Woody Farm: Homegrown Babies

How to Say This Gently

2012-02-01T06:46:00.000-05:00

I had a realization the other day that was very important to me, but it is difficult for me to know how to communicate this to you with grace and understanding. I've been praying about it the last couple of days and so I will do my best.

In beginning the documentary IndoctiNation, the other day, I came to a conclusion that even surprised me, but makes so much sense. A sweet young Christian elementary school teacher was being interviewed about her role as a believer in the public (or government) school system. This is the kind of teacher every mamma wants for her babies: a fourth generation teacher, in her late twenties, pretty, glowing with kindness, and a Christian to boot.

As she was interviewed, she said that she was ashamed of her role as a model for these kids. Sure, she tries her best to model Christ-likeness, but at the same time, she's teaching things that don't line up with Scripture and standing aside when another teacher reprimands children on the playground for calling eachother "gay" by saying "you don't know if you're gay yet or not, you won't find that out until you get older..."

Her interview aside, hear me out for a minute. The realization that I had from listening to her, while she did not come to this conclusion, was that it would be better for your small children to have the meanest most miserable pagan public school teacher than to have one brimming with life and beauty that they know is a Christian.

Let me explain. If you are sending a young child (we are not talking about lets say, 12 and older, who are at a stage of reasoning that is very different from a young child) daily to the wonderful Christian, who in turn cannot verbally go to God throughout the day with the children, cannot teach Scripture to them in solving conflicts, cannot tell the real meaning behind science, cannot train your child in the Lord... just consider that you may be sending a mixed message to these small children.

The message is this: Wonderful Christians don't talk about God. Jesus is not on their lips throughout the day. They don't tell the truth about God's world. They stay silent about the truth for eight hours a day. Really, being a Christian is just about being happy and good and kind. A constant learning about the Lord and coommunicating with Him is just a very private thing. We don't share these things out loud.

And isn't this what's happening in our culture? Unsold-out, private, works-based "Christianity"?

I do not doubt that this elementary school teacher is doing her absolute best, that she is groaning inside about her lack of freedom to share what she so badly wants to. I'm not saying you were not called to be a teacher or to send your young children to government schools. I just want you to contemplate the gravity and intensity of that calling if you are in that place. The great measures you must take to undo what is done so many hours a day. I would imagine it would be better for your child to have a mean, grumpy pagan that they do not want to emulate than a silent and wonderful Christian that they want to be just like.

Yes, you may have gone to public school and "turned out fine"... I went to public school until third grade and then Christian school thereafter. We have a lot of work here in our country to reclaim Christ in the daily lives of our people, to turn around marriage and family, to strengthen the faith of children. Be thoughtful and prayerful.

If you are at home with your children, this is not a magic wand of success. We too must be careful not to neglect bringing Christ into every conflict, teaching your children Scripture, talking about working for Him not for men, talking about Him and to Him all day. We must be vigilant to watch that all the "important subjects" do not crowd out learning scripture. We must be careful to communicate the grace and freedom of the gospel throughout the day. This is a great privilege and duty that we have and the enemy wants to distract us from this lifestyle. These things flow from the heart.

Deuteronomy 6:1-9

^" These are the commands, decrees and laws the LORD your God directed me to teach you to observe in the land that you are crossing the Jordan to possess, ² so that you, your children and their children after them may fear the LORD your God as long as you live by keeping all his decrees and commands that I give you, and so that you may enjoy long life. ³ Hear, Israel, and be careful to obey so that it may go well with you and that you may increase greatly in a land flowing with milk and honey, just as the LORD, the God of your ancestors, promised you.

⁴ Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. ⁵ Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. ⁶ These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. ⁷ Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. ⁸ Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. ⁹ Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates."

Admittedly, One Man's Trash...

2012-01-31T14:21:00.001-05:00

Is another man's treasure... I am a thrift store and occasional trash or yardsale shopper.

I think consignment sales and stores are expensive and for birthday or Christmas gifts... that's just me. I've always been a cheap shopper and it turns out, this habit comes in handy.

Yesterday's find was something I've been wanting for awhile now. On the way home from co-op, I spied a big pile of junky toys in someone's trash. Being the purger that I am and the hater of all toys, I kept moving, but the table in the rearview mirror stopped me.

We turned around and loaded the mildewed playtable with green mold making its home on it, into the back of the van, took it home and scrubbed it with krudkutter and rinsed with a hose. Voila. Now all I have to order is a new net for the middle to house the legos.

Nothing like a great freebie and a little elbow grease to keep the dream alive. The best thing I ever found in the trash? An almost new Cannondale bike that fit Clay perfectly. I actually had to knock on the door to make sure that one was trash. Yup, the guy was just too lazy and rich to give it away.

A year after Clay recieved it for Christmas, and didn't get to use it much, we sold it for between 2 and 300 dollars when we needed the cash.

Sometimes the Lord puts blessings in unexpected places. Or expected in my case. :)

Great Strides

2012-01-30T16:58:00.000-05:00

Thomas is making great strides right now. One of the most precious things is his increase in eye contact and social interaction. I LOVE this game between Parker and Thomas!

Live with Purpose

2012-01-29T19:28:00.001-05:00

I've been reading Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy for awhile now. I'm an avid nighttime reader, but the frist trimester and immediate sleepiness slowed my progress to being a little over halfway through a marvelous novel. I thought this was particularly poignant... I am always very interested, having been a follower of Christ my whole life, in how people who don't know Him view life. Tolstoy notes the following when the character Levin is brought face to face with his brother's imminent death:

"Levin felt guilty but could do nothing. He felt that if they both spoke without dissimilation and straight from the heart, they would only look into one another's eyes, and Constantine would say nothing but, 'You will die! You will die!' and Nicholas would only say in reply: 'I know I shall die, and I am afraid, afraid afraid!' That was all they would say if only they spoke straight from the heart. But that would make life impossible; therefore Constantine tried to do what all his life he'd tried and never known how to do (although he had often observed that many people were able to do it well), something without which life was impossible; he tried to say something different than what he thought; and he felt all the time that it sounded false and that his brother detected him and grew irritable" p330

So Levin comes to deal with death in this way:

"He saw death and the approach of death in everything, but the work he had begun interested him all the more. After all, he had to live his life somehow till death came. Everything for him was wrapped in darkness, but just because of that darkness, feeling his work to be the only thread to guide him through that darkness, he seized upon it and clung to it with all his might." p332

What are you clinging to? How are you navigating through life? Are you filling your life with temporal pursuits in order to forget what really matters? Are you storing up treasures on earth?

It can be really difficult to live for the next life. You feel different. Your kids feel different. Sometimes I just want to be normal. But, then I am reminded that this life is but a breath and my peace and joy in following Christ and giving up things of this world is renewed.

Follow Christ. Sacrifice. Give it up.

"And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first."

Matthew 19:29-30

Pregnancy Trail Mix

2012-01-27T06:49:00.001-05:00

Today I have a healthy and almost vegan recipe for you. This is what I like to call Pregnancy Trail Mix.

First add two parts:

To one part:

Lightly toss in a cereal bowl. Enjoy at night in bed with sprite or lemonade, while reading.

PRAISE GOD From Whom All Blessings Flow

2012-01-26T07:04:00.001-05:00

Praise HIM all creatures here below

Praise HIM above, ye heavenly hosts

Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost

Yesterday was a day of answered prayers and the doxology keeps going over and over in my head. Whether there is good or there is bad, there is nothing left but to praise the Lord. Praise the Lord for He is Good, His Love Endures Forever.

We went to the anatomy ultrasound for this new little life growing in our family. I really always try to prepare myself for the worst, to trust in the Lord and praise Him and know that He will carry us through wahtever He wills for us. Knowing a family friend who just went through carrying and delivering a baby with anancephaly, only to watch him die in their arms, made my thoughts a little more tender than usual.

But, we saw our little one and everything looked great! Everything! The last two had enlarged cerebral spinal fluid, but this one looked fine everywhere. And... just as I surmised.... IT'S A BOY!!! We are thrilled and especially for Baby Peanut, who really deserves a little friend. Thomas will always be everyone's friend, but just a special kind of a friend, so we were very thankful to the Lord! And though, I will be happy to have another girl at some time, I would truly be thrilled to have boys for the rest of my bearing time. We love our three little jewels and the Lord knew just the right birth order to give them to us in.

Onto the other just a miraculous, maybe more astounding news... the agency that has been helping us determine whether or not we can go forward was going to speak with Russian officials this week about our case. My friend Deborah and I were praying that they would be surprised at what came out of their own mouths. That they would say, "Oh... that sounds just great!" and then look behind them to see who must've said such a crazy thing. Proverbs 21:1 "The king's heart is like channels of water in the hand of the LORD; He turns it wherever He wishes"

Many of you were praying as well, and I want you to know that your prayers matter. There is an unseen battle that we are fighting together and you are indispensible. We heard good news yesterday from the Russian team's initial response which was surprisingly amenable towards our case. They need a little more information from the US Embassy about granting these children green cards and we actually may be able to move forward! This will be a very unstable process until the boys are on the plane to America and we will keep fighting that unseen battle and need you to join with us!

"For in You the orphan finds mercy..."

Hosea 14:3b

Oh Mr. Sun, Sun, Mr. Golden Sun

2012-01-24T14:11:00.000-05:00

Ahhhhhh....The Sun! We prayed this morning that the sun would come out so things would dry up, warm up, and we could all go outside. I love how the Lord puts things onto your heart to pray for... even though the weather man might've known the sun was coming out, after days of cold, wet, cloudy weather, waking up to an incredibly chilly and foggy morning didn't look promising.

But, Mr.Sun sure did come out and we sure did run out the door into the yard too. Peanut (also Mr. Sunshine himself) is practicing his ambulatory skills a little more these days. Let me just say, a push toy is a LOT easier on the grass than the slick wood floors.

He walked a little while and then gave up for crawling and eating dirt. What a life.

Keep Praying

2012-01-23T16:26:00.000-05:00

This is all I can say, friends. My praying friends. You know who you are and you are so important to the work of God. Thank you. We need you. These two little boys in Russia need you.

We trust the Lord completely that if we are not the best home to nurture these little ones, that He will make that clear and we will be content (and saddened) with that. We know that His ways are greater than ours and we are thankful to Him for drawing the plight of two little brothers all the way across the world to our attention and to our hearts.

This week is pivotal. The American team in Russia will be discussing our case with Russian officials. I just want you to realize that this final American agency has already put in a great deal of effort and time on ours and the boys' behalf without being paid a dime. They are doing everything they can to try to make this happen and because of faith and with much prayer.

My prayer in this unseen spiritual battle right now, is if it would please the Lord for these boys to be placed with us, that the Russian people in charge of making it happen would actually be amazed and astonished at their own answers. That they would make decisions that in hindsight they would be surprised, yet at peace, that they made.

Many concerns they have are based on practical logistics like affordability and sustainablity of healthcare, the ability to provide for such a large family and concerns about job security. Some of the concerns relate to having a newborn and working our travel with that. Some are simply that it is hard for most people to understand how a large family works, it is just an unfamiliar concept and very uncomfortable.

Please continue to pray diligently for God's way to triumph and peace for all involved.

Goats and Votes

2012-01-21T20:01:00.002-05:00

Funny, I was just asking Clay this morning if he thought Lucy or Bella had their babies yet. Then Clay got the following facebook message later in the morning:

Hi Clay! You are a grandgoat! Bucky the Great weighed 10 1/2

pounds at birth and has already outgrown his birthday

sweater. Fifteen minutes after his entry into the world he was

practicing his jumping skills. Bella did a wonderful job at the

birth and is a sweet and loving mom.

So, it looks like our "foster goat" indeed has a successful delivery. If you really want to know more about our time with Lucy-Bella, you can read more by clicking on "Lucy-Bella" under labels on the sidebar. I know you really care.

And then onto the other eventful thing today, besides the wedding I got to go to with four of our non-sick children, and unfortunately without my sweet hubbie. That would be voting in the primaries. We rushed out of the reception to make in time to vote for a Republican candidate. People, we need to vote. It makes a difference.

This video is kind of cheesy, but it makes a great point and is quite embarrassing. Please watch:

A Glimmer

2012-01-20T10:32:00.002-05:00

I've spent a lot of time praying over the last couple of days. Wednesday night I was able to attend the Presidential Pro Life Forum put on by Personhood USA and then came home to spend the night throwing up alongside Jules. Whenever I'm down, I figure the Lord wants me to pray. A lot. So I got on the spirtual battlefield while Clay held down the homefront and let me be sick in bed.

We recieved a "maybe" from the final adoption agency on Wednesday afternoon. They are doing everything they can to investigate our case and make decisions as to the probability of the Russians accepting it and the situation being a good fit for all involved. Meanwhile, we are waiting and praying for those little guys and for the Lord's angels to pave a way over to them to get them home.

We were told that if we don't adopt these guys, it's most likely that they will remain instituionalised until they age out. The statistics we've seen on children who age out in Russia are beyond dismal. They will pretty much all end in suicide, homelessness, prostitution, and joblessness. The enemy does not want these boys placed in a covenant home where the gospel will be lived out and shared with them daily.

People will say, "What a good thing you're doing, trying to adopt these kids." We don't think it's good, we feel that it is our responsibility. God has placed these boys on our hearts as if they were our own, and we feel that it would be criminal not to do everything we can to bring them home. We don't think we're doing something good or saving anyone. We're just doing what any Christian parent would do for their child in distress. It is our duty.

What about the other kids? What if these boys never attach? What about their emotional problems? What if they ruin your life? These are all good questions, but we have faith that when we are following God's call that He will work out everything for good. It doesn't mean life will be easy. We fully expect these children to have special emotional needs, as well as the children already living in our own home.

We are not naive of the dangers or the bumpy path ahead. But, we do believe that when we are trying our best to listen to God's voice and obediently walk in His ways, that He will carry us through every bump and that we will be safe in His will. Bad things happen to "good" people. There's a reason for that:

"Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us." Romans 5:3-5

Nobody needs to look for or sign up for suffering. It is everywhere and inevitable. It is the response to suffering that makes all the difference and determines whether you will grow in perseverance, character and hope or not.

Continue in prayer with us. We appreciate your support. A leading scientist at CDC is headed to Russia on January 31st, and will make a case for the expedition of these boys adoption due to medical needs, on our behalf. We hope to be approved by then.

She Understood

2012-01-18T06:34:00.000-05:00

Actually, I've been trying to get in touch with the Duggars for days: ever since I heard they were coming to Greenville this week. I know people who know them, but to no avail. I wanted to invite them over.

You see, I've always wanted to meet Michelle. She has been an inspiration and encouragement to me for years and also the only other person I know of that has babies as close together as mine and didn't stop. Her grace and kindness is a constant reminder to me. The way she treats other people is amazing.

I really don't look up to many people, it's just not in my nature, but Michelle, well, I suppose she is a hero to me.

So, I loaded everyone up in the car, including Emma's friend Wesleigh and we headed to Chick-Fil-A where they were campaigning for Rick Santorum. By the time I got, there, it was insanely crowded. We forced ourselves into the door, no stroller, Wesleigh trying to lug Peanut on her hip, and it was literally wall to wall people.

There was no way. So, we went out and got the stroller, and went around the parking lot to the area of the store we knew Michelle to be in. There were some of the Duggar girls (see top photo) and John David, who fortunately was not very popular (I did have to point that out to him, in the nicest way of course.)

So, JD and I talked for awhile. He remembered my little brother serving his family at California Dreaming on Saturday in Columbia: "Oh, the funny young guy?" Yes, John David, so hilarious that he didn't even mention me or get your phone number. I gave him my phone number and address on the back of a Publix receipt, inviting them over, but turns out, Michelle was going to be leaving in the morning.

After about an hour, I realized this was not going to work, standing in the parking lot and Thomas started freaking out. Meanwhile, Emma and Wesleigh had gotten all the signatures of the girls and JD, so I had to come up with Plan B. Their bus was parked over on the side street, so I decided, why not go to where they will go? Enough of this nonsense.

So, we went back to the van, passing JD on the way. I said, listen JD, I MUST meet your mother. I cannot stand out here with these babies, so here's the plan: I am going to go to Dunkin Donuts, get a million munchkins and park my van behind your bus. Kapeesh?

People usually do what I say, so he was on board to alert the parentals. My sister thinks I'm bossy. I'd say wisely mangerial... okay, maybe a little bossy.

So, we camped out with our muchkins for awhile, jamming ot Sweet Dreams are Made of These. Very out of body experience. I had borrowed a couple cell phones to give Clay updates (why have a cell when everyone else in the world has one?), so I knew he might come to relieve me. He finally arrived at about 5:30 and the Duggars (who were supposed to have left by then) were still in there, but it had cleared out a lot.

So, Clay and I traded cars, and Emma, Wesleigh, Lily and I went into a much much emptier Chick-Fil-A to stand behind only five people in the line to talk to Michelle. Aaaaaah.

When I finally got to her, I didn't realize how much it would mean to me to actually meet her. I told her I was going to cry. I told her I was having my eighth baby in nine years and she looked at me with those understanding eyes and said, "I know where you are..." and she did. We actually got to cover a lot of ground in about four or five minutes and make a connection through someone we mutually know.

I talked with her about the baby she lost and how I couldn't even listen to her whole message to Jubilee because it made me cry too much. She said that she shut herself in her closet and recorded that on here phone. She was stunned that she made it through without crying, by the Lord's strength.

We talked about schedules, and our adoption, and resources and seeing one another again someday. I don't doubt it, but look forward to it.

Everyone wants to feel like someone understands. Just for a minute. It's a lonely world where we are with the choices we've made. Even people I know that have several children are always not so sure they want more. I didn't realize what it would feel like to meet somene who really understood. But she did. And what an amazing blessing and encouragement.

I loved how, when the girls got in for a pic, Michelle immediately sensed Lily's shyness, and gently pulled her in to the photo. That was the sweetest thing.

The girls just had to see everyone, but I had friends coming for dinner, so we whisked over to Jim Bob and I talked with him for a few minutes. He was hilarious. We talked politics, denominations, birth control, homeschooling... He pointed me towards a book on his website which I actually know intimately by Randy Alcorn, called Does the Birth Control Pill Cause Abortion.

I told him I want to give it to people as wedding presents. He loved that and ran with it. He was ready to send it to anyone in the newspaper who'd gotten married, but I told him he better send a really good gift with it. I told him I was sure we'd meet again, and he invited us to the homeschool conference they go to, so maybe someday...

Last stop was Josh and JD, since Lily hadn't gotten their "autographs" yet. I talked again with JD to make suer he knew I wasn't lurking behind the bus. He whipped out his snazzy iphone and had to tell me exactly how far it was to the conference they love and that, yes, really, it would be worth driving fourteen hours for. I don't think he knows how much I hate the car.

Maybe if he sends me round trip airfare for everyone. Maybe then.

I love this passage I just read this morning. It expresses my sentiments perfectly:

Psalm 16

A psalm^[a] of David.
¹ Keep me safe, O God,
for I have come to you for refuge.
² I said to the LORD, “You are my Master!
Every good thing I have comes from you.”
³ The godly people in the land
are my true heroes!
I take pleasure in them!
⁴ Troubles multiply for those who chase after other gods.
I will not take part in their sacrifices of blood
or even speak the names of their gods.
⁵ LORD, you alone are my inheritance, my cup of blessing.
You guard all that is mine.
⁶ The land you have given me is a pleasant land.
What a wonderful inheritance!
⁷ I will bless the LORD who guides me;
even at night my heart instructs me.
⁸ I know the LORD is always with me.
I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.
⁹ No wonder my heart is glad, and I rejoice.^[b]
My body rests in safety.
¹⁰ For you will not leave my soul among the dead^[c]
or allow your holy one^[d] to rot in the grave.
¹¹ You will show me the way of life,
granting me the joy of your presence
and the pleasures of living with you forever.^[e]

Let's Go

2012-01-16T15:14:00.001-05:00

Our friend from Georgia Right To Life called this afternoon to tell me about this first ever presidential prolife forum. Should be interesting. If you want to go, let me know- it's at the Hilton on Orchard Park in Greenville... Register at www.personhoodusa.com... See you there!

Beautiful Groupings

2012-01-15T20:08:00.001-05:00

SATURDAY:

"Pause the Game! I'm going to go potty..." Lily doesn't want to miss a minute, but they've been playing for a few hours now while I painted the kitchen. They have gone through every single costume possibility and ended up rolling on the floor in hilarity.

One of the things that's so fun about having lots of kids close in age are the changes in groupings of children. The combinations of playmates are unending, so when one child has played enough with sibling B, you can move on to sibling E, or siblings C & D, and so on.

It was fun today to hear this little group giggling from the next room. It's not always so happy-go-lucky, but when it is, I soak up every minute. It will be so fun when they're grown up to look back on these moments and these sweet little memories!

The Waiting Game

2012-01-13T20:15:00.000-05:00

Still waiting here for someone to help us get those little guys in Russia. We will hopefully hear back from the last agency next week (we were really hoping by today, but these things take time) on whether they will be able to assist us.

Please be praying for the hearts of the people working with us, that the Lord would give them wisdom and direction. Pray for the Russians that they would be willing to give these boys a home quickly. The older boy, we learned awhile back, has declining health. He needs more medical attention and provision.

We, and the medical professionals here in South Carolina, are ready and willing to give that to him and his little brother. We have a great facility here that will be able to treat them and hope to get them up and running with great health once we can get them here.

We have an advocate going at the end of the month to speak with the Russian officials in hopes of expediting their adoption process. It would be incredibly helpful to have an agency by then and be on the way to being matched to these boys and have their info at hand.

We are emailing missionaries in their region, reaching out ot anyone we can think of that might be able to help us and them. We long for these boys to be given a home where they will be cared for, whether it be us or someone else.

But, we are willing, when for almost the last five years, no one else has been.

Please intercede for these vulnerable little ones. They are being cared for as well as they can be, but we know that they will need more at some point. We are ready.

Heartbeat Hearing

2012-01-12T19:27:00.000-05:00

My friend Ali came over yesterday with her father-in-law's doppler. It's good to have a friend who's a nurse! I hadn't heard the baby's heartbeat since a nine week ultrasound, at twelve weeks we couldn't get it. So, I was looking forward to that!

I pretty much always think that the baby is not going to be living, I suppose because my mom and some friends have had experiences where they didn't know they miscarried, but found out when they couldn't find the heartbeat.

Well, last night after dinner, I laid down on the bed with half of the kids watching and Ali found the heartbeat right away and it sounded great. Lily especially loved it. She keeps telling me that she wants to be a mom when she grows up and that she wants to have as many children as the Lord provides (which is not something we really talk about around here.) I was really surprised when she said that the other day.

She said it just like that: I want to have as many children as God.... provides. She was searching for the word she was trying to say. I told her, well, it could be two or it could be twenty. She is the most interested in this pregnancy and constantly praying for me and the baby.

I'm glad to have a little supporter to cheer me on and lift me up. And I was so glad to hear that baby. It turned out to be the highlight of the week.

Not an All or Nothing Type

2012-01-10T16:08:00.000-05:00

Artists tend to not be "all or nothings". When I am painting something, I have an initial vision in my mind and perhaps a thumbnail sketch of what I want. From there, I begin painting, responding to each stroke as I go. The people who have a hard time with art expect to have the finished product just like the initial image that is in their mind. In art, we converse with the canvas, we let it tell us what it wants to be within the paramaters of our goals. We stop, step back, look, analyze and continue.

I've noticed that I tend to parent in the same way. A mamma of five asked me yesterday how I do it (I think she meant all the things I do) and led me into an answer that I didn't expect to give. Yes, I guess I am laid back and organised. I do have an excel spreadsheet marking every thirty minutes of our day with a column for each child and myself, but I am easy going about switching things around when Thomas has therapy at 1:00pm instead of 10:30am. That just doesn't kill me.

Everyone does things differently and can be successful in what they do because it matches their personality, that of their children, their lifestyle and their husband's wishes. Back in the old days people had lots of children and that was normal. Not all of these people were exactly alike, but many of them had happy, peaceful, well stuctured homes despite the fact that they did things differently.

People often say to me: You don't LOOK like you have seven, etc kids! I'm not exactly sure what that sort of person looks like, but I have an idea of what they have in their minds when they say that. So, throw out your vision for what a mom to many is supposed to look like or do and just do what the Lord has for you. If you love kids and you want more, go for it, for the Lord's glory, but you don't have to be just like _______ to have a big happy household.

The Lunch Files

2012-01-08T19:31:00.003-05:00

Lunchtime can be absolutely crazy around here, so I am always looking for days that can be simpler than others. Most often, I make bread and set out pb, jelly, butter, cinnamon, honey, the occasional egg salad... and people go to it. The big ones make some of the little one's bread and it is absolutely and totally festive and a bit of a mess with all that stuff out.

We've done the braided thing with pizza before, but this time I decided to try pb&j on one side and pb&honey on the other. You can really use any type of bread dough that you like to make. Just put gobs of peanut butter and whatever on it. This week I'm going to do ham and cheese. After you braid it, let it rise as long as you can (30min-1hr) until it gets puffy.

            Bake at 350 degrees for about 15-20 minutes and voila- mess free pb&j that takes less time
to make than the individual pouches I did awhile back. Not the same thing as a nice thick slice of bread,
                                                            but the kids still loved it.

    Certainly not brilliant, but it worked and is great for a crowd. (Lily just looked over my shoulder,
        saw this pic, rubbed her little tummy and said, "That's Yummy". I guess that would count for
                                                    Kid Tested, Mom Approved Status.)

You Still There?

2012-01-07T06:35:00.001-05:00

Working Out?

Alright friends, I know a lot of you are thinking about starting to work out on a more consistent basis... people do tend to do this around the start of a year. I say, anytime that you feel inspired to get moving, go for it!

Everyone has different needs for working out and some people perform better when they are in a class of peers with a social element, and others, like me are self motivated and self competitive. I would encourage you to pray that the Lord would show you what, when and how to get some great exercise in, trusting that He will reveal that to you.

People often say to me- well, you don't really need to workout, you do so much physically during the day. But, truly, it is intense exercise- even in very short periods like I do with HIIT, that prepares you and gives you the strength you need for everyday activities.

Grant asked me once, "Why do you exercise?"

My answer was, "So I can take care of you."

Your motive for exercise will go a long way in the success you have in maintaining your program. If your motive is to lose weight, and you realize its not working, you will stop. If your motive is to look good, and it doesn't happen as fast as you want, you will stop. If your motive is to please the Lord by working out in order to do His work, He will sustain you through the difficult beginning and your motivation to feel good and take care of your family will keep you going.

Working out, to me, is not an option. I need it like I need sleep. My energy and optimism and strength have improved over the years and my pregnancy symptoms like nauseau and fatigue have pared down over the years. I attribute this to the prayers of my family and friends and the vision the Lord has given me to work out.

Here at 15 weeks pregnant, I have not had to tone down my workouts or lessen the frequency of five times a week, thanks to the Lord's goodness in giving me stamina and drive. Find something that works for you and go to it a little at a time... just do a little better every week until you build a routine that fits into your lifestyle.

This is not all or nothing. You have a lifetime to improve on your consistency, so start now!

And enjoy!

Praying the Positive Opposite

2012-01-05T06:15:00.001-05:00

There's my youngest brother, Clay, on the left and my eldest brother, Scott, on the right. Over Christmas, I was talking with my sister-in-law about how strange it is that my greediest child is also one of my most giving. She told me that Scott had come up with a concept as of late that I will call Praying the Positive Opposite. I asked him to write up something for me and in between his busy attorney schedule and attending seminary to follow a call on his life, as well as loving and raising his sweet family, he sent me this.

Pay attention. Scott is a man a of faith, always has been, and he has been also gifted with a great mind. Even though this is going to be a little long, sit down with your coffee, read it over and think it over. Let us join together this New Year in diagnosing our children and Praying the Positive Opposite.

So, enjoy, from Scott:

Warning: I don’t knowwhat I am doing as a parent! Although Iam in the middle of the muddy mire sometimes called parenting, I hope thesethoughts will encourage all of us to take another mud-clumped step on thedifficult and yet blessed road of raising our children in the discipline andinstruction of the Lord.

...

You have been duly warned, so let’s think about a topic thathas recently been on my mind: theweaknesses of my children. Before we getstarted, let’s get on the same page with what I mean when I say “weakness”. What I mean by “weakness” is an obviouscharacter flaw that results from a sin issue buried in the heart. Here are a few examples of what I mean by “obviouscharacter flaws”: (1) Screaming out of control with anger when yoursister is going to tell on you for hitting her in the face with a doorknob; (2) Laughing with glee when someone else getshurt or is sad; (3) Completely falling apart with wailing andtears when the ice cream cone you were just handed had five colors of sprinklesinstead of six; (4) Leaving a trail of destruction behind inevery room without a passing thought of ever cleaning up. I am sure each of you can fill in the blankand come up with a number “obvious character flaws” for any child that you have.

...

It is one thing to notice these character flaws in ourchildren, it is another to diagnose the “sin issue buried in the heart”. And this is vital, because to address theoutward flaw we must determine the inward cause. Jesus put it like this: “For from within, out of the heart of man,come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, coveting,wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. All theseevil things come from within, and they defile a person.” (Mark 7:21-23 ESV). So for those of us (like me) who tend toaddress our child’s behavior by focusing on their obvious character flawsalone, deeper work needs to be done.

...

Now that we are on the same page, let’s talk about what todo with our children’s weaknesses. Iwill offer just a few suggestions…

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(1) Pray the “positive opposite” of yourchild’s weaknesses. What do I mean by“positive opposite”? Sometimes the bestway to define something is by first describing what it is not. The “positive opposite” is not just whatever weaknessyou notice in your child with the word “not” in front of it. For example, if your child has anger issues,you would not just pray for that child to be “not angry”. This prayer is okay, and any prayer for yourchild is better than no prayer, but if we are praying to the infinite andeternally powerful and gracious God who can do all things, wouldn’t we want topray for more? Praying that your angrychild would “not be angry” is like asking Santa Claus to not bring you anythingyou don’t like. What do we ask for fromSanta Claus? Our wildest dreams. Forgive the God/Santa Claus analogy, but Ihope you get the point…which is that when we pray for our children we must notforget Who we are praying to.

...

So the “positive opposite” prayerfor your child follows these steps: (1) Remember the kind of God wepray to; (2) Think deeply about your child’s weakness andimagine what the opposite of this weakness is (see examples below); (3) Pray this until it happens or until your vision for your child expands,and then pray that. This style ofprayer is based on what we know about the Holy Spirit and how He works in thehearts of believers. The Holy Spirit doesn’t just get rid of sin,He replaces it with righteous actions. Hedoesn’t just make your child less like himself, He makes your child more likeJesus, too!

...

Here’s an example. In our example of praying about a child’sanger issues, there are a number of ways to pray the “positive opposite” foryour child. If your child’s angerhappens when he doesn’t get what he wants, you could pray a “positive opposite”that your child would be meek. Thinkabout it. A child who gets angry when hedoesn’t get his way has a deeper heart issue, where he thinks that his rightsare more important than anyone else’s. In this case, then, you would think about what the opposite of caringdeeply about your own rights is, which leads to a prayer for meekness. Someone who is meek is not a wimp, but rathersomeone who never asserts his own rights but strenuously defends the rights ofothers. When a meek person witnesses asituation where someone else is being trampled, that meek person is the firstone to step in to defend. The sameindignation that causes your child to yell at his sibling when he doesn’t gethis way can be transformed by the Spirit to be righteous indignation focused onthe oppressed in this world (makes me wonder if William Wilberforce’s parentsprayed that he would be meek!).

...

The point is that we must bewilling to think deeply about our children and their weaknesses so that ourprayers can be specifically targeted toward the transformation of thoseweaknesses into positive strengths. Thisway we are not just praying about the symptoms, but about the actual sin issuethat is in the heart of your child. Oftentimes, the “positive opposite” of your child’s weakness will not beobvious. How about another example? This time, let’s think about a child whoselack of discipline results in a trail of destruction throughout your housebecause they never take the time to pick up after themselves. In this case, praying the “positive opposite”of this weakness might not be a prayer that your child would exhibit morediscipline and start picking up after themselves. While this would be nice, a more powerful“positive opposite” may be a prayer that sees behind the undisciplined actionsa flexibility and lack of attachment that, when turned positively, would resultin a child who is willing to follow Jesus in whatever direction He leads evenif it means leaving behind comfort, stability, and certainty. So the next time your child doesn’t pick upafter himself, what a powerful thing it would be to pray: “Lord Jesus, I pray that my child would bewilling to follow You wherever you lead no matter the cost.”

...

Two things (among others) happenwhen you start praying the “positive opposite”. First, prayer works, and you will see your child’s heart transformedbefore your eyes, sometimes quickly and sometimes slowly (since grace tends tomature slowly at least in my experience). Second, your parenting will be transformed from “band-aid” to“gospel-centered”. “Band-aid” parentingseeks an easy fix to outward behavior, spending energy on getting your child toconform to expected norms, without addressing the heart issue. “Gospel-centered” parenting focuses on theheart, and though this takes hard work and deep thinking, this approachcentered on the grace of Christ will bless your children immeasurably. Praying the “positive opposite” will bendyour parenting style towards this “positive opposite” and away from a focus onthe negative. Not that the negativeshould be ignored, but I doubt that most of us struggle with ignoring thenegative.

...

Now, just a few more thoughts to work some balance into ourfocus on the weaknesses of our children.

...

(2) Don’t forget about your children’sstrengths. Think about your weaknessesfor a minute. You probably have beendealing with them for years and years if not your whole life. Your still haven’t rid yourselves of your own“obvious character flaws”. Does thismean that your life has been a complete failure? No, because you have strengths of your ownthat are being used by God to display his marvelous work in your life. You probably have nurtured these strengthsand improved upon them, all the while floundering in the weaknesses of otherparts of your life. Life is messy islike that. So don’t let the glaringweaknesses of your children blind you to their strengths, and spend as muchtime (if not more!) praying through and nurturing the strengths of yourchildren.

...

(3) Take the log out. Of your eye that is. I have often been driven to repentance when Irecognize that the sin in my children is really my own. We can spend so much time thinking about howour children drive us crazy or how they have so many problems that we don’teven notice the same (or worse!) issues in our own lives. Why should we expect our children to repentwhen we won’t do it ourselves?

...

Much, much more could be said about addressing your child’sweaknesses. For example, we have not even scratched the surface of speaking the goodnews of God’s grace directly into the sin issue buried in the heart of yourchild. In the end, the only hope foryour child’s (and your) weakness is the grace of Jesus Christ. Thankfully, this “only hope” springs from Onewho is faithful and sure to extend His grace and mercy to all who call upon Hisname. Let us, then, call upon Him onbehalf of our children with great expectations!

From Zero to Pregnant

2012-01-04T14:30:00.001-05:00

In Sixty Seconds.

That's right, friends. I have officially popped out. No, this is not twenty two weeks pregnant. This is a little over fourteen weeks. Don't worry it will get bigger. And bigger.

Come twenty two weeks, people start asking me how many are in there. By twenty eight, store clerks are poised to call an ambulance in case I go into labor. Sorry folks, it's only one and it's going to be a few more months.

Oh well, at least I can't say I've ever had a small baby or been low on amniotic fluid. In fact, my babies tend to be breech until pretty late because they have AMPLE room to move around.

Just wait.

Today is a Big Day

2012-01-03T06:41:00.000-05:00

Today, a draft of our homestudy, will be, opened and viewed by two adoption agencies that were willing to review our case. You see, there are only four agencies that have access to the region of Russia where the boys live and only two were able to tentatively work with us pending a homestudy.

The main issues for consideration here are waiving a pregnancy policy and adopting out of birth order policy. These are pretty standard policies, which make sense, but certainly there are exceptions and that is what we are trying to make a case for.

We trust these agencies and their expertise to know whether or not the region these boys are in would be amenable to us bringing them home and after reviewing our file, whether or not we would be a good fit for these children. Most likely, the boys being considered "special needs" is really the only reason this could probably work in the eyes of the world.

This is simply because it makes them less likely to be adopted, so the government where they live might be more flexible and interested in getting them in a good family rather than just discounting us based on a first glance for being pregnant and having many young children.

The people involved in the adoption of these boys have their best interests at heart and we hope that they will be able to see that we do as well. Above all else, we completely trust the Lord that He has made these children and will place them in the home that is perfect for them.

Pray that the Lord will give all people involved wisdom and courage to do what's right. We have completed the homestudy and are only waiting for the FBI report to come in, so this is our next step, which is to be accepted by an adoption agency.

^"5 A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows,
is God in his holy dwelling.
⁶ God sets the lonely in families,
he leads out the prisoners with singing..."

Psalm 68:5-6

Horizontal, Vertical, and Every Which Way

2012-01-02T06:20:00.001-05:00

Thomas loved it when Grandma and Papa John came up for a little visit Saturday. Papa John sat at the table with Thomas for over an hour as his personal drawing assistant and I think Thomas would have stayed there forever had the dinner bell not rung.

You may not realize how big this is to us, but a few months ago, his therapist had as a goal to get Thomas to be able to focus on one activity for just a few minutes. Thomas does not play with toys unassisted. But, drawing, well once we discovered his love for drawing, lets just say he does it 2-3 times a day.

He was very focused on crossing through the circles and he loves to follow and trace horizontal lines. I know that his occuaptional therapist is going to be thrilled when she comes back this week from vacation to see his progress.

She started by teaching him the vertical line and then moved to the horizontal. I kind of hope that Thomas' love for writing and drawing will grow and develop and that maybe he got the artist gene from me that goes so far back in my family lines.

Here's to Thomas, a sheet of paper (or wall... or chair... or stairs), and a crayon!

Last Year: The Big Things

2012-01-01T07:45:00.001-05:00

Jackson went through his first year of life and blessed us with his very endearing nature.

Lucy and Bella the goats left us and moved to First Fruits Farm where their dad lives- they are expecting babies some time soon.

We saw a little Russian boy's picture, and both moved by the Lord he may be our child, Clay and I began the process of going to get him and his little brother.

Thomas was found to likely have X-linked Mental Retardation based on genetic and developmental testing. He finally learned to walk at 22 months!

Our church bought the house next door to renovate for missionaries to use on furlough- one of the greatest blessings of the year.

We had a major tornado-like storm pass through our backyard wreaking havoc and months of work.

We began the renovation of a second bathroom after living with one for a couple of years.

I became pregnant with our eighth child a couple of weeks after a suspected miscarriage and the baby is growing and strong.

All in all, it was a great year, full of interesting things, but still stable and calm at the same time. We learned and grew together, enjoyed being together in our home, discovered new things... Clay and I have enjoyed another year of being married to one another, raising these babies and going on adventures of life together, opening our home to friends and strangers...

The Lord has proved Himself faithful and right to us day after day. His strength and provision have been evident and even in our weakness and sin, He remains merciful and faithful towards us. We have been given the grace to continue to follow Him and seek His will and we are thankful that He has chosen to open our eyes to His goodness!

As you reflect on the past year, ask the Lord that He might open your eyes to His mighty works that you may too praise His Glorious Name!

The Burden of the Unborn

2011-12-30T07:19:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 31:8-9

⁸ Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves;
ensure justice for those being crushed.
⁹ Yes, speak up for the poor and helpless,
and see that they get justice.

I was reading this yesterday morning in my oneyearbibleonline.com reading and was particularly moved by it. Clay, looking over my shoulder, had the same thoughts and feelings as I did.
...

I just want you to think for a moment about the idea of a woman carrying a little infant carrier into a medical building. She walks in with that sweet little newborn, just born to her two says before. The baby is contentedly sleeping with her little hand resting on her cheek.

...

The woman comes out an hour later. The infant seat is empty and you know that that precious baby you saw a moment before was dismembered, bloodied and killed.

...

Imagine the weeping and tears. That wailing and heartache you would endure from having witnessed such a horrible crime. Would you not stand outside that door every day once you know what was happening, begging and pleading for these babies lives? Would you not call the authorities and report what was going on in there? Would you not fall to your knees in tears and cry out to God for mercy and help?

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This is happening every day, my friends. Remember that picture that leaked of the Duggar's baby that was recently miscarried at around 20 weeks? Did you see that little hand and those tiny feet? Abortion is cloaked in the lie that because a baby has not breathed the outside air, she has no rights to life.

...

Jubilee Shalom Duggar from WMtek Inc on Vimeo.
...
Do these mothers need help? Absolutely. Do they need mercy and grace? Completely. Do they need an advocate to help them to understand the value of their's and their child's life?

...

Let us pray for the unborn and do what we can to save their lives. Give financially to pregnancy centers and pro-life advocacy groups. Encourage women that you know who are suffering. Adopt children. Speak up for those little lives in whatever way that God leads you.

...

Just don't remain silent and inactive.

Raise Your Hand if You Live For Peanut's Smile And/Or Happy Birthday Jackson

2011-12-29T07:21:00.000-05:00

Oh sweet Baby Peanut! A year ago today, he woke up into the world crying out into the air and seeing his first glimpse of sunshine. Today he awoke, the undeniable sunshine of our lives, crying out from a high fever and the pain of illness. Sweet Pea.

We live for Peanut's smile here at Woody Baby Farm. He is, without a doubt, the nicest guy anyone who knows him has ever met. I knew the day he was born that there was something really special about him. I looked at him and saw in him the future of being a great man of God and I can see the Spirit in him even at a young age. There's just something different about little Jackson.

I shudder to think of the possibility of not having him. He is the cream on top and without him, our lives would be dim. A friend made a comment about him recently that I realized is probably right. He said, "I know who's going to take care of Thomas when he's older." referring to Baby Jackson. And I think there's something to that. Maybe God has brought Thomas a little one to love him and watch out for him.

I won't be surprised if he does. Baby Peanut, we love you, we cherish you and we thank God that He would show His kindness and mercy on us and share His love through you. You are a dream come true.

Anybody Else Recovering

2011-12-28T07:00:00.000-05:00

From Christmas?

Everyone over here is hacking away, including me. Some kind of cold bug got us bad, thanks to Peanut. Christmas day, we went to church and to my grandparents house for cake and coffee in the afternoon. When we got home at 6pm, the kids begged to go to bed without supper and woke up between 8-9 in the morning. I went to sleep at 7:30 and woke up at 7:15. Let's just say it was a crazy couple of days and we are in recovery mode now.

The best part of Christmas, hands down, for me, was our service at church that morning. Clay and I had to take turns going since the babies were sick and he took the oldest five to the Christmas Eve service, and I got to take them the next morning to church. It felt so special to have the Lord's day on the Lord's Day. What could be better. I was moved to tears over and over by the Goodness and Faithfulness of our God and the greatness of what we were celebrating.

Another really sweet thing that happened impromptu first thing that morning, was when all of the kids came into our room and hopped on the bed to wait for the time to get their stockings. I had been praying that their hearts would be turned to Him throughout the Christmas season and on His day. As we waited for the coffee to percolate, we got to sing some Christmas songs together, there in the dark bundled up and gathered together.

So, this week, Clay is off of work, busy as a beaver doing projects around the house, we are playing scrabble, learning to knit, cleaning up Christmas, being together, seeing friends, recovering. Getting ready for another exciting year. It's hard to imagine the changes that 2012 is going to bring.

The Divine Night

2011-12-26T16:26:00.000-05:00

One of the highlights of the Christmas week was starting it off with a little play and dinner at our neighbor's house. She makes all their costumes and organises the play. They practice several times and greatly anticipate the night when we gather together to turn our hearts towards the Great Work of our Lord who came to earth to redeem our lives. Merry Christmas!

Enough To Make a Grown Man Cry

2011-12-23T06:45:00.003-05:00

One of my friends told me about Third Day's "Merry Christmas" song... this is dedicated to Clay, who along with the rest of us and even more anxiously than all of us is waiting for these little Russian boys that we are trying to adopt, to come home. She said it made her husband cry, so watch out.

It's been pretty quiet here over the last couple of weeks on the adoption front. We've turned in everything for our homestudy, had our visit and interviews, and now we are waiting for everything to come together, which should happen in the next couple of weeks. The FBI check will take the longest, but hopefully by February that will be in.

We had a little bit of activity on the phone yesterday with one of the prospective adoption agencies that was encouraging and made me think- wow, we really might be in Russia soon. The sooner the better in the case of one of the little guys, whose only report we have on his health shows a decline.

Once we get him here, the doctors feel like they can turn him around pretty quickly, but the numbers look like he's not getting the medication that he needs for whatever reason. Fortunately, the scientist (and adoptive parent) that we met with at the CDC is willing to inquire about them when she meets with the officials in Russia at the end of January, so hopefully that might help things for him.

So, please continue in prayer for the boys and their health, the FBI check to go quickly, the agency to have wisdom about how to write up our report, for all of the documents to come together... For the Lord to pave a way for these little ones to come home.

I Live in NYC

2011-12-22T07:07:00.000-05:00

I can get a little antsy when I'm pregnant. It's only natural, you know, the nesting instinct. I start painting things. Chairs, walls, children... Everywhere I look I see an organizational problem. Of course right now, I'm a little to weak to do much about it, but come second trimester, I whip into gear.

Certainly, this is a God-given gift, when directed in the right places. To have the natural drive to prepare your home to include another person (or two or three) is a blessing when harnessed and controlled.

But then there's that discontent bug that creeps in. Or in some cases rushes in like a torrent ready to consume everything in it's path. The bigger the tummy gets, the more I run into people (literally) around here, the smaller and smaller my home seems. Sure, I live in a not-so-big house. But, I also love my house and love my neighbors. And that's worth a lot.

We are safe here. We all have a place to sleep. We each have a spot at a table. The bathroom situation... well, we're working on that, but at least we don't have to stumble out in the dark rain to an outhouse, right?

I really have been praying a lot lately that the Lord will help me in this area of contentment. I have been encouraging the children (or myself) to think about the little ones in India who literally live in a dump and spend the days scavenging recyclable materials to sell for their food. I have been reminding myself daily and thanking the Lord for all of the good things about our home and where we live.

Sometimes I think we're in this not-so-big house so that we can encourage others who want more children, but feel like they can't for lack of space. Our house is definitely not tiny, but as we keep adding people, well, we ARE Americans after all.

When we lived in DC, we used to go out to the Virginia suburbs to visit some friends in their little townhouse. Their adjoining neighbors were a Pakistani extended family of what seemed like 12-15 people crowded in that little place.

Anyways, these days, I am just pretending that I live in NYC. I visualize the city outside my walls (I really do this quite often) and I feel ridiculously spoiled for how much space we have. I'm like- what!?! a HALLway! I can turn around in the KITCHEN!!! I can actually sit at the table without touching a wall to my back!!!

Sometimes that's all you need. A little thankfulness and a game of pretend. It's all a matter of perspective.

Yummy Chocolate Peanut Pretzels

2011-12-20T15:34:00.000-05:00

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Line up pretzels on cookie sheet and top with kisses.

Bake for 2-3 minutes.

Remove from oven and immediately press peanuts, m&m's, or pretzels on top.

Cool in refrigerator or on the counter.

Or go ahead and eat them warm. No one's looking.

Developmental Twins

2011-12-19T15:43:00.006-05:00

We went to one of our favorite playgrounds the other day. Let's just say, the moment we got there, Thomas who normally will not leave my side (literally) was off. This came with quite a few challenges and lots of chasing, but was worth it.

Julesie, the fearless one, did the wildest things on the "big kid" equipment. even when she fell off, she didn't care and went right back to it (sound familiar?).

Thomas and Jackson were dressed alike, so of course another mom asked me if they were twins. I said, well, yes, developmentally. Peanut is just starting to inch out past Thomas in development. Thomas is still ahead in walking (not for long) and fine motor skills, but Peanut will soon lap him in just about everything else.

It's hilarious seeing Jackson do "normal" things, like having a desire to walk and mimicking sounds and motions. I kind of forget since Thomas doesn't do these things and when Peanut does something like bang the table after I do, I'm like, "He's a GENIUS!" and then I catch myself and laugh.

Apparently, a lot of babies like Thomas will learn a lot from their younger sibling, because they become competitive and/or interested in what the little one is doing. I see Thomas noticing Peanut, so hopefully he'll pick up a few tricks from little bro.

So, it's onward and forward little Peanut... time to teach Thomas some new things. Really at this point, Thomas likes reaching over from his highchair to Peanut's, stuffing crayons in his mouth, and giggling. Oh well, all in good time.

Dear Betsy,

2011-12-19T07:24:00.001-05:00

And all of my other friends having their fourth (and fifth children)...

I have a special place in my heart and my prayers for you. Truly, when we had number four and our oldest was still three, that was the most strenuous transition we've ever had. You are about to be caring for four or five little people who need just about everything done for them physically. You will be racing around the kitchen filling orders. You will be attending to the bathroom and diapers constantly. You will be lifting and buckling and dressing and bathing and caring for all these little ones with little help.

But, do not despair, and please do take one day at a time. While you can (and should) make a plan and do your best to be ready to care for all of these, your greatest strength will be in trusting the Lord daily, hourly, and by the minute to change your heart, give you patience and diligence, create contentment and longsuffering in you.

Maybe some of you who are using the oneyearbibleonline.com read this with me from Psalm 138 this morning:

³ As soon as I pray, you answer me;
you encourage me by giving me strength.

⁴ Every king in all the earth will thank you, Lord,
for all of them will hear your words.
⁵ Yes, they will sing about the Lord’s ways,
for the glory of the Lord is very great.
⁶ Though the Lord is great, he cares for the humble,
but he keeps his distance from the proud.

⁷ Though I am surrounded by troubles,
you will protect me from the anger of my enemies.
You reach out your hand,
and the power of your right hand saves me.
⁸ The Lord will work out his plans for my life—
for your faithful love, O Lord, endures forever.
Don’t abandon me, for you made me.

Take heart, have courage, and watch the Lord provide for you in unexpected ways. Don't trust in men to help you, but in the Lord alone. Have faith that if you need someone to help you, that He will provide it and that if there is no one there, that the Holy Spirit will be enough for you at that time. That adversity and difficulty will strengthen you as you trust in Him alone.

Right now, as you are waiting for these little ones to be born, teach your children to obey. Teach them that work is good and how to be helpful. Make a schedule and practice it. Get into a rythym. Simplify your life. Pray about what needs to be done and what can be done away with. Don't sign up for things just because everyone else does. Pray for discernment and simplicity.

Learn to be thankful and to Praise the Lord moment by moment. Learn that work is good, that God created men to work in the perfect Garden of Eden. Rejoice in your tasks. Preach these things to yourself day by day. Above all cultivate a thankful and humble heart that is undeserving. Know that I say all of these things to myself as well as to you. Remind yourself of these good things and pray for the fruit of the Spirit.

You have been given a special gift. You will be amazed at how as they grow, you can't imagine how dim and dull a life would be without these amazing creations of God. I pray for you and will continue to as the Lord carries you through this time of stretching your faith. May God bless you all and keep you in His perfect peace.

Hold onto Your Hats and/or Woody Recess

2011-12-15T15:13:00.000-05:00

Final Dismantling of the gutted upstairs bathroom + pizza box + stuffed animals + rakes = Recess Woody Style.

The Frog got some chances to fly pretty high in the air, the old pipes were arranged to make cars for the animals to "ride" in, and the weather was perfect.

I know what you're thinking: "Back up a minute! What!?! The Woodys are going to have TWO bathrooms instead of one!?! Hold the presses!!!

That's right, folks, as we speak, these talented gentlemen are working away to create the SECOND bathroom. Gone are the days of children having to stop going potty halfway through so another can rush in. Gone are the days of brushing teeth in the kitchen...

The day is coming when my children will not come downstairs at night for their one potty trip. They better not. The day is coming when two people can throw up at the same time in a useful place. The day is coming, my friend, when I might just be able to go to the bathroom without anyone else in it or without anyone banging on the door desperately because THEY have to go.

I know it's hard to imagine. Woody Baby Farm with two bathrooms, but the day is looming and I will be dancing on the clouds that day. Or going to the bathroom a lot just for the fun of it.

Creating a Culture of Reading

2011-12-14T06:44:00.002-05:00

The human heart has an innate longing for stories. This is something that all people are born with to varying degrees. The question is, how will you meet that need and foster that desire in your children?

Just like you can ruin a child's appetite for hearty brown bread by giving them white, which I admit I've experienced firsthand, you can easily ruin a child's appetite for good literature through television, gaming, and inferior books.

So, how do we create a culture of literacy, expansion of vocabulary, a natural growth in writing capabilities, and hunger for knowledge? 1.Read good books to your kids. 2.Use visual media sparingly- very sparingly. When you create a vacuum of entertainment, your children's longing for a story will go to what you make available: literature. 3.Have good literature available through books and audiobooks.

Choose stories that are rich and compelling. Look at booklists through www.sonlight.com and www.amblesideonline.org and either buy them on amazon or ebay, check them out at the library, or download the audio version on www.audible.com.

Don't be pushy about your child learning to read and loving to read, just keep offering gentle help and interesting resources. It will come for most children, but don't be discouraged if your child feels more comfortable listening to great books, they are getting the great vocabulary and writing growth that will expand their natural abilities.

Always give them something to do with their hands while they listen whether drawing, building blocks, or knitting, this will allow their brains to focus better. Enjoy great literature! This is the foundation to the growth and expansion of knowledge and wisdom.

All in a Frame

2011-12-12T16:02:00.000-05:00

While I am incredibly thankful for the kindness of a stranger to take the one and only shot we have of our entire family, I'm puzzled as to why people tend to take pictures too far away. I brought my camera for an impromptu photo of the fam for our home study, so here we are. All however many of us. I can't count right now.

How about a little crop action and a teeny edit job. FRANCES!!! We looked for you. We needed you! Well, at least we're all in a frame. (and doesn't Grant carry a cute purse?)

"Oh, but your children are giving up so much already..."

2011-12-11T15:33:00.001-05:00

I heard this said to a friend recently who is taking their family on the mission field soon. It was a very innocent, well meaning comment, but I know from experience how those aimless comments can really hit at the heart.

What I really wish people would say, when someone is obviously following the call of the Lord in their lives, is "Oh, your children are gaining so much in this." And, I'm sure they do, but often it is the umeaning negative feedback that you hear.

Of course, immediately I had to write my friend a note in which I mentioned that I wanted to encourage them in all the ways that their children are actually gaining. That they are being allowed to be involved in a special call from the Lord, that they are going to learn compassion firsthand toward another culture, that they have parents that are listening and following the Lord, despite their flaws, weaknesses and imperfection. I dare to say that any child leaving this indulgent American culture to live in a more spirtual and humble culture is gaining something in and of itself.

Of course, we all hear the negatives about the missionary kid, the pastor's kid, the adopted kid, the homeschooled kid, the kid with the special needs sibling, the kid from the big family... and on and on it goes. I wish we could actually quantify the problems that come from the children of "normal" families versus those coming from these situations. I imagine you wouldn't see much of a difference. It's just that people really like to watch the unusual circumstances and oftentimes, people are afraid of these things, because they don't know them firsthand, and that is understandable.

So, how is it that we nurture children in these different circumstances? Obviously, first and foremost, we fall on our knees before our Saviour daily asking for wisdom and forgiveness and strength. We get our wisdom through the counsel of the Holy Spirit and consistent careful reading of His Word. We lead a household of faith where we listen to our children's concerns and humbly give them Biblical answers.

We pay attention to our children and pray for them fervently. We listen to them and answer their questions. We include them in the work of the Lord and teach them to be positive about the tasks He has given us. Instead of grumbling about all the dishes and dirty clothes, we learn to rejoice over all the good workers the Lord has put on our team and encourage our children that the Lord made work even in the perfect Garden of Eden, and that it is good.

Instead of groaning about all the hard work that the special needs child is and over focusing on their development, we balance their needs carefully. We learn to show compassion, joy and love towards them even in the difficult times and in doing this, our children model our behaviour. We assess the needs of each child and tend to them as the Lord gives us the ability to do so.

Instead of being afraid of the challenges an older adopted child can bring, we prepare our children to understand the human heart and to understand the attatchment issues and the possibility of abuse and neglect in their lives already, and just what that can do. Then we encourage them as they walk with us in bringing the gospel and healing towards people, who certainly may never accept it. And in this case, the children, when nurtured and encouraged, might possibly learn a great gift of love, longsuffering and compassion towards a human with nothing to give.

These are all valuable lessons for children, but they must be carefully cultivated, framed in God's word, cloaked with His grace and covered in depth of prayer. Children can learn so much when they are guided carefully through a seemingly adverse situation with the love of their parents. But, you can't just let things go. You can't leave a plant and expect it to thrive and grow. You must tend to it, care for it, water it.

Any situation the Lord has given you or called you to can be a gaining and winning situation for your children. If you are following Him, He is not going to leave you and your children without His mercy, wisdom and strength. Do not be afraid of your calling. The Lord will care for you (please understand that when I say "you" mean you and your spouse) and these little ones in His great grace. He always blesses obedience.

A Trip Down Memory Lane and/or The Date of the Decade

2011-12-09T15:25:00.001-05:00

Clay and I did most of our dating in Atlanta and NYC. We both have lived just about everywhere in Atlanta as single people and lived there for a few years married with children as well. So, yesterday, when we had a meeting to attend at the CDC, we decided to leave the kids at home with some very capable girls and make a day of it.

I do HATE leaving the children, so of course I was up at 4:30 in the morning, praying for their safety and feeling a bit on edge. By the time we left at 8:30 am, I was fine. After our meeting at the CDC, there was no question as to where lunch would be. Doc Chey's. Hot steaming Thai Spicy Basil noodle bowl for me and Masaman Curry for Clay in our old stomping grounds of the Virginia Highlands. YUm. We both agree that if we HAD to live in ATL, it would be the Highlands.

(btw, all photos harvested from the internet)

Then, it was off to the ever loved, IKEA. IKEA is just one of those places where you can't believe something so stylish could possibly be so cheap. We took our time, looked at everything, and drove off with two of the cutest, tiniest sinks you've ever seen in hopes of our second bathroom coming along soon! IKEA does the best job of making the most of teeny spaces.

And as if that weren't enough, next we went to Lenox Mall. We really both pretty much hate malls, so it's very rare that we enter one, but Lenox has some pretty cool things aaannnnddd it was part of our old stomping grounds (and most of all, the main reason we went is it has Anthropologie). First thing, we sat with a Starbucks and people watched. This is a particularly fabulous activity at Lenox Mall. You will never get bored. We saw Emma's Santa- still there after seven years, looking as fabulous as ever.

And, the creme de la creme, Anthropologie. Without a doubt, my favorite store. Clay said that he loved watching me in there. I'm pretty sure I touched every item in the store and there were lots of exclamations. I love to plan what my home and wardrobe will be like in heaven, and getting out being spoiled with a few sale items by my giving husband never hurt anyone either. I know, I'm spoiled, but I've just got to let him use my love language!

And finally, the day ended at one of our favorites the Buckhead Diner. Double yum.

PIMENTO CHEESE "FRITTERS"
+ spicy pimento jelly

LOCAL MESCLUN GREENS
apples + candied walnuts + raspberry vinaigrette
+ crispy goat cheese fritters

WOOD FIRED U.S.D.A. PRIME N.Y. STRIP SIRLOIN STEAK 12 oz + twice baked Yukon asiago potatoes

JAMES BEARD AWARD WINNING WHITE CHOCOLATE BANANA CREAM PIE all by itself

We split everything up and ate every last bit. We really tried not to lick the plates. double YUM.

And then, it was back home. A long, very fun day, seeing our old stomping grounds and enjoying each other during one of the longest dates of the decade. Definitely the longest date in about five years. Ahhhh. We'll just savor that!

The Risk/Benefit Assessment

2011-12-07T06:30:00.000-05:00

You know, the old risk/benefit assessment... for example, does the benefit of taking a particular drug outweigh the potential risk involved. Well, I take this risk/benefit assesment tool into regular every day life.

For example, does the benefit of letting the kids go out into the "muddy swamp" after being cooped up for a day and a half of rain, outweigh the risk of... well... you can imagine the risks involved here.

Once you have made the decision that the benefit of, say, letting your children paint and craft outweighs the risk of having a complete nightmare disaster, there's no turning back. You are committed, you've weighed the options and, now, you are not allowed to grumble or moan when the risk comes to fruition.

Perhaps this is why my best friend calls me "Montessori Mom" or why my friends alway send their kids over in ragged clothes with changes of clothes available. So, maybe I have a reputation. But, you gotta let kids live, and if you're gonna let them live, you can't turn into mean mommy when they come to the back door looking like a lagoon monster.

That's the moment when you are thankful for the benefit, and you matter of factly take them through the steps to clean themselves up. There's no need to panic. You've already calcuated the risk. And yes, you probably will have a lot to clean up yourself too, but they're going to get it, as long as you don't huff and puff and you require them to do as much as they can with your guidance.

I'm thrilled that the kids got to spend an hour out in the swamp today. They needed that. And it's okay that I had to clean the mud out of shower while I took a shower after my wonderful 15 minute workout. And I really needed to wash the shower curtain anyway.

No, I'm not perfect. I'm not always patient. But, I HAVE had a lot of practice reacting to natural disasters. And I hope I get better and better at it over time.

Don't Forget

2011-12-06T16:04:00.001-05:00

To check out my cute new feature on the sidebar.
The latest is Thomas' greatest new achievement!

Look for new "Woody Shorts" every so often...

It's That Time Again

2011-12-06T06:24:00.001-05:00

Emma at Lennox Mall.

Grant at Discover Mills.

Lily at Chick Fil A.

Parker at Publix.

Jules at Chick Fil A.

Thomas, you guessed it, Chick Fil A.

And... last but not least, Peanut at Dickey's Barbecue (it was free).

We HEART Lamplighter Publishing

2011-12-05T15:02:00.001-05:00

I would highly recommend you ordering a catalogue from Lamplighter Publishing this Christmas and checking it out. These are great read alouds for the whole family, and in my case, great just to read every night in bed.

You will be inspired by these old stories that Lamplighter edits and republishes for the modern English reader. When you get the catalogue, you will find books grouped by age, by gender, and in other useful ways to find what best suits your purposes.

All of the books are Christian and life-changing in nature. I never read "Christian" books until now because I typically find them poorly written or terribly cheesy, but these are stories that this avid reader devours. I admit that some are a bit didactic, but even those are so sweet in nature that they are irresistible. They were all bestsellers in their time- usually the 1800's or early 1900's when writing was arguably at it's best.

We joined the book of the month club almost a year ago now, and I can't wait for the next one to come in the mail every time. Try one or two out and go from there. You ARE what you READ.

So... go check Lamplighter Publishing out.

Their new audio dramas are fantastic as well.

Such Suffering. Such Brokenness.

2011-12-03T19:28:00.001-05:00

The thing about suffering without Christ rather than suffering for and with Him, is that you are alone in your suffering. And the suffering at times becomes unbearable.

You see, everyone is going to suffer. The question is, will your suffering have meaning, or will it leave you hopeless and in despair?

My heart is heavy for a young friend who lost his dad to suicide recently. My prayers are for him and his family. I really don't know the details of the situation, but I can imagine the hopelessness and fear that drives a grown man, father and husband to end his life.

Oh, the brokenness of our culture, of our world. Let us be diligent in prayer in this special season, as we reflect on Christ's brokenness for us, for those we know that are without hope.

Christ left His kingly position, became weak and frail as a human, allowed His body to be broken for us, who had no ability to love Him as we ought. There is great hope in the message of Christmas. Great and true hope. Enduring hope.

We will all suffer on this broken earth.

Will you suffer with Christ on your side, comforting you, leading you and giving you purpose? Or will you suffer alone, increasing in hopelessness, and ending in despair?

Good News Gingerbread

2011-12-02T17:14:00.001-05:00

My kids get to go to the best Good News Club ever down the street at a friend's house who goes to our church. She is a very creative and young grandmother who is always doing things for all the kids.

This week at Good News Club, the kiddos got to make gingerbread houses. Thanks Nell!

If you haven't heard of Child Evangelism Fellowship, look it up. It's a fantastic organization that gives you the training and materials to hold Good News Clubs. Clay and I both used to do it in out teens.

Ahhh... The Ever Infamous "Thomas Tizzy"

2011-12-01T20:45:00.000-05:00

While taking pictures of screaming babies is not my favorite hobby, it can be a bit hard to avoid with Sir Thomas. I was trying to take these the other day because I was so proud of Thomas for learning to climb up onto the playset. Guess he wasn't so keen on it. Pretty much if Thomas is doing something on his own and sees me, he starts screaming. He literally wishes for me to hold him all day and has been doing this for about 18 months. When Thomas spazzes out (at least a dozen times a day) we call this the Thomas Tizzy.

His occupational therapist suggested that we give him a lot of deep pressure, squeezes and massage every couple hours to help him venture out on his own- this is part of a kind of sensory disorder. This seemed to work at first and then she felt like we could back off on it. Not so much. I've been trying to give him a lot more pressure, but really don't feel like I can squeeze him 12 hours a day, which I think he'd appreciate, so I am going to aske her about getting a weighted vest for him to wear sometimes.

Older kids like him will carry a heavy backpack around or push a heavy wheelbarrow or do some kind of heavy work. They make weighted blankets for babies. We just need to keep trying to find the magic trick to meet his sensory input needs so that he can venture out on his own and play. The Thomas Tizzy is absolutely no fun, so hopefully we'll find a way to get this little guy through this.

Killing Babies Like Thomas

2011-11-30T20:32:00.001-05:00

I've been thinking about this lately- do people REALLY abort children because they have special needs? Actually, apparently they do. It's estimated that over 90% of the women who find out their babies are Downs after amnio abort them.

Yuck. That hurts. To think that someone would get rid of someone like Thomas because their IQ is going to be low. That pains my heart and tears my guts out. As difficult as Thomas can be, he is a blessing and we will keep him forEVER.

Read this article on the "continued assault on downs syndrome" and then reread my post, "Valued For Usefulness", and then go hug a special needs baby and say a prayer for the unborn.

This article will rock your world. And if we ever get to adopt those two precious little ones in Russia, I want so badly to give that mamma that bore them a big hug. There are an estimated 4.3 abortions per live birth in Russia and HIV babies are tossed to the side. Lord, have mercy on us.

A Homestudy Snippet

2011-11-30T06:00:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow, we are having our homestudy visit and interview at our house. Here's a little snippet of some of the things I already have answered on paper for you to get a little behind the scenes view of adoption. I edited a few confidential items, but you'll get the general idea.

Describe your personality:

I am a generally high energy personwith a lot of drive and efficiency, yet most people describe me as laidback. While I am the type of person whoschedules the entire day out, I am not rules oriented. I am a lover of family- my husband andchildren, but not overly social. I amhappy to be hospitable and constantly have people in my home, but I rechargethrough times of quiet. I am content andhappiest to be at home. I like to laughand have a good sense of humor. I am disciplined and an achiever. I love life and am generally happy with life,no matter what comes my way.

Describe your spouse’s personality:

My husband is the nicest guy you’llever meet. He is compassionate and caresabout how others feel. He is a listener.He is extremely silly with the kids and the one to get up in the middle of thenight with them. He is very sensitive towards others and extremelythoughtful. He is definitely laid backin nature. He is a server and a helper, always ready to help someone whoasks. He is a big time giver, always hasbeen. He is a leader at work and at home. He is very conscientious, ethical,and has a very strong sense of right and wrong in his own personal life.

What do you feel are the strongpoints in your marriage?

We are completely committed to eachother. We have a deep history, havingknown each other and been good friends since middle school. We love each otherand we have a shared vision for our family. We really agree on most everything from how to school the children, tohow to welcome children into our home, to where to go out on a date. We are unusuallycompatible. I think we are unique in how we work together without having to”assign” jobs, and how we just enjoy being together, how we learn to sacrificefor each other. My parents told me when I was as young as 12 years old that Ishould marry him, and they were right!

What qualities doyou appreciate most in your spouse?

His serving and giving nature. His devotion to me and the kids and hisdevotion to the Lord. His ability tosacrifice without complaint. His sweetnessand silliness with the children. His consistencyin work and at home. His selflessness.

What activities doyou enjoy separately from your spouse?

I am a painter, an artist by training,and love painting and drawing. I am an avid reader and love reading before bed. I love taking photos of the kids andblogging about our life. I also loveworking out and fit in a short and intense workout 5-6 days a week.

Why are youapplying for adoption?

A friend pointed us toward apicture and description of this particular child on a website advocating forHIV positive orphans and we both instantly thought that he might be our child.We began pursuing his adoption immediately and in the process learned that hehas a sibling. The Russian require that hislittle brother must be adopted with him, and we are happy to bring him into ourhome as well.

At this time, whattype of child do you feel you can parent? (age, race, sex)

At this point we are only pursuingthis almost 5 year old and his brother (2 years old) who are Caucasian, have “normal”orphanage developmental delays, and are both HIV+, but we are open to anychildren the Lord would have for us regardless of age, race or sex, ordisability.

What are your expectations for the child?

I expect that these children willhave a certain degree of difficulty in dealing with such a change in their livesas moving across the world and being placed in a different environment. I imagine that there will be manydifficulties to work through as we help them learn to trust us and assimilateinto our family. I imagine that we will have to go through quite a lot ofdoctor’s visits initially to get their medications for HIV right. I have beenclosely involved with families adopting older children internationally and haveseen the best and the worst of it, including RAD and sexual and/or physical abuseof younger siblings. We plan to guidethem through healing from any abuse they could have suffered. I hope that their joy will increase and theirconfidence will grow as we serve and love them as a family.

How will you handle the situation if your child does notmeet your expectations?

We plan to handle these little oneswith a lot a grace, understanding and compassion. We know throughout life, all of our childrenwill come across difficult times. Astheir parents we are committed to helping them get through these times with oursupport, prayers and guidance. We alsodepend on friends, family members and our church to support us as we do this.We plan to be as prepared as possible for their needs and to also be vigilantto protect the children born to us already from harm as we help these little ones through this transition.

What things could you absolutely could not accept in achild?

I can accept anything in a childthat I sense the Lord has called me to care for. I have absolute faith in His sovereignty andstrength to give me the ability to care for those He will entrust me withregardless of psychological, physical or mental difficulties they mayhave. This is not because of my own strengthsand abilities, but because of the faithfulness He has shown me throughout mylife.

Why?

I recognize that all humans arebroken and have difficulties in life. I also don’t define a person’s worth bytheir “usefulness”. We need each otherand the Lord as we walk through life. Everyone, no matter how disabled orbroken is a beautiful piece of life and gives us all compassion and joy.

What are your views on religion, and what is its role inyour life?

I am a Christian and my life islived to please and honor the Lord with a special view towardrealizing that this world is temporary, while heaven is eternal.

What is your greatest fear concerning adoption?

I really don’t like leaving my children,so I realize that having to travel twice to Russia will be difficult.

A Six Year Old Lily

2011-11-29T14:39:00.001-05:00

Sweet Lily. I just knew when she was in my tummy that her name was Lily. Little did I know, after having two dark haired, dark eyed babies, that she'd come out pale, blonde, and blue. The perfect lily. She is as sweet as she is fair.

I bought her birthday present months ago from someone I knew that was selling her Bitty Twins. I told her I wanted them even though I didn't know which ones they would be. Needless to say, I was thrilled when I picked them up and they were the blonde ones she'd been dreaming about. The Lord is good and she LOVES them!

She's a different kind of a bird. She asked for a lemon poppyseed cake that I whipped up once on the spur of the moment with blueberry greek yogurt in it. Then she didn't eat a bite. (She's like me when I was little and doesn't have much of a sweet tooth.) Oh well, everyone else ate it up. Especially Fatso. I mean Peanut. I mean Baby Jackson. What a sweetie.

Too Good Not to Post

2011-11-28T14:54:00.001-05:00

My friend Windy's kids always crack me up. Although I am not registered on Facebook (I have nothing against Facebook, I just don't use it much), I look at Clay's on average once a week to check up on my peeps.

I'm never disappointed by Windy's posts about her precocious little children, like this one:

Me:Pressly, IF I get you a new nightgown for Christmas, does it HAVE to haveprincesses on it or could it have other stuff?

Pressly: Oh, it could have a pony and a unicornsharing an apple with a kitten crawling up from underneath nibbling the bottom.That would be my favorite.

UhOK...I'll look for that...

What's not to love about that. If I had a monogramming/applique machine, I would totally be making that.

Star Gazers

2011-11-27T14:05:00.001-05:00

A Paradox

2011-11-26T20:01:00.001-05:00

I've been thinking over a conversation I had with a college student recently, who pretty much has ingrained in him the same ideals and beliefs that most every other kids his age has. Most children in their late teens and younger believe that abortion is necessary and good at least in the case of rape or incest.

This particular friend told me that he was strongly pro-choice, first of all because a woman's body is her own. To which I really had to say, no actually it is not. And not only is a woman's body not her own, but a life created in her body is definitely not her own, but the property of the Lord our gracious creator.

Well, he says, definitely a woman should have an abortion in the case of rape or incest. She shouldn't have to live with the reminder of that man and what he did.

This is the classic statement, but here is where I will argue that there is a paradox of ideas. I said to him, Well, you really might be surprised. I just want to present before you the idea that she actually may find her salvation through carrying that baby. Not salvation in the sense of the spiritual, necessarily, but in the sense of healing and renewal.

It's the opposite of what we would initially think. You see, God is our Creator, and He values life. He desires that we place as much value on this creation as He does. Because following His ways always leads to life, I would venture to say that in some mysterious way, a woman who carries a product of rape or incest, will find some kind of healing and freedom.

On the other hand, the woman who is encouraged to do what most people would, and abort the baby, might quickly come to realize the pain and sorrow in trying to right a wrong with a wrong. Please don't misunderstand me, I don't want to minimize that amount of pain and agony a woman must feel in either case. In faith, I believe that the better way would be the way of life.

You can see lots of people's testimonials online- just google search it, and you will find people who made the choice for life and those who chose death and the extra pain that followed. This is a very touchy subject and it is good to approach it with compassion. If you have had an abortion, like so many women have, this does not mean the Lord will not heal and renew you. He loves and cherishes you and knows our weakness. We are all weak and we ALL fall into sin daily, and yet He loves us when we come to Him for healing. He is the God of Compassion and Forgiveness.

One of the most touching angles to see in this search, was to see a lady who is all grown up and the "product" of a rape. Whe is living for the Lord, loving Him, serving her family. Her mother chose life and it is so amazing to see what came out of that.

The thing that I encouraged that young friend to think about is something I am constantly considering and battling with: When you think something is right in your own mind or in the counsel of the world, the truth is most likely the very opposite.

If I get there first, I will get the best deal for myself.

If I tell my husband what to do, everything will run much more smoothly (this is my personal favorite).

If I don't tithe, we will have enough money for our car payment.

If I have fewer kids, I will be able to disciple them better.

If I take care of my own issues first, then I can serve others.

Fill in the blank...

Best and Worst Wednesday

2011-11-23T19:38:00.001-05:00

Today, I am joining a fellow blogger in a little fun via "Best and Worst Wednesday"

Best thing (about every day?): Peanut, of course.

Worst: When Poor Baby Nut-Nut is teething!

Best thing: Making Mimi's famous Praline Souffle Sweet Potatoes

Worst: Having to wait until tomorrow to eat them.

Best thing: Gary, our neighbor fixing all of our broken windows today.

Worst: Not being able to outgive him (even with this basket of goodies I did for him once when wanting to pretend to be a generous English woman from the 1800's)

Best thing: Getting to see our new baby lima bean and hearing her? heartbeat.

Worst thing: Spending hours going to get fingerprinted for the FBI check for adoption and not being able to get my prints (whoever heard of that !?!)

Best thing: Going on a Thanksgiving trip tomorrow.

Worst: Nausea.

Best thing: A husband who is helpful, caring, and hardworking.

Worst: Not thanking him nearly enough.

What's your best and worst?

PS... From the FBI:

"Worn fingerprints:

An individual, by the nature of their work or age, may have very thin or worn ridges in the pattern area. Apply light pressure and use very little ink to record these types of fingerprint impressions. A technique known as "milking the finger" can be used to raise the fingerprint ridges prior to printing. This technique involves applying pressure or rubbing the fingers in a downward motion from palm to fingertip."

Perhaps my career as an artist, in printmaking and oil painting, dealing with solvents and chemicals has scarred my right fingers? Or maybe all the cleaning I do? I will be wearing gloves when I clean and avoiding all chemicals and lotion, and we will try again in a week or so!

Girl Toys

2011-11-22T07:13:00.001-05:00

I know that Christmas gifts are on the brain right now for most of us. When you have a lot of people in a little space, you've got to decide what to collect and what not to keep. We've pretty much whittled our girl choices down to these three things and what goes with them. Although our choices are a bit expensive, you can find them used and they are much higher quality than many other choices out there.

First are the Calico Critters. These are the sweetest little things and the girls LOVE playing with them. They are happy, family oriented, and innocent.

Then, there are the Only Hearts Club. We have only just begun collecting these, and you have to get them online- occasionally they show up at Target around Christmas though. These are the ANSWER to the Barbie dilemma. Their clothes are modest, super cute and much much higher quality than Barbie. Their bodies are soft, poseable and non-anatomical. They have little sisters and they are just plain friendly. Not sassy.

And of course, American Girl dolls. The girls are crazy about these, and Emma has been in an American Girl Club for a couple of years with other homeschooled girls, which Lily has joined us in. We love the stories, love the dolls and have never bought one brand new. The best way is to scour craigslist. LOVE it.

Our God Reigns

2011-11-21T15:16:00.001-05:00

We've really been hit at every way imaginable in this journey towards picking up these two boys in Russia. Not in a way that makes us sense the Lord is not leading us toward them, but in a way that is clearly seen as temptation to not trusting in God's power, sovreignty and perfect plan.

The latest was the $500 electric bill last week. We were pretty floored as it is usually $200 at this time of year. We called the power company and they said to check our breaker switches while one person stood outside watching the meter. Well, the meter was running like crazy and Clay starting flipping switches. All of the sudden it slowed dramatically and we knew that was the switch. We don't even know what it goes to yet and it's definitely not anything we're using... so another big power bill will come this month from the mystery switch.

The little voice I heard said: you can't afford to adopt... Immediately I saw that as yet another temptation, another way out of what we see the Lord leading us to. And I just prayed, Lord you own EVERYTHING in the world, You have everything in your hands... you can give us much more than the enemy can take away and I'm asking you to make that evident.

The next day at church, after the service, a woman turned around to tell me something. We know her and her husband through a Sunday School class we were in together a couple of years ago. I would certainly call her a friend, but we don't have daily or even monthly contact with each other. They are a sweet family with a modest income and small children living a life of faith.

She told me her husband and she had felt led by the Lord to give us a certain amount of money towards this adoption. I told her that while I had sold a personal belonging and we can cover the home study, if we are approved we will need a lot of money pretty fast. She said that the Lord had just really laid it on their hearts and it was there for us. She told me a very large amount and just the whole thing was too much for me and I began to sob.

There are so many elements there that touched me. The Lord's answer to prayer. The amazing goodness of the people in our church and their obedience to sacrifice for the Lord. The idea that maybe we will actually need this money, that one of the agencies will accept us after our homestudy. But most of all seeing the Holy Spirit work in a fellow believer in the same way He would work in us.

That someone with limited resources would give their bonus check to someone else when there's so many things they could want for. I couldn't even tell the kids on the way home, Clay had to... I just can't talk about it without crying. If nothing else, Our God reigns.

Ephesians 6:10-13

^"10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. ¹¹ Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. ¹² For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. ¹³ Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand."

My Children Are Vikings

2011-11-18T14:56:00.001-05:00

Yes, my dad's people are from Minnesota, and yes, I am a quarter Swedish, but that's not really what I mean. My children have turned into vikings over the past hour. There is some serious historical fiction going on right now at Woody Baby Farm.

Right now, we are listening to Story of The World, Volume 2 on Tuesdays and Thursdays (thanks Holly, for letting us borrow). We listen to one chapter a week, two times, and orally answer the questions from the activity book. On one of the days, the kids might do a color page or map from the activity book while they listen. Then, occasionally we do one of the bigger crafts or projects when the mood strikes.

This week was Vikings, thus we made the Viking flat bottomed ship.

It's cute how when you give the children the historical material and talk about it, how they weave truth into their play. Although there is a Polly Pocket riding in Lily's boat and a Calico Critter in Emma's, there is discussion about why Greenland was named Greenland when it's so icy, and what seas they might cross.

Young children learn a lot through play, so try giving them the information they need- just enough that they can understand and remember it, make something fun they can be proud of and creative with, and let them run from there. You might be surprised about what they talk about.

Our history plan cycles through the beginning of civilization until the present, three times. There is plenty of time for writing papers later. We'll hit the Vikings again two more times before graduating highschool. And when they're writing that research paper in highschool about the founding of Greenland, they'll say: hey, remember when we made those boats and we....

They'll probably have little brothers and sisters running around them with their own boats and they'll be shushing the little buggers.

Words Cannot Express

2011-11-17T19:45:00.001-05:00

How Excited we are to be carrying a baby that hopefully will be born to us in June!

Eight weeks ago this Saturday, I took a positive pregnancy test. The next day, I miscarried. Four weeks ago this Saturday, I took a positive pregnancy test, and this little one is growing strong.

That will make me approximately eight weeks pregnant on Saturday.

So far, I am doing well, consistently able to fight off nausea before it gets too bad, and fighting the fatigue with slow living and diligent and hard exercise (and a very early bedtime!)

The children and Clay are thrilled and I am so blessed to have so many little pray-ers day after day, remembering me and this little one. I am so thankful to get the chance to welcome another brand new little one and hope this one gets to come to us safely!

I was well aware when we were first interested in adopting these two little Russian boys that I would most likely be pregnant during the process and I have always been well aware that adoption agencies and orphanages and foreign judges have acute allergic reactions to pregnant people. But, it is what it is, I am not going to avoid God's creation of a new life in order to adopt, we just haven't felt called that way.

If those little boys are ours, God is going to turn the hearts of people towards us and He is going to pave a way.

In the meantime, we are so grateful that the Lord gives good gifts to us, even without having to prove ourselves, or convince a judge, or persuade an agency. I believe He can do the same thing through adoption. He is the giver of Good Gifts and He is the one who puts children in families.

We do not deserve any of our children, nor do they belong solely to us. They are His and we are their guardians. We promise to be faithful to care for any children He might put in our charge, by His glorious grace.

Warm Leafy Afternoons

2011-11-16T13:24:00.001-05:00

Little Do They Know (and I hope someone tells them)

2011-11-15T15:23:00.001-05:00

We received two letters this week, one from Teyeisi and one from Steven, both in Kenya. I am always so touched when I hear how they are praying for our family. Teyiesi will be nine soon and Steven is seven. They are part of Compassion International's program, which I would highly recommend you get involved with. Without a doubt, the sustaining prayers of these little children and the knowlege that they are being fed mentally, spiritually and physically greatly outweighs the financial cost of a monthly sponsorship.

Steven and Teyeisi know that we pray for them regularly. We know that they are thinking of us and praying for us, and that kind of relationship is amazing with someone you've never met, but someone who cares.

But then there are two little boys, living across the world in Siberia who are cared for, yet they have no idea. They don't know that a family full of children is praying fervently for them. They don't know that there are parents that are selling their worldly possessions to pay for the chance of bringing them home. They have no idea that phone calls are being made, emails sent, background checks done, files procured, all for them.

The thing that I wish though, is that they would know. That if an agency or a judge declines us for having too many young children or this or that, that they would have to be the ones to go to those precious ones and say: I'm really sorry, there is a family that was willing to risk everything and give everything for you, but I just really didn't think they were a good fit. I'm sorry, they wanted to bring you home, they cared for you from afar. They love being parents and wanted to include you in their family, but... Sorry.

I don't say this in a spiteful or sarcastic way, but to show the reality of what is happening and what may happen. These are "unwanted" children we've been drawn to and it is likely that they will remain institutionalized if we don't bring them home. We trust that the Lord knows the right place for them and what is right for our family. But, I do wish they knew someone cared.

Psalm 68:6

" God sets the lonely in families,
he leads out the prisoners with singing.."

Commit Your Way to the Lord and/or Stress Does Not Equal Success

2011-11-14T14:26:00.001-05:00

It is a very common thing to see in the homeschool world: parents stressing themselves and their children out to the max. This starts from the very beginning. I am here to say that stress does not mean success. Our culture tends to equate these two things, when in truth and reality, great success will usually come from the quality of one's life and not the quantity of things crammed into one's life.

The hardest thing to learn is how to prioritize and simplify your children's education, to challenge them, but not stress them out. There is no reason for a little one to be pushed to the edge day after day in their education. It's not healthy, and also not profitable. I have learned this in a concrete way recently through the workouts I've been doing.

I used p90x for a couple of years until recently I switched to a different form of exercise called high intensity interval training or HIIT. In p90x, I worked out for 1-1.5 hours a day 6 days a week. In HIIT I workout 12-25 minutes a day 5 days a week. I'm going to let you guess which has made me stronger and more energetic, all the while giving me more time. Quality over quantity, efficiency, care in planning.

I'm not advocating that you just willy-nilly educate your children and keep things casual and aimless. To get a quality of education without overdoing the quantity, you have to do your research and try a lot of different things. Go to homeschool conferences, read books, educate yourself in learning styles and methods and choose what is best for your specific children and your family as a whole.

Then, just keep doing a little better every day, streamlining all the way, until you have a well oiled machine. We are on a journey towards that, and I have to say that having started when Emma was K4, has given me a lot of opportunity to try things and change things. Now that she's in 3rd, Grant's in 2nd, Lily's in K5, and Parker's in K4, I am continually getting more of a handle on what is good and beneficial and what we can do without.

The point here is to be proactive, do your best every day and strive every day to do a little better than yesterday. Just a little better day after day will work up to really great as time goes by. Don't give up, don't despair, resist fruitless comparisons. Really get down to the essentials:

Being a hard worker and having a good attitude.

Being able to read and write well.

Knowing how to learn and research.

Understanding necessary mathematics.

Because, face it, you have no idea what you "learned" in state history in 3rd grade, but if you learned through it how to write, or find answers, or complete work in a timely manner, it was useful.

You might not remember any lines from Othello, but if reading it or acting it out helped you in your public speaking ability or understanding of the English language, it was useful.

Nobody needs to panic. Your fourth grader doesn't need to memorize the entire periodic table today. All of this learning is good, but doesn't need to be crammed in. They definitely won't remember it in that case. Teach them to learn and they will have a lifelong gift. Teach them to love to learn. You can't do this through the stress-out-the-elementary-schooler method.

Trust me, whether you sit your child down for 15 minutes of physics or 1 hour at the age of 9, they are only going to remember the first fifteen minutes. Strive for quality. Streamline. You will really need to research and educate yourself to do this, but you can do it a step at a time.

Just be consistent and do a little better every day.

You'll be glad you did.

^"Commit to the LORD whatever you do,
and he will establish your plans."

Proverbs 16:3

A Visit With Lucy and Bella

2011-11-12T20:02:00.001-05:00

Remember Lucy and Bella? Our little baby goats that we bottle fed and had for about seven months? We got to go up to the farm today for a visit with them and I think even after months, they still knew us! Clay was so happy to see his girls!

Thomas is crazy about being outdoors these days so he loved tramping all over the farm.

All the kids were tickled to see our girls. Even Peanut, who was just a nursing infant when we had them giggled and laughed.

Thomas couldn't get enough of gathering sticks.

Grant loved those girls as much as his daddy did, so he was thrilled.

Turns out, Lucy and Bella are having babies this winter, so maybe we'll get to be goat foster parents if they need to be bottle fed.

If you want to see when Lucy Bella lived here at Woody Baby Farm, click on the Lucy-Bella link on the sidebar under labels... you might get a good laugh. It was quite an adventure!

A Glimmer of Indian Summer

2011-11-10T19:26:00.001-05:00

Even though the day began and ended with cold overcast weather, the sun sure did come out for our midday break. In full force. What's not to love about living in the South? Shorts and flops in November, doesn't get much better than that.

Thomas, Peanut and I sat up on the driveway basking in the glorious, mystically soothing path of rushing wind, rustling leaves and falling colors. (I know, I know that's SO dramatic...) Aaaaaah. Perfect Peace. I live to be outside. Thomas was entranced. He just laid back and stared. Peanut was too busy crawling through leaves looking for something suitable to chew on to notice. Thank you Lord for a Indian Summer Glimmer.

Wit's End

2011-11-09T20:05:00.000-05:00

I don't really have anything funny or clever or useful to say. We are having happy and busy days here at Woody Baby Farm. Our home is a place that friends and neighbors come in and out of daily to keep us company and to be refreshed. We love being in a place where people know we will be home and know they are welcome.

Any extra thoughts I have these days are preoccupied with two little boys on the other side of the world. It is a strenuous process to attempt an impossible adoption. There are lots of phone calls. Lots and lots of phone calls. Tons of emails. Thousands of prayers.

We are pursuing the adoption of two little boys in Russia, truly against all odds. I really don't want to get specific with the issues we are facing, but we both still feel drawn towards these children and towards making every attempt to bring them home, despite the difficulties stacked up against us.

Because we are carefully and closely awaiting the Lord's every urging and leading, we are pressing on in faith. Hopefully we will be starting a homestudy soon, if the Lord continues to lead us that way. This homestudy will cost us a few thousand dollars and may end up with no adoption, but we feel it may be a necessary risk and worth it for two little ones who have absolutely nothing and because everything we have is the Lord's.

We sold something dear today that will pay for this study, so we will keep listening, praying, watching the Lord's moves and try our best to discern His way for us to go. You can pray with us. One day when all of this is over, I will share more details, but for now we'll just see what the Lord brings our way.

Speaking of Sacrificial Love

2011-11-08T05:58:00.001-05:00

photo by Courtney

While we're on the topic of sacrificial love, I have been so encouraged by Lily's spirit more and more. Lily has a special gift of sacrifice and service. She is the first to offer to give something of hers to one of her siblings when theirs broke, got lost, was taken...

Emma's lollipop got crushed when I dropped it in an attempt to open it. Lily immediately offered hers. Juliana crumpled up her sticker and then cried. Lily immediately gave Jules her own perfect sticker. This kind of thing happens all the time and Lily's response is always the same.

The other day, I jokingly said to her: would you stop being so nice!? And then I praised her for this special gift she's been given by the Lord. She has professed faith in Him and the evidence of the Holy Spirit growing her is fascinating to watch.

She has a special gift and we are truly blessed by it.

Sacrificial Love

2011-11-06T19:06:00.001-05:00

I've discovered some interesting things in this journey towards Russian adoption. One of the things I found, that was surprising at first glance, but then so obvious, was a very distinct difference in Russian and American culture.

Even though our American culture is despised by many other peoples, there is still a lingering foundation that our forefathers left in us. One of these distinctions is sacrificial love. Our history is rich with sacrificial love: a man dying for his country, people giving up the comforts of European life to make a new better life for their families, courage, faith, selflessness... left and right we see examples of this kind of love.

Although our country is steeped in this sort of thought, the Russians are not. They have had a difficult history that was not built on the love of Christ, who is the ultimate example of sacrificial love. They have a past filled with trying to make things fair and even, yet teeming with underlying greed and deceit. It's every man for himself.

So, it shouldn't have surprised me when I heard about the interview one family had by the Russians before they adopted. The woman and man were both sequestered for 4-5 hours each with questioning. The bottom line was, why would they want to adopt an HIV positive child? The Russians suspected that they were taking these children to our country as guinea pigs for testing.

Their minds just couldn't wrap around this notion that even unbelievers in our country have ingrained in them. That we would want to sacrifice for another human being simply out of love and compassion. It was such a foreign concept to a people who have spent centuries uninspired.

I am thankful to live in this place, where our people still have the lingering scent of our courageous and faith-filled forefathers. We may be stepping farther and father away from the truth, but it is still there. Rich in our past and ready to be renewed and reclaimed.

The Thomas Whisperer

2011-11-05T07:42:00.000-04:00

Our current neighbor in the missionary house (aka Booger's dad, Gary) has a very unusual and special touch with our little Thomas. While his therapists have been working for months to get the most miniscule eye contact out of Thomas, to Gary this comes naturally.

He has this special and mysterious connection with Thomas and Baby Peanut, that causes them to stare right into his eyes. My therapists were shocked when they heard about Thomas gazing into his eyes for thirty seconds at a time. The only other person he'll do this with are mommy and daddy.

Yesterday, I was completely out of commission. Thomas scratched my cornea on Thursday night and I was, in all practicality, blind in both eyes until this morning. Clay was a champion and took me to the doctor twice, Gary babysat the little babies, and Clay took care of the whole brood all day. I have an awesome husband. I've never been in that much pain.

Last night, Gary played outside with Thomas for an hour, raking up little piles of leaves and throwing them in the air, making little Thomas hysterical. He would let Thomas anticipate the throwing of the leaves and bounce around, begging for more. And over and over and over they went. Apparently he got at least fourteen eye contacts out of Thomas. Which, I think is more than all his therapist combined get over a couple of months.

What can I say, he's the Thomas Whisperer.

It's Okay to Enjoy Your Calling

2011-11-03T07:24:00.000-04:00

Just because something is difficult and strenuous in life, doesn't mean you can't enjoy it. When you are following the Lord with your life, you will come across trials, naysayers, and challenges. Yet, in all of this there is no reason you cannot choose joy!

Think of Paul in his chains, shipwrecked and beaten. Surely people would have said of him: Paul, this is just too hard. You must not be doing the will of the Lord. What did Paul say? "Rejoice in the Lord always, I will say it again rejoice!"

Why could he rejoice in such devastating circumstances? He had the faith to know that he was doing what was right, that he was following the Lord's call on his life, and that the eternal world matters so much more than this present world.

When you are following Christ, you will be called to do things that are greater than yourself. When people look at you in your weakness, they will see that there is no way you could handle it. But, that, my friend, is the point. It is by the power of the Holy Spirit alone that we accomplish the will of God, not by our own merits.

So, do not be discouraged when friends act like you're insane for: leaving a profitable lawer's position to go to seminary, giving a great deal of your salary to missions and living simply, staying in and studying when everyone else is partying, being ethical with your accounting, staying faithful to an unfaithful spouse, respecting an underserving employer, opening your home to the weak and the weary, having too many children...

Simply seek to follow the Lord's will in you life, listen to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, read His word and be inspired. Of course you are not strong enough to fulfill His plan. That is why He has given Himself to you.

You might be surprised by the hidden joy that there is in suffering with Christ. This is not the same kind of suffering as you experience when you are walking in your own ways. It is an exercise of faith that actually strengthens you, builds you up, and increases your joy. Do not fear.

Trick or Treat

2011-11-02T06:00:00.000-04:00

We HEART YWAM Publishing

2011-11-01T10:40:00.002-04:00

Prepare to be inspired by YWAM Publishing's "Christian Heroes: Then and Now".

These books are great for reading aloud to the whole family, to give yourself and your children an expanded view of faith, courage, and following the Lord's call no matter the cost. It's so important that we take our children out of this American culture that we live in and expose them to a greater culture of Christianity that crosses the boundaries of time and culture.

Think of these stories as an antidote to the inundation we get with our culture's materialism and narcissism. These are stories of people who sacrificed everything worldly to follow God's leading, and also recountings of God's faithfulness, protection and provision as He prepares the path for His children.

We started with George Muller and now we're reading Gladys Aylward and loving every minute. These stories are well written and easy for children to follow. In fact, the children beg me to keep reading to them anytime I have to stop! I have to admit, there are quite a lot of cliffhangers.

I know you will enjoy these and your lives will be enriched by them!

The Yin

2011-10-31T14:37:00.001-04:00

It might be...

that a certain someone's sweetness towards the babies...

outweighs his pestiness towards Parker.

Maybe.

Those Two

2011-10-29T16:09:00.001-04:00

It was only about a year ago that I sat in the kitchen debating whether or not to go out to the deck and break up a massive brawl between these two. Jules and her friend Ella Bean were up on the picnic table tugging a doll back and forth, literally both screaming at the top of their lungs.

So, I just sat there thinking, "Surely one of them will win." Three minutes later, the battle remained fierce and consistent. These two fireballs had met their match. I went out calmly and took the doll without a word and walked back in. Finis.

Now look at them, a year later, watching The Little Engine That Could in my bed, falling fast asleep.

There's some sweetness in there after all.

I Can't Help Falling In Love With You

2011-10-28T22:24:00.002-04:00

My spirit groans for the child I haven't met yet; this child we have fallen in love with. There is no way to explain it except for the Lord turning our hearts toward him.

There's a little boy all the way across the world who I fell in love with at first sight. One look at him and my heart said that he was mine and that I needed to go get him. I shared his information with Clay who immediately felt the same way.

So, for the last couple of weeks, we have been searching for him, and now that we have found his location, it seems it will be quite difficult to get him and bring him home. The thing is, I don't take no for an answer. If God leads me to do something, He will do it. There is no other option.

If this little boy we have so quickly fallen in love with is really ours, we are going to go get him. Everything we are doing in this process is going to have to be an exception. But, if the Lord calls us, He will make a way and we will bring that little one home.

Please pray with us. Pray that the Lord will protect him, care for him, comfort him, provide for him. Pray that He will clear the path. Pray that He will turn the hearts of the Russians towards us. Pray for the all that is unseen, that the Lord will grant His power and mercy towards this little boy.

Pray with us friends, you know I covet your prayers.

The Piano Bride

2011-10-27T16:55:00.000-04:00

We HEART Daily Language Review

2011-10-26T13:47:00.002-04:00

I admit, it's really hard to fit everything in that you want to when you're homeschooling. There are so many amazing resources available that the homeschooler's greatest challenge is to choose, edit, prioritize and streamline her education. If I actually did everything that I love, we would be schooling in our sleep.

I really like this Daily Language Review I'm using with Emma and Grant. They work as a team on the third grade level, and I instruct them as they go along. Each day, there are 5 problems that test their ability to understand analogies, edit sentences, comprhend the meaning of a word through context and much more. It is through this, that I briefly explain the rules of grammat.

This, then reinforces and enhances what they are already doing with reading and writing in literature, history, science and geography. Yet, it is very feasible to do. It takes only 5-10 minutes a day. Used consistently, this will build their knowlege and understanding of writing greatly without being a burden or taking the place of other things we would like to learn.

So, check it out. You might HEART it too.

The Path of Least Resistance

2011-10-25T16:24:00.000-04:00

Is this you? Are you trying to take the path of least resistance?

You're trying to make a perfect life for yourself and for your family. You have it all planned out just so.

No, I don't think we'll have any more children...

They really all need their own bikes, new clothes, and college savings accounts. We couldn't possibly put more than two kids per room. We only have one bathroom! What about our vacations? We really want them to play sports. I have a special needs child and I just don't want to "risk" having another. My husband hates it when I'm pregnant, life becomes very difficult for us.

No, I'm sorry I can't give to your missions work...

I've got this Lexus I'm making payments on, and well, that's just a little more important. We really need to add on to the house, and we were going to go skiing this winter. We're trying to put a lot into retirement right now, we really want to stop working at a reasonable age and live comfortably. Or maybe it's something else... sorry we can't give, we're in need too.

No, I really can't serve you at all...

I've got these soccer games, and then there's that party, and oh wait a minute I've got to go clothes shopping. We were just going to take it easy that day. I've got too many kids... I've got stuff to do on my own house... We would love to, but...

I'm not trying to say that we will all be called to exactly the same life, the same number of children, the same amount of giving and serving. I'm also not saying that I am oh-so-perfect and doing all the right things either, but I am inviting you to come along with me on a bumpy road. I am saying that if you are a believer and you are going to make a difference in people's lives and live to please the Lord, you are not going to be walking the path of least resistance.

It's really deceiving, though: The ones of you who think you are doing so well by creating a perfect life for yourselves are really living an illusion. Somehow it didn't turn out so great like you thought it would. Oh, it looks nice on the outside. It looks really nice. You seem like you're having a great time, but I know what's missing in there. A tremedous sense of peace, joy and purpose in suffering.

I was so inspired by our pastoral intern's message this Sunday. He was speaking of how Christ's suffering was different than ours. You see, Christ in His obedience to God became more and more alienated in his life as He approached the path of the cross. When He reached the cross, He was even abandoned by God Himself. How wretched was His suffering!

But because of His sacrifice, although we are called to walk a path of suffering with Him, our suffering brings us the deep companionship of our Heavenly Father. We have the fellowship of the saints and those who have gone to eternity before us cheering us on. We, with Christ, have a promise of a reason, purpose and ending to our suffering.

So why don't you leave the path of least resistance? Walk on this lovely path of suffering. The suffering does not compare with the riches of peace and joy that you will find here. It only gets better and better to walk in the will of the Lord and to learn to live sacrificially for Him.

How do I find this path? It's in His Word. He's laid it out for you because He loves you.

Like I tell my children, God tells us what to do and not to do, not because HE hates us and doens't know what's best for us! Not at all! He made us, He loves us dearly, and HE wants the absolute best for us. And guess what? He knows just what that is.

Like Steve Brown said, "When you can't trace His hand, trust His heart."

So, join me on this bumpy road. You'll be surprised at how wonderful it really is.

Baby Steps

2011-10-24T17:56:00.002-04:00

Ventures away from mamma to walk around and explore the world.

Holds his feet out when mamma starts to put on socks and shoes.

Can mimic "up, bye, baby, go, yay..." Claps.

Interacts regularly with brothers, sisters, mommy and daddy... even makes eye contact with therapists.

Little baby steps for most kids, giant leaps for Thomas!

The Housing Dilemma

2011-10-23T06:02:00.001-04:00

We love our house. It was built in 1940 as a church parsonage, and then moved down the street to our current lot and put on a basement in the 1980's. We live at the end of the road, going through a small neighborhood with modest homes and big lots. Although from the front our lot looks like a large neighborhood sized lot, We actually have almost 2 acres with hundreds of acres of woods and a major river behind us.

Our house has a special feeling. We noticed it the first time we walked in. I've had people tell me that before- maybe because it started out housing people of God. Whatever the reason, there is a good feeling to our house.

What's not my favorite? The fact that there is only one bathroom (and the potential of two). The size of the kitchen. And I would love a pool (who wouldn't). So, we keep our eyes out for a house with a lower price, or more bathrooms, or a bigger kitchen, or a pool...

As much as I love my house, it's not the house I would stay here for.

It would be really, really hard to leave this street. Sometimes, I almost think I would be happy with an outhouse (don't tell Clay) to be able to live with the people I do now. We have been so blessed by our neighbors:

We have a fabulous babysitter and a homeschooled best friend for Emma across the street. People who love the Lord. Our neighbors on our far side, most recently are our church. The house is being readied for missionaries to come live in on furlough. Lord willing, the first family will be one from Kenya, who have five kids, one of which is already Emma's friend. Could anybody ask for better friends for their kids?

On the other side of us is a sweet Christian family that is so dear to us and so serving and kind. Clay and I are fortunate to have these wonderful friends right next door. Then down the street are two more homeschooling families who are striving to raise their children to be godly and we love them and their kids. One has a Good News Club every Thursday and the other teaches my kids piano. It's like a party around here every afternoon. Kids running through the woods, swinging, playing their games.

Also, none of these families are overshedulers. Their kids are home. They don't sign up for activites and sports. Our kids all play together. Of course, none of our kids are perfect, but we are stiving toward the same goal. And none of us knew each other before we moved here. We all school differently, go to different churches...

I realize our situation is unique. And I think I just need to learn to be content with that one bathroom and cramped kitchen and cheesy intex above ground pool in the summer. Because there are some things that money can't buy and we've got them here.

Proverbs 17:1 "Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full of feasting, with strife."

Proverbs 15:17 "Better a meal of vegetables where there is love than a fattened calf with hatred."

The Love of My Life

2011-10-21T19:27:00.001-04:00

photo from FoodNetwork.com

Yes, my friends, my one true love is actually this delicious Caramel Cake by Paula Deen.

My sister makes me this cake after I have a baby, along with my friend Sandy who make me her amazingly awesome Hummingbird Cake. I think they are both hoping I'll never have another baby just for that reason. But, I do have to say that's about half the fun of a newborn. Cake for every meal. It's good for nursing ;).

Soooo, I DID happen to make Paula Deen's cake today. It's a bit time consuming and makes a huge mess, but absolutely worth the effort. I made it in honor of my friends that are coming for dinner tomorrow. They moved away to Charleston and we wish we could've kept them here!

I'm thinking about pretending I didn't make the cake and hiding it somewhere safe and secure. Then for sure, I could have it all to myself. Now, it would probably take me two weeks to eat that whole thing, but I could manage it. Yum. Mmmmm. Yummy.

When the Field Trip Came to my Door

2011-10-20T16:08:00.002-04:00

Unfortunately, today we had to miss my favorite fall field trip to Pisgah National Forest because the slots filled up so fast. But, we woke up to the long awaited sound of trucks on our road signalling its repavement.

So, we stopped the room cleaning, put Peanut in his nap and ran out the door, looking like it was winter. I've got some southern babies, for sure.

Thomas was completely enthralled with the steamroller and we walked through neighbor's yards all the way down the street to see them pave up to each driveway.

The middles were a bit nervous because Thomas kept running toward the action, but boy was he happy.

Lily is so protective of that baby. So sweet and beautiful.

So our field trip ran from 8:30-9 am and then we got back to business. What a beautiful morning, and thank the Lord we now have a beautiful road. I've been praying for that road for about a year now.

And then Julesie spied the moon. A perfect fall morning half moon.

Daddy's Girls

2011-10-20T06:00:00.000-04:00

That Elusive Balance

2011-10-19T06:37:00.001-04:00

I don't know if you're like me and you are constantly trying to find a balance in life.

My desire is to have a peaceful and productive life that honors the Lord. All too often, I find that we worldlings get caught up in a whirlwind because everyone else is doing it.

Academics are big right now for us. I am trying to find a balance and direction in our lives in this area. I am all for working hard, subduing the earth by using our minds, developing our gifts and talents, but not to the detriment of following the Greatest Commandment:

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’"

If a neighbor comes by and wants to talk and I feel like I can't because we've GOT to get science done, then we're missing the mark.

If we need to address a character issue in a child and all spend daily time talking together about trustworthiness and focusing solid time on the Lord, but we can't fit it in because we've got to rush to soccer, then we're missing the mark.

If we are not having people in our home regularly to minister to them and learn from them, because we're never there, we're missing the mark.

If a stranger knocks at our door, and we are too busy to engage with them and love on them, we are missing the mark.

Our society places too much importance on things that will not last. Yes, we need to educate our children, give them the opportunity to use their bodies, allow them to learn about music. These are all good things. But even too much of a good thing, well, we all know that's not good.

Your children's character, ethics, perseverance, all these things they can learn through academics, music and sports. But make sure it is the character you are focusing on. Be sure it is the perseverance that you are molding. Be on guard that your children's character and love for the Lord is placed over performance in any worldly ventures.

I just bet most of you cannot recite the periodic table to me right this minute, but for sure you are going to need to draw on your character today.

Try Not To Be TOO Jealous

2011-10-17T19:59:00.001-04:00

It's been confirmed. It's not just me. I do actually have the nicest baby ever known to mankind. You know I'm constantly bragging about how unbelievably wonderful Pea is. I tell everyone I meet that he's the nicest guy I've ever met in my life. Now I have witnesses to back me up.

At our homeschool co-op today, I dropped Pea off at the nursery and got a sneak peak in one of the cabinets at some sticky notes the care provider had written to help the volunteers know how to meet each child's needs. You know, helpful hints to keep the nursery running as smoothly as possible and avoid complete disaster.

A paraphrase of Baby Jackson's note is as follows:

Take care to note Jackson's schedule. He is such a good baby that he will not fuss if he is hungry or tired, so you need to make sure to feed him and give him his nap.

What a trouble maker.

Thomas is Two

2011-10-16T20:29:00.001-04:00

Sweet Thomas. So sincere. He was amazed by the two candles on his cupcakes.

He didn't know it was his birthday. He didn't notice all the presents, although he did really get into the plastic slinky for awhile. The highlight of his day was watching the frontloader next door work with his daddy.

But we and the children enjoyed celebrating for him. And being thankful for this precious baby that is so innocent. We love you, little Thomas and we will keep you forever.

It's Really a Nice CONCEPT

2011-10-15T10:48:00.002-04:00

You know, it really is a great concept. Not only are these energy saving lightbulbs, but they also claim on the package that they last for nine years. Nine whole years. That is, unless your children happen to knock over lamps constantly and break them every nine days.

Making Chore Time Fun

2011-10-14T08:00:00.000-04:00

Your really have to leave that up to the kids. Making choretime fun, that is. I am always encouraging my children that work is good, that God created us to work even in the Garden of Eden before the fall of man. I believe we will continue to work in heaven, without the curse that sin has brought on our labor. We will use and enjoy the skills and gifts the Lord has given us without stress and disappointment.

The girls got a little carried away this week with their mopping chore. They decided to dump out a whole tray of ice and play ice hockey with their rags. Well, they WERE having fun. I also often have to remind the children to be efficient and actually DO their job.

I set the timer for an amount of time that I think is ample+ for the job and tell them that I am thrilled that they are being cheerful and having a nice time, but they also need to actually finish their work. Sometimes, when a child seems to lagging purposefully, I just say cheerfully, "You need to finish in fifteen minutes. If you don't finish in fifteen minutes, I will find another job for you after this one, and set it for fifteen minutes, so that you can practice working efficiently." That usually takes care of things.

Somehow, kids seem to hvae an easy way about them of making a chore into a game if you just encourage them that way. Unloading the dishwasher often turns into a game of "Hot Fish" which I'm not even really sure how it works. But they seem to like it. They're happy, mamma's happy, so whatever works, I say works.

Completely Irrisistable

2011-10-13T08:49:00.002-04:00

A Natural Appetite

2011-10-12T20:13:00.003-04:00

While I definitely do not endorse exercise as a way to lose weight, I think of the sedentary aspect of our culture certainly has a role in people's appetites.

If you have read on this subject before here, you will know that the way that I approach the area of weight and eating. My long term goal is that I will truly be a thin eater. A thin eater doesn't think about food, they don't plan each and every meal, in fact they forget to eat until they're really hungry. They ften put off eating because they're busy doing something else... Thin eaters have only have a couple of rules: Eat when you're hungry, stop when you're full.

People really, really think they're hungry because they spend all the time thinking about what they can and can't eat, what they will and won't eat, when they can or can't eat, food, food, food. If you know that any time of day or night, you can eat anything that you want, that takes away the focus on food. To learn this lifestyle, read Weigh Down by Gwen Shamblin. It's kind of cheesy, but does the job.

Anywho... I was thinking the other day, people probably have a much larger appetite (I'm not talking about true hunger here, just the desire to eat) than they need to have because they are so sedentary. God created people to move and work, so if you have to sit at a desk all day, you really don't need to eat much. Especially if you don't exercise.

Now, you can certainly learn to have self control and want very little food and this is good. But, keep in mind that if you use your body like it was designed to, you will require more food and your food requirements might start to match up to your natural appetite.

Don't misunderstand me, it would be better for you to not exercise and be less greedy for food than it would be good for you to work out because you are greedy for more food. In other words, don't work out so you can eat. Work out so you can be strong, healthy, and squash depression. Work out so you can take care of your family. Don't work out with the goal of eating more.

I do think, though, that the relationship between exercise and the "obesity epidemic" is that we are out of balance. Without using our muscles and strengthening our bodies through our daily work or exercise, we are missing a key element to our health and the way our bodies were made. And maybe, your dietary needs will catch up to your natural appetite.

Just a thought.

The Swedes

2011-10-11T15:48:00.001-04:00

My grandfather's family moved to the States from Sweden. They were Petersons, but then decided to make up a name to distinguish themselves since there were so many Petersons in their area. Not knowing everyone who reads this blog, I am not going to reveal my maiden name, but let's just put it this way: No one could EVER spell it growing up, pretty much no one has this last name, and I most definitely dropped it when I got married (sorry mom and dad, nana and grandpa!;))

I am a quarter Swedish and my eyes are light gray. Clay's eyes are dark brown. Clay's dad has greenish eyes and his mom dark brown eyes, so he's got that fair recessive gene. We have just about every combination of hair and eye color, but these two definitely got the same look. Thomas and Lily are our sweet little Swedes.

Lily is probably the most compassionate and generous of all the kids towards Thomas. She is quick to soothe him, play with him, or let him have something special of her own that he grabs for.

What can I say? She's a sweetie. Always has been.

And speaking of sweeties, the latest and greatest from Jules today:

Me: Where are your underpants?

Jules: I don't know.

Me: Are they wet?

Jules: That is POSSible.

Me: That is POSSible?

Jules: Yes, really, really possible.

Lily: Why does Julesie have a naked bottom!?!

She is always appalled at such imprudish behaviour.

And By the Way...

2011-10-10T14:57:00.002-04:00

I'm trying to perfect this new take-along sandwich, but I haven't quite gotten there. Here's the general idea: First, make whatever bread dough you like to make, and let it go through the rise cycle in your bread machine. Then cut it into about 16 pieces.

Flatten it into a circle and spread a dollop of peanut butter and honey, or whatever you want into it. Take a wet finger and moisten around the edge, fold over and press tight with a fork. Cut a couple little slits in the top to let out steam.

Cover with a light towel and let it rise for thirty minutes or an hour. Pop in the oven at 350 degrees for about 15 minutes and voila.

Wrap them in foil if you want to keep them warm and pop in a bag to go on your outing or picnic.

By the way... I turned thirty two yesterday. I called my best friend and sang happy birthday to myself. I had a very nice day regardless of the fact that Peanut and Thomas were very sickwith croup and had to go to the doctor.

Highlights: parrano cheese, prociutto, kalamata olives, goat cheese, rosemary crackers, marinated feta, roasted red peppers, and so on and so forth... german chocolate cake from Whole Foods, fall mums, carrot cupcakes, a new sleep mask, so on and so forth... yum.

Why Do I Long...

2011-10-08T07:07:00.002-04:00

For you to know my God?

I so terribly and deeply want you to know this God of mine. He is truly the lover of our souls.

The world wants to deceive you and tell you that it is more fun to do this or do that or that you can't give up this. It's a lie, my friend. Nothing will ever be more fun and more rewarding than following Christ and having His love surround your life.

Whenever I tell my children not to do something, I explain that the reason God doesn't want us to fight with eachother, or lie, or be greedy, is not because He hates us and wants us to have a terrible life. He tells us what to do because He is kind, merciful and gracious, and wants the BEST for us. He is all wise and knows what we need and what is best for us.

He wants us to have a GREAT life.

This Father of ours gives us direction in His mercy towards us, because He cares for us. He knows that we are weak, and He leads us in the way that will bring blessing. Our God is not a God of rules, He is a God that brings freedom. A God that desires for you to know Him as He knows you.

I wept over a dear friend last night. I so deeply want her to know the Lord. Maybe I'm selfish, I want her to be there in heaven with me, when we'll have all the time in the world to do the fun things we love to do.

Please, my friends, in all of this, do not forget the reality of an eternal separation from God that is eminent for those who do not know Him. May this give you a sense of urgency as you reach out to others and may it flavor your interaction with your neighbors.

Keep praying and desiring for your loved ones to know Him and never give up.

Blanket Baby Bingo

2011-10-06T14:51:00.001-04:00

I'm loving this fall weather and putting the babies out on a blanket in the driveway while I work in the garage. They can't go in the grass because we reseeded, but they seem to like the driveway just as well.

Thomas continues to hone his skill of overlapping so that he will be sure to win when he goes on America's Got Talent. That boy just loves loves loves overlapping things. The therapists say it is because he seeks sensory input and visual stimulation. Seems harmless enough and oh-so-cute.

We've been dog-sitting Booger a couple days a week and she likes to get cozy on the blanket with the boys.

It seems everyone ends up there at some point. Fall, we love you. Please don't turn to winter. Thank you.

World Peace

2011-10-05T13:15:00.001-04:00

This is just one of those moments I HAD to capture. This must be what utopia is supposed to be. Of course, five minutes later, the world came crashing down. But, for a minute, just one moment, we had World Peace.

At Least She's Honest

2011-10-04T14:05:00.001-04:00

The thing about Julesie, is that what you see is what you get.

She can be very pleasant and obviously, even as a little one, has a love for the Lord and a love of prayer. She can be very very fun and very very naughty. She is my only child so far that doesn't seem to have a good sense about the subtleties of what is good and what is not.

Last night, I thought the kids might want to share about their time at co-op over supper with daddy. So, I asked the seemingly safe question:

"What was your favorite part of today, children?"

Julesie piped up right away in all earnestness, "Saying no."

Truly, she was not being sassy. She really seemed like she had enjoyed saying no.

Which led to the next question: "Who did you say no to?"

"My teacher."

Happy as a clam and happy to share that information with us, just like she was reporting that she'd cleaned up the crayons or fed the class goldfish.

It seems her teacher was telling her to keep the markers closed when she wasn't using them. Apparently Juliana had better ideas.

Well, we've got quite a road ahead of us!

I love that girl.

This Reckless Abandon

2011-10-03T14:53:00.001-04:00

Maybe you don't understand this reckless abandon we have; this trust and desire we have.

We have been and are being saved from much.

If you only knew... but you do.

When you look at your own wretchedness, your messups, your hangups, you get it.

This mighty, mighty God who loves us so dearly, well, I can think of no one better to trust in, to leave my life with. Oh, how He cares for us.

Everyone's story is special.

Clay and I have been saved, delivered, are being daily restored and forgiven and renewed again. We have been and are the greatest of sinners, and yet by the Holy Spirit's power, we have our eyes opened, over and over. Sometimes a song or something else will remind me of the past, heartache and longing. I have to remember where I was and what the Lord has done for me. Little me.

Our lives are a special miracle.

The marriage that shouldn't be.

The womb that shouldn't have born so many children.

The continuing life, broken and mended, broken, mended and mended again.

Praise be to God our Father.

Who else's hands would you lay your life in? This very short and temporal life.

Last Day: Everyone Vote

2011-10-03T09:00:00.000-04:00

Today is the last day to vote for Woody Baby Farm to be in the top 25 Large Family Blogs!

Click on the image above to vote!!!

A (a-a-a-ahhhh-choo!) nice Fall Picnic?

2011-10-02T15:37:00.000-04:00

This morning, before church, I decided to throw together a picnic and surprise the kids with lunch downtown at one of our favorite spots (where we got married)... Reedy River Falls Park.

We actually ran into my parents outside of Starbucks, and fortunately for us, they left their quiet little picnic to join our loud one. It was a beautiful day today. Maybe a little too beautiful.

I took some Allegra this morning, but the park almost killed me. Nose a faucet, eyes swelling up, sinuses throbbing. And the constant violent sneezes. I really tried to have fun. The guy in Starbucks asked me if I was okay. I told him, "I think I'm going to die."

He didn't think that would be very good for business.

I sometimes have this lovely idea in my mind of how plans are going to go. In our case, you kind of have to do things that MOST of the people will enjoy. Gentle and Peanut had a good time for a little while... Thomas decided to explore most of the park on his own two feet, but when he realized there was water he lost it.

He's crazy about water and he really really wanted to sit in it. And it was just a little to cold for that!

It was down hill from there for him.

And, you know Peanut, he was very longsuffering and patient for his nap.

But, the big kids loved it and could've stayed all afternoon. There's my dad down there with his snazzy iphone with the kiddos. Hi Poppi!

Well, here's to being adventurous and spontaneous.

Now, if we could just get rid of the allergies...

Gentle's Journey: Developmental Peds

2011-09-30T14:26:00.001-04:00

Thomas has now been walking for a few weeks and he is much happier. He seems to be going through a great burst in development. He has at least one word- he whispers "baby" and seems to be mimicking things like "up" and "mmmmm" for more. He is vocalizing a lot more, making sounds like mamamama, babababa, lalalala. He can't mimick things like waving bye bye or other gestures yet. He is very interested in practicing walking stairs, though!

He played for the first time at the playground today. Normally, he would just want to be held or in the stroller, but now that he can walk, he was all over the place and it was so fun to watch him in action (and chase after him). We had to lose the shirt when he poured an entire cup of ice water on himself. He was so happy and tired by the time we went back home.

We got Thomas' assessment from Developmental Pediatrics yesterday. Right now, they are putting him on average at a nine month old level, which I think is about right. He will be two on October 16th and has really made progress. They don't make an official diagnoses of mental retardation until he turns six years old, but we shouldn't have a problem getting Medicaid (TEFRA) for him to continue his therapies after he turns three.

Please pray for that process to go smoothly, as I am about to turn in our paperwork. Health insurance will not cover things like speech therapy for disabled children, which is something we will continue to need.

We love our Gentle and are proud of his great strides and thankful to the Lord for him.

I always said I wanted my babies to stay babies. and Gentle is still the ultimate baby!

What's Not to Love

2011-09-28T17:43:00.003-04:00

About afternoon gummy worms and weaving?