Meggie were in Brooklyn. Yes, they were in the throws of transition. No, they didn't make it. Yes, we're looking forward to heaven when time and distance are no longer issues.
Josh called the end of May and said he was coming for a visit...he was anxious to meet his new nephew, Hudson. Meggie was not going to be able to come, but was very eager for Josh to make the trip. Yes, we missed her...a lot. Yes, I hugged Josh twice as much...per Meggie's request. Yes, we're looking forward to heaven when time and distance are no longer issues.
On June 4th Sweet Husband and I drove to the airport to pick-up Josh. There might have been tears of joyful anticipation. If there were...it was definitely to be expected and totally appropriate.
As Sweet Husband and I were pulling into the parking garage, I received a text message from Josh that read, "Just landed." That might have been the most awesome text I've ever received.
We made our way to the airport lobby and waited for Josh to appear through the "Arriving" revolving doors.
When I saw him, it was very hard to maintain any sense of decorum. But, I didn't want to embarrass him or Sweet Husband...so I just hugged him extra-tightly and allowed my eyes to mist a little. Our children have grown accustomed to my ways...sigh...
Josh was with us from Friday afternoon until Tuesday morning. We tried to make the most of each and every second...though each one seemed to pass quicker than the one before and all too soon our time was over and he was headed back to the land of skyscrapers...and his sweet Meggie. Yes, the days seemed much shorter than usual. No, there weren't enough of them. Yes, we're looking forward to heaven when time and distance are no longer issues.
Here are some photos of our time together. Precious memories...
First, a little history. Don't worry...it's only a couple of months worth...won't take long at all.
In mid-April our oldest son, Josh, and his wife, Meggie, moved to Brooklyn, NY. Yes, it's a very long way from TN to NY. Yes, we were sad. Yes, we're looking forward to heaven when time and distance are no longer issues.
Bethany, our daughter, had our first grandchild, Hudson, on May 7th. Josh and Meggie were in Brooklyn. Yes, they were in the throws of transition. No, they didn't make it. Yes, we're looking forward to heaven when time and distance are no longer issues.
Josh called the end of May and said he was coming for a visit...he was anxious to meet his new nephew, Hudson. Meggie was not going to be able to come, but was very eager for Josh to make the trip. Yes, we missed her...a lot. Yes, I hugged Josh twice as much...per Meggie's request. Yes, we're looking forward to heaven when time and distance are no longer issues.
On June 4th Sweet Husband and I drove to the airport to pick-up Josh. There might have been tears of joyful anticipation. If there were...it was definitely to be expected and totally appropriate.
As Sweet Husband and I were pulling into the parking garage, I received a text message from Josh that read, "Just landed." That might have been the most awesome text I've ever received.
We made our way to the airport lobby and waited for Josh to appear through the "Arriving" revolving doors.
When I saw him, it was very hard to maintain any sense of decorum. But, I didn't want to embarrass him or Sweet Husband...so I just hugged him extra-tightly and allowed my eyes to mist a little. Our children have grown accustomed to my ways...sigh...
Josh was with us from Friday afternoon until Tuesday morning. We tried to make the most of each and every second...though each one seemed to pass quicker than the one before and all too soon our time was over and he was headed back to the land of skyscrapers...and his sweet Meggie. Yes, the days seemed much shorter than usual. No, there weren't enough of them. Yes, we're looking forward to heaven when time and distance are no longer issues.
Here are some photos of our time together. Precious memories...
The guest of honor...Josh...it was so good to see him!
Uncle Josh meets Hudson Jude. It was mutual love at first sight.
They just connected instantly. It was uncanny.
It's a common response to meeting Hudson. He has that effect on everyone.
Yep...I'd travel many miles for this, too!
Wouldn't you?
Jake and Loren were house-sitting for some people who encouraged them to have people over. So, we all gathered on Sunday afternoon for some burgers and brats...and more cuddle-time for Uncle Josh and Hudson.
Cuddling before food. It's all about priorities!
Cuddle break to cook kraut.
Sweet Husband was happy to grab some Hudson time.
The burgers and brats went quickly. Then we moved on to more serious matters...
...these incredibly scrumptious mocha brownies that Loren made
from The Pioneer Woman Cookbook. If you've never checked out
The Pioneer Woman...GO!...do not pass go...do not collect $200.
You'll thank me. I promise.
This is Belle. She agrees.
So does Rex. Their sniffers were overwhelmed by glorious smells.
...especially this one.
Sweet Husband received his Father's Day gift a couple of weeks early due to my "Brain Fart #999".
On Monday evening we all gathered together again and enjoyed one last meal together before Josh trekked back to the city.
We love sharing time around the table.
The food on this table was absolutely delicious! Under the guacamole is tequila lime chicken with Mexican rice next to it and black beans in the bowl. Again...The Pioneer Woman is "THE woman"! I'm just sayin'...
Sweet Husband made his inaugural batch of ice cream.
It was peach. It was divine!
Just ask Peter...he'll tell you...
...ummm...when he gets done.
After dinner and ice cream the uncles got in some more Hudson time.
Oh my...what we'll do to get a reaction from a baby.
Forgive your uncles, Hudson...they know not what they look like.
Beautiful Momma Bethany, Proud Uncle Josh...
Sweet Baby Hudson
He "hearts" his Uncle Josh more...
...and the visit came to a close...as all good things tend to do. Except heaven...where time and distance are no longer issues. "Oh, what a glorious day that will be! Oh, glorious day!" (from "One Day" by J. Wilbur Chapman)
Thursday, June 10, 2010
there's a hole in my heart. sweet bosco...
Tuesday morning began like any other morning. I got up and showered while Sweet Husband got his clothes ready for work. I had begun to put my makeup on when Sweet Husband scooped our Miniature Dachshund, Bosco (also affectionately called "Biscuit" by Sweet Husband and "Boskee" by our youngest son, Drew), off of our bed to put him outside to do his morning duties.
It was only a couple of minutes later that we heard a knock on the back door. Sweet Husband opened the door to find a neighbor cradling Bosco in her arms and bearing the frightening news that he had been attacked by a stray dog. She placed him in Sweet Husband's arms as he stepped outside. I raced out to find Sweet Husband cradling our sweet friend of 15 years as he struggled to breathe.
The viciousness of his attacker was unprovoked and unwarranted. In fact, the lady who brought Bosco to us after he had been attacked told us that the stray dog did not even take the time to sniff Bosco..."he just went after him."
I will spare you all the details, as they are not what you would necessarily want to have in your mind. Suffice it to say, we had known for awhile that Bosco's life was in its sunset...but, we never dreamed his little life would end this way.
He was a quirky little fellow from the day we brought him home. His ears never lay as dachshund ears are supposed to...softly on each side of the head. No, Bosco's ears stood straight out...just like a little bat. They never ceased to be a quality that endeared him to everyone he met.
Bosco loved to burrow beneath blankets. It could be the end of July, high noon with no air conditioning and Bosco, if sitting on the floor, would be shivering. Being nestled in a blanket was his first choice...and if a blanket wasn't available, hopefully there would be a pool of sun streaming through a window. That would work just fine, too.
While he was always a little skittish about approaching people when called, the quickest way to his heart was to let him light in your lap. He was a true lap-dog. His two favorite laps in our family were Josh's and Drew's. It was special time, indeed, for Bosco when either of them ventured home for a visit.
Bosco loved to play. He would get so excited that he would run in a circle as fast as he could...then spread his little 4" front legs out waiting to see which direction to run next...and whichever way you would step, he would race in a circle out of sheer delight to be playing with you.
Although he had to endure a lot of licking from him, Bosco loved his compadre, Jonah, our yellow Labrador Retriever. Typically, Jonah was the alpha dog. However, there were times that Bosco knew he could assert himself over Jonah and not get chastised. Jonah would be stretched out on the floor and Bosco would wallow all over him...dig in Jonah's ears with his nose...jump and rub all up and down Jonah's body...swab his face on Jonah's coat. It was the funniest thing to watch. Bosco obviously loved those times. Jonah tolerated them...because they were buds.
Bosco was pretty much the neighborhood mascot. He owned the street as if it were his dominion. Superman may have had the ability to leap tall buildings in a single bound...but, Bosco had the ability to stop a car dead in its tracks. He would strut down the street, ears straight out, and should a car need to pass he might move to the side and he might not. The driver never failed to lower the window and greet the little guy. He might acknowledge their presence...if there wasn't more pressing business...like chasing a kid on a bicycle. He never understood why those contraptions were allowed on his street.
Everyone is feeling Bosco's absence. Word traveled quickly through the neighborhood about Bosco's death. Neighbors have called...stopped us on the street...come to our house...to offer their condolences. He was a little dog with a large presence.
The way Bosco died was a stark reminder of the fallen state of God's creation. The effects of sin permeate through all of creation...the plant kingdom, the animal kingdom...there is no aspect of creation that is not broken and decaying because of sin.
Romans 8: 19-22 tells us, "For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now."
Ever since Tuesday I've been thinking about "that day"...when creation will be set free and the effects of sin will be no more. Isaiah 11: 6 says, "The wolf shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the young goat, and the calf and the lion and the fattened calf together; and a little child shall lead them."
Sweet Husband and I are looking forward to that day.
But, for now, our house is a little quieter. Bosco isn't barking at phantom noises....and his little nails are no longer clicking on our floors, nor are they scratching at the back door. Our bed is a little roomier...and our laps are vacant.
His little 9 lb. body didn't really take up very much room. But, over 15 years he had built quite the residence in our hearts.
We surely do miss our little Bosco-buddy!!
It was only a couple of minutes later that we heard a knock on the back door. Sweet Husband opened the door to find a neighbor cradling Bosco in her arms and bearing the frightening news that he had been attacked by a stray dog. She placed him in Sweet Husband's arms as he stepped outside. I raced out to find Sweet Husband cradling our sweet friend of 15 years as he struggled to breathe.
The viciousness of his attacker was unprovoked and unwarranted. In fact, the lady who brought Bosco to us after he had been attacked told us that the stray dog did not even take the time to sniff Bosco..."he just went after him."
I will spare you all the details, as they are not what you would necessarily want to have in your mind. Suffice it to say, we had known for awhile that Bosco's life was in its sunset...but, we never dreamed his little life would end this way.
He was a quirky little fellow from the day we brought him home. His ears never lay as dachshund ears are supposed to...softly on each side of the head. No, Bosco's ears stood straight out...just like a little bat. They never ceased to be a quality that endeared him to everyone he met.
Bosco loved to burrow beneath blankets. It could be the end of July, high noon with no air conditioning and Bosco, if sitting on the floor, would be shivering. Being nestled in a blanket was his first choice...and if a blanket wasn't available, hopefully there would be a pool of sun streaming through a window. That would work just fine, too.
While he was always a little skittish about approaching people when called, the quickest way to his heart was to let him light in your lap. He was a true lap-dog. His two favorite laps in our family were Josh's and Drew's. It was special time, indeed, for Bosco when either of them ventured home for a visit.
Bosco loved to play. He would get so excited that he would run in a circle as fast as he could...then spread his little 4" front legs out waiting to see which direction to run next...and whichever way you would step, he would race in a circle out of sheer delight to be playing with you.
Although he had to endure a lot of licking from him, Bosco loved his compadre, Jonah, our yellow Labrador Retriever. Typically, Jonah was the alpha dog. However, there were times that Bosco knew he could assert himself over Jonah and not get chastised. Jonah would be stretched out on the floor and Bosco would wallow all over him...dig in Jonah's ears with his nose...jump and rub all up and down Jonah's body...swab his face on Jonah's coat. It was the funniest thing to watch. Bosco obviously loved those times. Jonah tolerated them...because they were buds.
Bosco was pretty much the neighborhood mascot. He owned the street as if it were his dominion. Superman may have had the ability to leap tall buildings in a single bound...but, Bosco had the ability to stop a car dead in its tracks. He would strut down the street, ears straight out, and should a car need to pass he might move to the side and he might not. The driver never failed to lower the window and greet the little guy. He might acknowledge their presence...if there wasn't more pressing business...like chasing a kid on a bicycle. He never understood why those contraptions were allowed on his street.
Everyone is feeling Bosco's absence. Word traveled quickly through the neighborhood about Bosco's death. Neighbors have called...stopped us on the street...come to our house...to offer their condolences. He was a little dog with a large presence.
The way Bosco died was a stark reminder of the fallen state of God's creation. The effects of sin permeate through all of creation...the plant kingdom, the animal kingdom...there is no aspect of creation that is not broken and decaying because of sin.
Romans 8: 19-22 tells us, "For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now."
Ever since Tuesday I've been thinking about "that day"...when creation will be set free and the effects of sin will be no more. Isaiah 11: 6 says, "The wolf shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the young goat, and the calf and the lion and the fattened calf together; and a little child shall lead them."
Sweet Husband and I are looking forward to that day.
But, for now, our house is a little quieter. Bosco isn't barking at phantom noises....and his little nails are no longer clicking on our floors, nor are they scratching at the back door. Our bed is a little roomier...and our laps are vacant.
His little 9 lb. body didn't really take up very much room. But, over 15 years he had built quite the residence in our hearts.
We surely do miss our little Bosco-buddy!!
Sunday, June 6, 2010
i was so sure. and so sincerely wrong...
So what if I thought today was Father's Day.
So what if I convinced Sweet Husband, too...and our four grown children.
So what if he called his step-father at 7:00AM to wish him "Happy Father's Day".
So what if the call sounded something like this...
Sweet Husband: Hey, Ras! Just calling to wish you a happy Father's Day!
Ras: What? It's Father's Day?
Sweet Husband: I hope so. (looking at me with a slightly confused expression...me nodding emphatically)
Ras: Well...I don't know...
Sweet Husband: Well...now I don't know either... But, I love you and hope you have a great day! (call ends)
Sweet Husband then turned to me and said...
Sweet Husband: He said he didn't think it's Father's Day. Are you sure it's Father's Day? Here...(handing me his Blackberry)...look it up on Google and make sure.
Me: Well...okay...but, I'm sure it's today! (I begin searching Google for Father's Day date)
My internet search is interrupted by Sweet Husband's cell phone ringing...it's his mom...uh-oh...
Sweet Husband: Hey, Mom!
Janice: Are you doin' okay?
Sweet Husband: Yeah...
Janice: Ummm...Father's Day isn't 'til the 20th.
Sweet Husband breaks out in a huge belly laugh...and I'm feeling certain this is going to be a large lesson in humility for me...one that we laugh about for years to come. (Sweet Husband finishes talking to his mom)
Sweet Husband: (between fits of laughter) She said it's not 'til the 20th...
Have you ever been overtaken by emotion...not sadness...just emotion...and your eyes well up with tears? Me, too.
Sweet Husband and I both laughed 'til we cried...several times...as we drove to Knoxville for church.
Such outbreaks will continue for an undetermined amount of time...
...probably until we go to see Jesus.
So what if I convinced Sweet Husband, too...and our four grown children.
So what if he called his step-father at 7:00AM to wish him "Happy Father's Day".
So what if the call sounded something like this...
Sweet Husband: Hey, Ras! Just calling to wish you a happy Father's Day!
Ras: What? It's Father's Day?
Sweet Husband: I hope so. (looking at me with a slightly confused expression...me nodding emphatically)
Ras: Well...I don't know...
Sweet Husband: Well...now I don't know either... But, I love you and hope you have a great day! (call ends)
Sweet Husband then turned to me and said...
Sweet Husband: He said he didn't think it's Father's Day. Are you sure it's Father's Day? Here...(handing me his Blackberry)...look it up on Google and make sure.
Me: Well...okay...but, I'm sure it's today! (I begin searching Google for Father's Day date)
My internet search is interrupted by Sweet Husband's cell phone ringing...it's his mom...uh-oh...
Sweet Husband: Hey, Mom!
Janice: Are you doin' okay?
Sweet Husband: Yeah...
Janice: Ummm...Father's Day isn't 'til the 20th.
Sweet Husband breaks out in a huge belly laugh...and I'm feeling certain this is going to be a large lesson in humility for me...one that we laugh about for years to come. (Sweet Husband finishes talking to his mom)
Sweet Husband: (between fits of laughter) She said it's not 'til the 20th...
Have you ever been overtaken by emotion...not sadness...just emotion...and your eyes well up with tears? Me, too.
Sweet Husband and I both laughed 'til we cried...several times...as we drove to Knoxville for church.
Such outbreaks will continue for an undetermined amount of time...
...probably until we go to see Jesus.
Saturday, June 5, 2010
a life story. he's for it...
Well...it's Saturday and Sweet Husband and I are basking in the enjoyment of having all of our progeny around us. Josh, our oldest son, flew in from Brooklyn, NYC yesterday to meet his nephew, Hudson, for the first time. (We miss you, Meggie!!)
Because I don't have time to post what I'd really like to post I'm going to quickly post a post that another blogger posted. (I was trying to see how many times I could use the word 'post' in one sentence...whhaaaat...it's a free country!)
Sweet Husband sent this to me yesterday. He knows how stories like this touch my heart... I'm betting it'll touch yours, too.
(video from http://www.dennyburk.com/)
Because I don't have time to post what I'd really like to post I'm going to quickly post a post that another blogger posted. (I was trying to see how many times I could use the word 'post' in one sentence...whhaaaat...it's a free country!)
Sweet Husband sent this to me yesterday. He knows how stories like this touch my heart... I'm betting it'll touch yours, too.
(video from http://www.dennyburk.com/)
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
you gotta scratch where it itches. because...
For going on 28 years I've been married to Sweet Husband.
For going on 28 years his step-father, Ras, has never ceased to cause me great pains in my sides due to hysterical laughter brought on by his one-liners. He just throws 'em out in general conversation. You never know when one is about to hit your ears. There's really no way to prepare for the laughter that will overtake anyone within earshot. It just hits you. And you're toast.
I could try to type some examples for you...but, you would read them and be totally unaffected.
No...Ras has to be the deliverer or they just fall flat.
Okay...for example...Sweet Husband was telling some childhood story and obviously embellishing some details and Ras said, "Now, Mike, you know that's not true! Why, you'd rather climb a greasy pole to tell a lie than stand on the ground to tell the truth!"
You're probably not doubled over clutching your stomach in laughter right now...but, in the moment when he slings one out there...it's all over.
Ras is really the only person who has affected me this way...with his "sayings"...until Martha.
Let me precede the rest of this post by saying...I love Martha! You would, too, if you had the chance to be around her for...oh...about a minute or two. There is no doubt she's from East TN...from the first word that proceeds from her mouth. She loves Jesus and has such a sweet relationship with her granddaughter...loves her husband and her family. And, though I've only known her for a few months, I can tell that she is a faithful friend. I can learn much from her.
I work with Martha (the one who slobbered all over my grandson, Hudson) and she is what I would call a "HOOT"! I've laughed more in the few months we've worked together than in the rest of the three years before she joined the team.
I've also learned a lot during these months. Martha is very knowledgeable about many things...unusual things.
For instance, Martha is a big advocate for chiropractic care. Personally, I've never been to a chiropractor. But, Martha is convinced in her own mind that even though it sounds like "Voo-Doo Medicine" (her words), it's what has worked for her for years.
One day when I felt a nasty cold coming on, I decided to go to the health food store and purchase some colloidal silver to boost my immune system. When I returned to the office, Martha said, "Do you want me to strong arm you to tell how much you need to take?" Not having ever been "strong armed" I wasn't sure it would be a good idea. But, Martha was already halfway to my desk and didn't look like she was going to take "no" for an answer.
She reached me and took the bottle of colloidal silver and told me to hold it in my left hand over my heart. Done. She then told me to hold my rightt arm out to my side and resist her as she pushed down on it until I "went weak".
So, there I stood in the middle of our office clutching a bottle of colloidal silver to my heart (praying that nobody walked in the front door), while Martha was pumping my left arm like she was trying to pump water from a well. She pushed on my arm and after three pushes I couldn't hold my arm up anymore...I had "gone weak". So, she determined that I needed to take three teaspoons of colloidal silver. ...but, we weren't done.
She said she needed to strong arm me again to see how many times a day I needed to take those three teaspoons. I assumed the position again and she pumped my arm again...and I "went weak" after four pumps.
My instructions, then, were to take my colloidal silver three teaspoons, four times a day. I asked how long I should proceed in that manner and she said she'd check me again the next day.
The next day, first thing, she said, "Let's check and see how you're doing." I assumed the position and she strong armed me...and low and behold...I only needed two teaspoons, two times a day! ...and the next day I reduced it to once a day...and then I was feeling mucho better!
Now...I know this sounds incredibly crazy...and Martha would be the first to say..."I know this sounds incredibly crazy!" ...but, that is the one and only time in my life that I have ever gotten over a cold that quickly.
I just never know what I'm going to learn from Martha. Today's lesson was particularly insightful.
I was sitting at my desk doing some work and out of the blue I heard Martha say, "Ooo! My left hand is itchin'...must be gettin' some money soon!" Not really understanding what she said, I said, "What was that?" She said, "My left hand is itchin'...must be gettin' some money soon!"
I just laughed and said, "Where on earth did that come from?"
She said, "You haven't ever heard that? My momma used to say all the time, 'If your left hand itches, you're gonna be gettin' some money. If your right hand itches, you're gonna shake hands with a stranger. If your back itches, someone's either gonna give you some lovin' or a whoopin'...I prefer the lovin'. ...and if your feet itch, you're gonna walk on strange ground."
And all my momma told me was that if my nose was itching company must be coming. I didn't know that all my other itches held such possibilities!!
Martha...how have I made it without you all these years?!?
For going on 28 years his step-father, Ras, has never ceased to cause me great pains in my sides due to hysterical laughter brought on by his one-liners. He just throws 'em out in general conversation. You never know when one is about to hit your ears. There's really no way to prepare for the laughter that will overtake anyone within earshot. It just hits you. And you're toast.
I could try to type some examples for you...but, you would read them and be totally unaffected.
No...Ras has to be the deliverer or they just fall flat.
Okay...for example...Sweet Husband was telling some childhood story and obviously embellishing some details and Ras said, "Now, Mike, you know that's not true! Why, you'd rather climb a greasy pole to tell a lie than stand on the ground to tell the truth!"
You're probably not doubled over clutching your stomach in laughter right now...but, in the moment when he slings one out there...it's all over.
Ras is really the only person who has affected me this way...with his "sayings"...until Martha.
Let me precede the rest of this post by saying...I love Martha! You would, too, if you had the chance to be around her for...oh...about a minute or two. There is no doubt she's from East TN...from the first word that proceeds from her mouth. She loves Jesus and has such a sweet relationship with her granddaughter...loves her husband and her family. And, though I've only known her for a few months, I can tell that she is a faithful friend. I can learn much from her.
I work with Martha (the one who slobbered all over my grandson, Hudson) and she is what I would call a "HOOT"! I've laughed more in the few months we've worked together than in the rest of the three years before she joined the team.
I've also learned a lot during these months. Martha is very knowledgeable about many things...unusual things.
For instance, Martha is a big advocate for chiropractic care. Personally, I've never been to a chiropractor. But, Martha is convinced in her own mind that even though it sounds like "Voo-Doo Medicine" (her words), it's what has worked for her for years.
One day when I felt a nasty cold coming on, I decided to go to the health food store and purchase some colloidal silver to boost my immune system. When I returned to the office, Martha said, "Do you want me to strong arm you to tell how much you need to take?" Not having ever been "strong armed" I wasn't sure it would be a good idea. But, Martha was already halfway to my desk and didn't look like she was going to take "no" for an answer.
She reached me and took the bottle of colloidal silver and told me to hold it in my left hand over my heart. Done. She then told me to hold my rightt arm out to my side and resist her as she pushed down on it until I "went weak".
So, there I stood in the middle of our office clutching a bottle of colloidal silver to my heart (praying that nobody walked in the front door), while Martha was pumping my left arm like she was trying to pump water from a well. She pushed on my arm and after three pushes I couldn't hold my arm up anymore...I had "gone weak". So, she determined that I needed to take three teaspoons of colloidal silver. ...but, we weren't done.
She said she needed to strong arm me again to see how many times a day I needed to take those three teaspoons. I assumed the position again and she pumped my arm again...and I "went weak" after four pumps.
My instructions, then, were to take my colloidal silver three teaspoons, four times a day. I asked how long I should proceed in that manner and she said she'd check me again the next day.
The next day, first thing, she said, "Let's check and see how you're doing." I assumed the position and she strong armed me...and low and behold...I only needed two teaspoons, two times a day! ...and the next day I reduced it to once a day...and then I was feeling mucho better!
Now...I know this sounds incredibly crazy...and Martha would be the first to say..."I know this sounds incredibly crazy!" ...but, that is the one and only time in my life that I have ever gotten over a cold that quickly.
I just never know what I'm going to learn from Martha. Today's lesson was particularly insightful.
I was sitting at my desk doing some work and out of the blue I heard Martha say, "Ooo! My left hand is itchin'...must be gettin' some money soon!" Not really understanding what she said, I said, "What was that?" She said, "My left hand is itchin'...must be gettin' some money soon!"
I just laughed and said, "Where on earth did that come from?"
She said, "You haven't ever heard that? My momma used to say all the time, 'If your left hand itches, you're gonna be gettin' some money. If your right hand itches, you're gonna shake hands with a stranger. If your back itches, someone's either gonna give you some lovin' or a whoopin'...I prefer the lovin'. ...and if your feet itch, you're gonna walk on strange ground."
And all my momma told me was that if my nose was itching company must be coming. I didn't know that all my other itches held such possibilities!!
Martha...how have I made it without you all these years?!?
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
incredible weekend. in part because of these...
Sweet husband and I enjoyed our long weekend together. It was just the two of us. Well...on Sunday we enjoyed worshiping with and having lunch with our youngest son, Drew. But, other than that...it was just the two of us. Everyone else was out of town.
To be perfectly honest...we LOVE it when our kids come home for visits. And we also LOVE it when we have long weekends...just us two chickens.
We walked...we talked...we laughed...we cried...we grilled...we ate...we slept...we...well, you get the picture. It was wonderful!!
Typically on long weekends like this I get the itch to bake something special. This weekend was no exception. Even though the eaters were few.
We went out to the Mayfield Farm & Nursery...GREAT STUFF!!! I've purchased many fresh strawberries from Michael Mayfield this season, and was excited to buy some more. My heart was broken when we drove up to the sales room and it was shut tight as a drum with signs on both doors that said, "SOLD OUT TODAY".
So...I had to drop back and punt.
One of Sweet Husband's favorite desserts is "Perfect Chocolate Cake". I happened upon the recipe on the back of the Hershey's Cocoa container one day and Sweet Husband has never been the same since. If I go too many months without making one, he begins dropping hints.
It has been awhile since I baked him a cake...so it did cross my mind. But...no. I wanted to try something new. ...and something chocolate was sounding pretty good.
I got on the internet and began a hunt for something new...something yummy. Where I landed was on a brownie recipe. I know...that sounds so unoriginal and not so special. But, I've never made homemade brownies from scratch. Betty Crocker or Duncan Hines or other various and sundry box-mixes have always assisted me in their own special way.
First I read the recipe to make sure I had all the ingredients. Check.
That's all I needed. While Sweet Husband was grilling our delicious steaks (I NEVER order steak at restaurants ever ever ever. Nobody can grill a steak like Sweet Husband!!!), I whipped up some brownies. They were one-bowl quick. Super easy. And the end result was...
AMAZING!!! Sweet Husband groaned and moaned and declared "THIS RECIPE IS A KEEPER!" They really are very moist and super-chocolaty...especially since they're frosted. Add a glass of milk and you might think you've died and gone to heaven!
Here's the recipe... ENJOY!
(recipe from www.allrecipes.com...except #7 and all comments in italics)
To be perfectly honest...we LOVE it when our kids come home for visits. And we also LOVE it when we have long weekends...just us two chickens.
We walked...we talked...we laughed...we cried...we grilled...we ate...we slept...we...well, you get the picture. It was wonderful!!
Typically on long weekends like this I get the itch to bake something special. This weekend was no exception. Even though the eaters were few.
We went out to the Mayfield Farm & Nursery...GREAT STUFF!!! I've purchased many fresh strawberries from Michael Mayfield this season, and was excited to buy some more. My heart was broken when we drove up to the sales room and it was shut tight as a drum with signs on both doors that said, "SOLD OUT TODAY".
So...I had to drop back and punt.
One of Sweet Husband's favorite desserts is "Perfect Chocolate Cake". I happened upon the recipe on the back of the Hershey's Cocoa container one day and Sweet Husband has never been the same since. If I go too many months without making one, he begins dropping hints.
It has been awhile since I baked him a cake...so it did cross my mind. But...no. I wanted to try something new. ...and something chocolate was sounding pretty good.
I got on the internet and began a hunt for something new...something yummy. Where I landed was on a brownie recipe. I know...that sounds so unoriginal and not so special. But, I've never made homemade brownies from scratch. Betty Crocker or Duncan Hines or other various and sundry box-mixes have always assisted me in their own special way.
First I read the recipe to make sure I had all the ingredients. Check.
That's all I needed. While Sweet Husband was grilling our delicious steaks (I NEVER order steak at restaurants ever ever ever. Nobody can grill a steak like Sweet Husband!!!), I whipped up some brownies. They were one-bowl quick. Super easy. And the end result was...
AMAZING!!! Sweet Husband groaned and moaned and declared "THIS RECIPE IS A KEEPER!" They really are very moist and super-chocolaty...especially since they're frosted. Add a glass of milk and you might think you've died and gone to heaven!
Here's the recipe... ENJOY!
Ingredients for "Best Brownies"
Brownies
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup white sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 3 tablespoons butter, softened
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon honey (I didn't have any honey...I just used a little milk for moisture)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup confectioners' sugar
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour an 8 inch square pan.
- In a large bowl, melt 1/2 cup butter. Stir in sugar, eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Stir in 1/3 cup cocoa, 1/2 cup flour, salt, and baking powder. (stirring instead of beating is important...beating the batter will make the brownies more cake-like because it whips the eggs into more of a frenzy :-) )
- Spread batter into prepared pan. (I added walnuts on top of the batter...Sweet Husband like nuts in his brownies)
- Bake in preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Do not overcook.
- For Frosting: Combine 3 tablespoons butter, 3 tablespoons cocoa, 1 tablespoon honey (or a tablespoon or 2 milk), 1 teaspoon vanilla, and 1 cup confectioners' sugar. Stir all ingredients together until creamy.
- Frost brownies while they are still warm.
- Eat brownies while they are still warm. Do. not. skip. this. step. Very important! You'll see!
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