DancingMogs

Unbelievable Damage

2008-02-07T09:36:00.000-05:00

On Tuesday night, we got a call from one of our youth staff. She was calling to ask us to pray for the tornado that had just hit Union. Thankfully, she had just received a call from her daughter, Bonnie letting her know that she was safe. We had finished our bible study and just before everyone left we were able to pray for the students and teachers and parents involved. I just got a moment to check online and see the damage. It is astounding. Apparently 80% of the student housing is destroyed.
Union University Tornado Pictures
Pray.

Homeschooling questions?

2008-01-07T11:01:00.000-05:00

I am looking for any information… insight… advice you can give me on homeschooling?

Where do you get your material?
How much does it cost? (for budgeting)
How have you structured your day w/ all your children?
What have you found to be most encouraging about homeschooling?
What have you found the most challenging?
What have you learned the most?
Any other things I should know?

Humble reflections on Ex 28

2008-01-01T23:47:00.000-05:00

Exodus 28:29
So Aaron shall bear the names of the sons of Israel in the breastpiece of judgment on his heart, when he goes into the Holy Place, to bring them to regular remembrance before the Lord.

Reading about the installation of the great high priest of Israel captivated me. Even though it describes in detail what the high priest should wear... from colors to size to thread to adornments, I was most captured by the beautiful picture that this detail draws out. How the Sons of Israel are represented by beautiful gems. These brilliant gems are secured to breastpiece that the high priest wears when going into the Holy Place. This breastpiece hangs heavy on his heart so that it will be a continual remembrance of the sons of Israel before the Holy Lord.
What a picture of how my Great Holy High Priest the Lord Jesus has us the sons of Israel.... the offspring of Abraham because of faith, hanging on his heart. He continually remembers his beautiful gems in the Holy Place intercedes for His people.
How glorious are His ways!

Exciting New Blog

2007-11-16T11:05:00.000-05:00

I just came across an exciting new blog, Mommy Speech Therapy . She has several posts on helping kids with different sound. The post on the TH sound is what caugh my attention. This is the sound that Gabi struggles with the most. I'm excited to work with her suggestions. I haven't been very attentive to her speaking, so I'm sure any effort on my side will probably help. We will see.

Seven kids... quiet ... too good to be true.

2007-10-26T13:00:00.000-05:00

We had an extra 3 kids join us this morning. It was surprisingly quiet most of the morning. I had to do very little mediating among the older kids which was a pleasant delight. I think I had my expectations set correctly with the two year old girls... They are just learning how to share. The boys played in Sam's room so well that I was able to have all the girls help me make Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. They enjoyed measuring, mixing and cracking the eggs. In the meantime, I was quite impressed at how well the 4 year old boys were playing together. They were diligently working... with the toy saw and a cardboard box. I was pleased that I didn't need to break up fights or try to get these 2 stubborn boys to share. After a while, they all went outside to swing on our tree rope. After our friends left, I went into the room where the boys had been playing. I notice they had made a rope out of some packing tape and tied all of their tools to the bunk bed. Then I noticed they had found my tripod and had taken it apart. Then they proceed to stab the wall over and over again... so now there are little holes all over this one section of the wall. I thought the quiet was a little too good to be true.

Birthday Fun Survey

2007-10-15T21:02:00.000-05:00

I surveyed Grandma and Grandpa Thiel and the grandkids about the birthday party we had for all the fall birthdays. Here are the results:

What was the best part you liked about the birthday party?

Grandpa answered:

"Being here in Vermont with us together."

Grandma answered:

"The same.. being here together."

Gabriela answered:

"Making the balloons and putting the balloons on the poster and eating cake."

Madeline answered:

"Dressing up and wearing the tutu."

Sam answered:

"Opening presents"

Juliana answered:

"M&M's"

Eleanor answered:

"M&M's"

Jeremiah:

slept through the party

While cooking...

2007-10-03T20:30:00.000-05:00

While I was baking a delicious biscotti recipe tonight I thought I would try to get in some reading. I just started the diaries of David Brainerd. I love reading missionary bios. I have heard that David Brainerd's writings have inspired many to the mission field.

My friend told me to post this picture of my re-engineering of this cardboard box. It is nothing special.. but it works. Here it is.

I might as well post the recipe too.. A friend gave me one the other day and I LOVED IT!

Chocolate Chip Biscotti
1/2 C olive oil
1 C sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
2 C flour
2 tsp baking powder
pinch of salt
1 C mini chocolate chips
1. Cream oil with sugar, beat in the eggs, then mix the vanilla. Add sifted flour and then the rest of the dry ingredients. Mix well and then mix in the chocolate chips.
2. Form 2 loaves of flat logs. Dough will be sticky. (You may need to add some flour to handle the dough).
3. Bake loaves @ 375 for 15 minutes, then 350 for 30 minutes.
4. Slice the logs, turn the logs on their side and bake for 5 minutes.
5. Store in an airtight container or freeze.

First Soccer Game

2007-09-07T20:34:00.000-05:00

What a fun night. After packing up the 4 kids... loading up dinner, drinks & our game necessities, we were able to make it downtown to watch the UMass vs UVM game.

Once we got there we were eagerly searching for Stu's jersey.. #17. We scooted around the field so that we might get a better chance to see him. It worked and just in time. We took the picture, wished him luck and gave him a box of chocolate chip cookies the kids and I made for him. He went in the game not much longer after we took this picture.

So we went back up to the bleachers and started cheering. The funniest thing was trying to get the Sam and Gabi to either say.. "Go Stu"... which came out more like "Go Sto" or "Go Amick" which they heard and repeated as "Go Nick". It was great to see Him play.. and Sam was facinated at all the big boys running around.

We didn't get to watch till the end (it went into overtime). But I'm glad to say UMass Won. (2-1)

Check out UMass News to read a play by play of the action.

Little Lessons...

2007-08-08T16:04:00.000-05:00

God was so kind to teach Gabi & Sam a great lesson today. They went to their cousins house for lunch. When, I came over to pick them up, I brought a book for my niece as a gift. Well, this made Gabi & Sam very jealous and whiny about not getting a gift. What a moment. Their heart was totally exposed. I sat them down on the spot and reminded them what the bible says:

"It is better to give than to recieve." Acts 20:35

And wouldn’t you know when we got back home we found a gift on our front porch. The kids were so excited. We then talked about how excited Madeline must have felt to receive the book today. We talked about how we don't need to covet things because the Lord supplies all we need and even beyond. I told them that God was so kind to teach you this lesson about giving... and coveting.

Our prayer for these little ones, is that they would get a new heart by faith in Christ. That they would come to love the commands of the Lord and obey them. That they would live their life... loving people more that things, just as Jesus did.

Our New Baby Boy!

2007-07-31T14:55:00.000-05:00

Jeremiah James

July 11, 2007

The Lord has blessed us with another healthy child. I the midst of a crazy summer and intense week. Jeremiah was born. With my due date during the week our annual Youth Retreat, we knew we were in for a roller coaster of a ride. But the Lord was kind to us in answering our little prayers. Steve was able to drive back up (1.5 hrs away) from the campground with plenty of time to take me to the hospital to have our fourth baby. Camp ran fine with an assistant director. And he was also able to return to the closing night of camp.

What a labor of Love this week was for so many, 30 adults labored over the souls of 95 kids. As my labor was hard and challenging so to was that of these adults. But ... What a beautiful sight and sound it was to hear the same day that Jeremiah was born that a couple teenagers from our youth group were Born to God and came to Faith.

Praise God! Glory to His Name!

The cause of the pause...

2007-05-08T13:47:00.000-05:00

I have taken quite a pause from writing on my DancingMogs site because we are expecting our 4th child. The first trimester was as expected all about SURVIVAL. Being exhausted and sick with 3 little ones in the midst of winter makes home life about survival. Praise God that he sustained me through those 3 months. Since the turn of the year, it has been quite busy due to Steve taking 2 seminary classes instead of just 1. I am excited to say that this is finals week for him... Yippie! I have 9 weeks left till my due date then I'm sure I will be ready for another pause in the writing. Asi es la vida. That is life.

Finally Four

2006-10-26T22:10:00.000-05:00

Well, she is finally four. We had a wonderful little gathering of friends for a girls only dress up tea party. Sam was extremely dissapointed mainly because he knew we were going to have cake without him. My friend and I exchanged her girl for my son which worked out perfectly to get the only boy out of the house. The girls played dress up, tiara crafting and tea party with other little games along the way. I think the highlight was that everyone got to pour their own "tea" (actually it was water). It was sweet to see them all play so nicely together. What fun memories.

To love with the Gospel

2006-10-12T20:47:00.000-05:00

"To claim to be loving people and not share the Gospel is a contradiction."
-John Piper
(From the Sermon: The Present Effects of the Trembling at the Wrath of God" March 6, 2006)

One Year Photos

2006-09-30T20:53:00.000-05:00

It amazes me how quickly one year passes. I was inspired by my sister in-law who is always so good about keeping us current with pictures. Unfortunately, I am not wired this way. So my picture frames and the grandparent's picture frames always have very out of date pictures (I still have a photo of Gabi at age 2 and she will be 4 in 2 weeks.)

Here is my September baby. If I had only one word to describe this little girl it would be PLEASANT. She is content with whatever the situation, place or timing. The Lord has been especially kind to us in giving her and her sweet demeanor to us. Hope you enjoy the pictures!

Afternoon with Cousins.

2006-09-05T21:36:00.000-05:00

It is always a treat to have these Vermont cousins together. Our playtime comes and goes in waves, just like the rest of life. Well, last week during a Carey's dentist appointment, we got to spend sometime exploring the church grounds (or "forest" as the kids called it.. it's more like weeds.) It was fun to see them just roam... and not get into trouble because they are getting too far or too close to the road.. It is so sweet to see them interact. I posted a couple of favorite pictures that I hope to get enlarged into at least a 5x7... possibly bigger.. Can you guess which ones? Here they are:

WE TOOK THIS PICTURE FOR YOU... GRANDMA!

Team Turtlefeet at the Richmond Race

2006-08-31T22:32:00.000-05:00

Let me introduce Team Turtlefeet. Our Tuesday and Thursday morning track time showing has been around 20-30 people (includes kids). This has been just a fun time for everyone. It is open to anyone who would like to join us. We have walkers, runners, trikers, bikers, watchers and icepop eaters. It is such a treat to be able to run and monitor the kids the entire time.. either riding their bike around track, or playing in the long jump sand pit. They have lots of space, lots of friends and lots of fun. The attending ladies have been all ages and phases of life. It is fun to excerise together and chat or pray while we walk... (only some can talk and run at the same time.. I cannot.) It is mainly about our encouraging our relationships with each other... and in the process exercising (otherwise we could do the "exercising" on our own). As a goal to help us keep challeging ourselves to increase mileage (either in running or walking). Some decided to run in some races together. This past Saturday was our second. It was so fun to see Team Turtlefeet well represented. We had 9 racers (runners and walkers), 5 adults in the audience and 8 children cheer'ers. I think everyone accomplished their goals during this race... which is a bonus. But really the treat is that we did it together.

Goal Accomplished. Six Flags Survived.

2006-08-24T13:55:00.000-05:00

Each youth group year, we set a challege before the students. This challege is for them to memorize the year's verses which correspond to the particular theme or book we study throughout the year. It has been unbelieveablely awesome in my own life to see how the process of hiding God's Word in my heart and mind can be so useful. It is a mystery how the Lord uses scripture that is committed to memory to nurture us in our walk of faith. The Lord has used this hidden word to rebuke me, comfort me, help me worship Him, pray for others and share the gospel. I'm sure there are many other ways , but all of these have been sweet to see the Lord use.

As for the students, our desire is that they persevere in scripture memory, so they can see (with time & diligence) how the Lord uses His Word. But knowing our short attention span we have an added incentive, we have hold out a fun trip to Six Flags New England to those who complete and can recite each verse by the end of the school year.
This year we had several students that accomplished this goal. Unfortunately, the date didn't work for everyone, so we took a subset of this students. Here is are some pictures of just some of the fun we had!

Question?

2006-08-22T14:32:00.000-05:00

Who do you think within the scriptures displays the best visual of humility to God? And Why?? Join our discussion
(This goes with out saying but nonetheless it must be said... Our Lord is the ultimate display of all things He has called us to.)

To My Mother

2006-08-15T23:03:00.000-05:00

To A Mother.. Who lives showing us that life is about people not about things.

To A Mother.. Who loves with every bit of her being.

To A Mother.. Who creatively writes, a talent that has been passed on..

To A Mother.. That enjoys dancing, a joy that has infected others.

To A Mother.. Who can create beautiful things with her hands, a gift that will bless another trio (or maybe foursome we'll see in October) of girls.

To A Mother.. Who taught us not only with words but by her life.

To A Mother.. Who enjoys being a Momo to a bunch of girls.. and one lone boy.

To My Mother.. I hope to be like you when I am your age.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!

Bunk Bed Play

2006-08-13T22:07:00.000-05:00

The kids had a great time.. when Daddy surprised their play by climbing up to the top bunk to talk, read and tell stories. Here is the kodak moment.

Tea Time Bible Study Update

2006-08-10T22:03:00.000-05:00

We have had a wonderful time during our Tea Time Bible Study. The discussions have been a sweet highlight to my day. Seeing girls interact with the scriptures on the truth of the gospel, what could be better?

My theme to this gospel bible study has been "CROSSROADS". We have talked about every time the gospel has been preached or told to them they come to a crossroad.. Do they accept and follow Christ? Or do they push it off or deny the offer of the gospel?
My continued prayer is that the girls would hear the beckoning call of Christ, giving up their lives in this world and following the precious path that our Lord walked Himself.

John 12:24-26 Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. If anyone serves me, he must follow me; and where I am, there will my servant be also. If anyone serves me, the Father will honor him.

Tea Time Prayer Request...

2006-07-25T21:45:00.000-05:00

With the Youth Retreat over now, I wanted to keep the momentum going for the high school girls. The theme verse for the retreat was:

1 John 2:15-17
Do not love the world nor the things in the world If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world. The world is passing away, and also its lusts; but the one who does the will of God lives forever.

The program for the retreat was organized well:

Morning - Quiet time bible study prep followed by study discussion.
Afternoon - friendship building, fun in the water or games or service projects.
Evening - testimonies by different people and sermons
Late - reflection/ chatting / games

It seems as though the kids really connected and understood the topics and could apply the messages very easily. It was so encouraging to hear my bible study girls talk about seeing areas of world's influence in their lives both in believers and unbelievers. I am hoping with the Tea Time Bible Study, that I am starting this week, will help to continue to connect some of the dots for the girls.

Please pray for our Thursday Tea Times in the next 4 weeks.
Pray that the girls would be humbled by the Word of God.
Pray that many of the girls would be humbled in their understanding of who they are before God.
Pray that many would long and urn to know more our crucified and risen Lord.
Pray the girls would strive after God more than they strive after other things.

Thanks for praying.

Trip Memories - Our Warm Welcome

2006-06-29T13:24:00.000-05:00

Our Warm Welcome

While traveling from Vermont to Pennslyvania to Kentucky to Indiana and back all within 11 days, and oh yes, with 3 children under age 4, we acquired about as many stories as we had scattered french fries through out the van.

One the first leg of our journey.. we stopped after 8 hours of driving at strangers house. Well, not exactly a stranger. This summer, NETS hired a college gal to intern and help with business operations. She happened to be placed in our bible study group the last 2 weeks before the school year ended. After study one night, we were chatting about our road trip to the midwest, she excitedly said "You have to stop and meet my parents. In fact, it's about half way, you should stay the night. My parents would love to host you." The next day, she called and told me her mother was already (1 week prior) preparing the room for us. It was so sweet and thoughtful.

As Steve and I talked about whether or not to accept their kind offer something stood out toward us. If you are a friend of the "Son" then you are a friend of the "Father". If the Son invites you to his home you are welcomed by the Father.

Not only was this a sweet illustration of the gospel, but also a sweet testimony to the scriptures of how the Lord makes us (strangers in one sense) into ONE FAMILY because of our love for Jesus.

End of School Party & Surprise!!!

2006-06-22T13:24:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was the End-of-the-Year Party for Senior High Youth Group. It was a great time. Steve had lots of things planned for the evening including: a cookout, volleyball, ultimate frizbee, our annual water fight and a movie. We couldn't have asked for a better night in terms of weather. What Steve didn't know was that we (a large group of the youth and I) had a secret operation. Yesterday was Steve's 30th birthday!!! YEP the big 3... 0... The plan was a group of boys were to tackle Steve to the ground while a group of girls attacked him with cool whip pies. It worked. Although we were not as sneaky as I would have liked. As Steve caught me and the girls walking out of the house with something behind our back, the boys all gathered behid him just waiting like a lion waiting to pounce. He knew something was fishy and about to happen when finally one of the boys said... ATTACK. Steve went down and we came in with the pies. What more could a youth pastor ask for than to be smeared with cool whip for his birthday. The party continued with the planned water fight which was probably the best one we have had in our 5 years of youth ministry. Everyone was drenched. The seniors were honored with a little whip cream smearing as well. (ps... that should be a warning to any of you who want to graduate in the future. ;-) The night was so warm that most didn't watch the movie but rather continued to just playing games and hang out.

What a great year for the youth group. As He continues to plan for the Summer Youth Retreat I know his continued prayer is that all the jr & sr. high would Believe and Behold the only Son of God, Jesus Christ for True Life.. Eternal Life. (John 6:40)

Toddler Talk

2006-05-30T19:04:00.000-05:00

This was very funny and so cute. After lunch Gabi had some of her fruit smoothie on her forehead... she like to get every drop. I asked her to come here so I could clean off her forehead. She said mom.. is it my forehead or my Five-Head. I just had to chuckle. She was totally serious.

Congratulations Mana!

2006-05-13T10:11:00.000-05:00

!! CONGRATULATIONS ON GRADUATION !!
To my little sister::From your big sister & family

We love you! We wish we could be there to celebrate your hard work, long years, sleepless nights, group projects, endless hours behind a computer, trick test questions and easy A's. We are excited for you and for your future. Though you have finished your formal schooling, we hope that you would never cease to be teachable and never withdraw from learning from the source of all knowledge.

Romans 11:33 Oh the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways!

Search His judgments. Seek His wisdom. Mine His riches and Love His Way! Our prayer for you is to walk in the gospel, to know the power of God to transform us from dead to living, to live in the light of Christ that lets us see our sin and come to the cross rather than hiding in darkness, to feed on the nourishment of God through His Word that can yield fruit for His glory.

WE LOVE YOU!

Intro to Gardening

2006-05-10T15:15:00.000-05:00

BEFORE

Today began my first semester in ........Gardening 101.
It seems as though every time I get a plant (usually as a gift), I kill it. This year for my birthday I received a several plants (pretty violas and hardy kalanchoe). This morning my green thumb sister in-law took us to the "Disneyland" of gardening. As we toted our five kids in both Gabi and I had the same reaction... Oooooo Ahhhhh. The place was gorgeous. Every type of plant, pot and accessory was there on display. It was awesome just having Carey there, it gave me more confidence in this area that I so desperately need help. This afternoon while the kids took a great nap, I was able to get all the flowers planted. I wanted to plant a pot of herbs but I couldn't find my seeds I just purchased. Hopefully they will turn up here soon... nonetheless I was very excited about my 7 pots. Now I guess we will have to see how long they live.

AFTER
My Plants (a close-up)

Home at Last.

2006-05-01T08:52:00.000-05:00

Steve arrived home saturday night, excited yet very tired. This is very expected since they spent 30 hrs on a bus. We had a great time last night at the Katrina Reflections Meeting at church. Many people both youth and adults got to share their testimony of the impact of the trip had on them. Overall the trip to Gulfport, Mississippi was a huge success. They accomplished more than they expected. The 41 high schoolers had great attitudes despite the long bus ride, sleeping on the floor and quick showers. The 18 adults were extremely pleased with working and teaching the students how to do major carpentry tasks. There were several teams working on a variety of projects.... roofing, drywalling and painting. The evening bible time was spent in the book of Job.
Steve's Top Memories from the trip were:
1. The relationships formed with the cooking crew who were elder (60, 70 and some 80 year old) believers from North Carolina who were so chipper and happy even though they woke up at 4:00am and didn't leave the kitchen until 9:00pm.. that is serving!!!

2. The devestation they saw first hand. It is hard to imagine that that area is still a disaster area even after 8 months have passed. Many people are still homeless or are living in desperately damaged homes.

3. The relationships formed on the trip amongst the group. Many jokes were played. The most famous one done on the ... Youth Pastor.. (of course!) Here is the short version: Steve lost his towel, so they thought he wouldn't mind having a girly towel..
Well as you can imagine.. that went straight to Gabi once he got home. Oh does she love it!!

We are continuing to pray that the area hit by Hurricane Katrina and those that have served that area would both be redeemed and reconstructed by God for HIS OWN GLORY!!!

< 24 hrs homecoming!

2006-04-28T22:50:00.000-05:00

Steve has been away for a full week. They will all be back in less than 24 hrs. It is always a bitter/sweet time when He is gone. I miss him sooooooo much and yet I am so happy that He can serve the Lord during this mission trip.. rebuilding houses and sharing the gospel with our youth! While we are apart, I find myself writing a lot during that time, usually reflecting on our relationship. God has been so kind to me! My husband is such a sweet, strong, steady and sacrificing man. I praise God for the man He has given to me and the man He is conforming him to be.

How unbelievably awesome it is that God would plan Marriage to be a sweet picture of the Gospel! What a delight it is to know that my submission, delight and respect for my husband is a tiny picture of how my relationship is with my Lord Jesus. The longing I feel for Steve to return... just so that I can hear him, see him, hold him and be near him... points me to worship, pray and long for my Lord to return... with greater passion.

Rev 22:20-21
He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen.

Girl Movie Marathon

2006-04-24T22:35:00.000-05:00

This week is spring break for many of the students in our youth group. Steve is currently with most of the high schoolers down in Gulfport. Today was there first day of work. I haven't heard any news about how things are going.. but usually no new is good news. At least that was our saying last year when our church sent a 55 person team to Cameroon, Africa.
Tonight I had a gathering for the junior high girls... Girl Movie Monday... we called it. About 12 girls of the 16 girls were able to attend. We watched "Wives and Daughters"... actually only half of it because it is a 5 hour movie. We are going to finish the movie tomorrow afternoon. I must say it is very good. It is a Jane Austen type movie. A Must See. (Take into account I don't know how it ends just yet.) The girls' commentary on this film was fun and lively. The writers had quite a way of revealing the characters and the plot. I think the girls thought it was a hit, we originally were going to end at 9:30 but extended it to 11:00.
Anyone have any suggestions on other good 'Jane Austen type' movies or books that are a MUST SEE or READ? I would be very interested.

Not quiet belated... birthday!

2006-04-22T21:28:00.000-05:00

As I was running around the track today (first time outdoors, yippie!), I was chatting between gasps of air with my friend. Our conversation bounced around from running, to kids, to my weekend alone with out my husband (He is leading a mission team of 59 people for 8 days down to Gulfport, Mississippi to do Katrina relief work.), and then finally to our evenings. She just got out the words "Joel decked out the house this morning" when I started jumping up and down. I had totally forgotten that it was her birthday! I am such an absent minded girl.
This is for Lisa!!

Happy Birthday My Dear Friend!

Thanks for being a better friend to me than I am to you.
You are a sweet, caring and great friend!
You remind me of 1 Cor 13... patient, kind, and full of love!
With Love,
your Sister in our Lord!

Feel free to leave her your thoughts...

Easter Weekend Reflections - 3

2006-04-18T11:19:00.000-05:00

HAPPY EASTER!!!

After church we had dinner at the home of a family from church. There was 13 of us (not including baby Juju). Dinner was excellent. Fellowship was fun and lively. It was a lovely time. Gabi loved dressing up in her new dress. Thanks to Grandma Bette for making one!!! (I've been corrected.) Much of the Thanks goes to Great Grandma Arline!!! We Love You! She loves it. She has asked to wear it several times since then (and it has only been 2 days). The family that hosted us had an easter egg hunt planned for the kids. That was especially sweet. The kids loved finding them. I don't think I need to mention that they loved eating what was inside. CANDY!!

Now that Easter is over we can finish preparing Steve for the trip down to Gulfport, Mississippi. Steve has been organizing this Mission Trip for 57 people (Youth/Adult). We are praying for their time... that it would be fruitful not only in the physical labor and reconstruction of homes but also that through the evening messages that many of the youth would embrace our Lord and long to serve Him with all their lives.

Easter Weekend Reflections - 2

2006-04-18T09:38:00.000-05:00

A New Easter Tradition.
I got this idea from Noel Piper's book: "Treasuring God in our Traditions". Early in the week, I made some homemade playdough (recipe in the book). The next morning rolled the dough out and made a little mountain with a cave on the side. This was a little Mt. Calvary and the cave was the tomb of Jesus. I took the kids outside to find little stones to line the pathway to the place of the cross.. and also a large one to cover the tomb. They had ball doing this.. Playing with rocks, Sammy's favorite. We cooked it so that it would be hard. Then we decided to paint it to make it look more like a mountain. This was fun.. a little messy which of course is ALWAYS MORE FUN! We made a little cross out of sticks. I made a little stick figure out of pipe cleaner to resemble Jesus. I thought that we would walk through the scriptures according to what happened each day.. but instead ended up just overviewing all of it each day..
It is such a delight so see the kids learning truths and memorizing verses. My hope and prayer is that they would see and hear that (Steve and I) our lives are centered on the Gospel. And they would come to repent, follow, love and center their own life on Christ.

Easter Weekend Reflections - 1

2006-04-18T08:37:00.000-05:00

Does the world really know that we follow Christ... by our love for the brethren... the family of God?
This question has spun through my head on occasion. The Lord is so kind to prove His Word true to us. The day before Easter sunday we took the kids to Burger King to eat lunch and play in the indoor jungle gym. We were with 2 other families from church. After a little while one of the families needed to leave in order to get their little girl to a birthday party. So we offered to take their son home so that he could continue to play. This worked out quiet nicely for his parents to get some other errands done. So between us 4 adults, we had 5 kids and 2 babies. It was very fun. As you can expect there were little squabbles and cries especially among the 3 boys which our husbands handled. (What a blessing!) Well in the meantime, there was a little girl that befriended our girls. She had a father who must have noticed how we were interacting with each other and also the children (... I should mention how the men were handling each other's children). He asked us if we were one big family. We said... "Well, not exactly. We all go to the same church." This response sent us into a long discussion about churches in the area and religion in general. We invited him to church for Easter.
To our amazement and delight, He came! Praise God! We are praying for him to continue attending. Praying that he would come to know Christ through the Gospel. The verse below struck me as I thought about all our interactions that day...

John 13:34-35 "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."

God is True. His Word is True. He can be Trusted.

Lingerings of Humility and Pride talk.

2006-04-10T19:54:00.000-05:00

The Lord has been revealing an area of sin in my life revolving around the sin of pride. So as you can guess, Steve and I were discussing humility and pride the other night. As we were rounding out the discussion he read this page from Dr. Ware's book that he is reading for his Systematic Theology class. I found it especially helpful.. it resonated with my heart.

Quote from Dr. Bruce A. Ware's book: God's Lesser Glory
The Diminished God of Open Theism
page 228

And our good is found in humble submission, joyful obedience, wholehearted surrender - and in no place else. We find our greatest joy when we realize our wholesale need to depend on God.

Happy Birthday!

2006-04-05T23:30:00.000-05:00

HAPPY 60th BIRTHDAY!!!
To: Uncle Rod
I can’t tell you how sweet a spot you have and will have in my heart. If I only was given one word to describe you that word would be FAITHFUL. You have been faithful to what the Lord has given you. You have been faithful to love your family. You have been faithful to your word. You have been faithful to loving others…especially my family. I can only imagine the hours that you have been faithful to pray for us.Thank You. From the bottom of my heart, thank you. I pray that your example of faithfulness through the easy things and hard things of life would cause the world to take notice and ask ‘how can this be?’. And I can praise and point to only a God who has been faithful His own Word and to His own Righteousness that he would be so kind to bring us sinners into His family for eternity. We are praising God for your love for Him and your love to us.

Happy Birthday!

Love, Linda

Fellowship of Believers

2006-03-30T14:04:00.000-05:00

What an exciting day yesterday was.. At 10am, I had a friend over to cut my hair and she just happened to one of her former college roomates with her. I had quiet an encouraging time getting to know her friend J*** more. J*** has been on "holiday" for 4 weeks. She has traveled from country in Africa to Scotland to Georgia to Vermont. Today she is off to Montreal then back to Africa. You probably are wondering why.. well apparently the agency (which I can't remember the name of) requires a holiday especially when living in hostile area like ***,Africa. She is an engineer (mechanical) but is currently drilling wells for fresh water so now she is a Water Engineer. This was facinating to me. Pray for her. Pray for the continent of Africa and for the countries that are hostile to the Gospel of our Lord.

Then later that evening, Steve had a meeting for all the people that are going on the short term mission trip (in April) to Gulfport, MS to do Katrina relief work. Two men who have been helping Steve organize the trip were coming up to do some training for the relief work. Both of them are both missionaries with North Carolina Baptist Men and North American Mission Board. I had the priveledge of serving and hosting them for dinner. It was a real treat to hear their testimonies of coming to faith and to hear of their families, some of which are not walking with the Lord. Thanks to my sister in-law Carey.. for the great recipe: Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie. It was a huge success. All the men had seconds. :-)
I can't help a but reflect on much of a treat it was to hear of brothers and sisters walking in the truth.. yielding their life, desires and comforts for the sake of the Glorious Gospel.

Children's Book Review...

2006-03-25T21:04:00.000-05:00

I have often wondered about Max Lucado's childrens books (and videos) and how Christ centered they are. The Children's Hour did a great review if you were also curious like me.

I am still taking recommendations on Christ centered children's book.

My Heart's Poem.

2006-03-16T15:13:00.000-05:00

Why is it that so few
Would stop to contemplate You?

You, who are good, great and kind,
And has sent a gift to all mankind

You, who show us how to love,
As you were sent from up above

You, who came, a babe to be,
For all the world to hear and to see

You, who came to take our place,
And deliver us from Satan’s chase

You, who only have the power to make,
Us love the Truth and despise our state.

You, who only came to serve,
In dying a death that I deserve.

You, who at every knee will bend,
Either on this earth or after their end.

You who came to save and to find
Those who were sick and who are blind

As your Word says and as you command
‘Give up your sins and take My Hand.

Sins that once kept your heart so hardened
Will be gone and you will know My Pardon’

Oh how my heart longs to see your grace
Spread not to one but to every race.

Oh that all would long to know and taste
The Love of Christ which comes by Faith.

Taking refuge in the Lord.

2006-03-02T22:59:00.000-05:00

How awesome is our God that He is faithful to His Word.

Yesterday, I had such a sweet moment where a couple of scriptures came to life:

Psalm 119:11 Your word I have treasured in my heart,That I may not sin against You.

Psalm 18:2 The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

As you can probably guess having three kids under the age of 3 makes for an interesting and active house. Yesterday was a typical day. Right about dinner time, all of my little kiddos were operating in 5th gear and so was I. Dinner was on the stove and the table was being set when Sam had not gotten what he wanted. So he started in with his typical tempertantrum of whines that are always intensified by hunger. I was trying to handle my son and not burn dinner which will help solve his problem. My usually happy 'Juju Bean' was crying and crying... steadily increasing in her volume. Gabi decided to come to me with her 50 consecutive "why" questions. My head was spinning. Now, I have a break point which is usually set off by a combination of the chaos and volume level. Well we reached it yesterday. Usually this is when I fall into sin. The pressure cooker is cranked to high and what comes out is not pretty. I quiet my children (the older 2) with a loud and cross word. This response leaves me with guilt and shame. My conscience doesn't let me go on very long before I have to ask for their forgiveness.
All to the Glory of God... this did not happen yesterday. I held my tongue and thought about Psalm 18:2. The Lord is my God, my shield, my refuge. I don't need quiet. I need Him. I don't need order. I need the Lord in this moment to be my refuge. Not only from the noise and craziness but from the sin that still lingers in my heart. Oh how that calmed my heart and my mind. What a great God! Following Him, Leaning on Him, Resting on the truth of His Word made me free from my former reaction of anger.
Usually after the kids go to bed, Steve and I get a chance to talk about how my day went. I was so thrilled to say that the Word I have hidden in my heart kept me from sinning againt the Lord and my children. To Him be the Glory!

The fun & not so fun mommy moments

2006-02-21T15:57:00.000-05:00

What a day! It began at 1 am when our little Juju bean kept choking whenever we would lie her down. She has a bit of a head cold. This had us up for a while til my wonderful hubby took charge and decided to sleep with her in the recliner. I probably shouldn't say sleep.. it was more like cylical cat nap.
Well morning came and my energetic toddlers were not hindered by their dragging mother. Luckily, my shifting gear process didn't take that long today. I had enough of this cold that keeps cycling through our home. GG - Sam - Juju - Dad - Sam - GG - Juju this has been the pattern. Anyway, I pulled out the chemicals and decided to attack any "sick germs" still lingering. That means trying to track the most touched areas by my 2 little germ spreaders. I feel very satisfied even though my hands are cracking from the water and pinesol.
I felt so inspired, so I took some long awaited pictures. (Sorry, Mom for not taking these sooner.) I am really hoping that you mothers of multiple children can relate. I have great intentions of getting pictures of our parents' legacy but it often slips my mind. Here is a picture from our photo shoot:So for the most part the photo shoot went well. Lunch came and went fairly uneventful. All three were pretty tired. As I ushered the kids to bed I realized that their favorite blankets were in the washer.
Oops! I think the photo shoot thought replaced this thought entirely. Then came the break down.... you know the cries of tired, sick and dramatic toddler. As they were wailing in harmony, I tried to console and assure that their blankets would be dry when they awoke. Nonetheless, they ended up falling asleep with tears and whimpers.
Gabi always wakes up first so today we decided to have a "hot chocolate" tea party. It was very cute some of her favorite dolls joined us for the tea party. Then after we were done she had the great idea of washing her dishes (what a helper!!).

We are now preparing for dinner. Hope you enjoy the pictures. We sure enjoyed taking them.

TO HEAR THE WORDS “I LOVE YOU”

2006-02-20T00:25:00.000-05:00

With the birth of my third child this past September, I’ve been watching anew the different phases of showing affection that infants go through. All of them are exciting, but I’m longing to hear the precious words “I love you”. However, from now until then, I will wait patiently and enjoy the many adorable steps along the way. Juliana is already acknowledging me and blessing my day with her sweet smiles. She also cries when I leave the room and stops with a giggle when I return. Last but not least is the delightful experience of having her seek me out and snuggle deep in my arms anytime a man with a beard wants to hold her. Those are all ways in which she recognizes me as Mom.

Soon she will be reaching for me from the floor or crib with hope in her eyes that I pick her up and embrace her forever. Shortly to follow are open-mouthed kisses and drool down the side of my cheek. Then finally will come the moment when she responds with affection in her heart and adoration in her voice; a self-initiated “I love you”. My first experience left me as a puddle on the floor when my oldest daughter Gabriela grabbed my face with both of her little hands, looked me deep in the eyes, and whispered those three precious words as if she had longed to say them since birth. It was something I’ll never forget. In fact, it made all the hard work of labor and delivery, late night fussiness and early morning feedings, blowout diapers and doctor visits, all worth it. The glorious progression had begun with acknowledgment; grew through seeking and embracing, and culminated in adoration right before my very eyes!!!

The process of embracing the Lord Jesus Christ by faith is really no different. It starts with the acknowledgment of God. It continues as we seek to understand who Jesus is and why He came to die on a cold wooden cross, only to rise again from the dead. It grows when we begin to embrace Christ as Lord and Savior, and culminates when our adoration is fixed solely on Him. In a spiritual way, we are very similar to our infants. Each one of us is at a different place and developing at a different rate. Some of us have yet to start, while others have been saying “I love you” for years. Wherever you are, allow me to encourage you to participate in the Investigative Bible Studies that are taking place in March. It’s a great opportunity to find out where you are and move forward in the process. For God’s desire is to see you acknowledge Him, grow through seeking and embracing, and ultimately respond to His Son the Lord Jesus Christ with affection in your heart and adoration in your voice as you utter those same three words to Him, “I love you”.

Thoughts on Christian Books for Pre-K.. ?

2006-02-15T22:31:00.000-05:00

What Christian books would you recomend for children (Pre-k and Toddlers)?

Take a look at Karen's suggestions over at Sower's Corner.

Of all the books Karen suggested, the only one I already have is: "Most of all Jesus Loves You!" by Noel Piper.

Children's Book Question?

2006-02-08T20:40:00.000-05:00

Question:
Do any of you have any suggestions on
good Christian children's books ?
(toddler, pre-k, early school age)

ESV Bible Online - Streamed Audio

2006-02-01T23:14:00.000-05:00

Well I found this very cool thing today: ESV Bible Audio
On the ESV.org website you can do a search and hear exactly the specific passage your are looking for. I was way impressed and totally loving it. Hmmm.. maybe I can start doing my scripture memory verses in ESV.. instead of NASB (yikes.. that could get confusing) This site would be very helpful since I am an audio learner. I'll have to discuss it with the boss. :-)

Anyway.. Buried Treasure gives it a little 2 liner on her blog.. I found her site interesting.
Ta.. ta.. for now

Oh Sacred Head

2006-01-31T01:12:00.000-05:00

O Sacred Head, Now Wounded
Oh what a sweet song and sweet words about my Sweet Savior!

O sacred Head, now wounded, with grief and shame weighed down,
Now scornfully surrounded with thorns, Thine only crown;
How pale Thou art with anguish, with sore abuse and scorn!
How does that visage languish, which once was bright as morn!

What Thou, my Lord, hast suffered, was all for sinners’ gain;
Mine, mine was the transgression, but Thine the deadly pain.
Lo, here I fall, my Savior! ’Tis I deserve Thy place;
Look on me with Thy favor, vouchsafe to me Thy grace

What language shall I borrow to thank Thee, dearest friend,
For this Thy dying sorrow, Thy pity without end?
O make me Thine forever, and should I fainting be,
Lord, let me never, never outlive my love to Thee.

The Lord, King, Creator God who was blameless took my blame. The only One to whom all glory and honor should be given.. I mocked, scorned and turned my back to. He spared me from what my ignorant and hateful actions justly deserved and took the punishment on Himself. What a thought! What a King! What a Savior!
A tear comes to my eye when I sing that last verse I quoted: Make me Thine forever! Never let me outlive my love to Thee!
Overwhelmed by His Goodness to me, wicked sinner!
Goodnight.

Cute Cousins

2006-01-25T09:41:00.000-05:00

Cute Cousins

With only 2 months between them I can just imagine the things they will do together from... Tea parties and dress up to sliding down slides and making sand castles.

But before all that: I guess first they must learn how to just sit up by themselves.

Baby Shower Highlights

2006-01-23T22:48:00.000-05:00

Carey & Leslie's
Baby Shower

What a wonderful evening we had last monday celebrating the birth of these two precious babies: Eleanor & Benjamin. What a baby shower! The setting was lovely! The hall was dimmed with little white lights strung all around. Beautiful classical music was playing in the background, as we caught up with good friends. We sipped our freshly brewed cappuccinos and dipped our biscotti while sharing our funny baby stories. How delightful and relaxing! The night of fun was topped off by a word of encouragement from a veteran mother of seven. She shared that life is messy and hard, and we are needy and that’s normal. Even though there is a lot of change for all (mom, dad, brothers, sisters..) we can surely know that God is in Control. He states in the bible. So we really don’t have to worry but rather just seek him. Seek Christ for perspective and for strength. It was with these thought that we spent a very sweet time praying for both sets of parents, the kids adjustment to child number #2 and of course we prayed for these little precious babies & toddlers to seek after Christ and believe that Jesus came and died on the cross to set them free from sin’s punishment.

May the rest of us continue to pray for one another. As we look at these little babies (Eleanor & Ben) our faith in and devotion to Christ would model them: only being satisfied with the Word of God as our milk, with child-like humility accepting where the Lord takes us, and delighting ourselves in Christ just as a baby coo’s to see her mother’s face.

Congratulations Ladies!!

Motopolitico: Adventures in Babysitting part I

2006-01-20T17:32:00.000-05:00

Motopolitico: Adventures in Babysitting part I
If you like comedies this is an absolute must read! Too Funny!

Beach Party

2006-01-16T11:47:00.000-05:00

Beach Party

Well just the other day it was about 47 degrees here in Vermont. All the snow melted and ground started to thaw. Since we were in a bit of heat wave, the kids and I decided to do something fun. I layed my blue vinyl tablecloth down on the floor and also a tan blanket. Gabi and Sam pretended that it was the beach. So I pulled out the swimsuits and life jackets to complete the beach party. They made a little diving board from their step stool. For a couple hours they kept diving and swimming, diving and swimming. They pulled out their boats and rubber duckie. It was fun to watch. It reminded me of all the ideas and fun things my mom would do with us girls. Wow I'm getting old.

Elisha is Home!

2006-01-12T10:35:00.000-05:00

After a week of being in the hospital, my niece Elisha, is finally home! We are so happy for the Voskuil's, no more hospital food, or bed. Praise God that the pnemonia was caught early and that it only took a week (instead of the previous time 2 weeks). We are just praising the Lord for His gracious hand in all this and for building our faith in trusting Him with everything.
Here is the card we send them.. Full of silly cousins!!!

How sweet is His forgiveness!

2006-01-10T14:44:00.000-05:00

It amazes me how quickly pride and a judgmental spirit can infiltrate my heart. It seems to happen to me most when there is a legitimate issue or concern. It is if I am standing on a slippery slope, I can objectively observe something especially in those who I love and know the best, but I can quickly slip down the hill of thinking that I know better or that I would do it correctly. Yuck.

Romans 2:1 Therefore you have no excuse, everyone of you who passes judgment, for in that which you judge another, you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things.

Praise God that He does not let me get away with it. That He has put His Spirit within me to hate the darkness and love the truth. I wrestle and squirm until I come to Him in repentance. Praise God that I have a husband that loves to speak truth to me, and help me through the muck not by agreeing or adding a his own thoughts but by reminding me of the Cross of Christ. It is here, where both my husband and I and my sister who I judge, sit at His feet, gazing with thankfulness. What an overwhelming reality. Christ died on the gruesome cross for the sins of the elect. Wow! Even the sin of judging my sister in the Lord is covered by His sacrifice. How much I have been forgiven and how much do I need grace! Praise God that He is eager to forgive my sins when I come in humility before the throne! Oh may my the entirety of my life be consumed by knowing, going and praising the cross of Christ!

PLAYING IN SNOW IS FUN!!!!!

2006-01-06T15:08:00.000-05:00

PLAYING IN SNOW IS FUN!
After about 45 minutes of putting on all the gear: long underware, 2 pairs of socks, 2 shirts, a fleece, snow pants, coat, hat, mittens and of course big boots, we headed outside to play. It was quite funny. Sammy-boy could hardly walk in all that gear. Which made him a site to see. But then the real challege came, WALKING IN THE SNOW. He would take a step and then just do a huge face plant in the snow. Of course we are still in the whinny stage.. so there is no "Help Me Mommy" it is just "ahhhhhhhhh....." Gabi seemed oblivious to the little packer fan. She had a grand time just shoveling snow into her pail. The wind was blowing pretty hard so we didn't stay out for too long. I got the sign Gabi-girl was ready when she came over and with her mitten off and a tear from the wind streaming down her chubby little check. I asked her if she was cold and she just looked at me. I took that as a yes. It was lunch time anyways. So instead of making Sam walk all the way back to the house only to watch him fall about 1000 times, I carried him in. Once we were inside we tore all the layers off in about 3 minutes and left a big puddle and mess. That seems about right. I remember us girls when we were little doing the same thing: trying to get all the snow gear off without stepping in a puddle to get your socks all wet.
Well that was our morning in a nutshell. Fun, cold and funny!

DancingMogs

2006-01-03T13:11:00.000-05:00

DancingMogs
Phew... well, i am just now sitting down. This morning has been loaded with lots of activity. We had a play date with 2 other ladies and thier kids. Total of 4 boys & 3 girls all under age 4 plus two little infants. I'm just glad to be sitting with a glass of water.

Houston, We have Blast Off!

2006-01-02T15:26:00.000-05:00

Well, after many weeks of reading everyone else's blogs, I have decided to start one of my own. I have been enjoying reading others thoughts on different things but I guess my 2 favorite topics to read are: faith in the Lord Jesus and mothering stories. I also enjoy leaving comments. Please do so here.