Medical Professionals are AMAZING People!
Especially those who remember that hospitals can be intimidating places for the rest of us.
This morning started at 5:30 for us as we drove to Shriner's Children's Hospital in Tampa. Zach (John and Joy's baby) was to have the first of two surgeries to correct a genetic problem.
We've experienced this with Spencer and Abby, too. But the anxiety is fresh and reaches deep into our hearts each time.
How do you explain to an eight month old that the masked faces, loud noises and needle sticks are necessary? How do you convince him that the pain has purpose? How do you keep yourself from crying when their little eyes are wide with fear and filled with real tears?
Hospitals are intimidating places! Even for those of us who walk the halls on a regular basis for ministry purposes. When it's your own little one, when your family wears the "patient badge," you become the one reaching for comfort.
Thankfully, Zachariah Avery came through the surgery well. He rolled out of recovery with a cast protecting his left foot and extending up to his chubby thigh. The post-op team couldn't evaluate the color of his toes properly. So, a loud saw had to be used to remove an edge of the neon green cast material.
Joy (fierce little mamma that she is) walks and bounces her weeping child. Comforting him with the voice he's known since conception. Her shushing offers him the only peace he can absorb right now.
She slept two brief hours last night; but her confident steps don't tell of her exhaustion. Adrenaline can serve a purpose when necessary.
John takes a turn and speaks lovingly to his son; cheering him on in the first battle of his young life. We hear a modified version of "Jesus Loves Me" coming from a piano in the playroom. John is playing with one hand while cradling Zach with the other.
We live in a broken, imperfect world. And we all experience things that make no sense. Unfair things. Painful things.
But even in these moments, there are rays of light to be found - if we look.
Grace, the lovely Haitian nurse, greeted us first with a big smile and a friendly, "Hello! I remember you from the last time you were here." That was well over a year ago. Her kindness felt like a warm blanket.
Stephanie and Jennifer came into the room with peace and confidence. Too bubbly, and they would have seemed insincere. They're both young ladies and left sweet babies of their own at home. They freely express their empathy for Joy and John.
These people are professionals. They know the fine line between comfort and annoyance. The nurses here carefully watch our faces and take their cues. Amazing!
We'll leave as soon as Zach is cleared. Everyone knows you rest better
in your own environment. Zach will quickly learn to navigate in spite
of the cumbersome cast on his leg. This will be a life moment
remembered more clearly by the adults than by the baby.
Grace, Stephanie, Jennifer, the anesthesiologist, the surgeon...........the team is large. A rare breed of people. They each stop by to comfort, instruct, console, or just exclaim over Zachariah's dimples and engaging smile.
They deal with frightened children and parents every day. Some,
suffering with life-threatening illness. It's easy to see that our
family is receiving the same steady treatment they shower on everyone.
Most, at this hospital, are volunteers!
I'm not sure how Shriner's Hospital manages all they do. But this is one grateful Noni singing the praises of their professionals and their facilities!
Truly Amazing People!
Thursday, March 31, 2016
Friday, March 11, 2016
This 'N That
I have a rather eclectic post for you today. Funny Story. Great Reminder. Cute Poem.
So first, the Funny Story......
Last week I was helping Abby in the bathroom. She hopped up onto the potty and sat looking at me thoughtfully. Her massive blue eyes gazed intently through the lovely pink princess glasses she wears. I smiled when I sensed that a question was forming.
"Noni," wait for it... "Why iz youh heyre wet?" (The word "wet" was the most clear and held added emphasis.)
I glanced into the mirror and swiped at my dry but windblown tresses. True, it was rather messy. But I honestly thought it looked ok.
"Well," I launched into my explanation only to be cut short by the three year old. "Noni has been in the wind and I guess that makes my hair look wet. But it's dry, I......"
"No, Noni!" Her impatience was evident. "Why iz youh heyre WED?"
I burst out laughing. Meagan had just colored my hair the day before and it had a little more red tint than normal. (Maybe a LOT more red tint than normal.)
"Because, Precious. Aunt Meme colored it for me yesterday."
"Oh! I frew." (Which being interpreted meant. "Well, I don't like it that color but Mom has already taught me to just say Oh. And now I'm through with the potty so let's get on with it.") These babies!
Next the Great Reminder.......
Frank has been my pastor for about 35 years now. Which means I've heard him preach well over 20,000 sermons! That's not taking into account the many Bible studies and devotionals and funeral/wedding sermons. Wow! That's a lot of theology expressing!
But he does a great job and still holds my attention after all these years.
Last week was a prime example of his careful attempts to help people understand and retain the main point.
When we came into the sanctuary, we discovered a table that had been positioned on stage. It was draped with a black tablecloth and held some large, ominous-looking object; also draped with a black cloth.
At the appointed time in his sermon, Frank sauntered over to the table all the while talking about the importance of connection. (That's the focus of our church for the month of March.)
He casually removed the top cloth to reveal a huge green industrial fan.
He talked about all the wonderful things a fan of that sort can accomplish. Drying wet carpet. Driving out bad odors. Cooling a large area. The inventor of the fan created it for those specific purposes.
At that point, Frank took a pen from his pocket and demonstrated that he had the ability to twirl the blades of the fan. Standing directly in front of it, you could feel a little breeze but certainly not the powerful wind it was designed to create. And Frank's arm tired quickly trying to imitate the work the fan was supposed to do.
Then, he plugged the fan into the nearby electrical outlet.......and it roared to life! The people sitting on those first few rows got a real taste of how effective the fan could be.
Frank switched it off and made this comparison.
We are all designed to accomplish great things. But we can't do it on our own; we must be connected to our Power Source. When we start getting tired with our Christian service, it's time to check and see if we're working under our own ability again. Taking time to re-connect with the Source of Life (Christ Jesus) will help us roar to life once more.
Now you know why I'm still not bored with his preaching.
Finally, the Cute Poem........
This Sunday will be my turn to bring the message; about Connection. Only my sermon will be about connecting with those around us.
While preparing, I was reminded of a great poem I frequently saw when visiting my dear Asheville friend, Judy. The poem was on a small plaque that graced her kitchen for all the years I was around. It goes like this:
The wise old owl sat in the oak.
The more he saw, the less he spoke.
The less he spoke, the more he heard.
Why aren't we all like this wise old bird?
May your weekend be blessed with laughter and healthy connectedness!
So first, the Funny Story......
Last week I was helping Abby in the bathroom. She hopped up onto the potty and sat looking at me thoughtfully. Her massive blue eyes gazed intently through the lovely pink princess glasses she wears. I smiled when I sensed that a question was forming.
"Noni," wait for it... "Why iz youh heyre wet?" (The word "wet" was the most clear and held added emphasis.)
I glanced into the mirror and swiped at my dry but windblown tresses. True, it was rather messy. But I honestly thought it looked ok.
"Well," I launched into my explanation only to be cut short by the three year old. "Noni has been in the wind and I guess that makes my hair look wet. But it's dry, I......"
"No, Noni!" Her impatience was evident. "Why iz youh heyre WED?"
I burst out laughing. Meagan had just colored my hair the day before and it had a little more red tint than normal. (Maybe a LOT more red tint than normal.)
"Because, Precious. Aunt Meme colored it for me yesterday."
"Oh! I frew." (Which being interpreted meant. "Well, I don't like it that color but Mom has already taught me to just say Oh. And now I'm through with the potty so let's get on with it.") These babies!
Next the Great Reminder.......
Frank has been my pastor for about 35 years now. Which means I've heard him preach well over 20,000 sermons! That's not taking into account the many Bible studies and devotionals and funeral/wedding sermons. Wow! That's a lot of theology expressing!
But he does a great job and still holds my attention after all these years.
Last week was a prime example of his careful attempts to help people understand and retain the main point.
When we came into the sanctuary, we discovered a table that had been positioned on stage. It was draped with a black tablecloth and held some large, ominous-looking object; also draped with a black cloth.
At the appointed time in his sermon, Frank sauntered over to the table all the while talking about the importance of connection. (That's the focus of our church for the month of March.)
He casually removed the top cloth to reveal a huge green industrial fan.
He talked about all the wonderful things a fan of that sort can accomplish. Drying wet carpet. Driving out bad odors. Cooling a large area. The inventor of the fan created it for those specific purposes.
At that point, Frank took a pen from his pocket and demonstrated that he had the ability to twirl the blades of the fan. Standing directly in front of it, you could feel a little breeze but certainly not the powerful wind it was designed to create. And Frank's arm tired quickly trying to imitate the work the fan was supposed to do.
Then, he plugged the fan into the nearby electrical outlet.......and it roared to life! The people sitting on those first few rows got a real taste of how effective the fan could be.
Frank switched it off and made this comparison.
We are all designed to accomplish great things. But we can't do it on our own; we must be connected to our Power Source. When we start getting tired with our Christian service, it's time to check and see if we're working under our own ability again. Taking time to re-connect with the Source of Life (Christ Jesus) will help us roar to life once more.
Now you know why I'm still not bored with his preaching.
Finally, the Cute Poem........
This Sunday will be my turn to bring the message; about Connection. Only my sermon will be about connecting with those around us.
While preparing, I was reminded of a great poem I frequently saw when visiting my dear Asheville friend, Judy. The poem was on a small plaque that graced her kitchen for all the years I was around. It goes like this:
The wise old owl sat in the oak.
The more he saw, the less he spoke.
The less he spoke, the more he heard.
Why aren't we all like this wise old bird?
May your weekend be blessed with laughter and healthy connectedness!
Monday, February 29, 2016
Catching Up
Happy Leap Year Day!
Feb. 29th only rolls around once every four years. Considering that I haven't written in four weeks (might be a new record low for me,) I decided today MUST have a post!
Since my last post, we've had the honor of hosting several people including missionary friends. (We always celebrate missions during the month of love. Seems appropriate.)
I also had the honor of hosting the beautiful widows of our church last Saturday. We celebrated Ms. Ann's 90th birthday! Too much laughter and fun!
Madi has learned to crawl and has even pulled up a couple of times. (The tenacity of that little girl is an inspiration!)
Noah now has a new song that he sings with great gusto. "Ginkle! Ginkle, Yidle tar! mmblha wblhmm flhsmm ARE!" He tends to stop after the Ginkle! Ginkle part and solicit additional singers for the parts he can't quite pronounce. But he can say "ARE" very clearly and jumps on it at the appropriate time.
It was discovered that Spencer needs to wear glasses. He Is THRILLED! Abby has worn them since she was two. Mom and Dad also have presciption eye wear. He wanted to join the cool club.
The grown up looking glasses also meant he needed a new hair style. So, I'm no longer allowed to touch his head. When I try to ruffle his hair now, he ducks and patiently says for the hundredth time, "Look out, Noni. Mom fixes my hair now - remember?" Of course I remember. I just want to hear him say it.
His K-4 teacher texted Joy last week with another cute story about Spencer. (Apparently something she does pretty routinely. The kid provides lots of material.)
They had finished their Bible story for the day and Mrs. Phillips concluded by praying over the children and their day ahead. As soon as she said "Amen," Spencer spoke up. "That was a great prayer, Mrs. Phillips! Good job!"
I guess when both parents, three grandparents and two great-grandparents are ministers you know a thing or two about what constitutes a good prayer.
Abby Grace continues to delight us all with her precious, joyful spirit. At last family dinner, she came over to me and whispered, "Noni, you wanna go fohr a wahk?" The bright blue eyes were twinkling and so inviting, who could resist? So we grabbed our jackets and strolled down the quiet street. She squealed with delight every time I dodged her attempts to "step" on my shadow self.
Yesterday, we had the wonderful privilege of dedicating five new church babies during the service. Just so happened that number five was one Zachariah Avery Schreck! What joy to stand with John's parents and his grandfather who had all flown in from NY for the event. (Grandma Linda and Grandpa John do an amazing job of staying involved in the lives of their grandchildren who all live in FL!)
It's Frank's custom to take each child being dedicated into his arms and to pray blessing over them individually. Such a special and tender moment.
When we got to Zach, Joy whispered urgently, "Don't take him! He just pooped all in my hand!" Her big eyes and his contented, toothless grin made the decision a quick one! Zach would be dedicated to the Lord while in Mommie's arms! Can't make up real life moments like that.
The other big news is that Kristin and Cody have begun the search for a home of their own. They've lived in a tiny apartment trying to save every extra penny since getting married a year and a half ago. Now it seems their efforts to save will soon pay off.
Frank has often said, "Pay now and play later. Or play now and pay later but the price is always higher." Meaning, do the difficult things first; then enjoy the rewards. It appears Meagan and Nathan will be right behind them.
There are a dozen little application type stories I'd love to share but time won't permit today. Just allow me to wish you a day filled with unusual JOY and PEACE! Hopefully, I'll be back on track for March. Thanks for stopping by Embrace the Grace for a quick catch up! Blessings!
Feb. 29th only rolls around once every four years. Considering that I haven't written in four weeks (might be a new record low for me,) I decided today MUST have a post!
Since my last post, we've had the honor of hosting several people including missionary friends. (We always celebrate missions during the month of love. Seems appropriate.)
I also had the honor of hosting the beautiful widows of our church last Saturday. We celebrated Ms. Ann's 90th birthday! Too much laughter and fun!
Madi has learned to crawl and has even pulled up a couple of times. (The tenacity of that little girl is an inspiration!)
Noah now has a new song that he sings with great gusto. "Ginkle! Ginkle, Yidle tar! mmblha wblhmm flhsmm ARE!" He tends to stop after the Ginkle! Ginkle part and solicit additional singers for the parts he can't quite pronounce. But he can say "ARE" very clearly and jumps on it at the appropriate time.
It was discovered that Spencer needs to wear glasses. He Is THRILLED! Abby has worn them since she was two. Mom and Dad also have presciption eye wear. He wanted to join the cool club.
The grown up looking glasses also meant he needed a new hair style. So, I'm no longer allowed to touch his head. When I try to ruffle his hair now, he ducks and patiently says for the hundredth time, "Look out, Noni. Mom fixes my hair now - remember?" Of course I remember. I just want to hear him say it.
His K-4 teacher texted Joy last week with another cute story about Spencer. (Apparently something she does pretty routinely. The kid provides lots of material.)
They had finished their Bible story for the day and Mrs. Phillips concluded by praying over the children and their day ahead. As soon as she said "Amen," Spencer spoke up. "That was a great prayer, Mrs. Phillips! Good job!"
I guess when both parents, three grandparents and two great-grandparents are ministers you know a thing or two about what constitutes a good prayer.
Abby Grace continues to delight us all with her precious, joyful spirit. At last family dinner, she came over to me and whispered, "Noni, you wanna go fohr a wahk?" The bright blue eyes were twinkling and so inviting, who could resist? So we grabbed our jackets and strolled down the quiet street. She squealed with delight every time I dodged her attempts to "step" on my shadow self.
Yesterday, we had the wonderful privilege of dedicating five new church babies during the service. Just so happened that number five was one Zachariah Avery Schreck! What joy to stand with John's parents and his grandfather who had all flown in from NY for the event. (Grandma Linda and Grandpa John do an amazing job of staying involved in the lives of their grandchildren who all live in FL!)
It's Frank's custom to take each child being dedicated into his arms and to pray blessing over them individually. Such a special and tender moment.
When we got to Zach, Joy whispered urgently, "Don't take him! He just pooped all in my hand!" Her big eyes and his contented, toothless grin made the decision a quick one! Zach would be dedicated to the Lord while in Mommie's arms! Can't make up real life moments like that.
The other big news is that Kristin and Cody have begun the search for a home of their own. They've lived in a tiny apartment trying to save every extra penny since getting married a year and a half ago. Now it seems their efforts to save will soon pay off.
Frank has often said, "Pay now and play later. Or play now and pay later but the price is always higher." Meaning, do the difficult things first; then enjoy the rewards. It appears Meagan and Nathan will be right behind them.
There are a dozen little application type stories I'd love to share but time won't permit today. Just allow me to wish you a day filled with unusual JOY and PEACE! Hopefully, I'll be back on track for March. Thanks for stopping by Embrace the Grace for a quick catch up! Blessings!
Friday, January 29, 2016
Winter Wonderland
I'm not traveling to one of the snow-covered northern states to experience a winter wonderland.
I'm not referring to a movie by that title or some literary work.
I'm talking about my own little house in Winter Haven, FL where coming home causes you to wonder what you're going to find when you land there! (Corny, I know! But stick with me.)
Frank and I finished up with a hospital visit yesterday and headed home in the rain just before dusk. He had started coughing and I was just plain tired!
We were both thankful that Meagan had called earlier to say she'd have dinner ready when we got home. Pajamas, hot tea and maybe a lighthearted movie seemed just the ticket.
My prince charming pulled as close to the door as possible in an attempt to keep me dry. I dashed in through the garage; shaking rain off my jacket and hair. When I looked up, I discovered our living room was FULL of people.
It was like a scene from a movie where the camera slowly pans the room revealing face after face the audience doesn't expect to see.
The first surprise was Noah.
Just as I stepped in the door, he turned around to get up and come hug me. Only.......his little bottom was completely exposed!
I guess my face registered the shock of being mooned by my two-year-old grandson. Meagan quickly offered the explanation, "We started working on potty training today. That's why he isn't wearing a diaper."
Spencer tackled me from the side and flashed that trade-mark smile that could light up Broadway. "Hi, Noni! Are you glad to see me?" As though he had to ask!
My ears caught a voice I don't often hear. I looked over and realized that our neighbor from across the street was sitting next to Meagan. "Bet you're surprised to see us here!" Oh, and her husband. And their six month old was grinning at me from his car seat which bobbed on the coffee table.
"Hi, guys!" (Thank heavens for automatic pilot that seasoned pastor's wives can engage at any moment.) I gave a wave and smiled.
It's such a great thing that this young couple has become friends with Meagan and Nathan. They seemed just as comfortable on our couches as my own children - that truly does make me happy.
I spotted Madi rolling on the floor near Meagan's feet. She made her presence known with short bursts of displeasure over being ignored.
Joy walked into the living room and waved. She was just behind Abby who sort of charges into rooms these days. (We're celebrating all Abby's achievements in the potty training realm, too. She has graduated to the status of "Nearly Complete!")
"Noni!" Abby's precious smile and open arms can melt any heart.
"Hi, Mom." Joy's weary voice.
"Hello! Hello, my babies!"
One more scan of the room and I spotted Zachariah waiting patiently in his car seat near the door. Connecting with him meant dropping to my knees so I could be captured by those magnificent blue eyes. The toothless grin, the dimples, the coo of recognition! He made me forget that I was tired and that my knees don't like dropping to the floor anymore.
A second round of greeting took place as soon as Poppa walked into the room.
"We were all just getting ready to leave." Our little neighbor's comment sounded almost apologetic.
"You're fine!" I quickly assured her. "It's raining pretty hard. You don't want to leave right now." I stepped over to tickle the foot of their baby boy. "Hello, Tyce! You're getting soo big!" I glanced over to see his daddy beaming.
"No, we have to go!" Joy began corralling her angels. "I have practice at the church in thirty minutes."
Dad reopened his umbrella and began ferrying little Schreck bodies toward the car.
Richard and Kristen gathered their gift from heaven, slipped back into shoes and made a dash for their house.
I picked up Madi to wave good-bye to them. Somehow, Noah managed a farewell lap around the living room while riding his trike - bare bottom and all!
When the door closed on the last guest, I took a deep breath, smiled and shook my head. Yep, my home is truly a WINTER WONDER LAND!
And I wouldn't have it any other way!
I'm not referring to a movie by that title or some literary work.
I'm talking about my own little house in Winter Haven, FL where coming home causes you to wonder what you're going to find when you land there! (Corny, I know! But stick with me.)
Frank and I finished up with a hospital visit yesterday and headed home in the rain just before dusk. He had started coughing and I was just plain tired!
We were both thankful that Meagan had called earlier to say she'd have dinner ready when we got home. Pajamas, hot tea and maybe a lighthearted movie seemed just the ticket.
My prince charming pulled as close to the door as possible in an attempt to keep me dry. I dashed in through the garage; shaking rain off my jacket and hair. When I looked up, I discovered our living room was FULL of people.
It was like a scene from a movie where the camera slowly pans the room revealing face after face the audience doesn't expect to see.
The first surprise was Noah.
Just as I stepped in the door, he turned around to get up and come hug me. Only.......his little bottom was completely exposed!
I guess my face registered the shock of being mooned by my two-year-old grandson. Meagan quickly offered the explanation, "We started working on potty training today. That's why he isn't wearing a diaper."
Spencer tackled me from the side and flashed that trade-mark smile that could light up Broadway. "Hi, Noni! Are you glad to see me?" As though he had to ask!
My ears caught a voice I don't often hear. I looked over and realized that our neighbor from across the street was sitting next to Meagan. "Bet you're surprised to see us here!" Oh, and her husband. And their six month old was grinning at me from his car seat which bobbed on the coffee table.
"Hi, guys!" (Thank heavens for automatic pilot that seasoned pastor's wives can engage at any moment.) I gave a wave and smiled.
It's such a great thing that this young couple has become friends with Meagan and Nathan. They seemed just as comfortable on our couches as my own children - that truly does make me happy.
I spotted Madi rolling on the floor near Meagan's feet. She made her presence known with short bursts of displeasure over being ignored.
Joy walked into the living room and waved. She was just behind Abby who sort of charges into rooms these days. (We're celebrating all Abby's achievements in the potty training realm, too. She has graduated to the status of "Nearly Complete!")
"Noni!" Abby's precious smile and open arms can melt any heart.
"Hi, Mom." Joy's weary voice.
"Hello! Hello, my babies!"
One more scan of the room and I spotted Zachariah waiting patiently in his car seat near the door. Connecting with him meant dropping to my knees so I could be captured by those magnificent blue eyes. The toothless grin, the dimples, the coo of recognition! He made me forget that I was tired and that my knees don't like dropping to the floor anymore.
A second round of greeting took place as soon as Poppa walked into the room.
"We were all just getting ready to leave." Our little neighbor's comment sounded almost apologetic.
"You're fine!" I quickly assured her. "It's raining pretty hard. You don't want to leave right now." I stepped over to tickle the foot of their baby boy. "Hello, Tyce! You're getting soo big!" I glanced over to see his daddy beaming.
"No, we have to go!" Joy began corralling her angels. "I have practice at the church in thirty minutes."
Dad reopened his umbrella and began ferrying little Schreck bodies toward the car.
Richard and Kristen gathered their gift from heaven, slipped back into shoes and made a dash for their house.
I picked up Madi to wave good-bye to them. Somehow, Noah managed a farewell lap around the living room while riding his trike - bare bottom and all!
When the door closed on the last guest, I took a deep breath, smiled and shook my head. Yep, my home is truly a WINTER WONDER LAND!
And I wouldn't have it any other way!
Monday, January 25, 2016
Winter - FL Style
It's C.O.L.D.!!
Even here in central FL where the sun shines about 95% of the time, it's COLD!
I watched the sunrise this morning snuggled into my prayer chair and layered with blankets. Steaming coffee warmed the mug and my hands. Gracie (the goat-dog) tucked her chubby black and white self in as closely to my hip as possible.
But she just kept shivering so I grabbed Frank's Carolina blanket and draped it over her trembling little frame. Only then was she able to settled in and give the deep contented sigh of a canine in a state of perfect joy! That dog is rotten!
Frank had to scrape the windows of his car before he could leave this morning. That happens about once every two years. We've all been scrambling to find jackets and boots and T-shirts that layer well. I have now rotated twice through all THREE of the turtle neck sweaters I own. That's actually somewhat of a record.
The sandals we normally wear seem to smirk at us from their spot on the self. This weather calls for SOCKS! (I only have two pair that are "boot appropriate." Quite a change from my NC days.)
But you won't hear me complaining!
I love the snap of cold. I do not miss the mosquitoes nor the flies. I love the steaming soup and cups of hot chocolate. I do not miss running the air conditioner 24/7. I love jumping in the bed and sticking my cold feet on Frank's warm leg! (Definitely his least favorite part of winter!)
Now, I'm well aware of the terrible blizzard that has paralyzed the eastern half of the United States. And I have great empathy for those shoveling snow and trying to manage this weather without electricity.
But I also know how things happened for the vast majority of you as soon as this snow was predicted. There is a "Snow Days Protocol" that must be followed..........
My sister (who still lives in NC) said they could live on French toast for days if necessary!
It's true. Our temperature will make it into the 60's around here today. And yes, people are dressed as though we've all been transported to Alaska.
The lady who checked me out at the grocery story yesterday was wearing gloves! She moved here from Ohio five years ago and is certain that her blood has thinned. This causes her to not tolerate our cold weather well, at all!
I guess it's all relative, right?
I certainly hope you have the privilege of staying near hearth and home until this weather passes!
Thanks again for your patience with my limited postings. This week I begin meeting with a fantastic group of college women. I can't wait to hear their perspective on the topics I want to write about!
Even here in central FL where the sun shines about 95% of the time, it's COLD!
I watched the sunrise this morning snuggled into my prayer chair and layered with blankets. Steaming coffee warmed the mug and my hands. Gracie (the goat-dog) tucked her chubby black and white self in as closely to my hip as possible.
But she just kept shivering so I grabbed Frank's Carolina blanket and draped it over her trembling little frame. Only then was she able to settled in and give the deep contented sigh of a canine in a state of perfect joy! That dog is rotten!
Frank had to scrape the windows of his car before he could leave this morning. That happens about once every two years. We've all been scrambling to find jackets and boots and T-shirts that layer well. I have now rotated twice through all THREE of the turtle neck sweaters I own. That's actually somewhat of a record.
The sandals we normally wear seem to smirk at us from their spot on the self. This weather calls for SOCKS! (I only have two pair that are "boot appropriate." Quite a change from my NC days.)
But you won't hear me complaining!
I love the snap of cold. I do not miss the mosquitoes nor the flies. I love the steaming soup and cups of hot chocolate. I do not miss running the air conditioner 24/7. I love jumping in the bed and sticking my cold feet on Frank's warm leg! (Definitely his least favorite part of winter!)
Now, I'm well aware of the terrible blizzard that has paralyzed the eastern half of the United States. And I have great empathy for those shoveling snow and trying to manage this weather without electricity.
But I also know how things happened for the vast majority of you as soon as this snow was predicted. There is a "Snow Days Protocol" that must be followed..........
- Mad dash to the grocery store.
- Rushing directly to the bread aisle and picking up one loaf each of pumpernickel and rye because that's all that's left.
- Milk!
- Eggs!
- Popcorn!
- Chocolate! The essential food items for making it through any blizzard-type conditions.
My sister (who still lives in NC) said they could live on French toast for days if necessary!
It's true. Our temperature will make it into the 60's around here today. And yes, people are dressed as though we've all been transported to Alaska.
The lady who checked me out at the grocery story yesterday was wearing gloves! She moved here from Ohio five years ago and is certain that her blood has thinned. This causes her to not tolerate our cold weather well, at all!
I guess it's all relative, right?
I certainly hope you have the privilege of staying near hearth and home until this weather passes!
Thanks again for your patience with my limited postings. This week I begin meeting with a fantastic group of college women. I can't wait to hear their perspective on the topics I want to write about!
Thursday, December 31, 2015
Christmas Truth
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! All in one!
First, some good news - the camel and Joseph did find their way back to the plastic nativity set before Christmas Eve. However, I also discovered a Palm Tree went missing after our evening with the bigger grandchildren. No amount of creative searching seemed to reveal its whereabouts.
Until today.......
The Palm Tree turned up. It was literally turned upside down and stuffed.......in the branches of my Christmas Tree! Ohhh! Life with little boys! I'm learning!
So once again the nativity is complete. Waiting patiently for the excitement we'll share on our Christmas day - January 16th. Everyone will finally be home. Of course, my Christmas shopping is almost over and I'm now wondering if I'll be able to wait for them to open the gifts we've purchased!
Since my last post we've lived a lot of Christmas Joy:
However, finding the palm tree (not sure if it was placed there intentionally or simply lodged there after some little guy launched it) brought a thought to mind.
The Truth of Christmas is this: It's never been about Perfection.
A virgin carried the Christ child? (Please remember that the angel only appeared to Mary and Joseph explaining that this was God's plan. Not to her parents. Not to his parents. Not to the village gossips.) The King of Glory was born in a stinky stable? Shepherds (the lowest of that society) were first to visit him? His first lullabies were accompanied by the bleating of sheep? God Almighty was in the Middle of it all?
That picture is anything BUT perfect!
Yet we know from the hundreds of prophecies fulfilled in that one picture that everything about it was intentional. And for this little grandmother gazing on the brightly colored, plastic creche a truth comes in to focus. I realize that even God's method of sending His son into this world was meant to instruct us.
Life has never been about Perfection!
Life is filled with struggle. Disappointments. Betrayals. Loss. Pain. Some circumstances really stink, just like that stable. But in the middle of all that imperfection we find the quiet peace of knowing God has not left us alone. God Almighty is right in the middle of it all - with us!
Emmanuel, God With Us!
Somehow, accepting this truth - that life is imperfect but He is with us in it, brings Hope! It calms my heart and allows me to breathe in Peace. Suddenly Joy becomes my focus instead of fear or sorrow. I'm free to love; genuinely!
As you mark the dawning of yet another new year, may I encourage you to embrace this truth? Life is not perfect - but a perfect heavenly Father has promised to walk through life with us. He is simply waiting for your invitation.
Make a conscious choice to invite Him on your journey through 2016. I can assure you that the imperfect parts of your life will make a little more sense. And the truly perfect parts of your life will suddenly have an added richness you could never have imagined.
My prayer for you? May you be blessed with the Truth, Joy, and Peace of a Perfectly Imperfect walk this year!
BLESSINGS!
First, some good news - the camel and Joseph did find their way back to the plastic nativity set before Christmas Eve. However, I also discovered a Palm Tree went missing after our evening with the bigger grandchildren. No amount of creative searching seemed to reveal its whereabouts.
Until today.......
The Palm Tree turned up. It was literally turned upside down and stuffed.......in the branches of my Christmas Tree! Ohhh! Life with little boys! I'm learning!
So once again the nativity is complete. Waiting patiently for the excitement we'll share on our Christmas day - January 16th. Everyone will finally be home. Of course, my Christmas shopping is almost over and I'm now wondering if I'll be able to wait for them to open the gifts we've purchased!
Since my last post we've lived a lot of Christmas Joy:
- Hosted a Church Christmas party for 120 complete with a community jazz band.
- Enjoyed our first ever school Christmas play with Spencer. (Directed by Meagan and Kristin)
- Celebrated with a friend whose battle with cancer is succeeding!
- Hosted the staff and church board at our home.
- Helped Meagan and Nathan get on the road to NC. (Realized just as they were leaving that Meagan had not colored my hair! Oh well, too late now!)
- Marked Meagan's birthday long distance.
- Helped get Joy and John on the road to NY.
- Enjoyed a fabulous Christmas Eve service.
- Left for NC at 6 AM Christmas morning. Four lovely days with family.
- Impossibly long drive back home.
- Celebrated 36 years of marriage to my sweetheart just yesterday.
However, finding the palm tree (not sure if it was placed there intentionally or simply lodged there after some little guy launched it) brought a thought to mind.
The Truth of Christmas is this: It's never been about Perfection.
A virgin carried the Christ child? (Please remember that the angel only appeared to Mary and Joseph explaining that this was God's plan. Not to her parents. Not to his parents. Not to the village gossips.) The King of Glory was born in a stinky stable? Shepherds (the lowest of that society) were first to visit him? His first lullabies were accompanied by the bleating of sheep? God Almighty was in the Middle of it all?
That picture is anything BUT perfect!
Yet we know from the hundreds of prophecies fulfilled in that one picture that everything about it was intentional. And for this little grandmother gazing on the brightly colored, plastic creche a truth comes in to focus. I realize that even God's method of sending His son into this world was meant to instruct us.
Life has never been about Perfection!
Life is filled with struggle. Disappointments. Betrayals. Loss. Pain. Some circumstances really stink, just like that stable. But in the middle of all that imperfection we find the quiet peace of knowing God has not left us alone. God Almighty is right in the middle of it all - with us!
Emmanuel, God With Us!
Somehow, accepting this truth - that life is imperfect but He is with us in it, brings Hope! It calms my heart and allows me to breathe in Peace. Suddenly Joy becomes my focus instead of fear or sorrow. I'm free to love; genuinely!
As you mark the dawning of yet another new year, may I encourage you to embrace this truth? Life is not perfect - but a perfect heavenly Father has promised to walk through life with us. He is simply waiting for your invitation.
Make a conscious choice to invite Him on your journey through 2016. I can assure you that the imperfect parts of your life will make a little more sense. And the truly perfect parts of your life will suddenly have an added richness you could never have imagined.
My prayer for you? May you be blessed with the Truth, Joy, and Peace of a Perfectly Imperfect walk this year!
BLESSINGS!
Monday, December 14, 2015
Christmas (New) Traditions
Only four short weeks until Christmas Day! Isn't it exciting?!!
(Some of you just glanced up at the posting date to see if this is from last year. Some of you simply shook your head in a pitying sort of way, "She's finally lost it!" And others had to go back and read the opening line again to see what I'm talking about.)
"It's Eleven Days, Sheri! December 25th is only eleven days away!"
You're right. But Christmas Day for the Hawley/Schreck/Smith/McGhee Clan will take place four weeks from now on January 16th. That's when we'll finally have everyone back in town and nothing on the church calendar.
Odd, I know. But it's just how we manage the chaos of our lives. Smiths in North Carolina. Schrecks in New York. McGhees making the rounds in Polk County.
Usually, I'm just fine with that. But this year, we have grandchildren who know a lot more about what's going on. Being around them is like celebrating Christmas for the very first time.
That's why Frank and I decided to try out a New Christmas Tradition. (I realize that it takes a few years for an activity to actually qualify for "tradition," but ya gotta start somewhere!)
It has fallen my lot to come up with many of the activities we now call "Tradition." Through the years, I've pitched my ideas to Frank and he (the more creative one) has helped them become reality.
Some of those ideas we had to let fall by the wayside because they proved pretty much impossible to implement. But don't let failure stop you from trying new things with your family. If it turns into a fiasco, slap the title "Made a Memory" on that photo and roll on to the next idea!
(There is a marvelous book by Gloria Gaither entitled Making Memories. A great resource for those of us who want tradition but didn't inherit it or aren't so creative. Don't have an idea? Borrow one!)
So, back to our new tradition testing.
My dear friend, Deborah Stephens, had shared an idea with me years ago when her grandson was just three. She chose a favorite kids' movie and made an evening of it with pizza and popcorn and pj's and hot chocolate.
I wanted to adopt her idea but I knew our oldest three would never sit still long enough for an entire movie. (Spencer is 4; Abby is 3; Noah is 2) So I pulled in the creative part of our marriage for help.
My little dream quickly escalated with Frank's help. We chose a shorter video, added some outside time, a craft and food. The parents were notified of our plan. And on the designated day, Noni and Poppa prepared by...........taking a nap!
We had everything in place before we drove to pick them up at John and Joy's house. The evening was open only to Noni, Poppa and the three oldest babies. Must confess, I was so excited!
Poppa directed the outdoor part (sidewalk chalk on our driveway) while I put pizza in the oven. You'll be happy to know that oranges and grapes rounded out my menu.
They came inside to eat and that's when I first caught on to what I had gotten myself into. The two boys spotted the nativity set we'd positioned on the coffee table. Made for chubby hands. Hard plastic to weather lots of rearranging. Bright colors for interest.
Please remember that I did not raise little boys. I raised three, mostly passive, little girls.
I didn't know that anything in the hands of a little boy, immediately becomes a weapon. From the kitchen I could hear Spencer and Noah bombing the stable by using the camel, and two of the wise men. At first I just reminded myself that this set is made for children to play with.
But when they began backing up from the table and trying to see who could hit Baby Jesus with the angel, I couldn't take it anymore. "Okay, boys! Let's stop that and come wash your hands. Noah, put the donkey and cart back on the table. No, Abby. You can't ride on the toy cart. Yes, I see that your toe fits. But you still can't ride it. Spencer, Joseph isn't in an airplane. He walked to Bethlehem."
And so it went!
I found out that Noah will NOT eat warm pizza. It has to be room temperature. Abby will stuff her mouth completely full if you don't cut the pieces just right. And Spencer only likes the cheese. He doesn't care for pizza crust. At all!
Fortunately, they cleaned out both bowls of fruit without chocking. So, I counted it a win and we moved on.
Next on the agenda was gingerbread house decorating. (Because Poppa and I didn't trust our own skills, we assembled all four houses the night before. Assembly included one decorated house so the kids knew the objective.)
The squeals of delight as we poured all the brightly colored candies on the table were magnificent!
Abby decorated her house systematically. Collecting all the items she planned to use, then commencing to embellish the small brown house. Spencer took the "More is More" approach. He covered nearly every inch of his personal real estate. Noah mostly ate everything we tried adding to his humble abode.
After hands and mouths were scrubbed clean, we put them on the couch and announced we had an early present for each one. More squealing! More grinning by Noni and Poppa!
On our signal, they tore into the wrapped packages and quickly discovered that each had a new pair of Christmas pajamas inside. A big moose on Noah's pjs said, "Merry Chrismoose!" Pink and sparkly pjs (of course) for Abby. Red and black checked "big boy" pjs for Spencer.
Noah danced around a minute then starting pulling at his clothes wanting to change. Just as we hoped! Soon all three were sporting their new Christmas pajamas. By this time, the sugar had hit and we needed a counter for it quickly.
Poppa got the cartoon ready and I delivered big bowls of popcorn and cups of decaffeinated hot tea for everyone. They sat for almost the entire video. Snuggled up with either Poppa or Noni. Munching the popcorn. "Accidentally" dropping pieces for Gracie.
By the time the video ended, we were ready to pack them up and take them back to John and Joy's house. Locating shoes and bears and passies for all three was a chore. Wrangling little bodies while attempting to put on the shoes was exhausting! And WHO created the latches on those car seats?! A rocket scientist??!!
Frank and I drove home in relative silence. I straightened the nativity only to discover that Joseph and the camel are A.W.O.L. The gingerbread houses will be on display tonight for family dinner but probably aren't edible any longer.
I think we may have a new tradition. And the evening definitely merited our benchmark phrase, "A lovely time was had by all!"
(Some of you just glanced up at the posting date to see if this is from last year. Some of you simply shook your head in a pitying sort of way, "She's finally lost it!" And others had to go back and read the opening line again to see what I'm talking about.)
"It's Eleven Days, Sheri! December 25th is only eleven days away!"
You're right. But Christmas Day for the Hawley/Schreck/Smith/McGhee Clan will take place four weeks from now on January 16th. That's when we'll finally have everyone back in town and nothing on the church calendar.
Odd, I know. But it's just how we manage the chaos of our lives. Smiths in North Carolina. Schrecks in New York. McGhees making the rounds in Polk County.
Usually, I'm just fine with that. But this year, we have grandchildren who know a lot more about what's going on. Being around them is like celebrating Christmas for the very first time.
That's why Frank and I decided to try out a New Christmas Tradition. (I realize that it takes a few years for an activity to actually qualify for "tradition," but ya gotta start somewhere!)
It has fallen my lot to come up with many of the activities we now call "Tradition." Through the years, I've pitched my ideas to Frank and he (the more creative one) has helped them become reality.
Some of those ideas we had to let fall by the wayside because they proved pretty much impossible to implement. But don't let failure stop you from trying new things with your family. If it turns into a fiasco, slap the title "Made a Memory" on that photo and roll on to the next idea!
(There is a marvelous book by Gloria Gaither entitled Making Memories. A great resource for those of us who want tradition but didn't inherit it or aren't so creative. Don't have an idea? Borrow one!)
So, back to our new tradition testing.
My dear friend, Deborah Stephens, had shared an idea with me years ago when her grandson was just three. She chose a favorite kids' movie and made an evening of it with pizza and popcorn and pj's and hot chocolate.
I wanted to adopt her idea but I knew our oldest three would never sit still long enough for an entire movie. (Spencer is 4; Abby is 3; Noah is 2) So I pulled in the creative part of our marriage for help.
My little dream quickly escalated with Frank's help. We chose a shorter video, added some outside time, a craft and food. The parents were notified of our plan. And on the designated day, Noni and Poppa prepared by...........taking a nap!
We had everything in place before we drove to pick them up at John and Joy's house. The evening was open only to Noni, Poppa and the three oldest babies. Must confess, I was so excited!
Poppa directed the outdoor part (sidewalk chalk on our driveway) while I put pizza in the oven. You'll be happy to know that oranges and grapes rounded out my menu.
They came inside to eat and that's when I first caught on to what I had gotten myself into. The two boys spotted the nativity set we'd positioned on the coffee table. Made for chubby hands. Hard plastic to weather lots of rearranging. Bright colors for interest.
Please remember that I did not raise little boys. I raised three, mostly passive, little girls.
I didn't know that anything in the hands of a little boy, immediately becomes a weapon. From the kitchen I could hear Spencer and Noah bombing the stable by using the camel, and two of the wise men. At first I just reminded myself that this set is made for children to play with.
But when they began backing up from the table and trying to see who could hit Baby Jesus with the angel, I couldn't take it anymore. "Okay, boys! Let's stop that and come wash your hands. Noah, put the donkey and cart back on the table. No, Abby. You can't ride on the toy cart. Yes, I see that your toe fits. But you still can't ride it. Spencer, Joseph isn't in an airplane. He walked to Bethlehem."
And so it went!
I found out that Noah will NOT eat warm pizza. It has to be room temperature. Abby will stuff her mouth completely full if you don't cut the pieces just right. And Spencer only likes the cheese. He doesn't care for pizza crust. At all!
Fortunately, they cleaned out both bowls of fruit without chocking. So, I counted it a win and we moved on.
Next on the agenda was gingerbread house decorating. (Because Poppa and I didn't trust our own skills, we assembled all four houses the night before. Assembly included one decorated house so the kids knew the objective.)
The squeals of delight as we poured all the brightly colored candies on the table were magnificent!
Abby decorated her house systematically. Collecting all the items she planned to use, then commencing to embellish the small brown house. Spencer took the "More is More" approach. He covered nearly every inch of his personal real estate. Noah mostly ate everything we tried adding to his humble abode.
After hands and mouths were scrubbed clean, we put them on the couch and announced we had an early present for each one. More squealing! More grinning by Noni and Poppa!
On our signal, they tore into the wrapped packages and quickly discovered that each had a new pair of Christmas pajamas inside. A big moose on Noah's pjs said, "Merry Chrismoose!" Pink and sparkly pjs (of course) for Abby. Red and black checked "big boy" pjs for Spencer.
Noah danced around a minute then starting pulling at his clothes wanting to change. Just as we hoped! Soon all three were sporting their new Christmas pajamas. By this time, the sugar had hit and we needed a counter for it quickly.
Poppa got the cartoon ready and I delivered big bowls of popcorn and cups of decaffeinated hot tea for everyone. They sat for almost the entire video. Snuggled up with either Poppa or Noni. Munching the popcorn. "Accidentally" dropping pieces for Gracie.
By the time the video ended, we were ready to pack them up and take them back to John and Joy's house. Locating shoes and bears and passies for all three was a chore. Wrangling little bodies while attempting to put on the shoes was exhausting! And WHO created the latches on those car seats?! A rocket scientist??!!
Frank and I drove home in relative silence. I straightened the nativity only to discover that Joseph and the camel are A.W.O.L. The gingerbread houses will be on display tonight for family dinner but probably aren't edible any longer.
I think we may have a new tradition. And the evening definitely merited our benchmark phrase, "A lovely time was had by all!"
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